ABODE - March 2012

QATAR

Sneak Peak

AlGassar

Karen Millen

Resort Residences

Fashion Special

The New Address Of Luxury

The Faces Of Motherhood

Free y a d s ’ r e Motahrd inside c

77 page

Don’t Have a Gym? Don’t Worry Get In Shape In Only 20 Minutes Workout Details Inside

Enticing

Super-Mom!

Desserts

Recipes from Oryx Rotana’s Pastry Chef To Prepare This Mother’s Day

An An Inspirational Inspirational Interview Interview With With

ORYX GTL’s Katia Abboud

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Abode March.indd Magazine 19th ABODE 4 Jan.indd 1

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Villaggio Mall +974 4413 4503, Landmark Mall +974 4486 7752, www.karenmillen.com

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Only lines that flow with natural harmony can deliver performance with grace.

Introducing the all-new Infiniti FX, available in 3.5 litre V6 and 5 litre V8 engines. Experience power and style in the ultimate crossover like never before.

Since now, there is Infiniti.

Discover more at Infiniti-me.com Infiniti FX35/FX50S: 303 horsepower 3.5-litre V6 with 36.2 kg-m of torque engine or 390 horsepower 5.0-litre V8 with 50.98 kg-m of torque VVEL engine. Specifications may vary from product shown. Please consult your local dealer for complete accuracy.

Now Launched New Infiniti Showroom

+974 44283333

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ABODE

team

QATAR

Surprise mom with homemade cards

Sneak Peak

Al Gassar Resort Residences The new address of luxury

and gift ideas – Page 80

Karen Millen

Fashion Special

The faces of Motherhood

Surprise Mom with gift ideas

Don’t have a Gym?

Supermom!

Don’t worry.

Learn a quick and easy workout from

6 Tantalizing

desserts

recipes from Oryx Rotana’s Pastry Chef to prepare this mother’s day.

A Candid Interview With

MARCH 2012 QR 12

Oryx GTL’s Katia Abboudt Abboud On the cover: Katia Abboud; Photography Jorell Legaspi; Hair & Make-Up Darin Fares @ “LA” Salon Spa Chakra Alfardan; Location Diplomatic Club; Wardrobes & Accessories courtesy of BCBG and Karen Millen

Chairman Editor-in-Chief Executive Editorial Director Associate Editor Editorial Coordinator Graphic Designer Finalizer/ Production Manager Photographer Advertising Manager Communications Manager Business Development Consultant Marketing Coordinator Distribution Contributors

Owner & Licensee

Printers

Ahmed Hassan Bilal Nasser Ahmed Hassan Bilal Moona Masri-Whitice Nitya Shukla Marlynne Mallari Paola Santin Srimani Welagedara Jessie Palanca Deliah Furcoi Jorge Granda Kristina Helg Jeniffer Daclan – Ruiz Lanie Fillo-Pana Gloria Duran – Renderos Lauren Penny Laura Prior Christina Maria Paschyn Anna Jacoby Willemina Mansell – van Eeghen Asma Ashimi Ashlee Starratt Hillary Kozma Alex Corey Danielle Maynard – Duttenhofer Timothy Corrigan Alan Martinez Print Communications An Associate of Ahmed Hassan Bilal Group of Companies.

Gulf Publishing & Printing Co.

ENQUIRIES ON THE ABOVE SECTIONS PLEASE CONTACT: TEL: +974 4443-2224 FAX: +974 4443-2225 ADVERTISING INFORMATION Qatar: +974 4443-2224

ABODE Retraction: ABODE magazine regrets the mistaken reporting in the article on ROTA’s Gala Dinner Success. The ROTA Charity Auction, raised 13 Million USD to support ROTA’s Qatari and international education and community programs.

LEGAL NOTICE ABODE is owned and published monthly by Print Communications, P.O. Box 7848, Doha, Qatar. An Associate of Ahmed Hassan Bilal Group of Companies.

This publication follows Canadian Press Style and is written in Canadian English.

No part of this publication may be reproduced or copied without the written permission of the publisher under the copyright laws of the State of Qatar. All rights reserved. No responsibility taken for unintentional errors or unsolicited material.

Use of trademark is strictly prohibited.

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HOME 34 interiors

At Work With Forum Design: Commercial Design In Action

46 decor Design Trends

PEOPLE 20

22 24 30

Behind Every Woman is Another Great Woman Beauty And Brains Joie de Vivre Taking Over The City With A Smile

with Timothy Corrigan

48 ACCESSORIZE

Simple Updates The Secret Haven

34

120

64 LIFESTYLE 08 Aiming For Work/Life Balance 1 110 Women In Workplace 112 Mamma Mia! 114 Calcium An Element Of Life 118 Exercising Out Of The Box 120 Iceland: A Heart-Warming

86 FOOD&

ENTERTAINMENT

58 Amazing Avocados 60 A Time For Just Desserts 68 A Mother’s Day Picnic Celebration 74 Surprise Your Wife on Mother’s Day !

76 Get the Kids to Surprise & Pamper Mom!

FASHION 84 86

98 102 104

Spring On Your Step Fashion Feature: The Many Faces of Motherhood Looking Good At Any Age Look Younger in Just 2 Hours Beauty Secrets

Destination

123 CD Reviews 124 Reader’s Corner 1 26 It’s Loud, It’s Smoky, It’s Fast!

129 Tech Support 130 ABODE Directory 132 Horoscopes march 2012 ABODE 11

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EDitOr’s

letter

IN THIS ISSUE...

bEHINd THE ScENES

This month is a very special month for our readers as many countries around the world will be celebrating both International Women’s Day on March 8 and Mother’s Day on March 21. In order to highlight both of these great events we have prepared a very special edition honouring the contribution of women to family, society and the corporate world. Our fashion shoot is a beautiful portrayal of the many faces of motherhood. We chose real mothers and their children of all ages. Each one of these ladies share advice on what they consider to be one of the toughest yet most rewarding jobs in the world.

ABODE also had the privilege of interviewing two professional women who are also mothers. These ladies are working hard to make a differences in their fields and at home with their children. Dr Kholode Al-Obaidli, director of Qatar Airways Overseas Student Scholarship Programme, shares with us her lessons for corporate advancement and success and her 14 principles of Abaya Management. Mrs Katia Abboud, head of Public Relations of Oryx GTL, gives us a genuine glimpse at what it take to juggle profession and home.

We also had the pleasure of speaking to His Excellency, Jean-Christophe Peaucelle, the Ambassador of France to Qatar, on his zest for life and love for his country. Additionally, we learned from the new InterContinental Doha The City’s general manager, David Todd how his new endeavour in West Bay is going to open a new chapter in the business hospitality sector. For your delight, we have selected six enticing dessert recipes from the Oryx Rotana hotel’s executive pastry chef Somboon, that you can prepare for your family. We also have found gift ideas that kids can make at home for mom to make her feel special. As an added bonus the ABODE staff has included two mother’s day cards. All you need to do is cut them out and personalize them.

Babysitting Emerg

ency....!!!!

Fillers... :)

Our destination feature is Iceland, a far away and undiscovered country beckoning all those who dare to travel to the top of the world and seek adventure, beautiful scenery and majestic mountain views and of course, deliciously tempting seafood. Iceland is one of the world’s best kept secrets.

If you have never thought about going, our coverage might entice you to go.

We hope you enjoy these fun and creative ways to celebrate your mother - the woman who loved you first.

Is it up or down?

NASSER AHMED HASSAN BILAL EDITOR IN CHIEF

OUr FavOrITE PIckS V IC VI ICtO t rIA I ’s IA ’ sECr sEC Et

AdId IdA Id dA s E stéE Esté stéE L AudEr E Er suM uMp uM Mptu tuOus u ExtrEME E ME MA EME M A sCA C A rA CA rA

OMEGA

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I Love What I Do

taking over The City with a smile

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Doha at a glance

Vera Wang present their wedding dress collection at iWED 2011

Premier Wedding Exhibition and Fashion Show in April

New Infiniti Showroom debuts with pomp Saleh Al Hamad Al Mana Co, the exclusive distributor of Nissan, Infiniti & Renault in Qatar inaugurated the New Infiniti showroom in Qatar. The showroom was inaugurated by Mr Hisham Al Mana, Chairman and Mr Kamal Al Mana, Executive Director of Saleh Al Hamad Al Mana Co., alongside Mr Gilles Normand, Corporate Vice President, Africa, Middle East and India (AMI). The new showroom is built on the Infiniti Retail Environment Design Initiative (IREDI) platform, Infiniti’s unified global standard. The Infiniti models were driven down alongside beautiful models who walked the runway.

Glamorous bridal fashions and new innovations in wedding services and products will be displayed at the highly-regarded 5th edition of the Qatar International Wedding Exhibition and Fashion Show (iWED) from 4-7 April 2012, Qatar Expo has announced. The highly-anticipated iWED 2012, aimed at brides, grooms-to-be and their families, is the premier wedding show of the region with more than 100 international and regional wedding specialists anticipated to exhibit, covering all requirements for the perfect wedding; from flowers and cakes, to haute couture wedding fashion and finding the ultimate venue,” said Mr Saliba, COO of Qatar Expo.

Home Centre redefines style with new look

Qatar Celebrates first sports day in February Katara recently announced that over 300,000 visitors enjoyed National Sports Day at their premises.

The Al Asmakh branch of Home Centre now sports a snazzy contemporary look and feel after having undergone a huge makeover. As one of the leading homes and interiors retailers, Home Centre’s new stylish image comes in accordance with company plans to inject a more modern, chic and polished feel to the brand. The store’s sleek new concept was developed by leading American architect and design firm Callison, who also planned and designed Porto Arabia at The Pearl Qatar. The revamped look provides customers with a collection of warm and inviting spaces and zones that have been created to reflect the rebrand’s new tagline ‘Find your Home in Ours.’

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Toujouri opens store at The Pearl-Qatar The Qatar-based international fashion brand Toujouri opened its flagship store at The Pearl-Qatar on January 28, 2012. The opening was an exclusive affair that saw international media hype in Qatar. As is well known, brand Toujouri combines traditional techniques with modern silhouettes. Having taken the fashion world by storm, the line is already carried by Harrods department store in London. “It has been a labour of love to bring to life Toujouri’s designs and business aspirations with the launch of our flagship store. Acclaimed architect Peter Marino has created a store that not only represents our design aesthetic but also proudly reflects elements of the Qatari landscape,” said Toujouri Designer and Creative Director Lama El Moatessem.

Jotun Paints participates in ‘Qatar Projects 2012’

Kate Moss goes MANGO! As one of Spain’s best known international fashion brands, MANGO recently caused many hearts to go aflutter, unveiling that Kate Moss will be the star of its new Spring/Summer 2012 campaign at their flagship London store.

The firm has chosen the British model for its campaign image because she is a reference in the fashion world and embodies the type of urban, independent and bold woman MANGO wants to dress. Moss posed with the brand’s new designs at a house in London, in front of the lens of the renowned photographer Terry Richardson.

DJWE 2012 puts up a dazzling show The 9th Doha Jewellery & Watches Exhibition 2012 was inaugurated by the Prime Minister and

Jotun Paints recently participated in ‘Qatar Projects 2012,’ held from February 5 to February 8, 2012 at the Grand Hyatt Hotel in Doha, Qatar. This strategic move from Jotun comes as a measure to consolidate its leading position in the Middle East, where it offers worldclass, top quality paints and coatings, as well as reinforce its market presence in Qatar’s QR 300 million paint segment, which is seeing rapid growth. To date, Jotun has reported a total of over QR 150 million worth of projects that are completed, ongoing or are currently in the pipeline.

Hotel Missoni Doha to open doors in 2015 Qatar’s blooming hospitality industry received a boost when The Rezidor Hotel Group and Al Jassim Group announced the coming of the Hotel Missoni Doha, a unique lifestyle hotel.

The luxurious property will be exclusively designed by the renowned by Rosita Missoni and will feature approximately 200 rooms and 70 serviced apartments. At the announcement, Sheikh Khalid Bin Jassim Al Thani, CEO of Al Jassim Group said, “Hotel Missoni Doha will add significant value to the existing urban aspect and contribute to the commitment and vision of Qatar by greatly supporting the transformation of Doha into one of the world’s leading business, sport and cultural cities.” According to Kurt Ritter, President and CEO of Rezidor, the Hotel Missoni flagship will be a perfect addition to Doha’s rising market.

Minister of Foreign Affairs HE Sheikh Hamad bin Jassim bin Jabor al Thani at the Doha Exhibition Center recently. Present at the venue were Qatar Tourism Authority (QTA) officials and the representatives of local jewellery houses were present on the occasion.

This year’s show earned much praise and laurels from the audience. Over 300 exhibitors representing the top international brands in the luxury industry from Bahrain, Belgium, Austria,Germany, Greece, France Hong Kong, Italy, Japan, Lebanon, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Spain, Switzerland, the UAE and the UK participated in the even-day event.

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Wyndham praises employee’s charity initiative Wyndham Grand Regency announced their support and praises for their Restaurant supervisor Nimala Nathan, who recently organized a charitable initiative within the Food and Beverage department in the hotel. Besides agreeing to dedicate one day of their vacation for charity, Nimala and his team also collected QR 7,343, which was donated to Qatar Red Crescent. Ayman Lotfy, General Manager of the hotel, said: “I am so proud of Nimala and his act of kindness to give back to the community.

This campaign is a part of the ‘Count On Me’ program and the hotel CSR strategy to continue the initiatives of social responsibility within the framework of the local community.”

Qatar Masters stars Karlsson, Daly and Jimenez The recently concluded 15th Commercial bank Qatar Masters directed the golfing spotlight on the Middle East’s famed ‘Desert Swing.’ The line-up presented

by Dolphin Energy was strengthened with the addition of 2010 champion Robert Karlsson, former Major winner John Daly and the ever popular Miguel Angel Jimenez. The $2.5 million tournament boasted a line-up brimming with talent and the addition of two big hitters in the shape of Karlsson and Daly, plus the craft and guile of Jimenez delighted golfing enthusiasts from Qatar.

Hala Al Turk attends Catwalk Talent event at Stenden An audience of 536 international guests including Arab talent celebrity Hala Al Turk attended the Catwalk Talents event, a charity fashion and talent show organized by students of Stenden University. As the guest of honour, Hala gave a top notch performance during the show. The future catwalk talents presented fashion for kids by the Qatari designers M’s Collection and Albatoola as well as the Bahraini designer Dar Noqoosh. The evening included 14 talent performances of various arts by children.

The Pearl-Qatar Welcomes Poland’s First Lady Poland’s First Lady Anna Komorowska was recently hosted

by The Pearl-Qatar on January 29th, 2012. During her visit, Mrs Komorowska was briefed about the development and its ongoing contribution to Qatar and was escorted along the boardwalk, home to the largest marina in the region and the world’s most exclusive international brands and restaurants.

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Manal Al Dowayan exhibits exclusive artworks at Katara Gallery ROTA organises Wheels ‘n’ Heels Family Fun Day In a bid to promote a healthy lifestyle, Reach Out To Asia (ROTA) hosted its Wheels ‘n’ Heels Family Fun Day at the Museum of Islamic Art park on 10th February, under the auspices of ROTA Chairperson, H.E Sheikha Al Mayassa bint Hamad Al Thani. Now in its fifth year, the undertaking hosted a number of special events to promote ROTA’s collaboration with the Qatar Japan Committee 2012. Forty Japanese students gave traditional dance and calligraphy performances to commemorate 40 years of cordial relations between the two countries.

Qatar Foundation celebrates sport spirit To mark the Qatar’s first sports day, Qatar Foundation for Education, Science and Community Development (QF) hosted fun-filled activities to mark the holiday, and it was estimated that an amazing one million calories were burned as participants got into the sporting spirit. Seen at the event were (left) Ali Al Muftah, executive director of support services at QF and Basil Khairalla.

Acclaimed Saudi artist, Manal Al Dowayan work reflecting the Saudi woman’s identity will be on display until March 9 at Katara Gallery.

The exhibition will showcase artworks including photographs, mixed media and large scale installations.

Azkals and Al Ahli Football Club put up a great game!

The popular AZKALS (Philippine Football Team) paid a courtesy visit to the Philippine Embassy last February 13 to play two matches against the competitive Al Ahli football club. In this light the organizer Pinoy Futbol Qatar (PFQ) president Denrei Catalan initiated a friendly match between the teams. Al Ahli Club manager Hussein Al Amri agreed to donate football spike shoes and game equipment to talented young boys who play football barefoot from small town in the Philippines.

Stenden University organizes its 1st Oscar Awards Night at Regency Hall The special red carpet occasion saw more than 150 attendees from Stenden University Qatar and Qatar National Cancer Society, as well as other sponsors. All joined together to raise money and awareness for the fight against cancer, with all proceeds going towards the Qatar National Cancer Society.

Qatar’s First National Sports Day

Celebrated on February 14th, 2012, at various locations in and around locations in Doha.

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Coming soon! Doha Challenger Cup 2012 The biggest gymnastic competition of the year will be yet another treat for sports enthusiasts to look forward to in March. Organised by the Qatar Gymnastic Federation, the Doha Challenger Cup 2012 is a series of six artistic gymnastic meetings around the world held annually with Qatar taking the centre stage now.

It’s Open! InterContinental Doha The City The smashing new luxury accommodation features 302 rooms and 58 suites to Qatar’s growing hospitality sector. In addition the 176 luxurious Residence Suites will include a range of one to four bedroom apartments.

The new property is seen as a destination of choice and will host a range of luxury accommodation and facilities, including InterContinental Residence Suites, the country’s highest dining experience and an inhouse chocolatier.

Calvin Harris to rock Doha March will be a special time for Qatar when famous singersongwriter and record producer Calvin Harris sets foot in Qatar. The Scottish DJ will be performing live at the InterContinental Beachside.

Morover, to make the event even more spectacular audience can expect super performances from Paul Mendez, Jared McCulloch and Steve KZ.

Alfardan hosts BMW Golf Cup Qatar National Final Amateur golfers from Qatar got the chance to compete in the national round of the world’s largest amateur tournament series for the aim of securing their place in the World Final of the BMW Golf Cup International. The three winners from Qatar; David Borrows, Nasser Ali Al-Kaabi and Yanling Wang will be flown to the BMW Golf Cup International Final where they will tee off against more than 100 other golfers representing over 30 countries at the Sentosa Golf Club in Sinagpore starting 5th March 2012.

Sailing arabia - the tour 2012 in doha Oman Sail and the Pearl Qatar invited guests to witness the first leg in the tour of Sailing Arabia. This event took place at Porto Arabia Marina in The Pearl. Guests enjoyed a buffet lunch at Liza restaurant. The tour had many sailboat participants.

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Bilal Pearl Suites debuts at The Pearl-Qatar Ahmed Hassan Bilal Trading and Contracting Company proudly unveiled the Bilal Pearl Suites Project on the Pearl-Qatar. Present at the venue were Mr Ahmad Hassan Bilal (Chairman AHB group), Mr Nasser Ahmed Hassan Bilal (Director, Operations & Finance, AHB) and Mr Khalid Hassan Bilal (Director, Public Relations). More than 300 guests graced exclusive event including dignitaries and ambassadors to Qatar.

Among the dignitaries present were United Development Corporation (UDC) chairman Hussein Ibrahim Alfardan, Majid Sami, the founder and president of INI, Hannover, Germany and VIPs and senior managers from the fields of banking and hospitality. ABODE brings you highlights of the evening.

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. . . n a m o W

Behind Every Great

By Laura Prior

It’s realistic to say that even in 2012, the ‘glass ceiling’ effect still exists in a vast majority of workplaces in Qatar and throughout the world. However, today and every day, educated and determined local women are working unremittingly in support of each other to shatter that effect – and the cracks are starting to show.

This month ABODE features one of the country’s leading ladies in the field of female empowerment and development, Dr Kholode Al-Obaidli.

D

r Kholode is a role model for Qatari women, having reached great heights in both her education and career, from gaining her PhD to being the first female Qatari to be acknowledged by RAND as a summer intern in their headquarters in Santa Monica, California, USA. Now a published writer on public policy in education, she has also recently taken her ground-breaking ‘Abaya vs. Thobe Management’ theory out into workshops, connecting with the women of our communities. ABODE sat down with the ardent, articulate lady at her day job desk as director of Qatar Airways Overseas Student Scholarship Programme, where she enthused about her mission to help set the stage for Qatari women of the future.

ABODE: Who inspires you?

KAO: My father. Luckily, he encouraged us to break the mould and be strong, independent women. I used to watch my sisters growing up, I learned a lot from them. I am also inspired by Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser and Her Highness Sheikha Al Mayassa bint Hamad Al Thani in particular, too.

They are true, shining examples of doing, not just saying and have done so much by way of opening doors in the field of

female rights and empowerment in our society. But, generally speaking, any woman can inspire me – whether local or expat - as we all have such amazing qualities and experiences to share.

ABODE: You have written a lot of material and been published on the topic of Qatar’s public policy on education, which is quite interesting.

Can you tell us more about it?

KAO: In many people’s opinion, there needs to be new systems and possibly new legislation that addresses public policy of timely interest. For example, equity and parity in women’s representation in public and private management/executive positions at the higher levels. It seems to me that now this is becoming somewhat of a focus in our nation in relation to QNV2030 and National Development Strategy 2011-2016. When looking closely at Education for a New Era, it seems we also need to address the question: what is public policy?

Perhaps too simply defined, a policy asks a straightforward question, ‘what needs to be done?’ ie what decisions need to be made about policy imperatives and where will these policies fit into overall government approaches. Having answered the question “what needs to be

done?” the next question concerned with procedures or implementation and asks ‘how should it be done?’Essentially my book Educational Reform in Qatar, Women ESL Teachers’ Perceptions about Roles and Professional Development Needs tries to raise these issues with respect to educational policy in general and English language development in particular.

ABODE: How do you characterize/ define yourself as a woman in Qatar?

KAO: First I am a mother and wife, and I am also an independent career woman. I have always been a strong advocate of women’s issues. In particular, women constitute 50 per cent of our Qatari population. In the labour force they represent significantly less than this. Statistics show that in 2009 only 3 per cent of economically active Qatari women had leadership posts. The Qatar National Vision states that there should be a 30 per cent increase in the number of Qatari women in directors’ roles – as decision makers - by 2016. I would love to see that figure achieved, for starters.

ABODE: You came up with the concept of: “Abaya Management vs. Thobe Management.” Tell us about it.

KAO: Abaya management is a practical

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.

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is a female

use of the experiential on-the-job observations. Simply put, it is the effective use of female power to manoeuvre in a Thobe (Qatari male) -dominated working environment to achieve a set of goals and objectives that you deem important for at least a) to do your job as effectively as you can and b) to position yourself for promotional career opportunities wherever they may exist either inside or outside your organization. abOdE: How did you come up with the theory and how was it received?

kaO: When I worked at the Qatar Olympic Committee, I was the only abaya amongst a committee of thobes. This was very interesting to me and the dynamics of this situation, coupled with my friendships and shared life experiences with other women led me to developing my experiences into practical thoughts. This then resulted in my 14 rules of abaya management. My

rules were received well by the workshop participants, as well as those who emailed me and called me. I am thankful though, that the majority of reactions to my work, from both men and women, have found my Abaya management to be humorous, positive and for some individuals very effective and applicable. abOdE: Has it changed your life? kaO: Not really, but actually it has helped me validate and build upon my empirical observations in the workplace. To a great degree, the 14 rules are essentially universal. abOdE: What is your advice for young women out there in the professional world today?

kaO: The responsibility of my generation is to pave the way for the next generation.

We should be equipping ourselves now to be ready so that young women, Qatari

women especially, can really take the lead in the workplace. There are many and there will continue to be many opportunities out there for all women who want to succeed. Women should be prepared. Use your intellect and try to be aware of the political sensitivities of your work environment and how you fit into this. Additionally, I would say that professional women need to be confident and not necessarily accept ‘no’ for an answer. Because to a great degree, no is not a denial, it is simply a detour. abOdE: Where do you see your role in the future? kaO: I would like to continue my career path by moving up in the executive world.

I enjoy assuming more responsibility and expanding my portfolio of executive performance and experience.

Honestly, I enjoy both the public and the private sector of management. •

Dr kHOlODE Al OBAiDli’s 14 rulEs Of ABAyA mAnAgEmEnt 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

10.

11.

12.

13.

14.

Know and understand your work environment Establish your presence Always remember names Be innovative and show no fear when doing so Use your feminine side and humour to establish your authenticity When a void of leadership exists, fill it When attending presentations, sit front row and centre Always congratulate presenters after their presentations Develop a power walk and a power posture while seated at meetings Consciously use subconscious ideas Never give up See no barriers or obstacles, just challenges Don’t ask permission to do your job, rather ask for forgiveness but only when needed Use the crucibles for your advantage

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Beauty and Brains

By Nitya Shukla

International Women’s Day will be celebrated on March 8 all around the world and very much so here in Qatar. So it made sense that we found a woman to speak to us who embodies the phrase ‘beauty and brains’ and is a living example of the success that a woman can achieve not just in her career but also as a loving mom and a dedicated wife. Oryx GTL’s Katia Abboud had all answers to all our questions.

A

s the Head of PR at ORYX GTL, Katia has been one of the few women who have achieved much in the oil and gas field, an arena that has traditionally been dominated by men. And so it was natural that we begin our interview on this note. However, Katia is ready to draw a more updated picture for us. “It is true that the oil and gas industry has been largely dominated by men in its early stages; however, this has started to change as more women joined the industry and contributed to the success of this industry around the world.”

For her the challenge to prove herself in a dynamic field was worth it, since she wanted to be among the first few in Qatar to make a difference in this domain and provide support to others too. “It (oil and gas) is one the main driving forces

for prosperous economies. The more I learned about this industry in Qatar, the more I was fascinated and inspired by its various achievements.” Her heritage as a Lebanese-Canadian adds to her experience as a global citizen and leaves less concern about the apparent disadvantage of being a woman. The oil and gas sector, for her, should hardly be considered an obstacle for a woman.

Katia attributes attitude and aptitude as the only deciding factors. “It is a globally recognized fact that the more diverse a team - the more creative, productive and effective. In fact there is a correlation between adding women to senior level management and profitability.

Women and men have a different way of looking at challenges and opportunities and when we listen to each other the outcome is powerful,” she says.

Her decision to join Oryx GTL was propelled by her dream to be an effective social citizen, conducting awareness campaigns, providing support to people with special needs, and conducting environmental projects. “I choose ORYX GTL because of the efforts that it has put in place to contribute effectively to a cleaner and healthier planet and because of its values that concentrate on people, integrity and sustainable development.”

As the public relations head, her role requires her to plan, conduct, monitor and review all public relations, advertising, events, sponsorship, CSR, and media activities. All of which is probably the most succinct version of her workload.

But she laughs off the stress factor we hint at, saying instead “Public relations is a very interesting and diverse domain.”

The chance to work in the Corporate

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Social Responsibility section of PR was one of the main driving forces that motivated her to join the business.

“I have always wanted to effectively contribute to society, especially to those in need and I found a great support through the Qatari oil and gas sector that dedicates a lot of effort to help those in need, in line with the Qatar National Vision 2030- Human Development; Social Development; Economic Development and Environmental Development,” she says. “At my workplace, we put people first in all what we do and this is one of the values that I highly admire.

Reaching out to each other gives us a sense of joy that is indescribable.”

Her career graph has undoubtedly made an impact on her life as a progressive career woman and she describes herself a work in progress. “I love my career as it utilizes my multitasking skills, keeps me engaged in new projects, challenges me to keep on innovating and being creative and above all, develops my personality as part of continuous improvement to reach self-actualization.”

But is it possible to be equally successful when it comes to her other roles, especially as a mother of two children and a wife? Don’t the demands of a young family take a toll? Katia says

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that women are natural born multitaskers. “I have the advantage of having a great support at work from the management and at home from my husband Jack who is in the same line of business and understands the challenges we need to face to succeed. He is a great partner at home where he provides support in bringing up our kids.”

We were amazed to find that this talented woman has found the solution to beat the cliché of ‘having one’s cake and eating it too.’ In the new millennia, career and home are hardly adversaries.

“I believe that we can try our best to be the best in both worlds,” says Katia. “At work, I am completely absorbed into my daily tasks and that is easy because the kids are at school during my work hours. At home, it is a different job or, let’s say, jobs. My kids enjoy asking about my work and I do involve them in the events that I am preparing. I also share with them some of the challenges and celebrations that I had at work. It is kind of teaching them lessons from life, involving them and inspiring them.”

Reflecting on her experience, she believes that Qatari women are self-motivated and well-educated; and are equipped to handle the jobs that they aspire to.

Moreover, they have great support from the government especially through the wise leadership of His Highness Sheikh Hamad Bin Khalifa Al-Thani, the Emir of Qatar and Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser.

The latter being a great inspiration. “I am highly inspired by Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser. She is a great leader and a role model not only to all Qatari women but also to women around the world.

She has been actively engaged in education and social reform in Qatar for many years and has played a major role in spearheading

various national and international development projects.”

However, a great career often has a path paved with thorns. When asked to point out the main challenges that the woman of today faces, Katia says “One of the greatest challenges to women is the lack of role models and a female peer group to provide inspiration and support. We need more champions for women – both male and female, to identify strong professional women with real leadership potential and to mentor them to the next levels.”

The silver lining can come in her suggestion that leaders need to understand how their teams operate and that includes women. Any ambitious competitive company needs the most talented team. If they aren’t actively pursuing women in their recruiting strategies – they are missing out in at least half of the opportunities to reach the top in their sectors.

When told that she herself is an inspiration to many women here, Katia had words of wisdom and humility.

“I believe that women can contribute tremendously to this business since diversity promotes efficiency; and I hope that my career success will motivate more women to join the industry and contribute to its success,” she says on a concluding note. •

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Mr Jean-Christophe Peaucelle, Ambassador of France to Qatar

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By Laura Prior Photography jessie palanca

Joie de vivre or “the joy of life” is a simple yet compelling statement and one embodied by H.E. Jean-Christophe Peaucelle, the Ambassador of France to Qatar. Just four months into his tenure, his zest for life coupled with a lust for duty brings an enviable enthusiasm to the role. ABODE was thrilled to sit down with H.E to hear about his rich past, the passion he brings to his latest role and his fervour for the future.

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ere months in office as Ambassador of France to Qatar, yes, but nearly 25 years of experience in foreign policy in the Region, make H.E. Peaucelle perfectly placed to balance the long-standing relationship between his homeland and Qatar. United since Qatar gained independence in 1971, the unique partnership between the two countries gives H.E. endless inspiration on which to build. With a sophisticated understanding of the responsibility, commitment and social connections required, we discover the man behind the title.

ABODE: Please tell us about yourself. What you were like when you were growing up?

JCMP: I am from Paris. It is of course a vibrant city rich in arts, culture and architecture. I grew up there but also travelled a lot with my parents, which was great. I was a happy child. I enjoyed school and my studies. I think this set me in good stead for my career.

ABODE: It’s amazing that you knew you wanted to be a diplomat from such any early age. Is it everything you dreamed of?

JCMP: Actually, it is not far off. I knew I wanted to travel and serve my country and I am doing just that.

It is so rewarding – that feeling of fulfilling my duty to my country. Again it proves that dreams do come true.

ABODE: What are your daily duties like as Ambassador?

JCMP: There is no typical day. That’s part of what I love about my job. Every day is different but for example, after I have woken and had breakfast with my family, I arrive at my office and take an hour alone to read the news, emails and respond to any telegrams from my colleagues in Paris. Then I’ll have a series of meetings – each different, each day. I’ll of course, sign some documents in the afternoon and in the evenings will usually head out to a dinner commitment or event. I always try to read before bed, if there is time.

ABODE: How do you see France playing a role in Qatar’s development and what are you most excited about in this vein?

JCMP: There are many exciting opportunities in multiple fields but the main areas you could say are in business, culture, sports and education.

For example we want to offer more small to medium business enterprise opportunities as well as build on our strong corporate presence. We thrive on cultural exchange between our societies such as in art and music, and we are also excited to develop the French language in schools here in Qatar.

ABODE: France has a strong relationship with Qatar – how do you maintain and build on this?

JCMP: Indeed, we have excellent relations and have been working closely since the beginning when Qatar gained independence in 1971. We have privileged political, military, economic

and cultural ties. We are very proud of this relationship and part of my job is to continually nurture and build on that. This is maintained through close communication, common agreement and working together as a team.

ABODE: What interests you outside of work? How do you relax?

JCMP: I love photography and although we now live in the digital age, I still find it very comforting when I hear the click of an old camera. I love to see the photos developed too. There is still something special about that to me. My last photo outing saw me wandering around West Bay taking snaps of the reflections of buildings in other buildings.

ABODE: What is your motto in life?

JCMP: Definitely I would say, always chase your dreams. I told my mother when I was eight that I wanted to be a diplomat and I never lost sight of that. I studied and studied and made it happen.

Even though there may be obstacles in the way, we must face and overcome them and we will realize our dreams.

ABODE: Words of wisdom?

JCMP: Be patient and respectful of other people’s opinions. This doesn’t mean you can’t have your own opinion.

Be curious and as I always say to my children, be careful not to close yourself on yourself. In other words, always keep your heart and mind open to learning and experiencing new things. •

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people

The Art of Conducting

BY CHRISTINA RISTINA MARIA RIA PASCHYN PASCHYN

Modern conducting is highly individual and requires great musical understanding, a thorough knowledge of instruments and the concert repertoire, a clear mastery of the baton and hand gestures, and a human sympathy for the performers. ABODE interviews two great conductors to find out what drives their passion for music.

Gerald Wirth

GERALD WIRTH is the conductor and artistic director of the Vienna Boys’ Choir, one of Europe’s premiere children’s vocal ensembles. In January, the group travelled to Qatar to perform a New Year’s concert with the Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra and a special recital with the Al Jazeera Children’s Channel Choir. Wirth, himself a former child member of the choir, explains how the group transforms the lives of its young stars and expands audiences’ horizons. abOdE: What was your favourite moment performing in Qatar?

GW: It’s very good for the boys to perform with a big orchestra, which they do quite frequently in Vienna with the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra, but also on tour. So it’s a special thing. The orchestra here is very nice and interested in Viennese music so it’s a lot of fun to work with them, and they seem to enjoy also the singing of the boys, which is great! And to perform together with the

local children’s choir is a special thing because we have now done Arabian songs, like the two we did with them together, so it’s an interesting endeavour. …And, of course, it was fun for the boys to sit on a camel and run around the beach! abOdE: Do you think the Vienna Boys’ Choir has brought something to the Doha community?

GW: Well, of course we believe that, otherwise we wouldn’t tour! We bring our music, we bring our art form, and we offer that to the interests of the audience. abOdE: What inspires you?

GW: What inspires me is the music making itself, and the music, especially the different compositions. We have so many wonderful composers, not only in Austria, but also all over the world. It’s

always inspiring to work with that kind of music, and to teach the boys in a way that they are not aware of learning, and to see them developing from a non-experienced singer to a soloist of a high calibre. abOdE: How has the choir changed since you were a young member?

GW: Well, the choir is more than 500 years old, so when I was a boy and now is just a little portion of the choir’s history.

The big things like the daily training, the singing, and the repertoire to some extent have been very similar since the time that I was a boy. Nowadays, which is probably because of my personal interest, we do more international music; we do more collaboration with international musicians of other cultures. abOdE: What has the group brought to the Al jazeera Children’s Channel Choir?

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ABODE March.indd 27

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on her special day.

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GW: Every group, if they’re open, learns from the other group. The same way as our children, and especially our conductors, learn from every experience that we do, including from the orchestra here, from the choir here, and from the musicians. So maybe in the same way, the children’s choir here learned something from our boys. We do different music; European choral music is in many ways different from the Arabian songs we’re doing here. So I think it’s always good for children to see what other children do and what they can do artistically. abOdE: What has the choir added to the boys’ lives?

GW: I think one of the greatest benefits we offer the boys in the choir is the experience we get. There is no other organization in the world where the children have so much stage experience and concert experiences as our boys do.

Our boys have about 80-90 performances every season —and that’s not singing in a little chamber. [I mean] big concert halls, like the Carnegie Hall, the Musikverein in Vienna, the Sydney Opera House or like the opera house here. Just a couple of weeks ago, we sang at the New Year’s concert in Vienna and things like that happen all the time, which is nice for the children. It gives them a lot of musical experience, but also the experience of openness in the world. Just by meeting people in Qatar, for example, and just by seeing how people are dressed, how people walk around — it’s something that keeps their minds open.

NABIH AL KHATIB is the conductor of Siwar, the Al Jazeera Children’s Channel (JCC) Choir. A master Oud player and a champion of traditional Arabic music, this accomplished Lebanese composer and conductor is transforming Qatar’s musical landscape one child at a time.

Nabih Al Khatib

Siwar, which means bracelet in Arabic, is composed of Qatari and Arab children ages nine to 16. The choir was established by the JCC to help the country’s many talented youngsters discover and explore the rich musical heritage and diverse repertoire of the Arab world.

In January, Siwar had the opportunity to perform with the Vienna Boys’ Choir. Al Khatib reflects on the experience. abOdE: What is the significance of Siwar’s collaboration with the Vienna Boys’ Choir?

Nak: This event with the Vienna Boys’ Choir was very important because we had two cultures coming together: we had the Western culture and the Arabic culture. Especially with the Vienna Boys’ Choir, who are a really important choir in Europe and worldwide, this intersection gave us nice music.

abOdE: What is the Vienna Boys’ Choir planning next?

abOdE: How did it benefit Siwar’s young talent?

GW: We’re in the planning stage with North American Indians (Native Americans) to combine their traditional music and dance with the mid-European tradition.

Nak: This collaboration inspired the kids and opened new horizons for them, including cultural horizons. It was also fun for them to be together.

abOdE: What message do you hope to leave with the people of Qatar?

abOdE: What were you trying to accomplish with this collaborative concert?

GW: I hope the people of Qatar enjoyed [our concerts] and our type of art form.

We were very happy to be here and we are very happy to take some of the music home with us for future use and future projects. And I hope that we will be back in the not too distant future. •

people

Nak: Regarding this concert, in addition to the usual repertoire of Siwar (which is formed out of songs from the Arab world heritage with a new music arrangement prepared specially for Siwar), we wanted to give something new, something innovative.

In a joint effort with Mr Gerald Wirth, the artistic director of the Vienna Boys’ Choir, we were able to add a special flavour to the concert: two traditional Arabic songs for which the Vienna Boys sang in Arabic along with the Siwar children. This wasn’t easy for the Vienna Boys, who don’t speak Arabic, but they did it very well. And Siwar children had the opportunity to learn and sing one Austrian folk song with the Vienna Boys. It was an innovative experience and the children enjoyed it.

I think our audience appreciated this. abOdE: What other important lessons have you taught the children in Siwar?

Nak: Before we started rehearsing every day, I explained to the children the importance of the music and how music can affect their lives. So not only do we teach them how to sing, we explain everything about music. abOdE: How do you hope the Doha community will react to future concerts?

Nak: We hope more people will participate in our choir and come and hear our music. It would be nice for their children to have this experience as well.•

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I Love What I Do

getting out of bed in the morning?

david todd

Taking Over The City With A Smile

InterContinental brand in Qatar, and we also have an array of restaurants.

We have six restaurants, two lounge bars and a large conference facility.

I think for us it’s to ensure that our product is relevant to the market; we’re looking to attract both international and local residents to the hotel and I think our product is very useful because we benefit from both the residences and the hotel offerings. abOdE: What is the most exciting part of your job? What keeps you

abOdE: Looking back ten or fifteen years did you ever imagine that you’d

DAVID A AVID TODD is a man with a bright vision and positive outlook. As general manager for the new InterContinental Doha The City hotel, opening this month, he brings sixteen years of experience in the hospitality industry to the job. Starting out in the U.K., Cairo, Oman and the U.A.E. before settling in Qatar, Todd is no stranger to living and working in the Middle East. ABODE sits down with the friendly Scotsman to find out how he balances a jam-packed personal and professional life as the new InterContinental The City opens its doors to Doha.

dT: I think InterContinental Doha The City foremost brings its strength in the InterContinental brand to the city. We are a business city hotel offering three hundred and sixty guest rooms and a hundred and seventy six residence suites. We are bringing the residence suites into the market, a first for the

abOdE: Speaking of experiences in Doha, having been here for so long, have you had any interesting ones? dT: Yes! Being here so long but also focusing on opening the hotel for so long!

I think my best experiences in Doha, and what I like are the encounters that I’ve had with the local people [which] have been very open, very friendly. For my family and I, we enjoy Souk Waqif; this is my fourth country in the Middle East and I really think that the Souk Waqif is probably up there with the best of the bazaars I’ve come across, the most authentic. For me and InterContinental Doha The City hotel, we strive to provide authentic experiences to our guests and it’s important to have somewhere like Souk Waqif available to them. My free time is really taken up -- and free time is very scarce as a pre-opening general manager, but it’s with my family. Enjoying my family; we’ll do visits to Dukhan, great beaches there…very flat for the children, so they can walk out maybe two hundred metres and the water won’t go higher than their knees and they can catch starfish. That’s wonderful, you know?

BY ASHLEE STARRATT T TARRATT PHOTOGRAPHY jESSIE PA P LANCA

abOdE: In a city like Doha where there are so many hotels, tell us what the new InterContinental The City will bring to its guests? How is it bigger and better?

dT: For me it’s certainly working with the people around me, eighty-five to ninety percent of my management team has grown within the InterContinental Hotels group and for me and for us, that’s wonderful to share. For people to have opportunities to grow within the company and to work in a landmark property, I mean this is a significant opening for InterContinental Hotels Group: building on the already established InterContinental image in the city, but offering a different product. And I think that’s exciting. InterContinental Doha The City as a brand, we’re very proud of our in-the-know experiences. So for us, luxury is really sharing information with our guests, sharing our experiences within Doha and that excites me.

LIKES: MUSIC: Annie Lennox and the Eurythmics, David Guetta, Snow Patrol BOOKS: Stieg Larsson’s ‘Millennium’ Trilogy, Lynne Truss, ‘Eats, Shoots and Leaves’ ACTIVITIES: Enjoys going to Dukhan beach FOOD: Greek

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be in the position that you are today? dT: No, certainly not. I started with InterContinental sixteen years ago and then, I was a shift leader at the Edinburgh City Centre Hotel and this is my second general manager experience and it’s been a wonderful journey. I think having the opportunity to come to the Middle East, and certainly experience all the different cultures and meet new people. For me it’s all about people: I love interacting with them, sharing experiences with them, it’s a joy. And certainly I think that to be a general manager and to be a successful general manager it’s all about people. No, I didn’t imagine I’d be in the Middle East, but from the moment I got the opportunity, first of all with Cairo, I’ve never looked back. abOdE: Was that an overwhelming experience for you in Cairo? dT: Yes, it was! You know, I had come from a pre-opening general manager [position] for a small hotel in England and to go from England to Cairo into one of our largest properties, the Semiramis InterContinental where we had seven

hundred and thirty rooms and one of the largest conference facilities in the city. And Cairo doesn’t sleep. And there may be three lanes of traffic but there would be six lanes of traffic within those three lanes and it hits your different senses, new smells, lights, it’s truly wonderful. [In comparison] Doha is very calm. People stop at roundabouts here, which is a good thing! abOdE: What would be your tip for new drivers in Doha? dT: Always look in front of you, don’t look behind! abOdE: What would you say to someone starting out in the hospitality sector who wants to make it to the level that you’ve made it to today? Have you had any real learning experiences that have stuck with you over the years? dT: Be true to yourself. I worked with great leaders and learned from them.

Be open and just keep growing. With a company like InterContinental Hotels Group I’ve been a success story – sixteen years with the company, two general manager experiences to date,

The interiors of the new hotel InterContinental doha

I Love What I Do

also exposure within the corporate office and I think you’ve got to take those learnings and build on them to continue to evolve to your surroundings. abOdE: How does the InterContinental The City’s vision align with the national vision for 2030? dT: Certainly for [us] it’s to make sure that our hotel is relevant and works in tandem with that vision. So when we look at the growth of Doha and indeed the focus in the pillars of the vision, we’re looking at education, we’re looking at meetings and centres and lectures, the growth of tourism. We want to be a party to that and we want to grow with the Qatar Tourism Authority and grow with the country. With the name of our hotel InterContinental Doha The City I think it strengthens where we are within West Bay, The InterContinental Doha The City hotel is all about being different and that’s where we see ourselves aligned with the 2030 vision and being open and to continue evolving as the country evolves. •

The City

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ABODEhome

34

spEciAl fEAturE At Work With Forum Design

Artistic Commercial design In Action

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Design m u r o f h it w k r at Wo

Artistic Commercial

Design in Action PHOTOGRAPY BY jESSIE PALANCA

Forum Design is an affiliated company of the Ahmed Hassan Bilal group. The AHB group are well-known for high quality properties, interior design and restaurants. Within this group fortunate to have within its cast talented design staff an exceptionally talented visual artist.

The ArTisT Angelo Antonio Maristela is a multifaceted Filipino artist who has secured himself a spot in the highly competitive world of arts.

He has mastered many remarkable talents and can provide a range of styles that sets him apart from many other artists. His love of art manifested itself at the early age of three, it was therefore not surprising that at the tender age of 15, he had already started

to paint professionally. After attending the Philippine college at Far Eastern University, he gained his Bachelor of Fine Arts, and major in Advertising. His natural talent made him very popular with both his peers and professors, culminating in him winning several painting competitions, including being one of the finalists in the Philip Morris Art Awards, a prestigious regional art competition.

his work Angelo is able to transform a onedimensional portrait of a figure into something that appears to be almost breathing. To achieve this authenticity he has mastered the art of portraiture, no easy task as any true artist will tell you!

The portrait artist must be exceptionally skilled at observing every visual and emotional detail that comes to him from

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ConiC hATs Medium: Oil on canvas Size: 75”x 47” “These conic hats originated from South East Asia and protect Asian workers from sun and rain. I chose to paint this so that the guests would be inspired by the hardworking Asian people.”

Paintings: his subject, otherwise the final result would be disastrous. Over the years Angelo has expanded his artistic range to cater to different requirements, from corporate to commercial projects. He boldly embarked into the fields of abstract and impressionism, creating canvases of intense colours and individuality.

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interiors Inside sizzling Hotpots restaurant

tHE sEllErs Medium: Oil on canvas Size: 35” x 75” “This is a painting of traditional floating market in Thailand, where colorfully clad merchants are seen paddling a canoe with assorted vegetables and fruits.”

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BAmBOO stiCks Medium: Oil on Canvas Size: 75” x 20” “Bamboo is very common in Asian countries. I painted it in a fun way, making it colorful with a twist. I love bamboo, it is a great symbol of humility the higher it gets, the lower it bends.”

MAn vs. nATure Bring out the adventurer in him by adding accessories that highlight his love for the outdoors.

lATesT work Angelo’s newest art works is displayed in the recently opened, luxurious Bilal Pearl Suites and Sizzling Hotpot restaurant pictured.

Bilal Pear Suites is a majestic tower that encompasses concept design that is truly unique to Qatar and is exclusively created by a team of skilled designers, orchestrated by Mhairi Murphy, an internationally renowned Concept Designer. It seems fitting that such a prestigious project would host Angelo’s art works. Each art work has been inspired by the original project concept and all are striking in their individuality.

A small selection of Angelo’s art pieces are displayed in the new Asian restaurant at the Holiday Villa in Muntaza Street, Sizzling Hotpot. His paintings smoothly complement the Asian ambiance of this one of a kind, exciting new restaurant concept, recently opened in Doha.

Accessories used to compliment the Asian concept.

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interiors Inside sizzling Hotpots restaurant

A mAstEr pAintEr

Everyone is an artist, but not all are born gifted. One can be a master of realistic paintings, while another can express his art through distortion and call it abstract. An artist sets himself apart from the rest when he can easily switch between numerous media, from realism, to impressionism or abstract. Angelo can effortlessly do just that.

AbsTrACTs ArT work Angelo has exhibited frequently in the Philippines and his arts have also gained appreciation internationally. He was selected by Art Encounter in Las Vegas, Nevada, the largest gallery in the state, to join their dynamic group of artists. He was also featured in a two-week exhibition in 2006 along with one other artist, at the Philippine Center based in New York. In

2009, the Middle East opened its doors to Angelo when he was recruited to join the newly emerging Forum Design team. From then on, he has been producing wonderful art works which now hang in some of the most exclusive residential and commercial villas across Doha. His future vision is to capture the beauty and history of Qatar and preserve them on canvas for the next generations to appreciate

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The ArTisT AT work Angelo infuses each piece of his art with a tiny element of himself, taking pride and meticulous care to provide his subject with a result that is guaranteed to impress. Angelo selects his materials carefully to produce a quality product. He uses the best quality materials because he wants to ensure each masterpiece he produces should last a lifetime if not longer, enabling it to be passed to the next generation.

With many years of experience, he can easily select the best products to produce the best picture and deeply feels the characteristics of each brand, its strength and weakness. He virtually breathes hues and colors, so he has an uncanny talent for blending them well. He knows which materials will

interiors

stay soft and which ones will stand time. Seeing all traces of paints on his jeans and shirts, this is not hard to believe.

We all want to be inspired by our environments. After a long day’s work no-one wants to go home to grim, bland or even depressing surroundings: people love to see beauty, it helps us feel relaxed and peaceful. The paintings and other accessories you carefully choose for your own home and office interiors can go a long way to achieving this goal.

Angelo is available to help you choose which art pieces will be ideal for you, or can customize creations according to your needs.

His art works are guaranteed to add excitement and distinct character to one’s home or commercial interiors.•

If you have questions and/or want to be advised on any interior design matters, please do not hesitate to contact Forum Design, an affiliate of the Ahmed Hassan Bilal Trading & Contracting Group of Companies.

For more information please contact: Forum Design Telephone # +974 4456- 8716 Muntaza Street, Al Hilal Area PO Box 7848, Doha, Qatar Website: www.ahbqatar.com

Angelo Maristela Forum Design Mobile No. 5500-3228 Tel. No. 4456-8716 Fax No. 4456-8730 Email: angelo@ahbqatar.com

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ask designer

ABODE

asks a Designer

American designer Anna Jacoby answers questions about common decorating dilemmas and provides simple solutions for living in style.

How high over a dining table should you hang a chandelier?

A good rule of thumb when hanging a chandelier over a dining room table is to hang it so the bottom is approximately 30” above the table.

Since most tables are about 30” high, this means that the bottom of the light fixture will be about 60” or 5” from the floor. If you haven’t placed your table yet, this height will seem very low. But trust me--once your table is in place, the light fixture will look beautiful and be at the correct height.

How high should I hang a wall-mounted TV? You want the TV positioned where it will be very comfortable for viewing when seated. You don’t want to crane your neck to watch. Try this trick to help determine the perfect height: Sit on the couch or chair in front of the TV where you’ll be watching it. Ask someone to help you mark your eye level on the wall. Then stand up and make another mark on the wall at your eye level.

Hang the TV on the wall in between the two marks.

HOw Big sHOulD An ArEA rug BE? HO A rug for a dining room should be large enough to accommodate both the table as well as the chairs with people sitting in them. A rule of thumb is to add about 36” to the width and length of the table.

This will give enough room for diners to comfortably move their chairs in and out. Generally, china cabinets and buffets sit on the floor, not the area rug. In a living room, a rug under a coffee table looks best if the rug is the same length as the sofa.

An area rug measuring 6’ x 8’ or 5’ x 7’ is usually a good size in front of a sofa. If in doubt, select a bigger, rather than a smaller size rug.

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ask designer

How far away should the TV be from my sofa?

Many people are buying large flat screen TVs these days, but do they have enough space in their family room to accommodate it? You don’t want to be too close or too far. Here are some guidelines for some of the more popular screen sizes: For a 40” TV screen, you need about 5 to 8 feet of distance; for a 46” TV, you need about 6 to 9½ feet; and for a 52” TV, plan on 6½ to 11 feet.

HOw HigH sHOulD yOu HAng ArtwOrk? Artwork hung too high is something I see all the time. A great rule of thumb is to hang it so that the center of the artwork is 60-65” from the floor. Trust me—this works!

What about a pendant light over a bar or kitchen island?

What is the correct height?

The same rule of thumb applies here too. Start by holding the pendant light so that the bottom of the fixture is 30” above the countertop. In most situations this works perfectly.

jACOBY – Owner of Anna Jacoby A ANNA Interiors, USA. Anna Jacoby Interiors specializes in creating rooms for “real people”, keeping her clients taste, lifestyle and budget in mind; her design team provide design guidance, an expert eye, and creative flair.•

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special feature

y r u x u of L

Al Gassar Resort An Address

Positioned directly on Doha’s pristine coastline with breathtaking views of the Arabian Gulf, this prime residential location provides an ideal choice of customized services and amenities to discerning residents and visitors.

ABODE was invited to a sneak peek of all the luxurious address has to offer.

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special feature

Al Gassar complex

a

l Gassar Resort is located just minutes from the West Bay area, right next door to the restaurant-rich Katara and on the same grounds as the soon to be opened St. Regis Hotel. These new residences in Doha are surely situated in a prime location.

After receiving the grand tour of this majestic piece of architecture which lights up the sky at night, it is the wonderful attention to detail that sets Al Gassar residences apart from its competition.

Still at its soft opening stage, with some final snagging to be done and staff buzzing around to ensure the highest level of finish throughout, the first few lucky tenants have already settled in. This resort provides five star accommodation where luxury and exquisite service are guaranteed.

Colour Palet te: Caram el, latte and mocha ton es are blended with the bla ck wooden reception desk and oc casional furniture alongside chrome acc ents and highlights.

The Al Gassar Resort Residences consist of three towers, two ‘twin’ towers and the ‘round’ tower. The lobby in the round tower was one of the highlights and it exudes the elegance of the finest of five star hotels. The colours used are dark and inviting. Double height ceilings accentuate the grandeur. Each area is given its own personality and identity with library nooks and elegant low seating areas. The sheer full length curtains which encircle the lobby are given a contrasting fabric border running horizontally along the end.

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special feature

This gives the curtains elegance and structure and is a perfect example of how attention to detail is subtly used throughout to bring these spaces alive.

As you walk down the corridors to the apartments, the striped wallpapered walls in warm neutral tones create an inviting and luxurious feel.

The APArTMenT suiTes The apartments are all fully furnished with contemporary furniture using a black and cream colour palette. The sofas are large and inviting with coordinating upholstered dining chairs, marble topped round dining tables, with sleek credenzas and TV cabinets providing practical storage.

The living area also has a breakfast bar connected to the kitchen creating a nice bright open spaces perfect for family life or for entertaining. The colour palette continues through to the bedrooms which are restful with fitted wardrobes; leather upholstered beds and generous sized ensuites. Many of the apartments also have a wonderful unobstructed view of Doha’s fabulous cityscape.

The expansive living area is decorated with majlis style seating where large comfortable sofa’s in a champagne gold satin fabric form U shape around the room.

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special feature

The apartments are all fully furnished with contemporary furniture using a black and cream colour palette. The colour palette continues through to the bedrooms which are restful with fitted wardrobes; leather upholstered beds and generous sized ensuites.

The PenThouse The five bedroom penthouse is both exquisite and vast. The bedrooms are all tastefully decorated using a neutral earthy colour palette with taupes and browns, leather and dark woods. The expansive living area is decorated with majlis style seating where large comfortable sofa’s in a champagne gold satin fabric form a U shape around the room. The area exudes elegance and opulence with chandeliers and a large central carpet/ rug expanding the full length of this large room. Off of this is the dining area which also has an additional lounge seating area.

The colour palette flows through the two rooms creating a fluid continuity. Other features of the penthouse are a very large kitchen which is almost catering size and a laundry that contains no less than three washing machines. building AMeniTies The amenities offered include a state of the art gym, outdoor swimming pool, restaurants, children’s playroom, outdoor terrace, communal areas and ballroom.

The gym is equipped with the leading

in fitness equipment and the changing facilities and are quite special with sauna, steam room, jacuzzi and jet baths. These areas are all finished to an excellent standard with fabulous mosaic tiling detail throughout, pink for the ladies and blue for the boys.

The bAllrooM In the multifunctional ballroom with state of the art sound and lighting systems, I believe it is the detailing that really shines and gives the area character and personality. There are numerous meeting rooms, greeting rooms and salons each with its own identity but in keeping with the overall theme. The two white salons in particular are very impressive with white button backed leather upholstered sofas and armchairs and large fabric panelled wall details. The

large door handles are sublime. The wooden doors are embellished with motif panels and long wooden handles with decorate brass detailing, both elegant and impressive. The ballroom itself is luxurious and opulent yet still contemporary with elegant brocade fabric panelling on all walls and seating 1000-1200 people.

Another unique feature of the ballroom is the private elevator which is for the exclusive use of the bridal party but more specifically the bride. The elevator allows a bride-to-be, to enter the hotel from the basement parking level and go straight to the second floor which houses all of the suites where a full 5 star hotel experience can be expected. Here the bridal party can attend to any final preparations before the bride will use her private lift once more which will bring her directly to the ballroom where she can make her grand entrance.•

The two white salons in particular are very impressive with white button backed leather upholstered sofas and armchairs and large fabric panelled wall details.

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HOME

décor

design Trends with

With Mother’s Day around the corner, we asked tastemaker and interior designer Timothy Corrigan for some stylish gifts ideas that every mother would love. He selected items from both his own line of products (that can be ordered on-line) as well as some that are available for purchase in Qatar.

Here are his picks:

n a g i r r o C y h t o m i T ER TREASURED MOTH

on the Mirror Mirror est of e Fair Wall, Who’s th ?

Them All

Let your mother know that you think she is the fairest in the land with this pretty intertwined design framed mirror. It would be great in a living room, entry or over the bedroom dresser. Mirrors are a great way to make a room feel bigger and lighter. Schnadig Home Collections. (Cobblestone Round Mirror 8553-213. 42W x 43H)

This ivory inlaid Italian desk, circa 1830, is truly a one of a kind treasure. We discovered this desk while scouting antiques in Italy for Architectural Digest, where it had been housed in a 16thcentury villa. The whimsical inlaid ivory and marquetry wood insets, depict young children at play while their mother and storks watch over them.

What a perfect addition to any mother’s bedroom or library. The desk is 63 inches tall by 38 inches wide by 19 inches deep.

Available at www.timothy-corrigan.com -Antiques.

nderlust a W e h t r Fo Mother Transport your mother to one of her favorite places without ever having to leave home! These Timothy Corrigan Signature Candles evoke the scents of Paris, the gardens of a chateau in the French countryside and the California coast. Made in one of the most prestigious candle factories in France using perfume quality scents. www.timothy-corrigan.com/tchome

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HOME

décor

Hostess With The Mostess

These hand embroidered European linens will make any mother the talk of the town.

Available as placemats, dinner napkins and cocktail napkins. Choose the symbol your mother will love most: pomegranate, ginko, palm trees or starfish. Available at www.timothycorrigan.com - TC Home.

A Seat Fit for

a Queen

Ralph Lauren Home Cannes Marquise Chair the elegant fluted legs and gold leaf accents of this Louis XVI style chair make it the perfect throne for your mother to rest and rule from! The comfy overstuffed cushion and back meets our design philosophy of Comfortable Elegance: No matter how beautiful something is, comfort is key!

Win Her Heart

A Place for Everything and Everything in Its Plac e Your mother is sure to love this sophisticated vanity tray from Ralph Lauren Home. The mirrored glass insert is framed in ivory shagreen with silver plated brass accents. It’s the perfect place for her to display perfumes and trinkets from her loved ones. Deveraux Vanity Tray RL Number: TT843410183 Dimensions: 11.75” X 7” X 1”H/29.8cm X 17.8cm X 2.5cm

Fill this stylish Babylon Vase from the DEDON Collection with flowers, and you’re sure to be the favorite child! We love to mix textures and shapes in all of our design projects. The combination of this rugged vase filled with delicate flowers will allow you to achieve that perfect balance without even trying!

f P e a rl Mother o Functional yet feminine abalone shell covered tables will make your mother feel deeply loved. These versatile tables can be used in front of a sofa or on either end. Wherever you place them “shell” be thinking of you. Bernhardt: Abolone Shell Bunching Cocktail Table 319-012 W 18in. / D 18in. / H 18in. W 45.72cm. / D 45.72cm. / H 45.72cm. » To contact Timothy Corrigan go to www.timothy-corrigan.com

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ABODE

SimpleUpdates accessories

Bedrooms are a personal haven where in we look for comfort, serenity and luxury. With a few elements, you too can create a similar effect.

All Available at THE One

iDEA Accent the bedside chair with a cushion!

Gothic othic cushion cover {QR 179}

iDEA DEA Add texture with pillows, throws and luxurious bedding Megha cushion cover {QR 85}

Powdery hues and finishes on products in the bedroom are in vogue.

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accessories

iDEA Open up your space with a decorative mirror Wheel Mirror {QR 2625}

iDEA Hang a painting and be inspired!

Canvas Hirsch II {QR 1255}

iDEA Nestle smaller cushions into the overrall bed setting Lamu cushion {QR 83}

gEt tHE lOOk

Calm Hues Equals Serenity iDEA Stagger lanterns n the floor to give depth to the room.

Moorish Lantern grey {QR 30} KALA lantern {QR 105}

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Although a bedroom may have luxurious furnishings and beddings but if they come in soft hues, they make the space appear dreamy and serene.

Think

Before

Soft and elegant

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accessories

IDEA A floor mirror adds a touch of glamour AMY mirror

{QR 1365}

IDEA

Accentuate colou with cushions Eglantine Pillowcas {QR 41}

Secret Haven The

IDE IDEA Mix and match patterns to add interest.

Eglantine Duvet cover {QR 315}

Flower brighte morning b tra Blossom

{QR

Whoever said you can’t create a setting with busy pattern and hues? Be inspired with this beautiful, cosy haven All Available at THE One

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accessories

Play with colour Create special corners with bold coloured items that attract attention to each aspect of the room .

iDEA A bold colour adds to the muted colours of the candles.

DEA

Han Vase Purple {QR 83}

Accentuate colour with cushions glantine Pillowcase QR 41}

iDEA Add elegance with a gold jar in the corner FULL jar with gold {QR 525}

iDEA iDEA Flowers can brighten any morning breakfast tray Blossom stem

Soften the sofa and chair with mauve coloured pillows.

RAMBIR cushion cover{QR 369}

{QR 125}

gEt tHE lOOk

Add a personal touch

There is no such thing as too much colour or busy patterns. Patterns and designs in pink have been mixed with solid colours in muted shades in this room. The tall vase, floor length mirror and the box at the foot of the bed are just a few of the personal touches that you can add. The overrall effect is a calm, serene room setting befitting a beautiful princess.

Before

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furniture

Furniture Rock Stars With images that look as though they are ready to pop out of the screen, French furniture company Roche Bobois entices us with their new range of luxury furniture for the living room. The company stays true to its high colorhigh impact philosophy and ropes in rock star designers to create its furniture. Each beautiful piece has its own personality.

In Love sofa Design Philippe Bouix Upholstered in IN LOVE velvet. Set of Sonia Rykiel Maison for Roche Bobois back cushions.

Metal legs, black nicked finish.

C

C

Volutes Curved console Solid cherry wood, interiors in solid oak.

Turquoise lacquer (available in various finishes). Hand-waxed antique skim coat finish, bronze handles.

C

Dubois chest Solid linden, aged colour patina, waxed shellac finish, hand made antique patina.

C

ECHOES sectional sofa Design Maura Lipparini Rectangular tone on tone stitching on platforms and backs. Solid wood and particle board structure, XL elastic strap suspension. Upholstered in « Nature » leather, « nubuck » and « Echo » fabric.

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furniture

Il Teatro sofa Modular corner sofa upholstered in Bosphore leather, pigmented full grain cowhide Available in various sizes and compositions, armchair and ottoman.

Marie CĂŠcile chair Lacquered solid beech, traditional filing

Emilie armchair Solid beech structure. Traditional seat suspension: jute straps and rope-bound springs.

Feather and foam flake seat cushion

C

C Dubois chest Solid linden, aged colour patina, waxed shellac finish, hand made antique patina.

C

Calligraphe Modular sofa Design Philippe Bouix. Upholstered

by Emanuel Ungaro for Roche Bobois.

Completely removable slipcovers Other dimensions and straight sofas available.

C

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Bedroom

accessorize

how ow to change the look of your Just by changing some key components, the look of your bedroom can improve dramatically.

Here are a few ideas from the Home Center

If you are looking for a unique look and a new way to decorate your bedroom, you might want to think about duvet covers.

They are a great way to change the colour and feel of the room and they are easier to wash at home than a traditional bed spread.

Duvet Cover & Flat sheet (king size) {QR 438} and Pillow cases set (set of two) {QR 79}

Tealight Holder On Stand Purple {QR 55 (left) & QR 59}

(Available City Lifestyle) Velo re -Ta ble La mp

in Ch ro me

{Q R 299}

Add impact with an accent

iDEA Flowers add colour, texture, and dimension to any space

Orleans Rose Pillar Candle Pink {QR 15}

Whimsical and highly embellished round, square, triangular or ballshaped pillows add impact – the more the merrier.

Alliu m & Coll age Glas s Vas e w/ Peb bles-Re d {QR 79}

Bruwda -Gold Cush ion {QR 69}

Rossita Flower Cushion Pink {QR 59}

P-Matilda Gift set (photoframe, candle holder and lamp) {QR 89}

Gold Hammered Photo Frame 5x7�-{QR25}

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Keep Moving.

LS Residential brings you exclusive sales and lettings at Sabban Towers, The Pearl-Qatar. Be the first to reside in Doha’s most desired address.

Residential Sales at Sabban Towers, The Pearl-Qatar QAR 2,480,000

QAR 2,500,000

1 BEDROOM APARTMENT, SABBAN TOWERS LOCATION: THE PEARL-QATAR SIZE: 153.7 SQM REF NO: 1182. READY TO VIEW

2 BEDROOM APARTMENT, SABBAN TOWERS LOCATION: THE PEARL-QATAR SIZE: 171 SQM REF NO: 1171. READY TO VIEW

TO VIEW CALL: +974 4491 3222

QAR 2,450,000

2 BEDROOM APARTMENT, SABBAN TOWERS LOCATION: THE PEARL-QATAR SIZE: 154.2 SQM REF NO: 1176. READY TO VIEW

TO VIEW CALL: +974 4491 3222

TO VIEW CALL: +974 4491 3222

QAR 3,000,000

QAR 3,000,000

Residential Sales at Sabban Towers, The Pearl-Qatar QAR 2,900,000

2 BEDROOM APARTMENT, SABBAN TOWERS LOCATION: THE PEARL-QATAR SIZE: 186.7 SQM REF NO: 1197. READY TO VIEW

2 BEDROOM APARTMENT, SABBAN TOWERS LOCATION: THE PEARL-QATAR SIZE: 205.6 SQM REF NO: 1196. READY TO VIEW

TO VIEW CALL: +974 4491 3222

2 BEDROOM APARTMENT, SABBAN TOWERS LOCATION: THE PEARL-QATAR SIZE: 172.8 SQM REF NO: 1198. READY TO VIEW

TO VIEW CALL +974 4491 3222

TO VIEW CALL: +974 4491 3222

QAR 2,700,000

QAR 1,600,000

Residential Sales at Sabban Towers, The Pearl-Qatar QAR 1,900,000

2 BEDROOM APARTMENT, SABBAN TOWERS LOCATION: THE PEARL-QATAR SIZE: 173.1 SQM REF NO: 1165. READY TO VIEW

2 BEDROOM APARTMENT, SABBAN TOWERS LOCATION: THE PEARL-QATAR SIZE: 207.6 SQM REF NO: 1164. READY TO VIEW

TO VIEW CALL: +974 4491 3222

+974 4491 3222

SUITES A1-A2 TORNADO TOWER, WEST BAY PO BOX 22508. DOHA QATAR

ABODE March.indd 55

TO VIEW CALL: +974 4491 3222

2 BEDROOM APARTMENT, SABBAN TOWERS LOCATION: THE PEARL-QATAR SIZE: 125.7 SQM REF NO: 1160. READY TO VIEW

TO VIEW CALL: +974 4491 3222

WWW.LSKEEPMOVING.COM

2/27/12 1:52 PM

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M

Y

M

Y

Y

Y

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62

fOOD fEAturE Just Desserts with Executive Pastry Chef, Somboon Tantanasarn

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FOOD

health

Avocados Amazing

A Deliciously Disguised Fruit By gloria duran renderos, bsc. mph, nutrition consultant

Health conscious consumers once shunned avocados for being too high in fat, but now we know that the fats found in avocados are very similar to those found in olive oil. With numerous scientific studies suggesting that eating avocados is an important part of a healthy diet, the avocado has been vindicated.

In case you didn’t know, an avocado is considered a fruit, and is closer to a berry in botanical terms. However, it is primarily used as a vegetable and served cold in salads or in sauces, all over the world. If you look hard enough you might encounter Avocado ice-cream in Central and South America and in the MENA area it is added to fruit cocktails like a banana.

No matter how you slice it avocados are not only delicious, they are exceptionally good for you, too!

ocado eel an av how to pand Peel method: The Nick in half

c ad o nd remove 1. Cut avo s apart a e lv a h o e tw 2. Twist th d e e s e knife e th ers with th s in quart e lv a a h t u 3. C kin off like maining s re e th l e e 4. P ba na na e rich dark serves th re p d pulp o th This me in and the nd the sk u ro a ants a id x re green a er of antio e st nu m b rg la e th where d. are store

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fOOD

health

8 HEAltH BEnEfits AssOCiAtED witH EAting AvOCADOs: ANTI-INFLAMMATORY BENEFITS Avocados have anti-inflammatory nutrients such as Omega 3 Fatty acids, carotenoid anti-oxidants, phytosterols which are essential for the prevention of both osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.

ALTHY HEART ART A Avocados vocados contain A HEALTHY heart-healthy monounsaturated fat like that in olive oil, which actually lowers blood cholesterol. Avocados are also rich in Vitamin E, antioxidants and folate, which can help reduce the risk heart disease dramatically.

Avocados are also a good source of potassium, a mineral, which helps regulate blood pressure and guards against high blood pressure, heart disease and stroke.

BREAST AND PROSTRATE CANCER PROTECTION The monounsaturated fats in avocados, particularly oleic acid, have been shown to offer significant protection against breast cancer. Additionally, avocados are an excellent source of carotenoids and antioxidants which are credited with inhabiting the growth of prostrate cancer cells.

ALTHY E YES A Avocados contain a HEALTHY higher level of lutein than any other fruit.

Studies show that a higher intake of carotenoids such as lutein and zeaxanthin, which often appear together, is related to a reduced risk of cataracts and agerelated eye conditions.

DEFENSE AGAINST ORAL CANCER Avocados contain antioxidant compounds A shown to kill both cancerous and precancerous oral cells without harming normal cells.

the production of hormones that support attraction, mood and desire. Avocados are also high in potassium and vitamin B6, both essential for the production of hormones.

ANTI-AGING BENEFITS Avocados are loaded with glutathione, a powerful antioxidant that neutralizes free radicals that damage cells and hasten the aging process. The vitamin E in avocados can help to maintain healthy skin.

DIABETES CONTROL ONTROL Avocados are low in carbohydrates and rich in fiber, particularly soluble fiber, which helps regulate the body’s use of sugars. Both properties are important for individuals with diabetes. •

HEALTH A Avocados are rich in nutrients such as vitamin E, believed to promote

Guacamole (Yields 2 Snack Portions) ingredienTs: » 1 ripe Hass avocado » 1 tbsp onion, diced » 1 scallion, chopped » 1 garlic clove, minced » 1 small vine-ripe tomato, diced » 1 jalapeno chili, seeded & chopped » 1/4 tsp ground cumin » 1/4 tsp cayenne powder » 1 tbsp fresh lime juice » 2 tsp extra virgin olive oil » 2 tbsp cilantro leaves, chopped » Sea salt & freshly cracked black pepper to taste PrePA P rAT PA A ion: AT Roughly mash avocado in a bowl with lime juice. Fold in all the other ingredients and serve with chips.

»

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feature

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fOOD

feature

s t r e s s e D 6 Enticing

from Oryx Rotana march 2012 ABODE 61

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feature

A time For Just Desserts with Executive Pastry Chef, Somboon Tantanasarn photography Jessie Palanca Thanks to this talented chef, ABODE found quite a few recipes that look fantastic, taste even better and can be a great way to bond with your family when you step into your own kitchen. Chef Somboon shares his 6 wonderful desserts with ABODE, each one tasting better than the last. As we licked our spoons we had the chance to spend a few minutes getting to know him and came away absolutely amazed...”

For starters, his advice to cooking enthusiasts is to begin with a bit of soul searching. “I can give you all my recipes, knowledge and skills but I cannot give you attitude, respect and drive and those have to come from you.”

A resident of Thailand, this talented chef has worked in many prestigious hotels, including the pre-opening team of The St. Regis, Bangkok most recently prior to his latest assignment at the Oryx Rotana, Qatar. With over 15 years of experience as a pastry chef, this is how he defines himself “my style is conservative, simple and classic. I enjoy taking traditional methods or flavour combinations and working with them. I search for unique ingredients and incorporate them into my recipe.” He presents each of the desserts with the flourish of a master in the serene ambience of Oryx Rotana’s Sky Lounge.

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feature

Varlhona Chocolate Strawberry Jelly Mousse Cake.

Ivory White Chocolate Mousse Passion Fruit Jelly.

Vanilla Bean Mousse Raspberry Bavaroise Cake

Dark Chocolate Biscuit Ingredients

Dark Chocolate Biscuit Almond Dacquoise Ingredients

Almond Sponge

» 430g almond paste » 130g sugar » 210g egg yolks » 150g eggs » 250g egg white » 130g sugar » 100g flour » 175g cocoa powder » 100g melted butter

» 130g icing sugar » 270g almond powder » 450g egg whites » 240g sugar » 50g allpurpose flour

» 300g almond paste » 750g whole eggs » 250g sugar » 500g bread flour » 175g butte » Soften almond paste with paddle. » Incorporate eggs, sugar, whip for 10 minutes. » Fold in flour, followed by butter. Bake in ½ sheet 10-12 minutes at 200 C.

Instructions

» Mix the almond paste, sugar, egg yolks and eggs well. » Beat the sugar and egg white until stiff. Blend the two mixtures together. Then add the sieved flour. » Cocoa and melted butter, spread over a baking sheet covered with greaseproof paper Bake at 190 C.

Jellified Strawberry & Raspberry Puree Ingredients » 200g strawberry puree » 200g raspberry puree » 60g sugar » 4 leaf » gelatin

Instructions

» Soften the gelatin in cold water, mix the tempered fruit puree with the sugar, drain the gelatin, melt it in a microwave oven and add it to the puree.

Chocolate Mousse Ingredients

» 230g sugar » 100g water » 300g egg yolks » 1000g Varlrhona dark chocolate » 8g gelatin leaves » 2000g unsweetened whipping cream

Instructions

» Boil sugar and water up to 118 C and while beating egg yolks, pour sugar water mixture in a stream like fashion on egg yolks, then beat until entire mixture is lukewarm. » Add soaked gelatin. » First fold in melted chocolate and then soft peaked whipped cream.

Assembly: » Place the dark chocolate biscuit in the bottom of mound, pipe the dark chocolate mousse on top biscuit, take the jelly strawberry place over the chocolate mousse then cover again with chocolate mousse, freeze to finish sprinkle with cocoa powder. •

Instructions

» Beat sugars and egg whites. » Mix this with the dry ingredients. » Bake dough shortly at 230 C.

Jellied Disks of Passionfruit Coulis Ingredients

» 300 g passion fruit pulp » 200 g sugar » 8 g pectin for yellow fruits » 6 g leaf gelatin

Instructions

» Boil the pulp with the sugar and pectin. » Remove from heat and add the pre-softened gelatin.

Raspberry Bavaroise » 125g raspberry puree » 125g whipped cream 125g Italian meringue » 4g lemon juice » 4g gelatin sheets » 6g raspberry liqueur » Soften the gelatin in cold water. » Bring the raspberry puree and lemon juice to a boil. Add the pre-softened gelatin into the hot raspberry puree until melted and add raspberry liqueur. » Whip the cream to soft peak. » Gently and gradually fold the raspberry puree into the Italian meringue.

Ivory Chocolate Mousse Ingredients

Vanilla Mousse Ingredients

» 300g white chocolate, chopped » 112g cream, 35% butterfat » 48g egg yolks » 40g caster sugar » 500g whipped cream, 35% butterfat » 3g gelatin sheet

» 120g egg yolks » 165g sugar » 3 gelatin sheets » 450g heavy cream » 1 vanilla pod »

Instructions

» Soften the gelatin sheets in cold water. » Boil the cream and slowly pour over the finely chopped white chocolate.

» Stir until it becomes creamy. » After this, add the pre-softened gelatin sheet. » Then fold with the chocolate mixture and the whipped cream.

Assembly:

» Place the almond dacquoise in the bottom of mound, pipe the ivory chocolate mousse on top almond dacquoise,take the jelly passion fruit place over the ivory chocolate mousse then cover again with ivory chocolate mousse, freeze to finish glaze’ with passion fruit coulis on top of cake served with skin orange compote. •

¼ tsp salt

Instructions

» Whip egg yolks and vanilla pod until thick and ribbon and bloom gelatin in cold water.

» Wet sugar with water in a sauce pan and allow it to look like wet sand. Wash down the sides of the pan to avoid burning. » Cook gently at 121 C. Add gelatin to yolks whilst mixing and add hot sugar in slow streams. » Cool mixture down to room temperature. Whip cream to soft peaks and fold into the yolk mixture.

Assembly: » Place the almond sponge in the bottom of mound, pipe the vanilla bean mousse on top sponge,take the raspberry bavaroise place over the vanilla bean mousse then cover again with vanilla bean mousse, freeze decorate with orange tuille. •

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feature

Mango Chiboust Dark Cherry Compote Sliced

Passion Fruit Soufflé with Mango Ice cream

Beestings Brioche Cake Creamy Custard Cream

Almond Biscuit Ingredients

Passion Fruit Souffle’ Ingredients

Brioche Dough Ingredients

» 250g whole eggs » 180g icing sugar » 25g cake flour » 30g bread flour » 18g powdered almond » 250g egg whites » 83g granulated sugar » 45g butter (melted) » 0.5 orange (zests)

Instructions

» Beat eggs, icing sugar, flour and powdered almond. » Beat egg whites and sugar into soft peaks then fold into flour mixture. » Add melted butter and grated orange zests and spread on a sheet pan. » Bake at 190 C for 12 minutes.

Cherry Compote Ingredients » 2300g stoned whole cherries » 15g pectin » 50g cinnamon » 20g cardamom » 500g sugar

Instructions

» Caramelize sugar and cool it off with cherry juice.

» Leave the seasonings to infuse. » Then sift the seasoning mixture and boil it together with the pectin.

» Remove pan from heat, than add and mix the cherries in it.

Mango Chiboust Ingredients » 300g mango puree » 120g yolks » 40g sugar » 50g light cream » 15g corn starch » 3pcs gelatin sheets » 150g egg whites » 70g sugar

Instructions

» Cook the mango puree, cream, yolk, sugar and corn starch as a pastry cream while hot add pre-soaked drained gelatin, then add the whites beaten with the sugar.

» 500g milk » 50g sugar » 60g corn flour » 15 nos yolks » 100g butter » 150g passion puree » 20g orange aroma » 280g eggs white » 20g powder eggs white » 180g sugar

Instructions

» Milk sugar boil add corn flour, egg yolk, butter

» 1200g bread flour » 40g dry yeast » 380g fresh milk » 270g sugar » 6nos eggs » 360g solf butter » 1 pinch salt » vanilla »

Instructions

Prepare yeast dough, adding the butter at the end, kneading approximately 15 minutes. Roll evenly out onto three trays.

passion, fruit puree and orange aroma.

» Egg whites sugar and powder eggs white makes meringue mix both together at 230 C for 25 minutes.

Mango Ice Cream `Ingredients

» 150ml milk » 300ml heavy cream » 1/3 vanilla bean (pod), split and the seeds scraped out » 6 egg yolks » 75g granulated sugar » 250g mango puree

Instructions

» Put the milk, cream, and vanilla bean (pod) and seeds in a pan and bring to a boil. Mix together the egg yolks and sugar in a bowl. » Add the hot milk mixture, return the contents of the bowl to the pan and put back over a gentle heat, stirring, to make custard. » Fish out the pieces of vanilla pod (bean). » Mix in the mango puree and leave overnight. » Next day stir and pour into an ice-cream machine and freeze. •

Almond Topping

» 120g butter » 240g sugar » 70g glucose » 70g honey » 120g cream » 480g sliced almond

Filling

» 400g vanilla cream » 400g whipped cream » 4 sheets gelatin

Assembly:

» Boil butter, sugar, honey and cream, remove from stove and fold in sliced almond.

» Cool down, spread evenly onto dough, proof and bake at 200 degree until golden brown cool, slice and fill with vanilla cream serve with cream diplomat. (You can use vanilla cream 100g / whipped cream 100g) •

s!

ABODE RECIPE card create your Cut out this page to ipe file! personal ABODE rec

Assembly:

» Assemble the cake in a stainless steel frame add the almond biscuit spread a layer of cherry compote place another sheet of almond biscuit on top then another layer of mango chiboust place in the deep-freezer finish with caramelized sugar the surface of cake and glaze’ with apricot cold gel. •

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Spinach salad with fresh berries, cucumber, walnut, feta and balsamic dressing

Battered fried fish with marinated beetroot salad and saffron aioli

restaurant Mykonos By Chef Kostas Panou

restaurant Mykonos By Chef Kostas Panou

Tropical fruit tartar with lime sorbet chilled basil and lavender consommĂŠ

Grilled marinated in true well herbs, served with bean vegetable stew & parsley oil.

restaurant Mykonos By Chef Kostas Panou

restaurant Mykonos By Chef Kostas Panou

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ABODE

recipe

ABODE

Battered fried fish with marinated beetroot salad and saffron aioli.

INGREDIENTS: 220 gr cod fillet or other white fillet 125ml soda water 150 gr flour ½ts salt ½ ts sugar 120 gr beetroot 60 gr potatoes 40 ml mayonnaise 30 ml olive oil 15 ml red wine vinegar 20 gr fresh water cress Salt and pepper 5 gr garlic

PREPARATION: » Mix the flour with the soda water salt and sugar till smooth and keep refrigerated. » Boil the beetroot peel cut in desirable size and marinate with oil ,balsamic, salt and pepper » Peel the potato and boil when completely cooked drain and mash leave to cool, then mix with saffron, finely chopped garlic ,mayonnaise and olive oil » Till smooth. » Season and floured the fish deep in batter and the immerse in the deep frier and cook till crispy and brown. » Mix the beetroot salad with the water cress. » Serve on a plate the fish with the salad on the side and a good dollop of the aioli.

recipe

Spinach salad with fresh berries, cucumber, walnut, feta and balsamic dressing.

INGREDIENTS: 80 gr baby spinach 30 gr sliced cucumber 25 gr roughly chopped walnuts 40 gr roughly crushed feta cheese 30 ml olive oil 15 ml balsamic vinegar 40 gr berries (blackberry, raspberry) Salt and pepper.

PREPARATION: » With a hand blender mix the olive oil, balsamic and half of the berries seasoning and blend till smooth.

» In a mixing bowl place the spinach, cucumber and some of the dressing and toss well, serve in a plate and add the feta,walnut. » Finish with some dressing on top.

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recipe

ABODE

Grilled marinated in true well herbs, served with bean vegetable stew & parsley oil.

INGREDIENTS 160gr Tenderloin Fillet 30gr Snow peas 20gr Baby Carrot 20gr Baby Corn 20gr Baby Leek 30ml Tomato Sauce 0.50 Thyme 0.50 Rosemary 0.50 Lavender 0.50 Ground Coriander 1 cup Parsley

PREPARATION:

» In a pan add the onion and olive oil, sauté all the vegetable add the tomato & season. » Leave light to simmer chop all the herbs and cover the tenderloin, season and sear in a pan. » Place in oven till medium well. In a blender, put the rest of olive oil and parsley till smooth. » Put the parsley all in a plate, arrange the stew and the beef on top.

recipe

CMY

Tropical fruit tartar with lime sorbet chilled basil and lavender consommé.

INGREDIENTS: 30 gr dragon fruit 30 gr mango ripe 25 gr strawberry 30 gr kiwi 25 gr pineapple 40 ml water 50 gr sugar 1 gr lavender flowers 3 basil leaves 1 scoop of lime sorbet 40 ml tonic water.

K

PREPARATION: » Boil the water with the sugar and add the lavender, leave to infuse and strain, add the basil » Cut all the fruits in small cubes. » Serve the fruits in a plate, mix the syrup with the tonic water and pour around the fruits, add the sorbet on the top.

60ml Olive oil Salt and Pepper 30gr Chopped Onion

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y a A Mother’s D

c i CelebrAtion n c i P ABODE

special feature

Mother’s Day is a worldwide celebration honouring mothers and celebrating motherhood, maternal bonds and the influence of mothers in our society. Celebrations of mothers and motherhood occur throughout the world most commonly in March, April, or May. In most Arab countries Mother’s Day is celebrated March 21 thanks to Egyptian journalist Mustafa Amin who introduced the idea in 1943.

W

hatever the date for the celebration, whether March, April or May, while the weather is wonderful, why not take the time to say thank you to a person who dedicates her life to making her loved ones thrive by planning a picnic for mom.

plAnning fOr wEAtHEr Okay, so weather is out of your control. But for a Mother’s Day that turns out to be too dusty, don’t ditch the picnic. Turn out the lights, turn off the television and lay out the picnic fixing’s on the living room floor and light the room with candles!

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ABODE

piCniC fOOD

special feature

“tAkE AwAy” gOODiEs AvAilABlE At lA CigAlE HOtEl

Because food is very subjective, the general idea is to create a meal that is simple, portable as well as interesting and creative. The fewer utensils you have to carry the better, so think finger-food.

Traditional picnic foods ideas• Salads - a light and refreshing option, but remember that it requires extra packaging and utensils.

• Sandwiches - in all shapes and sizes. For kids plan simple sandwiches you know they will eat, otherwise feel free to get creative.

tHE iDEAl piCniC lOCAtiOn Where does Mom love to go? Does she love the beach? Think Sealine Beach Resort or does she prefer a busy cosmopolitan park?

Like the Corniche, Aspire or the new MIA park. Choose with her in mind.

• Snacks should be finger-food. Pack up cubed fruit, fresh veggies, home baked cookies, and brownies.

• Choose an assortment of beverages: juices and milk for the kids, sodas, sparkling water, even vino for the adults. Make sure Mom’s favourite foods are accounted for.

Also, consider a day-trip combined with a picnic. Fill up the gas tank and go for a drive. Stop at the local fruit and vegetable markets by Salwa road for fresh picnic items too.

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ABODE

special feature

tHE piCniC BAskEt The ideal solution is a basket specially outfitted for the occasion; if you can’t find the ideal one you can purchase a picnic basket with plates, napkins and utensils from amazon.com.

piCniC DisHEs AnD silvErwArE It’s up to you. Do you want to wash dishes when you get home or will you have resources available so you can dispose of paper and plastic?

AvAilA Bl At HOm E E CEntr E

If you’re interested in reducing waste as much as possible, then bring food in plastic containers and carry along your own plates, knives and forks. After the picnic, these can be cleaned in the kitchen once you get home.

piCniC BlAnkEt A proper picnic blanket designed to both sit on and lay out your spread should be chosen based on the type of landscape you’ll be visiting. If you plan to sit on grass—unless it is very short and soft—you should bring along a thicker blanket, preferably made from wool. If your destination is a sandy beach, a thinner blanket will do.

Remember that you may be sitting and lying on your impromptu table for quite some time, so softness counts. Make sure you remember to bring pillows as well.

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ENTERTAINMENT

in the kitchen

Lakeland

Family Picnic Zest up your family picnic with some creative containers to keep delicious family recipes safely stored while you enjoy the beautiful outdoors.

Thermos food jar

• Virtually unbreakable, this ‘playground proof’ stainless steel flask has a grippy base and lid so it’s easy for little hands to open. Just the thing for a nutritious hot snack in the middle of the school day. Keeps food hot for up to 5 hours or cold for up to 7. {QR 135}

Klip-It with strainer

• The addition of a strainer makes this airtight tub perfect for draining or separating liquids and food, so it’ll come in really handy for olives, pickled onions, beetroot or fruit with juice. No leaking, no staining, great quality and really good sizes too!

Creating an airtight, watertight seal when ‘pushed’ shut, they do exactly what they say on the box – just push the two tabs on the sides and the lids pop off. Freezer safe, and microwave safe with the lids removed. {QR 32}

Box Appetit Large lunch box

• Box Appetit is so much more than a sandwich box! Enabling you to take noodles, sushi, salad, pasta or whatever you fancy, it’s made from polypropylene and divided into sections so you can split different foods; there’s even a removable inner bowl so you can microwave part of a meal but keep everything else cold. With a sauce-dipping area and lift-out pot ideal for salad dressing, the glass-like lid creates a watertight, silicone seal for everything that’s inside, keeping contents fresh and crisp. The lid doubles as a plate too, and as if that wasn’t enough, they’ve even included a fork with cutting edge, so you really can eat whatever you want wherever you are... {QR 119}

Power ‘N Go S-200 Solar panel

• Give a friend the gift of power... wherever they go! A portable solar panel ideal for caravanners, campers and anyone who spends time in the great outdoors, the S-200 will charge portable devices such as mobile phones, GPS and bluetooth devices, MP3 players... and of course the Power’n Go Energ y Pack. It’s weather-resistant and comes complete with all the cables and connecting tips that you’ll need for renewable, portable energ y that costs nothing. {QR 299}

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ENTERTAINMENT

in the kitchen

Thermos

• Meet the new breed of flask from Thermos: virtually unbreakable and in a classically retro cobalt blue, they’re the ultimate outdoor companions. The small one keeps drinks hot for 12 hours or cold for 24. Weight 354g. The large drinking flask will keep your beverage hot or cold for up to 24 hours.

No outdoor activity should be undertaken without them! Weight 682g.

Large {QR 165} Small {QR 145}

Klippits

• Klippits, one of the most popular products in our range. If you haven’t tried them yet, you are in for a pleasant surprise. They give an airtight seal to freezer bags, and opened cartons or packets of dry goods. The unique hinge can be flexed thousands of times without weakening. {QR 25}

Push and Push Storage boxes

• The addition of a strainer makes this airtight tub perfect for draining or separating liquids and food, so it’ll come in really handy for olives, pickled onions, beetroot or fruit with juice.

Set of 3 square (1 x 550ml, 1 x 850ml, 1 x 1.15ltr) {QR 79}

• Cobb Barbecue Cooking System • Cobb looks set to change outdoor cooking forever. Let us introduce you to the ultimate barbecue system - which also roasts, smokes and cooks. A handful of briquettes provides up to 3 hours of cooking time.

Fill the moat with water, wine or beer, and add seasoning, to infuse roasts with succulent melt-in-the-mouth flavours. Extremely versatile - from freshly smoked salmon in 15 minutes to delicious crisp pizza. {QR 800}

Keep Cool Cake Box

• A compact little companion that we think is ideal for milk, particularly to go with a flask of tea or coffee. Small enough to fit easily into a bag, it will also prove very handy when out and about.

Double walled stainless steel with leak-proof lid. Not suitable for hot liquids. {QR 79}

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ABODE

Wi fone Mother’s Day

special feature

Surprise Your For the men who are clueless on what do for your wife on March 21st, ABODE wanted to help. So we searched the internet and found a great website (www.mothersdaycentral.com) that lists a few helpful, interesting and creative tips for husbands to show the women they love how much she means to them. Here is their list of great ideas:

Cook For Her

Bring HOmE A BOuQuEt

Plan ahead to prepare a delicious dinner on Mother’s Day. Choose a recipe you know she’ll love, buy the fresh ingredients to create something new and original.

Consider a dish that pulls from the flavours of her favourite types of food.

For example, if you know she loves Italian food like pasta and pizza, consider cooking, lasagne, ravioli, gnocchi or another undiscovered recipe. tip: Even if you’re not a natural chef, cooking a delicious meal can be remarkably simple.

Pick her Wildflowers. You’ll earn points for spontaneity, while providing a fresh, natural, bouquet that will last for days.

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ABODE

special feature

Free Time Whether she wants uninterrupted relaxation or time away with girl friends, make it happen: Let her know that you will take care of the kids, handle all meals and field the phone calls.

Give her an IOU Promise her a day free of chores or two tickets to a local concert. IOU’s let her choose the time and place to redeem her Mother’s Day gift. She can use them right away, or wait until a more another time when she is more in need of a break.

BrEAkfAst in BED Make sure you have everything ready the day before – the tray, the coffee and the fixings for her favourite breakfast. Let her know that today she can stay in bed and enjoy breakfast as long as she wants.

tAkE HEr Out fOr A mOviE Arrange a babysitter for the kids and invite Mom to a movie and diner. A date and movie is an ideal opportunity to enjoy hours of carefree, silly and spontaneous conversation with your wife.

Groom Yourself Before going out on Mother’s Day, choose a nice suit, put on some cologne and shave your weekend shadow. Taking the time to look nice for your wife is a flattering gesture that won’t go unnoticed.

Wash and detail her car

Vacuum and wipe down the inside; wash and wax the outside so it shines.

fill up tHE tAnk

You wife will enjoy a very pleasant surprise when she turns on her car. This increasingly valuable gesture not only saves her money, but time as well.

givE HEr A mAssAgE Give Mom a stress-relieving backrub or massage. Even if you never learned shiatsu, gently pressing out the knots in her shoulders and back is an intimate, invigorating expression of your affection, love and appreciation. » Source; http://www.mothersdaycentral.com/tips-gestures/from-husband/

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ABODE

Mom

special feature

th is y ea r

Get the Kids to Surprise & Pamper Mother’s Day comes once a year, so make the most of it. Here are a few ideas from one of our favourite websites –Kaboose ( www.kaboose.com). In this issue we feature two crafts the kids can make for mom thanks to the editors of Kaboose. We have also included two heart-felt Mother’s Day cards that any Mother will Love. Kids can add their very own message. Simply cut these cards out and let the kids personalize them.

QuEEn fOr A DAy CHAir COvEr BOuQuEt Of pHOtO flOwErs Looking for a bouquet of flowers that will never wilt or die? Make this precious keepsake for Mom or Grandma and they will cherish it always.

Further instructions at; “http://holidays. kaboose.com/mothers-day/index. html”Mother’s Day

what you’ll need: Construction paper, various colors » Glue stick » Photos » Scissors » Tape » Green chenille stems, one for each flower O Optional: patterned paper how to make it:

» Cut photos into circles to be used as the center of the flower. » Cut simple flower shapes out of construction paper. » Glue photo circle to the center of the flower. » This step is optional: Glue construction paper flower to a piece of patterned paper. Cut around the flower giving your construction paper about a half-inch border of patterned paper. » Tape chenille stem to the back of your flower. Make sure the tape is secure by pressing onto the tape with your fingernail. » Trim ends of chenille to the length you desire, depending on what you are using as a vase. If making a handheld bouquet, don’t trim the chenille; simply tie a ribbon bow around them all.

Mother’s Day is the day that all mothers should be treated as if they were queens! Make this lovely chair cover and give Mom the royal treatment. For more information on this Mother’s Day project go to http://holidays.kaboose.com/mothers-day/index. html”Mother’s Day. what you’ll need: » Standard white pillowcase » 4 brown paper grocery bags » White craft glue » Scissors » 2 spools of colourful ribbon (we used purple and yellow) » Sequins in a variety of colours » Pencil » Gold paint pen » Colourful craft jewels » Colourful pom-poms » Pink and silver glitter glue » Pattern how to make it: » Start with an ironed pillowcase. Insert the four paper bags inside the pillowcase. This will keep the glue from seeping through the fabric and sticking to the other side. » Print out the pattern. Cut out the crown and position in the middle of the pillowcase. » Using your favourite font, print out the word”QUEEN” in big letters and place it above the crown. » Then cut out each letter individually and place back onto the pillowcase. » Pipe white craft glue around each letter and remove the patterns. Place sequins on the glue. » Use a pencil to trace around the crown pattern. Remove pattern and trace pencil markings with gold paint pen. » Decorate the crown using pom-poms, and glitter glue to write “MOM”.

Outline the crown with silver glitter glue. » Line the outer edges of the pillowcase using pink and yellow ribbon, adhering with white craft glue. Decorate corner by tying a couple of bows and gluing them in place. Glue another bow toward the bottom of the case, under the crown.

Glue craft jewels in the bottom corners to cover up the ends of the ribbons. » Decorate the bottom border of the pillowcase using colourful craft jewels. Glue smaller craft jewels in a line between the word “QUEEN” and the crown. » Allow everything to dry completely before removing the paper bags. Place pillowcase over the back of Mom’s chair.

Poem om fo r m

Just fOr yOu! Heart-felt

two We have included ideas that any Mother’s Day Card s can colour Kid Mother will Love.

Day cards r’s the their ver y own Mo ssage. me n ow and add their ver y t and let ou rds ca Simply print these

m. the the kids personalize

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Fold here

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attach your photo

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Mother’s Day

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s ’ r e h t o M Day Happy

attach your photo

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(R) J02523 ic doha pre-opn resdnce adobe mag29.7.5x22 eng.ai

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ABODE

84

fAsHiOn EDitOriAl

Expert advice to find out how to change your style and update your look!

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L oves Bals De Légende

TM

Discover a treasure trove of the most fabulous ensemble of rare stones. Each and every piece of the Bals De LégendeTM collection is unique, highlighting Van Cleef & Arpels commitment to exclusivity and decadent luxury.

Bauta decor ring Le Bal du siecle Marisa Necklace Le Bal proust Bals de Légende is a trademark of Van Cleef & Arpels

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f sHiOn fA

notebook

Spring in your Step

This spring you want to step into a whole different, colorful style. With so much to choose from ABODE is your guide. Don’t discard your floral fantasies just yet, this season the trend continues with a high-octane dose of flower power, plus an equally amped-up version of color blocking, blazers on dresses or sleeveless tops and for a night out you can slip into something colorful and that stands out.

Accessories are always in season, so your free at add some necessary accessories. Something bright, colorful and defines the what you wearing.

t tod’s

Osman

BY ASMA ASHIMI

Ferragamo

swarovski

salvatore Feragamo

salvatore Feragamo

Lacoste

s lvatore Feragamo sa Versus

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notebook

salvatore Feragamo

p ul smith pa

For parties, dinner or an event in the evening, slip in to a colourful dress or skirt nad a top that defines your mood - stay away from black or ther dark colours.

Add a clutch and simple jewelries as accessories.

salvatore Fera

Les sous Bois

gamo Osman Celine

Celine

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f sHiOn fA

editorial

“

When you are a mother, you are never really alone in your thoughts. A mother always has to think twice, once for herself and once for her child.

”

SOPHIA LOREN, WOMEN AND BEAUTY

I

n today’s modern world, motherhood in itself is the toughest job a woman can have…She is in charge of modelling the true values of the society she lives in, she is the center of love and discipline, she involves herself in the community dreaming of sowing a seed to improve her world, and if she works outside the home, she makes the utmost sacrifice of leaving her children every day, dividing her heart between a passion for her work, a commitment to nurturing her children and to contributing financially to her home.

The following pages represent a showcase of the many faces of motherhood…

Photography Jorell Legaspi; Hair & Make - Up Darin Fares @ “LA” Salon Spa Chakra Alfardan; Location Diplomatic Club; Wardrobes & Accessories courtesy of BCBG and Karen Millen

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f sHiOn fA

editorial

d o o h r e h t o M The many faces of

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FASHION

editorial

“

Someone once said, You know you are a mom when you say at least once a day, ‘I’m not cut out for this job’ but you know you wouldn’t trade it for anything in the world

”

Moona Masri – Whitice

Gloria Duran-Renderos (75), Nutritionist, in private practice and owner of Dona Tinita-Natural Foods.

(Salvadorian –American).

Moona Masri Whitice (47), Executive Director of ABODE and QH magazines (American).

Yasmeen (16), 10th grade student at ASD, (American).

“As a grandmother, I see my children and grandchildren projecting themselves as they should be…charming, caring, responsible and contributing to a better world.”

Gloria Renderos They wear (from left to right) On Yasmeen: Multi colored dress, 910 QR; Fushia Shoe, 910 QR. On Gloria: Chiffon Top, 748 QR; Trouser, 748 QR; Black Strapped Shoes, 910 QR On Moona: Pink Top, 423 QR; Trouser, 748 QR All Available at Karen Millen

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“

FASHION

editorial

Enjoy your kids while they are young and still want to spend time with you.

”

Debbie Chang Kalczynski (39) , Volunteer extraordinaire, (Jamaican-American.)

Sarah (17), 11th grade student at ASD (American)

They wear (from left to right) On Debbie: Black Leather Jacket, 2,113 QR; Blue Knit Dress, 910 QR & Blue Black Shoe, 1,008 QR. On Sarah: Tan Leather Jacket, 2,113 QR; Body Hugging Knit Dress, 1,040 QR & Black Strapped Shoe, 1,008 QR. All Available at Karen Millen

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FASHION

editorial

“

Motherhood has an eternal influence. It is the most important of all professions, it requires more knowledge than any other department in human or public affairs!

”

Katia Abboud (35), Head PR, Oryx GTL, (Lebanese-Canadian.)

Zio Saba (8) and Angelica Saba (5)

On Katia: Red Dress, 1064 QR at BCBG & Orange Shoes, 910 QR at Karen Millen

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FASHION

editorial

“

Being a mom is a gift of God .As a working mother I feel that I can fulfill the all requirements such as love, care, protection even providing – all for the sake of her kids. You need to have will power and confidence this will teach the kids commitment and they will benefit from seeing your passion for life and work.

”

Srimani Welagedara (33), Graphic Designer, Sri Lankan. Eeksha Chamodi Ratnaweera(4)

On Srimani: Printed Blue Top, 716 QR at BCBG & Pearl Necklace from Lonestar, 2,520 QR.

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FASHION

editorial

“

Moms are the best historians, for we have witnessed every moment, every snap shot of a child’s life especially in their growing years. Don’t miss a thing and give all love you can without neglecting your work, marriage and yourself!

”

Lanie Fillo-Pana (35), Office Administrator.

Filipino. John Aziel Pana(2)

On Lanie: Blue Studded Dress, 1,710 QR at BCBG; Blue and Black Suede Shoes, 1,008 QR at Karen Millen & Pearl Necklace with Diamond, 2,520 from Lonestar.

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FASHION

editorial

“

Having children is not an obstacle, it is a motivation to be better every day- in life, in marriage, at home and professionally.

�

Yezenia Navarro( 27), Actress and Model. Mexican.

Sons: Dominick (8), Alan( 5) and Viery( 2).

On Yazenia: Green Square Dress, 865 QR; Black Studded Shoe, 1243 QR; Dragon Green Ring, 578 QR, all at BCBG & Pearl Necklace from Lonestar, 2,520 QR.

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FASHION

editorial

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FASHION

editorial

Children

“

…Your children are not your

children. They are the sons and daughters of Life’s longing for itself.

They come through you but not from you, and though they are with you, yet they belong not to you.

You may give them your love but not your thoughts; for they have their own thoughts.

You may house their bodies but not their souls, for their souls dwell in the house of tomorrow, which you cannot visit, not even in your dreams.

You may strive to be like them, but seek not to make them like you. For life goes not backward

”

nor tarries with yesterday…

Khalil Gibran – The Prophet

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FASHION

editorial

This season add personality to your wardrobe with a stylistic blend of yesterday combined with the elegance of today, put together with ineffable naturalness.

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FASHION

editorial

To match

Subtle contrast is the new evolution in luxury.

Super-soft calfskins, suedes, patent/suedes, distressedeffect leather. Unlined leather slippers with ultra-flexible soles: constructions that translate the comfort and lightness of Ferragamo’s icon models are these spring’s must haves shoes, belts and leather accessories.

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pErsOnAl sHOppEr

ask ABODE

looKinG Good

at any aGe 20’s

{ }

ABODE tells you how to update your look!

BY ASMA ASHIMI

swarovski

This season, big, bold and pastel-hued flowers are in bloom, popping up on everything from billowy blouses to straw bags and sandals. This is the time in your life you want to climb the corporate ladder and be taken seriously, but you still want to have fun doing it.

rera Carolina Her

Freida pi p nto

Our past rules about mixing colours still applies, but try with some dark colors like black, navy, gray and brown can all be worn together, as can stripes and patterns. The trick to mixing your patterns is to stay in the same colour family.

Carolina Herrera

p ul smith pa

Carolin

a Herre

ra

Michael Kors swarovski

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Eva Mendes

pErsOnAl sHOppEr

ask ABODE

t tod’s

{ } 30’s

In your 30s, your wardrobe needs to work 24/7 — you should be able to go to the office and look stunning and then go out at night in the exact same thing. The new trend is to have your look take you from 10 am to 10 pm. No accessory changes necessary.

Carolina Herrera

This fall, a shapely floral dress looks good on everyone and goes just about everywhere. Give little extra charm.

Carolina Herrera

salvatore Ferraga

mo

swarovski

Carolina Herrera

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pErsOnAl sHOppEr

ask ABODE

{ } 40’s

demi Moore

The old rule of keeping hemlines below the knee once you hit 40 has been put to shame. Clearly, you don’t want to go too mini, but there’s nothing that looks more modern than a great coat dress in a fancy fabric or coats, blazers and pencil trousers/jeans are really suitable for the day as well.

salvatore Ferragamo

The new shoe style this fall is a high street inspired heel — look for a fall fabric like tweed, or patent leather. The delicate balance of masculine and feminine touches also looks great with suits. p ul smith pa

Carolina Herrera

Carolina Herrera Carolina Herrera

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pErsOnAl sHOppEr

{ } 50’s

ask ABODE

Les sous Bios

If you’re in your 50s, this is the season to invest in a coat that’s anything but boring.

A bright light trench is the perfect attention-grabber.

A wide-leg jean makes this ’70s-inspired look totally 2007, and it would be just as chic on a 20-year-old as it is on a woman in her 50s.Or a lovely dress just below the knee would be suitable for a night out.

Madonna

Carolina Herrera

Carolina Herrera

Carolin

a Herr

era

swarovski

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f sHiOn fA

! r e g n You

beauty feature

look lo

in just 2 hours PHOTOGRAPHY BY: BY: AMARA-PHOTOS, PHOTOGRAPHED

BY CISSY WWW.AMARA-PHOTOS.COM

Glow hair salon’s team of experts show you how to they can knock off years from your appearance tips

ing ngri riD D pE pEr riE AgE: 50’s, prOffEsiOn Full Time Teacher

i nEED A Cut tHAt givEs mE mOrE COnfiDEnCE whAT wAs done?

“Ingrid’s hair lacked movement and shape, so I gave her a rough, choppy razor cut to create a more edgy, relevant look while still keeping it age appropriate.

I also worked in a fringe, which creates a frame for her face,” explained Lucy, the salon’s master stylist.

“The colour was a bit brassy and was begging for some warmth. Brassy colour is not flattering, and washes out skin tone,” added Nemo, colour director at the Glow West Bay location.

Lucy describes the colour process: “We use Schwarzkopf at Glow. - I love the variety, intensity and consistency of the colour range. We utilized the latest techniques for colouring- smudging and block colours. We gave Ingrid an infusion of walnut and chocolate tones with a splash of pomegranate. This enhanced her skin tone, giving her a fresh look, and complimenting her lovely hazel eyes and rosy cheeks.”

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(ingriD) Add some bangsDon’t be afraid to have some fun with your hair. A soft fringe (bangs) on the forehead can help hide wrinkles and bring attention to the eyes- a fringe is also amazing for looking younger as it creates the illusion of thickness and fullness in the front of a woman’s hairlinewhere most women tend to lose hair first as hair thins with age. (gABriEllA) Highlight and Frame Your Face. Add a youthful glow to your face with few face-framing highlights.

These highlights do not have to be “blonde”, just a shade or two lighter than your natural hair colour. Highlights attract light, which create a youthful look around your face, and will brighten your complexion.

“Good grief! I can’thapbepylievI choe seit!to be

It’s absolutely fabulous I am so believed I could look so great adventurous! Who would have k I’ll never have blonde wit h such a bright colour? I thin of that show Ten Years hair again! T his reminds me l like I am the lady walking Younger 10 years younger. I fee totally different, younger out of the show looking like a version of herself !

”

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f sHiOn fA

beauty feature

i nEED A CHAngE Of imAgE

gABriElA iusAn AgE: 3o’s prOfEssiOn: Full Time Teacher whAT wAs done?

Gabrila’s hair was long, fine and did not have body. Her long hair was dragging down her facial features. “Her hair desperately needed an injection of sculpted layers and soft texture, which gave her loads more volume, which in turn lifted her features —- we will be able to see those gorgeous cheekbones.” says Lucy.

“I look like a Nemo and Lucy agreed that Gabrila’s movie star!” hair colour was a bit dull “We gave Gabrila’s hair energy and life with a modern, bright fireworks effect of colours: eggplant, tones of mocha and a pop of copper,” revealed Nemo.

rECOmmEnDED prODuCts: Schwarzkopf Bonacure Volume Shampoo and Schwarzkopf Bonacure Spray Conditioner – adds volume and moisture for fine hair.

Both of these products are colour friendly because the products are very low in sulfates, so they will not fade the colour when used on a weekly or daily basis.

Schwarzkopf Thrill Fiber Gum - provides movable, workable texture and separation for a better look.

There is no denying it. Once we are over the age of 35, most of us want to look younger – as our hair plays such a big role in our overall appearance choosing the right cut and colour can give a huge boost to confidence and make us look and feel youthful,”, says Hillary, owner of Glow Salon, “The trick is to find an experienced stylist who focuses on three key factors: your bone structure, hair texture and preferred maintenance level.” Visit Glow salon at www.glowamericansalon.com to find out more information on treatments, tips and to find the location nearest you.

Glow salon has two convenient locations: Salwa Road: 6686-4221, 4468-9945 and West Bay: 6686-4220, 4411-7652

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FASHION

beauty box

BeautySecrets By asma ashimi

Fabulous products and great results! Get gorgeous with these great finds!

DermoViva USA’s serums Living in the Middle East, a region known for its extreme climate, women are perpetually worried about their skin, constantly steering clear of thick residue leaving creams, meant for western climates which do not allow the skin to breathe. Adding life to your skin, DermoViva USA’s serums keep you beautiful inside out. DermoViva USA’s non-sticky serums are lightweight, quick absorbing & deep penetrating leaving you with longlasting softness at your convenience DermoViva USA Skin Serum range, which accepts the challenge of providing women with ideal skin care routines custom-fit for different skin types and concerns. {QR 13/ 200ml}

LA BOHÈME ROUGE ARTIST NATURAL 2 new limited edition shades (Red Coral & Peach Beige) to embellish the lips with a romantic shimmer. Rouge Artist Natural is a moisturising lipstick that colours the lips naturally while enhancing its radiance. {QR 85}

LA BOHÈME AQUA EYES

Ultra-Shine Lip Gloss

Aqua Eyes, the renowned waterproof eye pencil, is now available in a new Matte Dark Brown Shade, named Gypsy to accentuate the eyes and complete the Bohemian Look. {QR 75}

Why should you have to choose between lip care and color, or between soft lips and high gloss?

Sephora has reinvented its UltraShine Lip Gloss using a new design, a new colour range, and a new formula combining ultimate shine and lip care!

Adhesive nail polish zero defects The Sephora adhesive nail polish with printed patterns and ultra easy application. Finally the nail art really easy to apply!

Zero drying time, zero overflow.

Sizes for all nails. Very long hold and 100% brightness! {QR 57}

Ultra-hydrating: “ultra hydrating complex” that helps stimulate synthesis of hyaluronic acid and 50% more moisturization on lips.

Ultra shine: 24 colours available in 3 finishes: Reflex: multi-dimensional shine with holographic shimmer particles Shimmery: soft, shimmery shine Shiny: shimmer particle-free for a super-slick look. {QR 73}

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FASHION

beauty box

The iconic Sephora bag The “mini” size is a cute mini Sephora bag to take with you everywhere, with its 9 eye shadows, its 4 lipstick and its blush. The “medium” size, with its 35 eye shadows, its range of 12 glosses and its 6 blushes, is a must have to create every make-up look! Finally, this edition’s large size, with its range of 183 colors and its 4 brushes, provides you an infinite choice of colors and possibilities of looks! {QR 300}

Dabur Amla hair oil

Scandaleyes’d.

Giant luscious lashes are now easy thanks to a brand new chunky brush and innovative formula that reaches every… last…lash. Even the weediest, teeniest lashes get Scandaleyes’d.

The outrageously scandalous new lash plumping mascara from Rimmel London.

Scandal’eyes Mascara features a unique combination of a Max Density brush with a triple collagen and keratin formula for up to 12 x more volume. Discover lashes you never though you had!

A special blend of natural oils and the goodness of Vitamin E, Dabur Amla Hair oil nourishes hair by replenishing the natural oils of the scalp and also helps protect hair from the harmful UV rays from Sun, thereby aiding the prevention of dull and brittle hair.

Dabur Amla has continuously evolved to offer innovative solutions and the same trusted hair nourishment for different hair problems: Amla Gold Hair Oil, Amla Jasmine Hair Oil, Amla Anti Dandruff Hair Oil, Amla Cooling Hair Oil. {QR 8.5/ 200ml}

Available in Black, Brown and Extreme Black {QR 40}

LA BOHÈME EYESHADOW PALETTE 6 new versatile limited edition eyeshadow shades in a new baked formula for a wet & dry application.

• For a luminous and natural result, eyeshadow to be applied with a dry Sponge Applicator • For more intense colour and finish, eyeshadow to be applied with a moistened Sponge Applicator

{QR 155}

eye pencil Rich, shimmery color in a long-wear, jumbo eye pencil formula that can be used as an eyeliner or blended out to an eye shadow.

Long-wear formula: Water resistant, Heat resistant, Humidity Resistant, stays put for 12 hours. Draws a line (thick or thin) along the eye in one step. Recommendation for use: Draw a line from the inner corner to the outer corner of upper and lower lid. For a more dramatic effect: apply all over the eyelid. Pencil may be blended with fingers or a brush to spread colour all over the eyelid. {QR 63}

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120

ABODE

lifEstylE trAvEl

Iceland: Go Search Explore!

Be Your Best

ABOdE offers a guide to unique travel destinations, eating secrets and creative workouts!

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feature

danielle Maynard-duttenhofer

DAniEllE mAynArDDuttEnHOfEr Danielle Maynard-Duttenhofer is the co-founder and director of Global Women Qatar, an employment agency that offers recruitment services for women who reside in Qatar.

Women in our talent pool come from different educational backgrounds and different nationalities, local, regional and international.

Global Women Qatar was established in January 2012 as Qatar’s first employment agency to focus exclusively on the recruitment of women who already reside in Qatar. We are a very dynamic, rapidly growing employment agency with both local and expatriate women in our database. Our candidates come from different educational backgrounds with a variety of qualifications and skills.

For more information please contact Danielle Duttenhofer at info@globalwomenqatar.com

To more information please contact Danielle Duttenhofer or Elsbeth Blekkenhorst at info@globalwomenqatar.com

Working Women in Qatar:

Aiming for Work/Life Balance

BY DANIELLE MAYNARD A AYNARD -DUTTENHOFER

As women increasingly take on the demands of work outside the home, we talk more and more about work/life balance, but what does this term actually mean? The short answer is it can mean different things to different people, and different things to the same person at various points in their career.

B

alance doesn’t necessarily mean a certain fixed ratio of work and play hours. It’s really a matter of knowing what’s important to you at any given time, because your priorities are going to change over the course of your career.

If a new associate’s priority is to get recognition at work, for example, she can and should be realistic about what that will require. In order to achieve an optimal work/life balance, good work performance is critical, especially at a career’s start.

If you really want to be there for the long haul, have good opportunities presented to you, be able to achieve balance over time and move around to get a broad experience, performing well is essential and helps give you leverage.

Yet there are many examples in today’s competitive world where that perfect balance between work and personal life is very difficult to achieve because of the work goals and environment: think of a law firm, for example. The workload and demands of law are well known to people entering the profession, and for many, it’s an investment they are willing to make at the expense of other areas of their life.

Some women decide to start their own companies with the belief this is the best way to create more flexibility in their daily schedules. The challenge here is you may find you are “on” 24/7, especially when you are starting out. Having maximum responsibility also could also mean you may never really go “home”.

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Be certain you embark on the path of entrepreneurship for the right reasons: work/life balance challenges are likely to arise when you’re not fully aware of the commitment you’re making to a particular venture, or if you start something without knowing where it fits in the broader picture. Managing your schedule is a critical skill to achieve a satisfying work/ life balance. When you are unclear about your priorities and goals, it’s hard to know where to aim your time and energy.

Scheduling your time in accordance with your priorities helps you put a barrier around the things you need to protect and also be flexible when time allows.

Where do you stand with respect to work/ life balance right now? If reliable nonwork time and devotion to family are top priorities, you may want to work for an organization that shares those values: respect for employees’ personal lives, recognition of the importance of personal time and the chance for a good mentoring program—these could be found at a good women’s organization, a well-established non-profit or a corporation with welldefined and progressive human resource policies.

feature

A good work/life bAlAnce for women is also effected by the culture and policies of where we live. In Qatar’s National development strategy plan for 2011-2016 there are measures mentioned to help women balance work/life responsibilities such as: • The availability of high-quality, affordable and accessible childcare.

• new legislation that will set minimum standards for nurseries and kindergartens and ensure proper staff qualifications.

• The adoption of more family friendly work measures such as flextime, part-time and special leave, building on best practices from other countries.

In addition, the work-life balance for women will be improved as other National Development Strategy 2011– 2016 family cohesion outcomes are achieved, such as programs to raise awareness on shared responsibility among family members.

Balancing our work with other important aspects of our lives helps reduce stress, allows us to focus and retain our energy, and contributes to improved health, happiness and productivity. For some working women, full-time employment can allow for an acceptable balance, but for others part-time or flexible hours work better. Fortunately, more and more companies are aware that women are an important asset and that supporting their work/life balance is of great benefit to their business goals, the community and the country’s economy. •

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column

Women

in the Workplace

BY LAUREN PENNY

Lauren Penny

lauren penny is CEO of Art of Abundant living, offering corporate consultancy services in Employee Engagement, wellness programs & Health Coaching.

Ask lAuren your corporATe living quesTions Q: My colleague is male and has expresses a lot of attitude, how do I compete with this?

A: Women often fall into this trap of competing with men of giving “attitude” as its seen to get results.

Mixing up the view that being cold and harsh will get you to the top however sadly it can cause a negative popularity status which is actually the view of both a attitude male and female.

Q: Is being feminine in the office going to be seen as weak?

A: Femininity is not a weak, feminine means being a friend to your husband or partner, a nurturer and a best friend to all of your girlfriends. Honouring ones’ femininity can mean setting boundaries and not working during certain periods of the day so you can actively fulfill other areas of your life such as picking up your kids, making dinner, seeing a friend and putting the kids to bed. You can then re-focus on your work with a peace of mind.

As women’s involvement in the workforce has evolved, today’s challenge is how to remain feminine in an ever-demanding and competitive work environment.

o

ver the past fifty years, management evolved as a result of women’s increasing involvement in — and impact on — the workplace. Despite sweeping changes in some companies around the world, some views around gender roles still persist and can cause confusion for women who want to get ahead in their careers.

In the late 90s, for example, it was thought that both men and women expected a successful middle manager to hold traits of objectivity, aggressiveness, forcefulness, ambition and a competitive spirit, which are commonly perceived as masculine energies.

Requiring such traits for success and advancement, has left many women caught in a double-bind, where their attempt at a more ‘masculine’ communication style is often deemed as abrasive and offensive. On the flip side, a feminine communication style in a corporate environment can be deemed as weak. It is no wonder that women are confused in believing that they must act like men to succeed: the default mental image of a leader is still male. Work roles to this day are still designed to represent a male workforce than adopting new modern workplace designed roles accommodating and accepting the factors impacted by the women. To climb the corporate ladder they have copied traditional male behaviour. Now, with their new “success”

many women feel dissatisfied, restless, and ultimately unfulfilled.

Looking at typical roles, it can also be seen that men like to work autonomously, act assertively, focus on work tasks and display ambition, while women are seen as people-oriented: representing empathy, emotion and interpersonal orientation.

Women have historically been stereotyped as interpersonally sensitive and devoted to others, so they may feel stuck or lost when trying to climb the corporate ladder while attempting to remain feminine under the default view of a manager. Most male managers still have no idea today’s corporate culture is set by male norms when look at male mindsets, policy and processes.

The paradox is women are expected to be nurturing, but are seen as ineffective if they are too feminine. Women are expected to be strong, but tend to be labelled as strident or abrasive when acting as leaders. Often women in leadership positions have to choose between “being liked but not respected or respected but not liked”. Sometimes it feels like women just can’t win.

There is a massive disconnect between our current educational system that is now producing 60% female graduates compared with the business world that is still figuring out how to manage this talent pool.

»You can write to Lauren with questions regarding corporate living. Questions will be selected for the next publication with your permission.

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column

Develop your individual brand Be true to yourself

Don’t be afraid

Dress professionally

Fulfill your managerial role Ask for flexibility so how does one navigate this?

Be true to Yourself: Be you, you are the best you. Don’t be someone else to impersonate – only you can be the best you.

Dress professionallY: An employer’s role is to ensure their employees are professionally dressed.

Whether this is heels or no heels, stockings or no stockings, skirts or trousers – dress as you would to reflect your personality within the organization’s dress policy.

Don’t be scared to embrace your femininity without moving to the misconception that feminine work- wear has to be spiked heels or short skirts – which can harm a women’s professionalism. Dressing smart is the key.

Develop Your inDiviDual BranD: Embrace the aspects of fashion that enhance your appearance and level of confidence. Your dress contributes to people’s impression of you, your individual brand.

fulfill Your managerial role: A manager is to reflect certain traits, so don’t be afraid that these are

Juggle your roles as needed

either masculine or feminine. Take the stand and perform the role.

Don’t Be afraiD: You don’t have to hide your femininity, it is fine to show grace, warmth and kindness in the workplace while successfully carrying out your managerial or leadership role.

view of women in the workforce, and characteristics of the workplace itself, regardless of the traditional masculine or feminine traits. There is still a long way to go yet.

So go forth and conquer ladies, celebrate International Women’s Day! •

Juggle Your roles as neeDeD: As women, we often play several roles – the mother, the friend, the colleague and the boss. Be authentic to the demands of each role.

ask for flexiBilitY: work roles traditionally held by men were about working 9 to 5 with as little outside impact as possible. Today women often juggle being a mother and spend a higher percentage of time tending to home life than men. Raise at your workplace the modern policy of “work from home”, “part-time”, “and flexi-time” so as to accommodate the additional roles which women play, whilst continuing to perform your work role.

SuCCESS TIP OF MONTH Allow your woman’s qualities speak for your work. Not the clothing you wear or the hairstyle. Your work ethic, qualities, abilities and ideals are enough to earn the necessary respect and confidence you require.

You can portray your femininity in an appropriate way to be a powerful presence in the workplace. And you don’t have to go it alone – it’s really a question for society to modernize the

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health

Mamma Mia! DONIA IA KOBROSLY, BROSLY FITNESS AND HEALTH SPECIALIST AT GUERLAIN ALFARDAN SPA. BROSLY,

Whether you’re already a mom or planning one becoming one, it’s important to be prepared physically, mentally and emotionally to give birth to a full term, healthy baby.

G

iving birth is one of the most amazing and unforgettable moments in life. When family planning, it’s important to do an initial health examination three months before conception to examine all maternal health factors and assess your nutritional status. You should modify your lifestyle to a healthy one, eliminating all alcohol, caffeine, medication, and excessive supplement doses in consultation with your doctor.

Your body goes through a lot of change during pregnancy. Many of these changes take place without you even being aware of them, while others may be more difficult to deal with. All pregnant women gain weight, which is normal and desirable.

Weight gain can vary greatly from one woman to another and depends on your weight before pregnancy. In general, pregnancy weight gain for the average woman is between 11.4- 15.9 kg over nine months.

nutritiOnAl COnCErns: Being pregnant exposes you to increased risk for folic acid, iron, and calcium deficiencies. Adequate folate supplements are critical before and during the first four weeks of pregnancy.

FoliC ACid reduces the chance of the baby suffering from birth defects such as neural tube defects (which encompass malformations of the spinal cord and brain). Food sources of folic acid include beans, peas, orange juice, green leafy vegetables and fortified cereals. iron is an essential element in all cells of the body. During pregnancy maternal blood volume increases 20-30%, thus increasing the body’s need from 18 to 27 g/day during pregnancy. Iron deficiency increases risk of maternal and infant death, pre-term delivery and low birthweight babies. Iron-rich foods are meat,

fish, poultry, eggs, organ meats, peas and beans, dried fruits, whole grain and enriched cereals.

CAlCiuM absorption from food increases during pregnancy and excretion in the urine increases also. Inadequate intake may lead to maternal blood pressure problems, decreased bone mineralization and decreased breast-milk calcium concentration. Your baby’s bones and teeth can’t be formed without calcium.

Dietary sources are milk, yogurt, cheese, fortified orange juice, broccoli, and canned salmon. viTAMin d supports fetal growth and in addition to calcium contributes to the development of bones and teeth. viTAMin A avoid excessive intake (x10) since it leads to fetal abnormalities.

Eating healthy while pregnant will contribute to a smooth pregnancy, healthy growth and development of your baby and will improve the overall status of your health.

gOOD prEgnAnCy DiEt • Provide sufficient calories to support appropriate rates of weight gain.

• Follow the My Plate food group recommendations.

• Incorporate all essential nutrients at the recommended levels of intake in your diet (with the possible exception of iron) • Include 400 mg of folic acid daily.

• Eat ample dietary fibres.

• Consume least 5 cups of fruits and vegetables per day.

• Drink 10 cups of fluid daily • Include salt to “taste” • Exclude alcohol and limit coffee intake to a maximum of three cups a day

EAt rEgulA impOrtAnt!rly – it’s Your baby need s you to feed it.

Don’t go for lo ng periods wi thout eating. Eating regularly mea ns three meals a day, with snac ks between mea ls. This allows yo u to get all the nu trients you ne ed during pregna ncy.

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COmmOn HEAltH prOBlEms During prEgnAnCy •

• • • •

• • • • • • • • • • • •

During your pregnancy you may face nausea, vomiting, constipation, and heartburn.

Strategies for managing nausea and vomiting : Eat smaller quantities and eat more often (light meals and snacks).

Avoid strong smells and food textures A that bother you.

Do not drink while eating or when you feel nauseous. It’s better to drink between meals.

Eat something light before you get up in the morning, such as crackers.

Take your time getting out of bed T

Be careful concerning foodborne illness Whether we like it or not, germs are part of life. Water and food can contain germs in the form of viruses, bacteria and parasites.

The following tips will help you reduce the risk of food-related infection.

• •

• • •

Wash your hands well before touching food.

Cook meat, poultry, eggs, fish and seafood completely. Raw and highly carnivorous fish should be avoided.

Choose pasteurized milk, fruit juice, cheese and dairy products.

Peel or thoroughly wash raw fruit and vegetables.

Strategies for managing heartburn: Ingest small meals frequently Do not go to bed with a full stomach Sleep in an upright position Avoid food that seem to make your A heartburn worse Wear loose fitting clothes.

In conclusion, taking care of your body and health during pregnancy will result in healthy babies. Eat nutritious foods, exercise and take every precaution necessary.

(Sourced from ‘Nutrition Through the Life Cycle’ by Judith Brown.)

Strategies for managing Constipation: Increase fluid and fibre intake to reduce constipation Laxative pills are not recommended.

BEnEfits Of ExErCisE During prEgnAnCy

t king CArE tA Alcohol leads to fetal alcohol syndromes (mental retardation, poor growth, facial defects).

Consult your physician about certain medications.

Helps reduce backaches, constipation, bloating and swelling May help prevent or treat gestational diabetes Increases energy, improves mood and sleep Improves your posture, promotes muscle tone, strength and endurance.

Acceptable: Walking, dancing, biking, swimming and yoga.

health

Avoid: Skiing, scuba diving, trampoline and contact sports.

wArning signs tO stOp ExErCisE: Unusual bleeding, stomach pains, decreased fetal movement Dizziness or feeling faint, increased shortness of breath Chest pain, headache, muscle weakness, calf pain or swelling (University of Pennsylvania School of Science 2007)

ArE yOu wOrriED ABOut yOur pOst-BABy BElly?

No need to wear an abdominal belt or feel embarrassed any more -- Technoshape has the answer. You can call and book a free trial at Alfardan Spa one month after your normal delivery and three months after your C-section.

TechnoShape concentrates on those who store excess fat on their mid-riff, stomach and waist areas. By simultaneously applying advanced and patented Pressure Pause Therapy (PPT) to the mid-riff with gentle exercise, TechnoShape manipulates the blood circulation and ensures accelerated, targeted fat burn.

Results include a flatter stomach, slimmer waist, firmer skin. With TechnoShape your body shape can be transformed.

Smoking leads to miscarriage, bleeding, premature birth and low birth-weight, slow physical growth and lower IQ children.

Quit Smoking!

It’s never too late to quit smoking.

It’s a decision that will help the baby at any stage of your pregnancy.

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lifestyle

health

Calcium

An Element Of Life

By gloria duran renderos, bsc. mph, nutritionist

Most people associate calcium with milk and dairy products, however, calcium is a silvery white colour metal found abundantly in the ground, ocean and air and not just in dairy products.

Everyone has grown up knowing how important calcium is for bones and teeth but in reality calcium does so much more for us than we realize. The good thing is that you don’t need to drink cow’s milk, cheese or yogurt, to get the calcium your body needs to be healthy.

What is calcium?

Calcium is the 5th most abundant element in seawater, after sodium, chlorine, magnesium and sulphate. It is always found in nature as a compound and it is used in industries such aeronautical, pharmaceutical and in construction. But the greatest wonder is that it is also essential for human life.

Where is it found?

Calcium is found in great amounts in foods such as dairy products, seeds, nuts, and green vegetables because these foods eat and grow in calcium rich soils and the calcium is absorbed throughout their life cycle.

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Why is it essential?

Only 1% of the calcium we eat is required for vascular contraction, dilation, muscle action and nerve impulses. It is also important for some hormonal secretions. The other 99% is stored in the bones and teeth, where it supports their structure, density, strenght, and rigidity.

Calcium Rich Foods: Food

AMounT

CAlCiuM (Mg)

Blackstrap molasses

2 Tbsp

400

Collard greens, cooked

1 cup

357

Tofu, processed with calcium sulfate*

4 ounces

200-330

Calcium-fortified orange juice

8 ounces

300

Soy or Rice milk, commercial, calcium-fortified, plain

8 ounces

200-300

Commercial soy yogurt, plain

6 ounces

80-250

1 cup

249

4 ounces

80-230

Tempeh

1 cup

215

Kale, cooked

1 cup

179

Soybeans, cooked

1 cup

175

Okra, cooked

1 cup

172

Bok Choy, cooked

1 cup

158

Mustard greens, cooked

1 cup

152

Tahini

2 Tbsp

128

Turnip greens, cooked Tofu, processed with nigari*

Broccoli, cooked

1 cup

94

Almonds

1/4 cup

89

Almond butter

2 Tbsp

86

8 ounces

80

Soy milk, commercial, plain

How much calcium do we need?

An average adult male needs about 800-1000 mg. of calcium every day. Children need about 500 mg.

(Equivalent to 2-3 servings per day of calcium rich foods) The need for calcium increases during periods of growth, pregnancy and lactation.

Higher intake of calcium is essential for women after menopause to prevent osteoporosis.

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health CAlCium ABsOrptiOn...

A frAgilE prOpOsitiOn.

Tips for better calcium absorption • Take T calcium rich foods or supplement in small doses of throughout the day.

• Do not eat calcium rich foods with high fiber foods. Certain types of dietary fiber like the fiber found in wheat and oat bran, may interfere with calcium absorption by decreasing transit time (the amount of time it takes for digested foods to move through the intestines), limiting the amount of time during digestion for calcium to be absorbed. Dietary fiber also stimulates the proliferation of bacteria in the gut, which bind calcium and make it less available for absorption. Example: high fiber cereal with milk.

• Exercise 20 to 30 minutes per day or 4 hours a week. Walking and weight bearing exercises are the best for absorption.

• Make it a daily habit to receive 15 minutes of sunshine each day.

• Limit your intake of salt by eating less salty snacks and try not to add salt to your meals. Avoid commercially produced foods with more than 120 milgirams of sodium per serving.

• A high protein diet, limits the amount of calcium available for absorption, so your protein foods should be limited to the right amounts. 60

Grams for women and 75 grams for men unless they have a special condition which requires a higher level of protein.

The human body only absorbs about 30 percent of the calcium from the foods we eat. Absorption can be hindered when a diet is high in salt, protein, excessive smoking, alcohol, caffeine, lack of vitamin d, and sunshine and exercise. Certain prescription drugs such as diuretics, cirticosteroids, anticonvulsants, immunosuppressive medications, anti inflammatory drugs, non steroid asthma medications also inhibit absorption. If you or anyone in the family uses these prescriptions drugs, they should ask their physician to give them a calcium supplement.

• Calcium is absorbed best thru green juices and pureed creamed green veggie soups.

• If you take a calcium supplement, do so with a meal. The acidity of the stomach at the time of a meal prepares the calcium for better absorption.

• Don’t forget mineral water! Pay attention to the calcium content of the mineral water you drink.

Some mineral waters (but not all) are rich in calcium. For example, a liter-sized bottle of mineral water which contains 350 mg/l of calcium would provide one-third of a pre-menopausal woman’s recommended daily intake of calcium.

• Increase your intake of magnesium rich foods which are the forgotten green and yellow vegetables.

Calcium and magnesium work hand in hand to keep our bones strong but flexible.

mAlABsOrptiOn Of CAlCium DEfiCiEnt DiEt mAy lEAD tO tHE fOllOwing: • Cataracts • Colon cancer • High blood pressure • Inflammatory bowel disease • Kidney stones • Polycystic ovarian syndrome • Pregnancy induced hypertension and preeclampsia • Premenstrual syndrome • Frequent bone fractures • Muscle pains and spasms • Tingling and numbness of hands and feet • Growth retardation in children

if yOu ArE A pErsOn wHO is suffEring Of tHE COnDitiOns listED ABOvE, you might suffer from gluten sensitivity or celiac disease. Because gluten is a toxic protein which affects the absorptive capacity of the intestine, you will not be able to absorb calcium, unless you follow a gluten free diet. It takes about two to four years to recover proper functioning of the villi in the intestine. Gluten is the umbrella word to describe the toxic protein s found in wheat, oats, barley and rye.

• Dental problems • Rickets • Osteomalacia and osteoporosis

HEAltH AlErt

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health

Exercising made simple g k EEpin in witH spirit irst ’s f QAtAr

BY ALLAN LLOYD MARTINEZ

nAl nAtiO ts spOr DAy

Ideas to make exercising convenient, fast and easy

retching (1) sttretching dyynamic st d

Let’s admit it. Most of us procrastinate when it comes to working out and the story is usually the same: either we are too tired or we have no time. But what if you had a beginner’s workout routine you could do using various items that are available at home? This makes your workout convenient, fast and easy. The following routine takes about 15-20 minutes per day and is easy to fit into your schedule at least three times per week. Unless otherwise indicated, do 15-20 repetitions of slow, controlled movements and one to three sets of each exercise, with rest intervals of no longer than 30 seconds. Be sure to exhale when there’s an effort for breathing. Pictured are few of the nine exercises you can try at home.

Dynamic Stretching: stArt yOur wOrkOut By wArming up yOur musClEs witH tHE fOllOwing strEtCHEs: 1. SPREAD YOUR ARMS OUT TO EACH SIDE. Move your arms in circles going forward, for 20 repetitions.

Then do the reverse for 20 reps. 2. STARTING T TARTING FROM A T-POSITION AS IN THE PREVIOUS EXERCISE, standing straight with arms stretched out to each side, swing your arms towards to your centre and let one cross over the other in front, alternately overlapping your arms and count for 10 pairs. 3. STRETCH EACH LEG BY SWINGING IT FORWARD AND BACKWARD, MAINTAINING IT STRAIGHT. Do 20 reps for each leg. This movement stretches your hamstring. 4. HOLDING ON TO A STABLE BAR, stand firm on one leg while you swing the other one out to the side and back, for 20 reps. Do the same on the other leg. This stretches your adductors and abductors muscles.

dynamic sstttretching dy retching (2)

s ding Bicep Curl stan

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health

tHE wOrkOut: 1. AFTER THE DYNAMIC STRETCHING, start your workout by doing bodyweight squats, using your dining chair as your limit. Feet hip distance apart, stand in front of a chair and raise both arms forward in front of you for balance. Squat back as if you were going to sit, but stop when you touch the chair and stand straight again.

Abdominal Crunches

2. WORK YOUR CHEST BY DOING REGULAR OR MODIFIED PUSHUPS. This targets your pectoral muscles and helps firm your chest.

3. GET A THICK BATH TOWEL AND PUT IT ON THE FLOOR TO CUSHION YOUR BACK. Do the regular or modified leg raises. Make sure not to arch your lower back. This works your lower abs.

4. WORK OUT YOUR UPPER ABS by doing the abdominal crunches with knees bent and feet flat on the floor.

Lower Ab Workout Crunches

5. WHILE ON THE FLOOR, grab a pair of 1.5 liters of plastic bottled water.

Remain lying on the floor and do a triceps extension. Get a weight that allows you to do 15-20 reps.

6. DO THE SKYDIVER TO WORK OUT YOUR LOWER BACK. Face down flat on the floor and lift your chest and squeeze your lower back.

7. WITH YOUR KNEES AND HANDS ON THE FLOOR. Do the one arm bottled water row. It works out your latissimus dorsi, rhomboids and arms.

w (with bottled water) One Arm row

8. USING THE BOTTLED WATER, do standing bicep curls.

9. WORK YOUR DELTOIDS by doing shoulder presses while standing.

You’ve completed the workout! These regular 15-20 minute sessions will make your muscles stronger, and more toned.

Remember that you’ll get better results when you put more time and effort into your workout. Factors that can affect the results of your fitness goals are your age, type of diet, injuries, and activities of daily living. ver Workout The sskkkyyddiive

For an assessment don’t hesitate to call the Diplomatic Club, Tel: +974-44847451 •

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travel

The Northern Lights in Iceland

lifEstylE

ICELAND

A HEArt-WArMING dEstINAtION!

The temperatures may be chilly, but Iceland is an increasingly hot stop on any traveller’s bucket list. Nitya Shukla describes what makes it so unique.

Opera House, Reykjavik

m

y summer adventure in Iceland had a big plus point to begin with: a genuine 100% born and bred Icelander who ensured that I experience the sights, sounds and the ever changing landscapes of a country that is quickly becoming a top travel destination. Ranked as one of the happiest nations in the world, Iceland is home to the world’s first parliament, a vibrant Viking heritage and the intimidating glacial lagoons of Jökulsárlón, featured in films like James Bond: Die Another Day and Lara Croft: Tomb Raider.

What’s more, if you go between mid-August and November, you can be one of the lucky ones to watch the seasonal ‘Northern Lights’ play a symphony of colours in the sky.

So there I was, standing at the Keflavik airport on a cold July evening waiting for the shuttle that would take me to meet Halla Gunnarsdottir, a writer who works as a political advisor in the government of Iceland. It was thanks to her that I got to see the real faces of the country (including a barbeque hosted by the Minister of Interior Mr Ögmundur Jónasson,) experience their culture (two weddings and a ceremony

accepting me as a an honorary Viking ) and try some of Iceland’s unique culinary treats, including the famous dried shark!

As a former hard core city girl, Iceland offered me quite the lesson in hiking, when camping beside the glacier of Vatnajokull. The pleasure of tucking into big warm chocolate cake after seeing the blue ice bergs in Jökulsárlón amidst arctic temperatures was an experience I could only describe as magical. My culinary experiments included famed delicacies like fermented rotten shark, a mink whale, the puffin and of course Iceland’s famous hot dogs. For a country that has no rail lines, (just like our own Qatar) Iceland is amazingly well connected with planned gas stations and cozy restaurants serving

Hallgrímskirkja, Reykja

vik

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cozy warm coffees and local farmer’s markets, where you will find some of the world’s warmest sweaters and socks.

Haukad alur

ouT & AbouT: reykjAv A ik Av Reykjavik is the heart of Iceland and home to 38 per cent of the country’s population. It’s a charming city brought to life with thriving cafes, innovative museums, beautiful parks, high energy clubs, cozy restaurants, stores with plenty of eclectic street fashion and unique souvenirs (including volcanic ash). In recent years it has become one of the trendiest cities in the world, as Icelanders are obsessed with design, technology, and architecture. Reykjavik is one of the globe’s most expensive cities and yet it has a friendly, village feel about it. It was nice to take a walk every evening and have half the town greet you like an old friend.

Gullfoss

viking villAge: hAFnArFjordur The Viking Village consists of the well known West Nordic Culture House, which exhibits relics from various parts of Iceland, West Nordic countries, Greenland and Faroe Islands. The cultural centre nearby conducts plenty of activities, particularly around the Viking Festival, including dramas, plays, movies and music and dance performances.

The Viking Restaurant nearby is a great place to stop by for a quick bite. Its interior mirrors the insides of a Viking ship and if you are lucky, you might just be serenaded by singers who sing popular folk songs. Should the tourist bug take over, you can participate in a ceremony that accepts you as an honorary member of the Viking community. But be warned, you might have to drink a malt and milk based (non alcoholic) beverage from a dirty little horn to prove that you have the heart of a Viking!

Viking Vill age1 Haf nar fjordur

The golden CirCle Thingvellir, gullFoss And hAukAdAlur The Golden Circle is a popular tourist route in South Iceland, looping out of Reykjavik closer to central Iceland (where most of the sights are) and back to Reykjavik. The three primary stops on the route are Thingvellir, Gullfoss and the geothermally active valley of Haukadalur, which contains the geysers Geysir and Strokkur.

-Thingvellir National Park is a place in Blaskogabyggd (southwestern Iceland), near the peninsula of Reykjanes and the Hengill volcanic area.

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travel Thingvellir

This UNESCO World Heritage site has historical, cultural and geological importance. It is the original site of the longest-running parliament in the world, and it’s also where the North American and European continental shelf plates are being torn apart. It is also home to Thingvallavatn, the largest natural lake in Iceland.

- Gullfoss (Golden Falls): Gullfoss is a special must-watch!

Here you can see the wide Hvita river rush southward.

The average amount of water running over this waterfall is 140 m³/s in the summertime and 80 m³/s in the wintertime. On a sunny day rainbows are formed in the mist clouds from the hammering falls, which makes Gullfoss a very special sight to see.

- Geysir Geothermal Field: The geothermally active valley of Haukadalur, contains the geysers named Geysir and Strokkur. The former has been quiet for some time now, though the Strokkur erupts every 10 to 15 minutes.

Incidentally the original word “geyser” was derived from Geysir! Watch out and stay away from the boiling water.

There are also a lot of other little hot springs nearby. Note there are other good stops in the area including the Kerid volcano crater, Hveragerdi greenhouse village, Skalholt church, and the Nesjavellir geothermal power plant.

soAk in sun: The blue lAgoon s Iceland’s most famous geothermal pool is the country’s top tourist attraction. It might be crowded and expensive but there’s nothing like it in the world. This huge, milky-blue spa is fed by mineral-rich heated seawater from the nearby geothermal plant. Add the silvery towers of the plant, rolling clouds of steam, and people covered in white mud, and you’ll think you are in the twilight zone — in a good way

glACiers: g The Icelandic glaciers are amongst the greatest natural wonders of the world, which no visitor should miss while travelling. Global warming is causing the glaciers to retreat every year, which could cause their complete breakdown in the future. One the benefits of the Icelandic glaciers are that they are easily accessible.

bond sTyle: jökulsárlón Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon is about 400 km from Reykjavik in southeast Iceland, at the roots of Europe’s biggest glacier, Vatnajökull. Vast icebergs break off into the lake and drift around.

The sand and gravel dunes all around are the main breeding grounds of the Great Skua in the northern hemisphere. It’s best to watch these irregular shaped icebergs from close proximity on a boat ride. • Jökulsárlón

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musical notes

are All CDs at available ore egast Virgin M

CD reviews

BY NITYA SHUKLA

COmmOn-t n- HE DrEAmEr, n-t tHE BEliEvEr

fAnfA f rlO-rOOms fillED witH fA ligHt

tHE OvErtOnEs-gOOD Ol’ f sHiOnED lOvE (plAti fA A num EDt) Ati

Chicago based rapper Common hits hard on his ninth album. Which is a great thing considering his cult status had all but disappeared with his 2008 album, Universal Mind Control, which many even called a failed attempt to copy Black Eyes Peas style pop crossover. However, with The Dreamer, Common is ready to shake things up. With lyrics like “My name’s synonymous with prominence, I’m to hiphop what Obama is to politics” from his new comeback single Sweet, he sets the scene. On Ghetto Dreams with his mate Nas, he gives yet another stellar track with sparse piano and horn-laced beats. The soulful Lovin’I Lost is strong reminder of his versatile talents. All in all, a good listen!

A major step forward for this indie pop group from London! The new album incorporates fresh textures into their already eclectic sonic palette. Rooms Filled With Light is the work of a band that has grown increasingly confident incorporating their present repertoire and building further on it. One of the tracks Replicate features more experimental instrumentation as proof! According to their press release available online, the new album promises “new textures” from Fanfarlo “the guitars are now electric instead of acoustic, while synths and samplers have emerged in place of mandolins and glockenspiels.” .

A few years ago nobody would have fathomed that a group of painters and decorators would come out with a platinum edition of their debut album. But that’s how the story goes when this pop group was “overhead” practicing whilst working on a job and subsequently signed to Warner. The ‘Platinum Version’ of debut album Good Ol’ Fashioned Love that has been re-released features three bonus tracks from more familiar and modern artists. Of the three covers (Adele’s Rolling in the Deep, Rihanna’s Only Girl in the World and Madcon’s Beggin’ it’s the cover of Rihanna’s hit that stands out most, with the deep bass voice of Lachie Chapman on lead vocals complementing the higher tones of the four other members as well as the understated backing drums and piano

A triButE tO wHitnEy HOustOn wHA wHitnEy HOustOn tAugHt us wHAt “Whitney Houston was an icon and a once-in-a-lifetime talent who inspired a generation of singers and brought joy to millions of fans around the world. She had a voice of unmatched beauty and power that changed music forever, and she leaves behind an indelible legacy of timeless songs that will never be forgotten. She also was an important member of the Sony Music family who spent her storied recording career with Arista Records. She will be greatly missed. Our deepest condolences go out to her daughter and her entire family.”

(Issued by Sony Music Entertainment )

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books

reader’s Corner

BY NITYA SHUKULA

4 reasons to stay in and curl up, relax and have a cup of tea.

tHE sAt sAtur urD DA Ay y Big tE tEn nt wEDD EDDiing pA pAr rty

wilD sw wA Ans: tH tHr rEE DAugHtErs Of CH CHinA

(No. 1 l a dies’ de T ecT ive ageNcy) by alexa exaN Nder mccall smiTh The twelfth installment of the beloved series (No 1 Ladies’ Detective) returns with the ever popular characters: Precious Ramotswe, Grace Makutsi, Phuti Radiphuti, Violet Sephotho. And like before, the network of plots is woven into those personalities. The story commences with Precious Ramotswe, Botswana’s No. 1 lady detective surrounded with several mysteries. Two cows have been killed at a remote cattle post and a frightened client asks her to investigate the matter. The investigation yields several suspects, including the client. The matters are complicated further when Mma Ramotswe is haunted by visions of dear old van and Grace Makutsi sees this as well. In the meantime, one of Mr. JLB Matekoni’s apprentices may have gotten a girl pregnant and, under pressure to marry her, has run away. Naturally, it is up to Precious to help sort things out. Add to the mix Violet Sephotho’s newly launched run for the Botswana Parliament and a pair of perfect wedding shoes—will wedding bells finally ring for Phuti Radiphuti and Grace Makutsi?

by ju Ng ch a Ng In a powerful personal memoir, author Jung Chang writes the story of three generations in twentieth-century China.

What unfolds is an engrossing record of Mao’s impact on China, an unusual window on the female experience in the modern world, and an inspiring tale of courage and love.

Chang recounts the life of her grandmother as a war lord’s concubine, to the struggles of her mother as a young idealist communist and her own journey as a Red Guard while China evolved from a precommunist to the revolutionary and communist china. Readers will love the vivid portrayals of historic facts that she blends seamlessly in her fabric of her own family history with intensely personal remembrances. Wild Swans is already a bestselling classic in thirty languages, with more than ten million copies sold.

my lifE in DOH DOHA A: BEtwEE EEn n DrEA DrEAm m AnD rEA EAllity by r achel hajar, m.d d.

Inspired by the true events of her life, a new Qatar emerges from the point of view of a westerner married to a Qatari cardiologist. Rachel is a cardiologist and the Director of Non-Invasive Cardiology at Hamad Medical Corporation in Doha, Qatar. She is married to a Qatari cardiologist, the former Minister of Health in Qatar. Her book talks about her experience of having been raised a Catholic, only to leave that world behind once she embraces her husband’s world of faith, manners and traditions to live in Doha. Rachel describes her reactions when she first encounters the black veil as well as meeting her in-laws. In her accounts one finds thoughtful descriptions of the colourful city market, Qatari customs and Islamic holidays, and the history and literature surrounding the incense, the Islamic call to prayer, festivals as well as personal anecdotes.

A touching account of love amid culture clash in the Arab Islamic society, which has now become home to so many expats.

tHE nE nEx xt Alw AlwA Ay A ys: (The iNN aT aT booNsboro Trilogy volume 1)

by Nora rob ober erTTs The Next Always by Nora Roberts is inspired by the inn Boonsboro, owned by the author and located in the real town of Boonsboro, Maryland.

This historic inn has endured war, peace, change of hands, rumoured haunting and now it’s getting a major face lift by the Montgomery brothers and their eccentric mother. Beckett Montgomery serves as the architect for this project when the love of his life returns to the old town. Roberts uses the real-life setting of the famous Boonsboro inn to create a fascinating fictional story of a small town, close relationships of family and friends and her favourite genre: romance. Created as a trilogy, the Next Always will be followed by the Last Boyfriend and The Perfect Home.

s are All book e at availabl ore egast Virgin M

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automotive

It’s Loud.

It’s Smoky.

It’s Fast!

BY ALEX COREY OREY PHOTOGRAPHY NOEL

It’s a sunny day here at the Qatar Motor Show as I walk onto the track that has been set up for the Red Bull Car Park Drift event. The athletes are relaxing under the quintessential tent. They’re eating and are remarkably cool for people who are about to defy gravity, and at some points, it seems, the very foundations of physics. In addition to the drifting athletes (including Abdo Feghali), there is a stunt motorcyclist and three motocross bikers.

T

he event is an exciting display of motor sports. Chris Pfeifer puts on a dazzlingly display of tricks on his BMW. My mind almost cannot compute what it is seeing. It’s as if the law of physics decided to take a break for a little while. He is on the front of the bike, or on the side, all while the bike only has one wheel touching the ground. Then the motocross boys come out to play.

Despite the windy conditions, they soar and fly through the air as doing a back flip 15 metres in the air was just another normal Saturday afternoon for everyone.

It is spectacular to watch, but that’s all you can do...watch. Watch and try to imagine what soaring upside down through the air is like, or marvel at the balance required to manipulate a motorcycle in seemingly impossible ways. But many of us are also watching in anticipation of something going wrong, fearing for the safety of the athletes. It is here that the other part of this event differs drastically from the rest.

It is here that drifting becomes a unique event in motor sports.

“Drifting is great because the fans can live the experience live with us, right in the car” explains Abdo Feghali, the grandfather of drifting here in the Middle East.

I’m here on this day to experience just that. In a few moments, I am going to be strapped into Abdo’s modified car to feel the excitement

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racing and drifting has only increased.

When asked what three items he would take to a desert island, his first response, without any hesitation is his car. Then his family, and thirdly lots of Red Bull (maybe his car runs on the stuff?!) When asked to describe himself, he responds “cool, enjoyable, drifting.” I feel that sums him up pretty well actually! So now it is time for me to actually climb into the car, get strapped in and go for a ride. The crowd has been steadily growing for the past two hours and the stunt and moto cross bikes have been encouraging a steady growth in numbers. It’s time for the drifting to immerse some fans into the front seat of the excitement.

of acceleration and weight shifting at high speeds. Abdo looks at me with a sly grin and says, “You’re gonna (sic) love it!” It is clear that Abdo loves anything that has smoke, loud engines and wheels.

The passion of drifting started back in 1998, when he became a rally driver. Well actually he was born with it; it’s literally in his blood. His father was a racecar driver in Lebanon. Though drifting started in Japan in the 70s, Abdo discovered it in 1998 because it matched his rally car driving style. It took a decade of “going to places that sold really used tires, using old tires from rally races” and pretty much doing anything he could to get his hands on some rubber before he finally made it in 2008. He was able to convince Red

Bull to take a chance on the car park drift event. Evidently it was successful and has continued to grow in the region. So much so, that Chevrolet is now one of the regional sponsors.

Now I have a confession to make. I’m generally a nervous passenger. I am not usually a control freak in the rest of life, but when it comes to things that could hurt and/or kill me, I like to be in control of them. Trust does not come easy. I’m nervous as we peel out of the small tent at a high speed as we are not even on the course yet! Abdo enters the course at full throttle and immediately starts taking corners and drifting around the course.

It is surreal. It is evident that he is a very talented driver and is in control of his car at all times. It is also obvious that he knows where every inch of his car is at any time and has a great understanding of how to slide his car around, almost seeing into the future knowing where, when and what part of his car will be covering a particular piece of ground at a particular moment in time again and again and again. I have the sensation that I am floating in a two dimensional world as we swing about obstacles or cruise past the crowd at speeds upwards of 125 km/ hr, moving perpendicularly though the course.

Abdo explains why he felt it was an important event to hold, saying, “There are lots of motor sports fans here in the Middle East, rallying, hill climbing and circuit racing that really costs too much money. But with drifting, you can do it with your own car, in a parking lot, with just some small safety measurements, and you get to be close to the fans.” It is a sport that anyone (who is willing to go through a truckload of tires) can do on their own. If anything, his passion for

Somehow through a combination of steering, accelerating and braking, he is able to switch almost instantaneously from rubber tires gripping asphalt to accelerate, to glass wheels on ice to swing the back end of the car into the next turn. The world passes by us as we are pinned into our seats as our bodies are experiencing an almost constantly dynamic momentum shift. It turns out Abdo was right…I do love it! How could I not? It was loud. It was smoky. It was fast. It was drifting.•

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LIFESTYLE

technology

«TECH SUPPORT» What’s HOT this month

We continue to see an exciting line up of Smartphones this month. Here’s a peek at what to expect:

Z We continue to see an exciting line-up of smart-phones this month. Here’s a peek at what to expect: Samsung Galaxy Nexus: One of the most talked about smart-phones in recent months is about to launch at Vodafone. The Google Nexus is the first Android smart-phone to run the latest 4.0 operating system, known as ‘Ice Cream Sandwich’. Designed by Google from top to bottom, this smart-phone is at the forefront of innovation. Unlike its Nexus S predecessor, which was essentially a re-branded Samsung Galaxy S, the Samsung Galaxy Nexus is a completely different device from the current flagship of the company, the Galaxy S II. The latest Google phone sports a different processor and chip-set, it retains the impressive curve display that is now a signature feature of the Nexus range and is completely free of hardware buttons. However, the key difference is in the software. Simple layouts with subtle animations and delightful flourishes make everything feel alive. Gone are lists of text with icons, replaced by big pictures and bold text, just like a magazine. Instead of boring button presses, find your way around with fun, consistent gestures. The home screen, web browser, email and everything in between have been re-thought and re-designed to make Android simple, beautiful, and beyond smart. Interact with your favourite apps right from your home screen with new types of widgets. Re-size and arrange them to suit yourself.

And this is just the tip of the iceberg. The all new Samsung Galaxy Nexus is coming to Vodafone very soon. Y

Z Samsung Galaxy: Samsung Galaxy Y: Vodafone Qatar has recently launched another affordable smart-phone, the Samsung Galaxy Y. This value-packed smart-phone comes with a great set of features, including a 2- mega-pixel camera with video capabilities and WiFi hotspot functionality, which enables you to share your internet connection on the go with your friends. Plus with HSDPA 7.2 Mbps data speeds, you get ultra fast internet access to all of your favorite internet sites. Coming from the hugely successful Samsung Galaxy range, the Galaxy Y runs on Google’s Android Gingerbread, giving you access to all the latest Apps via Google’s Marketplace. The all new Samsung Galaxy Y is now available at all Vodafone’s retail stores and Vodafone’s online store HYPERLINK “http://www.vodafone.com.qa”www.vodafone.com.qa .

The Galaxy Y retails for only QR499, which includes a FREE Welcome Pack, RED 20 Scratch Card and 200MB data plan.

Visit our website for more details: HYPERLINK “http://www.vodafone.com.qa”www. vodafone.com.qa Y

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4416-5133

Pearl Lounge Club

Doha Marriott Hotel

4429-8444

The Deal

Al Sadd, Main Road

4442-4043

Tod’s

Villaggio Mall

4413-4937

Education Virginia Commonwealth University Qatar

Education City

4402-0555

Furniture / Interior Design Articles

Royal Plaza, 2nd Floor

4413-1188

Forum Design

Al Hilal

4456-8716

Entertainment

Ligne Roset/ DEDON

Ray’s Reef

Royal Plaza, 2nd floor

4413-1122

4431-1843

The Cinema Palace

Royal Plaza, 2nd floor

4432-0938

Hotels & Restaurants

Souq Najed, Salwa Road

Al Bustan

Museum Park St.

4435-2227

Fashion / Retail

Al Seef

Al Aaliya Street

4433-2222

Chowking

Salwa Road

44371212

Aida

Royal Plaza, 2nd Floor

Aldo

Hyatt Plaza

4468-2920

Al Saad St.

44314411

The Mall

4467-8896

Doha Marriott Hotel

Ras Abu Aboud St.

4429-8888

Villaggio Mall

4450-7391

Four Seasons

Corniche Road

4494-8888

Aldo Accessories

City Centre

4411-5289

Grand Hyatt

West Bay Lagoon

4448-1234

Bench

Hyatt Plaza

4469-0476

Grand Regency

Al Sadd

4434-3333

Berluti

Villaggio Mall, VIP section

4416-1860

InterContinental

Al Istiqlal Rd,

4484-4444

Change

Royal Plaza, 1st floor

4413-1177

West Bay Lagoon

Titto Bluni

Royal Plaza, 1st floor

4413-1144

Kempinski Residences

Celine

Villaggio Mall, VIP section

4413-4763

& Suites

West Bay Doha

4405-3333

4413-4767

La Cigale Hotel

60 Suhaim Bin Hamad St.

4428-8888

4413-1188

CH By Carolina Herrera

Villaggio Mall, VIP section

4413-4748

Mercure Grand

Musherib Street

4446-2222

Charles & Keith

City Centre

4493-4437

Merweb Central Doha

Ras Abu Abboud St.

4409-4444

Hyatt Plaza

4469-0413

Milennium Hotel

Jawaan Street, Al Sadd

4424-7777

Dune

Landmark Mall

4487-8158

Mövenpick Hotel

Corniche Road

3329-1111

Ermenegildo Zegna

Villaggio Mall VIP section

4413-4765

Mövenpick Tower & Suites Corniche Road

4496-6600

Events

Royal Plaza, 1st floor

4413-1155

Nando’s

Salwa Rd, Al Sadd

4444-2345

Garage

City Centre

4483-9324

Hyatt Plaza

4450-5853

Geox

Villaggio Mall

4450-7194

City Centre

4417-5756

130 ABODE march 2012

ABODE March.indd 130

2/27/12 1:55 PM

ADOBE

Oryx Rotana

Al Nahda School St.,

Airport Rd.

Ramada Encore

Ahmed Bin Moh’d St.

4444-3444

Ramada Plaza

C Ring Rd.

4428-1555

Ritz-Carlton

West Bay Lagoon

4484-8000

Sealine Beach Resort

Mesaieed Umm Said

4476-5299

Sharq Village & Spa

Ras Abu Abboud St.

4425-6666

Sheraton Doha

Corniche Road

4485-4444

Sizzling Hot Pot

Holiday Villa Hotel

4411-5225

W Doha

West Bay Lagoon

4453-5353

4402-3333

Hospitals ∕ Emergency

Medical Doha Dental Bilal Complex, Al Saad 4431-7766

Real Estate Ahmed Hassan Bilal

Police & Fire Department 999 Doha Clinic Hospital 4438-4333 Hotline 4435-5999 Al Ahli Hospital 4498-8888 Doha Dental 4431-7766 Hamad General Hospital 4439-2222 Rumailah Hospital 4439-2948 Pediatric Emergency Centre 4439-2948 Qatar Foundation for Child 4466-6671 to 73 & Protection Hotline Get noticed in the pages of ABODE. Email us at df@printcomqatar.com for your free listing today!

Ahmed Bin Moh’d,

Trading & Construction Co. Bin Thani St LS: Keep Moving

resource

4442-8877.

Tornado Tower, Ground Floor 4491-3222

Spa and Wellbeing The Spa

Doha Marriott Hotel

4429-8520

Plastic Surgicentre

149 Najma St., Al Hilal

4466-2260

ABODE March.indd 131

2/27/12 1:55 PM

ABO BODE

horoscope

Scorpio (Oct 23th-Nov 21st)

Your March Stars

BY MILINA

Aries (March 21st-April 20th)

» This month there is a lot going on in your life. The situation may become complicated if you are too impulsive.

Patience will lead to more success. After the New Moon in your sign on 22 March a new period in your life will begin. Hard work is paying off, and a sudden release of tension will help to clear the way.

Taurus (April 21st-May 20th)

» With Venus in your sign from 5 March, you will experience a sense of pleasure. A good time to be a bit indulgent, and you will feel more appreciated. Stretching your resources will allow you to have fun and still get your work done. Clean up unfinished business. Real change may be ignited in an instant, but takes time to be processed.

Gemini (May 21st-June 20th)

With Mercury, Mars and Saturn retrograde this month your patience will be tested. In which area of your life do you have to slow down?

Leo (July 21st-August 22nd)

» Patience is very important this month.

The obstacles you have to overcome will eventually help you to be stronger. Continue with things that you have already started, and stand up for what you believe in. Manage your negativity and be kind to yourself and others. At work, a promotion is possible. Your self-confidence will be enhanced.

» You will feel incredibly impatient and excited at the beginning of this month.

Personal responsibilities may weigh you down at times. From 12 March delays may occur, but they may give you time to get your house in order. After 22 March a new cycle will begin. You may be surprised that your enthusiasm doesn’t pay off, but hard work will lead to success.

Virgo (August 23th-Sept 22nd)

Cancer (June 21st-July 20th)

Libra (Sept 23th-Oct 22nd)

» After Mercury turns retrograde on 12 March it is a good time to re-examine your life and work. You could be feeling restless.

Unexpected changes in your life are possible after the New Moon on 22 March.

Relationships can be revived and your enthusiasm will help you to feel inspired, professionally and with colleagues.

» This month you will be moving faster than usual. Complications with details and communication are possible after 12 March. Tying up loose ends and improving inefficient systems will solve your problems.

Explosive discussions and crazy ideas will make you feel restless and nervous. Make sure you get enough quiet time.

» Circumstances beyond your control may delay personal and professional progress.

Explanations can be misunderstood, and there may be frustrations in relationships.

After 13 March it is an excellent time to make decisions about the path you want to take. Even if you have to be patient, success will come your way.

» Losses can be turned into gains and empower you. Your daily routine may be interrupted this month, and you could feel you are being pulled in different directions.

You may be forced to go back to projects that you thought you had finished. Keep working steadily, and make sure you have time to relax. Put more passion into your work after 20 March. Diet and exercise can improve your health.

Sagittarius (Nov 22nd-Dec 21st)

» If you expect immediate results, you are going to feel frustrated this month. If you can keep your optimistic outlook, you will ultimately be successful. Your ability to seize an opportunity will help you to grow and reach your goals. A shortage of time and money could sabotage your plans.

Set priorities and eliminate what you do not need.

Capricorn (Dec 22nd-Jan 19th)

» In March you are ready for a fresh start at home and at work. It is essential that you first deal with unfinished business.

After 12 March progress will slow down, and it is good to be creative and enjoy yourself. Routine activities will be stirred up and you may want a more exciting life.

Relocation could be a way of bringing vitality to your career.

Aquarius (Jan 20th-Feb 18th)

» Money matters can be an issue in March. Everything is taking more time than you had planned. Unexpected distractions can surprise and even shock you. Build the foundations for a new phase of your life. A financial windfall is possible after 13 March. Find time to relax and cultivate patience. Remember to think before you act.

Pisces (Feb 19th-March 20th)

» The twofold world of fact and dreams will become more important for you in the coming years. Neptune has moved into your sign and will stay there until March 2025. You will feel in touch with others even more than usual. Issues of injustice and equality will come to the fore. Follow the flow of your positive feelings. Around the New Moon in Pisces on 21 February you can add more magic to your life.

132 ABODE march 2012

2/27/12 1:55 PM

Abode Magazine 22cm X 29.7cm

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