FACT Qatar May 2019

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C ONTE NT S

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FACT FINDS

CHEF’S Q&A

RAMADAN 101

FOODIE CORNER

ARTS & CULTURE

SPA & WELLNESS

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• THE EDITOR

Rest & Reflect

“

Let Your Faith Be Bigger Than Your Fears.”

FACT Magazine Qatar Edition • MAY 2019 VOLUME 05, ISSUE 12 CHAIRMAN KHALIFA BIN MUBARAK AL KHALIFA CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER GREG HUGHES GENERAL MANAGER HUSSEIN A. ZREIK PUBLISHING DIRECTOR MARISELA PAESANO (marisela@fact-magazine.com)

H

ello, my sweet, sweet readers! As I pack my bag to get some tan on this skin, I am really avoiding to hear the spoilers for Avengers, Endgame. It’s here guys, the end to the decade that Marvel has had us hooked to! This was just one of the things that had me excited about April. This month has been really special; we revealed the winners of the fifth annual FACT Dining Awards Doha and trust me, I am still not over that night. Check out all the winners and dazzling pictures from the night on p46. It was an honour to host you all and see the reactions as the winners were revealed – congratulations from all of us.

We’re giving you a sneak peak of the amazing night we all had!

As we kick-off the Holy Month of Ramadan this week, I just want to say a few things: I’m thank for GoT finally airing, something to keep everyone busy and excited for the week, I’m grateful for all the invites in my inbox for the Iftars and Suhours, and I am grateful to the discounted rates on airfares because hello, vacations, here we come! Check out our pick of the best Ramadan gatherings starting p17. We also got to check out the exclusive opening for the National Museum of Qatar and we’re so proud that we were there to experience one of the most iconic moments for the cultural scene of the country – read all about this iconic building starting p37.

Speaking of May, not only do we get you the updates on the Iftar and Suhour deals in town, we tested a few before hand as well. Let us take you to the culinary journey for the month as we start off at the newly opened Mandarin Oriental’s Ramadan tent preview (p32), a bit of an Indian blend at Signature by Sanjeev Kapoor (p83), some Sabai Thai for the night (p91), and then we head to get those Parisian vibes at La Parisienne (p87). We also got the chance to meet Chef Gaston Acurio at our favourite restaurant La Mar which kind of made this entire issue a complete deal (p78).

Here’s hoping to see you all dine with us during Ramadan as we take a quick break before we see you again on paper!

Much love.☺

Anushay Taimur Khan Editor anushay@fact-magazine.com Insta: @anushaytkhan 4

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EDITOR-IN-CHIEF SHABANA ADAM (shabana@fact-magazine.com) EDITOR ANUSHAY TAIMUR KHAN ASSISTANT EDITOR AANCHAL DUGGAL SENIOR GRAPHIC DESIGNERS SYED MUHAMMED RAIHAN JYOTI RAWAT PHOTOGRAPHY SUDHI KOLLAROTH CONTRIBUTORS CRAIG FERRIMAN PRODUCTION & DISTRIBUTION AJIT KUMAR NEIL MAHMOOD OFFICE ADMIN PRADEEP KUMAR ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES marisela@fact-magazine.com PRINTED BY AL ANAN PRINTING PRESS , OMAN

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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• CONNECT

INSTAGRAM

TWITTER

@factqatarmagazine

FACT Magazine M.E @FACTMagazineME

A newly-launched dedicated instagram page for FACT Qatar magazine, keep up with our posts and stories for the best behind-the-scenes photos from food shoots, local events and all things awesome in the Doha and beyond, plus insights from the FACT team.

FACEBOOK FACT Qatar Keep up with all things Qatar as the FACT team posts the latest competitions, happenings and everything we’re getting up to for the monthly magazine, all for our readers!

Your one-stop culture fix for life in Qatar | First for local talent, arts, fashion, dining and all the coolest events in Doha | We’ve got tech, travel, motoring and exclusive interviews with all the industry and celebrity-world movers and shakers too | Get your copy of FACT Qatar in local supermarkets now!

“

Give love in secret by praying for one another.

ISSUU.COM FACT Qatar

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.

OUR FAVE FEATURE • RAMADAN KAREEM P29 •

FOLLOW US ON TWITTER AND MAYBE YOU’LL BE HERE NEXT MONTH! @FACTMAGAZINEME 6

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Zomorod Ramadan Tent Experience luxury in its purest form

Enjoy exquisite Ramadan Nights with friends and family at our stunning tent where the Arabian spirit is embodied in all its glory. Savor authentic Middle Eastern cuisine prepared using ancient recipes, contemporary international dishes and an array of delicious desserts.

Live Arabic musicians provide a complementary soulful ambience with a repertoire of classic tunes to set the perfect mood.

Iftar from Sunset to 20:00 hrs Suhour from 21:30 hrs to 02:00 hrs For reservations or more information, please call +974 4446 0105, or e-mail dining.reservations@stregis.com

The St. Regis Doha, Al Gassar Resort, P. O. Box 14435 West Bay, Doha, Qatar stregisdoha.com fact magazine

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• CHECK IT OUT

FACT FINDS

Staybridge Suites Doha Lusail THE FIRST STAYBRIDGE SUITES IN QATAR BY IHG (INTERCONTINENTAL HOTELS GROUP), ONE OF THE WORLD’S LEADING HOTEL COMPANIES HAS OPENED ITS DOORS.

Staybridge Suites Doha Lusail® has a collection of modern serviced apartments for guests looking for a home away from home experience. It is the first hotel apartment in Lusail with fully equipped kitchens and stylishly designed amenities intended to cater extended stays. Each apartment is fitted with a living area and a workspace for the perfect blend of work and relaxation.

The pet friendly facilities of Staybridge Suites ensure that guests can travel with their beloved furry-friends without worrying about their accommodation and safety.

The fresh new concept of the 119-key hotel residencies provides a variety of amenities such as daily continental breakfast, daily and weekly housekeeping, a guest laundry room, fitness center, outdoor pool, an interactive kids playground and a communal barbecue area. Shared leisure spaces also include The Living Room and The Den, a place to relax and unwind with family and friends. Staybridge Suites Doha Lusail® also has a “Grab and Go” facility where guests can enjoy snacks and other food and beverage items while on the go. As for business travelers and residents, the hotel offers wireless internet throughout the property, and business services with built meeting room.

The layout and design for each apartment differs allowing guests a variety of choices suited to their needs, whether for single professionals or families. With the modern-day corporate 8

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traveler in mind, the hotel hosts a fully-equipped fitness centre for guests to maintain their fitness regime and a swimming pool for a refreshing dip after a long day.

In total there are 86 one-bedroom apartments, including one penthouse with a swimming pool and three apartments with their own terraces. There are 16 two-bedroom apartments, one of which is completed with its own terrace; and, 17 three-bedroom apartments, four of which are penthouses with their own private roof top swimming pools.

The Staybridge Suites Doha Lusail located at Marina Promenade Road, Lusail conveniently close to The Pearl-Qatar – Beverly Hills of Qatar, Katara Cultural Village, cultural and art’s hotspot, downtown area – hub of entertainment, Lagoona Mall with multiple branded boutiques, Doha Festival City Mall – for quality family time. Residents of Staybridge Suites Doha Lusail® will be able to enjoy the soon-to-be-launched Place Vendome, the new home of luxury and fashion at the heart of Lusail City, making the hotel an ideal getaway for weekend breaks and short stays. ✤

GO: CALL 4456 5000 FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION.

EXQUISITE RAMADAN AT INTERCONTINENTAL® DOHA. Cherish Ramadan and all its traditions in the opulent setting of InterContinental® Doha, with an array of Iftar & Sohour offerings.

Sohour at Shahrazad Tent Immerse in the splendour of the breathtaking Shahrazad Tent with a lavish Sohour buffet and live Oud entertainment.

9pm till 1am. QR 195 / adult. QR 95 / child* Iftar at Coral Indulge in Coral's sumptuous Iftar with a variety of Arabic and international dishes.

Sunset till 8pm.

QR 225 / adult. QR 115 / child* Group rates available for Iftar & Sohour** For enquiries & reservations: +974 4484 4919 fb.icdoha@ihg.com doha.intercontinental.com/dining * Children 6 to 12 years old.

5 years & below are free of charge. ** Terms & conditions apply.

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• LISTEN UP

CENTRO’S CULINARY GENIUS Chef Toufik Imam Shaikh, a resident of India, has made his way to becoming the forefrontleading Executive Chef at Centro Capital Doha. Let’s meet the chef in charge…

WITH OVER 14 YEARS OF experience in the thriving hospitality industry across the Middle East and India, Chef Toufik Imam Shaikh has created significant milestones through leading hotel chains such as the Taj, Ritz-Carlton, Jumeirah and Sofitel.

Through his dedicated experience, his passion is ultimately conveyed through his signature dishes at C.taste. The restaurant specializes in serving an array of decadent dishes throughout the day, focusing on the concept for dining all day where everyone is welcome for breakfast, lunch and dinner. The setting calls for a savored moment with friends and family as the atmosphere is dynamic, lively and intimate.

Since C.taste brings the spotlight on international dining, there is no limit to the selection of cuisines available. Taking a culinary journey from the Mediterranean, Asia and the Middle East – you will have the opportunity to try out and indulge the exquisite flavors from various continents all under one roof.

Chef Toufik consistently upholds the constant level of standard and respect towards the food. Simplicity is key when it comes to curating the dishes, with the incorporation of unique ingredients to further enrich them and adding a contemporary twist.

When dining at C.taste, the à la carte menu has been exquisitely crafted by Chef Toufik, giving you the finest selections from starters to desserts: For the starters, you begin with the Classic Caesar Salad 10

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– a quintessential appetizer that comes along with unique ingredients such as poached eggs, roman lettuce, bacon, Parmigiano Reggiano and anchovy fillet. It is topped with olive oil and mustard to create a creamy consistency that brings out the rich flavors of the salad.

As for the main course, there is the Pan Roasted Norwegian Salmon – a hearty dish that is complemented with mashed potatoes, seasonal vegetables and caper sauce. With such an arrangement, it is the ideal dish to keep you satisfied throughout the day.

To end the course on a sweet note, the Traditional Tiramisu is the ideal selection. Not only it is a glorious Italian dessert loved by all, as Chef Toufik’s unique technique includes the incorporation of coffee-infused mascarpone mousse with whipped ganache that redefines the simplistic take of the dessert. ✤

GO: THE À LA CARTE SELECTION AT C.TASTE IS A GREAT PLACE TO START WITH A DYNAMIC DINING EXPERIENCE AND TO BEGIN DEPARTING FOR YOUR INTERNATIONAL CULINARY JOURNEY, BOOK YOUR TABLE BY CALLING CENTRO CAPITAL DOHA ON 4455 5000 FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION.

Ramadan is different at The Westin...

The Westin Doha Hotel & Spa is creating a one-of-a-kind Ramadan experience for your family and friends. Explore a vibrant atmosphere at our Ramadan tent for Iftar and Suhour featuring a wide variety of International dishes from around the world, live food stations, private majlis paired with live oriental music.

For an exquisite Suhour under the stars, discover exceptional Arabic decoration, delectable food and desserts at Seasonal Tastes.

Iftar or Suhour Ramadan Tent: QR 220 per person Seasonal Tastes: QR 169 per person

For more information please call: 3359 8514 fact magazine

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• LISTEN UP

SWEET ENDINGS Hailing from Italy, Chef Enrico Pezellato is the new Executive Pastry Chef at Sheraton Grand Doha Resort & Convention Hotel. FACT learns a little more about him…

BORN IN 1975 IN RECOARO Terme, the Italian town known for its spring water, Chef Enrico Pezzelato started baking at the young age of 13, when he began an apprenticeship at a local bakery.

Coming from a family of chefs and expert culinarians, Chef Enrico has always been passionate about baking and the artistry behind it; he studied for one year in art school and later trained as a chef in Pellegrino Artusi school.

Chef Enrico spent his early professional years working as a Demi Chef at Pasticceria Ernst Knam and Pasticceria Cova — where he mastered the art of lievito madre (sour dough) — in Milan and at Villa d ‘Este in Lake Como. He moved to Switzerland to work as Sous Chef at leading luxury hotels Badrutt’s Palace Hotel and Kulm Hotel in St. Moritz, and then moved back to Italy to work for Relais & Châteaux at Hotel Borgo San Felice in Tuscany, where he took position as Executive Pastry Chef at the age of 24.

Since then, Chef Enrico began traveling around the world to practice his art. He ventured to Africa at Four Seasons Safari Lodge in Serengeti, Tanzania and at The Palace of the Lost City Hotel in South Africa; to the Caribbean at Four Seasons Hotel both in Anguilla and Nevis; to Southeast Asia at The Fullerton Hotel in Singapore; and to the Middle East, where he spent over a 12

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year as Cluster Executive Pastry Chef overlooking three ShangriLa hotels in Oman.

Chef Enrico has moved to Doha in 2019 and joined Sheraton Grand Doha Resort & Convention Hotel as Executive Pastry Chef.

“Taking on a new role at Sheraton Grand Doha is a new challenge for me,” he says. “While I have already worked in the Middle East before, it is my first time in Qatar. It is a new market for me, and that definitely adds to the challenge. I am excited to bring not only my expertise, but my Italian touch to the new projects that we are bringing forth,” he adds.

Chef Enrico will be spearheading the introduction of the Italian pasticceria mignon concept to Doha. “The idea of ‘Pasticceria Italiana’ is simple: you choose which pasticcini (small pastries) or biscotti (cookies) from our wide selection and you take home your own assortment,” he explains. ✤

GO: FOLLOW @SHERATONGRANDDOHA ON INSTAGRAM AND “LIKE” THEM ON FACEBOOK /SHERATONGRANDDOHA FOR ALL THE LATEST INFORMATION.

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• LISTEN UP

RAMADAN AT HOLIDAY INN, THE BUSINESS PARK The Al Masa Ballroom, Holiday Inn, The Business Park, has been transformed into a Ramadan tent where you can come and enjoy a delicious Iftar. The entire ballroom is altered into a feast as there are tables laden with food of every variety: from goodies such as the classic old Indian samosas to the vegetarian vegetable rolls; from spicy biryani to your traditional Moutableh, the benchmark has been set by the hotel. Not just that, they are also offering sushi in the buffet, which makes this experience all the more wholesome.

To add to the perfect end to the evening, an entire table is just dedicated to desserts where you will find yourself drooling over the delicious panna cottas, some tempting Turkish delight, scrumptious balaksham, and your good old chocolate fountains.

These are just a few that we are picking out of the lot as this was just a part of it.

Giving the right ambience for the Holy month of Ramadan, the setup of the entire hall in lights and décor that will fit right into your evening schedule is a plus point on this occasion. An ideal place to enjoy with your children, the Holiday Inn Ramadan Tent is the place to be with families this month. Iftar runs from 5pm to 8pm. ✤ 14

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GO: CALL 4031 3333 FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION.

Iftar

‫رﻣﻀﺎن ﻛﺮﻳﻢ‬ Ramadan Karrm

Suhoor

Call 4429 8499 to book

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With rides as low as 8 QAR, we are the most affordable service in Doha. Book your ride today and experience the magic yourself.

Yalla, let’s go ;)

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RAMADAN REVELRY T HE H OLY MONTH I S UP ON US A ND D OH A’S D I N I N G S C E N E IS G O I N G A L L O U T TO M A KE S U R E T HAT YO U HAV E TH E BES T OF H OSP I TA L I T Y A ND F OOD TO E N J OY T HE T R A D IT I O N A L S P IR IT O F T HI S S P EC IA L T IM E. FAC T HIG H LIG H TS SOM E OF TH E CI T Y’S TOP I F TA R, S U HO U R A N D WE L L N E S S D E A L S TO M A KE A N OT E O F…

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• RAMADAN 101

THE WESTIN DOHA HOTEL & SPA

RAMADAN TENT This year, The Westin Doha Hotel and Spa, will be offering a bespoke culinary experience for Iftar and Suhour during the Holy Month of Ramadan. The tent, which will be decorated in a magnificence theme from around the world, is brought to guests in partnership with Qatar Airways.

Inspired by the traditional Ramadan themes from countries around the world with an Arabesque twist,the spacious 2,100 square metre tent is located within the Grand Ballroom of the hotel and comfortably accommodates up to 1000 guests. Special majlis will also be available for families and friends to dine in an intimate corner.

During the whole month of Ramadan, guests can enjoy an abundant Iftar and Suhour buffet with a wide array of appetisers, soups and main courses of international and authentic Qatari dishes along with an variety of desserts. Additionally, the chefs will be demonstrating their expertise at more than 10 different live stations which will consist of a selection of daily grills, shawarma, saj, manti, tandoori, sushi stations and many more.

The Westin Ramadan tent is located in the Grand Ballroom of the Hotel, on the ground floor. Iftar will start from sunset until 8.30pm and Suhour will be served from 9.30pm to 1.30am. The price for Iftar and Suhour buffet at the tent is QR220 per person and QR169 at Seasonal Tastes. Complimentary for kids aged under six-yearsold and 50% savings for kids aged between six to 12-years-old.

RESTAURANTS Aditionally, Seasonal Tastes restaurant will be open for an exquisite Iftar and Suhoor under the stars with exceptional Arabic decoration, delectable food and yummy desserts. This year, Sabai Thai restaurant will open daily from sunset until midnight and guests can enjoy mouth-watering Asian cusine in a pleasant ambiance all month long.

SPA & WELLNESS Heavenly Spa by Westin is also offering a summer package to maximize your workout routine during the Holy Month of 18

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Ramadan, with a special one-month membership that includes full access to the gym and pool facilities along with one service of the guest’s choice such as a manicure or a pedicure or two classes from Westin WORKOUT all for a cool QR1,000. The Spa will open from 7am to 11pm. ✤

GO: CALL 4492 1555 FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION.

‫رمضان كريم‬

Ramadan Kareem

Iftar at Al Masa from sunset until 09:00 PM

QAR 195 per person QAR 95 for children 6-12 years old FREE for children below 6 years old For more information and reservations, call us at +947 4408 7577 or e-mail events.dohabp@ihg.com. fact magazine

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• RAMADAN 101

FOUR SEASONS HOTEL DOHA

CROWNE PLAZA DOHA WEST BAY

Indulge in a memorable Iftar or Suhour at the beautiful Ramadan Tent. The live stations and buffet are a celebration of all the hotel’s restaurants, showcasing traditional Arabic dishes, international favourites, and Pan Asian specialities. Not to be missed this year is Dessert Wonderland, where you can indulge with an array of sweet treats and delicacies. Highlights include special Ramadan and Qatari dishes, a Japanese sushi station, dim sum carousel, pasta and carving station, Arabic and western desserts station and much more. Iftar: 6pm to 8.30pm, QR240. Suhour: 10pm to 1.30am, QR280.

GO: Call 4494 8600 for reservations and more information.

Make this Ramadan memorable and enjoy the buffet arranged at Nidaaya, Crowne Plaza Doha West Bay. Authentic dishes, sharing platters and freshly grilled Shish Taouk, Shish and Kofta kebab along with many regional favourites are on offer. Gather with family and friends throughout the Holy month and enjoy the vibrant setting whilst listening to live music in a lavish Arabesque atmosphere. Iftar: Sunset to 8.30pm. QR95 per person. Suhour: 9.30pm to 2am.

GO: Call 4019 8876 for reservations and more information.

GRAND HYATT DOHA HOTEL & VILLAS For those of you who enjoyed the lavish set up last year, you’ll be pleased to learn that Ramdanak returns at Al Silia Ballroom for 2019. Indulge in an exquisite array of Middle Eastern cuisine with international flair whilst relaxing with friends and family in a vibrant yet cosy Arabian setting. The perfect place to bring together loved ones and break your fast to the sounds of live music. Iftar: Sunset to 8.30pm. QR220 per person. Suhour: 9.30pm to 2am, served a la carte.

GO: Call 3029 3748 for reservations and more information.

BANANA ISLAND RESORT DOHA BY ANANTARA Azraq is hosting a very lovely spread for the Holy Month. It is this special time of the year that we gather family and friends to enjoy delicious Iftar favourites together. Feel the genuine Arabian ambience with the atmospheric souq-inspired setting and music played by the Moroccan band. Complete the experience with the dazzling creativity of a henna artist. Iftar: Sunset to 9pm. Nonresident guests: QR275 per adult and QR175 per child. Resident guests: QR225 per adult and QR125 per child. Suhour: 9pm to 3am.

GO: Call 4040 5050 for reservations and more information.

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A VERY SPECIAL RAMADAN FEAST F E AT U R I N G D E S S E R T W O N D E R L A N D

This Ramadan, indulge your family and loved ones in a memorable Iftar or Sohour at our Ramadan Tent, where all of our restaurants will be featured, showcasing their specialties and cuisines.

For the little ones, we have big surprise: Dessert Wonderland. A feast for the eye and the sweet tooth with ice cream stations, live cake shop and so much more.

+974 4494 8600

dining.doh@fourseasons.com fact magazine

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• RAMADAN 101

SOUQ WAQIF BOUTIQUE HOTELS Come together with family, friends and colleagues this Holy Month at Souq Waqif Boutique Hotels in the heart of Doha.

The Ramadan spirit is on full display throughout the one-ofa-kind environment every night, with lavish buffets featuring the finest flavours from Morocco and around the world.

Delight in exquisite Iftar and Sohour experiences, with special packages available for corporate events and private groups.

Iftar: 6pm to 8pm. QR145 per person. Suhour is served a la carte.

GO: Call 4433 6666 for reservations and more information.

THE ST. REGIS DOHA The St. Regis Doha invites guests to enjoy the perfect Ramadan experience at the breathtaking Al Zomorod Ramadan Tent. The stunning structure offers a traditional setting complemented by live cooking stations, scrumptious seasonal specials, live entertainment and a breathtaking quality. Open daily from sunset to 2am.

GO: Call 4446 0105 for reservations and more information.

SHERATON GRAND DOHA RESORT & CONVENTION HOTEL Experience the full spectrum of Arabian hospitality while being immersed in Qatari heritage in an elegant Arabesque atmosphere at the specially-designed Turath Ramadan Tent at Al Majlis Ballroom. Delight in either an Iftar feast or an intimate Suhour gathering alongside a traditional live band performance, a vibrant air, and an unparalleled culinary journey. Suhour: 9pm to 2am, QR250 per person.

GO: Call 4485 3000 for reservations and more information.

MARRIOTT MARQUIS CITY CENTRE DOHA Indulge in an authentic dining experience at Wanassa Ramadan tent with freshly prepared Ramadan delicacies including traditional Arabic cuisine, Turkish favourites, and international delights, this is an event not to miss. Serving Iftar from sunset to 9pm and Suhour from 9.3pm to 1.30am. QR220 per person.

GO: Call 4419 5000 for reservations and more information.

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INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA THE CITY Be delighted by traditional Arabic cuisine favourites, ranging from cold and hot mezze, fresh seafood, and grilled meat and live ouzi stations. A wide range of traditional dessert options including the signature kunafa and artisan desserts including the new signature date burger will satisfy any sweet tooth.

Includes Ramadan juices. Served in The Square – Iftar is from sunset to 8.30pm, QR119 per person. Suhour is 9pm to 11pm.

GO: Call 4015 8888 for reservations and more information.

RAMADAN ISLAND ESCAPE From 16 May until the last day of Ramadan

CELEBRATE RAMADAN IN PARADISE

IFTAR BUFFET AT AZRAQ

SOHOUR AT ZEST CAFE

SHISHA GARDEN AT ZEN LOUNGE

Room rates start at QAR 889 per night. Offer includes daily Sohour or breakfast at designated areas, 35% off on Iftar buffet, Ramadan special amenities, early check-in and late check-out (subject to availability), one complimentary bowling game per stay and return luxury boat transfers.

Genuine Arabian flair with the atmospheric souq-inspired setting.

Time: Sunset – 9.00 pm

Enjoy a set menu of refined Arabic dishes served family-style.

Time: 9.00 pm – 3.00 am

Snacks, sweets and shisha flavours every day at the Zen Garden.

Time: 7.00 pm – 3.00 am

Prices: Outside guests: QAR 275 per adult and QAR 175 per child In-house guests: QAR 225 per adult and QAR 125 per child

Price: Outside guests: QAR 250 per adult and QAR 150 per child In-house guests: QAR 200 per adult and QAR 100 per child

Price: A la carte

doha@anantara.com

anantara.com

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• RAMADAN 101

CITY CENTRE ROTANA DOHA The beautiful Almas Ramadan Tent is set to host a splendid Iftar buffet featuring an extensive range of Arabic delicacies, international cuisine, live cooking stations and soft beverages.

Enjoy live entertainment throughout the month when you dine here. Arabic music entertainment is available from 10pm to 1am during Suhour time (QR179 per person) whilst Iftar is served from sunset to 8.30pm, QR210 per person.

GO: Call 4445 8680 for reservations and more information.

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA

MARSA MALAZ KEMPINSKI, THE PEARL-DOHA Enjoy Iftar and Suhour daily throughout Ramadan in a truly stunning setting at the magnificent Palazzo Ballroom. Guests will enjoy the multi-awarded Levantine cuisine of Al Sufra, headed by Chef Julien Al Khal, along with other delicious dishes inspired by Qatari and Middle Eastern favouritess. Be enriched with a cultural and joyful atmosphere with worldclass entertainment at this 5-star hotspot. Iftar: Sunset to 8pm, QR210 per person. Suhour: 9pm to late, QR250 per person.

GO: Call 4035 5555 for reservations and more information.

DOHA MARRIOTT HOTEL Experience Ramadan at the Doha Marriott Hotel with a lavish buffet and tasty live stations at the famous Restaurant Gallery.

Suhour will be one-of-a-kind this year with the Al Fresco live barbecue cooking at The View terrace and the refined a la carte options. Iftar: sunset to 9pm. QR180 per person. Children aged from six to 12: QR90. Suhour: 10pm to 2am.

GO: Call 4429 8882 for reservations and more information.

RADISSON BLU HOTEL DOHA Break your fast with an extravagant Middle Eastern Iftar buffet at Hyde Park with a choice of Asian and continental dishes, an extensive selection of traditional Arabic sweets and Ramadan juices, tea and coffee. Iftar is served from sunset to 11pm.

QR140 per person.

GO: Call 4428 1555 for reservations and more information.

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Immerse yourself in the splendor of the breathtaking Shahrazad Tent as they bring you an exquisite buffet of delicious Arabic and international specialities and live performances during Suhour.

Captivate your senses with their live Oud entertainment from 9pm to 1am. QR195 per adult and QR95 for children aged six to 12-years-old.

GO: Call 4484 4919 for reservations and more information.

MONDRIAN DOHA Experience Ramadan in a way like never before. Try the Alif Lila w Lila tent, which is open for Iftar (QR225 per person ) and Suhour (QR275 per person) every day. Experience Arabic cuisine as well as international classics in a spread designed to capture the true hospitality of the Holy Month.

GO: Call 4045 5999 for reservations and more information.

A Delightful Ramadan Experience Join us during The Holy Month of Ramadan for the best Iftar & Suhour offerings in Doha

Corniche

Corniche

Mall of Qatar

Porto Arabia Mall of Qatar

Set Menu

Set Menu

Set Menu

Set Menu

QR 185

QR 195

Tel. 66664448

Souq Waqif

QR 135

Buffet without Shisha

Tel. 66664448

Souq Waqif

Mall of Qatar

Buffet with Shisha

Buffet without Shisha

QR 170

QR 99

Tel. 50001833

Mall of Qatar

QR 120 Set Menu

QR 220

Mall of Qatar

Set Menu

Set Menu

Tel. 55060851

Tel. 50001866

Tel. 33333954

Medina Centrale

Medina Centrale

QR 99

Buffet without Shisha

QR 144

Buffet with Shisha

Medina Centrale Mall of Qatar

Medina Centrale

Set Menu without Shisha

Set Menu with Shisha

QR 109

Tel. 50001644

Souq Waqif

QR 130

QR 99

QR 55

Al Khor

QR 85

Tel. 33334883

Medina Centrale

Ezdan Tower 1

Buffet

Buffet

QR 99

Set Menu

Tel. 50008872 AuraHospitalityQatar |

QR 109

PalmaHospitality.qa

QR 65

Tel. 50503453 fact magazine

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• RAMADAN 101

SHARQ VILLAGE & SPA Located in Al Dasha and Al Sonbok Ballrooms, Sihr Al Sharq Ramadan Tent invites friends and families to experience unforgettable evenings filled with Arabian tradition. The culinary team will entertain through interactive live stations serving juicy shawarma, tender grilled meats, fresh seafood, hearty pasta, and other delectable offerings. For the perfect ending, guests may indulge on the decadent spread of traditional and contemporary sweets accompanied with Ramadan authentic beverages. As a local tradition, Oud players and an oriental live band will entertain guests at the majestic Sihr Al Sharq Ramadan experience. Iftar: Sunset to 8pm, QR250 per person.

Suhour: 9.30pm to 1am, QR200 per person.

GO: Call 4425 6666 for reservations and more information.

HILTON DOHA Grand Bazaar will be offering a peaceful and convivial ambiance with private majlis and dining tables in a stylish décor. The Grand Bazaar takes you on a culinary journey through our market food stands. The buffet has over 50 authentic Arabic and international dishes, eight live cooking stations, Arabic coffee, karak tea, live Asian street market and a mouth-watering dessert station along with the freshly made Arabic delights. Iftar: Sunset to 8pm, QR195 per person. Suhour: 9pm to 2am, QR225 per person.

GO: Call 4423 3222 for reservations and more information.

THE TORCH DOHA During the Holy Month of Ramadan indulge in an “Arabian Nights” buffet at Flying Carpet restaurant. The delicious set up features an abundant spread of Arabic delicacies, live cooking stations and signature Arabic desserts. Iftar: Sunset to 8pm, QR210 per person. Suhour: 10.30pm to 2am, QR180 per person.

GO: Call 4446 5600 for reservations and more information.

CROWNE PLAZA DOHA, THE BUSINESS PARK Indulge in a delicious Iftar A La Carte menu or try the set special Suhour menu at Arguelina. Last order is at 2.30am. Iftar: Sunset onwards. Suhour: Served until 2.30am.

GO: Call 4408 7777 for reservations and more information.

HOLIDAY INN DOHA, THE BUSINESS PARK Enjoy a variety of delicacies throughout Ramadan at Al Masa Ballroom. The hotel promises this to be one of the best Iftar Tents in town! Served from 6pm to 8pm.

GO: Call 4031 3333 for reservations and more information.

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• RAMADAN 101

BALADNA Baladna is a local farm-to-table restaurant concept, taking ingredients from their very own dairy factory and meat farm.

Offering traditional Arabic dishes served with love, passion and simplicity they give you the best dining experience. They have created a venue for great food, drink and relaxation in a lovely and unique setting. Buffet: Medina Centrale QR99; Mall of Qatar QR55 set menu; Al Khor QR85.

GO: Call 5000 8872 for reservations and more information.

AL NAJADA HOTEL Celebrate the Holy Month of Ramadan with a new experience for Iftar and Suhour at Al Baraha Restaurant. An authentic taste of Arabian hospitality capturing the magic of the sumptuous buffet featuring classic local cuisine and international dishes.

Iftar: Sunset to 8pm. QR159 per person. Suhour: 9.30pm to 2am.

QR129 per person.

GO: Call 4470 4444 for reservations and more information.

IDAM BY ALAIN DUCASSE Experience true Arabian hospitality through an exceptional Iftar menu, ceremoniously served at your table. The Executive Chef, Damien Leroux, has created a unique menu for each week during the Holy Month of Ramadan, for an unforgettable discovery of haute-cuisine. Iftar: Sunset to 11pm. QR290 per person.

GO: Call 4422 4488 for reservations and more information.

CENTRO CAPITAL DOHA A spectacular Ramadan awaits you at c.taste. Celebrate this Holy Month in style as you indulge in traditional delicacies during Iftar with your family and friends. Enjoy Arabic flavours along with live cooking, creating unforgettable moments at this special time. Iftar: Sunset to 10pm. QR129 per person.

GO: Call 4455 5000 for reservations and more information.

ALWADI HOTEL DOHA MGALLERY Celebrate the Holy Month at “Khaimat Alwadi” and enjoy our special lavish Iftar and Suhour buffet. Offering you a wide selection of local and international dishes, Alwadi Hotel Doha MGallery welcomes you to come along with your friends and family for a memorable Ramadan experience. Iftar: QR210 per person from sunset onwards. Suhour: QR230 per person until 2.30am.

GO: Call 4009 9666 for reservations and more information.

ORYX ROTANA DOHA This Ramadan, walk through the journey of Ibn Battuta’s most known adventures and experience a variety of live stations and buffet sections featuring dishes from the Silk Road and journeys from South Asia, Middle East, Persia, and Turkey all the way to Andalucía and North Africa. Iftar: Sunset to 10pm.

GO: Call 4402 3333 for reservations and more information.

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Experience

Ramadan as one

at Wanassa

Break your fast or savour Sohour with family and friends at Wanassa where traditional Ramadan delicacies and live entertainment awaits you.

Iftar

From QAR 220

Sohour From QAR 170

For reservations call +974 4419 5028 or email: ebc.doha@marriott.com

Support Educate A Child by adding a discretionary QAR 10 donation.

Marriott Marquis City Center Doha Hotel West Bay City Center, Omar Al Mukhtar Street, Doha, Qatar www.marriottmarquisdoha.com

WANASS A

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RAMADAN: SPA & WELLNESS

THE WESTIN DOHA HOTEL & SPA Keeping your skin healthy is equally important as your diet. The ‘Stay Radiatn’ treatment will detox your skin during the Holy Month. Try the packages for either Luxury Caviar Hydrating Hammam + Express Hydrating Facial or Luxury Caviar Hydrating Hammam + hands and feet cleansing for 90 minutes, priced at QR800.

GO: Call 4492 1682 for reservations and more information.

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA HOTEL & RESIDENCES Refresh and revitalise your senses this Ramadan. Escape into the luxury of Spa InterContinental with a special price of QR500 for any 60-minute facial.

GO: Call 4484 4060 for reservations and more information.

DIPLOMATIC CLUB Indulge in the Hot Stone Massage at The Spa. Heated black stones are used to massage your whole body, releasing deep seated tension. The treatment releases stress at the deepest level using your body’s energy channels. This is a holistic, and very energising therapy for body, mind and spirit. Price: Members - QR325, Non Members - QR425. Duration: 50 minutes.

GO: Call 4484 7444 for reservations and more information.

DOHA MARRIOTT HOTEL The Spa’s couples package is all about peace and quiet, offering you time to be yourselves inside one of the fullyequipped luxury treatment rooms. Enjoy a 60-minute massage 30

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of your choice between the Aromatherapy (anti-stress therapy that relieves muscle tension and cramps using organic essential oil) or Swedish massage (therapy using effleurage strokes to detoxify the body using dead sea oil).

GO: Call 4429 8520 for reservations and more information.

GRAND RAMADAN The highly-awaited Ramadanak tent is back this year to the astonishing Al Silia Ballroom, offering the true flavours and sound of Arabian hospitality throughout the Holy Month of Ramadan.

Relish daily, sumptuously rich iftar buffets with an impressive line-up of live stations for those feeling indulgent and a mouth-watering sohour menu to the melodies of a traditional live band, as you break your fast together with your loved ones during the Holy month.

IFTAR BUFFET SOHOUR

| QAR 220 PER PERSON | À LA CARTE

For bookings and enquiries, Please call 4448 1234 or 3029 3748

GRAND HYATT DOHA HOTEL & VILLAS West Bay lagoon, P.O. Box 24010, Doha, State of Qatar T: +974 4448 1234 | F: +974 4448 1235 E: doha.grand@hyatt.com | W: HyattRestaurants.com/Doha Facebook.com/GrandHyattDoha HYATT name, design and related marks are trademarks of Hyatt Corporation. Š2019 Hyatt Corporation. All rights reserved. fact magazine

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RAMADAN REKINDLE AT MANDARIN ORIENTAL The newly opened Mandarin Oriental has been the talk of the town and we couldn’t wait and try their Ramadan preview. Their Iftar and Sohour embodies the spirit of bringing family together to be thankful, to reflect, to be charitable. FACT’s Anushay Taimur Khan headed to the venue to give their food a try…

F

or the first time ever, Mandarin Oriental Doha was my host for the Ramadan preview to sample some culinary highlights from their Ramadan tent, and I was very excited to see how they will measure up to the competition in Doha. As soon as I entered the venue, I was delighted to see the variety of food that was present. I’m not joking when I say that my hunger pangs came with me this particular day and I was not going to shy away from this buffet.

Embodying the journey of the Silk Route, that stretched from Far East to Europe, the variety of food reflected the entire culinary expedition of this particular voyage. My feast started from delectable Japanese sushi, sashimi and robatayaki – all of which were a favourite at our table. I absolutely loved the variety in this cuisine as I come from a family that has polar opposite choices, and this was just what I needed for the night – a range of food to keep everyone happy!

The Arabic mezze accompanied by the grilled meat were next on the table and as soon as we dug in, it was like settling right back at home. Arabic cuisine, quite rightly, has become a favourite for us since we have finally given in to the deliciousness that comes with living in Doha and, this day, we were just having a wholesome experience. Furthermore, the entire table was blown away by the exotic Indian delicacies the most. Readers, if you’re coming to the Mandarin Oriental tent (which you MUST), the biryani table is the one you should all be hogging. The biryani was the queen of the night and every person sitting on the table was going for seconds – that is the biggest compliment one can give when you’re at a buffet! Also expect delicate dims dim sums

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ON THE MENU •

and wok fried dishes from China and South East Asia, with a selection of European roast that you’re not going to want to miss.

The heavenly desserts came next and that too with a variety and, believe me when I say: save some space for these beautiful creations. This was the first time that I could not pick one dessert and call it a favourite. They were all THAT good.

The one thing that stood out for me at this particular tent was their setup for children – the world renowned storytelling adventures by Papinee were set up at the venue from Leo the lion from the savannah of Africa or Vani the monkey from the jungles of Mexico, Odo the Deer, podo the Turtle, and Strix the Owl to keep the story going. It was all about keeping the family entertained and I don’t think I could ever be more grateful to someone for keeping my child distracted while I devour all the goodies Mandarin Oriental offered. Capturing the true essence of Ramadan the toys will be available for purchase with a portion of the sales donated to a local charity.

Like promised, my visit was a wholesome family experience: we all had our favourite food, the baby was occupied and we all argued over the biryani.

Yes, it felt like home. ✤

GO: IFTAR - 6PM TO 8PM, QR245 FOR ADULTS AND QR135 FOR CHILDREN. SUHOUR - 9PM TO 2AM, QR280 FOR ADULTS AND QR160 FOR CHILDREN. EACH PAYING COUPLE WILL BE ELIGIBLE FOR UP TO FOUR COMPLIMENTARY MEALS FOR CHILDREN. PRICES APPLY FOR ADDITIONAL CHILDREN. CALL 4008 8888 FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION. fact magazine

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MONDRIAN’S RAMADAN SPIRIT Ramadan is here and it was only natural for the FACT team to head for a preview of the authentic food served at Mondrian Doha’s Ramadan Tent. Anushay Taimur Khan visited for a night of delectable offerings…

Mondrian Doha is already one of my favourite places in town and I have always felt like they offer the complete package when it comes to food, entertainment, and hospitality. Therefore, a preview of the Ramadan Tent was exactly what I needed before the Holy Month officially started.

I was welcomed by a ginormous buffet which only indicated one thing: small bites so you don’t go home crying about being unable to have some of the exquisite dishes you saw. From the Quzi to the butter chicken, I appreciated seeing the variety at the tent. From Indian street food, to sushi and deliciously classic tabbouleh, Mondrian Doha has made sure that it has everything this Ramadan.

The night started with a very gracious serving from the Middle Eastern cuisine side with the zesty chicken machboos. The seasoned rice and the BBQ’d chicken were an excellent blend of flavour to kick the night off. Even though I had now consumed my fair share of rice, I don’t think any Ramadan evening is complete if you don’t try the Ouzi. Slow cooked lamb with roasted nuts and raisins served succulent over rice which is mixed with the spices and gravy of the meat – absolutely exquisite.

I moved on to the live burger station and got myself a cheesy, juicy beef burger, which by the way is good enough to share, given the variety of food available at the tent. A BBQ and Shawarma station will always welcome you with arms wide open at Mondrian Doha and I would recommend eating these hot off the grill. And that’s not all, I haven’t given you a review for the butter chicken yet! We all know that this dish can be tricky but This place got it right, my fellow curry fans!

The right amount of tanginess compliments the sweet taste of the sauce as you bite into soft boneless chicken.

While I do understand that not everyone can break their fast with a huge meal, Mondrian Doha’s got you covered with an entire table set for salads. From their potato salad to a make-yourown salad setup, you don’t need to worry about feeling heavy here. A variety of fresh juices are available to quench your thirst and you always have the option to take it slow.

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As you all know, for me, no meal is complete without a visit to the dessert station. This night was no different and I was very pleased to see the variety of desserts being offered – fresh fruits, baklava, puddings and a range of tarts wait for you like there is no tomorrow! My choice for the night was the creamiest cupcake from Magnolia, the cheesy kunafa, rasgullas with syrup dripping from them and the ever-refreshing mango mousse. After trying a bit of everything, I finally felt like my Ramadan Tent experience was complete.

Mondrian Doha always lives up to the benchmark they have set since their launch and their Ramadan spread is nothing less than fantastic. With the variety they offer, we certainly know that this will be one of our top three choices for the month – and should rightly be yours too! ✤

GO: SERVED DAILY FROM SUNSET ONWARDS. IFTAR : QR225 PER PERSON. SOHOUR : QR275 PER PERSON. UNDER SIX-YEAR-OLDS DINE COMPLIMENTARY / KIDS AGED SIX TO 12 WOULD BE 50% CHARGE. SHISHA IS QR120. CALL 4045 5999 FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION. fact magazine

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CULTURAL ICON:

NATIONAL MUSEUM OF QATAR THE NATIONAL MUSEUM OF QATAR, SPREAD OVER A STAGGERING 52,000 SQUARE METRES, AND WITH A ROUTE EXTENDING OVER 1.5 KILOMETRES, HAS OPENED ITS DOORS TO WELCOME VISITORS WHO WANT TO EXPLORE THE EVOLUTION OF QATAR THROUGH CREATIVE STORYTELLING AND ARTISTIC WORKS.

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• ARTS

T

he National Museum of Qatar is set out chronologically, beginning with the period before the peninsula was inhabited by humans, and continuing up to the present day. From the entrance the route passes through a succession of impressive multi-shaped spaces until it reaches the museum’s grand finale: the painstakingly restored Palace of Sheikh Abdullah bin Jassim Al Thani.

Now literally encircled by the disks of the new building, the restored palace is perhaps the most significant monument in Qatar, as it was the former seat of government and also the site of the original National Museum of Qatar. The old and the new fold into each other.

The museum tracks Qatar’s evolution and development. The story is told through a succession of films and multimedia displays, presented on a grand scale, accompanied by exhibits including archaeological and heritage objects, jewellery and other treasures, as well as manuscripts and documents.

Around the park, major artist commissions created specifically for the museum add to the story.

Along the museum path our story is told with a grand cinematic atmosphere created by a series of eight art films produced specifically for NMoQ by noted international filmmakers in association with the Doha Film Institute. These massive movie projections map the surfaces of the curving and flowing walls of the galleries, bathing the visitor in the emotional charge of our journey. Each filmmaker interpreted a chapter of the story in his or her own way. For the visitor the result is an ever-evolving adventure of visual delights and surprises.

The films are monumental in their vision and physical scope.

An international team of artists and engineers collaborated using cutting-edge cinema technologies to create what will be, at the time of the opening, the largest cinema projection presentation, at the highest resolution, anywhere in the world.

All the films were produced by the Doha Film Institute and shot within the borders of Qatar and the surrounding ocean waters. They are projected on the interior walls of the museum using a vast array of projectors and video servers designed and manufactured specifically for the needs of the museum, allowing a clarity of resolution never before seen at this scale.

In addition, there are four video installation: two large format oral histories created by Jon Kane capturing people’s memories, a film on the Father Amir and his legacy created

by Tala Hadid and two young Qatari film-makers, Rowda and Amal Al Thani, and a video installation responding to Qatar’s innovative investment in LNG, Alchemy, by John Sanborn.

Among the permanent exhibits are many exquisite bespoke models made by craftspeople and artisans – models of boats, buildings and archaeological sites, of animals and creatures of the sea.

Layered interpretation in the galleries enables visitors to research at the level they choose. Oral histories, a key resource for the museum, feature strongly. These will be

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ARTS •

continually recorded and updated – indeed, all the content of the museum is designed to morph and grow.

Infographics range in scale from the very large to the very detailed: how deeply visitors will explore depends on whether they wish to gain an overall picture or zoom in on a particular subject. Over repeated visits, there will always be more to discover. All texts are written in Arabic and English.

“A visit to the National Museum of Qatar is an all-encompassing journey, carrying you from millions of years ago to the edge of tomorrow,” says Sheikha Amna bint Abdulaziz bin Jassim Al Thani, Director of the National Museum of Qatar. “The journey sweeps you across the inland desert, and plunges you into the depths of the sea. It embeds you among nomadic poets and artisans, and ushers you into today’s gleaming towers and bustling refineries,” she continues. “Music, storytelling, commissioned artworks, ancient artifacts, rare and precious objects, and dazzling, monumental films are all part of the experience, which combines wide-ranging scholarship with the authentic faces and voices of the people of Qatar—the true source and inspiration for this museum.”

The National Museum of Qatar is organised in three fact magazine

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General admission will be QR50 for adults; QR25 for students and free for children under 16, Culture Pass Plus and Culture Pass Family Members, and visitors with disabilities. Tickets will be free of charge for Qatari nationals and residents of the State of Qatar, with a valid Qatar ID. General admission tickets include exhibitions within the museum and are valid for three consecutive days from the date of first admission. Museum Pass is QR100 and permits admission to all museums and venues, valid for three consecutive days from the date of first admission.

LOCATION: Museum Park St, Doha, Qatar TEL: 4452 5555 WEBSITE: www.nmoq.org.qa/ EMAIL: infonmoq@qm.org.qa TWITTER: @NMOQatar INSTAGRAM: @NMOQatar FACEBOOK: @NMOQatar

‘chapters’: ‘Beginnings’, ‘Life in Qatar’, and ‘The Modern History of Qatar’. Within these chapters are eleven galleries.

The entrance to the museum is marked by a specially commissioned art work by Qatari artist Ali Hassan Al Jaber, Wisdom of a Nation, whose geometric design draws on the image of the Qatari flag and an excerpt from a poem by the founder of modern-day Qatar, Sheikh Jassim bin Muhammad Al Thani. Just before the entrance to the permanent galleries is a work by the Qatari artist, patron and collector Sheikh Hassan bin Mohammed Al Thani, Motherland, evoking the connections between the desert, the sea, and the women of Qatar.

THE PARK The museum is surrounded by a 112,000-square-metre park with gentle landscaping, a broad 900-metre-long artificial lagoon, gardens with large green areas, paths and walkways, designed by French landscape architect Michel Desvignes on the overall plan for a natural, truly Qatari setting for the museum.

All the abundant plantings, including many large trees, are of native species. There are eleven varieties of date palm. As well as new trees, an existing stand of large sidra trees has been carefully preserved. This local tree is especially close to the hearts of the Qatari people who regard it as symbolic of their country. All the smaller plants in the park are desert species, including shrubs, herbs and grasses. Everything relates to the land and history of Qatar, and reveals a remarkable diversity given the desert location of the country.

Visitors to the museum will be able to wander freely through the gardens, which at cooler times will also provide a delightful setting for picnics. At night, the building will gently glow in the landscape, lit by Hervé Descottes of the French company L’Observatoire International. ✤ 40

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• ENTERTAINMENT

BIG SCREEN Long Shot

Highlights

WHAT’S IT ABOUT:

WHAT’S IT ABOUT?

Fred Flarsky, a free-spirited journalist and Charlotte Field, one of the most influential women in the world, have nothing in common save for the fact that she was his babysitter and childhood crush. As Fred and Charlotte unexpectedly reconnect, he tries to charm her with his self-depreciating humour and the memories of her youth. Eventually sparks fly and lead to an exciting around-the-world romance.

DIRECTOR: Jonathan Levine CAST: Seth Rogen, Charlize Theron

WHY IT’S WORTH WATCHING?

The rom-com to end all rom-coms, Jonathan Levine’s politically inclined Long Shot is bound to be this year’s definite crowd-pleaser. So much more than just your run-of-the-mill romantic comedy, the film touches upon gender dynamics as well as alludes to the election of 2016. Starring Seth Rogen and Charlize Theron, their instant likability and immense star power definitely wins the film some well-deserved brownie points. After quitting his job, Fred Flarsky, an eclectic journalist runs into his old babysitter, who happens to be Secretary of State. With nothing in common except for their past, Fred and Charlotte get closer as she decides to give him a job punching up her speeches for her presidential run.

He helps her loosen up and indulge in new experiences, while she teaches him how to care for something other than his own opinion. A wholesome narrative about two people helping each other and learning to love, Long Shot will warm your heart while leaving you in stitches with its witty humour. Escapism at its finest!

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Aladdin

“

A wholesome narrative about two people helping each other and learning to love, Long Shot will warm your heart while leaving you in stitches with its witty humour.

As young Aladdin stumbles upon a lamp that releases a wisecracking genie, life as he knew it totally changes and he embarks on a magical adventure. What follows is a thrilling stand off with a power-hungry Grand Vizier, who also has his eyes on the lamp that makes your deepest wishes come true.

– Long Shot DIRECTOR: RGuy Ritchie CAST: Will Smith, Mena Massoud, Naomi Scott

WHY IT’S WORTH WATCHING?

Giving us major nostalgia and a muchneeded dose of magic, Disney’s Aladdin will hit you right in the feels. An exciting and vibrant live-action adaption of Disney’s animated classic, Aladdin brings Guy Ritchie’s flair for fast-paced action to the fictitious port city of Agrabah. The film tells the age-old tale of the charming street rat Aladdin, the courageous and self-determined Princess Jasmine and the Genie who may be the key to their future. Aladdin, who is smitten with the Sultan’s daughter, tries to protect the lamp from evil Jaffar, who is plotting to overthrow the Sultan with the help of the magic lamp.

Jasmine’s multidimensional depiction as well as the introduction of a new suitor for the princess, definitely give the film a cinematic edge over its previous renditions. But what makes it stand out from the rest of the Aladdin remakes is Will Smith’s unique portrayal as Genie – are you onboard?

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• ENTERTAINMENT

FULLY BOOKED

ON THE RECORD

FICTION

The Porpoise

By Mark Haddon

DANCE/ ELECTRONIC R&B/SOUL

Beauty Marks

By Ciara

Calling all Ciara fans! After taking some time off to focus on her personal life, the singer-songwriter is ready to introduce us to a whole new era. From seductive slow jams and hype dance tracks to delivering epic pop culture moments, Ciara always leaves us wanting for more.

Thankfully, the Atlanta queen is back in full force! Dedicated to the love of her life, “Greatest Love” is completely adorable and sensuous at the same time. Offering a different energy yet staying loyal to her discography, the song sees Ciara going back to her slow-tempo roots. An absolute feast for the senses! Undertaking a new musical direction, Ciara aims to level up with her latest offering. Another absolute banger, “Dose”, is the vibrant motivational track you need in your life. A rhythmic, bassy backdrop and bright vocals will have you falling in love with Ciara all over again! Featuring artists like Kelly Rowland, Macklemore and Tekno, the album is on its way to becoming a surefire hit. Her most extensive and personal record ever, Beauty Marks introduces Ciara back into the music industry.

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No Geography

By The Chemical Brothers Having stood the test of time with their enchanting sound, Tom Rowlands and Ed Simons have been mesmerising us with their musical genius for 25 years now.

Discovering new avenues and dimensions, the futuristic Manchester duo’s newest offering is another step in the right direction. “Gravity Drops”, a techno-laden contemplative single, is definitely one of their more downtempo numbers in a while. It’s infectious and catchy beat has us pressing repeat! The duo has been known for their savvy recruitment of various star vocalists over the years. Diverging a little from their usual formula, the album features only two relatively unknown vocalists. Retaining a playful bounce, the album is packed with their signature bass lines and hard-hitting beats. “Free Yourself” encourages listeners to get out of their box. The synth-fueled track creates a multidimensional odyssey of deep grooves and breathtaking vocals. Our new favourite dance track! Another hit soundtrack in the making, No Geography reminds fans and critics alike why The Chemical Brothers have managed to thrive and rise above their contemporaries.

After losing her entire family in a plane crash, a newborn baby is raised in wealthy isolation by her overprotective father. She knows nothing about the rumours of a beautiful young woman, hidden from the world. When a suitor comes to win her hand, he understands far more than he should. Forced to run for his life, he escapes aboard The Porpoise, an assassin on his tail. What follows is a wild adventure that shifts into different time periods, with strong fantastical elements.

NON-FICTION

TThe Source of Self Regard: Selected Essays, Speeches, and Meditations

By Toni Morrison Toni Morrison’s signature elegant style and literary prowess offers a clever commentary on society, culture and art. The rich selection of essays is divided into three partsthe first is introduced by a powerful prayer for the dead of 9/11; the second by a searching meditation on Martin Luther King Jr., and the last by a heart-wrenching eulogy for James Baldwin. Talking about everything from contested social issues to human rights, the book is definitely food for thought.

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• FACT DINING AWARDS

FACT hit a milestone with our fifth annual FACT Dining Awards in Doha, held on April 7th. In another glamorous awards ceremony, the much-anticipated event was attended by close to 400 guests who turned out for an evening of great food and drinks at one of the city’s most popular hotspots, Iris at Sharq Village & Spa.

T

he who’s who of Doha’s hospitality industry attended the elegant ceremony turned lavish party, which attracted top GMs, F&B Directors, Chefs, Marketing and PR professionals, and selected Doha bloggers and social media influencers.

Embodying FACT’s down-to-earth and fun approach, the event was a laid-back and casual affair with lots of fabulous food, free-flowing drinks and a lively vibe.

A total of 74 awards were given out across 37 categories which covered over 200 venues who garnered a staggering 38,000 unique online votes, cast by the public in Doha. Here are the winners:

AL FRESCO DINING

BEST: Q Lounge, Banana Island Resort Doha by Anantara FAVOURITE: Al Terrace, Souq Waqif Boutique Hotels

ALL-DAY DINING

BEST: Olive Oil, City Centre Rotana Doha FAVOURITE: Flying Carpet, The Torch Doha

BAR

BEST: Manko, InterContinental Doha Hotel & Residences FAVOURITE: La Vista 55, InterContinental Doha The City

BREAKFAST

CASUAL DINING

BEST: Vapiano, Various Locations FAVOURITE: Sumo Sushi & Bento, Various Locations

CHINESE

BEST: Hakkasan, The St. Regis Doha FAVOURITE: Shanghai Club, ShangriLa Hotel Doha

CLUB

BEST: Society Lounge, Hilton Doha FAVOURITE: Oxygene Club, La Cigale Hotel

EUROPEAN

BEST: Santa Monica Breakfast Club, Grand Hyatt Doha Hotel & Villas FAVOURITE: Meesh Café, Crowne Plaza Doha, The Business Park

BEST: Opal by Gordon Ramsay, The St. Regis Doha FAVOURITE: Market by Jean-Georges, W Doha Hotel & Residences

CAFÉ

FAMILY-FRIENDLY BRUNCH

BEST: Café Murano, Marsa Malaz Kempinski, The Pearl – Doha 46

FAVOURITE: MIA Café, Museum of Islamic Art

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BEST: Garden Brunch at La Veranda,

FACT DINING AWARDS •

Sheraton Grand Doha Resort & Convention Hotel FAVOURITE: Santa Monica Breakfast Club, Grand Hyatt Doha Hotel & Villas

FAMILY-FRIENDLY

BEST: The Italian Job, Radisson Blu Hotel Doha FAVOURITE: Carluccio’s, Various Locations

FRENCH

BEST: IDAM, Museum of Islamic Art FAVOURITE: Paul, Various Locations

FRIDAY BRUNCH

BEST: The St. Regis Grand Brunch, The St. Regis Doha FAVOURITE: Bubbalicious Brunch, The Westin Doha Hotel & Spa

INDIAN

BEST: Taj Rasoi, Doha Marriott Doha FAVOURITE: Signature by Sanjeev Kapoor, Crowne Plaza Doha West Bay

IN-MALL

BEST: Jamie’s Italian, Doha Festival City FAVOURITE: Sazeli, Mall of Qatar

INTERNATIONAL

BEST: Inginuity, Radisson Blu Hotel Doha FAVOURITE: Teatro, City Centre Rotana Doha

ITALIAN

BEST: La Spiga by Paper Moon, W Doha Hotel & Residences FAVOURITE: L’incontro dei Sapori, Salwa Road

JAPANESE

BEST: NOBU, Four Seasons Hotel Doha FAVOURITE: Morimoto, Mondrian Doha

LATIN AMERICAN

BEST: Toro Toro, Marsa Malaz Kempinski, The Pearl – Doha FAVOURITE: Rodizio, Crowne Plaza Doha, The Business Park

LEBANESE

BEST: Al Mourjan, Corniche

FAVOURITE: Burj Al Hamam, The Pearl Qatar

LOUNGE

BEST: IRIS, Sharq Village & Spa FAVOURITE: Secret Garden, Marsa Malaz Kempinski, The Pearl – Doha

FAVOURITE: Al Hubara Brunch, Sheraton Grand Doha Resort & Convention Hotel

SEAFOOD

MEDITERRANEAN

BEST: Al Sultan Brahim, The St. Regis Doha FAVOURITE: Al Sayyad, Diplomatic Club

MIDDLE EASTERN

BEST: Al Jalsa Shisha Garden Lounge, InterContinental Doha The City FAVOURITE: Aqua Lounge, Marriott Marquis City Centre Doha

BEST: CUT, Mondrian Doha FAVOURITE: Mykonos, InterContinental Doha Hotel & Residences

BEST: Takht-e-Jamshid, Al Hazm Mall FAVOURITE: Al Nahham, Banana Island Resort Doha by Anantara

MOROCCAN

BEST: Argan, Souq Waqif Boutique Hotels FAVOURITE: Tajeen, Souq Waqif

NEWCOMER – CASUAL DINING

BEST: Torino Steakhouse, Tawar Mall FAVOURITE: Maya, Kempinski Residences & Suites

NEWCOMER – FINE DINING

BEST: Indego by Vineet, The Pearl Qatar FAVOURITE: STK, The Ritz-Carlton Doha

NORTH AMERICAN & CARIBBEAN

BEST: Diner Station, Various Locations FAVOURITE: Cheesecake Factory, Various Locations

PUB

BEST: CLAW, DoubleTree by Hilton Doha FAVOURITE: Stock Burger Co. Doha, Holiday Inn Doha, The Business Park

SHISHA TERRACE

SOUTH EAST ASIAN

BEST: Zengo, Kempinski Residences & Suites FAVOURITE: Elements, Four Seasons Hotel Doha

STEAKHOUSE

BEST: JW’s Steakhouse, Doha Marriott Hotel FAVOURITE: New York Steakhouse, Marriott Marquis City Centre Doha

TEA ROOM

BEST: Tea Garden, The Torch Doha FAVOURITE: Magnolia, Mondrian Doha

THAI

BEST: Sabai Thai, The Westin Doha Hotel & Spa FAVOURITE: Isaan, Grand Hyatt Doha Hotel & Villas

RESTAURANT OF THE YEAR

BEST: La Mar, InterContinental Doha FAVOURITE: Spice Market, W Doha Hotel & Residences

QATARI

BEST: Walima, Mondrian Doha FAVOURITE: SMAT, Al Salata

SATURDAY BRUNCH

BEST: Royal Thai Brunch at Sabai Thai, The Westin Doha Hotel & Spa fact magazine

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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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• STAYCATION SPOTLIGHT

THE FINEST ADDRESS IT DOESN’T COME AS A SURPRISE THAT THE ST REGIS DOHA IS COINED AS ‘THE PERFECT URBAN ESCAPE FOR YOU AND YOUR LOVED ONES’. CRAIG FERRIMAN IGNITES US WITH HIS REMARKABLE STAYCATION BUT WE CAN’T HELP BEING OVERLY JEALOUS.

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STAYCATION SPOTLIGHT •

S

t Regis has always been synonymous with class and it’s often referred as the address to stay at in Doha. It’s built so beautifully and impossible to miss from the sea – a halfway house between the hectic West Bay skyline and the residential and recreational island of The Pearl. This is a hotel that doesn’t want to be compared to any others. It wants to be in a league of its own and though I’d visited it many times, my stay there this time made me realise just how leagues ahead of the rest this place is.

The hotel is like a castle. Long corridors with crisp white walls, separate wings and many outlets. It’s easy to get lost in it. I had the pleasure of staying in an empire suite with two king size bedrooms, a lounge that was bigger than my apartment, a dining area and two en-suites with the master bathroom having a TV in the bath so you absorb a movie or TV show while soaking in the tub.

The rooms have classical white walls and cream carpets, but, have wonderful touches like the black archways that lead into the bathroom, or the ante-chamber filled with closets for hanging clothes and a chaiselong to sit on while pondering what to wear! It’s also the only hotel I’ve ever known that still has a nineteenth century tradition of a butler service. Natalia introduced herself to me once I’d checked in and was on hand to assist with anything during my stay.

Not long after I’d arrived, hung everything up and pondered what to wear, I started getting to grips with the geography of the property. Not that easy it must be said, the place is huge! Or feels it anyway. I got to The Rooftop for a sparkling aperitif and enjoyed the unrelenting glamour of the place. A DJ was spinning some house music as guests started the

evening and the place got busier as the evening went on though it was a touch windy that night. As long as there isn’t a breeze, it’s a great space to gather and a good party spot.

My first night dinner was in the main international dining venue, The Vine. My innate snobbery set low expectations and I rather anticipated a mass food bog standard buffet service but I was warmly surprised. It was a buffet, but, it was far from bog standard and the standard was high.

A great range of international options were served in the spacious and refined dining room. The Vine also has plenty of outdoor seating where fresh stands served barbecue seafood and I tucked into a little lobster having tried some hummus and Arabic salads inside first. The evening food packages there are well priced and service from staff is impeccable.

The Vine also serves a good breakfast. The buffet serves mostly what fact magazine

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you’d expect from Western to Arabic hot options to fresh fruit and yoghurts but it was the small menu of a-la- carte items that you can order which give the breakfast distinction. The crab royal for example was good. It’s poached eggs to order on bread with a little crab and went down a treat. There are a number of excellent dining options and short of having an extended stay there, it would be impossible to eat in all of them. I did have lunch in Gordon Ramsey’s casual dining outlet, Opal.

Outdoor terrace seating is ideal in the cool afternoon breeze looking out to sea with a menu of popular European bistro dishes and the full range of choice from the Raw Bar which is attached to Opal. The Raw Bar kind of does what it says on the label so I opted for a platter of sushi before opting for the battered fish and chips. The chocolate and amaretti pudding with crème Anglaise got me into a pre-prandial state perfect for a late afternoon slumber by the pool. You’ll have seen pictures of the pool in any promotional literature for St Regis. The Olympic size pool punctuates the open space between the two wings of the hotel. I swam the 50 metre length of it and was ready to lie down again in a side sunlounger though saw larger groups gathering as cabals in cabanas!

Food guilt kicked in on day two after eating so much so I headed to the gym. Their gymnasium is rather big but rather empty too or at least it felt that way every time I visited. Perhaps I was just lucky but it did feel as if I had the place to myself and there was no fight for one of the many treadmills or cross trainers.

On my last night I made a pleasant discovery. A new pop-up restaurant has launched by the pool called Riyasat. Tables laid out with lanterns and lots of fairy lighting make for a sunning setting with the backdrop of the hotel and a view of the beach. Staff brought food from a set menu of Northern Indian dishes which contained more than a bit of kick to it. The food was delicious. So much to do at St Regis and never enough time. You can’t fault them. They give you a slice of paradise and leave you wanting to come back for more. ✤

GO: CALL 4446 0000 FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION.

“

THE ROOMS HAVE CLASSICAL WHITE WALLS AND CREAM CARPETS, BUT, HAVE WONDERFUL TOUCHES LIKE THE BLACK ARCHWAYS THAT LEAD INTO THE BATHROOM, OR THE ANTECHAMBER FILLED WITH CLOSETS FOR HANGING CLOTHES AND A CHAISE-LONG TO SIT ON WHILE PONDERING WHAT TO WEAR!”

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• GLOBETROTTER

LONDON

CALLING ANGELA BEITZ DISCOVERS TRUE GRAND LUXURY RIGHT IN THE HEART OF THE BRITISH CAPITAL

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AT THE RENOWNED CORINTHIA LONDON…

s Samuel Johnson once quoted: "When a man is tired of London, he is tired of life; for there is to London all that life can afford.” Apart from the great city itself, London offers so much in the way of hotels that it's hard to make a choice that you know is going to be just right. There are just so many options to choose from and so many great areas to pick that it ,can be quite the dilemma in knowing where to stay.

The Corinthia London in Whitehall Place is the perfect choice and captures both style and substance for its guests. Built in the late nineteenth century and situated at the end of Northumberland Avenue directly across the Thames and from the London Eye, this hotel is the perfect location to discover all of this vibrant city.

Everything is well within reach with Oxford and Regent Streets just a short walk away and and even shorter walk to Trafalgar Square and The National Gallery. Whilst staying here, all the must-visit spots are literally on your doorstep yet inside the hotel you feel relaxed and a world away from all the hustle and bustle of the busy city.

While the hotel is truly opulent, it also manages to mix elegance and character giving off the vibe of a stylish boutique hotel with both warmth and history. You won't be able to avoid the stunning Baccarat chandelier in the lobby lounge with its 1,001 crystals sparkling overhead in the Crystal Moon Lounge where traditional afternoon tea is served. This area is buzzing with both hotel guests and people here for meetings and high tea and it boasts a great atmosphere. This is a truly beautiful part of the hotel with a quaint florist off to one side of the entrance selling the exact floral arrangements that are dotted around the hotel. Staff are sophisticated and welcoming and nothing seems too much trouble; our check in and baggage was handled brilliantly and they were very helpful in giving us any directions or help necessary.

The Corinthia’s 294 rooms, including 40 suites and seven two-storey penthouses, are decorated in gorgeous, contemporary hues with high ceilings and large windows and are simply some of the smartest looking hotel rooms we've seen. There is so much attention to detail put into the rooms and the décor; we especially love the small touches.

The rooms are tastefully styled in warm tones mixed with bold hints and provide the perfect balance between the history of the hotel and the modern feel of today. Space is abundant in even the smallest room which is a novelty for a London hotel.

The marble bathrooms are a real feature of the hotel and are spacious and luxurious with a built-in TV at the foot of the bath and high-end ESPA branded toiletries are replenished daily. There is also a huge rain shower, and heated floor and towel rack for the chillier months.

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This is the perfect place to rejuvenate and to take a long hot bath after walking around the city all day.

The hotel has many great dining venues and there are four bars and two restaurants in total. The Northall celebrates the Great British kitchen showcasing the breadth of Britain’s culinary strengths. Breakfast is served here also and it is a real treat with excellent service. The menu focuses on seasonality, sustainability and traceability through close relationships with artisan producers.

The breathtaking dining room is adorned with glittering mirrored panels and expansive picture windows, while two private dining areas offer ultimate seclusion for special celebrations and corporate events. The Northall Bar is the home of chic socialising in London. It's the ideal place to meet for a glass of bubbly or classic cocktail, and it offers a lunch and dinner menu for casual occasions. Bassoon Bar is also an excellent venue, designed by David Collins Studio, Bassoon is a London destination bar with attitude. Combining a relaxed and intimate ambience with a stimulating dash of theatre, Bassoon pays homage to the arts of the finest bartenders in the capital.

The absolute must-try is the high tea at Crystal Moon Lounge; illuminated by the spectacular Baccarat chandelier and decorated with effortless flair, the Crystal Moon Lounge is the perfect venue for afternoon tea. Tantalising cakes and fancies are inspired by each season, served alongside a selection of teas and the finest bubbly. Eclectic seating teamed with bespoke Richard Brandon's fine china tea sets and Baccarat crystal glasses set the scene for what's bound to be a delightful afternoon. This is a really lovely experience and something you will remember as a decadent treat.

ESPA Life at Corinthia London is one of the largest and most exclusive in central London and has been quoted to be one of the best in the city. Offering a holistic approach to wellbeing with an unrivalled choice of spa, alternative therapies, fact magazine

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GLOBETROTTER •

fitness, beauty treatments and a Daniel Galvin Hair Salon, the expert team of leading naturopaths, traditional Chinese medicine acupuncturists, and herbalists, osteopaths, personal trainers and spa professionals, promote optimal health and wellbeing through personal lifestyle programmes. The spa is stunningly designed in cream and black marble with several modern fireplaces adding to the serene atmosphere.

This grand historic property turned opulent hotel, is not to be missed. ✤

GO: VISIT THE CORINTHIA LONDON, WHITEHALL PLACE, LONDON. CALL +44 207 930 8181 FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION. fact magazine

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• PLUGGED IN

APP-LICIOUS LET’S SEE WHAT’S ON THE SMARTPHONE AGENDA FOR MAY…

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Google Trip

Asana Rebel

Be it a quick getaway or a relaxing vacation, Google Trip will make traveling easy and stress-free. The efficient travel app turns your smartphone into an all-inone travel assistant, consolidating travel itineraries and reservations from your emails into automatically sorted trips.

Google automatically collects your flight details, hotel and car reservations, tour itineraries and other information available in your emails, while also providing recommendations, suggested day plans, and related local sights and attractions based on your tastes, interests and local travel tips. Road trip, anyone?

Stretch your stress away with Asana Rebel! With health, fitness and weight loss in mind, the app offers a mix of more than 100 different workout routines and matching video tutorials designed by yoga and fitness experts, with personalised lists to match your fitness goals as well as curated collections.

It also lets users individualise their workouts by their training goals, duration, intensity, or collection, as well as choose from an array of workouts to find the one just right for them. Getting fit has never been easier!

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Al Andalusia R A M A DA N T E N T

Al Andalusia tent is set at our rooftop, with the décor

، ‫ ﺷﻴﺪت ﺧﻴﻤﺔ اﻷﻧﺪﻟﺴﻴﺔ ﻋﲇ ﺳﻄﺢ اﻟﻔﻨﺪق‬:‫ﺧﻴﻤﺔ رﻣﻀﺎن اﻷﻧﺪﻟﺴﻴﺔ‬ . ‫ﻣﻊ اﻟﺘﺼﻤﻴﻢ اﻟﻠﺬى ﺳﻴﻌﻴﺪﻧﺎ ﰲ اﻟﺰﻣﻦ اﱄ اﻟﻠﻴﺎﱄ اﻟﴩﻗﻴﺔ ﰲ اﻷﻧﺪﻟﺲ‬

Celebrate the Holy month of Ramadan at Al Andalusia tent for Iftar or Suhoor featuring Arabic & International cuisine, accompanied by the soothing sounds of our Oriental entertainment.

Shisha is available.

Individual Rates QR 200 for Iftar QR 180 for Suhoor Early Bird Special Rates for groups for Iftar or Suhoor booked before the 1st of May, 2019

‫اﺣﺘﻔﻞ ﺑﺸﻬﺮ رﻣﻀﺎن اﳌﺒﺎرك ﰲ ﺧﻴﻤﺔ اﻷﻧﺪﻟﺴﻴﺔ ﻋﲇ اﻻﻓﻄﺎر او اﻟﺴﺤﻮر واﺳﺘﻤﺘﻊ‬ . ‫ﺑﺎﳌﺄﻛﻮﻻت اﻟﻌﺮﺑﻴﺔ واﻟﻌﺎﳌﻴﺔ ﻋﲆ اﻧﻐﺎم اﻟﻔﺮﻗﺔ اﳌﻮﺳﻴﻘﻴﺔ اﻟﴩﻗﻴﺔ‬

and entertainment that will take us back in time to the oriental nights of Al Andalus.

‫ رﻳﺎل ﻗﻄﺮي‬٢٠٠‫ﻟﻠﺸﺨﺺ اﻟﻮاﺣﺪ ﰲ ﻣﻮﻋﺪ اﻹﻓﻄﺎر‬ ‫ رﻳﺎل ﻗﻄﺮي‬١٨٠ ‫ﻟﻠﺸﺨﺺ اﻟﻮاﺣﺪ ﰲ ﻣﻮﻋﺪ اﻟﺴﺤﻮر‬ . ‫ﺧﺪﻣﺔ اﻟﺸﻴﺸﺔ ﻣﺘﻮﻓﺮة‬ . ٢٠١٩/٥/١‫ﻋﺮوض ﺧﺎﺻﺔ ﻟﻠﺤﺠﻮزات اﳌﺒﻜﺮة ﻣﻦ اﳌﺠﻤﻮﻋﺎت ﻗﺒﻞ ﺗﺎرﻳﺦ‬

For your reservations, please call us on +974 4034 3322 or email: dohot_FB@hilton.com

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• PLUGGED IN

SNAP IT, PRINT IT Since we’re all about that instant camera life, we decided to take the new Canon Zoemini S for a spin! Building on the success of the original Canon Zoemini, which launched in 2018, the newest edition is the perfect pocket-sized companion for encouraging creativity with easy to print, peel-and-stick photos on the go.

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hile we’re all thankful for smartphones and their ability to capture anything, anywhere, we can all agree that nothing beats the joy of admiring a freshly printed photo. Bringing your pictures out of the digital realm, instant camera printers are heaven-sent for anyone wanting to bring their memories to life. Offering ease of use and high-quality prints, these portable printers are perfect for everything from keen photography to holiday snapshots.

Consisting of an eight-megapixel camera, front-mounted mirror, ring-light and remote shutter capability, the Canon Zoemini S is easy to use and will ensure its users are ready to take the perfect selfie in an instant. Whether out shopping with friends, celebrating a birthday party or attending a music festival, Canon Zoemini S users can shoot and print mini photos in a matter of moments on 2x3-Inch (5x7.6cm) Zink™ sticky-backed photo paper. The unique ink-free Zink™ technology makes prints and refills a breeze, while delivering smudge-proof, tear-proof, water-resistant and stickybacked photos to print on the move. Apart from stunning print

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technology, the Canon Zoemini S is also supported by the freeto-download Canon Mini Print App for iOS and Android. The app enables users to print their images directly from a smart device using Bluetooth, as well as edit from an array of creative filters and frames. Users can also remove the challenge of capturing group selfies, simply by using the Canon Mini Print App’s remote shutter and self-timer function for the perfect shot every time! In addition to Instagram and Facebook, the Canon Mini Print app enables users to connect with Google Photos and Dropbox, so they can print physical copies of treasured memories while out and about. The Canon Zoemini S fits easily into a pocket or bag and is available in matte black, pearl white and rose gold. Capturing and sharing everyday moments has never been easier or more fun with this compact and lightweight gadget. We definitely won’t stop playing with it anytime soon! Go give it a whirl and tell us if you agree. ✤

GO: VISIT WWW.CANON-ME.COM FOR MORE INFORMATION.

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• MOTORING NEWS

GENESIS G20 WINS BIG! THE 2019 GENESIS G70 HAS BEEN NAMED A “2019 BEST NEW CAR” BY AUTOTRADER. THE AWARD, WHICH WAS AGREED UPON UNANIMOUSLY AMONG AUTOTRADER EDITORS, WAS PRESENTED TO G70 ON THE BASIS OF ITS CLASS-REDEFINING MERITS. 66

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MOTORING NEWS •

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enesis, the luxury automotive brand, strives to make a positive difference in the lives of discerning customers, thus becoming an important element of their lifestyle. The award-winning Genesis G70, along with the rest of the Genesis luxury line-up of vehicles, is available with Skyline Automotive W.L.L., the official distributor of Genesis in the State of Qatar.

“This award is further recognition of the G70’s outstanding positioning among luxury sport sedans,” said Erwin Raphael, Chief Operating Officer, Genesis Motor America. “We are honored for our new G70 to receive this accolade from Autotrader.”

G70 was selected by the editors of Autotrader from a list of over 300 eligible, new vehicles. Led by Editor-in-Chief Brian Moody, the team of editors spent the year testing interior comfort and materials, build quality, available features and ride quality.

As the first Genesis model in the highly competitive entry luxury segment, G70 outperforms legacy luxury sport sedans with driver-focused performance. G70, which was named the 2019 North American Car of the Year, as well as receiving several other prominent awards in recent months, resets benchmarks and expectations among luxury sport sedans, with holistic integration of performance, body strength, refined luxury and aerodynamic design. ✤

GO: CALL 4489 1111 / 4489 1100 OR VISIT WWW.GENESIS.COM FOR MORE INFORMATION. fact magazine

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FASHION FOCUS •

H&M CONSCIOUS

EXCLUSIVE SPRING 2019 The perfect mix of glamour and effortless style. Inspired by the wonders of planet Earth, the collection explores the healing power and beauty of nature, while also embracing technology and innovation in the development of more sustainable materials and processes for a more viable fashion future.

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he Conscious Exclusive collection is filled with stylish pieces to be worn for special occasions, but also for more relaxed everyday moments. Dramatic details such as ruffles, uneven hems, cut-outs, voluminous silhouettes, deep v-necklines and sparkling sequins are balanced by sporty details such as drawstrings, elasticated waistbands and cuffs. Bold prints inspired by plants and trees are major features and the colour palette is inspired by healing crystals with colours like lavender, aqua blue, petrol blue and coral pink along with black, gold and silver.

The different prints and fabrics throughout the collection can also be beautifully mixed, such as the coral pink organic silk blouse with bell sleeves matched sand and black straight-leg Azurite trousers in recycled polyester. Ruffled maxi-skirts with tight-fitting knit tops, coordinating head-to-toe printed looks, suiting and shimmering sequinned dresses round out the looks.

With its mix of shiny silver natural leather alternative Piñatex and colourful jacquards, the silver jacket is a statement-maker, pair with the matching jacquard skirt and cowboy boots for maximum effect.

Amongst all the floaty, voluminous silhouettes stands the new fashion staple – the designed pool slide. They ground any look with a laidback vibe, but also inject a little fun with its oversized bow.

The Conscious Exclusive collection always features new innovative materials and new materials for this season are; Piñatex, BLOOM Foom and Orange Fiber. Piñatex is natural leather alternative made from cellulose fibres extracted from pineapple leaves. BLOOM Foam is a plant-based flexible foam using algae biomass from freshwater sources at high risk of algal bloom. Orange Fiber is made from citrus juice by-products, repurposing them to create silk-like cellulose fabric. Other sustainable materials are recycled polyester, organic cotton, organic linen, organic silk, TENCEL, recycled plastic, recycled glass and recycled silver. ✤ GO: SHOP THE COLLECTION AT YOUR NEAREST H&M STORE OR ONLINE AT WWW.HM.COM.

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SHOP THE BRAND HERE’S OUR WISHLIST FROM H&M CONSCIOUS EXCLUSIVE SPRING 2019 FOR HER

THIS COLLECTION IS AVAILABLE IN H&M STORES ACROSS THE GULF. 72

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• BEAUTY BOX

Beauty Checklist

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THIS MONTH’S BEAUTY GAME IS SERIOUSLY STRONG…

L’Occitane ALMOND SHOWER SHAKE

Make showering anything but boring!

A decadent, mouthwatering formula, the Shower Shake is like a milkshake for your shower that you blend yourself. Enriched with almond oil from Provence and almond milk, this bi-phase shower gel consists of two different textures that become a deliciously milky formula when mixed together. Tiny steel balls help the phases to mix and create a shaker sound effect.

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Filorga

OXYGEN-GLOW (EYES)

Banish dull and tired-looking eyes. This eye contour care, suitable for sensitive skin, smoothes and revives in the blink of an eye! A highlighter with a cream-gel texture, the high-tech formulation is enriched with decongestant tetrapeptide for enhanced anti-dark circle effectiveness.

Eyes are left refreshed and eye contour is left feeling hydrated and detoxified.

Parfums De Marly CASSILI

Step into the warmer weather feeling refreshed and smelling absolutely irresistible! Appetising, elegant and sensual, the new scent is the epitome of luxury indulgence. A colossal pastel bouquet, the gourmet fragrance offers a delicious blend of velvety fruits and pastel flowers, with a sprinkle of vanilla and wood. The carefully selected ingredients create a vibrant fragrance and blend and blossom once in contact with the skin.

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Fenty Beauty KILLAWATT FREESTYLE HIGHLIGHTER DUO

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Get that lit from within glow.

Afternoon Snack (soft bronzed champagne sheen) and Mo’Hunny (supercharged bronzed champagne shimmer) let you to light up where you want, when you want. These weightless, longwear cream-powder hybrid highlighters melt into the skin with almost zero effort and range from subtle dayglow to insanely supercharged- for all skin tones!

Kat Von D Beauty CAKE PENCIL EYELINER

Take your eye makeup to the next level! The new Cake Pencil Eyeliner is a 100% vegan cream-to-powder pencil eyeliner that combines unprecedented creaminess and intense pigments, with true long wear. Inspired by makeup artists’ favorite iconic cake liner, the new Kat Von D Beauty Cake Pencil gives you the same desired look in one easy-to-use pencil. The pencil eyeliner is available in three shadesthe beloved “Trooper Black,” “White Out,” and “Mad Max Brown.”

Christophe Robin CLEANSING PURIFYING SCRUB WITH SEA SALT A cult favourite DIY treatment for hair detox and post-colour treatments, Christophe Robin’s multi-awardwinning Purifying Scrub with Sea Salt is the holy grail of hair care. Ideal for all types of hair and scalp types from sensitive to oily, the sea salt acts a natural exfoliant to gently eliminate any product or impurities build-up and give the scalp a luxurious massage to boost circulation.

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Royal Iftar Thali Inspired by Contemporary Indian Thali – Experience the varied authentic recipes with divine taste in a “Ramadan Iftar Thali” Set your clock & palate to break the fasting with “Royal Iftar Thali”.

Ramadan Kareem

95 QR Per Person For Reservation +974 3064 5132 +974 4408 0808 reservations@saffronlounge.net

Building # 26, Katara Cultural Village, Doha, Qatar www.saffronlounge.net

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@Saffronlounge

• GROOMING BOX

Grooming Checklist IT’S TIME TO STEP UP THE REGIME AND MAKE APRIL COUNT…

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MIZENSIR PARFUMS POUDRE D’

An addictive blend of explosive floral tones and a decadent blend of paradisone and tiare flower to give a powdery, almost tactile feeling with the inclusion of rare musk and concrete iris, this fragrance is an olfactory fairytale. The underlying notes of sandalwood and vanilla are sure to calm you down and leave you smelling amazing all day long!

PERRICONE M.D. HYPOALLERGENIC FIRMING EYE CREAM

Burning the midnight oil lately? Perricone M.D.’s Hypoallergenic Firming Eye Cream is just what you need! Deeply nourishing yet non-greasy, the cream absorbs instantly to provide essential hydration to the delicate skin around the eyes.

Ideal for dry or delicate skin, this specially formulated, powerful yet gentle cream is designed to firm and smooth skin’s appearance without irritation or sensitivity.

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CERAVE

HYDRATING FACIAL CLEANSER Put your best face forward!

Developed by dermatologists to cleanse and refresh the skin without over-stripping it or leaving it feeling tight and dry, the formula gently cleanses without disrupting skin’s natural barrier. The unique MVE Delivery Technology supplies the skin with a steady stream of nourishment throughout the day and night.

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JAXON LANE 100% HYDROGEL BRO MASK Designed specifically for men, Jaxon Lane’s 100% Hydrogel Bro Mask understands your busy lifestyle and gives you lasting results instantly. Made with advanced hydrogel technology, it is power packed with vitamins, collagen, and plant extracts proven to improve the appearance of skin. The mask targets problems common to men including blemishes, redness, sun damage, and leaves skin feeling ultra hydrated, smooth and glowing.

SACHAJUAN SCALP CONDITIONER Get the best hair of your life. Ideal for dry scalps and dry hair, it is enriched with climbazole and piroctone olamine that help remove dandruff and soothe irritated scalp. Rosemary oil, menthol, salicylic acid, ginger extract and oat oil soothes irritation and redness as well as maintains healthy moisture balance of hair and scalp.

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THE ART OF SHAVING SANDALWOOD SHAVING CREAM A close and comfortable shave has never been easier! Enriched with sandalwood and coconut acid, the shaving cream softens and lifts the beard for the perfect shave, all while protecting skin from irritation and razor burn. The super hydrating and nourishing formula generates a rich and foamy lather that helps protect the skin from irritation by improving razor glide.

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• EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW

PIONEERING

Peruvian Cuisine

Gastón Acurio is the ultimate ambassador of Peruvian cuisine. He is the owner of restaurants in several countries and is the author of many books. In Peru, he is the host of his own television show and contributes to a few magazines too. So, imagine our excitement when FACT got the chance to sit down with the culinary genius on his latest visit to Doha and talk all things Peruvian cooking, accolades, awards and what makes La Mar Doha special…

Congratulations! You picked up the 2018 Diners Club Lifetime Achievement Award – and your team have taken home a cluster of accolades over the years, ranking first in the inaugural Latin America’s 50 Best Restaurants list in 2013, The Art of Hospitality award in 2017, Latin America’s Best Pastry Chef for Gutsche in 2015. After having accomplished so much – what are your goals for the future?

Me and the Chefs of my generation in some way we were entrusted with a mission, it was to make the world fell in love with Peru through our cuisine. We realized that there was this defeatist sentiment, that Peru was not as beautiful as Europe, neither so valuable nor so fancy nor so sophisticated and that if we wanted to have some success in life we had to cook European food, but the chefs of my generation we realized that obviously that was not true, we had an opportunity in the kitchen to show our people we shouldn’t be afraid to be authentic, we needed to create our own dreams and stop imitating something that wasn’t ours. At the beginning it seemed an impossible dream because we encounter a lot of obstacles, the banks did not want to lend you money, the investors did not want to invest in you because you were Peruvian, the risk was very high, getting ingredients was impossible, nobody knew how to make a Peruvian dish, it cost a lot to train the cooks, good locations were given to open Italian or French restaurants, everything seemed impossible. However, we managed to pass that first stage. Now there is the feeling that the mission has been fulfilled and now we have to do other things.

There is already a younger generation that is triumphing in the world of creativity, there are very young guys who are already opening their restaurants. Here in Qatar there are 10 Peruvian chefs in this restaurant. The question is and now what do we do?

We have much more to do in Peru, because there are still some important pending tasks there, issues like; childhood chronic malnutrition, extreme poverty, lack of roots to your identity in a country as diverse as Peru, those things have become a new task for me, I have already contributed to make Peruvian food globally recognized and now I am trying to come back to my origins.

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Talking about accolades, Congratulations on winning Best Restaurant in Doha 2019 at the Fact Dining Awards. How does it feel to have achieved so much success with La Mar Doha in such a small amount of time?

It’s a bit unbelievable to have won so fast, having such important names here as Nobu, Gordon Ramsey or Hakkasan. I did not believe it, but this place is so beautiful, there is a great team working here trying to offer visitors the best experience possible like our Executive Chef Tomas and our General Manager Tomi, and the whole team in the kitchen, maybe a small big difference is that when a Peruvian chef cooks in a restaurant so far from his homeland he is not only making a living he is also representing his country, so he leaves a feeling in every dish he makes, maybe this is what people have noticed.

Looking back at the time when you changed the cuisine at Astrid y Gaston from French to your own Peruvian cuisine, did you foresee that you will be the catalyst for the big global breakthrough of Peruvian cuisine?

I used to dream about having my restaurant someday, that was my dream as a kid, and I made it come true but at the time I wasn’t dreaming about having a Peruvian restaurant, I was dreaming like

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any other chef in the world to open a French restaurant because it was the global trend and what would get you closer to any kind of recognition. But time passes and fortunately you discover your roots you recover your memory and without even realizing it everything begins to change in your kitchen until there comes a time when you are not doing what you did before and you start questioning yourself, you start to think that you are here for a reason and it is at that moment that you make a decision to say ok it does not make any sense to represent another culture that is not yours and even with the fear of losing your clientele you still do it and suddenly one day you appear on a list that you did not even know existed and you are there because you are doing something different, then you realize that this has a great potential and you have to turn it into a strategy with very clear objectives that is to promote your country in the world, use the cuisine as a tourist promotion for your country, for your products for your identity, for your people but to get to that point it was a long process of evolution and reflection.

If you were to prepare one meal for someone who didn’t know anything about Peruvian cuisine, what would you serve them?

Ceviche without a doubt, ceviche is the dish that we are most excited to share, because it is the dish that we share the most among Peruvians, among us, it is a gesture of friendship, it is a fact magazine

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gesture of forgiveness, of celebration, is a dish that you share on a simple occasion or very special one. It is so special for us we designed a restaurant called La Cevicheria, it is a place to celebrate.

Ceviche today is a dish that has become international and is also our most important contemporary ambassador. Moreover, we already know that people will like it, when the General Manager here who is Austrian tried it, he told me the problem of ceviche is that it is so addictive, and you cannot stop eating it. It is apparently a simple dish but to find the right balance of acidity is not easy, that is something that you must carry inside, reading a recipe does not give it to you, there is a precise balance that you achieve only with time, like the cooks here in the kitchen they have been eating and tasting it for years to make it right.

How many times have I seen Spanish friends and chefs who had never come to Peru making ceviches in their restaurants in Spain and when they come to Peru for the first time they try ceviche and say “now I understand everything, it has nothing to do with what I was doing” . It happens a lot with the cuisines that travel around the world, for example the Thai or Vietnamese cuisine, if you have tasted it only outside of Thailand, you would think that it is a little bit sweet, and it’s nothing like that, it is rather citrus, herbaceous, spicy but add a dash of sugar when you read in the recipe. Sugar to someone who has not come to Vietnam or Thailand ends up throwing twice as much sugar because they are looking for a sweet taste that does not exist.

What do you think it is specifically about La Mar Doha that has appealed and continues to draw diners in Qatar to visit the restaurant?

We recently talked to the owner of the hotel and he told me that one of the reasons he thought he liked it was because deep 80

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down they are similar flavours to their own cuisine, a little spicy, cumin spices, the herbal flavors even the citrus flavour, they are familiar flavors. On the other hand, this place is impressive, is really a palace built for Peruvian cuisine, something that even in my most ambitious dream I wouldn’t have imagined, a dream come true in its biggest dimension.

To this day, what is your biggest inspiration when it comes to cooking?

My memory, memory sometimes manifests itself in a landscape, in a place, in a conversation, in a book, in a taste you try, in a photo that you see and that leads you to remember something you had forgotten, it is the memory that wakes up the need to cook something special, for us cooks everything we cook has to be special even the simplest dish. Food is not something vain or ephemeral, the cooks are aware that at the end of our lives our food will be one of the biggest treasures, one of the most valuable things we will remember. That’s why cooking is so important, is an essential activity in our life is something that chefs should try to promote all the time, the importance of cooking, the importance of creating memories at home cooking with your family.

Share with us one of your oldest cooking tips which you still find useful today?

The recipes are just guides don’t restrict yourself by it, for example if you decide today you will prepare Aji de Gallina (Peruvian chicken stew) and you go to the market to find a chicken, but the chicken is not very fresh and suddenly you see some incredible fresh prawns then you can change your mind and say I’ll prepare Aji de Camarones, because with those prawns, whatever you prepare will come out delicious,

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if you have a recipe in mind, don’t make it so strict be flexible, the recipe is just a guide but you can use your imagination and creativity and end up preparing something very rich every day.

Can you tell us a little bit more about The Pachacutec Culinary Institute which you helped to open in 2007 in Peru. How is it different from other culinary schools?

Pachacutec is the name of an Inca Emperor, first of all this school is for young people who do not have the money to pay for a private cooking school, people who have not really had a chance in life, people who have the dream of being cooks but do not have the economic resources to pay an education. In Peru there are no public cooking schools, whoever wants to become a chef has to have economic means so we thought let’s do this school in a place where there are many deficiencies such as Pachacutec which is an area located at the north of Lima city, I though about the young Gaston who was lucky enough to be a chef to make his dream come true and who is now promoting the Peruvian cuisine around the world. There are also many children in Peru with the same dream and couldn’t afford it and today there are more than 500 students graduated from the school , here in La Mar Doha there are 2 cooks that have graduated at Pachacutec, they are all over the world, some are already heads of kitchen, some have already opened their restaurants. I finance the opening of the school in 2007 and have keep it up running till now, we have to give back to the less fortunate the opportunities that life gives to us, the teachers are cooks who work with us who spend a few hours of their normal working hours to teach at school, so we have very good teachers, the best I would say, the students come out with a lot of energy, strength, enthusiasm, they are very good kids.

You are a busy man – tv shows, book launches, restaurant openings – what is your next project?

I am making a beautiful documentary of 100 chapters, it’s about the 100 dishes of Peru nowadays, we are going to try to tell the deepest story of each dish, the feelings around those dishes told by its protagonists, for example, the story of the Italian

grandmother who had to adapt the recipe of her minestrone and turn it into Peruvian minestrone with local ingredients like; tapioca, corn, potato, sweet potato and also we want to hear what a local Peruvian with no Italian origin feels when he eats it because we want to try to consolidate the pride for a nation whose great virtue is its multicultural origins, we want to tell the world the story behind those dishes; wonderful love stories where such diverse and different people were able to share their cultures and transform them into a unique new dish, we want to tell the world that when different people from different cultures get together, only beautiful things happen.

What is your advice for young chefs?

Patience, when I was a kid and studied cooking, to get a recipe, I had to wait until Saturday to go to the library and look for a new recipe, to learn something from another experienced cook I had to invest at least a couple of years working with them , to be able to learn whatever skills he had and took so long to perfect.

So today the kids have tools that play sometimes against them, with a button instead of a recipe you can get a thousand recipes, you can also find out in real time how many chefs are opening new restaurants, winning prizes, and all this information can generates some anxiety, the young generation feels the need to get quick recognition because otherwise they will not make it, missing the opportunity of the slow learning process that will lead you to real success in life. Patience is the best advice I can give the young chefs, patience to wait for your moment, without stressing because life is not as fast or as short as it seems to be in social media, it is about enjoying your learning journey and appreciating the wisdom of old people. Do not stress because in the end the recognition is something that one gains in time not from one day to the next. ✤

GO: VISIT LA MAR DOHA AT INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA HOTEL & RESIDENCES. CALL 4484 4098 FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION. fact magazine

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CULINARY SPOTLIGHT •

INDIAN DELIGHTS

With 2019 being the Qatar-India Year of Culture, it is only natural that the FACT team went on the hunt for the most delicious Indian cuisine in town. FACT’s Anushay Taimur Khan headed to Signature

by Sanjeev Kapoor at Crowne Plaza Doha West Bay to see if the food lived up to the raving reviews.

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hen it comes to Indian cuisine, Doha is not one to be left behind on giving diners options. From street food to fine dining – it is all wrapped up in a delicious aroma that baits me every single time. A visit to Sanjeev Kapoor’s restaurant, Signature, has been pending for a while now. I grew up in South Asia and Sanjeev Kapoor had always been my 6pm date on Zee TV in the ‘90s.

His show Khana Khazana may have sparked my initial interest in Indian cuisine and believe me, I was giddy with excitement, pretty similar to the seven-year-old who watched his show, to try this restaurant again.

A 2019 winner of a FACT Dining Award, I was welcomed to the restaurant with a very insta-worthy entrance.

Living up to the social media life, I took pictures after which I was escorted to my table. I came with an empty stomach to start my seven-course gastronomic journey that night as the head chef gave me a little background about all the dishes. We started the night with the samosa chaat and I feel like that was just the right way to go about it. A bit spicy with a hint of the delicious sweet tamarind sauce with pomegranate, chickpea chaat and spicy yogurt topping on a potato samosa, I couldn’t help but devour this little beauty right away. As soon as I was done, another set of starters poured in and even though I had promised to save myself for the main course, I powered through the delicate double fish kababs like a pro. Perfectly marinated, the amount of salt was ideal for me and the sauces, presented in the colours of the Indian flag, simply elevated the flavour of the entire dish.

Delicious!

Now let’s talk about the big guns: the main course. I dined at Signature a couple of years ago and didn’t really have the best experience. Therefore, this time around, I was very alert about everything; from the quality of the food to the service, I was noticing it all. I really appreciated how my food was presented in a timely manner, giving me ample time to enjoy, relax and get ready for the next course as well as the general flavour of the delicacies.

The biryani and curry were served with Malabar paratha and, as usual, I aimed for the good old biryani to make my foodie dreams come true. However, the curry, for me, was the winner that night. Wrapped in beautiful aromas, the creamy sauce of the dish complemented the chicken which was melt-in-themouth at every bite. I was absolutely blown away with an entire paratha to prove my love for this dish. The biryani, on the other hand, could have been more flavorsome (I blame my Pakistani taste buds for this) but I would not rule it out either. If you have mild taste buds, it’s perfect for you – otherwise, request for it to be extra spicy!

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The meal ended with the most lop-licking gulab jamun, giving us a goodnight hug. Yes, my desserts really mean something to me. If you are not too fond of overly sweet desserts, this may not be for you.

But, honestly, Indian cuisine is incomplete without the dessert so it is definitely worth ordering.

This dinner certainly changed my mind about the restaurant and I left a happy customer – my inner seven-year-old was doing summersaults!

I almost ordered a take out of the curry – it really is THAT good. It’s also the one reason, amongst many others, that will bring be back to Signature by Sanjeev Kapoor very soon. ✤

GO: VISIT SIGNATURE BY SANJEEV KAPOOR AT CROWNE PLAZA DOHA WEST BAY. CALL 4019 8876 FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION. fact magazine

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FOODIE CORNER •

CAFE CULTURE We’re a long way from France but there is a new enclave in the InterContinental Doha The City that houses just a small but significant little piece of Paris that was calling out to FACT’s Craig Ferriman. Enter La Parisienne and get ready for your 101 intro to the famous Parisian café culture…

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he seriously impressive French cafe at Intercontinental Doha The City, La Parisienne has popped up seemingly out of nowhere making perfect use out of unused space in the lobby entrance of the residences. This gives it two additional plus points.

It is accessible from the main road and it’s got outdoor tables and chairs so you can enjoy a coffee and sweet treat al fresco style.

From the moment I discovered it, I felt like I’d walked into petit Paris - a little slice of France yet here in the desert.

Paintings commissioned by a French artist adorn the walls and got shipped over specially for the opening. I was rather dazzled by the authenticity. We sat down at tables that were custom made in Paris and as we took our seats, we had the distinct feeling we were in a classically archetypal Parisian café.

The InterContinental Doha The City has gone all out to make this a success, hiring David Girard from the Dorchester in London to come over as their Executive Pastry Chef. He told me he’s been given complete freedom to run it his way. And it works. The produce is fresh and the quality is very high. His team has sourced the ingredients and personalised their recipes. French customers approve of their macaroons because they taste so real and honest.

The menu is not long but quality is assured. I sampled savoury items first, starting with the Quiche Lorraine which was very fresh and the Pate en Croute which didn’t feature the obvious ingredients you might expect but tasted better than you might imagine. I’ll say no more than that – just make sure you order it!

The Paris-Brest is puff dough filled with praline cream.

They are very proud of it and I understand why. The cream is rich, the dough is exceedingly fresh and the bite is heavenly.

The Lemon Meringue tart was more palate cleansing but generously sized too. The Chocolate Eclair was rather large and oozed on the tongue and it was like there were layers to it as it sang on the back of my throat. Yummy!

I can also heartily recommend the Peanut Chocolate Finger which screams out for attention at you. Edge the fork in and you break into a peanut finger that is laced in milk ganache and chocolate sauce. It’s exquisite!

This is an ideal spot for local residents who can swing by and grab on-the-go or stop for breakfast and enjoy the freshest pain au chocolat, croissant or brioche au beurre with a flavoured coffee. Three schools are located within walking distance and I can see many a parent buying a loaf or a naughty treat from the patisserie section while doing the school run.

This place is at another level when compared to the dozens of cafés around town and yet incredibly the prices are extremely reasonable. La Parisienne could definitely become a hit! ✤ 88

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GO: CALL 4015 8888 FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION.

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ON THE MENU •

CULINARY STORYTELLING Sabai Thai has long been a favourite restaurant of Craig Ferriman’s. The quality of Thai cooking in a gorgeous setting with stellar service makes it an unrivalled dining option but he found himself in for a bit of a surprise when FACT sent him there last month. Why? Well, he had an amazing evening and didn’t eat any Thai food! fact magazine

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hat on earth am I talking about?

Well, there is now a new menu offering at Sabai Thai with a select choice that is a kind of best-ofthe-regional-neighbours list. Sabai Thai has tried to stretch itself and rather than falling on its proverbial face, it has risen to the challenge.

There is a story behind the menu and the food they serve up.

The menu explains that it is a conversation between Tida, a young journalist writing a story about Asian cuisine inspired by her grandmother, Jampha’s recipes and experiences. I wanted to know more of that story and that conversation but I let the food do the talking. It told a tale of authenticity and rich intricate flavour.

I started with what they call Tida’s pick which proved a sensational starter. It was that rather rare treat of a warm salmon salad which was pan-fried with an ensemble of cucumber, cherry tomato, lettuce, chilli honey and lemon dressing which really made it sing. I’m hardly ever as impressed by the starter as I am by the main course but they all stood on their own merit on this menu. That statement could equally be applied to the waygu beef salad. Their shrimp seaweed wraps were delicious especially the accompanying hot sauce and the Singapore chili crab dumpling really got the juices flowing.

There were only five main courses on this Thai restaurant’s alternative menu. It shows they value only serving the very best and not a single dish below par. It was hard to pick a favourite but the beef rendang certainly was special.

Described as Jampha’s secret recipe, it was everything you expected an Indonesian beef curry with ground spices and coconut milk to be with a special but secret twist.

There was only one seafood dish which was astonishing.

The Cambodian grilled lobster with sriracha butter sauce is a must for pescatarians. They do a nasi goreng which I nearly didn’t try, thinking you can get it a lot and what is so special but they nailed it. There are two Chinese dishes that are well known but rarely this good. The kitchen cooked a tremendous five spices roasted duck with bok choi and pickle ginger. Plus, they offer a Szechuan chicken which is a popular Chinese stir fry with capsicum and spring onion in a kickass sauce.

It was impossible to pick a best dish though the beef rendang was a favourite. This food is next level and though it might seem a little weird to go to a Thai restaurant and not eat Thai food, there is nothing wrong with being a bit outside the box especially with the food is this good! Well done, Sabai Thai for keeping things original, creative and exciting! ✤

GO: CALL 4492 1555 FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION. 92

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‫للخــياطة الرجالــية‬

‫كـالسيـك‬

Classic Man for Tailoring

Tel. 4421 9357 94

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ohlala arabia.indd 1

Mob. 3377 2735 P.O. Box: 7346 Doha - Qatar fact magazine

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SPA & WELLNESS •

TAKE ON ME After our wardrobe was no longer proving forgiving and, quite frankly, we had ran out of excuses to not exercise whilst waiting for that overnight miracle, we decided to visit Sheraton Grand Doha Resort & Convention Hotel. FACT reveals all... fact magazine

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sat in the carpark, absolutely terrified. My palms were sweaty, my heart was racing, my brain was going crazy.

After ten minutes, I finally mustered up some courage, yelled at myself, got out of the car and made use of the valet parking 0 probably just as well or I may have turned back and walked through the double doors. I was getting ready to try something I had always wanted to do but had been too scared. I attended my initial health assessment/bespoke personal training session and an hour later, I left a sweaty mess…a sweaty mess with a giant smile on my face.

After too many deliveries from Talabat and falling hook, line and sinker to the infamous ‘expat gain’ I decided to take the plunge in the hope of shedding my muffin top. It is said that the hardest part is just getting started, and that is definitely the case for me.

When I decided that I wanted to be healthier and lose weight, I knew that exercise was a big part of that. I just didn’t know where to start.

The measurements came out and I was literally measured from head-to-toe, it wasn’t intrusive in the slightest and it concreted my will of wanting to lose those extra inches that I’d allowed myself to bypass for so long. We discussed my diet and my need for water. It was very educational and simplistic - they don’t expect you to overhaul your regime overnight - but rather refreshingly realistic. I left the room thinking, no, knowing that I could do this. I was escorted over to the treadmill for an initial warm up before my personal training session. Now, I’m not going to lie to you as this isn’t a walk in the park, but, it was a lot of fun!

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Fitted with the latest in fitness machinery, used by athletes and celebrities alike, and for those interested in losing weight and building muscle, this gym provides you with everything that you need to accelerate your workout. Perfect for us ladies on the go when our time is precious. I’ve found that the personal trainers here are very supportive and adapt to your capabilities with the right amount of ‘pushing’ to enhance your workout.

I have collected a variety of lumps and bump over the years and none more than the dreaded orange-peel effect that has currently taken residence across my lower body. This is where a bespoke massage comes to the rescue! I found that this was exactly the tonic that I needed after my one-on-one session, where I had pleasantly discovered that I was still very flexible but also a bit sore. Prior to my massage I enjoyed the steam room that was decked out with individual seats to allow for optimum comfort. During treatment, my body was soothed in a meticulous fashion consisting of a variety of structured strokes. Simultaneously, my therapist worked away on the cellulite-affected areas. The technique involved promotes blood and oxygen to cellulite-afflicted areas of the skin, after which fluids from the cells are removed during urination, therefore drinking up to eight glasses of water a day after treatment is advised to prevent dehydration.

I found myself enjoying a selection of group fitness classes too, but, my favourite so far has to be the Ladies Only Zumba. The choreography allowed for a full body workout to be delivered effortlessly with the music selection played.

This particular class brought me back to my former days of dancing and I began to feel nostalgic. The community vibe and engaging atmosphere amongst the ladies attending of all ages, shapes and sizes displays is truly a testament to Sheraton itself. One common denominator is displayed throughout… support.

Perhaps you have only just decided to get healthy or you have been on this journey for a while, but just focusing on food. What you eat is really important, but so is staying active! Exercise can be so many different things. I allowed myself to fall into the ‘trap’ of thinking that because you are unfit (and trust me I am), you are unable to do any exercise, or you see people running marathons or doing 100 push-ups in a row and think just because you can’t do that then you can’t exercise at all. Sheraton Grand Doha Resort & Convention Hotel has allowed me to see and more importantly supported me into actually doing something! The added bonus of the impeccable views, beach and pool area alongside the variety of dining options make the overall experience an absolute pleasure and I admonish you to visit this 2019 - it truly has it all. Any form of exercise is better than no exercise at all…

Now, I didn’t think I’d ever be writing that! ✤

GO: CALL 4485 4444 FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION. fact magazine

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DOHA INSIDER

Belal Al-Kadry

General Manager, Sheraton Grand Doha Resort & Convention Hotel

S

heraton Grand Doha Resort & Convention Hotel has announced the appointment of Mr. Belal Al-Kadry, a veteran hospitality professional, as its new General Manager. He will be responsible for strengthening the premier position of Doha’s iconic hotel, and driving its growth in regional and international markets.

Mr. Al-Kadry has 20 years of experience in luxury hospitality, and brings in-depth insights on key industry trends, which will enable Sheraton Grand Doha Resort & Convention Hotel to identify new opportunities, expand its brand reach, and ensure enhanced and memorable experiences for guests.

On being appointed as the new General Manager of Sheraton Grand Doha, Mr. Al-Kadry said: “The Sheraton Grand Doha Resort & Convention Hotel is an iconic property that adds to the civic pride of our city and has redefined the standards of excellence in hospitality. As a part of this nation’s rich history, the hotel has always been one of the most sought-after by guests. I am delighted with the opportunity to join this landmark hotel. My focus will be to further strengthen its brand appeal and to ensure the highest standards of guest service.”

Mr. Al-Kadry is not new to Doha and has earlier served as General Manager of Sharq Village and Spa, where he played an instrumental role in redefining the property of choice for both 98

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business and leisure travelers venturing into Doha and helped in positioning it as a top luxury hotel and lifestyle destination.

A Marriott veteran, Mr. Al-Kadry started his career in 1998 and has worked at various properties in the Middle East holding senior positions. He holds a Degree in Hotel Management and Marketing, and has been nominated and presented with a variety of awards throughout his career, including Sales and Marketing Leader of the Year for Marriott Middle East & Africa in 2008, the Best Iconic Hotel for Starwood in 2015 and J.Willard Marriott Award of Excellence in 2019.

Set by the West Bay and the sparkling blue waters of the Arabian Gulf, Sheraton Grand Doha Resort & Convention Hotel has earned its place through time as an iconic destination and established a long-lasting relationship with several generations of Qatar.

Emerging from a complete renovation, this cultural symbol returns to its former glory, featuring extraordinary 1980s architecture highlighting the region’s exquisite designs, while catering to the needs of the modern social travellers. ✤

GO: VISIT WWW.SHANGRI-LA.COM/DOHA FOR MORE INFORMATION.

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