FACT Qatar June 2022 by Fact ME

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18 22 34

Design at DJWE

How Are You Feeling?

CEO Spotlight

CONTENTS

56 74 84

Culinary Spotlight

FACT Dining Awards

Beautiful Barcelona

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• THE EDITOR

A Whirlwind Month

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“Health is a state of body, wellness is a state of being.”

FACT Magazine Qatar Edition • JUNE 2022 VOLUME 08, ISSUE 12

PUBLISHER RAMI KHALIL PUBLISHING DIRECTOR CHIRINE HALABI EDITORIAL DIRECTOR LIZ O’REILLY DIGITAL EDITOR SARA WADDAH

ow, it’s been a busy, busy month with so much going on that we’ve hardly had time to catch our breath. From Doha Jewellery and Watches Exhibition, where we caught up with the CEO of a luxury leather brand whose products will be featured in the new Printemps Doha,

to a flying visit from the CEO of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars, who chatted with us before the opening of the brand’s new Qatar showroom. In between, our much-anticipated FACT Dining Awards 2022 made a spectacular return after two years of covid restrictions. We rolled out the red carpet and partied till the wee small hours with the cream of the Qatar dining scene. You’ll find details and pictures of all the winners in our special feature. And, since we’re always keeping an eye on what’s going on in that very same hospitality sector we’ve, once again, been out and about trying some new dining offerings and old favourites to bring you our recommendations. Our cover story this month looks at wellness treatments both traditional and modern – I found it quite a revelation and I hope you will too. And in Travel, Team FACT visited a rather swanky hotel in Barcelona – one day

ART DIRECTOR SYED MUHAMMED RAIHAN GRAPHIC DESIGNER SACHAN CHANDRAN PHOTOGRAPHER HADY FADI SAMAHA PRODUCTION & DISTRIBUTION AJIT KUMAR NEIL MAHMOOD EDITORIAL & SALES ENQUIRIES chirine@fact-magazine.com DISTRIBUTION DAR AL-SHARQ

it will be my turn but, for now, I really enjoyed reading about it. Sticking with luxury options our ‘car guy’ (or could it be a girl) got behind the wheel of the latest offering from Porsche. I saw it and lusted from afar, it really is one very sexy automobile. Elsewhere, we’ve tested out some new gadgets and, as always, there’s plenty of news from the fields of motoring, entertainment, fashion and happenings on the Qatar scene. I hope you enjoy this month’s read.

Liz O’Reilly Editorial Director editorial@fact-magazine.com

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PRINTED BY AL ANAN PRINTING PRESS, OMAN CONTRIBUTORS AILSA WHYATT AMAL SARHAN CECILIA LERMAN GARETH WOODS KALVIN NG KAY WOODWARD MELISSA NAZARETH

All Rights Reserved. Opinion expressed within does not necessarily represent the opinion of the publisher. All efforts have been made to ensure accuracy of the information within this publication. However, FACT M.E. Publishing cannot accept legal responsibility for any erroneous content or omissions.

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"The sun himself is weak when he first rises, and gathers strength and courage as the day gets on." – Charles Dickens.

ISSUU.COM FACT Qatar 91,240 reads of the May issue. If you need your FACT fix pronto, flick through our monthly online edition on issuu.com for all the best features, including local culture, arts, fashion, food, motoring, tech, travel and more in Qatar and beyond.

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• FACT FINDS

THE CURATOR’S COURSE Qatar Museums’ Culture Pass invites members to exclusive behind-the-scenes tours.

new initiative, the Mathafek programme, has been launched – an annual opportunity for Culture Pass Plus and Culture Pass Family members to enjoy exclusive behind-the-scenes access to Qatar Museums' venues in order to gain an understanding of the innerworkings of the museums and galleries through a series of exclusive tours, talks and events. Throughout June, Culture Pass members are invited to attend the following visits, subject to registration. EVENT: Mathaf Guided Family Visit VENUE: Arab Museum of Modern Art DATES & TIMES: June 2 and 9, from 12pm to 1pm EVENT: Art Lessons With Ismail Azzam VENUE: Manara Studio - Mathaf DATES & TIMES: June 15, from 4pm to 7pm Join artist Ismael Azzam for art lessons at Mathaf and learn techniques in portraiture drawing using pencil, charcoal and paint. Lessons are offered to people with basic to intermediate sketching and drawing skills. Each participant must bring their own sketchbook. Participants may also be asked to sit in as models to have their portraits done. Admission is free and open to those aged 18 and above. EVENT: 3-2-1 Qatar Olympic and Sports Museum Tour VENUE: Khalifa International Stadium, Al Waab Street DATES & TIMES: June 4, from 2pm to 4pm This tour covers the unique exhibits and remarkable collection that highlight the role of sports in cultural development by exploring the history and contemporary significance of the Olympic Games, stories of sporting heroes from around the

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world, as well as the development of sports in Qatar. EVENT: Msheireb Museums Tour VENUE: Msheireb Museums Downtown Doha DATES & TIMES: June 18 and 25, from 2.30pm to 4.30pm These tours reveal unique aspects of Qatar’s cultural and social development in which the people of Qatar engage, converse and exchange thoughts about both their past and their future. EVENT: Your Brain to Me, My Brain to You Exhibition - Family Saturday-Drop-In Projection VENUE: Learning Studio, National Museum of Qatar DATES & TIMES: June 25, from 10am to 12pm Take a tour of the Your Brain to Me, My Brain to You installation and learn how to focus on the present with a 30-minute mindfulness session. Get creative with free hands-on artmaking. Experiment with mirrored light and projections to create dream-like collages inspired by the installation. EVENT: An Introduction To The Storage And Handling Of Collections VENUE: Learning Studio, National Museum of Qatar DATES & TIMES: June 1, from 4pm to 6pm Participants will learn about the theory behind the care of collections with focus on storage and handling, followed by a demonstration of handling techniques and storage options which allow for the best care of the collections. ✤ GO: VISIT WWW.QM.ORG.QA/EN/CULTUREPASS OR HTTPS:// QM.ORG.QA/EN/CALENDAR/?PERIOD=ALL-DATES FOR MORE INFORMATION.

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Seafood Night Buffet Every Thursday 06:30 PM to 11:00 PM

For Reservations: Call +974 4031 3636 Email sirocco.hidoha@ihg.com fact magazine

• LISTEN UP

MARY ALICE JOINS THE BOARD The Fashion Trust Arabia (FTA) Awards, an annual international event, to be held in Doha, has announced that Mary Alice Malone, Founder and Creative Director of Malone Souliers, is among the new members of the advisory board for the annual prize. Mary Alice, an expert within her field, is among other leading fashion figures within the industry including Erdem Moralioglu, Olivier Theyskens, Gaia Repossi, Pierre M’Pelé and Piergiorgio Del Moro, who have joined the advisory board of the fourth edition of Fashion Trust Arabia’s annual prize for fashion designers from the Middle East and North Africa. The non-profit organisation is once again planning a live awards ceremony, to be held in Doha, on October 26. The advisory board will select the 24 finalists who will present their work to the FTA jury. The winners in the four main categories will receive a financial grant of between $100,000 and $200,000, while the recipient of the Franca Sozzani Award will secure a cash award of $25,000 and a mentorship programme. Winning designers will also benefit from a one-year partnership with British luxury retailer Matchesfashion, which includes a mentorship programme and the opportunity to showcase their collections across all Matchesfashion channels. In addition, they will receive guidance on sustainability from ethical fashion retailer Maison de Monde. This year, the chosen guest country is Turkey, with a separate award to be handed to a Turkish designer specialising in women’s ready-to-wear. The board will also be responsible for creating the shortlist of Turkish designers for the Guest Country Award, to be conferred in partnership with the Istanbul Apparel Exporters’ Association. Mary Alice founded Malone Souliers in 2014 and has led the brand to become a globally renowned household name. Her gracious, participatory approach to heading up a brand has gone unchanged since Malone Souliers’ early days and filters through every part of the company, making Mary Alice a strong addition to the advisory board in supporting emerging design talent. Mary Alice grew up on her family's horse-breeding farm in Pennsylvania. She was a distinguished dressage rider and was selected for the US Junior Olympic Equestrian Team. Visits from an eccentric grandmother sparked her curiosity about the transformative power of fashion and a passion for psychology led to an education in political science. She later discovered her vocation as a 'maker' and enrolled in art school in Colorado. Mary Alice's affinity for craftsmanship and structural forms led to shoemaking, at London College of Fashion's Cordwainers course. Her 10

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psychology background remains an endless source of inspiration, ensuring that her designs explore more profound concepts than fashion themes alone. ✤

GO: VISIT FASHIONTRUSTARABIA.COM FOR MORE INFORMATION.

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• LISTEN UP

CALLING VISUAL STORYTELLERS Qatar Museums’ Years of Culture initiative returns with the second edition of the Manga Style! competition. Commemorating the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Qatar and Japan, and the cultural ties established during the Qatar-Japan 2012 Year of Culture, Manga Style! in collaboration with the Japanese Embassy and Geekdom – Doha Film Institute, is back. The Qatar Museums Years of Culture initiative competition invites Qataris and resident manga enthusiasts to submit visually dynamic stories that showcase both countries’ cultures under the theme of Friendship. Original stories can be submitted in Arabic or English until July 31. Entries are free and applicants can submit up to three different stories. Each entry must be a minimum of 16 pages. A team of curators, who are representatives from Qatar Museums, the Embassy of Qatar in Tokyo, the Embassy of Japan in Qatar, and Geekdom – Doha Film Institute, will shortlist the winners by early September. The first-place winner will receive QR20,000, second-place QR15,000 and thirdplace will take home QR10,000. Aisha Ghanem Al Attiya, Director of Cultural Diplomacy, Qatar Museums, said: “The Years of Culture initiative has established a rich legacy of cooperation between Qatar and the 10 countries that have partnered with us in the decade since it was launched. We are particularly honoured to have built long-lasting ties with our very first 12

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Year of Culture partner – Japan – that have only grown over the past decade.” The Manga Style! competition is an opportunity to bring together two distinct cultural legacies steeped in rich storytelling practices – the Arab world’s renowned oral storytelling traditions brought to life through vibrant manga-style illustrations. Manga are a series of comics or graphic novels. Most follow a style developed in Japan in the late 19th century and are rooted in even earlier Japanese artforms. The term manga is used in Japan to refer to both comics and cartooning. The Qatar-MENASA (Middle East, North Africa and South Asia) Year of Culture 2022 will include countries and communities from: Afghanistan, Algeria, Bangladesh, Bahrain, Bhutan, Egypt, India, Iraq, Iran, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Libya, Maldives, Morocco, Nepal, Oman, Pakistan, Palestine, Saudi Arabia, Sudan, Sri Lanka, Turkey, Tunisia, United Arab Emirates, and Yemen. ✤

GO: VISIT YEARSOFCULTURE.QA AND FOLLOW @ YEARSOFCULTURE ON INSTAGRAM FOR MORE INFORMATION.

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• LISTEN UP

REAL ESTATE BOOMING Cityscape Qatar 2022 will showcase new highlights in addition to hundreds of real estate projects. Cityscape, owned by Informa Markets, first took place in 2002 and has since grown to become one of the largest real estate data and media portfolios globally. The 10th edition of Cityscape Qatar, the country’s most prestigious and influential real estate investment, development and networking event, will be held at Doha Exhibition & Convention Centre from June 20 to 22. Over recent years, the Gulf has experienced a relatively sluggish residential, hospitality and commercial real estate market. In Qatar, experts are now seeing shoots of recovery with the attraction of regional developers, the announcement of three museums in Doha from worldleading architects and international investors keen on opportunities in the country’s real estate market. Chris Speller, Group Director of Cityscape, said: “Aligned with its National Vision 2030, Qatar is shifting its focus towards economic diversification and paving the way for real estate to be one of the main drivers. With the new Foreign Investment Law, the swift and decisive handling of the Covid-19 pandemic and the country playing host to the biggest sporting event in the world, Qatar is quickly becoming the attractive investment opportunity in the Gulf. “For Cityscape Qatar’s 10th edition this year, we’re looking to not only offer visitors and exhibitors the opportunity to 14

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see leading projects being launched onto the market but also providing a platform to discuss, inform and debate some of the industry’s most pressing concerns through the Cityscape Intelligence Talks being held on the show floor.” The Cityscape Talks series are aligned with the four pillars of Qatar’s National Vision 2030: sustainability, resilience, affordability and liveability, and will feature speakers from both government entities and key realestate leaders, with each demonstrating how these pillars are gaining prominence and changing the future of real estate in Qatar. The conference agenda will cover topics such as: Big Opportunities for Qatar Real Estate: A Macroeconomic Perspective; The Future of Architecture in Qatar; and ESG – A Gamechanger for the GCC Real Estate Sector. Cityscape Qatar 2022 will also see the introduction of dq (design quarter) for the first time. This is a dedicated exhibition area for regional and international architecture and interior design firms to put a spotlight on their projects and innovations. ✤

GO: VISIT WWW.CITYSCAPEQATAR.COM FOR MORE INFORMATION.

LUXURIOUS

ORIENTAL

SPA EXPERIENCE

The first ever Banyan Tree Spa in the Middle East is opening its doors soon. For more information, please call +974 4410 3334 or email fact magazine 15 spa.doha@banyantree.com

• LISTEN UP

GRAND CLOSE FOR DJWE Showstopping pieces by leading international brands and budding Qatari designers dazzled onlookers and buyers at Doha Jewellery and Watches Exhibition (DJWE). Qatar Tourism (QT) closed the 18th edition of the DJWE with another strong year of visitor attendance. One of the longest running exhibitions in Qatar, the jewellery and watches extravaganza is organised by QT’s Qatar Business Events Corporation (QBEC) and held under the patronage of His Excellency Sheikh Khalid bin Khalifa bin Abdulaziz Al Thani, Prime Minister and Minister of Interior. Following a pause due to the pandemic, the exhibition was last held two years ago in 2020. This year witnessed its successful return as one of the most prominent events on Qatar’s annual calendar. The opening ceremony was attended by HE Sheikh Khalid bin Khalifa bin Abdulaziz Al Thani in addition to several dignitaries, exhibitors and partners. DJWE saw the valued support of Qatar National Bank (QNB) as the Official Sponsor, Qatar Airways as the Official Airline Partner and Alfardan Automotive as the Official Car Sponsor. Bollywood celebrity Alia Bhatt was the face of QT’s promotional campaign for luxury aficionados which was broadcast in multiple regional and international markets, highlighting Qatar as a distinct luxury tourist destination. DJWE was hosted in the Qatar Clean-certified Doha Exhibition & Convention Center and spanned over 30,000sq/m. There were exciting new additions this year including the reveal of new brands by some of Qatar’s leading exhibitors and the magnificent 186.42 carat Saturne necklace by Louis Vuitton. Sessions were offered 16

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by brands such as LÉTRANGE and Lorenz Bäumer, who will be partnering with the soon-to-open Printemps Doha store, as well as homegrown talents such as the Qatar Watch Club and Hairaat by Nada Al Sulaiti. Combining luxury with a special cause, proceeds from curated collections this year went toward supporting the global projects run by Education Above All (EAA). The collection included bangles, earrings and watches by Chopard created especially for EAA, as well as special designs by Qatari jewellers. Further supporting the Qatari community, 10 up-and-coming designers were encouraged to join the exhibition as an initiative to cultivate local talent by displaying their fascinating and beautiful pieces alongside established industry names. Visitors to DJWE also witnessed the well-anticipated stands of Qatari and international industry powerhouses including Alfardan Jewellery, Ali Bin Ali Luxury, Al Majed Jewellery, Al Muftah Jewellery, Amiri Gems, Blue Salon, Bvlgari, Fifty One East and Louis Vuitton. Highlighting the region’s renowned history of distinguished craftsmanship, DJWE also held dedicated spaces for returning Turkish and Indian pavilions. ✤

GO: VISIT WWW.VISITQATAR.QA/ FOR MORE INFORMATION.

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• PRINTEMPS AT DJWE

History, Quality and Customisation Famed French department store, Printemps, will be opening its doors in Doha very soon, bringing with it more than 150 new-to-Qatar brands. One of those new arrivals will be the French luxury leather house LÉTRANGE, which is exclusive to Printemps Doha. FACT took the opportunity to chat to CEO Sébastien Létrange who was at Doha Jewellery and Watches Exhibition (DJWE) alongside Printemps.

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PRINTEMPS AT DJWE •

Your family business, LÉTRANGE, is one of the oldest and most respected leather goods creators in France, having been established in 1838. After it ceased operations in 2007, you orchestrated a rebirth in 2014. What inspired you to bring

Then, I shared these archives with people in the industry and they invited me to revive the brand. The fact that I had the will to revive it was just an accident – nothing was planned.

the brand back to life? The company stopped in 2007 because my great uncle was 75 by then and nobody in the family wanted to keep up with the business. Nobody. He has a daughter who was not interested at all. I never planned to take over the company. It happened randomly that I was working on a book for the 40th anniversary of a brand. I really loved the fact that they were making a book about their very short history because 40 years is nothing compared to our history. And I said, well, I want to do the same. I started digging in the archives of the family company and discovered things I knew from my grandmother and my great grandmother and many other people. There were so many things we didn't know. Digging through the archives, we discovered patterns, models, and amazing things that I still find in antique shops nowadays, everywhere, even in Chicago.

How did you feel returning to the market? Were you apprehensive? No, I think if I was scared, I wouldn't have done it. But it's very funny because we have partners and some of our partners always wished to do what we did. Yet they came to us saying that what we were trying to do was not possible and they ‘know’ because they’re in the business. And that I don’t know, because I’m not from the business [he had previously been in marketing and advertising]. I'm very happy I did it. Maybe if I knew what they knew, I wouldn't have. Please tell us about the exquisite materials used in your products and how they are sourced. Our leather comes from France or Italy. All the jewellery is designed by us; every single piece of jewellery, like the hook, fact magazine

• PRINTEMPS AT DJWE is properly designed and developed by us. There are lots of other elements that go into the making of a bag. Our bags are 100% leather and there's no synthetic or paper in them. That's why they're expensive. That's why they require precise and excellent craftsmanship, because it's layers of leather even on the inside that you don't see. Leather will always age well but it needs much more work and time, making it much more expensive. A bit heavier too. We’re one of the only two brands in the market that do 100% leather. Everything is 100% made in France. We have our own workshop and everything is in-house. Our artistic designer does some research for inspirations after which he does some initial drawings. Then, he goes to the workshop and we start with a paper mockup just to see if it can work. Following that, we do what we call the proper mock-up with salpa, which is quite close to leather. Lastly, we make the first prototype in leather. You can make more than one prototype, and then, the product is good. Once you have your prototype, it becomes your reference. Then, you need to make it repeatable; do it again, in a completely different way so that you can repeat and make samples because making one is completely different from making 10 or 20 or 1004. It's always putting the work back on the table. Can you describe the feeling in your workshop when you know your team has come up with something truly extraordinary that you know will be a winner in the market? And how do you know what will work and what won’t? I think if I knew that, then I would be done. No, I don't know. I have no clue. I have a feeling about whether I like it or don't and we all have different feelings. We do the best that we can, put it onto the market and hope it works.

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You are here, representing both LÉTRANGE and Printemps at DJWE, where you are displaying, for the first time, a oneoff piece, the Empreinte handbag, also known as the ‘Million Dollar handbag’. Please tell us about the bag, its design and construction and what it means to you personally to be able to show something so extraordinary on behalf of your reborn brand. Well, this bag is our iconic product and a bit different than any other because it has a real jewel. It took us three years to make because it was a lot of engineering; of course, there's the craftsmanship of the house, which on leather is very specific and unique to be able to make the body of the bag, but then, we add another complication to the subject, which is that jewel. It has only four points where it touches the bag. If you look carefully, it’s where we put screws. All the other parts don't touch the bag. It's really an organic sculpture. Every single aspect of the bag is a complication. It's like, I think, high complication watches. The weight is an issue; it needs to be not too heavy, not too light. And then the layers need to be perfect. Further, the handle has a curve. On a flat piece of jewel, that you find on most bags, it's easy, you polish it and then you put whatever finishing on it. But ours is a problem of every centimetre. So, even to polish to make it completely perfect is a nightmare. When we put that on the market, immediately it worked. We had the intuition that it could deliver, to answer your previous question. The bag’s handle is a strong signature. Just by looking at the bag, you can tell that it’s unique and not an everyday one. It has a piece of high-end jewellery in it. We're opening with Printemps Doha in Q3 and wanted to raise awareness about the bag, which is why we decided to showcase it at the Doha Jewellery and Watches Exhibition. We

PRINTEMPS AT DJWE •

finished the bag just two days before the event. We had to work for two months straight, almost 24/7. The way we make the handle on the classic bag is completely different; this one’s 100% solid gold – 300 grams of 18-carat white gold. Working with gold is not the same and, so, it was like starting from level zero. Putting differently sized diamonds together on shapes is very, very difficult and, to top it, you hardly see a piece of highend jewellery with a curve like this. We have to pave it, which is pure insanity. Is the Empreinte available for sale or will you retain it as an example of the fine artistic and manufacturing capability of LÉTRANGE? Of course, it will sell. We are not a museum. This is a oneof-a-kind bag but, customisation is possible. You can choose the leather, you can choose the gold, you can choose the diamonds. We will work closely with our clients and listen to their needs and, say, if they want to have a handle full of emeralds, and it’s possible, we will do it. We will try to make it in a few months like three to four months. We don't have the same scale as others so, when you place an order, you're not one in a million, you're just one unique client. So, you can have your product sooner than in other houses. In the basic collection, you have three options. You can have this one, okay. You can have the crocodile version with the basic handle. You can choose your leather, you know, your crocodile, you can choose the colour. You can say, I want this pink crocodile and I want the handle in plated gold, in platinum or in solid gold, but not in diamonds, or you can have the leather one. The leather one will be available in the catalogue in September. Crocodile will always, more or less, have to be ordered. However, we will put the first three pieces of crocodile, mini sized, in black, brown and blue on sale on the website.

tabs that go into slots, like in pizza boxes. It stands because we use tricks to make it strong. It comes in large, medium and small. The small one is made out of six different elements: the flap, the front, the back, sides, the bottom, the handle... In the shop, every element will be offered in five different colours and you can choose the combination you want, like you want the pink flap with a yellow front and green back; in the shop, you have every part in every colour. Of course, you can’t take the bag with you, we send your exact combination to be made in Paris. But you can see it and have it in your hands and even take a picture of your bag. This is unique. There are 14,000 different possible combinations so, it’s most unlikely that you will have the same bag as your friend. So, this is the kind of thing we pushed for Qatar for the first time because we believe that the clientele is willing and is open to that. You can even buy no-stitch bags with exclusive cuts, finished off the shelf. Further, you have bags that are flat. You choose the flat skin you want, which is just like if you were in the workshop or tannery, even, with us so, you can touch the skin. Choose the coloured type of skin you want. You can have your initials and choose where you put them. You can also choose the colour of the of the fittings, we have lots of customised fittings such as with diamonds, with rubies, with sapphires, with whatever you want. So again, it’s quite unlikely that your bag will be the same as your friend. What we want to do is to bring personalisation to Qatar. ✤

How did your partnership with another historic brand, Printemps, come about? After COVID, prices have been massively impacted in terms of tourism. We started to look abroad sooner than expected. We don't need quantity or traffic. We need the sharpness of the clientele. Everybody was telling us to go to Dubai, but we don’t do things the way others do. In the end, we considered Doha and then, Printemps came to us because they knew us in Paris. When I received that call from Printemps Doha, it was more than just business. It was an emotional thing that you say, ‘maybe this is a sign because you were considering this and they called you’. I said yes, of course, Why Not? Why Not? has always been the spirit. (In fact, the brand’s most versatile bag is called The Pourquois-Pas? Or Why Not?) Will you be creating specific lines for Printemps Doha? And, if so, what do you find inspiring about the country and region? Yes, for Printemps Doha we pushed the level of uniqueness that we want to offer even further. We bring a unique type of personalisation, I think, in a way the market has never offered. Usually, you can have your initials but we go much further. There is a bag without stitching and it works like this. There are fact magazine

HOW ARE YOU FEELING? If you’re full of energy and generally fab, we’re genuinely happy for you. But, if you feel the need for a pick-me-up, or are just in the mood for some healthy pampering that’s a bit different, you’re in luck. We’ve researched feel-good options, both ancient and modern, that will have you feeling your best in no time. Read on to learn more.

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• COVER STORY

ANCIENT TREATMENTS HAVE BEEN PASSED DOWN THROUGH GENERATIONS AND WE THINK THEY MIGHT JUST BE WHAT WE’RE LOOKING FOR. knee and back pain. Abo Taiba Medical Cupping Center and Doha Clinic Hospital offer this therapy. You could also explore places specialising in Chinese wellness practices – the therapy was widely used in ancient Chinese treatments as well.

EQUINE THERAPY If you have a pet or have even interacted with a stray, you’ll probably agree that animals have a certain energy that uplifts your spirits instantly. Equine therapy works on the healing aura of animals. Ancient Greeks are said to have used horses to treat incurable diseases. Hippocrates wrote about therapeutic riding or hippotherapy – his namesake – as early as 400 BC. It’s said to help with neurological conditions, such as cerebral palsy, movement disorders and balance problems, lower blood pressure, decrease stress levels, reduce feelings of anger, tension and anxiety, and improve social functions. Horses are an integral part of Arab history and tradition. Al Shaqab, a member of the Qatar Foundation, offers therapeutic horse riding for children as does Al Samariya Estate, which will resume its sessions for both children and adults in October.

HO′OPONOPONO You know how they say when you hold a grudge or pentup anger, it affects you physically? It’s easy to overlook a psychosomatic condition or illness. Ho′oponopono is a traditional Hawaiian forgiveness practice and can be a wonderful way to nip a condition caused by mental stress in the bud. It’s a useful technique even if you’re not struggling with resentment or internal conflict. There are four easy steps, each having its own affirmation: the first step is repentance and you say sorry; the second step is forgiveness and you say please forgive me; the third step is gratitude and you say thank you; and the last step is love and you say I love you. You can practice Ho′oponopono to heal people other than yourself; a Hawaiian psychotherapist is believed to have cured an entire ward of criminally insane patients, without ever meeting any of them or spending any time with them by using this technique.

HIJAMA Used by ancient Egyptians, Hijama, or cupping therapy, works on the principle of pulling bad toxins from the body. It increases blood and energy flow to areas that need healing by creating a vacuum using cups that are traditionally made of glass. Inducing relaxation, it’s great for blood circulation and to treat blood-related, rheumatoid and skin diseases. Cupping therapy can also work wonders for lung ailments such as allergies and asthma, headaches and migraines, high blood pressure and 24

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ACUPUNCTURE When you think of acupuncture, the image of Kung Fu Panda being stuck with needles by Mantis and Viper comes to mind – that’s on a lighter note; originating in China 5,000 years ago, this technique is practised worldwide as a preventative medicine and to treat various ailments. The therapy involves inserting ultra-thin needles into your body, which sounds painful but is ironically used for pain relief. When pricked, the acupuncture points of your body stimulate the central nervous system causing bio chemical changes that balance energy flow. It is typically used in combination with moxibustion (the burning of dried mugwort leaves) and cupping. American Hospital Clinics, the Chinese Health Center and International Chinese Body Care Houses are some of the places that offer acupuncture treatments.

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• COVER STORY placed on or around the body of the person seeking to benefit from them and are generally used in combination with other wellness practices such as meditation and yoga. Most wellness centres and yoga studios use them but if you want to buy them, we recommend credible online retailers – the higher the quality, the more resonant the sound – music shops and stores that specialise in new-age products. A caveat: if you’re epileptic or pregnant or are someone who is prone to headaches, you may want to avoid singing bowls.

YOGA

ICE BATHS Most of you may have heard of cryotherapy, a treatment involving the use of freezing or near-freezing temperatures. Cold therapy is said to have originated in ancient Egypt around 2500BC to treat inflammations and injuries. Now, meet the father of cryotherapy so to speak – ice baths. They originated as far back as 3500 to 5000BC and are said to have their roots in ancient Greece, though there’s evidence for the same in ancient Rome and other civilizations including Egypt and India. Ice baths offer mental and physical benefits such as soothing sore muscles, boosting metabolism and immunity, reducing stress and improving sleep. While cryotherapy involves exposure to temperatures as low as -80 to -140 degrees Celsius, ice baths aren’t quite as arctic at -10 to -15 degrees Celsius. If you’re feeling worse for wear, then head to the Spa and Wellness Center at Four Seasons Hotel Doha. They have both an ice room and plunge pools – cold and hot. A cold shower or bath at home will also prove effective.

SATTVIC DIET We’ve all heard of balanced diets. Now, meet the sattvic diet, a form of treatment in Ayurveda, which advocates the consumption of seasonal foods, fruits if one has no sugar problems, nuts, seeds, oils, ripe vegetables, legumes, whole grains and non-meat-based proteins. Dairy products are recommended only if they’re sourced humanely by feeding and milking the animal appropriately. Following through with this one will help you lose weight, feel lighter and be more energetic and calmer. Most vegan and vegetarian foods can be categorised as sattvic. While there are many restaurants serving this, we recommend fresh homecooked meals. If you can’t give up your meat all together, try eating plant-based a few times a week to start off with and you can build as you go along. Sattvic food offers benefits such as reduced risk of cardiovascular diseases and other diseases such as cancer and Alzheimer’s. Further, it reduces environmental impact.

TIBETAN SINGING BOWLS Using the healing benefits of sound therapy, Tibetan singing bowls have a history that dates back thousands of years. The rich, deep tone and vibrations produced when they’re played by running a wooden mallet on the rim or outer wall of the bowl induce relaxation, improve sleep and relieve pain, among other good things. Traditionally made of metal, they’re typically 26

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Every year on June 21 – International Day of Yoga – social media is awash with images of people bent at weird angles and with limbs knotted like a pretzel. It makes you want to whip out a mat and do it yourself only to realise it’s not as easy as it looks. However, we recommend giving it a go – what better time than this month? – because yoga has many benefits such as relaxation, better stress management, higher energy levels, improved heart health, relief from back pain and good bone health. The best part: you don’t need expensive equipment – just a mat and yourself. Aerial yoga, which involves doing the postures while being suspended from the ceiling by a silk hammock or sling, originated in New York in the early 90s. If you prefer to mix things up a bit, try out this style, which is a combination of yoga and the aerial arts. It’s suitable for both beginners and experts. Yoga Hi offers all styles including ariel – they mostly conduct all-ladies sessions but have a few for men. Other places you can explore are Evolve, Niya Yoga and Mandala Yoga – though they don’t offer aerial. Or you could start small – there are many videos available online for beginners.

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MODERN WELLNESS PRACTICES MAY SOMETIMES SEEM A BIT FAR-FETCHED. TRY THEM WITH AN OPEN MIND AND REAP THE BENEFITS. well-being resort, Zulal Wellness Resort by Chiva-Som, offers a plethora of earthing experiences aimed at balancing the body, mind and spirt. As part of their retreats, you can enjoy a number of activities including a Beach Nature Walk and an Island Walk.

ACAI BOWLS These Instagram-worthy, colourful bowls of delicious goodness are all the rage with fitness enthusiasts. Açaí na tigela, which translates to acai bowl, is a Brazilian dessert from Pará and Amazonas, where the Ribeirinhos people prepare it regularly. In the last decade or so, it has become a popular breakfast item. Come to think of it, what better way to start your day than with dessert? The main ingredient is frozen acai palm fruit, which has an earthy, creamy taste. It’s pureed and typically topped with coconut chips, chia seeds, cut up fruit and nut butter. Rich in anti-oxidants, acai berries can reduce bad cholesterol in your blood. Additionally, they strengthen the immune system and are good for your heart muscles. EL&N LONDON, Evergreen Organics, jones the grocer, Origin Café, Twisted Olive and The Bowl are some places that serve acai bowls. You can easily whip up one of these at home as well – frozen acai berries and powder are available in stores.

IKIGAI Ikigai refers to something that gives you a purpose in life or a reason to live. A concept that’s long been part of Japanese culture, it gained mainstream popularity in the 1960s. Most recently, the concept returned to the forefront thanks to the book by the same name. Authored by Hector Garcia and Francesc Miralles, it compiles their experiences interviewing the residents of Okinawa, a Japanese village with the highest percentage of 100-year-olds – practising this wellness attitude has allowed them to lead long, happy lives. The idea is to live purposefully, pursuing that which brings you a sense of fulfilment, whether it’s related to your health, career or social life; just like the people of Okinawa who eat right, stay active, pursue some form of work – never retire – have hobbies and spend time with the community, friends and family. It’s really pretty straightforward if you ask us and boils down to dividing your time in a balanced manner. As they say, all work and no play…

EARTHING Immersive natural experiences are an instant mood lifter, the effect of which can last for days or even weeks. Simply coming into direct contact with the Earth’s surface, such as walking barefoot through the sands or sitting on grass, has significant health benefits. Earthing or grounding can decrease pain, enhance sleep quality, lower blood pressure and thin the blood. It’s the Earth's negative charge that promotes a stable internal environment and normal functioning of all systems in the body. Qatar’s largest wellness destination and the Middle East’s first 28

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they become your words; watch your words, they become your actions; watch your actions, they become your habits; watch your habits, they become your character; watch your character, it becomes your destiny.” Attributed by some to Lao Tzu and by others to Mahatma Gandhi, the quote accurately encompasses the idea of affirmations as a wellness therapy. They are carefully formatted statements that should be repeated to one's self or written down frequently. They can also include chants or mantras, positive images and videos, and spiritual talks and lectures. Whether your existing state of mind is positive or negative, practising affirmations will bring about optimism, which will permeate all aspects of your life.

DOLCE FAR NIENTE If you’ve watched the Julia Roberts film Eat, Pray, Love, you would know of this therapy that many of us practice without even realising it. Dolce far niente translates to the sweetness of doing nothing and is a philosophy that’s ingrained into the Italian way of life. It encourages people to take the slow lane and live in the moment. Now, now. Don’t you start thinking that you can scroll away on your phone, lying down like a lizard on a rock the whole day. It’s best to stay away from digital and other distractions or regulate their usage. You need to actively relax in order to recharge and restore your mind and body.

SIESTA Ever sat at your work desk after a hearty lunch wishing you could curl up under a blanket, if only for a short while? We move siestas be legally enforced in Qatar. Essentially a midday nap particularly after lunch, they are a simple way to unwind and energise for the remainder of the day. While many associate them with Spain, they are actually said to have originated in ancient Rome where they’re called riposo. Traditionally, siestas last for two hours or more but productivity experts recommend power naps, which are about 10 to 20 minutes long. Regardless of how long, we promise you’ll wake up feeling refreshed and ready for whatever comes next.

AFFIRMATIONS You must have come across the quote, “Watch your thoughts, 30

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ACCESS BARS

ADAPTOGENS Offering a host of benefits from boosting immunity and reducing stress to maintaining hormonal balance and improving energy and memory, adaptogens are plants and roots that help keep your body in a balanced state. They could be store cupboard staples such as turmeric and ginger or others such as holy basil, American ginseng, Asian ginseng and ashwagandha. You can consume them by adding them to your food or drinks or even brewing them as teas. Adaptogens are also available as capsule supplements, tinctures or energy shots. Being herbal, they don’t usually have any side effects but it’s best to consult your doctor before taking them, especially if you’re on other prescription medication.

LAUGHTER YOGA Ever notice how you feel lighter after watching a comedy movie or meeting friends and having a good laugh with them. Sigmund Freud called it psychic energy, which when released brings gratification. A meditative practice incorporating stretching, deep breathing and laughing, laughter yoga is the simplest way to boost your mood. The first laughter club was founded in 1995 by Dr Madan Kataria from Mumbai, India. According to him, our body can’t differentiate between real and fake laughter. The benefits include reduced stress and hence, a stronger immune system, high energy, relief from pain, heart and lung health, and stronger abs – what’s there to lose (pun intended)? The next time you’re feeling low, give yourself a prescription to laugh. We bet you won’t regret it. 32

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Founded only 30 years ago by Gary M. Douglas, this healing modality has fast gained a good reputation with wellness enthusiasts. Access consciousness involves gently touching 32 points on your head, which when stimulated cause the release of anything that is stopping your from living your life to the fullest. Having your bars run, as it’s often called, will allow you to experience a deep relaxation and enhance your body’s ability to heal itself. Further, it doesn’t interfere with any conventional or alternative treatment or therapy. Rather, it has been found to enhance them. While you can get trained and run your own Access Bars, an experienced facilitator is recommended – Access Consciousness Qatar on Facebook is a good place to connect with practitioners and learn more about the modality. ✤

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• CEO SPOTLIGHT

LUXURY IN THE HOUSE Torsten Müller-Ötvös, CEO of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars, paid a flying visit to Qatar for the opening of the brand’s new showroom, introducing its new ‘House of Luxury’ brand identity to the region. FACT seized the chance to chat with the renowned innovator to learn more.

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We can see Rolls-Royce as an ultra-luxury brand moving from car manufacturer to luxury experience in all aspects: from the new concept of the showroom and the car designs to the engaging art, luxury goods and the experience itself. Do you think this is the future for Rolls-Royce, taking it from a car manufacturer to a luxury lifestyle experience for customers? How will Rolls-Royce manage to achieve this, both now and in the future? Experience is the name of the game today. Clients aren’t attracted by sheer product any longer. People want to understand the background of the brand… How do we build these masterpieces? How do we train our craftspeople? How do we define luxury? Part of the whole idea of the ‘House of Luxury’ is to deliver new levels of experience to our clients – to explain what Rolls-Royces are all about. When we sit together, specifying, commissioning and bespoking the car, I think that is truly important. A Rolls-Royce isn’t something that you buy every Friday afternoon; it’s something you’ve thought about for a while. And when you get together with our designers, it’s like painting a masterpiece and an experience you will never forget. Your imagination is our limit. (The only exception is that if you asked us to remove, say, airbags and install a humidor instead. This is not possible.) The new showroom enables us to become a full House of Luxury that starts in Goodwood when we welcome clients and show them what it means to build a Rolls-Royce. But we can’t invite everyone to Goodwood, which is why we’ve developed this showroom concept, inspired by other luxury brands around the world.

The new Doha showroom is part of the gradual global unveiling of a new visual language across major showrooms around the world. Please explain the ethos and reasoning behind the new concept and who it is designed to attract. Why is it important to bring that new visual identity to Qatar? What makes this market important for the brand? And how do you think Qatar will receive this new luxury design language? Qatar is a very important market for us. It’s developed in an astonishing way over the last few years. So, I’m very proud that they are the first in the Middle East region to incorporate the new visual identity. The reason we decided to start in Doha was because it’s a booming market for us – extremely professionally looked after by our partner in Doha, the Al Fardan company. The Pearl Showroom was opened in 2009 and now our partner is taking it to a new level for Rolls-Royce Motor Cars. Having taken over as CEO of Rolls-Royce in 2010, you are credited with turning the brand around and achieving an impressive 400% increase in sales worldwide. To what do you attribute this success – how did you go about changing the perception of the marque and attracting a fresh audience? I think we directed the brand to be far more contemporary, younger and – allow me to say – cooler than it used to be 12 years ago. The average age of our clients, for example, is now 43, compared to 56 or 57 when I joined the company. And that’s worldwide, including the Middle East, where we see very young clients. When I joined, women made up just 1% of fact magazine

• CEO SPOTLIGHT buyers; now it’s 15%. Interestingly, about 80% of our clients are business people, while 20% are celebrities, quite an eclectic mix! Social-media activities, particularly of our celebrity clients, using Rolls-Royce to showcase their own personality, have fertilised the brand in a new way. Then there’s the Black Badge – I call it the darker side of the brand, the alter-ego if you like. This also helped to lower the average age and bring completely new clients into our brand. Younger clients needed a different product – a product that’s not chauffeur-driven. Rolls-Royce used to be very much a chauffeur-driven brand. Now, over 80% of our clients are behind the wheel themselves. But you always need to keep your finger on the pulse. The last thing you want to do is rest on your laurels. The first quarter of this year has seen Rolls-Royce produce its best sales figures on record. How has this been achieved coming out of a global pandemic and do you believe it is also connected with the additional options you have given customers, such as Coachbuild and its latest iteration in the form of Boat Tail? We’re also very surprised by the fast recovery after the Covid blip. I would assign it to a couple of factors. One is that during the lockdowns, people were able to accumulate money. Later, they spent this money on luxury goods. The second factor is that I think people changed their mindset during Covid times. They saw that life can be short and for that reason it’s better to live now than to postpone it. Both of these reasons

helped to fuel our business. Today, we are sitting on orders that reach far into 2023. If you order a Black Badge car today, you’ll wait until September or October next year. It’s also a testament to bespoke Coachbuild. We’ve invested quite heavily, particularly in pandemic times, into new ideas around bespoke and it’s always about fuelling the imaginations of our clients. Just to give you one example, the starlight headliner in our car – this is now available in shooting stars. It’s a musthave. You can’t sit in a car without shooting stars. The Starlight Headliner gives you the impression of sitting under the night sky – 1,350 fibre optics that sparkle. This sort of thing has given clients food for thought. Coachbuild is slightly different. It’s not intended to be, profitwise, a big part of our business. Instead, Coachbuild underlines the capabilities of the brand. It harks back to the old times, in the 1920s and ‘30s, where every Rolls-Royce was coachbuilt. The chassis came from Rolls-Royce and the client commissioned the body, together with the coachbuilder. This idea is now back. It’s a trip that takes five years – an unbelievable, moneycan’t-buy adventure, because it’s by invitation only. You are with us on day one, when the designers sit and design the car based on what you would like to see, and then you are part of the process. You need to bring time. You will sign off the design. You’ll be allowed to shake the clay of the clay model. That obviously fuels the imagination, fuels the romanticism of the brand and fuels the idea that the sky is the limit. It’s a division which is 120 people, only doing bespoke –

From right to left: Torsten Müller-Ötvös, Chief Executive Officer, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars; Omar Alfardan, President & CEO, Alfardan Group; Henrik Wilhelmsmeyer, Director of Sales and Brand, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars

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engineers, designers, craftspeople who are able to do the most eclectic things. That’s the reason why I said in the beginning that you need to come and take a chance. You will not tour an automotive factory. You’re touring a luxury plant and when you see how delicately we are doing things, what kind of crafts we are cherishing in our organisation, it’s mindboggling. And I think that is Rolls-Royce. The Boat Tail is a car that is unseen on Earth. It is now the most expensive new car ever built in the history of the automotive industry. And that is right for the brand. These kinds of statements underline what this brand stands for – the best, the pinnacle. Do you think luxury changes from one generation to another? For example, my father’s definition of luxury would be very different from my daughter’s. How is Rolls-Royce addressing this coming generation? Yes, definitely. One hundred per cent. We are constantly in contact with our clients, especially the younger ones, finding out what might be in or out in a couple of years. But not everything that you might want to offer in the future comes from your creative clients. You also need to develop your own ideas. And we do that. We bring that all together. I think we also need to lead the market. We are the pinnacle brand. We bring things into the market that our clients might not have thought about. So, for that reason, in 10 years, when the brand is fully electric and luxury again looks very, very different from today, rest assured, we will still be leading the market. Earlier this year, Rolls-Royce announced the new fullyelectric Spectre. How is it possible to engineer and adapt such high-end vehicles to be chargeable while maintaining the luxury experience? When Rolls-Royce brings a product onto the market, it’s perfect. And this will hold true for all of the electric RollsRoyces to come. First of all, it’s a Rolls-Royce. Secondly, it’s an electric Rolls-Royce. And not the other way round. So, for that reason, rest assured that battery capacity and things like range or charging time will be completely sufficient for our clients. We also know that our clients hardly ever drive long mileages – their journeys are very much round cities. All our clients have quite impressive houses too. Many of them already have charging facilities at home for electric cars. This will be the quietest Rolls-Royce ever built – electrification and electric propulsion fits perfectly with the brand. It’s silent. It’s torque-y. And that’s exactly what Rolls-Royce is about. It’s clear that electric is, particularly in the high-end sector, the long-term future. The brand has committed to going fully-electric by 2030, how do you plan to achieve this? Will traditional engines still be available for those who want them? Not after 2030. Every car we build after 2030 will be electric. There will obviously be internal combustion engine Rolls-Royces for many years to come, but we will not build them anymore. ✤ fact magazine

THE 2022 PORSCHE PANAMERA GTS Porsche persist in their quest for Panamera perfection.

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ithout a doubt, Porsche is one of the most sought-after and successful sports car manufacturers on the planet. Over the decades they have released scores of superbly designed, performance orientated vehicles, all of which have maintained an exceptional standard of luxury and craftmanship. Never a brand to rest on its laurels, Porsche have recently released yet another update to their impressive Panamera range, this time in the form on the 2022 Panamera GTS. This month, the Fact team were fortunate enough to test drive this latest creation, compliments of Porsche Centre Doha. Updated Exterior The Porsche Panamera GTS’s exterior has undergone a substantial upgrade for 2022. This four-door, mid- to full-sized luxury sedan now includes, as standard, the Sport Design Package with its visually appealing black highlights. Both the back and front ends now feature black trimmings and, when combined with the fastback roofline, bestow the vehicle with an alluring, athletic appearance. We found the design of the exterior to be more streamlined in nature than ever before, with both the front and the rear boasting a more sculptured finish. A novel feature of this car is fact magazine

• CITY RIDES

the LED headlights that swivel whilst navigating corners, to better illuminate the road ahead. Other notable features include 20-inch aluminium wheels, a full sports exhaust system, along with the beautifully designed rear wing that folds both in and out when required; a first for a Porsche vehicle. An abundance of GTS logos located all around the body finish off the exterior in style. Refined Interior The moment we entered the ergonomic cabin of the GTS, we fell in love all over again. We were greeted by ultra-comfy, 18-way power-adjustable front seats, with lumbar support. The low-slung position of these seats adds to the already exciting feel of this sports sedan and increases one’s desire to get it out onto the roads. Premium materials have been used throughout the interior, with every surface covering, trimming, and finish adding to the luxurious feel of the GTS. Trademark elements of anodised aluminium and black Alcantara, combined with Piano Black trim accents, all add to the sporty and lavish nature of this model’s interior. The multifunction sports steering wheel with gearshift paddles is not only multi-adjustable but also provides the driver access to many of the vehicle’s functions through conveniently placed buttons. Additionally, we found the uniquely designed drive select lever to be both a functional and aesthetically appealing feature of the interior. Space wise, the cabin offers plenty of head, shoulder and leg room. As one may expect from a sports sedan, the seating is a little tighter in the back, with space for only two people to sit comfortably. If extra legroom is what you’re after, purchasing the long-wheelbase GTS model would be your answer. The luggage compartment provides 495litres of space, an area 40

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that can be increased to 1,334litres with the 60/40 split rear seats folded flat. This feature, combined with the four-door design, make this sports vehicle practical for everyday use. An extensive range of interior extras are available upon request. Superior Technology Tech wise, the 2022 Panamera GTS boasts an impressive setup, designed to merge car and driver. The system is equipped with a 12.3-inch main touchscreen and is run on Porsche software. Two additional screens located on either side of the rev counter, haptic feedback touch sensitive buttons, along with a small rotary knob, further assist in the routine functionality of this Porsche. We found this setup in its entirety, to be both intuitive and easy to navigate. The modern infotainment system includes Porsche Communication Management 6.0, featuring Bluetooth, an audio interface, as well as an excellent online navigation tool. Porsche Connect Plus is also included in the setup, providing wireless internet and a telephone module. A Porsche Vehicle Tracking System is equipped as standard. This configuration is compatible with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay and also includes Sirius XM radio, HD radio, wireless charging and a 10-speaker Hi-Fi sound system. An array of additional tech features is available upon request. Advanced Performance The 2022 Panamera GTS houses a four-litre V8, biturbo petrol engine, that produces a displacement of 3,996cm³. This highperformance motor generates 480hp and a maximum torque of 620Nm. The sound created by this beastly engine combined with the sports exhaust system, is enough to put a smile on the face of any sports car enthusiast.

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The sound created by this beastly engine combined with the sports exhaust system, is enough to put a smile on the face of any sports car enthusiast.”

In conjunction with the standard Sport Chrono Package, the latest model GTS can surge from 0-100km/h in a mere 3.9 seconds, and achieve a top speed of around 300km/h. The combination of the Porsche Traction Management (PTM) all-wheel-drive system, along with the eight-speed dual clutch gearbox, ensure there is a constant supply of tractive force, guaranteeing one powerful yet smooth ride. Greatly contributing to the first-class composition of the 2022 GTS are the sports chassis with three chamber air suspension, the highly effective braking system, along with the vehicle’s exceptional handling and cornering abilities. We thoroughly enjoyed every minute we spent putting this new Panamera through its paces and always felt in complete control of the driving experience. Porsche have included a wide range of both standard and optional safety and performance features, to ensure the wellbeing of you and your loved ones. ✤ GO: CALL 4459 9666 FOR MORE INFORMATION AND TO BOOK A TEST DRIVE OF YOUR OWN. fact magazine

• MOTORING NEWS

GLOBAL PREMIERE Italian marque Maserati has presented the MC20 Cielo, a one-of-a-kind car that can deliver the performance of a true super sports car, together with holistic and immersive driving pleasure. And, even better, the model is now available as a spyder.

The MC20 Cielo announces its special features in its very name: MC stands for Maserati Corse (‘Racing’); 20 refers to 2020, the year that began the brand’s new era; Cielo (‘sky’) highlights the fact that this is a model devoted to driving pleasure in the great outdoors, while maintaining all the prerogatives of the coupé. Equipped with the revolutionary V6 Nettuno engine, the Cielo offers a perfect mix of sportiness and luxury, courtesy of a specification unique to the segment: the innovative retractable glass roof. The model is equipped with a state-of-the-art electrochromic (smart glass) window that can instantly be transformed from clear to opaque at the touch of a button on the central screen, courtesy of Polymer-Dispersed Liquid Crystal (PDLC) technology. The roof is also best-in-class in terms of thermal insulation and of opening and closing speed (just 12 seconds). Developed at the Maserati Innovation Lab and produced at the historic plant on Viale Ciro Menotti, the spyder is 100% made in Italy and 100% made in Modena, as is the coupé version. Designed for perfection, it weighs just 65kg more than the coupé. As well as its outstanding weight-to-power ratio, the carbon fibre chassis (the same for all three configurations to come: coupé, spyder and the future electric version) also guarantees uncompromising torsional rigidity, offering a combination of extraordinary handling on the road and on the track. The new spyder is a car with an elegant yet highly sporty design. 42

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Its character and personality are truly eye-catching for the purity of its forms and the refined aerodynamics, subjected to 360° testing in a wind tunnel, whether the roof is open or closed. Nothing is superfluous in the design; everything has its own function. The only concession to a surprise effect is the butterfly doors, as in the MC20 super sports car. The butterfly door provides much easier access into and out of the cabin, as well as showing off the carbon fibre cockpit and the completely unmasked front wheel. From an aesthetic perspective, the launch version features a new three-layer metallic colour known as Acquamarina, available as part of the Maserati Fuoriserie customisation programme. A colour that interacts with light, revealing itself in a surprising way, the base is a pastel grey, inspired by racing, reminiscent of the MC20’s sporty DNA, accompanied by an iridescent aquamarine mica that enlivens the hue and makes it exceptional. The new model also adds a wide range of Active Safety Systems. As well as the parking sensors, rear-view camera and blind spot monitoring included in the MC20 since the MY22, the new spyder introduces autonomous emergency brake, traffic sign information and a new 360° camera. ✤ GO: VISIT WWW.MASERATI.COM FOR FURTHER INFORMATION.

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• PLUGGED IN

THE LATEST SMARTWATCH HUAWEI raise the bar with the all singing, all dancing, new GT 3 Pro.

ech giants HUAWEI have released their latest flagship smartwatch; the HUAWEI WATCH GT 3 Pro. FACT magazine performed a detailed inspection of this new creation, a device we found to be HUAWEI’s best-looking and most functional smartwatch offering to date.

playback and reminders such as emails and social media messages, amongst many others. This HUAWEI watch has been designed to support effortless compatibility and connectivity with other HUAWEI devices. Once connected with a HUAWEI smartphone, we were able to control local applications via voice commands, both quickly and effectively.

Look & Feel

Battery Life

Appearance wise, the GT 3 Pro is nothing short of striking. It is available in two variants, namely the Titanium Edition (black) and the Ceramic Edition (white). Both are constructed out of high-end materials, feature beautifully crafted moon phase compilations and feel solid in hand.

The Titanium Edition comes with an extensive 14 days of battery life. This is reduced to seven days through intense usage. The Ceramic Edition comes with seven days of battery life, reduced to four days with heavy usage. These two editions are both compatible with wireless fast charging support, meaning it took a mere 10 minutes of charging for us to obtain a full day of usage.

Titanium Edition The fresh and premium feel of the Titanium Edition is underscored by the luxury-grade polishing. It features a 1.43-inch AMOLED high-definition colour display and comes equipped with a titanium metal case, a sapphire glass lens and a ceramic black case.

Ceramic Edition The Ceramic Edition, on the other hand, exhibits a more feminine design, with its soft and elegant style. It features a 1.32-inch AMOLED HD colour display and is finished off with fine polishing techniques. Sporting gold and silver accents, this sparkling device flaunts an exclusive flower dial with various dynamic effects.

Health & Workouts In our opinion, one of the finest features of the GT 3 Pro is that it supports Electrocardiogram (ECG) data collection. This means that this watch can monitor and manage many of the body’s important functions. These include heart rate monitoring, blood oxygen levels, respiratory health, sleeping patterns, blood pressure and more. HUAWEI have also included more than 100 workout modes to select from.

Our Verdict The new HUAWEI WATCH GT 3 Pro is the new must-have device for all smartwatch enthusiasts. ✤

Features & Functionality We found the functionality of the GT 3 Pro to have been greatly enhanced. It now supports Bluetooth calls, remote shutters, music 44

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HTTPS://CONSUMER.HUAWEI.COM/QA/ FOR MORE INFORMATION.

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• PLUGGED IN

A NEW GENERATION OPPO have released the latest Reno smartphone to rave reviews.

his month, the FACT team set its sights on the brand-new Reno7 Pro 5G, the latest generation smartphone in OPPO’s Reno Series.

Exterior Design

The Reno7 Pro 5G has inherited a lightweight and ultra-slim design from its Reno predecessors. At only 7.45mm thick and weighing in at about 180grams, we forgot we were holding it at times. Nonetheless, the device is a high-quality piece that feels solid in its makeup. This eye-catching smartphone owes its striking appearance to the OPPO Glow process applied to the device’s exterior, along with the industry-first application of Laser Direct Imaging (LDI) technology. The result is two sparkling colour options, namely Startrails Blue and Starlight Black. And 2.5D glass has been applied to both sides of the phone, providing a superior touch experience. This proved less prone to mistouch than curved screens. OPPO’s first use of coated ceramic trimmings and another industry-first, the Orbit Breathing Light, have helped to ensure a unique and premium exterior design.

Hardware & Performance The model showcases a 6.5-inch, 2400 x 1080px AMOLED display. It has a maximum refresh rate of 90Hz and a touch-sampling rate of 180Hz. Overall, we were highly impressed by MediaTech’s Diversity 1200-MAX octa-core processor. It boasts best-in-class AI, camera and multimedia technology. Designed to be the most power efficient and feature-filled 5G-integrated modem to date, it offers one of the fastest smartphone CPUs ever created. It provides power saving enhancements, faster average speeds and the first true dual 5G experience. This potent processor is combined with 12GB of RAM and 256GB of storage. The result is a silky-smooth experience, even with several apps running simultaneously. Additionally, high-quality audio, an X-Axis Linear Motor, Ultra Touch Response and the AI Frame Rate Stabiliser, provide an 46

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immersive gaming experience. In truth, we had to tear ourselves away to complete our full review.

Software The Reno7 Pro 5G is amongst the first OPPO smartphones to be installed with ColorOS 12 as standard. This software significantly improves both productivity and privacy. It also allows you to customise wallpapers, icons, the fingerprint scanner animation, the Always on Display and more.

Camera Marketed as a camera phone, the Oppo Reno7 Pro 5G features an impressive triple camera set-up at the back, including a 50-megapixel primary camera, an eight-megapixel ultra-wideangle lens and a two-megapixel macro sensor. There is also a 32-megapixel selfie camera located at the front. Portrait mode is available on both the front and back cameras, offering superior edge detection and a solid bokeh effect. No matter the time of day or night, we captured pictures and videos that were both vivid and crystal clear. The helpful camera app offers a range of modes and features, including various beauty filters and retouching options.

Battery Life A special mention must go to the 4500mAH battery of the Reno7 Pro 5G. It takes a mere 31 minutes to fully charge, with as little as five minutes of charge, providing enough power for us to enjoy four hours of continuous movie playback. Finally, this smartphone refused to heat up, no matter how intensely we used it.

Verdict The Reno7 Pro 5G has surpassed previous generations in all areas of appearance and performance and now offers a truly unique, responsive and rewarding experience. ✤ GO: VISIT WWW.OPPO.COM FOR FURTHER INFORMATION.

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• PLUGGED IN

APP-LICIOUS What’s on the smartphone agenda for June?

Zombies, Run!

Rootd

Want to make running fun? This might be the app for you. Run through the streets of your neighbourhood while you’re chased by zombies. This exercise and game app combines the excitement of gaming and the positives of fitness. With the slogan ‘Run in the real world, Become a hero in another’, you are given specific missions and tasks as you navigate through the destruction of a zombie invasion. All you need to do is choose a story and set your mission. You can also play some background music and can adjust settings such as having zombies chase you to speed up. As you accomplish missions, you progress to another season. You can decide if you want your GPS tracked, your steps counted or your run timed, so you can view them later on as you accomplish mission after mission. Once you start your run, a script will be read, you’ll be faced with obstacles such as running from a helicopter crash or through a hoard of zombies. Missions include defending a home, saving a child or collecting and delivering materials.

This app is for anyone suffering from anxiety and panic attacks. Activate the Rootr when you feel an attack coming on and find the comfort you need as soon as possible. Once you press the red button, you are asked whether you feel confident or don’t feel too good before you are guided through your attack. The app also offers information on the nature of anxiety and panic attacks to help users understand what happens to the body when you experience it and why the attacks might be happening to you. It also walks you through specific techniques and short-term lessons to help provide relief and practice calming exercises and breathing techniques. The award-winning and scientifically backed app additionally has long-term lessons to help users get to a place where they are panic attack free as they alter their relationship with anxiety. So, if you are someone who grapples with anxiety, maybe give this app a try.

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• ANNIVERSARY SPOTLIGHT

CELEBRATING FIVE FABULOUS YEARS Mikel Ibrahim, GM of Mondrian Doha, tells us how the hotel will mark its fifth anniversary in a uniquely flavourful way.

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ANNIVERSARY SPOTLIGHT •

Congratulations on the fifth anniversary. Please tell us about the Taste of Mondrian initiative which will take place from June 1 to 4? Thank you! Taste of Mondrian is one of the many exciting celebrations we are sharing with our guests and friends to taste, savour and experience Mondrian Doha’s innovative dining creations and vibrant nightlife. What is the aim of Taste of Mondrian and how do you hope to engage the local population? During the four days of the Taste of Mondrian experience, our bespoke dining and nightlife outlets will showcase special menus and entertainment options to share Mondrian’s eclectic lifestyle. It’s our way of saying thank you and expect more sensational delights… We hope to see our loyal guests and new guests enjoying our chefs’ latest creations and nightlife offerings. We understand some exceptional chefs will be involved. Please reveal who is coming and what they will be doing. Celebrity Chef Masaharu Morimoto, renowned for his unique blend of ancient traditional Japanese cooking styles and Western flavours, will be joining us. Guests will have the chance to meet the chef and enjoy daily demos and special experiences including the Sake Splash Ceremony and the Bespoke Morimoto Menu, Omakase experience and live tuna cutting. From SLS Dubai, Chef Sara Aqel, Global Executive Chef of Fi’lia, will be taking guests on a Mediterranean journey to relish in an exclusive brunch. Fi’lia is the region’s first female-led restaurant where the menu is a culinary story through women’s generational travel, from the traditional to the modern take on recipes. Chef Sara will offer guests mouth-watering tastes such as the Bresaola Burrata Pizza or the 18-hour Veal Ragu. She has planned two one-off exclusive menus for Taste of Mondrian; Fi’Lia Take Over Party Brunch and Dolce Vita Dinner. Meat lovers are in for a special treat. Chef Luke Omarzu, from

CUT by Wolfgang Puck, has curated a Signature CUT Brunch and a CUT World Tour Dinner, a five-course exquisite menu showcasing signature CUT dishes. And caviar aficionados are invited to learn the Art of Mixology while savouring the best of 12 Chairs with Chef de Cuisine Marcus Riot. Activations are also planned across Mondrian’s many exceptional venues. Please tell us about them and how members of the public can get involved. Taste of Mondrian will fire up the weekend as guests are welcome to light up their evenings with special DIY mixed drinks at Smoke & Mirrors cigar lounge, which is inviting patrons to experience a unique evening of Dominican Republic cigar rolling with live entertainment. To further spice up the weekend and close out this extraordinary Taste of Mondrian showcase, a bold night awaits guests at Black Orchid with DJ Innellea. Hudson Tavern guests are in for a night of bespoke mixed drinks and whimsical beverage experiences at the Bar Take-Over evening by awardwinning Mixologist Ollie Hampton. On June 2, for Mondrian Moonstone, the hotel’s super-luxe ballroom will light up the evening with an enchanting performance by Guy Manoukian. The Lebanese-Armenian musician, composer and pianist, who has a prominent presence internationally, will treat guests to a surreal and unique experience. The evening will fire up with a performance by George Nehme, a voice that echoes Lebanon’s musical legacy. Tickets for Guy Manoukian and George Nehme’s first joint performance include a threecourse dinner, featuring Mondrian Doha’s haute-cuisine. Your anniversary campaign is titled ‘New You’, please tell us what guests and visitors can expect? We launched the ‘New You’ campaign to celebrate our fifth anniversary with an exclusive short film release and unbeatable offers across the award-winning culinary emporium and spa fact magazine

• ANNIVERSARY SPOTLIGHT The Covid period has been a great lesson to us all; it has taught us to be resilient, adaptive and bold. The experience also taught us to think outside the box, especially when it comes to overcoming current challenges and satisfying our guests’ needs, especially during such extraordinary times. We have launched ‘Taste-to-go’, Mondrian’s signature takeaway and delivery offer, which was among the first in the market following the onset of the pandemic, that allowed the hotel’s F&B outlets to continue operating and offering their menus to taste from the comfort of guests’ homes. Continuing to deliver on its online offering and collaborating with Qatar Tourism and the country’s leading food delivery platform Talabat, in April 2021, Mondrian joined ‘Chefs of Qatar’ Virtual Food Festival. Mondrian has become a privileged partner of Qatar’s tourism authority, hosting the launch of the festival in the presence of the participating chefs and the Secretary General, H.E. Akbar Al-Baker.

at Mondrian Doha. Each one of our award-winning restaurants will have an exclusive menu designed for this occasion with the number five as a common theme. ESPA is inspiring guests to revitalise and celebrate with a stunning offering ‘FIVE Wonders at ESPA’. Guests can select five treatments, ranging from facials, massages, hair treatments and a day pass to the pool and gym and enjoy an unforgettable wellness experience. Please check A New You deals on our social media and website. Offers are available till the end of October. Are there further events going on throughout the year to mark the anniversary? We like to surprise people. At this point I will just say expect more! What, for you, have been the main highlights of Mondrian Doha’s first five years? Over the past five years, Mondrian Doha has become an integral part of Qatar’s hospitality landscape, evolving as one of the major and must-visit luxury destinations in the region. Qatar’s community has embraced Mondrian’s eccentric, fashionable and contemporary identity. That was our biggest achievement and milestone! Innovation is what defines our brand. From the luxurious stay, through to our fine dining and eclectic nightlife offering, we always strive to remain bold in our approach to guests’ experiences. We take pride in our innovative approach that has enabled us to develop creative initiatives to offer our guests an extraordinary experience with each visit. Have there been any major challenges and how have you dealt with these? Mondrian Doha, like many other properties in the hospitality sector, was impacted by the onset of the pandemic. We had to adapt and overcome these challenges, incorporating enhanced safety standards, contactless and digital services, which will stay for the long term. 52

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What do the next five years look like for Mondrian Doha? We don’t know exactly what the next five will bring, but we know that we are excited about the possibilities! We will continue to bring new concepts to Qatar and the region, diversifying our food and beverage and entertainment options and, first and foremost, by putting our guests’ expectations above everything else. We will continue making Mondrian Doha a whimsical destination and an exceptional experience. What is the one thing that visitors absolutely must see or do at the hotel? We like to leave it to our guests. Each visitor experiences Mondrian differently. We invite our visitors to savour, taste and experience Mondrian Doha their way. ✤

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ALL-DAY DELICACIES Patisserie Chef Dimitris Chronopoulos was back in Qatar to develop new sweet specialities for Novecento at InterContinental Doha Beach & Spa. FACT took the chance to find out more about the man behind these delicious delicacies. 54

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CHEF IN FOCUS •

Of all the areas in the kitchen, what made you choose patisserie as your speciality? To be honest, my relationship with the art of pastry making was not a love at first sight, but love at first ‘bite’. What I mean is that, in the beginning I decided to get involved in it because it was an up-and-coming business field at that time. Yet, during my studies of it, there were some excellent professionals, some of my tutors, who revealed and unwrapped in front of my eyes the magic of this art. Since then, I have been in love with it and cannot imagine myself doing anything else for a living. Nothing can beat the beauty of this art. From pie-crust to choux, what is your secret to getting perfect results every time? Creating a prime and sophisticated piece of confectionary, either for a pastry shop or a high-end restaurant, is quite a complicated procedure. In other words, besides having the know-how, which comes through unending training, one should be patient and creative, work hard, stay stuck in the techniques and methodology, try to always stay updated with the new trends and practices, select the top-quality ingredients defying the cost, have aestheticism, be able to successfully combine different textures, colours and flavours, not be afraid to experiment with new things and ideas, have a good team, be adaptive and take initiatives et cetera. What are the three most important items to have in your kitchen at all times? It’s quite difficult to narrow them down to just three. However, I can tell you that a digital thermometer as well as a digital scale for high accuracy are considered to be extremely vital tools for

pastry chefs. Also, of course, a mixer is always highly required. If you had to choose one of your desserts to have as your last meal, what would it be? As you can understand is quite difficult for a ‘father’ to choose one of his brainchildren. All of them have their own beautifully different uniqueness. Also, I am a little dreamer, that’s why I keep dreaming that I will make much more sophisticated and delicious creations in the future. Yet, what I can tell you for sure is that the dessert that I would have as my last meal would not be without chocolate. I love chocolate! So, my Crème Brule Chocolate would definitely be one of my choices, simple but divine at the same time. Please tell us about the new menu items you have created for Novecento and how were they developed? To begin with, my cooperation with Novecento and the InterContinental Doha Beach & Spa is a great pleasure and honour to me. It is an amazing meeting place which can live up to the expectations of even the most demanding customers. From the luxurious and elegant, yet friendly and intimate, environment by the sea and the helpful staff to the delicacies served at this all-day restaurant; all can offer a pleasant experience to the guests. That’s why, the creation of the menu was a very challenging procedure. I wanted it to reflect the whole philosophy and unique identity of Novecento, and I hope that we did it. Using top-quality ingredients, modern techniques, based mainly on the French pastry making, local, Greek and French influences and imaginative combinations of flavours and textures, we created a wide range of confectioneries you can enjoy all day long. ✤ fact magazine

• CULINARY SPOTLIGHT

A BREATH OF FRESH FARE Ailsa Whyatt heads to IZU to discover a sophisticated yet exquisitely satisfying combination of flavours.

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CULINARY SPOTLIGHT •

ocated in the heart of Msheireb, the Mandarin Oriental plays host to a number of fabulous restaurants. We are at IZU tonight, to delight in the exquisitely fresh ‘panel de saveurs’ (‘layers of flavours’) – Chef Izu Ani’s Signature Set Menu that is both sophisticated and bursting with flavours. While the set menu features new and sublime dishes such as the light and refreshing Blueberry & Feta Salad, Salmon Sashimi, Grilled Spanish Octopus, Wagyu Striploin and Chef Izu’s special Fudge TiramIZU for dessert, we also try a host of other glorious creations. Our table overlooks the Barahat Msheireb town square and our server Christian, an experienced hand in fine dining, explains Chef Izu’s concept: high-end French-Mediterranean fine dining, balanced with a relaxed atmosphere. The freshest of ingredients, imported from all over the world; flavours here are beautiful and bold. Plush leather armchairs, hand-blown Venetian water glasses, heavy table linen and leather-bound paper menus give the restaurant a calming, understated feel, decorated simply with a sprig of vine-ripened cherry tomatoes, to detract nothing from the vibrant ingredients we are to encounter. Freshly baked bread is duly distributed, served simply; a piquant olive oil and sweet balsamic vinegar, before a glorious parade of the best that this menu has to offer. Salade de Feta et Myrtille, Salmon Sashimi Poulpe Espagnol, Wagyu Striploin, Tarte au Thon and Feta au Four are how we begin this delectable journey. Let me translate. Blueberry & Feta Salad: South African blueberries, sprinkled with creamy feta cheese, shavings of mint and drizzled in a homemade balsamic dressing. A beautiful twist of flavours, which serve as fact magazine

• CULINARY SPOTLIGHT the perfect, and most delicious palate opener. Salmon sashimi: Coral hued slices of raw salmon immaculately arranged; the salmon’s light, subtle flavours are balanced with its buttery goodness, creating a melt-in-your-mouth situation. Grilled Spanish Octopus: the star of the show. A sweet chilli glaze made with honey, oyster sauce and yuzu kosho (a chillibased, zesty Japanese paste), gives the à la plancha (grilled) octopus a warm kick, served with a cool avocado cream (secret ingredients include Japanese Kewpie Mayonnaise) and then scattered with lime zest and micro herbs. The octopus is tender and full of flavour, and the lime is a sublime diadem bringing everything together. My guest claimed he didn’t like octopus until trying this, but is now a reformed character, having seen sense with this glorious dish. Wagyu Striploin: An incomparable cut of premium steak, which is cooked to perfection; succulent, buttery and flavourful with a sweet umami flavour that accompanies top class Wagyu. Tuna Tart: soft yellow fin tuna sits atop a thin and crispy pizza base that has been tickled with wasabi cream and then dusted with piment d’espellete (an extremely rare chilli, hand harvested and grown only in the south of France’s Basque region). There is nothing overpowering about this dish; we are treated to delicate and perfectly complementing flavours in a fusion of culinary offerings. Baked feta cheese: do not write this off as ‘likely to be boring’. Boring it is not. A generous portion of feta (marinated for 24 hours in sumac, and ‘other secret ingredients’), served on a bed of the sweetest cherry tomatoes, roasted in honey and balsamic vinegar. Actually, sweet does not do them justice – they are luscious, juicy, little red bundles of joy. Chef Izu has then drizzled on some Kalamata olives, fresh oregano and parsley to produce something that is flavoursome and silky soft. Chef Suranga, one of IZU’s talented team, brings out our main courses. Ravioli Maison, Crevettes Géantes Tigrées and Homard Entier Roti. Garnished with feather-light lashings of ricotta and a smoky tomato jam, delicate spinach raviolis are infused with tarragon, garlic and nutmeg, adding a warmth and flavour that is both unexpected, and yet exactly perfect. Before I elaborate

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further on the king tiger prawns and the whole roasted lobster, you should know that these wonderful arthropods are blanched, then removed from their shells before having their finesse added, meaning that they are consumed with the merest aid from your cutlery – no longer will we do battle with crustacean shells, require lemon-fuelled finger bowls, or leave our tables looking like a shellfish rave. Chef Izu, I salute you. IZU’s Josper Charcoal Oven is responsible for roasting both our prawns and our lobster, giving them a delicious charcoal tang. The king tiger prawns are marinated in a yuzu ponzu sauce (another mainstay of Japanese cooking, although this house recipe contains not just lemon, but orange and pineapple juices as well), drizzled in a warming chilli butter and then peppered with smoky black garlic. Similarly, the whole roasted lobster (Canadian, in case you were wondering), crowns our table: we enjoy a smoked chilli butter, burnt lemon and fresh chives, which heighten the spectacular freshness of this sweet and succulent, delicately charcoaled meat. I am still dreaming about it… We just about squeeze in dessert – Chef Izu’s special Fudge TiramIZU. A nut-free chocolate brownie, a crunchy layer of chocolate tuile, upon which sits a proud mound of mascarpone, caramel sauce and raw cacao powder. A deeply velvety chocolate brownie, mascarpone as light as air and crunchy tuile end what has been an incredibly refined stroll through the Mediterranean and its sensational flavours. Outwardly simple, yet complex in its preparation, the food at IZU is a breath of fresh flavours. The food is crafted to sweep you on a journey reminiscent of farmers’ markets of old, where ingredients have been sourced and grown with love, and transformed into dishes that are interesting and really rather special. The Signature Set Menu experience is priced at QR380 per person and QR190 per person for grape pairing. ✤

GO: CALL 4008 8888 FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO MAKE A RESERVATION.

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SHAKING THINGS UP Kay Woodward heads to city favourite New York Steakhouse, to check out new menu items and some old favourites.

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ON THE MENU •

f you live in Doha, there’s every chance you’ve already been to New York Steakhouse (NYSH). Tucked away on the second floor of the Marriott Marquis City Center Doha, it’s classy, yet cosy, with plush carpets, wood panelling and a view of vibrant West Bay. It’s got a great atmosphere too. A stalwart of the Doha dining scene, NYSH has been regularly packing in the clientele for years and is as famous for its first-class steaks as it is for its iconic brunch. We’re delighted to be going back, especially when we hear that this consistently excellent steakhouse just got even better. Why? Because Peruvian chef Richard Ruiz is shaking things up. Jamil – the friendly front-of-house who hails from Zanzibar and is visibly bursting with enthusiasm about the revamped menu – can’t wait to reveal what’s new at the iconic Big Apple Brunch. There’s the New York Striploin for one. The Crunchy Calamari for another. The Southern Ribs Flapjacks… Mmm. But Jamil reassures us that a satisfying number of old favourites remain. Repeat diners will not be disappointed. Appetites thoroughly whetted, we enjoy the melodic jazzy background music while we wait. The Bright Side appetisers arrive on a wooden paddle and we start with the Knuckle Sandwich. That isn’t a euphemism, but a hilariously inventive name for an appetiser that whacks us in the taste buds with flavour. Thinly sliced pastrami is paired with Edam, truffle mustard and Bulldog sauce. The Staten Island 36 is new – a reinvented hot dog that’s reminiscent of a day out at the ballpark, but with subtle scallop and lobster overtones. It’s a winner! And then there’s the Williamsburg Standard Toast – a classic combination of crushed avocado on sourdough, topped with a beautifully blistered fact magazine

• ON THE MENU

tomato and a perfect quail’s egg. The East 65th Burger Junior – the bun branded with a cool New York Steakhouse stamp – is super succulent. Like all the meat here, it’s cooked medium as standard. Prefer medium-rare? All you have to do is ask. The Hudson Valley Carpaccio arrives. It’s prime tenderloin with truffle mayo, shimeji mushrooms, pickles and such a sensational combination of textures. Scallops are topped with dainty heaps of crispy quinoa, interspersed with orange segments and dots of vermillion-red sauce. Seriously, it’s art on a plate. The Fulton Street Seafood Tower is named after the famous New York fish market, which dates back to 1822. It’s an eyepopping masterpiece. As the billowing dry ice clears, two layers of delectable seafood are revealed: poached Canadian lobster, Alaskan King Crab, giant prawns, oysters, octopus ceviche and tuna sashimi. And it doesn’t just look amazing, all the seafood is top quality and perfectly chilled, but the star of the show is the octopus ceviche. Finely chopped, it mingles with firm, crispy cucumber, a hint of chilli and has a coriander finish. Divine. Time for a prawn cocktail amuse-bouche! There’s mildly spiced salsa with the satisfying crunch of tiny red onions, topped off with a prawn. Yum. It’s a prawn-shaped comma that allows us to pause briefly, probably the most delicious punctuation in Doha. The chef takes a break to pop over and tell us a little about himself. Richard Ruiz has always loved to cook. He’s from Lima and his mother’s restaurant was the springboard that launched him into a globetrotting career spent in Chile, Colombia, Egypt, Dubai and now Qatar. He’s thrilled to be at NYSH and has worked hard to reimagine the menu. “Everything is homemade,” he says proudly. It’s freshly made too. There are no soggy salads here. Jamil himself constructs custom Caesar Salads and delivers them 62

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right away with a bespoke selection of baby gem lettuce, egg yolk, anchovies, tabasco, parmesan and Worcestershire sauce. And the last thing the chef wants is to see an empty table. At brunch, Ruiz has one eye on the kitchen and one on the diners. If he spots guests without food, he instantly sends more delectable dishes. Talking of which, the New York Specials are on their way. NYSH’s bestseller is undoubtedly the Beef Cheek and rightly so. Its soft juiciness is juxtaposed with truffled celery root, pecorino and a fried egg. But we rather like the Southern Ribs Flapjacks too. Grape-braised short ribs nestle inside corn flapjacks, accompanied by a tangy yet sweet tomato dip. It’s new, quirky and fun. Canal and Mott Longevity Noodles brim with flavour – shiitake mushrooms, garlic chives, soy and oyster caramel. Moreish? Oh, yes. Now, for the Tomahawk trolley, with a slow-roasted tomahawk rack and lots of lovely mustards. Luscious slices are carved to order. They’re SO good… The desserts – if you have room for them – are sublime. Spaceage nitrogen vanilla ice cream. A classic cheesecake. And the salted-chocolate-pretzel extravaganza is beyond awesome. There’s even a cheeseboard of champions. According to Ruiz, dinner is a tradition, but brunch is a chance to be creative and experiment. New York Steakhouse’s Big Apple Brunch shows that his experiment has more than paid off. New York, New York. It’s a wonderful brunch. ✤

GO: CALL 4419 5510 FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO MAKE A RESERVATION.

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A LITTLE JE NE SAIS QUOI! In a city filled with French restaurants and cafés, Kalvin Ng finds La Parisienne stands out by offering tasty bistro dishes in a casual, relaxed setting.

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FOODIE CORNER •

et’s start with the décor. Situated on the ground floor of the Intercontinental Doha - The City, the first sign of this little corner of Paris in Qatar is the characteristic red-and-white rattan bistro chairs on the terrace by the entrance. The Parisian theme continues inside, with impressionist-inspired paintings depicting life in the City of Lights. A traditional ‘boulangerie-patisserie’ sign above the counter extends into a mural to create the impression of a quaint, neighbourhood bakery where you can buy freshlybaked bread, pastries and cakes, and take a slice of France home with you – pun intended. However, far from being a kitschy interpretation of a French café, La Parisienne is modern and sophisticated, with a wideranging menu of French classics for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Executive Chef Oliver Weber prepares our appetite with a truffle-infused baked camembert, the soft, creamy texture accompanying well with baguettes. If you’re in the mood for pizza but don’t feel like having anything heavy with cheese or dough, La Parisienne has just the answer: Flammekuchen, or tarte flambée. A speciality of the Alsace region in eastern France on the border with Germany, Flammekuchen has a wafer-thin dough with a light spreading of sour cream, beef bacon, onion and leek. Imagine a crispy and light wood-fired pizza, perfect as a snack or a meal on its own with a side salad. Next, it’s onto southern France and one of its most comforting foods: cassoulet. A slow-cooked meat stew of duck leg, sausages and white beans, the dish is hearty and warm, yet avoids being too heavy. It’s the culinary equivalent of a hug. The confit duck leg was full of flavour and fell off the bone.

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• FOODIE CORNER This was followed by melted raclette cheese over baby potatoes, served with a selection of European cold cuts. The cheese was velvety smooth with a slight nutty flavour. Both the raclette and cassoulet feature as chef’s specials on the menu. Although our stomachs were rather full by now, no visit to a French restaurant can be complete without dessert. In fact, I haven’t come across many French people who’d deny their sweet tooth. The Crème Brûlée waffle is one of the standout dishes, combining two dessert favourites with fresh fruit and mascarpone. Same goes for the lightly baked cheesecake, delicately caramelised on the top with a gold leaf, and served in a specially-designed wooden box. However, I couldn’t complete the meal without trying one of La Parisienne’s signature homemade crêpes. Light and fluffy crêpes were drizzled with fresh berries, bananas and syrup, evoking memories of crêperies in Paris. The desserts were generously sized to be shared among friends, if you can stop yourself from devouring them all. For a little taste of France in Doha, La Parisienne is an ideal destination for a casual get-together with friends or a family-friendly meal with plenty of pocket-friendly options for everyone and it's open daily from 7am to 10pm. ✤

GO: CALL 4015 8888 FOR FURTHER INFORMATION OR TO MAKE A RESERVATION.

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TAPPING INTO A NEW FAVOURITE Ailsa Whyatt visits the newly opened Black Tap for burgers galore and shakes beyond reason.

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NEW IN TOWN •

t’s Wednesday evening and we are in Mall of Qatar, heading to the newly opened Black Tap Craft Burgers & Shakes. Black Tap hails from Downtown NYC and has been steadily expanding globally, bringing its gastro burgers and (absolutely) CrazyShakes to the world. It’s a self-confessed stalwart of the Instagram generation and nobody can deny that their whimsical CrazyShakes are a kooky art form in themselves and yes, we do take MANY pictures. Our lovely server Jex seats us; we sit outside the main restaurant to enjoy the fountains, the waterwall and the greenery in the Food Court. Don’t miss out on a trip inside though. You can sit in booths, which form the ‘speakers’ of an old-fashioned stereo. Be dazzled by bright lights and spot black and white base décor, walls of graffiti and finally the CrazyShake bar: an Aladdin’s Cave of nostalgic sweetie jars, where these creations (and make no mistake, they really are creations to behold) are whipped up. Restaurant Manager Majd serves us a Kiwi Ginger Mule mocktail – beautifully presented in a hammered copper tankard, topped with a slice of fresh kiwi and dried ginger – and then the food commences. Atomic Shrimp, Teriyaki Broccoli, Guac & Chips and Buttermilk Fried Chicken Tenders are delivered, all served on blackrimmed white dishes. There is nothing worse than overcooked veg – I like my greens to be just that, green. The Teriyaki Broccoli is exactly the injection of health we need to satisfy ourselves that we can now indulge with impunity. It packs the perfect crunch, with just a hint of char, and is drizzled in a moreish gingery teriyaki sauce. If you are a fan of chicken tenders, look no further! It is rare to find un-greasy ones, but Black Tap have succeeded. The Buttermilk fact magazine

• NEW IN TOWN Fried Chicken Tenders are succulent and soft, served with three dips, my personal favourite being the buttermilk-dill. Dill is, in my opinion, a much-maligned herb, relegated too frequently to the ranks of ‘must only be served with salmon’. At Black Tap they use it in a number of their dishes, and they are all the better for it. And so, to burgers. If you are a fan of meat, meat and more meat, try The Mulberry Street Burger. Not only is the patty juicy and perfectly cooked (incidentally made with Greater Omaha USA Beef, a standard upheld across the Black Tap brand for all burgers), but it’s served in a potato bun and then laden with beef bresaola and beef salami, not to mention provolone and parmesan, and spiced up with some hot cherry peppers for a bit of umph. If a bit of smoky barbeque flavour (and dill, of course) is your thing then I can wholeheartedly recommend The Carolina Burger. Another medium-rare patty, oozing with flavour, smoky pulled beef (which has spent nearly four hours readying itself for your plate), crunchy coleslaw, buttermilk dill and American cheese, all combine to make ‘an orchestra of yum’ play out in my mouth. There is a burger for everyone here – vegan beef patties topped with mushrooms and horseradish; truffles; even pear bacon and jam with blue cheese – to name but a few, as well as a further list of add-ons, if you can find space on your burger. There are also chicken and fish options, burger salads and a children’s menu for younger diners. The pièce de résistance? CrazyShakes. We are immediately transported back to the sweetie shops of our childhoods as gum balls, stack up ice lollies, rainbow popcorn, Skittles, m&m’s, peanut butter cups, pretzel sticks, OREOs, whirly pops, candyfloss and so many more, adorn a range of the most impressive shakes I have ever seen. These shakes are fun, and quite the production – dinner and a show has never been easier! They are all so stunningly presented that we can’t help but sample four CrazyShakes… Cookies ‘N Cream Supreme (OREO shake), Cotton Candy (strawberry), Old School Drive In (bubble gum) and Sweet ‘N Salty (peanut butter shake). Each shake has its own personality and flavour, but what they all have in common is the edible decorations encrusting the frosting on the glasses, whipped cream, drizzles of sauce and garnishes of sweets. You would be forgiven for thinking you had arrived in a Charlie and the Chocolate Factory shake room – you really have to see them to believe them, and you won’t be able to stop yourself from taking a photo. Having opened its doors on May 8, 2022, Black Tap is a newbie to

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the Qatar scene, but there is no outward appearance of it being anything other than a well-established, truly gourmet burger joint, with the added theatre of its over-the-top, back-to-school CrazyShakes. The company’s stated mission is ‘Fun. Familiar. Genuine. Quality.’ They have nailed it. ✤

GO: CALL 1710 0363 FOR FURTHER INFORMATION OR TO MAKE A RESERVATION.

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• DINING DEALS

LOVE YOUR LUNCH

Enjoy this month’s selection of special offers, including family brunches and lovely afternoon teas.

FOUR SEASONS HOTEL DOHA Elements Sail over to Elements’ Seafood night and enjoy a delicious seafood buffet featuring a wide selection of favorites including salmon, shrimps, lobster, oyster and many more. The offer runs every Wednesday from 7pm to 10.30pm and is priced at QR275 per person inclusive of water and QR465 per person inclusive of a sparkling package. GO: Call 4494 8600 or email res.doha@fourseasons.com for more information or to make a reservation.

DUSIT DOHA HOTEL Benjarong Benjarong conjures up the authentic flavours and the vibrancy of Thailand in a fresh, new brunch experience. Indulge in a perfectly balanced wide selection of traditional Thai dishes, served family-style. The offer runs every Saturday from 12.30pm to 4pm and is priced at QR240, inclusive of soft beverages, and QR348, inclusive of selected beverages. If you use The Entertainer, you get one brunch for free, applicable to the soft beverage package only. GO: Call 4004 4444 for more information or to make a reservation.

HAKKASAN DOHA Award-winning Cantonese restaurant Hakkasan Doha welcomes guests to its lounge terrace for Hakkatini Nights that come to life with sunset, pre-dinner or after-dinner late night bites and 72

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drinks. The offer runs daily from 6pm to 11.30pm and is priced at QR98 per person. GO: Call 4446 0170 or email reservation.hakkasan@stregis.com for more information or to make a reservation.

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA BEACH & SPA Mykonos Enjoy a relaxed Greek Business Lunch at Mykonos’ beautiful terrace overlooking pool and ocean views. Choose a starter, main course, and a traditional Greek dessert. The three-course offer is available Sunday to Wednesday from 12pm to 4pm and is priced at QR115 per person. GO: Call 4484 4919 or email fb.icdoha@ihg.com for more information or to make a reservation.

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INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA – THE CITY La Parisienne Doha Enjoy a day of Raclette featuring slices of runny melted cheese over potatoes with fresh baguette, gherkins and cold cuts. The offer runs every Friday and is priced at QR68, and QR120 inclusive of free-flowing selected beverages for two hours straight. GO: Call or WhatsApp 7021 8803 for more information or to make a reservation.

JW MARRIOTT MARQUIS CITY CENTER DOHA Fuego Take a culinary trip to Fuego and enjoy a pre-plated Papagayo Brunch experience complemented with live entertainment inspired by Latin America without leaving Doha. The offer runs every Friday from 1pm to 4pm and is priced at QR280, inclusive of soft beverages, and QR380, inclusive of selected beverages. GO: Call or WhatsApp 5506 2798 for more information or to make a reservation.

MARRIOTT MARQUIS CITY CENTER DOHA HOTEL New York Steakhouse The all-time favourite Big Apple Brunch has an incredible new line-up of dishes on the menu. Whether you are a carnivore or seafood lover you’re sure to find something you love at The Big Apple Brunch. The family-friendly brunch celebrates swish dishes like Wall Street Benedict and Williamsburg standard toast, expertly grilled steaks cooked from prime cuts of meat, oceanic favourites, deliciously blended salads, and an exclusive selection of desserts to top of your feast. Wash your brunch down with a selection of specialty drinks, mocktails, and live entertainment! The offer runs every Friday from 12pm to 4pm and is priced at QR495, inclusive of soft drinks, and QR595, inclusive of selected drinks. GO: Call 4419 5510 or WhatsApp 6643 6890 for more information or to make a reservation.

PARK HYATT DOHA Sora Enjoy the Sora Sky Brunch with family and friends with a delectable Japanese sharing-style menu, refreshing special beverages, and live DJ entertainment on the sophisticated 21st floor panoramic terrace overlooking Doha’s picturesque skyline. The offer runs every Friday from 12.30pm to 4pm and is priced at QR275 inclusive of soft beverages and QR399 inclusive of enhanced beverages. GO: Call 4009 1234 for more information or to make a reservation.

MARSA MALAZ KEMPINSKI, THE PEARL – DOHA

RADISSON BLU HOTEL, DOHA

Café Murano Your mornings set the tone of the day. Make it a charming one with a breakfast experience at Café Murano. Feast your way through the revamped Breakfast@Kempinski menu featuring thoughtfully curated tempting delicacies and breakfast favourites in the exquisite setting of the European-inspired café. From freshly baked pastries to sumptuous savoury dishes, there’s an indulgent spread of plates for you to enjoy. The offer for two runs daily from 8am to 1pm and is priced at QR95 per person. GO: Call or WhatsApp 7449 6058 for more information or to make a reservation.

The Italian Job Join for an exotic duo of tagliatelle pasta with your choice of a mocktail or selected beverage. The offer is available daily from June 15 till June 31, 6pm to 11pm, excluding Mondays, and is priced at QR139 per person. GO: Call 4428 1555 or email fbreservations.doha@radissonblu. com for more information or to make a reservation.

MONDRIAN DOHA Morimoto Enjoy a Sushi and Steak Night at Morimoto. The offer runs every Sunday from 6pm to 10pm and is priced at QR222. GO: Call 4045 5555 for more information or to make a reservation.

SHERATON GRAND DOHA RESORT & CONVENTION HOTEL Al Hubara Enjoy a Hayakum Night and indulge in mouth-watering flavours from local Qatari cuisines to international dishes under the classic golden domes of Al Hubara. The offer runs every Saturday from 12.30pm to 3.30pm and is priced at QR215 per person. GO: Call 4485 3000, WhatsApp 5594 9701, or email F&Breservations.doha@sheratonhotels.com for more information or to make a reservation. fact magazine

• FACT DINING AWARDS

The eagerly awaited Fact Dining Awards Doha returned with a bang in a lavish outdoor ceremony at which guests enjoyed the return of a proper face-to-face celebration, our first proper party since the start of the pandemic. And, boy, was it fun! After months of meticulous planning and with the help of our generous partners: Antika at Marsa Malaz Kempinski, The Pearl; Mitsubishi Motors Qatar; Firma Events; Floward and Qinwan, the awards were handed out to our excited winners, who represented the crème de la crème of Qatar’s unique dining scene. Two winners were chosen in each category – the Favourites, which were picked by public vote, and the Best, as decided by a panel of industry experts and anonymous judges. This year there were 84 winners, across 42 categories, ranging from

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steakhouse and seafood to regional cuisines and lounges, as well as the Overall Favourite Restaurant, taken by Moritmoto at Mondrian, Doha, and Overall Best Restaurant, won by COYA Doha at W Doha Hotel & Residences, Qatar.

There were more than 435 entries and 56,000-plus unique online votes cast by the public, with winners receiving the coveted Fact Dining Awards Doha 2022 plaques. FACT Magazine Qatar publishing director, Chirine Halabi, said: “It’s another awards ceremony and I’m so happy to be hosting it again. FACT has really become the leader of the awards in Qatar and the turnout, despite the circumstances, is always incredible. We become very emotional, myself and the team, to see this fantastic turnout every year of such great personalities and successful people. “We at FACT are incredibly grateful to all our partners, the dining sector and our readers and voters. I’d like to say a big personal thank you to everyone and we look forward to welcoming you all again next year.” ✤

FACT DINING AWARDS •

WINNERS: FACT DINING AWARDS QATAR 2022 AL FRESCO DINING

FAVOURITE - Walima – Mondrian Doha BEST - Shirvan Métisse – Porto Arabia Drive, The Pearl-Qatar

ALL DAY DINING

FAVOURITE - Sridan – JW Marriott Marquis City Center Doha BEST - Coral – InterContinental Doha

BREAKFAST

FAVOURITE - Twisted Olive – Burj Doha Tower, Qatar BEST - Seasonal Tastes – The Westin Doha Hotel & Spa

CASUAL DINING

FAVOURITE - Volume Café – Qanat Quartier, The Pearl-Qatar BEST - Crossroads Kitchen – Marriott Marquis City Center Doha Hotel

IN MALL

FAVOURITE - Joe’s Café – Galleries Lafayette, Doha BEST - Vapiano – The Gate Mall, Qatar

NEW IN TOWN

FAVOURITE - Ninja Ramen – Doha, Qatar BEST - IKA – Aleph Doha Residences

BUSINESS LUNCH

FAVOURITE - Fuego Business Lunch – JW Marriott Marquis City Center Doha BEST - Market by Jean-Georges – W Doha Hotel & Residences, Qatar

FAMILY FRIENDLY BRUNCH

FAVOURITE - Baladna – Various Locations BEST - Friday Brunch at Le Cigalon – La Cigale Hotel Managed by Accor, Doha

FRIDAY BRUNCH

FAVOURITE - Koi at Shanghai Club – JW Marriott Marquis City Center Doha BEST - Grand Brunch at Vine – The St. Regis Doha

SATURDAY BRUNCH

FAVOURITE - Yum Cha at Deli Kitchen – Al Messila, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Doha BEST - Gaucho Brunch at Hunters Room & Grill – The Westin Doha Hotel & Spa

SOCIAL BRUNCH

FAVOURITE - Vertigo Brunch – Banyan Tree Doha BEST - COYA Doha – W Doha Hotel & Residences, Qatar

CHINESE

FAVOURITE - Liang – Mandarin Oriental, Doha BEST - Hakkasan Doha – The St. Regis Doha

EUROPEAN

FAVOURITE - Bentley’s Grill – Radisson Blu Hotel Doha BEST - BiBo Dani Garcia – The St. Regis Doha

INDIAN

FAVOURITE - Bombay Balti – Radisson Blu Hotel Doha BEST- Riyasat Doha – The St. Regis Doha

INTERNATIONAL

FAVOURITE - Al Hubara – Sheraton Grand Doha Resort & Convention Hotel BEST - Timeless – Marina Towers, Lusail, Qatar

ITALIAN CASUAL DINING

FAVOURITE - Dante Cucina Italiana – Hilton Salwa Beach Resort & Villas, Qatar BEST - Paper Moon – Jaidah Square, Qatar

ITALIAN FINE DINING

FAVOURITE - Sasso – Al Hazm, Qatar BEST - Scalini – Al Gassar Resort, Qatar

JAPANESE

FAVOURITE - Sora – Park Hyatt Doha BEST - Nozomi – Marsa Malaz Kempinski, The Pearl-Qatar

LATIN AMERICAN

FAVOURITE - Toro Toro – Marsa Malaz Kempinski, The Pearl-Qatar BEST - La Mar Doha by Gastón Acurio – InterContinental Doha

LEBANESE

FAVOURITE - Debs W Remman – Various Locations, Qatar BEST - Beyt El Talleh – Katara Cultural Village, Qatar

MEDITERRANEAN

FAVOURITE - La Casa Twenty eight, The Pearl-Qatar BEST - IZU – Mandarin Oriental, Doha

MIDDLE EASTERN

FAVOURITE - Shay Al Shoomos – Souq Waqif, Qatar BEST - Smat – Doha - Qatar

PAN ASIAN

FAVOURITE - Zengo – Kempinski Residences and Suites, Qatar BEST - Trader Vic’s – Hilton Doha

THAI

FAVOURITE - Saffron – Banyan Tree Doha BEST - Benjarong Doha – Dusit Doha Hotel

TURKISH

FAVOURITE - Sukar Pasha – Katara Cultural Village, Qatar BEST - Sazeli – Various Locations, Qatar

BAR

FAVOURITE - Champions Bar – Marriott Marquis City Center Doha Hotel BEST - Brewskis and Grub – Crowne Plaza Doha West Bay

CAFÉ

FAVOURITE - Harvest Coffee – The Pearl-Qatar BEST - Flat White Specialty Coffee – Various Locations, Qatar fact magazine

• FACT DINING AWARDS

LOUNGE

FAVOURITE - B-Lounge – The RitzCarlton, Doha BEST - Manko – InterContinental Doha

OUTDOOR BAR

FAVOURITE - Infinity Rooftop Lounge – Alwadi Hotel Doha – MGallery by Accor BEST - Antika Lounge – Marsa Malaz Kempinksi, The Pearl-Qatar

POOLSIDE

FAVOURITE - Pool Grill – Four Seasons Hotel Doha BEST - Pool Café – Sheraton Grand Doha Resort & Convention Hotel

PUB

SHEESHA LOUNGE

SEAFOOD

SUNDOWNERS

STEAKHOUSE

SHE’S OUT

RAMADAN TENT

FAVOURITE - Al Jalsa Garden Lounge – InterContinental Doha – The City BEST - HuqqA – The St. Regis Doha

FAVOURITE - Aqua Lounge – Marriott Marquis City Center Doha Hotel BEST - Sky View Lounge – La Cigale Hotel Managed by Accor, Doha

FAVOURITE - Nobu – Four Seasons Hotel Doha BEST - The Secret Garden – Marsa Malaz Kempinski, The Pearl-Qatar

FAVOURITE - L’wzaar Seafood Market – Katara Cultural Village, Qatar BEST - La Mar Doha by Gastón Acurio – InterContinental Doha

FAVOURITE - CUT by Wolfgang Puck – Mondrian Doha BEST - New York Steakhouse – Marriott Marquis City Center Doha Hotel

FAVOURITE - Hilton Doha BEST - Sharq Village & Spa, a RitzCarlton Hotel Doha

RAMADAN AT HOME

FAVOURITE - The League – Hilton Salwa Beach Resort & Villas, Qatar BEST - Belgian Café – InterContinental Doha

DESSERT PARLOUR

FAVOURITE - W Café – W Doha Hotel & Residences, Qatar BEST - EllaMia – Mondrian Doha

FAVOURITE - Hyatt Regency Oryx Doha BEST - Marriott Marquis City Center Doha

TEA ROOM

BURGER JOINT

FAVOURITE OVERALL

FAVOURITE - AtTEAtude Tea Lounge & Terrace – Alwadi Hotel Doha – MGallery by Accor BEST - Sarab Lounge – The St. Regis Doha

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FAVOURITE - Bondi Burgers – Centara West Bay Hotel & Residences, Qatar BEST - Meatsmith Doha – The PearlQatar

Morimoto – Mondrian Doha

BEST OVERALL COYA Doha – W Doha Hotel & Residences, Qatar

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• FACT DINING AWARDS

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• FACT DINING AWARDS

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• FACT DINING AWARDS

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LUXURY, SERVICE AND LOCATION An unforgettable two days and nights in one of Europe’s most enchanting cities at the Mandarin Oriental, Barcelona.

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TRAVEL •

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• TRAVEL

arcelona! Everyone has heard the name of this famous European city, but until you have walked the streets, sampled the cuisine and spent time with the spirited locals, you have no idea how wonderful this cosmopolitan city truly is. This month, Team FACT were invited, by the worldrenowned Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group, to spend two unforgettable days and nights at their highly sought-after location in Barcelona. Of course, we gratefully accepted and, within a few short days, found ourselves touching down on the north-eastern coast of Spain, at Barcelona International Airport, ready to start our Catalonian adventure.

Our Arrival As we made our way to the hotel, we were soon captivated by the city’s mind-blowing architecture, along with the hustle and bustle of the busy streets. By the time we pulled up at the Mandarin Oriental, we knew we had to spend a considerable amount of our time exploring this enthralling metropolis. The moment our ride stopped at the main entrance, we were greeted by friendly and attentive staff, ready to assist us in any way possible. After a hassle-free check in, I soon found myself in my Mandarin Junior Suite, smiling from ear-to-ear at what was to be my home base for the next two days and nights. The Mandarin Oriental, Barcelona is a five-star, contemporary hotel located in the heart of the city’s famous Passeig de Gracia. It contains 120 rooms and suites, 86

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along with several dining spots, meeting facilities, beautiful gardens and an award-wining spa. With an array of even grander suites than my own available, it’s no surprise that the rich and famous frequent this luxurious location. The first feature I noticed about my junior suite, aside from the spacious nature of the room, was the welcoming arrangement left for me on the table. An assortment of nuts, dried fruits, fresh fruit juices, bottled waters and desserts, along with a fresh fruit platter, was a beautiful touch and a great way to start my stay. Custom-made woven rugs, high-quality leather furniture and light-wood floors, all adorn the Junior Suites, further adding to the deluxe experience. A terrace overlooking the hotel’s Mimosa Garden was yet another great feature, along with the glass-enclosed bathroom, containing a rain-forest, walk-in shower. A 24-hour butler service is on offer for all suites, ensuring your every desire is immediately attended to.

Fine Dining Over the course of our stay, we were fortunate enough to experience some of the outstanding culinary locations housed within the hotel.

Moments It didn’t take us long to work out why Moments is The Mandarin Oriental’s premium restaurant. This awardwining location is managed by multi-Michelin-Star winner, Carme Ruscalleda, and boasts a menu second to none. The fresh and healthy cuisine, inspired by Catalan culinary culture, is creatively presented and tastes sublime. The beautiful décor helps to create a magical atmosphere that further adds to this already outstanding culinary experience.

Blanc This all-day-dining venue proved to be an exceptional restaurant, featuring striking décor and a superb menu. The à la carte breakfasts, with their vast spread of fresh fruits, organic yoghurts, bagels, fresh pastries, wide range of eggs and cereals, along with a selection of Catalan traditional breakfast options, provided us with the perfect start to our days.

Terrat If you’re a fan of Peruvian food, visit Mandarin Oriental, Barcelona’s Terrat rooftop terrace which is on the ninth floor, with 360º panoramic views. It offers guests a wide variety of beverages and a delicious selection of Peruvian delights as well as recipes from international star Chef Gastón Acurio. Treats include ceviches, tiraditos and a wide range of cocktails available until late night. It’s the perfect choice for enjoying the gentle Barcelona breeze and spectacular views during the season. The hotel's other excellent venues include Bankere's Bar, with a ceiling covered in old safety deposit boxes; and Mimosa Garden, an exclusive al fresco venue filled with lavender and sunshine. fact magazine

• TRAVEL

Spa & Wellness During our stay at Mandarin Oriental, we were excited to experience the hotel’s celebrated spa. With seven treatment rooms, a 12-meter spa lap pool, an Oriental steam room, a relaxation area, a fully-equipped fitness centre and a spa boutique, this venue is well-equipped to say the least. I was lucky enough to undergo the Exclusive Energising Men’s Facial Treatment. Specifically designed to reduce wrinkles and fine lines, this treatment left my skin feeling soft yet toned, and I couldn’t remember the last time my complexion looked so radiant. For great feeling youthful skin, we highly recommend the amazing facial treatments by Valmont offered at this facility.

Barcelona Central Thanks to Mandarin Oriental’s central location, the best of Barcelona was literally on our doorstep, and we took full advantage of our free time to explore as much of this magnificent area as we possibly could over two days. Starting at the Plaça Catalunya, Barcelona’s main square, we strolled the avant-garde district of Passeig de Gràcia, feeling spoilt for choice with all that was on offer. Architecture being our primary fascination, we made sure to take in all of the exceptional structures around us. ‘Modernist’ buildings, luxury boutiques and upscale restaurants, all adorn this tourist-friendly area, and we thoroughly enjoyed the sociable locals we encountered along the way. A little further out and the bold architecture becomes even more extraordinary. Our favourite structures included the fantastical themed Casa Batlló, with its pastel-coloured

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“

The Mandarin Oriental, Barcelona is a five-star, contemporary hotel located in the heart of the city’s famous Passeig de Gracia.”

mosaic front and a roof shaped like a dragon’s tail, along with La Pedrera, with its stunning internal spiral staircase, and 360-degree view from the roof. Barcelona is without a doubt, a vibrant and beautiful city.

All Good Things Come to an End All too soon, it was time to say goodbye to Barcelona and the Mandarin Oriental Hotel. Having thoroughly enjoyed our stay, we relived our experiences on the six-and-a-halfhour flight home. The luxurious rooms, the friendly hotel staff, the delicious cuisine and beautiful city sites, all made for an unforgettable adventure. However, we did decide we would have to return, as we had only touched the surface of what the magical city of Barcelona has to offer. ✤

GO: VISIT MANDARINORIENTAL.COM FOR FURTHER INFORMATION OR TO MAKE A RESERVATION.

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• ENTERTAINMENT

BIG SCREEN The Andy Warhol Diaries Need to Know:

A 2022 documentary series following the memoirs of American artist Andy Warhol edited by his friend Pat Hackett. It’s a six-part documentary that looks at Warhol behind the theatrics and the persona he portrayed. Using Warhol's personal diary entries we get to see a different side of him. This is a highly immersive documentary as the story is told in part in the artist’s AI-generated voice.

Directors: Andrew Rossi

Why Is It Worth Watching?

Andy Warhol is considered one of the most innovative artists of his time, playing a significant role in bringing pop art and modern art into the public eye. He was an important visual artist as his works spanned paintings, prints and movies. His works remain iconic to this day, such as the Campbell soup cans. Many of his pieces are displayed on mugs, T-shirts, tote bags, stickers and more. If you’ve ever wondered about the man behind the art, The Andy Warhol Diaries is for you. The documentary format is mesmerising, with a visually stunning intro and the perfect soundtrack tying it all together. It is also highly informative as we get to hear from those who knew him as well as Warhol's intimate thoughts. And, even though there is a significant focus on Warhol's personal life and unique personality, the documentary also presents a comprehensive view of his art, showing how he developed his style and experimented through the years. The artist’s own opinions on his work are particularly interesting, as he often prioritised money and fame over artistic integrity. This is a must-watch for artists as well as history nerds or just anyone who wants to see a well-produced and entertaining documentary.

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"The documentary format is mesmerising, with a visually stunning intro and the perfect soundtrack tying it all together.

Senior Year Need to Know:

A 2022 comedy movie starring Rebel Wilson as the lead, the film follows Stephanie Conway, a 17-year-old high school cheerleader who is on the path to achieving her dream life. However, after a cheerleading accident, she is left in a coma for 20 years and must work out how to continue her life when she wakes up. Even though the story sounds dark and sad, the movie is lighthearted and comedic.

Director: Alex Hardcastle Cast: Rebel Wilson, Angourie Rice, Mary Holland, Zoë Chao, Chris Parnell, Sam Richardson

Why Is It Worth Watching?

This is a hilarious movie, and you'll get much more than a couple of laughs from it. Rebel Wilson is funny in the role of 37-year-old Stephanie, as she wakes up after 20 years with the mentality of a 17-year-old. The jokes are simple and sometimes nonsensical, but it's clear that the film doesn't take itself very seriously. After losing 20 years, Stephanie is set on getting her 'perfect life' back. Her main goals are getting popular, joining the cheer squad again and winning prom queen while trying to reconnect with her once best friends. However, she finds much has changed as her y2k fashion is no longer in, and technology becomes a struggle. The plot is simplistic, and so are the characters and the random musical numbers are slightly off-putting, but overall, the movie is pretty entertaining. A good film to watch to de-stress and have a few good giggles.

ENTERTAINMENT •

ON THE RECORD

FULLY BOOKED

FICTION

All My Rage

POP FUNK/POP ROCK

ALTERNATIVE/INDIE

Harry’s House By Harry Styles

C’mon You Know By Liam Gallagher

The third studio album by the English singer and songwriter, featuring 13 tracks, it has received widespread critical acclaim. It’s supported by two singles – As It Was – a TikTok sensation – and Late Night Talking – the first song on the LP to be written. The name of the album is inspired by Japanese music and song artist, Haruomi Hosono’s Hosono’s House, which released in the 1970s. Incidentally, Harry kicks things off with Music For A Sushi Restaurant, a number evoking subtle, sensual imagery, perfect for that night out All the songs have easy-to-sing lyrics that you will relate to. They touch upon the shades of love, a major theme – pursuing someone, as in Satellite and Cinema; the pain of separation voiced on Love Of My Life and Daylight. Conversational lyrics bring out the vulnerability and fragility of emotions in this one. The sound of the album has 1970s influences with the use of synths and horns; you can also pick up R&B. It features John Mayer on lead guitar on Cinema and Daydreaming. While there are groovy numbers that will have you snapping your fingers and swaying your head from side to side, the album also offers tracks such as Boyfriends and Keep Driving the perfect background score to a long drive – which put you in a relaxed mood. An interesting factoid about Boyfriends is that it's the only song that wasn’t written in 2020 and 2021; Harry began writing it during the final week of recording on his second studio album Fine Line which was released in 2019.

The third solo studio album by English musician Liam Gallagher. In it, he is said to have moved away from his usual tough self, exploring softer realms with both the music and song writing, making it a compelling listen. With most music enthusiasts calling it generally wellreceived, Liam himself believes it to be “odd” – “80% peculiar but 20% classic”. The album opens with More Power – a children’s choir – portraying Liam at his most tender and vulnerable. The song writers touch upon themes such as healing as on Sweet Children; unrealised dreams on It Was Not Meant To Be; freedom from illusions and lies found on the musical banger I’m Free, all offering a hopeful and optimistic energy. Throughout the album, you will find the mood swaying; while the piano-driven Too Good For Giving Up tugs at your heart strings, Better Days is guaranteed to put a spring in your step and, though its lyrics may sound vague to some, they will resonate with manyothers – Liam is not one to slap a definitive meaning on the words he sings rather, he prefers that listeners interpret and takeaway what they want to. The sound of the album swings from intense as on Don’t Go Halfway to soft on Moscow Rules, Too Good For Giving Up and The World Is In Need; sometimes, you find the energy picking up in the same song such as on Diamonds In The Dark. Soulfully strung together, the album has punk, rock and psychedelic pop vibes. The perfect summer album with its concert feel, C’mon You Know is a musical entertainer all the way.

By Sabaa Tahir Misbah and Toufiq are newly-weds when their lives are struck by a tragic happenstance, forcing them to emigrate to the US for a new start. Fastforward a couple of decades, Salahudin (Sal), their teenage son, is best friends with Noor, who also immigrated from Pakistan with her family. A fight between the two puts a pause on their friendship, but that’s before Sal’s ailing mother’s health deteriorates and his father’s alcoholic tendencies worsen. Sal is forced to take on the family motel business, and Noor works part-time at her dominating and hubristic uncle’s liquor store while secretly applying to colleges to escape him and her hometown, Juniper, forever. As the two grapple with their hardships, they are faced with a difficult choice. A beautiful novel with entangling themes of forgiveness, friendship and young love.

EPISTOLARY MEMOIR

Read Dangerously: The Subversive Power of Literature in Troubled Times By Azar Nafisi

The New York Times bestselling author returns with a fierce argumentative work. This collection of letters to her deceased father, whom she always considered her personal refuge, starts in the midst of the 2016 election in the US and ends with the Coronavirus pandemic. In this collection of thoughts and writings, Azar deep dives into her past and present and, targeting topics of social and political upheaval, argues that literature and the power of imagination are the cornerstones of change and resistance. She takes inspiration from literary greats spanning the centuries, from Plato to legendary Black feminists Hurston and Morrison, to contemporary classics Baldwin and Atwood. A brave and touching book, sure to stir the quietest of hearts. fact magazine

SUSTAINABLE AND STYLISH

Tommy Jeans’ new drop, Denim Progressed, features summery staples and head-turning classics, all helping contribute to a greener future. 92

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FASHION FOCUS •

ashion enthusiasts around the world are becoming more environmentally conscious. While many are boycotting fast-fashion brands – those that produce cheap, trendy and disposable clothing in bulk and at fast speeds to meet growing demand – all together, many others are switching to benevolent brands that use recycled fabric and repurposed materials and practice green production and operations. Denim Progressed is the sustainable capsule by Tommy Jeans whose product line consists of jeans wear and footwear for men and women as well as accessories and fragrances. With every new drop of Denim Progressed, Tommy Jeans by Tommy Hilfiger strives to reduce its environmental impact while delivering stylish, more sustainable denim. This collection consists of stylish silhouettes crafted from 100% recycled denim that’s made by repurposing leftover fabric and using renewable materials that are easier to recycle at the end of their life span – circular denim, which can be reused instead of ending up in a landfill. You can choose from everyday wardrobe staples – cargo shorts, full-length cargo pants, jeans, shirts and jackets – in bright summery whites, classic jet black and everything in between: a range of shades produced with unique washes and rinses – processes that give the fabric its appearance such as light, dark, worn out, tie-dyed and distressed. With summer pretty much upon us, these dazzling brights and their contrasting darks are just what you need to take your wardrobe through the season, whether you’re vacationing or staying on our sunny shores. ✤

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• FASHION FOCUS

GO: VISIT WWW.TOMMY.COM FOR MORE INFORMATION. 94

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• FOR HER

NEW &

ROSSANO FERRETTI

Satin Glow Booster This leave-in spray uses bio-certified vegan ingredients, including chestnut and aloe vera, to combat frizz, hydrate and reduce moisture loss for your hair. Improving softness and strength on the driest strands and containing over 96% naturally-derived ingredients, you can boost your styling results in the knowledge that your hair is in the best hands possible. Detangle, reduce breakage and colour loss, whilst adding a velvet-like sheen to the hair. Styling will fast become a breeze! Suitable for all hair types, the Satin Glow Booster has an evocative scent containing nectarine, patchouli and jasmine to create a calming and soothing aroma.

LUSH Vénitien Henna Twenty years after the invention of the Lush Henna Brick, the brand has reformulated the cult product range to give greater coverage and the best hair dye experience! The new and improved Henna Bricks guarantee refreshed shades that offer shinier and healthier results with richer tones and, for the first time, LUSH is also introducing a shine-enhancing strawberry blonde for fair hair. The new Vénitien Henna is infused with Iranian henna, chamomile, rhubarb and cassia to give warm, sun-kissed tones to naturally blonde, light or white hair. The new and enhanced formulas are infused with pigmented herbs and floras which have improved the coverage the brick gives, resulting in bolder results. Now with less cocoa butter, the bricks are easier to use and the colour attaches to the hair effortlessly.

NATURALS BY WATSONS Prestige Rose Hand Cream The Naturals by Watsons range from Watsons is a natural and toxin-free beauty brand. This Prestige Rose Hand Cream is for softening and moisturising the skin and contains organic rose water which is rich in tannins to nourish, smooth and moisturise the skin, as well as natural rose oil, which has an aromatherapy scent to calm and relax the mind and body.

RMS BEAUTY UnCoverup Cream Foundation A rich, nourishing, cream foundation with a luminous, dewy finish. This concentrated formula contains RMS’s Beauty Oil for rich hydration that helps smooth the appearance of fine lines, and Silica that boosts coverage of dark spots and redness. Formulated with wild-crafted buriti oil, organic coconut oil and the RMS signature adaptogenic herbal blend, this power-packed cream foundation evens skin tone with seamless, super-hydrating high impact coverage.

SKIN PROUD Icicle Cooling Eye Serum Stick Skin Proud’s Icicle Cooling Eye Serum Stick contains hyaluronic acid and refreshes and refines the eye area so that it looks tighter and brighter. The formula features a hyaluronic acid complex that helps to lock in moisture. With its unique balm-like consistency, you can use this serum stick on bare skin or over your makeup to give your look an instant refresh and long-lasting hydration.

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FOR HIM •

NOW Scents, skincare, grooming musthaves – check.

CARBON THEORY THE BODY SHOP

Facial Cleansing Wash If you have used every remedy to get rid of your

Edelweiss Daily Serum Concentrate

breakouts and still have no luck, try this Carbon

The Body Shop has just released its newest

Theory Facial Cleansing Wash. It has a blend of

collection yet, the Edelweiss Collection. This

organic tea tree oil, organic activated charcoal,

Daily Serum Concentrate is a fast-absorbing,

and shea butter that is dermatologically proven to

non-comedogenic serum enriched with edelweiss

prevent breakouts and keep skin clean, healthy, and

extract, peptides, hyaluronic acid and CFT moringa

hydrated.

seed oil. The product provides 24 hours of hydration and protects the skin against indoor and outdoor pollution.

SKANDINAVISK Travel-size Eau de Toilette Skandinavisk has launched its new travel sized Eau de Toilette collection featuring four 30ml bottles. The sprays each represent different chapters, known as Kapitels, in the story of the brand’s 20-year journey, and resonate with different adventures. Kapitel 1, called ‘Boreal Calm’, evokes the halls of towering trees and canopies of the deepest green with scents of fir. Kapitel 4, dubbed ‘Island Solitude’, goes back to the olden days of sailing on Scandinavian waters with no destination in mind and landing on a pebbly shore, with scents

FILORGA

of marine floral. Kapitel 12, named ‘Freedom to

Skin-Unify Illuminating Even Skin Tone Cream

Roam’, reflects on the ancient Scandinavian law

Filorga's new Skin-Unify Illuminating Even Skin

AATHER

to roam the land provided only footsteps are left

Tone Cream is a daily morning and evening

The Wanderer Returns Candle

behind, with scents of green aroma. The last, Kapitel

cream that provides a smooth application that

Designed in London and hand poured in France,

17, dubbed ‘Remote Refrain’, represents the last

nourishes and hydrates your skin inside-out.

The Wanderer Returns by new candle brand Aather

chapter inspired by a return trip to Hardangerfjord

Combining a powerful formula with a pleasant

is a fresh and rejuvenating blend of black fig and

during spring in 2021 and the orchard-lined fruit

sensorial experience, it prevents and reduces the

berries, anchored with cedarwood to help set the

trail that lines the shore, with scents of delicate

appearance of dark spots and instantly illuminates

scene for socialising in your space and providing a

flowers and subtle honey.

the complexion. Suitable for all skin types.

calming atmosphere. fact magazine

• MATTER OF FACT

What We’re (Still) Talking About Lost in Translation!

For Pox Sake!

Creativity or Lack Thereof?

If you’re active on Instagram, odds are you must have seen the post by a certain furniture company in the region that had us in fits of giggles over an honest oversight by their creative head. But bear in mind, creative jobs are vastly underrated, lemme tell you. If you’ve worked as a creative executive – in this case copywriter – you’ve, at some point, been told ‘All you do is write’, most likely by someone who isn’t in the business of writing. What they fail to understand is that talking and writing are different – speaking well doesn’t guarantee you can write well.

It’s routine these days to log on to a news site or open the newspapers and find a new life-threatening disease discovered in some part of the world; most recently, Monkey Pox. Most of us went bonkers when a case was found in the UAE. Living in a time driven by social media makes it worse; you’re bombarded with links – mostly forwards with click-bait headlines – and, if you’re subscribed to one of those WhatsApp groups, then, God help you! Come to think of it, isn’t that panic what most faux news agencies want? One would suspect, that’s what the health

The trailer of the Bollywood remake of the 1990s Hollywood comedydrama Forest Gump has garnered a mixed reaction. While some are excited to watch Lal Singh Chaddha, which is set to release on August 11, many others can’t help but see it as a contrived and repetitive attempt to filmmaking. The overall plot and major scenes and dialogues in the Bollywood version seem to remain unchanged. However, a lot has been adapted to suit the Indian context. The

Again, in our part of the world, like in many others, a lot is lost in translation. Case in point – the copywriter at said furniture company meant well when they conceptualised the social media post, inviting followers to state their preference from among the three pieces of furniture on display. The caption is where things got a little wobbly – “How do you like your stools?”. Hmm. Bucket, distressed metal, pub style, stationery bar… or, more likely, ‘none of your business’.

mafia want too, for various reasons. Like we haven’t had (still having) enough with Covid already. And what are we doing? We’re giving in to their tactics by sharing news without verifying it, participating in discussions and debates without knowing the facts, spreading rumours and fear… Well, the latest on Monkey Pox says that it constitutes a ‘moderate risk’ to public health. So, calm down for pox sake, will you!

catchphrase “My mom always said life was like a box of chocolates. You never know what you're gonna get,” has been replaced by a sentence, the contextual translation of which is, “Mother says, life is like a golgappa, no matter how many you eat, they fill your stomach but not your desire to have just one more.” (Golgappa is a popular piquant Indian street food.) Tastefully done? Well, we’ll have to wait for the film to decide.

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