FACT Qatar May 2022 by Fact ME

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26 42 58 Wanderlust

City Rides

Celeb Chef

CONTENTS

80 92 98 Magical Maldives

Fashion Focus

Matter Of Fact

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• THE EDITOR

Pack Your Bags

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“We travel not to escape life but for life not to escape us.”

FACT Magazine Qatar Edition • MAY 2022 VOLUME 08, ISSUE 11

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

K, despite my concerns for the environment and a fervent desire to cut costs, I am almost ashamed to say, the air-conditioner is now back at full blast both at home and in the office. It’s that time of year when we look back longingly at last month’s balmy temperatures and then look forward with

horror at what we know is coming as we head into summer – sticky nights round the barbecue and feeling hot, even in the swimming pool.

ART DIRECTOR SYED MUHAMMED RAIHAN GRAPHIC DESIGNER SACHAN CHANDRAN PHOTOGRAPHER MIRCO PANACCIO

Thus, our thoughts turn to travel. If, like me, the thought of a mid-summer break is the only thing that keeps you going as your skin sticks to the seat in your four-wheeled oven and you rise before daylight to walk the dog without melting his paws, then this month’s cover story is specially for you.

PRODUCTION & DISTRIBUTION AJIT KUMAR NEIL MAHMOOD

We’ve looked at some slightly different spots, both close to home and far, far away and I hope you’ll feel inspired after reading about them. On the subject of travel, Team FACT also took a delicious trip to three different Maldivian destinations and you’ll find them all highly recommended in our Travel section. Elsewhere, we chatted to culinary star, Chef Dani Garcia, as he visited Doha for the opening of his new restaurant, Lobito de Mar. And checked out three of the city’s dining establishments to bring you our thoughts. We also got behind the wheel of the latest offering from Cadillac, a first for us. As usual you will find lots of news from around the city as well as from the

EDITORIAL & SALES ENQUIRIES chirine@fact-magazine.com DISTRIBUTION DAR AL-SHARQ PRINTED BY AL ANAN PRINTING PRESS, OMAN

worlds of tech, motors, gadgets and more. Eid Mubarak to all and enjoy your reading.

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

CONTRIBUTORS AILSA WHYATT AMAL SARHAN CECILIA LERMAN GARETH WOODS KAY WOODWARD MELISSA NAZARETH

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

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“

“Travel is the only thing you buy that makes you richer.”

ISSUU.COM FACT Qatar 95,440 reads of the April issue. If you need your FACT fix pronto, flick through our monthly online edition on issuu.com for all the best features, including local culture, arts, fashion, food, motoring, tech, travel and more in Qatar and beyond.

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• FACT FINDS

ORGANIC ROOTS Heenat Salma, a farm-cum-lodging space is dedicated to organic foods and a natural lifestyle. It’s been there a while, but has just popped up on our radar.

Pictures: @karendexterphoto on Instagram & Karen Dexter Photography

eenat Salma, an organic farm as well as a successful lodging house, promotes a healthy lifestyle and a return to organic roots. The farm grows desert-friendly plants and vegetables, diversifies local food production and contributes to a renewable, home-grown food supply in Qatar. The project’s aim is to influence the mindset of future generations by raising awareness and promoting education. They offer guests the unique experience of learning and engaging firsthand in farming and gardening in a real working environment. “At Heenat Salma, our initiative is centred around seven key themes: agriculture, wellness, food and beverage, lodging, events, artisanal concept stores and a creative residency. We aim to serve farm-to-table curated menus using our 100% organic farm produce, slow cooked to perfection using artisanal techniques providing wholesome and nutritional food” says Farah Al Yasin, Head of Creative Residency at Heenat Salma. The farm currently oversees and produces more than 50 different crop varieties of home-grown organic fruits, vegetables, dairy products and will soon feature naturally sourced honey and meats. Their Majlis area offers relaxing warm spaces for an experience full of wellness. These include a therapy room, an 8

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outdoor terrace, a lap pool with holistic massage and meditation to balance physical and mental health. The farm also offers educational programmes for children and adults alike on art, crafts and sustainable design. Farah continued: “We are a diverse group of scholars, entrepreneurs, artists and health and wellness professionals that have gathered together to help the preservation of culture and sustainable entrepreneurship. As we embark on this voyage, on Earth that is our home, we aim to become a cultural hub for the community fostering creativity while preserving history and culture. “With the FIFA World Cup 2022 fast approaching, we expect to showcase our offerings to a much wider international audience by providing a variety of traditional lodges for residents and visitors to stay at Heenat Salma and experience first-hand curated offers that will leave them with a sense of rejuvenation, calm, spiritual awakening and balance.” ✤

GO: VISIT HTTPS://HEENATSALMA.EARTH/ OR @HEENAT_ SALMA FOR MORE INFORMATION.

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AT LONG LAST ELIE SAAB Maison has arrived in Qatar, dazzling customers with its elegant pieces and high-quality materials. ELIE SAAB Maison's international development plan continues right on schedule. After the openings in Milan, London, Dubai, Beirut and, recently, Paris, it is now the turn of Qatar, another strategic market for the brand. The space has opened in partnership with Tivoli Furniture, a reference point in the luxury interior design sector since 1978. “Qatar has always been an important market for ELIE SAAB. Our desire was to immerse our customers even further into our personal lifestyle vision, providing them with an all-encompassing experience. said Elie Saab Jr., the CEO of ELIE SAAB. “The maison collection pieces are born from the same ideals, commitment and craftsmanship that we have always invested into the brand's creations. The presence of a prestigious partner such as Tivoli Furniture is a further guarantee that this goal will be achieved,” A dedicated space of 150sq/m has been created on the ground floor of Tivoli’s prestigious showroom located on Al Rayyan Al Qadeem Street near Al Rayyan Park, in the country’s capital, Doha. The space includes two large living areas, a dining area and a suite, to which accessories such as rugs, lighting and textile products have been added, all 10

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of which scream luxury and the highest quality of materials. The unique and individual style of the brand involves inspiration from a particular city dear to the designer: Paris. From herringbone wooden floors to high ceilings that allow light to float in and the beautiful arches that separate the rooms and frame the ELIE SAAB Maison logo, Paris is at the heart of everything the brand creates. "We arrive in Qatar following a precise strategy, the same one we adopt in all the countries we decide to enter and which involves building a project together with an exceptional partner, to whom we can bind ourselves exclusively, creating value around the ELIE SAAB Maison brand. We are very happy with the Tivoli Group alliance and to be able to count on a 40-year-long experience in one of the key markets for the brand,” said Massimiliano Ferrari, President of Corporate Brand Maison (Elie Saab’s expansion arm). ✤

GO: VISIT HTTPS://WWW.ELIESAAB.COM/ COLLECTIONS/MAISON OR CALL TIVOLI FURNITURE ON 4021 2020 FOR MORE INFORMATION.

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PROMOTING LOCAL TALENT Mondrian Doha and Fire Station are collaborating to accelerate Qatar’s budding arts scene. Mondrian Doha, one of the city’s leading hotels that celebrates fashion, art, culture and music, has collaborated with Fire Station on their Artist in Residence programme. The two have come up with a cultural initiative dedicated to supporting Qatar’s art scene by offering local creatives a platform to display their talent. The collaboration was inaugurated with an exhibition titled Metaphoric Growth, aiming to empower and promote Qatari artists and their work, including those in the Artist in Residence programme. The launch of the first series of the exhibition was held at Mondrian Doha’s Frozen Forest Lobby Lounge, in the presence of representatives from Fire Station and the hotel as well as local media. Mikel Ibrahim, General Manager of Mondrian Doha, said: “Art and design have always been an integral part of Mondrian’s DNA. Inspired by Marcel Wanders’ ingenious, sophisticated and original architecture and design, we naturally draw inspiration from contemporary art, heritage, fashion and pop culture. We are proud to collaborate with Fire Station, who are in harmony with our bold and creative identity and share our commitment to empowering local talents to further create, flourish and grow.” Khalifa Al Obaidly, Director of Fire Station Artist in Residence, commented: “We are excited to collaborate with Mondrian Doha to inspire local artists and nurture new 12

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talent as part of the Fire Station’s annual Artist in Residence programme. This collaboration aligns with the Fire Station’s aim to provide a platform that will act as a springboard for established and aspiring artists to explore and showcase their creative talent to Qatar and the world.” Metaphoric Growth highlighted artworks by Fatima Javed, the first Fire Station artist to display her work at Mondrian Doha. Her stoneware paper clay sculptures reflect the transformational process that every individual goes through and encapsulate the emotional transitions. Fatima said: “I am delighted to have my sculptures exhibited at Mondrian Doha in collaboration with Fire Station. Such cultural collaboration provides a significant platform for artists to showcase their artworks to the wider community and art enthusiasts. “Metaphoric Growth showcases stoneware paper clay sculptures that metaphorically reflect the transitional period of my emotions from hardship to stability expressing growth and perseverance. I am grateful for such an opportunity that will enable me to grow and flourish pushing the boundaries for creativity.” ✤

GO: VISIT WWW.SBE.COM/DOHA FOR MORE INFORMATION.

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HELP FOR VISITORS Qatar Tourism (QT) has launched a brand-new Tourism Hotline, a 24-hour service providing information on events and attractions in the country as well as updates on the national tourism sector. Due to the ease of restrictions, the gradual return to some normalcy and reintroduction of frequent travel, Qatar has taken this step to boost tourism and attract more visitors while helping them make the most of their stay. The hotline offers increased accessibility to crucial information about the current happenings in the area, empowering visitors to plan out their visit in their own personal way. Additionally, it provides an important contribution to the national tourism sector’s development, playing a crucial role in supporting stakeholders, partners and investors with key information and updates that will help strengthen the tourism infrastructure and diversity of the country. Commenting on the launch of the hotline, Berthold Trenkel, QT Chief Operating Officer, said: “Qatar Tourism’s unveiling of its Tourism Hotline is a marked step in providing service excellence to the country’s visitors and residents. The hotline will help refine Qatar’s existing offerings and assist visitors, residents and businesses in making informed decisions about their interactions and experiences with the country’s tourism products and services.” 14

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The hotline, which can be reached at 106, is one of many projects by QT that have been designed to assist tourists and residents alike to make the most of their time in the country. The Visit Qatar mobile app, for instance, has also been launched to enhance and widen the digital transformation strategy and has been updated to include a range of languages. The application is a handy guide for anyone visiting Qatar to plan out their itinerary and tailor their stay to their personal preferences. Using cloud-based Adobe Experience Manager capabilities, the application utilises data to tailor user experiences and guides visitors to the country’s many attractions such as its heritage sites, adventure, retail and the rich culinary scene, in addition to the range of events always on offer. The application also offers a 360-degree view of each of the country’s iconic sites. ✤

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

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WORLD FIRST FOR QATAR AIRWAYS The award-winning airline has introduced ‘Sama’, the industry’s first-ever MetaHuman cabin crew member. The national carrier entered the metaverse with the launching QVerse, a novel virtual reality (VR) experience for visitors to the airline’s website. Users of the www.qatarairways.com/QVerse website can now virtually tour and navigate the Premium Check-in area at Hamad International Airport (HIA), the cabin interior of the airline’s aircraft, including the award-winning Business Class - Qsuite, and the economy cabin, by using their own Personal Electronic Devices (PEDs). Qatar Airways (QA) is also the first global airline to introduce a MetaHuman cabin crew member offering a digital interactive customer experience. Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive, His Excellency Mr Akbar Al Baker, said: “With physical boundaries beginning to be challenged by the metaverse on an increasingly larger scale, it is exciting to embrace a technology that enables all travel enthusiasts to enjoy a unique immersive experience of our award-winning products and services. “Our status as the first airline to introduce a MetaHuman cabin crew is testament to our unwavering desire to innovate and delight our customers. We are constantly looking forward to adopting and introducing novel technologies that enhance our passengers’ complete journey.” The experience was developed using Epic Games’ Unreal Engine, the world’s most advanced real-time 3D creation tool, and MetaHuman Creator, a cloud-based app for creating high-fidelity digital humans. Qatar Airways is 16

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the first global airline to introduce a MetaHuman cabin crew, featuring a digitally-created high-fidelity 3D human model named Sama – whose name is of Arabic origin and translates to ‘sky’. Sama offers an interactive customer experience through engagement with the user, taking them on a virtual journey of discovery, while presenting the unique features in both the business and economy cabins through a narrated script. A multiple award-winning airline, Qatar Airways was announced as the ‘Airline of the Year’ by the international air transport rating organisation, Skytrax, in addition to securing five additional awards, including World’s Best Business Class, World’s Best Business Class Airline Lounge, World’s Best Business Class Airline Seat, World’s Best Business Class Onboard Catering and Best Airline in the Middle East. The airline continues to stand alone at the top of the industry having won the main prize for an unprecedented sixth time (2011, 2012, 2015, 2017, 2019 and 2021). The airline’s hub, Hamad International Airport (HIA), was also recently recognised as the ‘Best Airport in the World 2021’, ranking at number one in the Skytrax World Airport Awards 2021. ✤

GO: VISIT WWW.QATARAIRWAYS.COM FOR FURTHER INFORMATION.

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SCHOLARSHIP APPLICATIONS OPEN Students have been invited to apply for a scholarship marking the accomplishments of Ali Alfardan, one of the country’s most prominent businessmen. The Hamilton International School has opened the 2022/2023 applications for the Ali AlFardan Scholarship for Excellence in Education. The scholarship, now in its second year, covers a full year’s tuition fees at the school and will be awarded to one student who has a proven track record of academic excellence and a commitment to their wider studies. All students in Doha, from Grade 6 to Grade 8, can apply with the closing date for applications being May 31, 2022. “We want to encourage students who excel academically, plus demonstrate a commitment to their community through community service and environmental initiatives, to apply for the Ali Alfardan Scholarship for Excellence in Education,” said Terry Senior, Principal of The Hamilton International School.” As the Vice-Chairman of the family-owned Alfardan Group, Ali Alfardan has been instrumental in driving the group’s unmatched growth and progress. Under his expert leadership, Alfardan Jewellery has become an exclusive distributor of some of the most prominent and iconic jewellery and watch brands. Ali Alfardan is also an avid sports 18

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enthusiast and has organised many local sports events such as tennis and squash tournaments. In addition to the Ali Alfardan Scholarship for Excellence in Education, the school will again offer the prestigious Hamilton Principal’s Award. This award, now in its third year, recognises a current Hamilton student who has demonstrated outstanding academic achievements, and provides them with a scholarship of 50% of their tuition fees. “At International Schools Partnership (ISP) we feel it is important to celebrate student successes. The Hamilton Principal’s Award and the Ali Alfardan Scholarship for Excellence in Education further show our commitment to academic excellence and amazing learning,” said Bharat Mansukhani, CEO, ISP Middle East and Europe. ✤

GO: CALL 5043 8885 OR VISIT HTTPS:// HAMILTONINTERNATIONALSCHOOL.QA FOR FURTHER INFORMATION.

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DOHA DEBUT Italian high-end brand Loro Piana has opened its first flagship store in Qatar, at the new Place Vendôme Mall. Working in partnership with Qatari group Ali Bin Ali, Loro Piana launched the store in Lusail City. This is the brand’s second store in Doha, but the first in the city, having opened its travel retail boutique at Qatar Duty Free in Hamad International Airport in 2020. The new store offers Qatari clients a refined and ultrapersonalised, in-store shopping experience through a focused and dedicated product offer, paying homage to Qatari culture with unique and exclusive collections. The luxurious destination, right on the seafront of Lusail, offers a beautiful open plaza experience. Place Vendôme Mall, newly built just outside of Doha, with its beauty and fabulous architecture, aims to be the new fashion hub of Qatar, bringing more than 600 international and regional brands under one roof, creating an exquisite haven of world-renowned Qatari hospitality and opulence. Set across one floor, covering 376sq/m of retail space, the new Loro Piana store has separate entrances for both men and women, each with a dedicated private shopping room. Promising a sophisticated atmosphere reflecting the brand’s high-quality materials and dedication to a supreme customer journey, wall panels are adorned in cashmere fabrics by Loro Piana Interiors and clients are invited to relax in tactile and comforting seating areas with chairs from the 20

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Ginza line, present in all Loro Piana stores worldwide. The store presents the full range of the Spring-Summer 2022 women’s and men’s ready-to-wear collections, distinguished by supple fabrics, lightness and functionality, perfect for the upcoming travel season, alongside a collection of exotic leather goods, accessories and footwear exclusively for the Qatar launch, including the iconic Sesia bag in exotic maroon leather. In honour of the month of Ramadan, Loro Piana also presented an exclusive capsule collection that pays homage to the Middle East by celebrating the art of embroidery and Arabic calligraphy with a unique artistic collaboration through the Arabic word ‫ بح‬which means ‘Love’. The distinctive artwork adorns a rich and fluid collection of sophisticated kaftans, graceful abayas, delicate Shayla's and modest pant suits in both linen and silk cady, complimented by iconic Loro Piana accessories and shoes, in colours and leathers exclusive for the region. The capsule collection and limited-edition leather goods and accessories are available in Qatar throughout Eid. ✤

GO: CALL 6689 8944 FOR FURTHER INFORMATION.

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REWARD YOURSELF! IHG Hotels & Resorts has introduced IHG One Rewards, giving members better benefits and exclusive opportunities. IHG Hotels & Resorts have introduced a new loyalty programme, IHG One Rewards, welcoming guests to enter their next chapter of travel. With nearly 6,000 hotels in over 100 countries worldwide, the hospitality giant has been hard at work while the world was on hold – building its portfolio, repositioning itself in the industry with exciting new brands and partnerships, investing significantly and taking loyalty to new heights. As travellers pack their bags and prepare for their journeys, IHG’s new best-in-class loyalty programme offers them richer benefits, more ways to earn and a new premier credit card, all powered by leading technology on a new mobile app. The reimagined programme connects IHG One Rewards members to IHG Hotels & Resorts’ growing portfolio of 17 brands, including one of the largest luxury and lifestyle collections in the world. The launch of the programme follows the announcement of its new tier and bonus pointearning structure designed to help members earn more points faster and have more ways to use them. Highlights of the programme include a free breakfast for Diamond Elite members as a Welcome Amenity choice; exclusive access to Reward Night Discount Promotions for Platinum Elite and Diamond Elite members; and more opportunities for Elite members to receive early check22

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in, late check-out (if available) and room upgrades. The programme also introduces Milestone Rewards, a new technology-enabled platform that allows members to choose the rewards that matter most to them. Starting at just 20 nights stayed, members will be offered a choice from a selection of rewards every 10 nights, through 100 nights stayed. These Milestone Rewards choices include points, $20 F&B Rewards, confirmable suite upgrades and annual lounge membership. In the coming weeks, IHG Hotels & Resorts will also roll out the new IHG One Rewards mobile app, which will power IHG One Rewards and put the loyalty experience in the palm of guests’ hands. The app is a key element to IHG One Rewards and sets a foundation for future growth. The new, modern experience is more personalised, offers streamlined booking and allows members to stay informed, check-in faster, stay connected to the hotel and travel with flexibility. IHG One Rewards members will be prompted to update the app on their device either through the Apple App Store or Google Play Store. ✤

GO: VISIT WWW.IHG.COM/ONEREWARDS FOR MORE INFORMATION.

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MUCH ANTICIPATED EVENTS Qatar Tourism has announced a new Eid Festival as well as releasing the programme for the upcoming Doha Jewellery & Watches Exhibition. Qatar Tourism (QT) will be hosting the first-ever Eid Festival that will take place from May 3 to 5 at Doha Corniche. Following the resumption of in-person events and festivals, residents and visitors will enjoy three days of exciting family entertainment experiences at the Eid Festival, including the region’s first-ever giant balloon parade, in addition to marching bands, daily firework displays, carnival games and food stalls. This will be followed by the return of the Doha Jewellery & Watches Exhibition 2022 (DJWE) with its 18th edition taking place from May 9 to 13 at the Doha Exhibition and Conference Centre (DECC). As Qatar’s most anticipated exhibition, DJWE will host more than 65 exhibitors, including 500 renowned international brands, as well as exclusive pavilions from Turkey and India. The acclaimed Bollywood star Alia Bhatt is the face of this year’s global campaign for DJWE. Chairman of Qatar Tourism and Qatar Airways Group Chief 24

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Executive, His Excellency Mr Akbar Al Baker, commented: “We are entering an exciting new chapter after a period of great difficulty in the tourism industry, thanks to the collaborative efforts and support from the Ministry of Public Health. We have successfully resumed all tourism activity in time to host the highly awaited FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022, and we have an exciting line-up of events for residents and visitors to Qatar to enjoy.” Qatar Tourism works closely with partners from the public and private sectors to develop products, services and events that attract domestic, regional and international visitors all year round. ✤

GO: VISIT WWW.VISITQATAR.QA FOR FURTHER INFORMATION.

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WANDERLUST Summer is coming and we all know that means some horribly hot weather. It also means many of us are planning our annual getaways. We’re always on the lookout for something a bit different – gorgeous sandy beaches to while away the hours are wonderful but, let’s be honest, that can be a bit of a busman’s holiday. So, we’ve included some beaches but we’ve also sought out some slightly different destinations. All promise plenty of culture, from ancient ruins to awesome architecture, new foods to try, new people to meet, new things to learn and plenty of activity to ward off those holiday kilos. Join us on our travels across the globe this summer. We hope you’ll find something that takes your fancy. 26

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• COVER STORY - CLOSE TO HOME

UAE SAUDI ARABIA Much has changed in the ‘Magic Kindgom’ in recent years, not least of which is its strong desire to attract tourists. The ancient city of Al Ula is at the forefront of the drive to welcome visitors. Saudia airlines and Flydubai both serve Al Ula's International Airport, which has been newly renovated and is located 30-minutes away from the city centre. Having major historical significance, this ancient city was once at the crossroads of the Silk Route and Incense Route. Dubbed ‘The World’s Masterpiece’, it has varied experiences to offer from archaeological attractions and adventure trails to safaris and geological charms. The Heritage Oasis Trail is the best way to explore Al Ula. Starting from Dadan, an ancient kingdom and capital city of the Lihyanite and Dadanite civilisations, it offers an experience of the AlWadi area and the Old Town. Explore the Old Town Market, dotted with a variety of local artisan stores, cafes and more. You can pick up a souvenir from one of the handicraft stores or tuck into speciality local foods. Exhibiting fine rock art, Jabal Ikmah, a mountain near Dadan, has thousands of inscriptions in Aramaic, Dadanitic, Thamudic, Minaic and Nabataean across numerous sites – like an open-air library. Al Aqra’a features more than 450 early Arabic inscriptions and Naqsh Zuhayr features one of the oldest inscriptions of the Islamic era, which dates back to 644 CE. Elephant Rock or Jabal Al Fil is another major attraction. A rock shaped like an elephant, it’s a geological marvel, considering the ‘trunk’ and ‘body’ of this monolithic red sandstone beast were shaped by natural forces — millions of years of wind and water erosion.

Located on the eastern coast of the Indian Ocean – the only emirate on the east coast – Fujairah’s climate is more moderate compared to Dubai or Abu Dhabi and it's certainly less glitzy and busy. Its shores extend for 70km along the Gulf of Oman, making it home to white sandy beaches. Nestled in the foothills of the Al-Hajar Mountains, it’s distinguished by its rugged mountains, valleys, waterfalls and oases. There are several attractions that offer a peek into the history of this emirate. Considered the UAE’s oldest fort, Fujairah Fort was once the residence of the ruling family. Having numerous halls, towers and teak doors, this structure exhibits the traditional aesthetic of Emirati architecture. Surrounding it is Fujairah Heritage Village, which displays the early lifestyle of the locals. Overlooking Wadi Ham, Bithnah Fort is worth visiting too. It’s said to have played a key role in the emergence of Fujairah as an independent emirate. Built in 1446 AD, Al-Badiyah Mosque, the oldest in the UAE, also exhibits the true craftsmanship of the locals of the time with its pointed domes supported by an internal pillar, prayer hall adorned with arches and ventilators and a mihrab – prayer spot that points to the Mecca. There’s a graveyard near the mosque that houses a large tomb dating to the Iron Age. You will also find other artefacts such as pieces of broken pots and arrowheads from 1000 BC. Fujairah has many hot, cold and mineral springs. Located just outside Fujairah city is Ain Al-Madhab mineral spa, which produces warm sulphuric water. Declared a biosphere reserve by UNESCO, Wadi Al Wurayah is a natural attraction, offering outdoor activities such as hiking. The Wadi Al Wurayah waterfalls add to the area’s beauty.

Highlight: Visit Hegra, the Kingdom’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to more than 110 tombs carved from giant rock formations. Only three out of these tombs, however, are accessible to the public.

Highlight: For a beachy adventure, head to Snoopy Island, which gets its name from the rocks that look like the cartoon character Snoopy. The area is surrounded by beautiful reefs teeming with rich marine life, ideal for snorkelling and diving.

Top Tip: If you’re famished after all that exploring, Al Jadidah has restaurants, food trucks, art galleries and shaded seating areas.

Top Tip: Remember there are seven emirates, Dubai and Abu Dhabi are just two of them.

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• COVER STORY - CLOSE TO HOME

OMAN JORDAN Jordan offers both old-town heritage experiences and modern attractions such as a vibrant nightlife. However, you will find the latter mostly in Amman, the capital city – Queen Alia International Airport, Jordan’s main airport, is about 30km from Amman. That being said, this largest city of Jordan also has historical significance. There are numerous archaeological sites that you can explore such as the Citadel, which includes the Temple of Hercules, the Umayyad Palace and the Byzantine Church. Nestled at the foot of the Citadel is a 6,000-seater Roman theatre, carved into the hill and still used for cultural events. A visit to the Jordan Archaeological Museum, The Folklore Museum and the Museum of Popular Traditions will offer a glimpse into the rich heritage of the city. Featuring colonnaded streets, a vaulted terrace and the ruins of two theatres, Umm Qays, which was historically known as Gadara, was a renowned cultural centre. Home to several classical poets and philosophers, it’s perched atop a hill overlooking the Jordan Valley and the Sea of Galilee – dine on the terrace and enjoy the breathtaking view. Ajloun offers numerous forest trails, which will appeal to the nature lover. Hit The Tourist Street in Madaba for handicrafts, mosaic and religious souvenirs.

Qatar Airways operate direct flights to Salalah, a land of striking landscapes, geological attractions and monsoon rains! Ayn Athum, Ayn Khor, Wadi Darbat and Ayn Gogub are popular waterfalls here and Ayn Sahalnoot, Ayn Razat, Ayn Jarziz and Ayn Hamran are popular springs that you can visit. Known for its striking landscapes, Salalah has valleys such as Wadi Darbat where you can enjoy a paddle boat ride on the natural canal. Kayaking is also available. This valley has two beautiful waterfalls and you can find Travertine Curtains here – pockmarked rocks on the cliff’s face. Mughsayl Beach has a photogenic landscape. In addition, the long stretch of blue water and white sands also has natural fountains. It’s the perfect location for birdwatching and enjoying a mesmerising sunset. Located right beside Mughsayl Beach is Marnie Cave – a spelunking attraction – or you can simply sit in the shade of the caves. A stone’s throw from the cave is the Mughsayl Blowholes – yet another geological attraction – from which jets of water explode into the air when the sea is slightly rough. If you’re the adventurous type, you’ll enjoy trekking the Tawi Attair sinkhole, the most popular in Dhofar. A unique experience to try is a car drive at Salalah Anti-Gravity Point – your car moves uphill at a speed of 40 to 60km/h but in neutral gear with zero acceleration.

Highlight: Explore Petra – a UNESCO World Heritage site. It’s appeal mainly comes from its spectacular setting deep inside a narrow desert gorge. Access to the city is through a 1.2km-long gorge called the Siq that leads directly to Al-Khazneh, which is believed to be the mausoleum of Nabataean king Aretas IV.

Highlight: Jabal Samhan on the eastern side of Salalah is one of the major mountain ranges in Dhofar, reaching 2,100 metres. It offers a breathtaking view of the ‘Sea of Clouds’ and you can capture the time lapse of the moving clouds from atop.

Top Tip: Stay away from animal abuse – explore Petra on foot instead of using the donkey- and camel-rides. This way, you also shed the holiday calories!

Top Tip: Unlike much of the region, the weather here is pleasant during the monsoons from June to August, making it a great summer escape.

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FINLAND BHUTAN Everyone has to fly via somewhere as there are only two airlines flying into Bhutan: Druk Air and Bhutan Airlines. But you can get there via India and Nepal and, let’s face it, who doesn’t want to visit the country with the world’s Only Ministry of Happiness. The flight into Paro, Bhutan’s main airport, is one of the most spectacular in the world coming in along the Himalayan range. But landing is subject to weather conditions, so, leave yourself plenty of time. You can also drive five hours from Bengal to Bhutan’s southern gateway Phuentsholing. Once you get there, you won’t find many other visitors, so, you’ll get certain bragging rights – many people have never heard of the place – but you’ll also need to be prepared to hand over plenty of cash. You’ll also not catch sight of Starbucks or McDonalds on the peaceful, calm streets and the environment and culture have been preserved. With a backdrop of mountains wherever you look, there is certainly plenty to do, from river rafting and kayaking to archery, multiple colourful festivals and the chance to get acquainted with some of the country’s wilder inhabitants on a safari – you might even be lucky enough to glimpse the elusive snow leopard! Highlight: Take a trek to the Tiger’s Nest Monastery at Taktsang. It’s a stiff hike but very well worth it. The monastery, a series of buildings on the side of a mountain, was originally built around the early 1500s on the site of a cave where Guru Rimpoche meditated in the seventh century. It was destroyed by fire in the late 1990s and later rebuilt in the style of the eighth century. Top Tip: Unlike in some other countries, taking a guided tour in Bhutan will really enhance your experience. 32

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There’s more to Finland than Father Christmas – and yes, we know, that’s Finnish Lapland. In fact, you can still visit Rovaniemi, The Official Home of Santa Clause, and cross the Arctic Circle in summer time. And this Nordic country has much to offer allround for the summer visitor. Known as the Land of the Midnight Sun; after many months of almost total darkness, north of the Arctic Circle, the sun does not set at all between May and August and, even further south, it is visible for almost 24 hours in June and July. Thus, as you can imagine, Finns make the most of these ‘White Nights’. Not surprisingly, a great deal of time is spent outdoors – weather during the summer is usually temperate and warm – and there is plenty to see and do. A great way to enjoy the long summer nights is to rent a cottage in the countryside near one of the almost 2,000 lakes (that’s one for every 26 people!). Take a midnight swim, go hiking or canoeing or even enjoy a round of golf in the wee small hours. And don’t miss the festivals – there are lots of them. From the massive, such as Weekend Festival – described as “one of the wildest electronic [EDM, house and techno] parties in northern Europe” – to things like Ilosaarirock, which is mostly volunteer organised and features national and international artists. And then there are the forests. Oh, the forests. They cover more than 75% of the land area and many are open to the public. Forest bathing anyone? Highlight: Don’t forget the capital, Helsinki. An amazing city on the southern peninsula, it has something for everyone from shopping to a major party and festival scene not to mention beaches. Top Tip: Drink tap water, everywhere, it’s safe, super clean and is said to taste better than the bottled varieties.

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• COVER STORY - MIDDLE DISTANCE

ITALY This might seem a rather obvious one but Italy is a land of so many contrasts that you really can find something to suit everyone. Milan, the gateway to the north, is a fashionista’s paradise. Here, budget allowing, you will find virtually all the huge brands. But, you can also head off the stiletto-beaten track to discover new designers and those striving for a more ethical fashion scene through the CNA (National Confederation of Artisanship). Or visit SNAP, one of the city’s biggest second-hand stores, which also collaborates with promising new designers, because we all love a bargain, right? Head to the lakes, such as Como and Garda for boating and people watching. Lake Como is particularly known for its popularity with international celebs and, while you might not exactly get to rub shoulders, you can certainly check out the magnificent villas they inhabit. Further south is Rome, the ‘Eternal City’, where you will find more culture than it’s possible to fit in one visit – from museums and galleries to history and music. Of course, no visit would be complete without a trip to Vatican City, regardless of your faith. Naples and Pompeii are close together and can be covered in a couple of days. In Naples eat pizza! At Pompeii, prepare for lots of walking and a certain feeling of awe at the sight of a whole ancient city destroyed by a volcanic eruption so swift that people were caught off guard going about their daily lives. And, if you’re looking for heat, go south where life is slower, hotter and more traditional. Highlight: The food. Seek out small eateries, watch where locals are dining. Go big on tomatoes, olives, olive oil and bread. Italy is known for its simple but superb cuisine, make the most of it. Top Tip: Do visit the Amalfi Coast. Don’t go in high summer! 34

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MONTENEGRO Once overlooked and still not the hottest spot on everyone’s lips, Montenegro is quickly gaining a reputation as the place to visit… before everyone else does! With rugged mountains, mediaeval villages and a strip of beaches along the Adriatic coastline, it’s often called the ‘hidden gem’ of Europe and it’s not hard to see why. There is much to see and do here. Tara Canyon is an amazing natural wonder and the world’s second deepest, after the Grand Canyon. For the brave, there is whitewater rafting (though the water’s chilly) and you cross the canyon on a zipline. One of the most popular places to visit is Kotor with its old town and amazing fjord-like bay. Thanks to its long-ago Venice-citystate rulers, the place is distinctly Venetian in style and is also one of the Adriatic coast’s best preserved medieaval fort towns. A trek to the high town walls, will provide a good day’s workout. Had to the Budva Riviera for the crystalline waters of the Adriatic sheltered by a glorious mountainous backdrop and make sure to visit Old Town Budva, a 2,500-year-old walled city, that, today, has a buzzing social scene. Also make a stop at Sveti Stefan, once famous as a Hollywood hangout and currently enjoying a stylish renaissance. For nature lovers, a trip to Durmitor National Park is a must. Home to Tara Canyon, the park boasts 18 natural glacial lakes and is home to a whole range of wildlife, from bears to wild boar. Highlight: Head for the, still unspoilt, Lustica Peninsula to visit the Blue Grotto which is named for its spectacularly blue water. It’s only accessible by boat and there are regular tours from April to October. Top Tip: Most local cuisine revolves around meat, so, if you’re veggie or vegan, do your research and plan ahead.

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AUSTRALIA Never mind the mainland, head to what Aussies call Tassie. The cooler months in Tasmania span from May to September, making it the perfect destination for those of us on the other side of the equator. The island state is densely forested – Tarkine, containing Savage River National Park, located in the island's far north west, is the largest temperate rainforest area in Australia covering about 3,800sq/km. Tasmania’s wilderness is best experienced on foot and if you’re someone who enjoys an adventure, hiking through the many breathtaking national parks makes a great winter activity. Try out world-famous walks such as Overland Track, traversing Cradle Mountain and Lake St Clair National Park; Three Capes Track across the Tasman Peninsula and the South Coast Track located in Southwest National Park. Some other nature-inspired adventures on the west coast include the Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park, Strahan village and the Wilderness Railway. The walks offer a complete experience in the heart of nature replete with staggering sea cliffs, majestic mountains, rainforests abundant in flora and fauna, beautiful beaches and bays and wonderful wildlife. While a part of the walk is an actual walk, you can even expect boat rides and fly cruises where a plane will take you up and hover allowing you a magnificent view of the ground. Highlight: Bruny Island is a popular holiday spot with beaches, walking trails and gastronomic adventures. There’s a thriving food and grape culture here and you can sample the choicest grape paired with cheese – some of the artisan varieties are known to be the finest in Australia – and oysters straight from the sea. Explore the island on a guided walk, tasting the local produce and enjoying luxurious stays. If you’re lucky, you will spot Australian fur seals, dolphins, migrating whales and sea birds during an eco-cruise or a kayaking adventure close to the rugged coast and in deep sea caves. Top Tip: Take jungle-strength bug spray and don’t be a feast for the Aussie Mozzies! 36

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JAPAN There’s no escaping the fact that Japan is an economic heavyweight. Its capital city, Tokyo, has so much going on, it’s hard to know where to start. And Mount Fuji is iconic. But we’d suggest stepping away from the well-known spots for something a little different. Also known as Ogasawara Islands, the Bonin Islands are an archipelago of over 30 subtropical and tropical islands about 1,000km directly south of Tokyo. Chichijima and Hahajima are the only two inhabited islands in the group. The archipelago is accessible by a 24-hour-long ferry journey from central Tokyo. Home to more than 190 endangered species, such as the Bonin flying fox, over 400 native plant species, and a crystal-clear ocean packed with marine life, the Bonin Islands are a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Sometimes referred to as the Galápagos of the Orient, the plants and animals here have evolved uniquely since these islands have never been connected to a continent. Explore the rich and rare flora and fauna here during a guided trek through the forests. You can also explore the rich marine treasures that lie beneath the surrounding waters, which are a natural habitat for dolphins and whales. There are dolphin and whale watching tours from Chichijima Island – you can spot sperm whales from May to November and listen for the songs of the whales through an underwater microphone. Scuba diving and kayaking are available for both beginners and experts. Highlight: Minamijima Island is the jewel in the crown of this archipelago. A striking rock arch over a turquoise blue lagoon serves as the gateway to this uninhabited island, where a maximum of 100 visitors are allowed to enter for no more than two hours at a time. This landscape is so unique and rare in the world that it is designated as a natural monument. Top Tip: Japan has some pretty strict social protocols, do your homework to avoid offence.

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• COVER STORY - FAR, FAR AWAY

PHILIPPINES MEXICO Certainly, we’ve all heard of Cancun, with its perfect sandy beaches and, occasionally, shady reputation. And Mexico City itself, one of the liveliest cities in the world, teeming with culture and a high-octane buzz. But, as always, there’s more to this Central American destination. If you’re fascinated by architecture, head to Puebla, which is peppered with ornate churches and cathedrals, magnificent houses, colonial buildings and the more modern museums, libraries, art galleries and government buildings. The state promotes 12 tourist routes, seven in the capital city of Puebla de Zaragoza – a UNESCO World Heritage Site – and five over the rest of the state. Details to watch out for include the use of Talavera ornamental tiles, as found in Casa de los Muñecos. Commonly spotted in Puebla city, the tilework renders facades beautifully colourful. Many churches and buildings exhibit folk baroque architecture and the Museo Internacional del Barroco is worth a visit. Other attractions include Museo Amparo, which is set within two colonial buildings and houses the finest collections of Mexican art, and Fuertes de Loreto y Guadalupe – the forts of Loreto and Guadalupe – which were originally built as chapels in the 16th century but fortified in the 1800s to protect the city during its independence struggle. The Battle of Puebla which took place here on May 5 1862 is celebrated every year as the Cinco de Mayo holiday. Tour the beautiful colonial city of Cholula, home to the Great Pyramid of Cholula – an archaeological site. Also take a volcano tour. Hike the mountains and take in the spectacular natural scenery of Iztaccíhuatl and Popocatépetl.

If you’re looking for respite from the summer heat, head to the Cordillera region in Luzon Island in the Philippines for culture, adventure and mummies! Sparsely populated, it is the perfect getaway. Known among the Filipino community as the Shimla – an Indian hill station – of the Philippines, the region is landlocked and primarily mountainous with cool temperatures. Hailed as the Summer Capital of the Philippines, Baguio City in Benguet province of the Cordillera Region rarely experiences temperatures higher than 26 degrees Celsius even during the warmest season of the year. Burnham Park, Wright Park and Baguio Cathedral are some sightseeing spots. You can even visit a local strawberry farm at La Trinidad, capital of Benguet, and pick your own strawberries – the strawberry taho (hot silken tofu with sweet syrup and sago pearls) is a must-try. Benguet is home to natural and scenic landscapes. Mount Pulag, the highest mountain peak in Luzon, almost 3,000 metres above sea level, offers breath-taking views and is home to rich highland flora and fauna. Mines View Park offers striking vistas of Benguet’s mountain ranges. Cordillera Region is home to many ethnic tribes commonly referred to as the Igorot. You can learn about the indigenous culture and people at the Bontoc Museum. Dap-ay or Ato is a historic site steeped in the tribal culture. Visit to learn crafts such as basket and fabric weaving and buy souvenirs to take home. A spelunking adventure awaits at Sumaguing Cave in the Sagada municipality of Mountain Province – beautiful rock formations and natural pools make the physically daunting descent underground worth it. Additionally, you could scale the 2,000-year-old Banaue Rice Terraces – a UNESCO World Heritage Site – in Ifugao province, where the famous Tinawon rice grows.

Highlight: While you’re there, don’t forget to try the traditional mole sauce – mole poblano, one of the most popular, is named after Puebla city.

Highlight: Mountain Province is popular for its hanging coffins, where the mummified remains of the local ancestors are found!

Top Tip: Even though you will be outside of Mexico City, stay alert and keep a close eye on your valuables and cash. Don’t wear obviously expensive jewellery.

Top Tip: You will need to provide up-to-date proof of Covid-19 vaccination to enter the country. Make sure you check restrictions before you go.

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• COVER STORY - FAR, FAR AWAY

NEW ZEALAND New Zealand is an island nation recognised for having some of the world’s most spectacular scenery. The second largest island in the Hauraki Gulf of New Zealand and just 30 kilometres from Auckland, Waiheke Island has stunning beaches with luxurious waterfront lodges that will set the mood for your summer sojourn. The popular beaches include Oneroa Beach, Palm Beach – both have ‘Little’ secluded options – Shelly Beach, Enclosure Bay – it has the best rock pools to explore at low tide and a great lagoon for snorkelling – Sandy Bay, Onetangi Beach – a Māori name meaning ‘weeping sands’ – and Man O’ War Bay close to Man O’ War Tasting Room. Most beaches have BBQs and picnic tables and you can enjoy a day sunbathing, swimming and body surfing in ideal conditions. Whakanehwa is a woodsy recreation area by a beach on Rocky Bay, with walking trails, campsites and picnic spots. Set in a protected bird sanctuary, it’s a great place for birdwatchers; you can spot the fantail and New Zealand dotterel in the wetlands and along the coast, while kayakers can explore nearby inlets and bays. Waiheke is home to picturesque vineyards. You can experience premium grape tours – perfect to sip, sample and savour New Zealand’s finest vintages. The island also has olive groves that produce high-quality olive oil. Waiheke Island has a rich arts and culture scene too. There is a strong group of indigenous local artists. You can visit the many art galleries that are run across the island by private individuals, as well as the community art gallery that hosts regular exhibitions, The Gallery shop sells high-quality New Zealand ceramics, glass, jewellery and art forms.

LAOS Explore the mystical land of Laos in Southeast Asia, a popular tourist destination but still untouched by commercialism. Buddhism being the main religion, you can find Buddhist influences in the culture and local lifestyle here. Even the architecture is inspired by Buddhist tradition. Patouxay, in the capital city of Vientiane, is a prominent landmark. Built in traditional Lao style, it incorporates motifs such as Kinnaly, a mythical bird woman. It is also inspired by Paris’ Arc de Triomphe – Laos was once a French colony – and visitors can enjoy a striking view of the city from the top of this monument. In addition to temples and religious sites, you can become one with nature here. Laos is home to some enthralling caves such as Konglor cave, which has a river flowing through it and you can ride a boat across. You can find many beautiful waterfalls too. Ethnically diverse with many indigenous groups, the flavours of Lao culture are infused in its food. Vibrant and earthy, the locals use a range of aromatics while cooking, from galangal and ginger to a variety of fresh herbs such as lemongrass, dill and cilantro. Sticky rice, meat salad, fish steamed in banana leaves, meat stew, sausages and raw papaya salad are some staples.

Highlight: The island’s community-run cinema features musicians, performances and local productions every so often.

Highlight: Visit this ancient city preserved in time. Champasak Province is home to Wat Phou, an ancient temple that was built during the Khmer Empire. Overlooking the mighty Mekong River, the temple complex along with the ancient city of Shestrapura and numerous other archaeological sites along the river bank are a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Top Tip: Getting to Waiheke Island is easy, with a quick 40-minute ferry ride from downtown Auckland. Make sure to check the schedules.

Top Tip: Beat the summer heat by slurping your way through Khao Poun, a cold rice vermicelli soup with raw chopped vegetables, coconut milk sauce, meat and chillis.

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LEVELLING UP The new CT5 enters the midsized luxury sedan segment with intent. 42

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CITY RIDES •

s the saying goes: “Variety is the spice of life.” The FACT magazine team couldn’t agree more and we were hugely grateful to be handed the keys to the new Cadillac CT5, compliments of the outstanding team at Cadillac Qatar. Despite test driving vehicles for many years, this was to be our first Cadillac experience and we were more than curious to see what this US-based creation has to offer in terms of looks, comfort and performance. Exterior Design The first thing we noticed about the CT5 is how good-looking it is. Replacing its predecessor, the CTS, this latest model has been designed to contend with European luxury sport sedans, a challenge the designers were clearly ready to take on. Configured with sporty intent, the CT5 with its athletic lines and Wave Metallic Blue paintwork certainly looks the part. Our CT5 featured the luxury trim, and despite this being the baseline model, it comes equipped with many quality features, including signature Cadillac vertical LED headlights, a capless fuelling system and alloy painted wheels. The body has undoubtably been shaped with aerodynamics in mind. At the front end, vertical ducts channel air through the fascia and around the tires, optimising aerodynamic flow and

decreasing vehicle drag. Active aero grille shutters, located under the iconic Cadillac grille, automatically open and close to control air flow. These assist in drag reduction, emission reduction and fuel efficiency. At the flanks, the muscular stance of the vehicle is underscored by bold lines and 18-inch wheels displaying a Bright Silver finish. The inclined, fast-back figure of the CT5 with its solid, aerodynamic decklid form, decreases rear lift and augments tire traction at greater speeds. We found that the body-coloured rocker mouldings, door handles and side mirrors highlighted the exclusive nature of this shapely sedan. The well-balanced proportions of the CT5 continue at the back end, with LED tail lamps complete with red outer lenses adding to the modern look of the exterior. Under the body-coloured rear bumper sits a dual-trapezoid exhaust, separated by a bodycoloured rear valance. All-in-all, the exterior of this new Cadillac demands attention and, we have to say, it definitely holds its own against its European competitors in this area. Interior Design: Switching our focus to the interior, we eased ourselves into the supportive and comfortable front seats. Handcrafted using premium materials, the inside of the CT5 has been painstakingly fact magazine

• CITY RIDES designed, with attention being given to every little detail. Task orientated ambient lighting adds a further touch of refinement to an already stylish layout, whilst dual-zone climate control ensures the comfort of all occupants. The CT5 is one of the smaller cars in the midsized luxury sedan segment, however, we found the cabin, and indeed the rest of the vehicle, to be reasonably spacious, with sufficient leg, head, and shoulder room in both front and rear seating. Installing a child seat would be a relatively simple task, thanks to easily accessible anchors. This contributes toward the practical and everyday nature of this vehicle. As far as internal storage goes, there are reasonably-sized storage bins and large cup holders, along with a spacious cubby hole. The vertical wireless charger also frees up more space thanks to its novel design. The luggage compartment offers almost 337 litres of space, big enough to store five carry-on suitcases. This area is greatly increased when the 60/40 split rear seats are folded flat.

top speed of 250km/h. It didn’t take long for us to appreciate the sound-optimised cabin as we made our way along the busy streets of Doha. Active Noise Cancellation technology eliminates undesirable disturbance, ensuring a quiet journey for all occupants. The ride quality is further enhanced by the smooth handling, accurate steering and a well-tuned suspension system.

Technology The CT5 features the latest CUE infotainment system, displayed on a high-quality, 10-inch touchscreen, located in the centre of the fine-looking dashboard. We were surprised by how much we appreciated the physical controls that had replaced the touch sensitive ones of the previous generation. This well organised and easy-to-operate system can be controlled via a rotary wheel located behind the gearshift or via interaction with the touchscreen. A dual-mic, cloud-based, voice recognition system has also been included. This setup is compatible with both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. We found the GPS to be of a very high standard and were informed that a premium head-up display can also be installed on request.

Our Verdict Cadillac have produced a real contender in the midsized luxury segment, one that will have its European competitors sitting up and taking notice. ✤

Safety and Assistance One of the most important and impressive features of the CT5 is that it has been awarded a five-star crash-test rating by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. This means that you are about as safe as you can be inside a car when you are in the CT5. Cadillac have also equipped the vehicle with a vast array of additional safety and performance features, including a blindspot monitoring system that causes your seat to vibrate whenever a vehicle enters those hard to see spaces around your car.

Power & Performance As with every vehicle we inspect, getting out onto the roads was our favourite part of the experience. The CT5 is equipped with the standard 2.0-litre Twin Scroll Turbo, four-cylinder, petrol engine. It produces 237hp at 5,000rpm, and 258lb-ft of torque at 1,5004,000rpm. Combined with a 10-speed automatic transmission, this rear-wheel-drive can accelerate from 0-100km/h in a respectable 6.9 seconds and produce an electronically capped

GO: CALL CADILLAC QATAR ON 4455 8000 FOR MORE INFORMATION AND TO BOOK A TEST DRIVE OF YOUR OWN. 44

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CITY RIDES •

“

Cadillac have produced a real contender in the midsized luxury segment, one that will have its European competitors sitting up and taking notice.”

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• MOTORING NEWS

MERCEDES’ MAGNIFICENT TRIBUTE Mercedes-Benz paid homage to trusted partner, collaborator and visionary designer, Virgil Abloh, with the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class.

The late Virgil Abloh’s cooperation with Mercedes–Maybach has culminated in the launch of a limited-edition bespoke S-Class and capsule collection, inspired by Project Maybach. Designed in partnership with Mercedes-Benz Group AG Chief Design Officer, Gorden Wagener, in 2021, the vehicle was finalised before Virgil’s untimely passing in November and is available in a strictly limited run of 150 units. The Mercedes-Maybach S-Class S680’s exterior features the unique two-tone colour combination created for Project Maybach. While the upper part of the vehicle is a glossy obsidian black, the lower part, side flanks and special forged rims are painted in a sand hue. This high level of craftsmanship continues into the vehicle's interior with an identical two-tone colour scheme. The four-seat configuration, steering wheel, doors, lower dashboard and ceiling are lined in black and sand-coloured nappa leather, complete with sand-coloured décor trims and strips. The high pile floormats are black with a sand leather border and embroidered Mercedes-Maybach logo. To enhance its monolithic appearance, the window frames are painted, and a special Mercedes-Maybach and Virgil Abloh logo is inscribed on the Piano Black middle of the centre-console, rear cushions, head restraints and door sill panel – the devil is in the details! Unique to the limited-edition S-Class is a bespoke user interface, which presents the driver with an even more luxurious variation of the Maybach MBUX suite. Hand-picked visual elements are used to enrich the digital content. Customers will be given a 46

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special custom-made wooden box covered in sand-coloured nappa leather emblazoned with the Mercedes-Maybach and Virgil Abloh logo. The gift box contains a 1/18 scale replica of the limited-edition car, the two car keys and a carabiner hook. In addition, a special car cover featuring the Mercedes-Maybach and Virgil Abloh logo will be gifted to customers. The launch coincided with the release of a capsule collection designed by Virgil Abloh and in collaboration with Off-White. Developed in connection to the Project Maybach electric show car and exclusively available on Off-White, Farfetch and Maybach Icons of Luxury online stores, as well as Off-White stores in select markets. It comprises of sand-coloured vintage washed cotton T-shirts and half-brushed cotton fleece crewnecks and hoodies, as well as canvas baseball caps and racing gloves crafted in canvas, neoprene and suede, coated with a black spray effect and embroidered. The limited-edition S-Class is Abloh’s third cooperation project with Mercedes-Benz, and the second with Mercedes–Maybach. In December 2021, Mercedes-Benz opened the doors of the Rubell Museum in Miami during Miami Art Week to showcase Project Maybach: a show car that exemplified the possibilities of future electric design. Mercedes-Maybach will launch its first fullyelectric model for retail in 2023. ✤ GO: VISIT WWW.MERCEDES-BENZ.COM FOR MORE INFORMATION.

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• MOTORING NEWS

THE ULTIMATE PERFORMER THE ALL-NEW GOLF R, THE ‘MOST POWERFUL’ GOLF R YET, HAS ARRIVED IN THE MIDDLE EAST. The latest Golf R is not only an elite member of the model series but also the star of the R-brand. The first Golf to be launched with a new all-wheel drive system: 4MOTION with R-Performance Torque Vectoring and selective wheel torque control on the rear axle, it significantly increases the agility of the vehicle, particularly when cornering. Moreover, its ride height is 20mm lower than the standard Golf. Distinctive exterior features include matt chrome mirrors and R logo floor projection when the car door is opened and closed. Three colour options include Lapiz Blue Metallic, Pure White or Deep Black Pearl Effect. The blue brake calipers give the optional 19-inch alloy wheels a distinctive touch. The wheel options include: 19-inch Adelaide alloys, 18-inch Jerez alloys or 19-inch Estoril alloys which come in black with a burnished finish or complete black. Inside the new Golf R, updates include the customised and enhanced premium sports seats, a new specially designed ergonomic DSG, and an R button that allows quick access to different driving modes. Further, you can enjoy the latest

technology, including a 10-inch infotainment system and digital cockpit, which has been updated for the new model. The optional R Performance Package includes a larger, prominent rear spoiler, 19-inch Estoril wheels and two additional driving profiles. Additionally, you can have the adaptive chassis control as an optional feature. The new Golf R also offers an optional Akrapovic titanium exhaust system for the first time in the Middle East. ✤ GO: VISIT WWW.VOLKSWAGEN-ME.COM FOR MORE INFORMATION.

AN ENDURING ICON

THE FORD MUSTANG HAS CAPTURED THE WORLD’S BEST-SELLING SPORTS COUPE TITLE FOR THE SEVENTH CONSECUTIVE YEAR. For the seventh year in a row, Ford Mustang – which has just marked its 58th birthday – is the world’s best-selling sports coupe, according to Ford analysis of registration data from S&P Global Mobility. The Mustang retains its sales crown for 2021 led by the pinnacle of 5.0-litre V8 performance, Mustang Mach 1, and the track-ready Mustang Shelby GT500, the most powerful street-legal Ford in history and the most advanced Mustang ever for street, track or drag strip use. Customer retail orders nearly doubled in 2021 compared to the previous year. “When enthusiasts around the world get into a Mustang, they unlock that feeling of freedom and experience the open road,” said Kumar Galhotra, president, Ford Blue. “That feeling, along with iconic design, awesome powertrains and a passionate global community all contribute to making Mustang a sales leader for the seventh year in a row.” Ford looks to continue this momentum with five new special editions in the lineup, including Mustang Ice White (also available on Mustang Mach-E), Shelby GT500 Heritage Edition, GT California Special, Coastal Limited and Stealth. From Mustang EcoBoost to Shelby GT500, there is a special edition at every performance level for muscle car enthusiasts. And the Mustang gains eight new colour options for 2022, including Ford 48

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Performance-exclusive Code Orange on the Shelby GT500 and Cyber Orange Metallic Tri-Coat. ✤ GO: VISIT ME.FORD.COM FOR FURTHER INFORMATION.

28 March - 27 June

@VapianoQatar

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• PLUGGED IN

PLAY YOUR CARDS RIGHT Never again be worried about losing your wallet with Chipolo’s new CARD Spot.

hipolo’s brand-new CARD Spot easily fits into your wallet without adding any extra bulk and helps you find it through the Apple Find My network. The device is as thin as it gets, with a width of just 2.4mm. If you think your missing wallet is nearby, you can choose to play a sound through the app and the device will play a loud sound, up to 105 dB, back. Additionally, you can activate Lost Mode on the app to receive a notification when it’s found and it will even help when you accidentally leave it behind somewhere by giving you the last known location of the card. You can activate this with the Notify When Left Behind mode and you can exclude times when you have left it at home. If your wallet goes missing, the hundreds of Apple devices that are part of the Find My network will help you locate it on a map. Apple Find My network is made up of hundreds of millions of Apple devices that use secure Bluetooth technology to detect items nearby and report their approximate location back to their owner. The entire process is end-to-end encrypted and anonymous as the Apple Find My network uses advanced encryption to ensure that no one else, not even Apple or Chipolo, can view the location of your Chipolo CARD Spot. And if someone tries to track you with a Chipolo CARD Spot, the built-in anti-stalking features will warn you of their attempt.

The device is water-resistant with a rating of IPX5 and lasts up to two years, at which point you can send it back to Chipolo to recycle for a 50% discount on a new device. ✤ GO: VISIT HTTPS://CHIPOLO.NET/EN/PAGES/CHIPOLO-CARDSPOT/ FOR MORE INFORMATION.

DOWN TO BUSINESS Work better and faster with Logitech’s new Signature M650 mouse designed to improve productivity and performance.

ogitech has launched its new Signature M650 for Business to improve productivity, comfort and overall employee experience. The mouse is an upgrade from the expected. Its technology, design, and functionality make up a workforce tool that everyone deserves. Its superior features include SmartWheel switches from line-by-line precision or super-fast scrolling with just a flick of the wheel, not to mention its leading enterprise operating systems and business apps across desktops, laptops, and tablets. The Logi Options+ app allows customisation for the Signature M650 for Business to help streamline repetitive tasks and increase output efficiency to improve overall business performance. The device is perfect for laptop users who spend many hours at a desk. Its design features include two sizes for large and small hands as well as a contoured shape with rubber side rails and a soft thumb area for extra comfort. The mouse has five buttons, two for left and right clicks, two for back and forward and one middle click. The device also includes innovative Silent Touch Technology which makes clicking noises 90% less distracting compared to Logitech’s M185. Its battery life extends up to 24 months depending on user and computing conditions with the included AA battery. ✤ 50

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GO: VISIT HTTPS://WWW.LOGITECH.COM/EN-US/PRODUCTS/ MICE/M650-SIGNATURE-FOR-BUSINESS.HTML FOR MORE INFORMATION.

EVERY TUESDAY 19:00-23:00HRS PER PERSON

INCL 3 BEVERAGES & A SHARING PLATTER

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HOOKAH MENU

themezzehouse.doha

For more information please call 4009 5515

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• PLUGGED IN

JUST PURRFECT! Tired of cleaning after your furry friend? Try this ingenious device for a worry and mess-free experience.

marty Pear’s new self-cleaning Leo’s Loo Too device boasts the latest technology for efficient cat litter disposal. Flaunting a motto of ‘A Giant Step Forward for Catkind’, the device includes the newest of features for the ultimate worry-free and mess-free experience. Offering cat owners the relief of the most dreadful part of having a cat, the device offers the latest technological version of the cat litter box. The self-cleaning gadget includes Google and Alexa voice controls and a mobile Smart Home connected app that allow you to remotely monitor and control your Loo from anywhere in the world. You can access and adjust settings and view activity reports anywhere you have an Internet connection. The triple-layer safety protection for the cat includes a state-ofthe-art Radar system that forms a protective wall, four weight sensors that detect when the kitty is inside the drum, and an aerospace-grade Anti-Pinch Sensor at the top of the waste drawer to keep the kitty safe. The device also has UV light to kill off those pesky bacteria. After your cat exits the Loo, the machine projects UV rays into the waste drawer to thoroughly sterilize. The UV rays are 99.9% effective at eliminating bacteria, parasites, and viruses. It also has a large waste drawer with a lid and a smoother sliding system and eliminates odour. The sleek design ensures that it blends well with your home and has a whisper-quiet motor

with noise levels that are lower than the most common home appliances. The device comes in a range of colours including grey, green, pink and blue. ✤ GO: VISIT HTTPS://WWW.SMARTYPEAR.COM/PRODUCT/ LEOS-LOO-TOO/ FOR MORE INFORMATION.

LIGHTS, CAMERA, ACTION! Moment’s new Filmmaker Cage provides the ultimate accessory for aspiring filmmakers.

ount your phone faster than ever with the most versatile video cage for mobiles, Moment’s Mobile Filmmaker Cage, the ultimate filmmaker accessory and the first with MagSafe, a proprietary magnetically attached wireless power transfer and accessory-attachment. With multiple cold shoe mounts, ¼”-20, and 3/8”-16 attachment points, you can mount any of your favourite mics, lights, handles or other filmmaking tools to this amazing device. The innovative and unique gadget is made from precisionmachined aluminium and has built-in cable management slots to keep things organised. The top and side handles make it easy to grip and pack in a bag or carry around. The device weighs about 270g and has dimensions of 243x120x40mm, and the padded contact points ensure that your phone will be safe from any damage during your filmmaking expedition. The cage works with both iPhone 12 and 13 or with cases for MagSafe and has built-in cable routing. The proprietary (M) Force tripod is custom-made for this product, with magnets and grip pad maintaining a super-strong connection. The mount is easily swappable for a traditional phone clamp if you want extra security. And the two cold shoe mounts have options to attach 52

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mics or lights to amplify your filming experience. Meet your new dream rig for mobile filmmaking, endlessly customisable and ready for shooting on the go. ✤ GO: VISIT HTTPS://WWW.SHOPMOMENT.COM/PRODUCTS/ MOMENT-MOBILE-FILMMAKER-CAGE-FOR-MAGSAFE/ FOR MORE INFORMATION.

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• PLUGGED IN

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

Done

Stellarium Mobile Star Map

Your very own and personal habit tracker. Done helps users create healthy routines and break bad ones by helping you set goals, track your progress and motivate yourself with streaks and chains. Set your daily, monthly, weekly and yearly goals. The app will track streaks for each of them, developing a chain. A circle means the goal has been completed, an X marks a missed goal on the calendar. You can view your longest streak and the number of goals you’ve accomplished. View your overall performance on the graph, where you can see where you’re progressing and where you’re lacking and what you need to work on. You can also export the data to a CSV file to analyse outside the app, and you can apply either Sunday or Monday as the start of your week.

This one’s for the astronomy buffs out there. Stellarium is a mobile 3D sky map or a free open-source planetarium. Point your phone at the sky to identify stars, constellations, planets, comets and satellites in real time. You can zoom in on moons, galaxies and constellations, and switch to Night Vision mode for the best outdoor stargazing experience. Click on constellations and other objects to learn more about each one, including the coordinates, the hour angles and a short description or history.

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• 5 OVER 5

In Conversation with… Issam Gebrael General Manager, Antika, Doha, on the highlights of his hospitality career.

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5 OVER 5 •

What first attracted you to the hospitality business and what significant changes have you seen over the last few years? My initial attraction to the hospitality business was simply the people. In this occupation, you’re regularly exposed to a wide range of nationalities whether it be customers or colleagues, so, the environment is very stimulating for making connections and socialising. In the GCC especially, you have the opportunity to meet all kinds of people with different backgrounds and ideologies, all uniting in one place for the same purpose. Each day is filled with its own challenges and requests and this keeps your job alive and interesting. Hospitality, for me, is a lifestyle and not just a job I attend to, and that’s mainly why it’s enjoyable and continuously pleasing. The most significant change I’ve encountered in recent years is undoubtedly the downfall of the hospitality business due to the pandemic. However, as a learning experience, I’ve truly understood the impact small elements can make in keeping the hospitality industry afloat in unforeseeable circumstances like this. When did you take over the GM role at Antika, Doha, and how does it differ from your previous position with 7 Management? I moved to Qatar in December 2020 with the intention of opening the third branch in the region and taking on the role of General Manager, after immense success in Lebanon and Dubai. Previously, I worked as a Beverage Manager for 7 Management, one of the leading F&B companies in the market and, after an outstanding journey, I felt it was time to utilise my expertise and divert it to something new. Both roles are different yet alike in many ways and have their own scope of work. I do credit my previous position in allowing me to fully fathom the business and be able to apply my knowledge successfully in the current position, in things such as menu creation, cost control, and bar management. I believe the success of a general manager relies heavily on their ability to

lead and connect all departments together for a better outcome, from the very back of the office to front of house. What makes Antika different. How does it stand out from an impressive dining/nightlife offering in Doha? Antika stands out as a whole package, in the sense that it’s not merely a restaurant or a club but rather an exciting hybrid of both. Guests can come and experience exceptional dining from the Levantine menu, which is truly designed to cater to all palates, along with sensational live entertainment. The indoor and outdoor lounges also both offer different experiences, with the indoor one catering to those who love Arabic-focused music and the outdoor for those who want to relax, enjoy panoramic views of The Pearl and listen to upbeat lounge music with Oriental touches. What are the biggest joys and the greatest challenges of your job? As a GM, your job is predominantly about people and therefore, you need to be a people person, to me, my biggest fulfilment is simply seeing our guests happy and satisfied with the standard of services we are providing. To see some guests become regulars and newcomers enthusiastic about returning, gives us great pride and encouragement. We often see some regulars coming multiple times a week to enjoy the different experiences we create at Antika, both indoor and outdoor, so, in the fullness of time, the place has become a home for our guests and for myself and the incredible team at Antika. Do you have a hobby or secret talent that you like to pursue when you’re not working? Hobbies give us immense pleasure; they make our lives happy and more interesting. As people say, all work and no play can make our life dull. There should be a combination of work, sport and reading to make my life happier. ✤ fact magazine

BRINGING THE BEACH TO THE KITCHEN We chatted with celeb Chef Dani Garcia who was on a flying visit to the city for the launch of his new restaurant Lobito de Mar in Qatar. 58

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CHEF IN FOCUS •

When did the first Lobito de Mar open? And, how did you initially come up with the concept? The first Lobito de Mar opened five years ago in my hometown, Marbella. Our group headquarters are also in Marbella and it’s where we opened our very first restaurant - Dani Garcia - which now has three Michelin stars. We open every one of our restaurant brands in Marbella first, then Madrid, then elsewhere. I was born in Marbella, the entrance to the Mediterranean. Forty years ago, it was a little fishing town and when I was very young I would go to the market every Saturday with my father. We went early morning to buy fish to cook at home. Sometimes my father would cook paella or my mother would prepare fried fish. It’s in our blood. Lobito de Mar is a brand that truly represents Spanish food. It serves my mother’s and grandmother’s recipes and showcases the food they used to cook for me when I was young. This is how the concept of Lobito de Mar was born. Spanish food outside of Spain is often limited. Many people think it’s only tapas, but this is only a small part of Spanish cuisine. For example, in the south of Spain, we have some of the best tuna in the world, people outside of Spain might not know this. I want to change this, through giving people the chance to experience a real Spanish restaurant. It’s a challenge for me and my team to do this and also a responsibility actually.

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• CHEF IN FOCUS Lobito de Mar has previously been described as a beach bar without a beach, what does this mean? How is it possible to recreate a beach atmosphere? When I created the first Lobito de Mar in Marbella, it was impossible for us to get a location on the beach. I wanted to create a beach and seafood ‘chiringuito’ (beach bar). We didn’t have the beach, but we had a fantastic space, so why not create the chiringuito atmosphere ourselves? In Doha, it’s the same concept – we’re not on the beach, but we have sea, an incredible view, fantastic seafood, good music, lights and excellent service. We’ve created our own chiringuito here. How will you deal with ingredient availability here, in line with what you have in Spain? We’ll bring our own products from Andalucía used for our brands in Spain, here to Qatar. This includes our tuna, olive oil, and many other specific ingredients. Nowadays, it’s very easy to transport our products to our restaurants globally. We live in a connected world and can use real Spanish ingredients. Of course, we’ll also use local ingredients in our recipes, because there are a lot of fantastic ingredients here too. Have you created a one-off menu for Qatar? Please tell us about it. There are a lot of local products here that we respect greatly and have included on our menu in Qatar. For example, my mother used to prepare a very special dish with the fish ‘Al Limón’, but here in Qatar we’ll make the same dish with local hamour.

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Lobito de Mar in Spain is renowned for its cellar, will your cellar in Doha be on a similar level? Cocktails and mocktails are very important for us. And of course, for Spanish people, grape is crucial. For all of our restaurants in Madrid and Marbella, whether fine-dining or casual, we make sure we have an incredible grape list. Lobito de Mar in Doha will be no exception. This is the second outlet you’ve chosen to bring to Qatar, what makes Doha so special for you? This year, 2022, is important for us because we’re opening restaurants in Miami, Paris, Amsterdam and London. But Doha will always have a special place in our heart because it’s where we opened our first international restaurant – BiBo Doha. We’re proud of that – it’s the first time we showcased our concept to the rest of the world. We feel comfortable here and have a good relationship with our partners Al Fardan. We love Qatar. What can your fans in Qatar look forward to seeing from you in the future? Doha and Marbella have a lot of synergy, and I’d love to continue opening restaurants here. I’m keen to open our steakhouse brand Leña. People love meat in Qatar, so why not? There is huge potential for Leña, and I hope people here will enjoy it. Finally, you launched Lobito de Mar just before Ramadan, did the restaurant adapt for the Holy Month? We were open in Ramadan, serving our traditional Spanish food throughout the whole month. There was à la carte, Spanish iftar and our paella proved to be very popular. ✤

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• CULINARY SPOTLIGHT

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AFTERNOON DELIGHT Kay Woodward headed to Café Murano to take in the glorious art coupled with an exceptional High Tea.

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• CULINARY SPOTLIGHT

hen it comes to artistic entrances, the lobby of Marsa Malaz Kempinski, the PearlDoha absolutely nails it. The hotel’s high ceilings soar majestically, the lofty spaces showcasing a jaw-dropping array of Arabian art. The Tree of Life is a stunning glass chandelier, surrounded by fluttering hummingbirds, handmade from Murano glass in Venice. There are 50 more chandeliers to check out if you have the time, but it’s high tea o’clock and we can’t wait. Our destination is the aptly named Café Murano. There’s more fabulous art inside, from Silver Samurai – a crystal and glass sculpture created by artist Jiri Suhajek in 1999 – to the pearly mosaics that glisten all around. Mercy – our simply lovely host – welcomes us and we venture across possibly the plushest carpet in Doha to our table with a view. Outside, pools sparkle, palm trees sway and the turquoise waters of the Arabian Gulf ripple. All this and high tea too? Excellent. Café Murano’s High Tea includes unlimited tea and coffee, so we dive straight in, kicking off with the White Peony Loose Tea and Assam Breakfast Loose Tea. These arrive in glass tea cafetières, accompanied by a dinky three-minute timer. Once the grains have tumbled to the bottom, the tea leaves are perfectly brewed. Ahh. And also ooh! Because the afternoon-tea stand has arrived! Three tiers of colourful scrumptiousness float before us – a sweetand-savoury tower of wonder. This is where you’d probably like to hear about the cakes, but hang on, there’s etiquette to follow and the sandwiches are mostly definitely first. These sandwiches are so neat, they look as if they’ve been prepared with a ruler and a set square. The bread is unfussy

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CULINARY SPOTLIGHT •

– white and brown – and obviously, crust-free. The fillings are divine. I’ll apologise now for the long list, but there is simply nothing I can bear to leave out. The Egg Sandwich is egg mayonnaise with a hint of truffle. The Chicken Curry Sandwich bears more than a passing resemblance to Coronation Chicken and has just the right amount of spice. The Brie Cheese with Strawberry Jam is a subtle blend of savoury and sweet. The Salmon With Cream Cheese Sandwich is generous and delicious, with a caper and a tiny sprig of dill perched on top. But the Labneh with Cucumber Sandwich outdoes them all with pure sandwich glamour; as well as cucumber within, it’s cloaked with a thinly sliced layer of cucumber. It’s the prettiest sandwich I’ve ever seen. We wish we could eat them all again. And guess what? We can! The sandwiches are as refillable as the tea and coffee. This is seriously the first time I’ve ever had an afternoon tea with unlimited sandwiches. Seconds it is, then! Now for the sweet stuff. The Chocolate Raspberry is a classic flavour combination, with chocolate mousse and chocolate inside a glistening raspberry coating. The Coconut Profiterole is wonderfully reimagined and topped with blueberry icing. The Pistachio Passionfruit Finger is tangy and zingy – pistachio-flavoured jaconde sponge is layered with mango jelly. The macaron is to die for: Italian meringue and lemon curd with a hint of vanilla, within a perfect ring of orange. It’s a mouthful of cloudiness.

Dotted with caramelised almond and dusted with silver, the Chocolate Bonbon is the perfect full stop. Oh no it isn’t! The best part of any afternoon tea has to be the scone – there’s both fruit and plain – with jam and clotted cream. Yum, just yum. Café Murano is open from 7am to 11pm. But go between 2pm and 6pm for High Tea that’s as exquisite as the art that surrounds it and you won’t need to eat ANYTHING else all day. ✤

GO: CALL 4035 5011 FOR FURTHER INFORMATION OR TO MAKE A RESERVATION.

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• DINING DELIGHT

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DINING DELIGHT •

MEAT ME AT BENTLEY’S! When Team Fact's inner carnivore called — Bentley’s Grill answered.

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• DINING DELIGHT

oha is no stranger to contemporary steakhouses — in fact, we’re often overwhelmed by the sheer number of choices now. But whenever we’re in such a situation, it’s always best to choose the one that has been proving its prowess for years and years. A good steakhouse means good food, good company and a calm but friendly atmosphere, and we find it all at Bentley’s Grill at Radisson Blu Hotel Doha, every time. Quality cuts from around the world with an exceptional style of serving, flavours and taste translating to a great dining experience. Entering this restaurant is mind-blowing. Cute chandeliers dangle from the ceiling with brown and maroon hues setting the scene elegantly — such a masculine vibe. Immediately on entry, your eyes connect with maroon leather seating. The hanging wooden frames, and wood interior of the restaurant make an incredible background for those much-needed Instagram photos. Going in, of course we knew that steak was a must-have, but the starters looked too delicious to be missed. We began the evening with Grilled Portobello Mushroom with warm brie cheese, roasted pine seeds and pomegranate and Maine Lobster Cocktail featuring fresh Canadian lobster tossed in citrus mayonnaise, microgreens, avocado and mango. The mushrooms’ pronounced flavour and almost meaty texture combined with brie cheese gave a soft and creamy touch with a mild, yet deeply satisfying taste. It was lightly grilled and simply delicious. The lobster ensemble was executed perfectly and filled with indescribable flavours. This appetiser was probably the sweetest lobster we had ever tasted whilst the sauce was so mellow and 68

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flavourful that it balanced the palate. The citrus mayonnaise and mango gave a kick to the flavours. Sinking our teeth in, we developed a whole new level of gratitude that even the aroma of this little serving had us smacking our lips. This has to be our recommendation for starters hands-down. Bentley’s knows the significance of a classic culinary presentation and showcased its skills through our main course — the food looked as scrumptious as it tasted. To continue our meat-fest we turned our attention to the 400g Angus Beef Rib Eye Steak accompanied by seasonal vegetables and rosti potatoes — but it didn’t stop there. The table was further packed with an array of sauces — Bearnaise, Hollandaise, mushroom pepper and green Madagascar pepper sauce paired further with a choice of truffle butter, garlic butter or herb butter. When we say the steak knife wasn’t needed, we quite literally mean it. The meat was so perfectly cooked, succulent and packed with intense flavour, that it fell apart on our plate with just a slight nudge of effort. Bentley’s know how to cook a medium-rare steak to perfection and we're glad we got to taste it! We tried most of the sauces and have to admit, each was better than the last. Apart from the steak, we also tried Grilled Chicken Breast Alla Diavola (chicken breast marinated in oregano, basil, sage and chilli flakes, garnished with seasonal vegetables). Really tender and flavoursome! For desserts, we indulged in the delicious Chocolate Mousse Disk, Molten Chocolate Cake and Frozen Berries with White Chocolate Sauce. They all were light and refreshing and an absolutely perfect contrast to all that hearty meat we’d just had! This restaurant is an excellent opportunity to experience some high-quality cuts. A place that will not leave you disappointed. ✤

GO: CALL 4428 1555 FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO MAKE A RESERVATION. fact magazine

• ON THE MENU

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MORE THAN MEAT Ailsa Whyatt heads to Medina Centrale for a steak fix and finds that Meatsmith is a place where beef cuts ‘meat’ their match.

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• ON THE MENU

ight in the heart of Medina Centrale, Meatsmith has an industrial and unfussy feel to its interior, which matches the simplistic but striking presentation on which it prides itself. This food needs no fluff, it holds up on its own. The concept was spawned by American Michelin-starred chef, Dave Pynt, who set up the first Meatsmith in Singapore, and passed on all his trade secrets to his Executive Chef, Oscar Engmann, who runs the kitchens here at Meatsmith, Doha. We are seated by Tia, who is extremely knowledgeable and very happy to make exceptional recommendations on what is good to eat here. Some complimentary popcorn, beef bacon and Parmesan snacks immediately appear, which are extremely moreish and make me worry immediately about making sure there is enough space for what smells like a sizzling onslaught of meaty deliciousness wafting from the kitchens. After a chat with Sairdal, Restaurant Manager at Meat Smith, who supplies us with a mixed berries mocktail (strawberries, raspberries, lemon juice and soda combined together for a fresh yet sweet flavour), the starters arrive. The Brisket Springrolls are my favourite; so perfectly crunchy on the outside, hiding smoky and tender beef brisket, all drawn together with a BBQ Aioli. I must also mention the Buffalo Wings, which are simultaneously crispy and gooey, as well as having the biggest kick I think even a buffalo could muster! A cool, blue cheese sauce sets the dish off to a meaty T. Yum. Before I tell you about the mains, I would like to talk about food prep. Meatsmith takes ‘made in-house’ to a new level. It has its own set of three fridges on display in the restaurant, into which

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ON THE MENU •

are placed striploin steaks, with rock salt blocks reminiscent of amber tiles at the bottom of each. These fridges are kept at slightly different temperatures and humidity levels, and the striploins are rotated across each of the fridges over a three-tofour-week period. The result is a striploin steak that is so soft that it barely requires any effort to cut. Ok, maybe I will tell you about the mains - 300g Icon Dry Aged Striploin is the only aged meat on the menu, and its weeks of effort in the fridges are definitely our gain. Served with a simple mixed leaf salad, fantastically garlicky Chimichurri sauce and Meatsmith BBQ sauce (the only BBQ sauce I have ever tasted which contains both treacle and hot sauce), it is melt-in-yourmouth tender, flavoursome and cooked to perfection. Not only are there the meat fridges, but Meatsmith has its own smoker hidden away behind them (with a 1,400kg meat capacity, no less), in which to smoke constantly rotating beef briskets for 12 to 14 hours. We are served the Meatsmith Cheeseburger, for which beef and smoked brisket are combined into perhaps the most succulent burger I have yet tasted, and then comes out the Smoked Beef Brisket. Yes please, we have arrived. The smokiness of the brisket goes all the way through this tender, fall-apart cut. It is the flavours you smell when you have been sat by a crackling campfire all evening. This has been infused into the taste and there is a pinkness to the meat, showing just how slowly and perfectly it has been cooked. The BBQ sauce adds sweetness to complement the smoke and it is served with

Meatsmith slaw; white cabbage and sultanas made creamy with sour cream, lime juice, a kick of pepper and a hint of maple syrup. Speaking of campfires, we are treated to the Smore’s Tart; blowtorched marshmallow set over a creamy chocolate filling, on top of a digestive biscuit base, reminiscent of those American campfire favourites, where biscuits engulf toasted marshmallows and pieces of chocolate to make a camping sandwich like no other! We finish with the Fig Tarte Tatin and 30 Bean Vanilla Ice Cream. The figs are sweet, with a gentle crunch from their seeds, the caramel sauce is plentiful but not overpowering and the roasted almonds on top are the nuttiness that this dish needs to complete it. Served with home-made vanilla ice cream, this is a firm winner in our camp! BBQ is not a sufficiently expansive term to describe the food at Meatsmith. It is a flame-grilled, smoky feast in a trendy setting, and we will be back! ✤

GO: CALL 5053 1111 FOR FURTHER INFORMATION OR TO MAKE A RESERVATION.

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• DINING DEALS

TUCK-IN AND BLISS-OUT Enjoy this month’s selection of special offers from across Qatar’s dining sector, including Eid Al Fitr and Mother’s Day celebrations.

ALWADI HOTEL DOHA – MGALLERY AtTEAtude Treat yourselves to an elegant Afternoon Tea featuring freshly baked scones, a selection of cut sandwiches, and a mouthwatering range of pastries. The offer runs daily from 3pm to 6pm and is priced at QR175 for two, inclusive of refreshing beverages. GO: Call 4009 9666, WhatsApp 3075 8211 or email restaurants. alwadihotel@accor.com for more information or to make a reservation.

ALWADI HOTEL DOHA – MGALLERY O’Glacée Pool Terrace Celebrate the joy of the season with an Eid Brunch with friends and family at Alwadi Doha. Enjoy a wide variety of popular international dishes, favourite house beverages and live entertainment. The offer runs on the second day of Eid and every Saturday, from 12pm to 4pm and is priced at QR250 per person, inclusive of soft beverages, QR299 per person with selected beverages, and QR70 for children between the ages of six and 12. GO: Call 4009 9666, WhatsApp 3075 8211 or email restaurants. alwadihotel@accor.com for more information or to make a reservation.

BANYAN TREE DOHA Qalamkarri If you are yet to try Kashmiri cuisine, now is your chance. 74

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Experience unique dishes from the Kashmir Valley in India with Qalamkarri’s impressive Kashmiri menu, available throughout May. Rich flavours and exotic spices await you. The offer runs from May 3 to 31, 12.30pm to 11pm, with prices starting at QR45. GO: Call 4410 3310 or WhatsApp 3992 0808 for more information or to make a reservation.

BANYAN TREE DOHA Saffron Watch the sunset over the city at Saffron. Sip on beautifully crafted beverages and savour tasty bar bites, including Chicken Satay, Spicy Tom Yum Prawn Spring Roll and more. The offer runs daily from 4pm to 8pm with prices starting at QR30. Also, if you are craving something extra, try the Siam Express menu and enjoy two courses for QR119. GO: Call 4410 3310 or WhatsApp 3992 0808 for more information or to make a reservation.

CENTARA WEST BAY HOTEL & RESIDENCES DOHA Dalchini Restaurant Head down to Dalchini and treat yourself and your loved ones to an Eid Al Fitr Tabletop Brunch. The offer runs from May 2 to 4 (TBC), from 12pm to 3.30pm, and is priced at QR159 per person. Children aged six to 12 receive a 50% discount and children under the age of six dine for free. QGrabs vouchers are accepted. GO: Call 4009 5530 or WhatsApp 3001 5360 for more information or to make a reservation.

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CENTARA WEST BAY HOTEL & RESIDENCES DOHA Thai Kitchen Restaurant & Bar Indulge in a delicious spread of authentic Thai dishes from a trendy tabletop buffet concept at Thai Kitchen Night. Savour your favourite items with unique cooking by talented Thai chefs, including a delectable, refillable selection of starters, soups, mains and desserts to choose from. The offer runs every Thursday from 6.30pm to 10.30pm and is priced at QR88 per person for unlimited food and QR169 per person, inclusive of soft drinks and unlimited house grapes for two hours. GO: Call 4009 5530 or WhatsApp 3001 5360 for more information or to make a reservation.

CROWNE PLAZA HOTEL DOHA – THE BUSINESS PARK Aramede Enjoy an Eid Lunch Buffet with local and international flavours. The offer runs on the second and third day of Eid, from 12pm to 3pm, and is priced at QR195 net, plus QR100 per person for five special beverage coupons for house grapes and hops. GO: Call 6641 5504 or email aramede.cpdoha@ihg.com for more information or to make a reservation.

CROWNE PLAZA HOTEL DOHA – THE BUSINESS PARK Rodizio A destination for the carnivore connoisseur, Rodizio is about meat, prepared on live open flame grills in the heart of the outlet and served to the table on skewers that allow the guest to choose how much or how little they want. A variety of meat is available, matched to an extensive grape list that complements the menu. The offer is available from Monday to Saturday, 6pm to 11pm, and is priced at QR270 per person (children aged six to 12 get a 50% discount) for unlimited cuts, plus QR189 for unlimited house beverages. Those who dine before 7pm get an Early Diner offer with a special price of QR195 for unlimited selected cuts. GO: Call 5038 2628 or email rodizio.cpdoha@ihg.com for more information or to make a reservation.

DOUBLETREE BY HILTON DOHA – AL SADD Broadway Brasserie Enjoy a Nashville Brunch with family and friends while listening to some live entertainment. The offer runs every Friday, from 1pm to 5pm, and is priced at QR249, inclusive of soft beverages, and QR349 inclusive of selected beverages. Get an extra hour from 5pm to 6pm at QR100 for more drinks. Children aged six to 12 receive a 50% discount while children under six dine for free. GO: Call 5578 9506 for more information or to make a reservation.

DOUBLETREE BY HILTON DOHA – AL SADD IKA South American Enjoy an Eid Brunch Set Menu at IKA South American with your loved ones. The offer runs from May 2 to 4, from 1pm to 5pm, and is priced at QR199 net, inclusive of soft beverages, and QR349 net, inclusive of selected beverages. Children aged six to 12 receive a 50% discount while children under six dine for free. GO: Call 5578 9506 for more information or to make a reservation.

DUSIT DOHA HOTEL Taste & Benjarong Celebrate Eid Al Fitr with back-to-back brunches in two of the hotel’s well-loved restaurants. Head to Taste on the first day of Eid for a delicious meal and some live entertainment. The offer is priced at QR299, inclusive of soft beverages, and QR410, with selected beverages. Then head to Benjarong on the second day of Eid. The offer is priced at QR240, inclusive of soft beverages, and QR348, with selected beverages. GO: Call 4004 4444 or email dhdofb.reservations@dusit.com for more information or to make a reservation.

DUSIT DOHA HOTEL Antoinette’s Spend a delightful afternoon in the charming setting of Antoinette’s as you enjoy quintessential flavours of France in a new Afternoon Tea experience. The offer runs daily from 2pm to 6pm and is priced at QR129 per person, inclusive of scones with clotted cream and jam, a selection of finger sandwiches and French pastries, with your choice of coffee or tea. GO: Call 4004 4444 or email dhdofb.reservations@dusit.com for more information or to make a reservation. fact magazine

• DINING DEALS

FOUR SEASONS HOTEL DOHA Pool Grill Restaurant Your Thursday night destination for beachside BBQ is back on with ‘Barefoot Thursday’, this time with additional offerings such as the delicious Churrasco grill. Gather with family and friends at the outdoor BBQ feast, dip your feet in the sand and sip on the new beverage selection including traditional South American or Brazilian sips at the beach bar overlooking the Arabian Gulf. The offer runs every Thursday from 7pm to 11pm and is priced at QR345, inclusive of soft drinks, and QR540 inclusive of selected and enhanced beverages. GO: Call 4494 8600 for more information or to make a reservation.

FOUR SEASONS HOTEL DOHA Elements Experience the new hybrid lunch at Elements. Savour your favourite international dishes from the new diverse buffet, including appetizers and a salad bar, and a main course freshly prepared from the delicious à la carte menu. The offer runs daily from 12.30pm to 3.30pm and is priced at QR150 per person for food only. GO: Call 4494 8600 for more information or to make a reservation.

HILTON SALWA BEACH RESORT & VILLAS The Beach Escape the city and join the fun at the first-of-its-kind Salwa Beach Fest. Enjoy a selection of food, drinks, carnival games, bouncy castles, face painting, art and crafts, character shows, drums and African dance. The offer runs on May 4, from 1pm to 6pm, and is priced at QR199, inclusive of food and drinks as well as pool and beach access. Children aged up to three can enter for free. GO: Call 4423 6666 or visit q-tickets.com for more information or to make a reservation.

HILTON SALWA BEACH RESORT & VILLAS Souk Kitchen & Levantine Celebrate Eid at Levantine, with a set menu at QR180 for a minimum of four persons or enjoy an Eid buffet at Souk Kitchen for QR225 per person. GO: Call 4423 6666 for more information or to make a reservation.

HOLIDAY INN DOHA — THE BUSINESS PARK Sirocco Enjoy an Indian Night Buffet including Indian delicacies from across the country with live entertainment. The offer is launching on May 11 and runs every Wednesday thereafter from 6.30pm to 11pm. It is priced at QR195 per person, plus QR120 for unlimited beverages and QR160 for bubbly. GO: Call 4031 3333 for more information or to make a reservation.

HOLIDAY INN DOHA — THE BUSINESS PARK Stock Burger Co. Doha Enjoy a Sunday Steak Night with your choice of 200g South African beef tenderloin, 200g CAB flap meat, or 200g CAB top sirloin ‘picanha’, all served with caramelized onion tarte tatin, 76

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gratin potatoes and seasonal vegetables. The offer runs every Sunday and is priced at QR99 for food only and QR139 for food and a glass of grape or a pint of hops. GO: Call 4031 3333 for more information or to make a reservation.

HYATT REGENCY ORYX DOHA The Cellar Treat mum to a Spanish seated set brunch at The Cellar. Look forward to a decadent variety of well-loved Spanish favourites from assorted tapas to paella, churros and more. The Feliz Día De La Madre Brunch (Mother’s Day Special) offer runs on May 8, from 12pm to 4pm, and is priced at QR280 per couple, plus QR100 per person for unlimited grape. GO: Call 4141 1234, WhatsApp 6608 5806, orvisit hyattrestaurants. com for more information or to make a reservation.

HYATT REGENCY ORYX DOHA Choices Enjoy an International BBQ Night and take your pick from the international buffet menu bursting with meats, including grilled adana kebab, lamb, beef medallion with chimichurri sauce, chicken tikka, smoked beef, kingfish and chicken rotisserie carving to satisfy all your cravings. The offer runs every Friday from 6.30pm to 10.30pm and is priced at QR220 per person inclusive of soft beverages, pay an additional QR165 per person for selected beverages. Children aged six to 11 are charged QR110 and children aged three to five are charged QR60. GO: Call 4141 1234, WhatsApp 6608 5806 orvisit hyattrestaurants. com for more information or to make a reservation.

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA BEACH & SPA Belgian Café It’s asparagus season. Enjoy a truly delicious White Asparagus Feast for you and your loved ones! Have freshly cooked asparagus with your choice of add-ons from meat to seafood. The offer runs from May 8 to 31 and is priced at QR125, inclusive of white asparagus, steamed potatoes, hollandaise sauce and one glass of your choice of hops. GO: Call 4484 4919 or email fb.icdoha@ihg.com for more information or to make a reservation.

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MANDARIN ORIENTAL, DOHA

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

The Mandarin Cake Shop The Mandarin Cake Shop presents a new signature collection of pastries and savouries. Featuring a variety of freshly baked pastries including the Pain Suisse chocolate twist, Mixed Berries Croissant, Layered Vanilla Brioche and Chocolate Praline Croissant. The new savouries are crafted by the team using the finest ingredients with Isigny Butter which creates perfect pastry layers and organic Moulins Viron Flour from France. Try the new Tomato Oregano Pastry with Feta Cheese, Zaatar and Sesame Roll and the Olive and Oregano Pastry with feta cheese. The new items are available for online orders or for pick up from The Mandarin Cake Shop from 10am to 10pm. GO: Call 4008 8888 or visit doha.mandarinorientalshop.com for more information or to place an order.

MONDRIAN DOHA CUT Enjoy an Eid Party Brunch at CUT by Wolfgang Puck with your family. The offer is available on May 2 and 3, from 12.30pm to 3.30pm and is priced at QR315, inclusive of soft drinks, and QR465, inclusive of selected beverages. GO: Call 4045 5999 for more information or to make a reservation.

JW MARRIOTT MARQUIS CITY CENTER DOHA Shanghai Club This Eid Al Fitr, brunch-goers can dig into a Pan-Asian Eid Al Fitr Special Edition Brunch. The offer is available on the first day of Eid from 12pm to 3pm and is priced at QR320, inclusive of soft beverages, and QR420, inclusive of selected beverages. GO: Call or WhatsApp 5506 2798 for more information or to make a reservation.

MONDRIAN DOHA Morimoto Enjoy Sushi and Steak Nights with loved ones. The offer is available every Sunday from 6pm to 10pm and is priced at QR222. GO: Call 4045 5999 for more information or to make a reservation.

MONDRIAN DOHA JW MARRIOTT MARQUIS CITY CENTER DOHA Feugo Enjoy a fun-filled Eid culinary journey with friends and explore Fuego Special Edition Eid Brunch. An inspired selection of delicacies and beverages from Latin America awaits. The offer is available on the first day of Eid from 1pm to 4pm and is priced at QR280, inclusive of soft beverages, and QR380, inclusive of selected beverages. GO: Call or WhatsApp 5506 2798 for more information or to make a reservation.

MANDARIN ORIENTAL, DOHA Mosaic Restaurant Join Mosaic for its Master Cut’s experience, every Wednesday evening where the nine live cooking stations will each present specialities featuring premium meat cuts. The menu highlights include Shanghai-style pan-fried Char Siu Bao, Australian Wagyu beef roll with enoki mushrooms, USA prime beef tenderloin maki and Beef Carpaccio with arugula. The offer runs weekly after Eid from 6pm to 11pm, and is priced at QR390 per person inclusive of a set menu. À la carte dishes are also available. Children aged up to 12 years old dine for free. GO: Call 4008 8888 or email at modoh-reservatons@mohd. com for more information or to make a reservation.

Hudson Tavern Enjoy a Saturday Roast at Hudson Tavern. The offer is available every Saturday from 12pm to 4pm and is priced at QR125 for a three-course meal and QR250 for an additional two-hour package. GO: Call 4045 5999 for more information or to make a reservation.

RADISSON BLU HOTEL, DOHA Shehrazad Lounge Bar & Terrace Enjoy an ‘S&S Roast’ of beef served with Yorkshire pudding, vegetables, salad, roast potatoes and gravy. End your meal with a delicious dessert. The offer runs every Saturday and Sunday, from 3pm to 9pm, and is priced at QR99 per person. GO: Call 4428 1555 or email fbreservations.doha@radissonblu. com for more information or to make a reservation.

RADISSON BLU HOTEL, DOHA Qube Join Qube for a Wings Party. Enjoy buffalo wings with your choice of flavour, including barbecue, honey and garlic or hot and spicy, and a pitcher of special beverage or mocktail. The offer is available daily from 7pm to 2am and is priced at QR150. GO: Call 4428 1555 or email fbreservations.doha@radissonblu. com for more information or to make a reservation. fact magazine

• SPA LISTING

GET SUMMER READY Checkout our round-up of some of the best spa and fitness deals coming your way this month. FOUR SEASONS DOHA Spa & Wellness Centre The ultimate relaxation awaits you this month with a calming Jet Peel Facial at the Spa & Wellness Centre. Transport yourself to utter calmness with the pressurised oxygen that will help detoxify, exfoliate and infuse deep into the skin. The treatment includes lymphatic drainage, a critical step to remove toxins from the body that will improve circulation and reduce puffiness and dark circles. The offer is priced at QR1,195 for a 90-minute treatment. GO: Call 4494 8888 for more information or to make a reservation.

FOUR SEASONS DOHA

CROWNE PLAZA HOTEL DOHA – THE BUSINESS PARK The Crowne Health Club Enjoy a day at the pool with some Pool Day Passes for you and your family. The offer runs daily from 6am to 8pm and is priced at QR75 for adults and QR45 for children aged six to 12. GO: Call 4408 7621 or email recreation.cpdoha@ihg.com for more information or to make a booking.

Spa & Wellness Centre Experience the new Aqua Spin Class at Four Seasons Hotel Doha. Aqua spinning is a combination of water sports and cycling which will help increase heart strength and leg flexibility. The continued resistance of the water will burn a significant number of calories with minimum joint impact. The offer is available every Tuesday, Friday and Saturday at 11am, 10am and 10.30am respectively, and is priced at QR150 for a 40-minute class. GO: Call 4494 8888 for more information or to make a reservation.

HILTON SALWA BEACH RESORT & VILLAS

The Crowne Health Club Feel confident in the water with swimming lessons at The Crowne Plaza’s pool. Prices include QR180 per person for one private lesson, QR1200 per person for 10 private lessons, QR100 per person for one group lesson, and QR800 per person for 10 group lessons. GO: Call 4408 7621 or email recreation.cpdoha@ihg.com for more information or to make a booking.

Eforea Spa Surround yourself in a luxurious destination spa for a day of tranquillity. Intrigue the senses and calm the body and mind. After this serene experience your mind, body and spirit will feel rejuvenated. This special offer combines the serenity of a 60-minute spa treatment, a delicious three-course meal and lounge time with pool and beach access. Enjoy this blissful day with a dear friend or family member. The offer runs every Wednesday and is priced at QR399 per person. GO: Call 4423 6401 for more information or to make a booking.

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HOLIDAY INN DOHA – THE BUSINESS PARK

Devarana Spa Devarana Spa is a haven of relaxation with the ancient ‘EastMeets-West’ Thai health and beauty practices enhanced with high-quality spa products and herbal preparations crafted from fresh, natural ingredients. The spa offers a wide range of massages, wellness therapies and beauty treatments designed to invigorate the mind, body and senses which are conducted by highly trained therapists within the 17 luxuriously appointed treatment rooms. A Spa Happy Hour offer is available daily from 10am to 3pm and is priced at QR400 for a one-hour massage and QR500 for a 90-minute massage. GO: Call 4004 4193 or 4004 4194, WhatsApp 3060 4170 or email doha@devaranaspa.com for more information or to make a booking.

The Holiday Inn Health Club Enjoy a day at the pool with some Pool Day Passes for you and your family. The offer runs daily and is priced at QR75 for adults and QR45 for children aged six to 12. GO: Call 4031 3622 or email recreation.hidoha@ihg.com for more information or to make a booking.

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HOLIDAY INN DOHA – THE BUSINESS PARK The Holiday Inn Health Club Work off those Iftar and Suhour kilos with a Personal Trainer. Sessions available daily priced at QR150 for one private session and QR1,000 for 10 private sessions. GO: Call 4031 3622 or email recreation.hidoha@ihg.com for more information or to make a booking.

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HYATT REGENCY ORYX DOHA Club Olympus Spa & Fitness Pamper yourself in a sanctuary of relaxation in the Club Olympus wellness area, which offers a wide range of massage treatments including a full-body massage, an aromatherapy massage, head, neck, shoulder, and back massages, and much more! GO: Call 4141 1230 or email clubolympus.oryxdoha@hyatt. com for more information or to make a booking.

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA BEACH & SPA Spa InterContinental Enjoy an indulgent skin brightening facial using Biologique Recherce products. Your skin will see an immediate brightening effect after this treatment as well as strong exfoliation and restoration of skin elasticity. A revitalising treatment for wrinkled, pigmented and thick skin to smooth and refine the complexion. The 90-minute treatment is available daily from 10am to 11pm and is priced at QR980. GO: Call 4484 4060 or email spa.icdoha@ihg.com for more information or to make a booking.

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA BEACH & SPA Spa InterContinental Escape and relax with the pure pleasure of a body massage, followed by a high-performance facial to renew and refresh. The two-hour treatment is available daily from 10am to 11pm and is priced at QR1280. GO: Call 4484 4060 or email spa.icdoha@ihg.com for more information or to make a booking.

using a variety of massage techniques designed to combat stress and anxiety. It begins with the application of a heated compress to bring a meditative and relaxed state. The Inner Strength oil blend, developed exclusively by Aromatherapy Associates, is used with its powerful mix of ingredients, including calming clary sage and frankincense, fortifying cardamom and rosemary, healing rose, vetivert and geranium. The session concludes with attention to the reflex points in the feet to ground and awaken the senses. The two-hour treatment is priced at QR1,560. GO: Call 4008 8888 or email modoh-spa@mohg.com for more information or to make a booking.

MONDRIAN DOHA ESPA Enjoy a special Eid Day in wonderland and submerge in a wonderful and calming indulgence as you embark on a revitalising full-day journey. The offer is available from 10am to 10pm and is priced at QR3,000, inclusive of a signature massage, facial, manicure, pedicure, a quick lunch and refreshment, and a gift to take home. GO: Call 4045 5550 for more information or to make a reservation.

MONDRIAN DOHA ESPA Enjoy a special Eid Hydra Renewal Facial. Retreat and relax during a personalised facial experience using natural products and special techniques. The offer is priced at QR900 for 60 minutes and QR1,500 for 90 minutes. GO: Call 4045 5550 for more information or to make a reservation.

JW MARRIOTT MARQUIS CITY CENTER DOHA Quan Spa & Recreation An ultra-relaxing journey is calling you this Eid at Quan Spa. Enjoy an Eid Al Fitr Special treatment including a 30-minute relaxing steam and bathtub therapy, a 75-minute Quan Spa Bespoke Massage and a 45-minute Deep Cleansing Facial. The offer is available on the first day of Eid, from 9am to 10.30pm, and is priced at QR890. GO: Call 5506 2798 for more information or to make a booking.

JW MARRIOTT MARQUIS CITY CENTER DOHA Quan Spa & Recreation Switch off your phone and unwind in the serene surroundings of Quan Spa this May. Relax and rejuvenate with the new Detox Ritual which includes a purifying steam rain shower, detoxing foot spa, organic coffee and coconut oil body scrub, and customised massage. The offer runs daily throughout the month of May, from 9am to 10.30pm, and is priced at QR780 for 90 minutes. GO: Call 5506 2798 for more information or to make a booking.

MANDARIN ORIENTAL, DOHA The Spa Begin your wellness journey at The Spa at Mandarin Oriental, Doha with the Inner Strength treatment for a nurturing spa ritual

RADISSON BLU HOTEL, DOHA Cabana Club Enjoy massage and wellness treatments at the Cabana Club, Radisson Blu, to help you feel refreshed. The range includes Swedish massage, aroma massage, Deep Tissue massage and a body scrub. The offers are available daily from 9am to 9pm. The Swedish massage is priced at QR165 for members and QR185 for non-members; the aroma massage is priced at QR235 for members and QR280 for non-members; the Deep Tissue massage is priced at QR195 for members and QR215 for nonmembers; and the body scrub is priced at QR195 for members and QR215 for non-members. GO: Call 4428 1621 or 4428 1622 for more information or to make a booking.

RADISSON BLU HOTEL, DOHA Cabana Club Join the Cabana Club for some Hatha Yoga. Sessions are every Sunday and Tuesday, from 7pm to 8.30pm and are priced at QR60 for members and QR70 for non-members for one session, and QR300 for members and QR350 for non-members for eight sessions. GO: Call 4428 1621 or 4428 1622 for more information or to make a booking. fact magazine

• TRAVEL

SIX DAYS IN

PARADISE

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Positioned on top of a vast underwater mountain range and encircled by a lagoon of crystal-clear waters, The Maldives is in a league of its own in terms of geographical location and natural beauty.”

hen it comes to ultimate travel destinations, The Maldives has to be a contender for the number one spot. Located at the top of many travellers’ bucket lists, images of this island paradise have etched themselves into our minds, evoking visions of sapphire blue waters, powdery white beaches, green tropical forests and golden sunshine.

The Republic of Maldives The Maldives is an ancient island nation located in the Indian Ocean, southwest of Sri Lanka and India, about 750km from mainland Asia. Consisting of 1,192 islands and stretching 871km across the equator, this archipelagic country is formed by 26 natural atolls, making it one of the primary world destinations for experiencing ocean life. Positioned on top of a vast underwater mountain range and encircled by a lagoon of crystal-clear waters, The Maldives is in a league of its own in terms of geographical location and natural beauty. With a recorded history dating back over 2,500 years, The Maldives houses a diverse population, range of cultures and traditions, due to its location and the resulting influx of people from other countries over the centuries. The official Maldivian language is Dhivehi, with English securing second place for most popular language spoken. This month, thanks to The Republic of Maldives’ Ministry of Tourism, the FACT magazine team were invited to spend six days in this heavenly destination. Booked into no less than three of the finest hotels the islands have to offer, we were thoroughly spoilt throughout our utopian experience.

Our Arrival After a four-and-a-half-hour flight from Qatar, we touched down at Velana International Airport located on Male. A quick and comfortable car ride to the harbour, compliments of the Ministry, and we soon found ourselves on a speedboat, out on crystalline waters, weaving our way amongst the picturesque islands, along the 9km route to our first destination. fact magazine

• TRAVEL

The Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa Even from a distance, the island of Furanafushi offers breath-taking beauty with its swaying palms and turquoise waters. As we disembarked from the boat, we were welcomed by pristine white sandy beaches, lush green vegetation and attentive staff from The Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa.

Layout & Accommodation This five-star Sheraton resort consists of 176 newly renovated rooms and suites. The layout features a variety of accommodation options including elegant deluxe rooms, charming cottages, indulgent water bungalows and villas, along with an expansive two-bedroom water suite. As we toured the facilities, we noticed how each accommodation has been meticulously designed to blend into the island landscape, with amazing views and plenty of privacy for all visitors.

Shine Spa Our first resort experience was at the award-winning Shine Spa, located on its own small island nearby. Equipped with six luxurious treatment villas, a VIP treatment suite, a his and hers hydrotherapy pool and a steam room, we couldn’t have felt more relaxed and refreshed after partaking in several of the available holistic treatments.

Divine Dining Over our two-day stay, we got to indulge at several high-end restaurants located on the island. These upscale eateries included Feast, Salt, Sand Coast, Baan Thai and House, all 82

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of which proved to be exceptional. Combined, they offer a wide range of delicious cuisines including seafood, Asian fusions, Thai food and Chinese dishes, many of which were served either buffet style or à la carte. Both Kakuni Hut and Anchorage Bar offered even more laid-back atmospheres, proving to be ideal spaces to unwind with a cold beverage, taking in the sunset. Additionally, The Sheraton offers several unique dining experiences. Romantic in-pool sunrise breakfasts, dining cruises on your own private floating island and picnics at one of the island’s secluded spots, reveal how the hotel goes out of its way to create memorable moments for its guests. We were fortunate enough to enjoy the iconic Sandbank Privé, a dining experience that really blew us away. Consisting of a tailored five-course menu, created by our own personal chef, this one-of-a-kind meal is served on a sandbank in the ocean. This scrumptious lunch was followed by an unforgettable private dolphin cruise with bubbly and canapés. Witnessing these intelligent and gentle creatures in the wild was a thrilling experience as we watched them effortlessly cruise alongside the boat.

Activities Furanafushi is situated in the North Male Atoll, home to more than 40 world-class diving points and multiple snorkelling locations. Perhaps the most fulfilling activity we undertook over our two days on the island was joining the ‘Adopt a Coral’ programme. This coral-fragment plantation activity promotes the growth and regeneration of reef habitats. Led by experts, guests are offered a hands-on experience in which coral

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fragments are secured to frames that are then placed in specific underwater locations. It’s hoped that the coral from these frames will eventually grow onto the natural reef substrate and thus improve the coral cover to the benefit of local marine life. With plenty of other diving locations on offer, along with guided snorkelling tours, water sports, island adventures and countless spots to relax on the pristine beaches, we were never without options and thoroughly enjoyed every moment we spent on Furanafushi. Before we knew it, we were back on the speedboat heading for Male. There, a seaplane awaited us, ready to depart for another spectacular island adventure. GO: VISIT HTTPS://WWW.MARRIOTT.COM FOR FURTHER INFORMATION.

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• TRAVEL

The Westin Maldives, Miriandhoo Resort With no airport hassles and a smooth water take-off, the 113km seaplane journey proved to be a comfortable one, taking just 15 minutes to complete. As we approached Miriandhoo from the air, we were able to appreciate the resort’s remarkable layout.

Layout & Accommodation The Ocean Villas are beautifully positioned along the necklace of a double jetty, shaped like a giant fish. With units on both the eastern and western sides of the jetty, the space has been well utilised, providing both sunrise and sunset facing options, all of which enjoy a panoramic view of the crystal-clear ocean. Numerous beach villas, some with pools, some without, are scattered on both the south and north beaches of the island. Family villas and a luxury suite are also on offer. All villas are separated by lush green vegetation, ensuring maximum privacy and insulation from any neighbouring noises. It was explained to us that the structures’ designs were inspired by natural elements and have been built in an eco-friendly and sustainable manner. Touching down, we were warmly welcomed by members of The Westin staff, receiving refreshments and kind words the moment our feet touched the wooden jetty.

Spa Treatments During our stay, we got in some light exercise at the WestinWorkout Fitness studio, as well as delightful Ocean

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Spa treatments at the signature Heavenly Spa by Westin. There, we chose to indulge in the new Detox & Destress programme; a series of treatments aimed at relaxing and rebalancing guests. This left us not only feeling calm and revitalised, but ensured we slept deeply throughout the night.

Fine Dining With several premium restaurants within the deluxe Westin resort, we were spoilt for choice over our two glorious days on the island. These venues included The Island Kitchen, Hawker, Sunset Bar and, our personal favourite, The Pearl, where we sat down for a memorable meal. Buffet breakfasts, á la carte dining, Asian street food, tapas and Japanese-style seafood were all a part of our culinary experience on Miriandhoo Island, and we thoroughly enjoyed each and every dish we were served.

Activities As amazing as the island and its infrastructure are, it’s the activities that will remain foremost in our memories. The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort is located in the Baa Atoll UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve, an area that supports one of the largest groups of coral reefs in the Indian Ocean, accounting for 5% of the world’s reef area. We were treated to an unforgettable snorkelling extravaganza and witnessed several endangered species including green and hawkbill turtles, along with Napoleon wrasses and a Tawny Nurse Shark. The coral reefs on their own make the journey to Miriandhoo worthwhile and we spent hours appreciating the sea life that inhabit these expansive reefs. Another small but beautiful virgin coral island that belongs to the hotel is located 700m north of Miriandhoo. Left untouched, this visually striking location with its abundance of coconut palms is in pristine condition and is used for picnics, beach dinners, vow renewals, and general exploration. Our time at the luxurious Westin Maldives, Miriandhoo Resort was truly unforgettable. It would have been even harder to leave if we weren’t headed to Kuramathi Island for more fun, sun and pampering. GO: VISIT HTTPS://WWW.MARRIOTT.COM FOR FURTHER INFORMATION. fact magazine

• TRAVEL

Kuramathi Maldives Leaving Miriandhoo Island, we were more than happy to have a second seaplane experience. Soon, we found ourselves back on Male, heading for yet another speedboat. The 59km ocean journey to Kuramathi Island took around 90 minutes, time we spent taking in the unending views and magnificent sunshine. Kuramathi Maldives is an eco-friendly island resort located in Rasdhoo Atoll, on one of only five islands in a tiny archipelago. The area is famous for its abundant and diverse marine life, including sea turtles, manta rays, whale sharks, hammerhead sharks and large fish including tuna. Vibrant reefs are another huge attraction and the entire area is well-known as a supreme diving destination.

The Layout As we approached the jetty, we were greeted by the now familiar site of lush greenery, white hourglass-sand beaches and attentive hotel staff. One of the biggest resorts in the Maldives, the layout of this five-star retreat is spread out over the 1.8km long island. Twelve villa categories offer an array of options for guests, including both modest beach villas and charming water villas. All guest villas face secluded areas of long beaches or are poised over water, providing privacy for all occupants. Some of the villas include hot tubs or private pools. An outdoor tennis court is also available for guests. 86

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over the turquoise waters. Live music, a resident DJ and karaoke evenings all added to the festive atmosphere and we thoroughly enjoyed hopping from one venue to the next.

Activities As an ideal location for families, groups and couples, Kuramathi Maldives offers a wide variety of activities for all ages and levels of fitness. Our first experience was a leisurely walk through the island’s botanical gardens. Here we were introduced to several species of plants used for a wide range of purposes. We highly appreciated the beauty of these grounds, as well as the wealth of knowledge provided by our guide. Of course, we had to have an ocean experience whilst in Rasdhoo Atoll and we were not disappointed. We were taken to several snorkelling spots where we spent hours inspecting the colourful coral reefs and abundance of marine life. There are several diving options for established divers, including the popular excursion to Shark Point. There, skilled practitioners can dive with various types of sharks, rays, turtles and barracuda. For guests not yet qualified, the resort offers SSI and PADI diver qualification courses, run by experienced instructors. With so many recreational activities available for guests, including an array of water sports, boat rides, cruises, island hopping and even adventures in a semi-submarine, there is definitely something for everyone at Kuramathi Maldives. ✤ GO: VISIT HTTPS://WWW.KURAMATHI.COM/ FOR FURTHER INFORMATION.

Kuramathi Spa Set amongst luscious vegetation with clear views of the ocean, this luxurious spa’s facilities include 13 treatment rooms, rain showers, a herbal essence steam bath, a Finnish sauna, and a Cool Dip Pool. After a soothing pre-treatment herbal tea, we enjoyed several treatments, including skin care and deep body massages. By the time we were done, we felt as if we were floating; our bodies having never felt better.

Delicious Dining Kuramathi Resort houses no less than nine à la carte restaurants, three international buffet restaurants and offers several private dining options. Over our two days on the island, we were fortunate enough to indulge in teppanyaki dining at Kobe, Mediterranean dishes at Palm, as well as sumptuous Asian specialities at Inguru. We were even lucky enough to be invited for fine dining at Duniye, the resort’s premium restaurant, where we partook of an array of world cuisines. Every dish we tasted was exceptional and we cannot sing the praises of these restaurants loudly enough. Seven bars are located across the resort, providing ideal spots to relax with friends or to take in the picturesque sunsets

PARTING IS SUCH SWEET SORROW

All too soon it was time to bid farewell to Kuramathi and the Maldives. Boarding a speedboat for Male one last time, a bittersweet sensation engulfed us. Although hugely grateful for our time amongst these spectacular islands, we experienced some sorrow at having to leave all this beauty behind. During the plane ride back to Qatar, we reminisced over our once-in-a-lifetime Maldivian experience. The friendly faces of the locals and hotel staff, the spectacular island views, the amazing marine life, the warm welcoming waters of the ocean, along with the sumptuous cuisine and breathtaking sunsets. The adventure of this magical location will forever hold a special place in our hearts and memories. GO: WWW.TOURISM.GOV.MV FOR FURTHER INFORMATION.

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• ENTERTAINMENT

BIG SCREEN The Batman Need to Know:

The Batman is a 2022 action movie and the newest film about this iconic character based on the DC comics stories. From Batman's first appearance in DC comics in 1939, this is a character that has been used many times, however, this latest motion picture feels very different from previous depictions. The casting is incredible, as well as the soundtrack and cinematography.

Directors: Matt Reeves Cast: Robert Pattinson, Zoë Kravitz, Paul Dano, Jeffrey Wright

“

Everything about this movie was hauntingly beautiful; you'll be in awe as you watch each perfectly crafted scene.

Turning Red Need to Know:

Turning Red is a 2022 Disney - Pixar animation following a young girl turning 13 who finds herself drifting from her mother as her interests expand. It's the typical coming-of-age story with a major twist. This movie follows the style of many previous Pixar offerings, with cute animation and a light-hearted, fun story.

Director: Domee Shi Cast: Rosalie Chiang, Sandra Oh, Maitreyi Ramakrishnan, Ava Morse

Why Is It Worth Watching?

In this movie, we follow Batman and his alter ego Bruce Wayne (Robert Pattinson), as he attempts to rid Gotham City of crime and corruption. During his purge of criminals, he comes across a grizzly series of murders that seem to be connected to him and the corruption in the city. The storyline is well thought out and executed as it keeps a strong grip on the audience's attention. The cinematography and visuals were also jaw-dropping, including the consistent use of dark colours and oranges and reds that connected all the scenes perfectly. The perspective of the movie and the dim lighting also effectively created tension – as the camera often puts the audience in the characters' places, which only adds thrill to it. The casting was also spectacular as Robert Pattinson embodies the stoic and nihilistic Batman to perfection, and Paul Dano's depiction of the Riddler was flawless and spine chilling. The soundtrack is the final performer in this incredible film, and you will never again be able to hear Nirvana’s Something in The Way without feeling chills. Everything about this movie was hauntingly beautiful; you'll be in awe as you watch each perfectly crafted scene. This was such a wonderful movie to watch. I was on the edge of my seat from start to finish.

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Why Is It Worth Watching?

The movie follows the 13-year-old Mei Lee (Rosalie Chiang) as she discovers her ability to turn into a giant red panda when her emotions get out of control, something that has been passed down in her family for generations. During this tumultuous time, she drifts from her family as she wishes to be her own person and not the perfect daughter her mother expects her to be. This is an adorable story about growth, friendship and family. The animation is incredible, with each character being extremely expressive and the movements being fluid. The backgrounds and details are also well animated, with many references to Toronto, where the story is placed. And with the movie being set in 2002, there is a lot of 2000s nostalgia. From Mei Lee's Tamagotchi to the girl's boy band obsession. A perfect joyful film to watch with family or by yourself.

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• ARTS & CULTURE

WEAVING THROUGH THE TIMES/ BALLET, THE SEA, AND SEDU Ballet photographer turned Sedu artist captures the importance of culture in his work.

enezuelan artist Johnatan Tepper is making waves in Doha as he brings the past back to life in his pieces, mainly using traditional Qatari Sedu cloth to add a contemporary twist to the old-fashioned garment. Calling himself an ‘archaeologist of materials’, Johnatan’s aim is never to diminish their essence, but rather shed light on their heritage and importance in the modern world. “These materials have one thing in common: they are trying to survive in our time. Using the technique of weaving, I alter their original form, reconstructing the material to help it be reborn as a contemporary artistic expression,” he says. “For me, culture is the result of the art created by the people. Art you see every day, surrounding you like music or cloth, is culture.” The professional photographer by day and artist by night moved to Doha eight years ago. He thereafter started experimenting with Sedu. He describes his relocation experience, saying: “Coming from the other side of the world and living in the Middle

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East has the beauty of feeling you are on another planet. From the ground to the sky, everything is so different. Everywhere I looked I found a new experience or material that could enrich my work. Then I discovered Sedu, the material that has influenced most of my creations in Qatar.” Johnatan is the Director of the Photo and Video department of Social Media Solutions Qatar and has just been appointed as an Artist in Residence at The Fire Station, a contemporary art space that helps promote creative practice in the country. “My first interest was being a photographer,” he says. “So, I studied and prepared myself for that. “When I met my wife, she told me she was a ballet dancer. I was intrigued and asked her if I could photograph her in one of her performances. It was in a big theatre in Caracas. I am specialised in low-light photography (photography for theatre or low-light conditions and fast movements). It’s a very technical photography and more so in those days. Just one click and it must be in the right time and the right lighting conditions. I finished as tired as the ballet dancers after each performance.

ARTS & CULTURE •

“The company were amazed by the quality of the images and asked me to be the official photographer. Suddenly I was one of the most recognised photographers of ballet in my country doing big presentations in the biggest theaters and for all ballet companies in Caracas, from international dance performances to the most recognised ballet schools. I did that for 10 years and to be honest, I really miss it.” Johnatan has spent all his working life as a photographer in parallel to his art. He expresses his gratitude for the profession, which has allowed him to develop himself as an artist and support his family and has also given him some of the most precious memories. He eventually pursued a bachelor’s in painting at the Universidad Armando Reveron in Caracas Venezuela and a master’s in public art at the Universidad Politecnica de Valencia in Spain. “I was an art student in Caracas parallel to my career as a professional photographer. It was fun those days because every time I had a job, I developed the film and looked at the photos at my studio in the university,” he says. “My colleagues would gather around me to see the photos and also spot how many I missed from the 36 frames I had for each roll. With film you don’t know what you get. They used to say out loud to the other artists in the studio ‘First Roll! Three missed photos!’, ‘Second roll! Four missed!’ I really felt so happy to share

those moments with my fellow artists and friends.” Johnatan mainly enjoyed the sea as a child in Venezuela, riding waves and playing sports. His earliest memory of dabbling with art is with his grandmother. He explains: “My grandmother was Danish and grew up in the countryside of Denmark. She always found ways to makes things. We, my brother and I, were always experimenting and creating things when we were at her house every summer. She taught me how to create landscapes with coloured beans. We played with wooden blocks. With no Netflix or Internet children like us had to find our own entertainment, and that’s what she gave us. “The special moment came when she brought us our uncle’s Legos. For me, Legos was the starting point of my whole artistic career. The creativity implemented in my early Lego creations is the same inspiration I now use for my art.” Johnatan has participated in various exhibitions around the world, including his home country as well as the US, Spain and Qatar. Though being a full-time artist has not come to fruition to this day, it remains his ultimate goal. His appointment at The Fire Station is challenging him in new ways. He is currently working on the last piece for the upcoming end-of-residency exhibition which will showcase all the artists in residence’s work. ✤

fact magazine

THE MYSTIC JOURNEY

An homage to our new post-lockdown appetite for life, the S/S 2022 collection from the Istanbul-based streetwear brand Les Benjamins is a celebration of soul-searching and excitement. 92

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FASHION FOCUS •

“The key inspiration is Jacques Majorelle,” explains Bunyamin Aydın, the brand’s Creative Director. “For this collection, I split his story in two: the first part is dedicated to his paintings of the people of the Kasbah. The second is inspired by his design of the iconic Majorelle Garden and its blue story.” This season’s bold retro-futuristic influence infuses the men’s and women’s collections with effervescence as the colour palette explores deep chromatics, such as Majorelle blue, Citroen yellow, and warm Tangerine, while the printed patterns take on a kaleidoscopic feel that leads us to self-exploration. “I felt like I needed a mystic journey that is going to make me forget about the here and now, and take me to tomorrow,” says Bunyamin. “The Majorelle Garden has always mesmerised me and when I took a deeper look into Marrakesh, I really felt the urge to cast my eye there this season.” The 1970s are omnipresent, flourishing across the collection in psychedelic prints and distorted tonal carpet motifs and trims, while flower lace lamination – inspired by Marrakesh’s iconic Majorelle Garde – adds a whimsical touch to urban silhouettes. Drawing from traditional tailoring techniques and cuts, as seen in djellabas, kaftans and shalwars, pieces across both men’s and women’s lines are fused with streetwear elements that give a contemporary twist to timeless garments. Flower and bird prints appear across embroidery on jersey, cupro and leather – each inspired by traditional handcrafted items, echoing the symbolic nature of a mystical journey and spiritual rebirth. “I live in duality, and I’m proud of my Turkish roots. Juxtaposition has always been a technique that reflects my upbringing in Germany. Therefore, the collection is a reflection of duality, where soul-searching meets a psychedelic-inspired journey throughout Eastern cultures,” adds Bunyamin. ✤

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• FASHION FOCUS

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FASHION FOCUS •

GO: VISIT LESBENJAMINS.COM FOR FURTHER INFORMATION. fact magazine

• FOR HER

NEW &

LUSH

Sticky Dates Shower Gel Start your day with this delicious treat. Lush’s new Sticky Dates Shower Gel is a dessert of warming and indulgence syrup that will set you up for the days of festivities ahead. The formula takes inspiration from dishes made across the globe to celebrate Eid, of which many, especially the sweet stuff, include dates. This gel has a whopping 25% of organic date syrup infusion, made with dates from northern africa, to condition your skin. it also boasts fragrant vanilla pod infusion along with some zesty fresh orange juice, both reminiscent of Eid-time delicacies. The warm carob resinoid and woody sandalwood oil round everything out while paying homage to the incense and perfume normally worn during Eid.

YSL Rouge Sur Mesure YSL’s brand-new and highly innovative device is the next big thing. It’s lipstick, but not as we know it. Get ready to experience the first smart personalised lip-colour device, infused with YSL’s legendary colour expertise and powered by patented technology from Perso. Use the machine to create shades which are ‘truly’ like no other. Download the app, choose your cartridges and slot each into any of the three holes. Experiment with shades and create colours to wear just for you. You can choose how much lipstick you would like to make, enough to test or to wear several times. Blend the formula using the applicator brush and voila! You have your own personal lip shade.

NATURALS BY WATSONS Coffee Shampoo Enjoy Naturals by Watsons Coffee Shampoo and boost your hair’s energy levels with its key ingredient, coffee. The powerful antioxidant, grown in Africa and Brazil, prevents breakage, removes excess oil and revitalises the hair, keeping it soft and luscious while protecting its colour for that truly incredible shine.

ELEMIS Superfood Midnight Facial This enchanting product is a prebiotic night cream that transforms a dry thirsty complexion into light and silky-soft, healthy skin, replenished with moisture. Wake up to your best face with this luxurious facial. The product works for all skin types and aims to rejuvenate dull dehydrated skin using a unique formula of camu camu, well-known for its rich concentration of vitamin C; cocoa butter, which contains the highly crucial omega six and nine fatty acids; and banana flower extract, which offers hydrating and prebiotic properties. The cream is light enough for everyday use and rich enough to see the difference the morning after, removing signs of fatigue and improving the complexion.

CHARLOTTE TILBURY Beautiful Skin Foundation A medium-coverage, hydrating foundation that gives everyone skin that looks beautifully smooth, bright and plump and gives it that special glow. The rose complex helps target signs of stress and fatigue, including dullness, pigmentation and dark circles, for a fresher look. Hyaluronic acid helps hydrate the skin and improve your look with each wear, smoothening the skin tone and reducing the appearance of pores and blemishes. The Bix’Activ helps decrease oiliness and shine and coconut extract works to hydrate the skin helping it look younger. The foundation is available in 30 shades and has a long-lasting wear of up to 16 hours. It is also vegan-friendly as well as packaged in recyclable material with an engravable lid! 96

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FOR HIM •

NOW Scents, skincare, grooming musthaves – check. JO MALONE LONDON

KIEHL’S Facial Fuel Energizing Scrub

Velvet Rose & Oud Cologne Intense

This energising and revitalising facial scrub for men

A rich and dense perfume, Jo Malone London’s

removes dead skin, dirt and oil, leaving the skin

Velvet Rose & Oud Cologne Intense harbours

feeling smooth, clean and fresh. The paraben- and

the fragrances of clove, damask rose and oud.

sulphate-free scrub is infused with caffeine, which

The clove incorporates an intense and spicy

helps stimulate the skin; menthol, an invigorating

warmth, reminiscent of the many dishes we have

ingredient that helps add freshness; and apricot

in our region which use this underrated spice.

kernel oil, derived from crushed apricot shells that

The damask rose adds a delicate floral note to the

help exfoliate the skin. The product also includes

fragrance, with honey facets that wrap the scent

vitamin E and citrus extracts that work to replenish

with a sumptuous texture. And finally, the oud, the

the skin. Applying the scrub and rubbing gently will

base scent, something we are very familiar with,

help alleviate roughness, cleanse impurities and

adds a dark and strong twist, adding intensity and

prepare for a comfortable and close shave. Apply

depth. All-in-all the scent becomes both rich and

two to three times a week.

woody, as well as light.

SUPERGOOP! Unseen Sunscreen

THE ART OF SHAVING

This

unbelievably

smooth

and

weightless

sunscreen provides protection like you never

Stubble Balm

thought possible. The Unseen Sunscreen is an

This amazing product easily absorbs into the skin and

invisible cream with a strength of SPF 40 and made

softens uncomfortable stubble, hydrating both the

with the cleanest ingredients for daily use. The oil-

Super Matcha Pore Clean Clay Mask

hair and skin and relieving it of irritation and itchiness.

free formula smooths and prepares the skin for

Feel fresh with the rejuvenating clay mask by Some

The stubble is left feeling soft, smooth, hydrated and

full protection while feeling light and controlling

By Mi, enriched with calming botanical ingredients

non-greasy. You can also apply it on longer beards

oil and shine, leaving a velvety finish. Red algae

such as centella extract, tea tree leaf water, glacial

to moisturise and soften the hair and increase its

help protect against harmful effects of blue light,

water, BHA and 102,000ppm Super Matcha. Apply

manageability. Its texture feels like both a light gel

emitted from electronic devices, and meadowfoam

for 10 to 20 minutes and rinse of with some warm

and a conditioner. Scent options include Sandalwood

seed oil increases hydration for a more even

water to cleanse your pores and hydrate your skin,

for a rich and pleasant fragrance and Bergamot &

complexion. The product is free from parabens,

while removing any excess sebum or impurities.

Neroli for a citrusy sweet and light option.

sulphates, phthalates and synthetic fragrances.

SOME BY MI

fact magazine

• MATTER OF FACT

What We’re (Still) Talking About PEANUT SELLER MAKES PEANUTS

I’M A BARBIE GIRL…

$44bn – The Price for Free Speech

‘BrownTok’ (the Indian-user metaverse on TikTok) is ablaze with Kacha Badam a song originally composed by humble peanut seller, Bhuban Badyakar from India. The song’s title means raw nuts and in it, Bhuban calls on passers-by to purchase his wares – raw peanuts – in exchange for small trinkets. The song went viral when one of Bhuban’s customers shot a video of him singing and posted it on social media. Since then, local artists have made remix versions of the song, which have played at every club, wedding and dance party across the country. A few of these have

Barbie, the toy brand, is known for its Tributes Collection, which honours famous figures. Most recently, the internet was awash with images of Barbie’s Queen Elizabeth II doll. The release of this version came in time for Her Royal Highness’ Platinum Jubilee and birthday celebrations. The doll is dressed in an ivory gown and blue riband adorned with pink and blue ribbons replicating those given to the Queen by her father, George VI, and grandfather, George V. Perched on silver hair was the iconic tiara inspired by Queen Mary’s Fringe Tiara and famously worn by the Queen at her wedding to

Elon Musk’s decision to buy out Twitter has got everyone talking. Out of everything that’s being discussed, a major concern is his statement on relaxing restrictions. Elon has been quite vocal in his criticism of Twitter’s policies on moderating content – account bans, content removals, etc. He vows to change all that despite warnings from and concerns raised by those in authority. So, will the Twitterverse enjoy true freedom of speech? Only time will tell. In the meanwhile, here’s a thought: we all know that the Internet is a cruel world and a large part of it is populated by narcissists

even featured the 50-something Bhuban, who became an overnight sensation. While fame is good, we wonder about the royalties. A local record company did reach out to Bhuban after he filed a police complaint, and struck a deal with him where they paid a lump sum amount, the figure is nowhere close to the revenue that the track has generated – that’s a raw deal, much like Bhuban’s raw peanuts. As they say, the rich get richer and the poor get poorer!

Prince Philip. Barbie paid a tribute to Her Royal Highness not just to celebrate her 96th birthday but also to honour her 70 years on the throne – the longest ruling monarch in British history. The dolls retailed for $75 and were sold out in a matter of hours. In fact, they were quickly being resold on eBay for $300 (what?). And this after netizens pointed out that the doll looked more like Helen Mirren than the Queen. Well, long live capitalism and consumerism!

hiding behind a keyboard. However, it has also facilitated important dialogue, offering a platform for conversation, debate and, yes, even calling out the bad guys – remember #MeToo? And as noted novelist and essayist, Salman Rushdie once rhetorically said: “What is freedom of expression? Without the freedom to offend, it ceases to exist.” Moreover, users have a choice whether to be on Twitter or not – it may not be a choice you like but it is a choice.

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