FACT Qatar November 2021 by Fact ME

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12 18 44 World Chefs Welcome

Out & About

Food With A View

CONTENTS

66 72 82 Luxury Thrills

Arts & Culture

Matter of Fact

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• THE EDITOR

All About The Weather

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“The antidote to exhaustion isn’t rest. It’s nature.” – Shikoba

elcome to a November issue that’s packed with things for you to see, do and taste. In our cover story this month we’ve headed to the great outdoors to take advantage of all the activities available to us

FACT Magazine Qatar Edition • NOVEMBER 2021 VOLUME 08, ISSUE 05

PUBLISHER RAMI KHALIL PUBLISHING DIRECTOR CHIRINE HALABI EDITORIAL DIRECTOR LIZ O’REILLY ASSISTANT EDITOR ASAD ULLAH DIGITAL EDITOR SARA WADDAH ART DIRECTOR SYED MUHAMMED RAIHAN

in Qatar now the cooler weather is here. From Jet

Skiing and kite surfing to every kid’s dream of fly boarding and paratriking (remember the film Fly Away Home?) and plenty more in between. There are so many options to choose from. I’m really excited to see what everyone will be up to this winter season – why not get in touch and let us know your favourite pastimes. In our dining section, we’ve also embraced the idea of stepping outside with two of our reviews going al fresco and we’ve actually upped our culinary game with more than the usual number of food tastings. Check out the Listen Up and Fact Find pages for the latest significant happenings around town, we’re particularly excited about the chef visits. And, in motoring news, you’ll find another significant chef collab, I’m saying

GRAPHIC DESIGNER OMNIA ELAMIR PHOTOGRAPHY SUDHI KOLLAROTH PRODUCTION & DISTRIBUTION AJIT KUMAR NEIL MAHMOOD EDITORIAL & SALES ENQUIRIES chirine@fact-magazine.com

no more than that I am a little jealous. For City Rides, we road tested the new Toyota Land Cruiser. What a car! And, in the Plugged In section, you’ll find a review of Band & Olufsen’s Beoplay H95 headphones. I’ll let you in on a secret, we were very impressed. For travel this month, my lucky colleagues headed to Abu Dhabi’s Yas Island and I was even more jealous of their adventures at Ferrari World and its counterparts – though I’m not sure I’d have been brave enough for the world’s biggest roller coaster. As usual, we’ve rounded up our favourite book, music and TV releases for you to try as well as new products to keep you looking and feeling great.

DISTRIBUTION DAR AL-SHARQ PRINTED BY AL ANAN PRINTING PRESS, OMAN CONTRIBUTORS CECILIA LERMEN GARETH WOODS LAYAL AL MAHMOOD

Enjoy the read and have a marvellous month everyone.

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

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

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“A bad day camping is still better than a good day working.”

ISSUU.COM FACT Qatar 84,522 reads of the October 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

DESIGN IN FOCUS Design Miami has launched a new partnership in Qatar with Msheireb Properties and an exhibition is scheduled to take place next spring at Doha Design District.

esign Miami, which was launched in 2005 and has since become the global authority for collectible design, has launched a new partnership in Doha with Msheireb Properties. The Gulf’s first Design Miami/Podium exhibition will be held next spring at Doha Design District, a space that is planned to be home to international design and art galleries, showrooms, creative services, innovative stores, and restaurants, creating an elevated, dynamic experience for Qatari residents and visitors For over 15 years, Design Miami has been focused on the elevation and celebration of design in the way it is bought, sold, understood and discussed within the wider cultural landscape. Putting forward the narrative that design is as collection-worthy as art, Design Miami features 20th and 21st century furniture, lighting and objects of art from the prestigious, expertly vetted galleries of the world, including Carpenters Workshop Gallery, Galerie Mitterrand, Priveekollektie Contemporary Art | Design, Etage Projects and Friedman Benda. The collaboration seeks to ‘define Doha as a new global design hub’, Design Miami said in a statement. “As Design Miami continues to grow globally, we welcome this partnership with

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Msheireb Properties and look forward to bringing our vision to Doha. Qatar’s capital has grown immensely and is an emerging destination for art and design,” said Jennifer Roberts, Design Miami’s Chief Executive. The Doha partnership is part of the fair’s Podium programme of pop-up selling exhibitions bringing together collectible design from galleries and independent design studios. Curated by incoming Curatorial Director, Wava Carpenter, this year, Design Miami will take place from December 1 to 5 and will explore themes of an interconnected humanity, the show will offer design lovers the option to explore and shop the in-person fair digitally as well. Whilst details on its 2022 Doha edition are yet to be revealed, the announcement instils further confidence in Qatar’s glittering design future. The partnership coincides with the announcement of the second edition of Design Miami/Podium in Shanghai that will take place in November. ✤

GO: VISIT SHOP.DESIGNMIAMI.COM FOR FURTHER INFORMATION.

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• LISTEN UP

ART THERAPY There’s lots happening this month. Here we’ve rounded-up the autumn exhibitions from Qatar Museums. In Qatar, most galleries, museums and art spaces reopened a few months ago, but with the fresh breeze of autumn — and of course the increasing numbers of people in Qatar being vaccinated — setting a date to head out for some art therapy and experience feels apropos. Here are the coming exhibitions from Qatar Museums (QM) that you need to take note of. Virgil Abloh: November 4 to March 31, 2022 “Figures of Speech” offers an unprecedented survey of Abloh’s creative work over nearly two decades and pulls back the curtain on his process. In the exhibition, prototypes are presented alongside finished artworks, product designs and fashion to reveal his myriad inspirations — from centuries-old painting to commonplace signage at construction sites. Running throughout the exhibition is an emphasis on dialogue, which Abloh creates through his inventive use of language and quotation marks, turning the objects he designs and the people who wear his clothing into “figures of speech”. Dior November 6 to March 31, 2022 Set to take place from November 6 at M7 in the heart of Msheireb Downtown Doha, Christian Dior: Designer of Dreams aims to showcase the story of Christian Dior, one of the most significant influencers in the history of fashion. Designed specifically for the 10

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Middle East, the exhibition is a celebration of the Parisian maison, which turns 75 in December. Jeff Koons: November 21 to March 31, 2022 ‘Lost in America’ is Koons’ largest and first solo exhibition in the Gulf region. The expo will showcase his exceptional career which has transformed the world of art since the 1980s and will present works from his most renowned series. It will double as a hallucinatory portrait of American culture as reflected on the intoxicating surfaces of his sculptures and paintings. The collection will be seen as a ‘Mirage of America’ in Doha. Pow!Wow! November 25 to December 1 Pow!Wow! is an international mural arts festival founded by Jasper Wong in Hong Kong in 2009. In 2010, the first edition of Pow!Wow! as a week-long festival was held in Honolulu, Hawaii. The project has since been exhibited in 17 locations worldwide with the purpose of city beautification and community building. QM now holds an exclusive licence to be the only host in the MENA region for the next five years. ✤

GO: VISIT QM.ORG.QA FOR FURTHER INFORMATION.

TRAVERSE A DELICIOUS VOYAGE TO THE SHORES OF THE FAR EAST! Packed with Pan-Asian specialties, this imperial afternoon of social dining and beverages, is an unmissable embellishment

QAR 240 FOR SOF T BEVERAGES PACKAGE QAR 360 FOR ENHANCED BEVERAGES PACKAGE

For more information and reservation, please call 4429 5295 or WhatsApp + 974 5506 2798 fact magazine

• LISTEN UP

FOOD: BRINGING THE WORLD CLOSER The two-year ‘World Class Chefs’ initiative aims to host high-profile and award-winning international chefs from all over the world in Qatar, with the purpose of further enriching the country’s thriving culinary scene and exploring investment opportunities. Qatar Tourism, in collaboration with Qatar Airways, Qatar Aircraft Catering Company (QACC) and Kings of Kitchen, has kicked off the ‘World Class Chefs’ initiative. Through the project, Qatar Tourism, in collaboration with its partners, will diversify the country’s tourism offerings for domestic audiences and international visitors by introducing new gastronomic experiences. Qatar Tourism facilitates investment opportunities in various tourism sub-sectors, particularly the hospitality sector, strengthening Qatar’s position as a tourist destination featuring restaurants by high-profile international chefs. Qatar currently boasts an eclectic dining scene with restaurants by many globally celebrated chefs, as well as a strong and diversified multi-award-winning hospitality sector, which makes the country a promising destination to introduce new concepts in fine dining. Berthold Trenkel, COO of Qatar Tourism commented: “The food and beverage sector in Qatar is reflective of the country’s patchwork of residents and is a key element of our tourism offering. Food-related events are extremely popular in the country, and we are excited to introduce the ‘World Class Chefs’ project, along with the return of beloved events such as Qatar International Food Festival, in the coming months. With a multitude of food experiences, such initiatives help showcase 12

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the country’s offerings in the sector to more varied audiences.” The ‘World Class Chefs’ project kicked off at the end of October, with the visit of the French Michelin-starred Chef Julien Roucheteau, who has many international awards to his credit. He is known for crafting the menu of La Table du Lancaster, an exquisite restaurant in the heart of Paris which won a Michelin Star while he was at the helm. He has also exhibited his culinary talent at other top kitchens and restaurants in Paris including Les Magnolias, Le Diapason and Le Cinq. Qatar Tourism has launched several initiatives and festivals to support the hospitality, retail, and food and beverage sectors. These include the ‘Qatar Clean’ programme in collaboration with the Ministry of Public Health (MoPH), as well as the ‘Chefs of Qatar’ virtual food festival and the country’s muchcelebrated Qatar International Food Festival. With the borders now open for international visitors, Qatar Tourism is maintaining a strong focus on improving the visitor experience to ensure the country is ready to welcome guests to enjoy its tourism products and offerings. ✤

GO: VISIT WWW.VISITQATAR.QA/EN/CAMPAIGNS/WORLDCLASS-CHEFS FOR MORE INFORMATION.

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• LISTEN UP

ANOTHER MILESTONE Spectacular Al Thumama Stadium becomes sixth tournament-ready venue for Qatar 2022. Qatar’s latest FIFA World Cup tournament venue was unveiled recently when Al Thumama Stadium hosted the Amir Cup Final between Al Rayyan and Al Sadd. The stunning venue – which was designed by Qatari architect Ibrahim M. Jaidah – was inaugurated in the presence of His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani as the country marked yet another milestone on the road to 2022. The inauguration ceremony took place prior to the final and involved local schoolchildren celebrating the design of the stadium. On the pitch, Al Sadd won the final 5-4 on penalties after the match finished 1-1 after 90 minutes. It was a record 18th victory in the competition for the Wolves. Designed to resemble the ‘gahfiya’ head cap worn by men and boys across the Arab world, Al Thumama is the first FIFA World Cup stadium to be designed by a Qatari architect. The 40,000-capacity venue will host matches up to the quarterfinals stage during Qatar 2022. It follows Khalifa International, Al Janoub, Education City, Ahmad Bin Ali and Al Bayt in being declared ready to host matches during next year’s tournament. HE Hassan al-Thawadi, Secretary General of the Supreme Committee for Delivery & Legacy (SC), said: “We are incredibly proud to have inaugurated the sixth tournament-ready stadium ahead of next year’s FIFA World Cup. Al Thumama is 14

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a very special venue for everyone in Qatar. It pays tribute to an important piece of clothing that is proudly worn by men and boys across the Arab world and its unique design showcases the talent and innovation of our people.” Al Thawadi continued: “We are now within touching distance of the World Cup. Soon we will pass the ‘one year to go’ milestone and host the FIFA Arab Cup – which will give us a major opportunity to test all our plans for Qatar 2022. We stand ready and prepared to host a memorable World Cup for the benefit of Qatar, the region and the world.” FIFA President, Gianni Infantino, said: “Qatar continues to amaze the football world and it will not stop until the curtain closes on the FIFA World Cup. Al Thumama Stadium is another work of art and carries a lot of significance for the country and the region. I cannot wait to see the first FIFA pan-Arab football tournament being held right here in a few weeks’ time, and to witness the first FIFA World Cup in the Middle East just one year from now.” ✤

GO: VISIT WWW.QATAR2022.QA FOR MORE INFORMATION ON THE FIFA WORLD CUP QATAR 2022.

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• LISTEN UP

OPEN CALL FOR PHOTOGRAPHERS Qatar Museums has announced an open call for the second edition of the Sheikh Saoud Al Thani Project and Single Image Awards to photographers from Western Asia and North Africa. The open call forms part of Tasweer, a photography festival celebrating photographers from the Western Asia and the North Africa (WANA) region. The award, dedicated to Sheikh Saoud Al Thani (1966-2014) — one of Qatar’s greatest collectors who largely shaped the Museum of Islamic Art’s extraordinary collection — invites photographers to submit their entries before December 20, 2021. The Sheikh Saoud Project Award is an annual grant for photographers residing in WANA, supporting proposals for the development or completion of a photographic project. The juryselected awardees will each receive QR30,000 to support their in-development or new photographic project. The initiative is an open call for a single image that best represents the photographer’s experience and personal narrative. Khalifa Ahmad al-Obaidly, Founding Director of Tasweer, said: “The Sheikh Saoud Al Thani Foundation founded the Sheikh Saoud Al Thani Award as a celebration of photography, giving representation to aspiring and established photographers in the Western Asia and North Africa region. Following on the success of the first edition, which saw entrants and winners of phenomenal talent and creativity, we look forward to 16

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receiving this year’s entries.” The annual photography competition is held in partnership with the Sheikh Saoud Al Thani Foundation, Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC) and the Social & Sport Contribution Fund (DAAM). As part of Tasweer’s collaboration with HMC, a selection of the winning images will be displayed on screens for in-patients. Qatar Museums founded Tasweer to nurture and shine an international spotlight on aspiring and established photographers and photographic communities across WANA. The initiative builds on Qatar Museums’ commitment to nurture artistic talent and support the nation’s thriving cultural landscape. Photographers from WANA are invited to submit their entries at www.tasweer.qa before December 20, 2021. Winners will be announced on March 24, 2022, during the launch of the next edition of Tasweer. Winning photographs will be on view at Doha Tower during the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022. ✤

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

La Casa Nostra Brunch

ITALIANS KNOW THE TRUE MEANING OF FAMILY, AND WHEN TIME TO DINE, ITS ALWAYS PROUDLY TOGETHER. Join us for the most notorious flourish of taste and most unforgettable brunch display, at Cucina Italian Kitchen. A family affair masterfully composed by chef Claudio and his kitchen mafioso, that embraces the freshest antipasto, pizza and pasta, adorned with a foray of traditional Italian desserts.

E V E R Y F R I D AY | 1 2 P M T O 4 P M

QAR 145, food only | QAR 265, including selected beverages

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• COVER STORY

OUT AND ABOUT It’s been a long, hard year of social distancing and indoor activities. But it’s finally autumn now. With the reopening of outdoor concerts, activities, sports and camping, there are many fun things to do this season. Around 83% of the total population of Qatar is now fully vaccinated with two doses and the fourth phase of gradual lifting of Covid-19 precautionary restrictions is underway. And the weather’s becoming pleasant, suggesting that this season might look a little closer to ‘normal’ that some feared (good news, masks are fading finally). We all certainly deserve to treat ourselves to a bit of adventure, on land or in the sea, especially after spending so long indoors in isolation, because of both Covid and the dreadful heat. What’s your thing? Watersports and camping, dune bashing or finding some tranquility at the shore? Whatever, we’ve got you covered. There’s plenty on the horizon to feel excited about and we’ve come up with some of our most longed-for outdoor activities. Let us inspire you to get out and about.

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A PRIME NEW CHEF

Chef Tim Nolte joins Prime from South Africa as the new Chef de Cuisine. Combining fresh ingredients, top-notch ﬂavours, and his passion for food, Chef Tim invites you to Doha's much loved steakhouse for a memorable dining experience. Join us for dinner or brunch. Saturday-Thursday from 6PM to 11PM Fridays from 12PM to 11PM #MeatMeAtPrime +974 4015 8888 +974 7021 8803

icdohathecity.dining@ihg.com

InterContinental® Doha The City, West Bay fact magazine

• COVER STORY

MAKING A SPLASH Qatar offers a serious punch of extreme watersports. Edged by the ocean on three of its four sides, there are lots of options to explore, from kitesurfing to parasailing, kayaking, flyboarding and Jet Skiing. Flyboarding is possibly every kid’s dream: it takes you up in the sky at the speed of a rocket, defying the laws of gravity, and leaves you there for a few minutes where you can gaze at the fish flapping on the surface of the water. Here, in Qatar pretty much every sports activity imaginable is up for a grab, including the thrilling jet-packing. Although jet-packing is very similar to flyboarding, the difference is that the pair of high-pressure water jets are strapped to your back rather than your feet, making it comparatively so much easier to control and balance out. In the past few years, what really has been booming in terms of water sports here in Doha has been Jet Skiing or personal watercraft riding, something that one should not miss on a weekend, perhaps. Many people now actually own one instead of renting due to their popularity. Jet Ski by the West Bay and get an absolutely starry glimpse of the skyscrapers while enjoying the feeling of mildly cold water splashing on your face as you motor through the waves. An experience all of its own. Another much-hyped activity bringing a massive adrenaline rush is parasailing. It can be conveniently experienced in the centre of the city at Katara Beach. You can go spend a day on the beach and warm yourself to the environment before being strapped to a parachute for about 10 minutes, hanging in the sky at around 600ft above the sea.

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The options don’t stop there. With the outstanding Inland Sea and Al Thakira Mangroves both providing kayaking options, there is an absolute treat in store for people interested in witnessing stunning wildlife and landscapes whist spending some fun quality time with either friends or family. All water sports in Qatar are available along the entire 350mile coastline.

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• COVER STORY

BENEATH THE WAVES While the temperature drops in Qatar, it is approaching prime diving conditions, with autumn bringing lower wind speeds lending access to clearer water. There’s this unexpected calm under the water. Carrying oxygen tanks and goggles and watching colourful angelfish flit past blue sea stars attached to the coral below, and some paddling sea turtles might just change your relationship and perception of the ocean for life. Although many people think Qatar might not be a destination for scuba diving, the opposite is true. Qatar has a long historic association to the sea, dating back to the pearl diving days. “Qatar has picturesque marine life which many people don’t know of and diving in the north and the Inland Sea is an absolute surprise,” says Khaled Zaki, a PADI-certified instructor and underwater photographer. For someone new and a first timer at scuba diving, it can be a little overwhelming to approach it. “Before you dive, you need to know a couple of important things — including which season for fish it is and what species to expect. If you are exploring a sandy bottom area, for instance, then you will encounter more sandy bottom creatures. But the fact is most sea creatures are very peaceful and shy if you don’t disturb them. The key is that when you see a beautiful creature, pretend you didn’t see it, so you don’t scare it away. Keep an eye on it but be very calm about it,” says Khaled. 22

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He shares how he feels when he’s there underwater all on his own. “It’s like meditation for me. Yoga perhaps. You can hear the sound of your lungs, the breath and motion. Everything is slow. You are floating. Diving is adventurous and educational at the same time. After a nice dive and exploring the marvels under water you feel stress-free. It’s like exploring a new world.”

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Scan to view our full Thanksgiving menu or visit uqr.to/Festive2021

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• COVER STORY

FLYING HIGH If you’re seeking a rush, to push your limits or want to tick off an adventure from your ‘bucket list’, paratriking could be the thing to do this autumn. Although some people may find it risky, it’s the adrenaline rush that really compensates for everything else. Amidst the deep blue sky at Sealine, crisp views and fresh air will fuel you up for an experience of a lifetime. A kart, or trike, with three wheels takes you up into the air with a professional pilot supported by a large paraglider. You’ll be talking to the instructor via intercom as you’re gently lifted off the ground to a height of 500 to 1,000 feet for a 20-minute ride. It’s also pretty affordable to the pocket. Paratriking is available at Sky Masters Sports Club at Sealine beach. The wind will be fierce even though the air isn’t moving up there — you are moving through it. Expect the sensation you get sticking your head out of the window of a speeding car on a highway, and then multiply it by five. The thing about paratriking is that it’s loud yet piercingly silent. Just a high-pitched whirring sound as you hear in a Hollywood scene when the main character zones out for a moment or two, thinking something deeply. The extreme emotions and feelings created by flying in the open air cause the brain to produce an active chemical combination associated with extreme sports. You can opt for different packages that include video footage and photographs of yourself flying that you can perhaps share with friends, family and of course on Instagram. If we’ve managed to convince you to try this thrilling aerial experience and you decide to go all out for it, don’t forget to share your experience with us on social media. We’ll be waiting for it.

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• COVER STORY

SHIFTING SANDS

LET’S GO TO THE BEACH

An exotic escape to the dessert, dune bashing, camping by the beach as you grill and barbecue with friends or family is essential for those wanting a sense of the real Qatar and an ultra-fun retreat. Now, since the heat’s coming down a notch, a starry night in the desert sounds like a great idea. As a tip, you could take your portable projector with you and find a rock formation amidst the sand dunes to watch your favourite film or show. Make a day of your dessert outing. Spend an afternoon spotting wildlife such as Arabian Oryx, birdlife or even falcons. There are several enthusiasts in the desert sands who may treat guests to an impressive falconry show. You can also swap your fancy SUV (Yes! It’s best to take an SUV all the way because in winter the sand may be a little too dampened in places and if you’re in your saloon, you could be stuck for hours) for a camel ride across the dunes as the sun begins to set. This is a perfect Insta worthy moment. There are several safari tours on which you’ll be greeted with a glass of date juice, followed by a hearty meal while the rest of the evening is spent under the sky on lounge cushions and carpets strewn across the sand. There will also be mint tea and shisha rolling in, all that around a spectacular fire show. There’s usually a fire lit to keep you warm as it can get really cold at night. For a picturesque experience, we’d advise you to head to Khor Al Adaid. It is one of the few places in the world where the sea impinges into the desert. It’s beautiful and is also a Unesco recognised nature reserve with its own ecosystem.

Contrary to popular belief, particularly among those who have not visited Qatar, this country is actually quite rich when it comes to beaches. There are at least 25 across the country and all are unique in their own way. Now is the perfect time to head to one of them, or all, to have a great time out with family or friends. From well-planned amenities at the tourist hot spots to out-of-the-way sandy paradises, we’re listing our top three for you!

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COVER STORY •

FUWAIRIT BEACH: About a two-hour drive from the main city, this beach provides an edge touching the foot of eroded hills. Sunsets here are beautiful with a picturesque view of the hills. A perfect shoreline of pink and white sand scattered with shells against the clear aqua sea is worth the drive. It’s usually not crowded, has white sand, clean water and perfect tranquility to dip your toes or simply sit by the sand to meditate and feel a fresh breath of air. You can bring in your camping supplies and spend a night here whilst gazing at the stars, listening to the ocean and barbecuing with family and friends.

MAROONA BEACH: Located at the south of Fuwairit Beach, it is located at about 80km from north Doha. Maroona Beach boasts fine sand and is the perfect place to relax or take a walk providing a beautiful landscape for an escape from the city. Find yourself, collect your inner thoughts, let it flow and feel the tranquility and crispness of the air.

INLAND SEA: The Inland Sea is the area ahead of the Sealine Beach towards the south, a two-and-a-half-hour drive from the city. It is a beautiful place that’ll make you fall in love with the desert. Although you will need a guide or a four-wheel drive to get there — it’s definitely worth it. Once you’ve arrived, enjoy the most secluded beaches and watch the flamingos as you enjoy the warmth of the sun on these peaceful shores. ✤ fact magazine

AN IMPRESSIVE SUV The beloved Toyota Land Cruiser is back and better than ever.

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CITY RIDES •

t FACT, we always love trying something new, especially when that something is the fabulous 2022 Toyota Land Cruiser GX-R. We were most excited when presented with the keys by the outstanding team at Toyota Middle East. Toyota is a massively successful Japanese brand, that has been developing and producing these beloved SUVs for over 70 years, and in the process has established the Land Cruiser as a household name. Upon first inspection we were taken by the robust and powerful presence of the GX-R. Available in 10 distinct exterior colours, this fully-fledged off-roader really looks the part with its bulky frame and array of functional features. At the front end, the radiator grille, along with the three-bulb LED headlamps, have been positioned higher to reduce the risk of damage during off-road adventuring. Constantly illuminated clearance lamps are connected to the grille ensuring you don’t bump the vehicle’s large frame at any time. At the flanks, the powerful silhouette of the vehicle is defined by sharply contrasting lines, whilst roof rails and 20inch alloy wheels add to the rugged nature of the vehicle. The completely flat bonnet joins a vertical grille at a near

90-degree angle, a design element matched by the roof and back doors. The contemporary design of the rear is defined by its modern shape that mirrors the straight lines of the rest of the vehicle and underscores the SUV’s solid stance. LED rear combination lamps are fitted as standard, while the wide rear bumper doubles as a step to assist with entering the vehicle. Once seated in the two-tone, synthetic leather, power adjustable front seats, we found the all-new interior of the 2022 model to be a sophisticated, practical and comfortable space. All materials used are of a high quality and everything has been positioned to maximise convenience. All the controls and switches have been cleverly grouped and are simple to operate, even while tackling challenging terrain. The cabin itself offers a multitude of advanced features including fourzone climate control and wireless charging for smartphones. The cluster gauge features a seven-inch, colour multi-function display along with a 12.3-inch multimedia display. This smartly designed and user-friendly system supports both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Optional features include a 14-speaker JBL sound system, a Rear Seat Entertainment (RSE) system with 11.6-inch, dual touch-screen displays as well as smart entry and start systems, amongst others. Space wise, this vehicle fact magazine

• CITY RIDES comfortably accommodates seven adults in its three rows of seating, with plenty of head, shoulder and leg room on offer. The luggage compartment also offers ample space to pack for long off-road adventures, especially with the third row of seats folded flat. Performance wise, the 2022 GX-R is powered by a newly developed 3.5-litre, V6 twin-turbo petrol engine that surpasses the performance of a conventional V8. It produces 409hp and up to 650Nm of torque. This capable engine is coupled with a 10-speed automatic transmission, a unit that assists in the reduction of fuel consumption and CO2 emissions by up to 10% compared to the outgoing generation. This setup allows the GX-R to accelerate from 0 to 100km/h in a respectable 6.7 seconds, pretty impressive for a vehicle of this weight and size. The drivability factor of this car is where it really begins to shine. The 2022 GX-R offers three driving modes, namely Eco, Normal and Sports. The full-time 4WD System with 50Mode Multi-terrain Select, along with Active Traction Control, CRAWL Control and Turn Assist Function ensure you are able to conquer any terrain this vehicle encounters. We found the handling of this SUV to be spot on and along with its effective braking system, superb traction control and superior cornering abilities, this is one of the most enjoyable vehicles we have ever had the privilege of test driving. We can only imagine everything the Land Cruiser VX-R and GR Sport versions, also available in the 2022 range, have to offer. Safety wise, the designers at Toyota have included a range of safety and assistance features to ensure the wellbeing of you and your loved ones. These include 10 SRS airbags including side-curtain airbags for all three rows, Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), Traction Control (TRC), Anti-lock Brake System (ABS), Brake Assist (BA), Parking Support Brake (PKSB) Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA), Downhill Assist Control (DAC), Tire Pressure Warning System (TPWS), a clearance sonar featuring eight sensors located on both front and rear bumpers, and so much more. ✤

GO: CONTACT YOUR NEAREST TOYOTA DEALER FOR FURTHER INFORMATION.

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CITY RIDES •

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“The contemporary design of the rear is defined by its modern shape that mirrors the straight lines of the rest of the vehicle and underscores the SUV’s solid stance.”

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• MOTORING NEWS

CREATIVITY AND INDIVIDUALITY Maserati meets Alajmo as the three-Michelin-starred chef customises his own new vehicle from the ultra-premium brand.

“Made in Italy” is a value that unites Maserati and Chef Massimiliano Alajmo, the youngest chef in the world to receive three of the coveted Michelin stars. From deep-rooted traditions, to re-writing the rules as they race towards the future, these two icons of Italian culture embody the courage it takes to be a maverick. Chef Alajmo joins forces with the House of the Trident in creating an exclusive vehicle under the aegis of the Maserati Fuoriserie customisation programme. The purest expression of luxury is the possibility to simply be yourself and, with this option, a car becomes an extension of our unique identity. This customisation programme, presented last September by Maserati, offers two different customisation routes. To use a culinary metaphor: Maserati Fuoriserie offers clients the choice of an empty plate on which they can create a singular, unrepeatable, one-off car; or, if they prefer, a menu of ingredients to choose from – including materials, colours and details – to be mixed and matched to suit their taste. The final recipe gives shape to the client’s personal creativity, offering them the choice from 23 exterior colours, 10 liveries, five dreamlines, five colours for brake calipers, three types of wheel finishes, five colours of Fuoriserie stitching, and three colours of leather, with the choice of monochrome or bi-colour seats. The Levante Trofeo Fuoriserie for Alajmo sports the colours of the chef’s logo: black for exteriors and gold for interiors. For 32

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Alajmo, gold is the maximum expression of brightness. In fact, in the kitchen, gold has always been associated with saffron which, with its colour, texture and taste, recalls the warmth and vital energy of the sun, bringing the diner one-step closer to it. Fully designed and engineered in Italy, like all Maseratis, this custom edition is characterised by soft gold-coloured interiors in Pale Terracotta, with contrasting grey stitching and matching embroidered Trofeo writings on the Trident sealed headrests. The exteriors, on the other hand, are in Nero Luce, a glossy black finish, accentuated with dreamlines in Mistic Gold, and 22-inch Orione wheel rims with black brake callipers. According to Chef Alajmo, when adherence to the rules leads us away from our original goals and ideas, we must break these rules to reaffirm the true essence of what we are doing, be it cooking, or automotive engineering. For Massimiliano Alajmo, doing away with the tablecloth, eating with our hands and ‘playing elegantly’ with food helps us regain a long-lost appreciation for the poetic beauty of sharing a meal with others. In the same way, Maserati Fuoriserie allows its clients to regain a long-lost passion: the infinite beauty of driving, exploring our most authentic self and discovering new roads. ✤ GO: VISIT WWW.MASERATI.COM FOR FURTHER INFORMATION.

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• PLUGGED IN

HEADPHONES OF THE HIGHEST QUALITY Bang & Olufsen have used their 95 years of innovation in sound, design and craftsmanship to create a contender for the very best headphones in the market today.

t FACT we understand how time-consuming searching for the right product can be, especially when there are hundreds of options to select from. When it comes to headphones however, there are only a few manufacturers that offer a truly premium standard. Designing and producing exceptional electronic equipment since 1925, Bang & Olufsen are amongst these outstanding brands. This Danish high-end consumer company has recently released their new flagship headphones in the form of the Beoplay H95 and we were fortunate enough to experience everything they have to offer. First, the highlights. We found the superior signature sound delivered by the set of customised titanium drivers with neodymium magnets to be crisp and clear. This combined with the advanced digital Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) ensured we were completely immersed in the experience from the moment the headphones were slipped on. Despite the sophisticated nature of this product, it boasts a highly innovative touch user interface that allowed us to quickly develop a full understanding of all operations. Importantly, we found the four-voice microphone ensured great call clarity each and every time. Available in five different colour schemes and sporting a brushed aluminium framework with highly detailed finishes, we think these Bang & Olufsen H95 headphones are a beauty to behold. The outer headband has been covered in high-quality leather and the inner with soft fabric. This and the magnetically detachable lamb skin cushions, ensure maximum comfort. Aluminium has been selected for the housing, sliders, mono arms, volume wheel

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and the transparency wheel, all of which look and feel first-class. The right wheel controls the volume whilst the left controls the adaptive noise cancelling. In truth, there are too many great elements and features of the design to mention in this article. The headphones fold flat and inwards to a very small size, fitting neatly into a compact aluminium-shelled carrying case featuring a built-in magnetic closing mechanism. The interior houses a spring-loaded hinge, a fabric covered lid and a textile covered headphone cradle and cable compartment. Connector wise, the H95 set comes complete with 1.2-metre USB-C and USB-A cables constructed with aluminium housing and fabric cords. A flight adapter and a 3.5 Jack are also included in the package. All-in-all we found the case to have been neatly put together in a visually pleasing and practical manner. Other notable features include a battery with 1.100 mAH allowing for up to 50 hours of music listening or around 38 hours with the noise cancellation engaged; the best battery performance of any Bluetooth headphones out there. This battery takes around two hours to fully recharge. Bang & Olufsen have also created an app for administrative tasks and settings that we found easy to navigate. The app offers support contact, FAQs, general user help as well as a sound matrix with no less than seven storable pre-sets. Bang and Olufsen have achieved excellence with this latest offering and we can only recommend you take the time to experience them for yourselves. ✤ GO: VISIT WWW.BANG-OLUFSEN.COM FOR FURTHER INFORMATION.

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• PLUGGED IN

NEW REGIONAL LAUNCH Hisense has announced its entry into the smartphone segment in the Middle East with the unveiling of its flagship models, the H50 and E50.

he brand-new phones offer an advanced camera system, infinity display, long-lasting battery life and boosted connectivity with sufficient storage. Both come with dual-SIM card support that runs on Android 11. The top-end H50 marks the introduction of artistry inspired by the movement of light, giving the handset a touch of a 3D gradient flexible curve design. A 6.81-inch full HD+ Infinity display offers an all-immersive viewing experience. The E50 has a 6.55-inch display and a unique 3D textured design feature. Both come with biometrical facial recognition algorithm and an integrated side-mounted fingerprint sensor that allows you to unlock your phone instantly and securely. The Hisense Infinity H50 sports an enhanced 108MP (12000x9024pixels) zoom-in camera, one of the world’s highest megapixel smartphone camera resolutions. The MORPHO HDR enhances the picture quality by correcting the colour and saturated dark sports and stabilisation mechanics make the images sharper than ever. The E50 carries a powerful multi-mode 13-megapixel triple camera and an eight-megapixel front camera, with the ability to align with your skin tone for balanced images.

Both the H50 and E50 have an advanced power saving system that extends battery life by intelligently optimising power to 5000mAh and 5100mAh, respectively. ✤ GO: VISIT HTTPS://HISENSEME.COM/ FOR FURTHER INFORMATION.

HOME CINEMA GOES ULTRA HI-TECH Samsung launches all-in-one home cinema 'The Premiere' for the ultimate next level in home entertainment.

amsung has launched ‘The Premiere’ 4K projector, the first-of-its-kind innovation that delivers an all-in-one home cinema right out of the box. The Premiere, an ultra-short throw (UST) projector that transforms the home into a theatre, is the industry’s first triple laser projector with 4K resolution and Smart TV UI. The Premiere LSP9T is the world’s first HDR10+ certified, ultrashort throw (UST) projector. Instead of being set up at a distance or mounted to the ceiling, The Premiere can be positioned inches from the wall and project a massive 130” image. With triple laser technology, 4K picture quality, and vivid brightness, The Premiere delivers an immersive viewing experience. Meanwhile, its built-in, multi-channel speakers provide cinema-quality sound with Acoustic Beam technology. In addition, it features Samsung’s smart TV Tizen platform, complete with built-in streaming apps and content casting functionality. The Premiere delivers outstanding picture quality and brightness, thanks to cutting-edge Triple Laser technology. In terms of colour, The Premiere’s RGB Triple Laser uses the foundational elements red, green and blue to deliver true, vibrant tones, while a ground-breaking contrast range ensures you can experience vivid light and dark scenes on a screen of

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up to 130-inches. The Premiere features 4.2 channel sound with speakers and woofers built right into the projector. What’s more, the surround sound offered is empowered with Acoustic Beam technology, which maximises left and right-side sound delivery for a truly immersive audio experience. ✤ GO: VISIT WWW.SAMSUNG.COM FOR FURTHER INFORMATION.

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• PLUGGED IN

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

Soundworks For many people across the globe meditation has taken an important role in their lives to destress and find tranquility in the real sense. Sound meditation plays an important role in finding that calmness while aligning the chakras. Soundworks provides a variety of modern sounds, all uniquely composed by professional artists electronically, without the traditional use of bells, gongs and whistles. The honed sound palette of Soundworks aims to enhance the quality of daily meditation whilst combining electronic sound design and psychoacoustic research. The app features a new sound daily along with courses, extended sessions and conversations. Courses are woven around artistic, scientific and philosophical topics and conversations, they include discussions on meditation, science, health and music with artists and scientists. There’s a feature to add time at the end of the meditative sound to continue meditation in silence. There are also extended sounds for longer meditative sessions with an option to introduce interval sounds and breaks.

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Toonita: Comics & Cartoon Photo Editor w Face Tune Using the same sorts of photographs on your social media platform can be a little boring at times. So, to aesthetically uplift your feed, Toonita can be a good app to add elements of pop art and comics. It can animate your pictures with various photo and filter overlays. The app offers exciting photo retouch tools and meme creating options with an array of stickers and photo filters. It’s a cartoon maker app with options like face tuning, photo retouch, and speech bubble selections. You can create your photos in five easy stages: prepare, stylise, adjust, add stickers and filter. In prepare you can crop, rotate, clone and enhance. The stylise stage includes 20+ cartoon filters while the fun part is adding stickers: from animals to travel and space after adjusting the brightness, saturation, hue and highlights. In each stage, you have the option to adjust the strength of the applied transformation — opacity adjustment is a key here!

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• 5 OVER 5

In Conversation with… Belal Al Kadry The General Manager of Sheraton Grand Doha Resort & Convention Hotel opens up about hospitality and heritage.

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5 OVER 5 •

How did your career in hospitality start? My hospitality career started as a sales manager at Sheraton Kuwait in 2000. Before joining Sheraton Grand Doha as Hotel Manager in 2015, I had experience at Ritz-Carlton, Doha. In 2017 I was promoted to General Manager at Sharq Village & Spa, a Ritz-Carlton Hotel. With more than 21 years’ experience in the leading hotels across the region, I was back to the Sheraton Grand Doha – which I call home – as General Manager in 2019. Tell us about your cultural background and what it’s like being a host back home? Are there any traditions you follow when welcoming guests in your house and space? We can easily say that I am a bit of everything. With my Lebanese origin, Levant culture is the biggest part in my background and this is coloured by Western culture by being raised in Canada and the US until a certain age. As you know – as a Lebanese, we are proud of our tradition of hospitality. As a part of our culture, we believe it is an honour to have a guest in our home and we try to make sure to make sure our guest feels at `home`. Sheraton Doha enjoys the repute of being an important landmark in Qatar’s history and landscape. How do you make sure to keep the property relatable to every age group through time? Since Sheraton Grand Doha first opened its doors in 1982, the hotel instantly became home to heads of state, celebrities, royalty, and ministers. It is not simply just a hotel, it is a milestone in Qatar`s history and a popular landmark with its impressive style, opulent décor and rich hospitality. Being home to generations through the years without aging, we are

a bridge that connects the past and the future; a vessel that holds countless memories. The hotel has a lot to offer for every age group with nine award-winning restaurants, luxury rooms, private beach and pool, Sheraton Fitness with football, tennis and padel courts. We consistently analyse our guests to offer the best service as per their age group. As Sheraton Grand Doha, our mission is being the ambassadors of Qatar hospitality and we will continue to be the destination for the most beautiful memories for decades to come. As an expat in Doha, what, for you, are the most interesting and unique aspects of Qatar, or your favourite thing to do here as a domestic tourist? There are so many great things to do in Qatar! There are a great number of fantastic restaurants with really high standards, family activities, malls, outdoor activities, especially in winter. I enjoy the sense of safety here with my family and the lifestyle allows for work-life balance. Any activities with my family are always the favourite – especially going to movies or watching Netflix at home all together. What advice would you give for someone aspiring to a career in the hospitality sector? One of the most important things in hospitality is finding something you love and doing it with all your heart. When you work in hospitality with all your heart, it is the key to being a great host for the guests. Try to always keep track of the things that provoke your interest or bring you a feeling of excitement and enthusiasm and go figure out your boundaries to push them further. ✤ fact magazine

PASTRY DELIGHTS Ashutosh Kumar, Executive Pastry Chef at Hilton Salwa Beach Resort & Villas, specialises in haute patisserie, chocolate work, Viennoiserie and global cuisines. He chats with FACT about origins, influences and alternatives to sugar, ‘a necessary evil’. 42

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VOICE FROM THE KITCHEN •

What first led you to baking and sweet sensations, and what have been the most exciting destinations to work in? I remember watching my mother prepare Gajar Halwa, a carrot pudding, as a nine-year-old, and spending time in the kitchen whenever she would prepare any sugary delights. One day, I turned an almost burnt, over-cooked milk into a sweet Indian confection; technically that is when it started! Malaysia and Macao have been the most exciting places as they presented me with unique challenges of working with non-conventional pastry ingredients and creating contemporary desserts. Malaysia has its own range of traditional sweets called Malay Kuih, this involves exotic ingredients and flavours, such as coconut milk, mango, pandan leaves, palm sugar and sago. Chinese-influenced desserts were also quite popular in Malaysia. Macau offered a more evolved and sophisticated dining destination, somewhat similar to Hong Kong – with some Portuguese influence from its past. From high-end Michelinstarred restaurants to traditional Macanese street hawkers, inspiration was everywhere. These two destinations provided me with unique challenges and opportunities. Sugar is often vilified – is it possible to create world-class desserts without sugar? I would say “Sugar is a necessary evil”! It’s important to lead a healthy lifestyle and be conscious about what one eats. While there are many alternatives to sugar in pastry making, the more practical approach is less sugar added or no added sugar in some cases. Alternatives for sugar are products like plant-derived inulin that can aid in preparing desserts with a low calorific value. Moreover, a lot of research is still in progress to find more ways

that can lead to healthier desserts with lower calories. Plant based, low sugar and low fat will be the key drivers in the future of the dessert industry. What’s your opinion of Middle Eastern desserts? How do baklava and kunafa compare with macarons and meringue? Middle Eastern desserts offer an interesting and challenging prospect, as these rely heavily on specialised labour-intensive traditional techniques. Another challenging aspect is the rich produce from the region, for example dates, nuts, saffron, spices, local cheeses and dairy products. It’s not fair to compare baklava and kunafa with macarons and meringue, these are all culinary wonders in their own right. In fact, the preparation of baklava and kunafa involves even more meticulous techniques that only come from experience. At Hilton Salwa Beach Resort, we try to elevate some of the local delights and make them our own signature; Katayef served at Levantine, our Arabic Restaurant, is one of them! We create local delights with a twist, by putting our own unique signature in it. Can you share with us your signature dish or style and explain what makes it special to you? Red Berries Mille Feuille, created for our regional ‘Life is Sweet’ campaign launching in November, is something very close to my heart. I like to reinterpret classics in order to create something modern and sophisticated. I believe a dessert should have an element of surprise and yet be true in nature. I usually start with the components – flavour, taste and texture – and also consider the presentation to ensure the final outcome appeals to the guests. It is important for the presentation and garnish to complement the actual dessert. This is how I would create a signature dish. ✤ fact magazine

FOOD WITH A VIEW

As autumn approaches FACT’s Asad Khan headed to Walima, at Mondrian Doha, to sample some hearty Middle Eastern food while enjoying the breeze on the terrace. 44

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CULINARY SPOTLIGHT •

irst heavily impacted by the lockdown and then the summer heat, with the easing restrictions and the autumn breeze in the air, restaurants are finally announcing the reopening of their terraces where Dohaites can go and enjoy the sunset with a breath of fresh air. And so, I also headed to one of the most Instagrammable places, Mondrian Doha, for an early dinner. I went there on a weekday early in the evening for two reasons: one I wanted to avoid the brimming crowd that the restaurant entertains during the weekend and second, I wanted to dine out with sunset as the backdrop for my perfect Insta moments. There’s something about dining on terraces, it gives you an opportunity to see and feel the nature more closely whilst enjoying the ambience and the food the restaurant offers; Walima offers nothing but divine flavours of Middle Eastern cuisine. I was led up onto the gigantic, wraparound terrace passing through the opulent dining room with its colourful bright lanterns hanging from the ceiling. The terrace offered promising views of Doha, most impressively next-door neighbour, The Pearl-Qatar, stretching out as far as the eye can see. I started my evening with a healthy choice of salads: Sleek Salad and Betroot Moghrabia Salad. Sleek Salad was a less chunky take on a traditional chicken salad, but creamier, more delicious and without the meat. This vegan salad is a very Middle Eastern dish; simple but well-loved in the region. The barley and fava beans provided texture whilst engulfing it was the tahini, garnished with walnuts and mint leaves. The best thing about this salad was it wasn’t dry. It was sour, yet sweet and pale. And as I took the first bite I could feel the undertoned flavours of pomegranate and mint leaves kicking in. Every flavour was distinctive and contributed to the overall vibe. This is the rich seasoning and strong flavours you

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• CULINARY SPOTLIGHT go for in Middle Eastern cuisine: hearty, vibrant and fresh. For the Beetroot Moghrabia Salad it was one bite, two bites, three bites — and before I realised, I had finished the entire salad on my own. When it comes to antioxidant-rich vegetables — the shocking purple colour of the beet says it all. Teamed with walnuts, fava beans and moghrabieh cous cous and you’ve got a healthy, tasty salad like this one. In short this was salty, sweet and a crunchy combination. Where the moghrabieh and fava beans were really soft — the walnuts complemented with their crunchiness. What followed was a cheese pide, a flatbread loaded with cheese toppings. Pide is a Turkish staple and the one at Walima was really similar to a western pizza crust. The cheese melted in the mouth and the thin well-done crust provided my taste buds just enough contrast of flavours. To describe a pide here, expect a pillowy dough with hearty mozzarella. The real standout at Walima though was the Lamb Shank with Pistachio, followed by mixed grill. Lamb shank is many, many people’s idea of meaty comfort food. It was braised in rich mint and pistachio sauce and was so tender and incredibly soft that it literally fell apart on my plate as soon as it had landed. Apart from how perfectly it was cooked, the shank had more than one taste, it had many bursting flavours from the subtle condiments used in the marination. I’ll get to the more impressive slabs of the grilled fare, but first an honourable mention must go to the Shish Taouk, an edition that is sure to garner many a ‘best grilled and marinated chicken I’ve ever had’! It steals the show. The mixed grill had different kinds of skewers: lamb kebab, lamb chops and chicken shish taouk, served with red-onion salad, a squeeze of lemon and chargrilled onion. All the kebabs were tender and juicy and I could taste the bursting paprika and ginger. They were packed with flavours — a smoky messy heaven. This is the healthy food you do not want to miss. I ended my dinner with Tahini Entremet. An interesting dessert in terms of colour and taste featuring sesame ganache and jivara cremeux. This was creamy but viscous creamy and crispy on the base with a nice combination of ice cream. Pro tip for dining at Walima: Order more than you think you can eat because here, you won’t stop. The food is absolutely divine. ✤

GO: CALL 4045 5999 FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO MAKE A RESERVATION.

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Thanksgiving at The Westin Celebrate an all American Thanksgiving feast with us at The Westin Doha Hotel & Spa.

Thanksgiving Dinner Family sTyle

Thanksgiving BuFFeT

25th of November 2021 | QR 250 per person

25th of November 2021 | QR 189 per person Seasonal Tastes

Hunters Room & Grill

Turkey To go QR 750 (6-7kg recommended for 6-8 people) Hunters Room & Grill

For Bookings please conTacT us aT 3359 8514 Visit www.westindoha.com to learn more.

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A HEARTY, HEALTHY START FACT’s Asad Khan headed to Le Colonial Restaurant with a friend to kickstart the weekend with a wholesome breakfast, where conversations took place on a table of waffles, pancakes and Eggs Benedict.

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FOODIE CORNER •

f you think breakfast in Doha is still shakshuka and tea, think again. For the past few years there has been a rise in breakfast-centric establishments all over the city and menus are packed with international and local cuisines, even healthy choices, like avocado toast and oatmeal. In Doha, breakfast is everything and everyone takes it pretty seriously. It’s the first thing, the beginning and a commitment to a new day. And, especially when it’s a weekend, you ought to have a hearty one, to really enjoy a laid-back day later. Remember breakfast at a restaurant? The reason one would wake up, dress up, and head to a favourite eatery early in the day, spending hours on a big spread with friends and family? It felt like another lifetime until recently. We were welcomed at Le Colonial Restaurant at Alwadi Doha – MGallery Hotel Collection for the quite hyped Colonial breakfast. The space was bright, with lots of pale wood and muted colours. The large glass windows provided a perfect landscape to expose the restaurant to glittering sunlight and the feeling of warmth. I knew it was going to be a wholesome Friday morning, even before going through the menu. I have this thing that if I like the ambience of the restaurant, the lighting, the interior — then it’s pretty much a matter of minutes before I fall in love with the place, even before I get settled in. The Colonial breakfast has an elaborate menu to choose from. From organic eggs and stuffed parathas to pancakes, muesli, oats and Eggs Benedict — they serve it all. And with nothing but love! We started our Friday breakfast with Cappuccino and Spanish Latte, followed by two different kinds of Eggs Benedict: The Luxe fact magazine

• FOODIE CORNER

(smoked salmon, lemon scented arugula and truffled Hollandaise sauce) and El Mexicano (guacamole, and tomato salsa paired with chilli Hollandaise). While both had their own bursting flavours, it was the El Mexicano for me that was really wholesome. It was spicy with just the right dash of crunchiness. I absolutely loved this recipe because it was balanced, filling and provided me with sustainable energy for hours. Also, the poached eggs on top of each of the Benedicts were perfectly done. We took a little detour from our classic English tea and opted for some healthy drinks. ABC (a blended smoothie of green apple, carrot, celery, lemon, ginger and beetroot) and Proper Lemsip (carrot, orange, ginger, ground turmeric and honey). Carrot and orange with a combination of ginger has always been my all-time favourite, when I’m not having a soda or something along those lines and trying to be healthy. The take-away from Proper Lemsip was just the right amount of ginger and honey. Not too peppery and sweet, deviating you from the original mesh and flavours of carrot and orange but still making the presence felt with a nice punch of aroma and acute bitterness. We started off with savouries but ended our breakfast with something sweet: Gaianduja Belgian Waffles and American Buttermilk Pancakes. You can never quite go wrong with chocolate. The waffles had a twist of orange chunks drizzled with dark chocolate sauce and crushed hazelnuts: nothing too sweet for the palate. The orange with the chocolate and crispy base of waffle made a delightful combination, as they complemented each other perfectly. The sharp and sweet citrus tone balanced the rich velvet intensity of chocolate whilst hazelnuts added to 50

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the overall texture of the bite. For pancakes, the fluffier the better, right? But what was even better was the perfect balance of crispiness on the outside with softness on the inside, loaded to the brim with maple syrup without being too thick or greasy. I can still remember the feeling of cutting through that buttery pile of pancakes topped with fresh strawberries and walnut butter. For people who are trying to eat healthier food, embracing good old-fashioned flavours — which are definitely childhood memories for many — Colonial breakfast is a place to be. ✤

GO: CALL 4009 9999 FOR FURTHER INFORMATION OR TO MAKE A RESERVATION.

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A SIZZLING FIESTA FACT’s Asad Khan enjoys Rio Carnival closer to home at Marriott Marquis City Center Doha Hotel with an extravagant meaty spread paired with everything bright and loud.

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DINING DELIGHT •

or those suffering from the thought of this seemingly never-ending heat, there is only one solution, a fresh breath of Brazilian air coming from Ipanema at Marriott Marquis City Center Doha Hotel’s Rio Carnival Brunch. There has always been this FOMO (fear of missing out) for me whenever photographs from the Rio Carnival, happening in Brazil, would pop up on my Instagram. It is considered one of the biggest, boldest and most colourful events in the Brazilian calendar. People dress up with floral headgear, shimmering make-up, neon hues and everything loud. So, this time when Ipanema returned with its Brazilian celebrations, I couldn’t but head there for the fiesta. Arriving for the Friday brunch I was led into the vaulted opulence of a dining room with floor to ceiling windows completely taking over one side of the restaurant — sun shining brightest, Brazilianthemed music loudest, extravagantly fringed feathers all over the place and the team of Ipanema in clashing prints that varied from exotic animals to birds and leaves. And so it was that I alighted in that sultry, sun-washed city from Doha’s heat and was blissfully ensconced in Brazilian madness. I started my brunch with Causa Limena (mashed citrus potato, shrimp and Peruvian chilli salad) along with a Quinoa Bowl and Burrata Salad. This is the kind of food you want to start your heavy-duty brunch that in no time takes off to a variety of grilled meats and eventually to desserts. You need to start slow, something simple, healthy, vegie-loaded and protein-rich to fact magazine

• DINING DELIGHT

prepare your stomach for what’s about to come. The salads were super savoury and creamy. The butter dressing in the burrata was well done in terms of its consistency. It was viscous enough to not drench the cherry tomatoes yet gave its flavourful smoke to make the salad indulgent. And the cheese was so, so creamy. The blend of contrasting textures — softer outer layer and gooey in the centre — was dreamy. There were a couple of other options for salads as well, all laid down on a buffet table. Ipanema keeps up with its authentic theme of rodizio service. The waiters come to your table with knives and skewers of meat. This is a place for meat lovers! From chicken to lamb to beef, everything cooked to perfection. Now the mains: the serving started with lamb kofta, followed Contra Fillet (rib eye), Alcatra de Wagyu (smoked Wagyu topside), Costela (short ribs), Pernil de Cordeiro (lamb leg), Frango Picante BBQ (chicken drumstick), Asinha de Frango Marinada (chicken wings in herb mustard sauce), Camaroes Grelhado (grilled prawns) and, my very favourite, Abacaxi Grelhado (grilled pineapple with cinnamon sugar) all medium rare, rich in flavour, charred and gnarly on the outside and velveteen in the centre. Short ribs were the standout dish among a variety of cuts and some very close contenders: mouth-wateringly, conversationstoppingly wholesome and dripping in succulent juices. It was so fantastically soft and succulent that as I ate it slowly so to savour the rich, buttery essence, I forgot what it feels like to wrestle with a tough, chewy steak. This was precisely the moment when I knew my afternoon was worth it. Experiencing what genuinely was just butter left on my tongue. One thing is for sure, Ipanema wants you to have the best possible version of grilled steaks and meat. And although, yes, you’re going to get that here, the real downside to eating something so sumptuous is that lowering your standards back to supermarketgrade meat becomes really hard once back home. Although I was down with the meaty affair — I stuck around for 54

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the desserts. From walnut and pecan coffee tart to Tres Leches, peanut butter slice cake, coconut truffles, dry mango chocolate cake, rice pudding, chocolate pudding and so much more. A haven for a sweet tooth. A brilliantly executed dining experience in the centre of Doha where the bar for celebrating international festivals and bringing international flavours has been raised once again. As the Rio Carnival Brunch returns for the next season which will run through into next year, so I will be back at Ipanema. Better a 20-minute drive than a 17-hour flight to Brazil!. ✤

GO: CALL 4419 5000 FOR FURTHER INFORMATION OR TO MAKE A RESERVATION.

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A CHILLEDOUT BRUNCH! FACT’s Asad Khan takes the ferry ride to Banana Island Resort Doha by Anantara to try its Chillout Brunch at Azraq, featuring favourites from every corner of the Earth.

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ON THE MENU •

or me, the weekend can only mean one of two things: a wholesome breakfast on a terrace with my favourite classic Jane Eyre or a fun brunch that is late enough to allow me an extended lie-in, but early enough that the day still stretches ahead of me. But it’s officially autumn now here in Doha, which means it’s time to embrace the sidewalk patio tables and everything sunlight without really being afraid of getting baked in the heat. And what better vehicle for the aforementioned vibes than a brunch on an island, surrounded by the lush blue water. So, when Banana Island Resort Doha by Anantara introduced its Chillout Brunch at Azraq, I couldn’t but take the 25-minute ferry to the island to treat myself with one of the best destination brunches around town. Arriving for the feast, before I was led up to the dining room, I was welcomed with fresh watermelon juice. Soaring windows flooded the space of the restaurant with natural light. This was a place perfect for large families and groups. The most delicious ensemble of stations was found at Azraq. Seemingly it had favourites from every corner of the world: pad Thai, pasta, pizza, burgers, Indian curries, kebabs, grilled meats and even sushi and crabs. I started my brunch with a combination of cold mezze from Al Nahham: a little of Fattoush, Beetroot Moutabel, hummus and Baba Ghanoush on the side. The right amount of pomegranate and olive oil drizzled with zesty lime vinaigrette in the Fattoush really took me by surprise at how much I had missed it for the previous few weeks. Similarly, the hummus was rich in texture and nutty in taste and the Baba Ghanoush was bursting with the intense smoky scent of pulpy eggplant flesh, which was nothing

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• ON THE MENU

but utterly lip-smacking and delicious. This was the moment I knew today had taken a delicious turn, even for a few hours. Now the heavy-duty mains: started with spicy pepperoni and Margherita pizza from the Italian food station, Riva. While, of course, it’s hard to beat the Neapolitan classics in a foreign land, this is as close to the classic pizza as you’re likely to get in this part of the world: thin crust, flavourful sauce and a fresh topping of mozzarella and pepperoni. I could see the chef tossing pizza dough into the oven. Soon came pasta galore. The station offered Creamy Garlic Penne and Arrabiata with choices of toppings and spice levels. The Arrabiata had a very tomatoey flavour, as opposed to traditional marinara sauce, and one can credit that to the simplicity of its preparation that only includes tomato juice, water and pulpy tomatoes. Pro tip: don’t forget to ask for some freshly grated parmesan, basil and some chilli pepper. It’ll enhance the taste to the core. What followed the pasta, before I headed to everything grilled and kebabs, was the pad Thai from the Asian station. I am a sucker for it. I know it’s expected but I can’t seem to bypass it on a menu. And so, I ordered one. What I loved about it: lots of greens, tamarind-heavy sauce, roasted peanuts and crispy fried chicken. I could indulge in pad Thai all day, but, in the interests of research, it was onto the chargrilled kebabs of Al Nahham: chicken, lamb and shish taouk. Served with red-onion salad, a squeeze of lemon, chargrilled green chillis and tomatoes. Everything tender and juicy. I could taste the distinct condiments used in the marination of the meat as it melted in my mouth. The smoked paprika and ginger gave the kebabs a kick, a zesty element of freshness. The brunch also had an assortment of choices for seafood lovers: from tuna to octopus, prawns and mussels. There’s something for everyone, while for the finale, you can choose from a wide assortment of Oriental and western sweets. Furthermore, children can also enjoy a range of activities and events here, specially designed for them, along with the selection of kids’ meals to ensure a unique and distinctive experience for all family members. ✤

GO: CALL 4040 5075 FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO MAKE A RESERVATION. 58

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• DINING DEALS

DELECTABLE DINING Dive into the best culinary offers across the city for November.

ALWADI DOHA – MGALLERY HOTEL COLLECTION AtTEAtude – Tea Lounge and Terrace Treat yourselves to an elegant Afternoon Tea featuring freshlybaked scones, a selection of cut sandwiches, and a mouthwatering range of pastries at QR175 for two people inclusive of refreshing beverages. GO: Call 4009 9666 or WhatsApp 3075 8211 for more information or to make a reservation.

BANYAN TREE DOHA AT LA CIGALE MUSHAIREB Saffron Saffron celebrates Loy Kathrong – Thailand’s Festival of Lights – with a special menu that includes rich and flavourful dishes such as Southern Style Chicken Massaman Curry, Grilled Lobster in Red Curry Sauce, Traditional Shrimp Dip Relish, Steamed Thai Dumplings and more. Savour this festive collection of Thai delicacies from November 19 to 21. GO: Call 4410 3310 or WhatsApp 3992 0808 for more information or to make a reservation.

CROWNE PLAZA HOTEL DOHA — THE BUSINESS PARK Rodizio Celebrate the spirit of Thanksgiving with friends and family over a hearty dinner at Rodizio. Indulge in unlimited cuts of succulent meats cooked in churrasco style. Complete your Thanksgiving dinner with the Festive Cut: churrasco-style 60

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grilled turkey marinated in achiote-citrus for QR270 per person for unlimited cuts. GO: Call 4408 7777 for more information or to make a reservation.

FOUR SEASONS HOTEL DOHA Give thanks and gather together with friends and family for a traditional Thanksgiving feast expertly prepared by the culinary team at Four Seasons. Order your ‘Turkey to Go’, available online at www.shopfsdoha.com, featuring gravy, homemade cranberry sauce and pumpkin or pecan pie. From November 1 to January 6, 2022, priced at QR160 per kg. (Order must be placed 72 hours prior to the pick-up date.) GO: Call 4494 8600 or email res.doha@fourseasons.com for more information or to make a reservation.

FOUR SEASONS HOTEL DOHA Elements Start your Monday on a high note with the ‘Ding N Duck’ trolley experience at Elements. Savour a four-course menu by Head Chef Fuliang Ding featuring dishes such as Papaya Salad and Peking Duck and finish it off with a mouth-watering chocolate sphere. Every Monday from 7pm to 10.30pm. QR340 for half duck and QR 590 for the whole duck experience. GO: Call 4494 8600 or email res.doha@fourseasons.com for more information or to make a reservation.

DINING DEALS •

HOLIDAY INN DOHA — THE BUSINESS PARK Stock Burger Co. Looking for a cool, fun, casual brunch vibe? Check out the Friday Brunch at Stock Burger for free-flowing tipples and unlimited party platters with surprises in store. QR299 per person for unlimited house beverages and speciality platters with pool access at Crowne Plaza Doha — The Business Park. GO: Call 4031 3333 for more information or to make a reservation.

HYATT REGENCY ORYX DOHA Al Nafourah Garden Indulge in succulent, tender kebabs with freshly ground Arabic spices and experience a selection of the finest, flavourful and authentic Middle Eastern melt-in-your mouth, grilled meat complemented with fresh oven-baked bread, garden-fresh local za’atar salad and vermicelli rice for QR99 per person. Every Monday and Wednesday at Kebab Nights. GO: Call 4141 1234 or WhatsApp 6608 5806 or visit hyattrestaurants.com for more information or to make a reservation.

JW MARRIOTT MARQUIS CITY CENTER DOHA Shanghai Club Get on the list and head to the newest Pan-Asian brunch spot in town with ‘Koi Brunch’, every Friday from 12pm to 3pm at Shanghai Club. Take in the scenery while savouring deliciousness prepared by the renowned chefs for QR350 (soft beverages package) and QR450 (enhanced beverages package). GO: Call or WhatsApp 5506 2798 for more information or to make a reservation.

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• DINING DEALS

JW MARRIOTT MARQUIS CITY CENTER DOHA Fuego Business Lunch Take a break from your meetings-packed schedule and try a rich and flavourful business lunch at Fuego, prepared by Chef Oscar. QR95 for a three-course lunch menu or QR79 for two courses. GO: Call or WhatsApp 5506 2798 for more information or to make a reservation.

LA CIGALE HOTEL MANAGED BY ACCOR Yen Shushi Bar All sushi addicts are welcome! All you can eat sushi at Yen Sushi Bar every weekend for QR149 per person. From 12pm to 11pm. GO: Call 4428 8698 for more information or to make a reservation.

MANDARIN ORIENTAL, DOHA Izu Curated by Chef Izu, the menu ‘Mediterranean Flavours’ combines traditional flavours, fresh ingredients and the essence of Mediterranean cooking. Dishes include the famous Gnocchi alla Sorrentina and signature dishes Quinoa Salad with Confit Duck, Seared Langoustine with Gnocchi and Truffled Butter, Whole Roasted Chicken with Foie Gras and Truffle Sauce and finally a delightful Apple Tarte Tatin dessert. The mezzanine floor is open for dinner daily from 6pm to 11pm. GO: Call 4008 8888 or email modoh-reservatons@mohd.com for more information or to make a reservation. 62

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DINING DEALS •

MANDARIN ORIENTAL, DOHA Mozaic The Business Lunch Menu presents a variety of the restaurant’s signature dishes selected by Executive Chef Lam. Dishes include favourites such as Hot and Sour Soup, Kung Pao Tiger Prawns, Sweet and Sour Chicken and Chilled Mango Sago amongst others. QR90 per person for two-courses and QR120 for threecourses. Available from Sunday to Thursday from 12pm to 3pm. GO: Call 4008 8888 or email modoh-reservatons@mohd.com for more information or to make a reservation.

MARRIOTT MARQUIS CITY CENTER DOHA HOTEL New York Steakhouse When it comes to a great after-work meal, there’s nothing better than biting into a 10oz grilled 100% Wagyu beef burger. Piled with foie grass, homemade pickles and secret NYSH sauce on a brioche bun, this massive, messy and tangy signature burger by Chef James Warnica will leave burger fans awestruck. Priced at QR145 per person including two selected beverages, daily from 5pm to 8pm. GO: Call 4419 5510 or WhatsApp 6643 6890 for more information or to make a reservation.

MARRIOTT MARQUIS CITY CENTER DOHA HOTEL Ipanema Revel in the most famous carnival in the world at Ipanema every Friday, at the Rio Carnival Brunch. It’s the place where your taste buds can explore the traditional flavours of Brazilian cuisine, with food stations preparing authentic dishes to order whilst you enjoy a selection of South American-inspired drinks as well as many more delightful surprises. Every Friday from 12pm to 4pm at QR325 per person (food only) and QR435 per person (including selected beverages). GO: Call 4419 5510 or WhatsApp 6643 6890 for more information or to make a reservation.

SHERATON GRAND DOHA Jamavar In the mood for an Indian brunch? Jamavar Doha has the perfect weekend treat for all the Indian street food lovers. Jamavar’s new Khau Galli Brunch offers some of the most lip-smacking street food and a unique potpourri of incredibly satisfying flavours. Head there to tuck into an expansive selection of dishes and an array of mouth-watering desserts to indulge in as well as some refreshing beverages. The Khau Galli brunch is the ultimate way to start your weekend at QR285 per person. GO: Call 4485 3000 or WhatsApp 5594 9701 for more information or to make a reservation.

SHERATON GRAND DOHA La Veranda La Veranda is offering you a journey to Italy with its traditional tastes from Chef Marouane, amid the tranquil setting of the garden, at the Piazza Della Veranda Brunch. Savour authentic street foods from across all regions — such as Piadine, Fritto Misto, Arancini, Braciola Barbecue and more while enjoying the fresh seaside air, live music and backdrop of the magnificent Arabian Gulf. Priced at QR350 per person every Friday from 12.30pm to 4pm. GO: Call 4485 3000 or WhatsApp 5594 9701 for more information or to make a reservation.

THE WESTIN DOHA HOTEL & SPA Hunters Sit down to an all-American feast at Hunters this Thanksgiving. Spend quality time with friends and family and let Westin take care of the rest on November 25 from 6.30pm to 11.30pm. Priced at QR250 per person (soft beverage package) and QR440 per person (enhance beverage package). GO: Call 3359 8514 for more information or to make a reservation. fact magazine

A LITTLE BIT OF ME TIME Pamper yourself with some of the best treatments available this month.

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SPA LISTING •

ALWADI DOHA – MGALLERY HOTEL COLLECTION Ultimate Body Balance at M|SPA Relax your mind, body and soul with a heavenly spa ritual that includes a full-body exfoliation to soften and smooth the skin, followed by a relaxing Balinese massage. The Ultimate Body Balance includes a 30-minute Body scrub and a 45-minute Balinese massage for QR599 per person. Go: Call 4009 9666 or WhatsApp 3075 8211 for more information or to make a reservation.

with the new Rose Healing Ritual which is inspired by ancient Egyptian healing therapies such as Psammotherapy, known as Hot Sand Therapy. Guests are treated to a luxurious exfoliation and pink rose clay wrap followed by a relaxing poultice massage. A bespoke facial using miraculous rose quartz and rose mist will conclude the ritual for ultimate self-care to nourish the skin for everyday wellness. QR1,300 for a 90-minute treatment. Call 4008 8888 or email modoh-spa@mohg.com for more information or to make a reservation.

BANYAN TREE DOHA AT LA CIGALE MUSHAIREB

SHERATON GRAND DOHA

Sanctuary for the Senses Banyan Tree Spa offers guests a Sanctuary for the Senses – a place for physical, mental and spiritual renewal. The spa focuses on a non-clinical and holistic approach based on traditional Asian healing therapies. GO: Call 4410 3334 or email spa.doha@banyantree.com for more information or to make a reservation.

Relax, Rejuvenate, Recharge Awaken your senses and enhance your inner relaxation with tailored massages after an intense fitness session or just to relax. Swedish, Deep Tissue Sports and Combination massages are available for 30, 60 and 90 minutes; Anti-Stress Neck and Shoulder and Foot Reflexology available for 30 and 60 minutes. Prices start from QR350. GO: Call 4485 4600 for more information or to make a reservation.

FOUR SEASONS HOTEL DOHA Triple Lift with Remodelling Face Treatment from Biologique Recherche After a long summer, indulge in a refreshing Triple Lift with Remodelling Face Treatment at The Spa. The 120-minute ritual for QR2,200 is enhanced with a state-of-the-art Face Remodelling machine for an exfoliating, repairing and toning treatment. Designed for mature skin, it leaves the skin on your face, neck and chest plumped and lifted. GO: Call 4494 8600 or email res.doha@fourseasons.com for more information or to make a reservation.

FOUR SEASONS HOTEL DOHA Men’s Body Ritual Pamper yourself with a relaxing ritual combination of scrub and back massage at The Spa for QR1,075. The 90-minute ritual begins with exfoliation with Platinum, Meteorite and Volcanic rock. The treatment continues with a back and neck massage to work on your bespoke problematic areas. It concludes with the awakening of the luxurious body spritz and hair fragrance to leave you exuding impeccable style and confidence. GO: Call 4494 8600 or email res.doha@fourseasons.com for more information or to make a reservation.

HYATT REGENCY ORYX DOHA Club Olympus Experience the ultimate in comfort, tranquillity and wellness. Indulge 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. Call 4141 1230 or email clubolympus.oryxdoha@hyatt.com for more information or to make a reservation.

MANDARIN ORIENTAL, DOHA Rose Healing Ritual Experience the comfort of warm quartz and rose infusions

MARRIOTT MARQUIS CITY CENTER DOHA HOTEL Saray Hour Savour a pampering spa experience during weekdays and enjoy significant savings on selected signature treatments. Holistic massage for QR250 instead of QR460, Balinese and Swedish massage for QR300 instead of QR480, and Sports massage for QR350 instead of QR500. From Sunday to Thursday, 10am to 3pm. Call 4419 6090 for more information or to make a reservation.

MARRIOTT MARQUIS CITY CENTER DOHA HOTEL Afternoon Bliss Looking to spend some me-time or quality time with friends and family? Book one of the revitalising 90-minute spa treatments and enjoy a decadent afternoon tea experience at West End Café & Patisserie, from 10am to 10pm. Call 4419 6090 for more information or to make a reservation.

THE WESTIN DOHA HOTEL & SPA Dermaplaning at Heavenly Spa Dermaplaning safely scrapes off the top layer of skin and removes peach fuzz and dead skin cells hence performing deep exfoliation for QR800 for a 45-minute session. Call 4492 1682 or WhatsApp 6686 6854 or email heavenlyspa. doha@westin.com for more information or to make a reservation.

THE WESTIN DOHA HOTEL & SPA Microblading by Sibille at Heavenly Spa Combining world-class knowledge and the skills of the brow and make-up industry, Heavenly Spa by Westin offers a wide range of brow treatments and products. With more than 15 years of international experience in the world of beauty and wellness, Sibille brings a wealth of knowledge across different market sectors and brands. Microblading costs QR2,750 and Combination Brows costs QR3,000. GO: Call 4492 1682 or WhatsApp 6686 6854 or email heavenlyspa. doha@westin.com for more information or to make a reservation. fact magazine

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LUXURY THRILLS

TRAVEL •

The child in you will never grow old you know! FACT’s Layal El-Mahmoud takes a dive back in time for a chance to re-live every child’s perfect adventure, only better, courtesy of a most generous invitation from Yas Island Abu Dhabi.

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• TRAVEL

eople gasp in awe when I tell them that in my 17 years in the region, I have never visited the United Arab Emirates. In October of this year, despite the unpleasant travel restrictions that continue to tail us, Yas Island made it happen and it was awesome! The flight was a piece of cake, even the unexpected PCR that we needed to do at Abu Dhabi International Airport was super quick and free of charge; we were out in no time to receive the warmest welcome from our accompanying driver. The arrival at W Abu Dhabi - Yas Island was eye catching to say the least. A shiny extraterrestrial structure calls on you from afar. Large glass doors slide open to reveal a modern lobby with a unique style. After a swift check-in, we headed to the elevator and glided up to the eighth floor. Two connected bedrooms, equipped with five-star amenities to deliver top quality comfort, would be our home for the next three days. The welcoming messages that we read on the mirrors suggested a casual and friendly approach and instantly formed a memory imprinted in our hearts. Three nights spent in luxury, three breakfasts served to perfection, and three dinners that translated premium culinary talent into pure gastronomic joy. Thumbs up! The three days, on the other hand, were packed with adventure and adrenalin overload. On day one, the outside world ceased to exist at Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi. From Scooby Doo to Tom & Jerry and The Flintstones to Gotham City and The Hall of Justice in the company of amazing DC superheroes. An impressive entertainment world full of thrilling rides, amazing characters, and great visual aesthetics. I will never forget the cheesy rollercoaster at Tom & Jerry’s house. A truly miraculous space that is extremely organised and welcoming. Before you leave, grab a token from one of the many WBW souvenir shops to keep the memories alive. The fun on day two was wet and loud at one of the world’s biggest water parks. The Yas Waterworld Abu Dhabi experience was a great pleasure indeed! A huge space that will entertain your family for a full day, at the end of which you will not want to leave. A rush of happiness hormones takes over your body with the first slide and, like an addiction, you find yourself repeatedly climbing the same staircase asking for more. The service inside is five-star, we booked a cabana by the beach-like pool offering four long chairs with four towels, a mini fridge with complimentary water bottles and, most importantly, a digital safe. Anything and everything beach-related is right there in case you forget an item or have an emergency. On day three, we made sure the packing was done and nothing was left behind. After breakfast, we visited the front office for a quick check-out before heading to Ferrari World Abu Dhabi and taking advantage of every minute to harvest the maximum roller-coaster excitement before dashing to the airport. At Ferrari World Abu Dhabi no one holds back a scream of pure joy. Don’t you dare walk away from the Flying Aces or the Formula Rossa, AKA the fastest roller coaster in the world. You’ll find a wild array of rides for all ages and safety is the number one priority. If you are a Formula One fan, try changing the tire 68

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of an F1 car and beat my 14.6 seconds. With a direct connection to Yas Mall, Ferrari World is the utmost family destination any day of the week. What a long weekend! Yas Island hats off to you. You have created the absolute wholesome family luxury entertainment destination. I know for a FACT that my family will never forget this trip. Offer your loved ones the best gift a family can ever enjoy together or plan a thrilling get away with friends at Yas Island Abu Dhabi. ✤

GO: VISIT WWW.YASISLAND.AE FOR FURTHER INFORMATION.

TRAVEL •

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• EXHIBITION FOCUS

CONTEMPORARY WORLD OF INTERIORS Almana Maples recently showed their modern design offerings at the Build Your House Exhibition, a new format expo dedicated to Qatar’s construction industry featuring fitout, renovation needs and interior design.

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EXHIBITION FOCUS •

ow that summer is behind us and autumn is almost here: schools have reopened, so have the offices that were allowing work from home because of Covid-19 restrictions. It’s time to get back to the daily grind after gallivanting outdoors or abroad. Since it’s time to be back in your space, it’s also time to ensure that space is aligned with your lifestyle. Be it the cubicle in the office or your kitchen or living room at home. For new homes or refurbishments, interior design can be a bit intimidating and confusing because once the furniture pieces and aesthetics have entered the home, they stay there. A piece of furniture can easily change everything around you. As a painting is meant to be looked at, art to be appreciated and fashion to be worn – furniture is meant to be lived in and with. It directs how you interact with your environment and influences your moods in everyday life. Even in the most mundane moments, a good piece of furniture can provide you the comfort you seek. It’s an undeniable energy. Almana Maples’ furnishing division, within the Almana Group of companies, recently exhibited at the Build Your House Exhibition. A cream-coloured, L-shaped sofa paired with green cushions and a long contemporary kitchen counter in the background pretty much took over the kiosk space with its minimalistic statement. But it was the finishing and detailing that gave away the proficiency of Almana Maples and its team of architects and interior designers.

Slight irregularities were embraced making the look both synergistic and authentic. The knowledgeable team from Almana briefed the numerous visitors on how customised contemporary yet traditional furniture pieces take over their aesthetics whilst making sure that the client’s needs and vision are met in the best possible way. Almana Maples provides personalised services with expert carpenters and upholsters on board. These range from merging innovative design with technical adaptability and modern aesthetics to responsiveness to budgeting, scheduling and instalment of the products. The soft fitouts, including wardrobes, kitchens, furniture, sliding systems and swinging doors, are available at its showrooms. The organisation represents a rich list of products exclusively from European brands in Qatar including SieMatic, Minotti, Rimadesio, moooi, MDF IT, Glas Italia, Alessi, kreon, Lab23, Dorn Bracht, Brintons, Rubelli, Sahco, Dedar Milano, Armani, Lab Italy and Admonter. Instead of offering separate products, Almana banks on its concepts. From ceiling layout to flooring it’s a one-stopshop and is all finished and imported internationally. Almana Maples also specialises in customised solutions for luxury hotels, corporate offices, and residences allowing clients to visualise their decorated space and purchase exactly what they like or have a vision for. Unlike mass-produced products, here it’s more about artisanal pieces that combine contemporary, futuristic technology and approach with local tastes and lifestyles. The average time for processing the orders is about four months from the time the order is placed until the items are installed and handed over. ✤

GO: CALL 4448 9979 FOR MORE INFORMATION. fact magazine

• ARTS & CULTURE

A MAN FOR ALL SEASONS Born in Venezuela and raised in Lebanon, as Haytham Sharrouf interplays between different genres and mediums of art, he speaks to FACT about his journey and what and who inspires his creative process.

aytham Sharrouf is a man for all seasons, architect, designer and visual artist, he interplays between different genres instantly shifting his focus from something known to exploring uncharted territories and comes up with visually challenging and contemporary art pieces. You cannot categorise his work into one particular type — his pieces include oil paintings, furniture design, digital art and well-worked impressionistic models and centre pieces. Wearing a blush pink P-Cap, Sharrouf works quickly, applying maroon to large areas of the canvas, then counterbalances it with strokes of grey and shades of blue, pausing just occasionally to take a look from afar at how the shades are coming together. For him, it’s never about finishing one specific stroke, but about the whole picture. His curiosity about human autonomy is reflected in his pieces and takes the viewer on an intervening layer of silence. The dripping paint, webbings and patterns catch your eye instantly, but how those eyes travel, interpret and see, is pretty much individual and that’s the beauty of Haytham’s art. We discovered what inspires him, his contemporary style and expression, and the narrative he intends putting forward with his art. What inspires your art and who’s your favourite artist? My inspiration relies on my state of mind. I believe we, as humans, pass-through different phases in our lives, and I love to crown each phase through an art practice. It could be painting, designing or performing. But the word connection has something so special for me, because interests and inspiration have to deal with what we are connected with at certain stages in our lives. I really love Marina Abramović, a Serbian conceptual and performance artist, philanthropist, writer and filmmaker’s work. She explores body art, endurance and feminist art. She is one of the artists that inspires me through her silence and feelings and especially when silence becomes very loud. How do you think architecture, interior design and visual arts come together? Architecture has been always a major view if you want to study about history and culture. And interior design reflects our individuality as humans in a certain space. Coming to visual art, it is something very personal and it’s a narrative diary for an artist. So, in my case, I have the luxury of translating my ideas and my narrative into different mediums and disciplines. My academic studies in interior architecture and graphic design

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ARTS & CULTURE •

deepened my sight of how I perceive the city and what it offers me. I’m interested in surveying the affect of architecture on humans, and how to implement architectural concepts, lines and forms on the human association and reciprocal relations. As a user of these spaces, I’m interested in becoming actively involved in a process of redesigning and transforming the context of landmark buildings into models that go beyond the traditional boundaries of painting, architecture, graphic art and installation. What’s something that is essential to your creative process? Being spiritual and calm is essential to my creative process. I have worked many times on pieces where I didn’t feel much connected with my inner self and it gave me a completely different outcome than when I feel I’m connected with a high sense of spirituality. Since you're an architect and an interior designer, how do you think light plays a role in setting up the place and art installations? Light and Shadow: Isolation and Interaction. Humans need light and interaction to stay sane. Without light, we lose our sense of time and without interaction, we become consumed with loneliness and boredom. With this sensory deprivation comes unimaginable spiritual psychological affects, via my art installations. How has your work evolved over time, do you see a significant change in how you portray elements and concepts? Well, to be honest, joining Artist In Residence in Qatar at Doha Fire Station, made me feel more responsible for my choices and the concepts I want to work on, because I am at a stage where my projects and concepts are being studied at several universities and are being used for different design applications. So, I believe I’m evolving with time and I believe I’m creating a great archive for all my achievements, ones that are publicly announced and ones that I’m waiting for the right time to announce.

What advice would you give to young artists who want to pursue painting as a full-time profession? Allow yourself to be different, because the creative process needs an extraordinary creative life style and way of thinking, and never try to copy other artists. Always think of creating your own line because your line is part of your identity and narrative. ✤ fact magazine

• ENTERTAINMENT

BIG SCREEN Squid Game Need to Know:

Squid Game is a Korean drama show that follows the main character Seong Gi-Hun, a divorced and jobless middle-aged man, who is neck deep in copious amounts of debt. He gains the opportunity to take part in a mysterious game and win large amounts of money. However, the seemingly innocent game quickly turns deadly as it becomes a race to survive.

Creators: Hwang Dong-hyuk Cast: Lee Jung-Jae, Park Hae-Soo, Oh Young-Soo, Jung Ho-Yeon, Tripathi Anupam

Why Is It Worth Watching?

This series has to be one of the best shows that has been released recently. It’s thrilling and exciting with excellent cinematography and well-thought-out characters and scenes. Everything about this show is captivating and you can’t help but feeling attached to the characters and their situations. The first episode starts with us being introduced to Seong Gi-Hun (Lee Jung-Jae) who is struggling with debt, which is a common problem amongst South Koreans. He learns of the opportunity to join a game and at the end comes the promise of billions of wones (Korean currency). In the game he meets fellow competitors Kang Sae-Byeok (Jung Ho-Yeon), Ali Abdu (Tripathi Anupam), Cho Sang-Woo (Park Hae-Soo) and many others, all looking for a way out of their debts. The simple Korean children's games they are made to play come at a high price when failure means death. Most definitely a must-watch!

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The simple Korean children's games they are made to play come at a high price when failure means death.

Jack Whitehall: Travels with My Father Need to Know:

Travels with My Father is a comedy series, with the fifth and final season having been recently released. In it we follow the comedian Jack Whitehall as he drags his elderly father Michael along on his adventures around the world. Taking him to Thailand, Cambodia, Germany, Ukraine, the US, Australia and a few others along the way. In this final season we see them explore the United Kingdom as they embark on their last adventure together.

Creators: Jack Whitehall Cast: Jack Whitehall, Michael Whitehall, Hilary Whitehall

Why Is It Worth Watching?

The show is lighthearted and fun and, let us not forget, absolutely hilarious. We as the audience get to learn about the different places they visit as they meet local people and emerge themselves in their culture. From the funny and caring dynamic between the father and son duo to the comical situations they put each other in, it’s exactly how all family trips should be, fun, exciting and absolutely chaotic. However, at the end of each adventure the bond between father and son grows exponentially, also just as it should be. In this last adventure, they explore the UK and re-cap some of the best/worst moments they experienced on this journey. The perfect show to watch to get in a couple of good laughs after a long day. 74

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ENTERTAINMENT •

ON THE RECORD

FULLY BOOKED

FICTION

A Calling for Charlie Barnes By Joshua Ferris

JAZZ

INDIE/ALTERNATIVE/ROCK

Love For Sale By Lady Gaga & Tony Bennet

Let Me Do One More By Illuminati Hotties

We really wanted to love this, it’s such a brave album for Tony Bennet who’s managed to far outlive many of his contemporaries and, with this album, took the Guinness World Record for the oldest person to release an album of new material. Admittedly, the richness of his voice is dimmed and there is a gentle rasp that audiences of the 1950s and ‘60s would not recognise but consumers of this album will surely be listening kindly. Meanwhile Lady Gaga, she of the meat dresses and early hits such as Poker Face and Bad Romance, has very definitely come of age, her voice attaining a superb depth and character that is showcased fabulously on this collection of standards. To be honest, the whole album is infinitely listenable. It’s the kind of music that just puts a smile on your face. Standouts include title track Love For Sale with its slightly dubious subject matter; I Concentrate on You a classic love story that brings a joining of these two amazing voices; and So In Love in which Tony Bennett, singing solo, harks back to the crooner of old. Dear God, the man’s 95 years old and, earlier this year, revealed that he is suffering from Alzheimer’s disease but, boy, he can still hold a tune. And, with the indomitable Lady Gaga joining him, we wanted to love it and we did.

So, if you’ve never heard of Illuminati Hotties, you’re in good company. We hadn’t either until we started looking for new music to bring you this month and stumbled across this. According to Wikipedia, they are “an American indie rock band from Los Angeles, California, created and fronted by producer, mixer and audio engineer Sarah Tudzin.” As you can tell, Ms Tudzin is a woman of many talents whose creative force led to issues with a previous record label. She formed Illuminati Hotties to showcase her varied production capabilities and this is the project’s third album. The opening track, Pool Hopping, is a bit misleading in its upbeat poppiness and, if you only listen to this, you’ll be missing out because the rest of the album is a journey through the vaguely trippy Protector to the outright beauty of Threatening Each Other Re: Capitalism and UVVP (feat Buck Meek) which seems to have an almost sixties sound. To be honest, we couldn’t, on initial listening, choose a favourite. This album is an amalgamation of so many different sounds and styles that hearing it is almost an education that we’ll be going back to time and again. If you’re looking for something a bit (read a lot) different, very new and fresh, give this a whirl. You won’t be sorry you did.

A Calling for Charlie Barnes is like a departure from Joshua Ferris’ debut Then We Came to the End in terms of the return of the comicexistential themes. Why do we work is the question that is raised throughout the narration but instead of an office setting, like his previous novel, here the story takes place in Charlie Barnes’ basement: a place where he has been for the previous few years trying to get his business to take off. The narrator, who is Charlie’s son Jake Barnes, explains him as a ‘big fraud’ as he manages funds of retirees and plays deviously on their trust before getting the news that he has cancer.

FICTION

Crossroads

by Jonathan Franzen Jonathan Frazen characters are small but the stories are of substance. His characters aren’t usually from metropolises like LA or New York but from marginal cities, more countryside, closer to nature. Set in 1971, Franzen takes us back in time and explores the history of generations with humour and warmth. The intensely absorbing novel focuses on the characters’ emotions, experiences and desires. The first installment of a planned trilogy, it follows the story of the Hildebrandt family, headed by Russ, in the backdrop of the Vietnam war. Morality, integrity and purpose take the spotlight as Franzen questions if we can ever escape our selfishness. Each character is a main, whilst parallel stories are intertwined together with complexity. fact magazine

RETURN OF THE CLASSICS Defined silhouettes take on an avant-garde style for a sophisticated new collection. 76

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FASHION FOCUS •

assimo Dutti AW21 Limited Edition collection for men and women presents values typical of the brand’s creations with a modern and avant-garde point of view. Flashbacks that recall moments we instantly link to a period of change through many of its greatest hits. At a time when the polarization of aesthetics is evident, minimalism and romanticism coexist in the women’s collection. Femininity returns to the forefront with delicate and exclusive fabrics, accentuated with defined silhouettes in a colour palette that draws inspiration from nature. Urban style is on trend as Massimo Dutti presents sophisticated looks with a focus on structured materials, nods to craftsmanship and large doses of colour. Coats are a must this season, while flowing blouses with ties, dresses, high boots and high sandals add a cosmopolitan twist. The men’s collection introduces subtle allusions to reinterpretations that go beyond formal pieces. The result is a collection of looks that goes beyond the search for individuality or comfort, with the idea of being different becoming a declaration of intent, almost an act of rebellion. An exercise in simplicity and subtlety: fashion and architecture meet again in a series of minimal designs, perfectly flowing silhouettes and neutral colours. A cosmopolitan man whose style is the perfect blend of casual minimalism and updated sophistication, a man who knows how to take simple aesthetics to sophisticated contexts, through the combination of garments and accessories with an urban feel that will result in unique styles. ✤ fact magazine

• FASHION FOCUS

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• FOR HER

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HASK Curl Defining Cream Curls, coils, spirals…it’s no secret to those who have them that their hair sometimes has a mind of its own. Nevertheless, whatever the curl pattern, it only makes sense to use products that are designed with these special hair textures in mind. To look their best, curls should be handled with care. Keep them in shape with the Curl Defining Cream. The lightweight, humidity-proof formula works to enhance your curl pattern, leaving hair touchably-soft and defined.

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Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hyaluronic Acid Moisturizer Neutrogena has upgraded its well-known lightweight and hydrating gel moisturiser with SPF 50 to help you stay protected from sun exposure and environmental aggressors daily. Keep your skin looking supple and hydrated every day. The unique water gel-cream formula absorbs quickly, like a gel, but has the long-lasting moisturising power of a cream to quench your extra-dry skin’s thirst. It contains hyaluronic acid, a hydrator found naturally in the skin, that attracts moisture and locks it in. And it’s wearable under make-up!

M.A.C Aute Couture x Rosalía The M·A·C Aute Couture Collection, made with Rosalía, features a full range of products for the face, eyes lips and, of course, nails. This range is for those who love to live boldly. With four different shades, the Extra Dimension Skinfinish palette adds the perfect glow to skin. The liquid-powder highlighter, with prismatic reflections, is designed to sculpt and highlight your face, leaving a luminous, well-defined finish. The creamy powder formula lasts up to 10 hours.

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FOR HIM •

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• MATTER OF FACT

What We’re (Still) Talking About About A Boy

The Gun Question

Humanity Wins

Breast Cancer Awareness Month is over – though, of course, it’s important all year round. Now it’s the turn of the boys with Movember. Men around the world will be growing the types of facial hair not popular since the 1970s in a bid to draw attention to men’s health issues such as testicular and prostate cancers and men’s suicide. Admittedly since the advent of the trend for hipster facial fuzz and the rise of working from home during the pandemic, there seem to be far fewer clean-shaven chaps about than in previous years. But this month their numbers will decline even further

There’s been outrage, upset and sorrow following the tragic film set accident in which actor Alec Baldwin was accidentally handed a gun containing live ammunition and fatally shot cinematographer Halyna Hutchins. Production on the film has been halted, some say permanently, and the actor himself is said to be devastated and has retreated to his home to ‘realign himself’. Meanwhile there have been many questions about how the gun came to be loaded with live ammo – apparently crew members had been using it to shoot tin cans! And considerable concerns about the general attitude to

Many people have followed the story of the dogs of La Palma in the Canary Islands trapped on a roof surrounded by boiling hot lava from the recent continuing volcanic eruption. Humanity at its best stepped in to make sure the hapless canines were fed and watered by drone, while plans were made for a dramatic and risky rescue potentially using a drone to net and transport the animals across 400m of lava. Even the tiniest mistake or struggle could have meant almost certain death for the dogs. Then, at the last minute, it seems a mysterious bunch of animal activists stepped in and took matters into their

as men grow (or, at least, attempt to grow) above-the-lip whiskers, some of which will be worn in thoroughly outlandish styles. We’re all for a bit of brotherly love and the boys in the office might well chuck out their razors in support of this very worthy cause. But, a word to the wise gentlemen, unless you’re from a region where the tickling tache is de rigeuer, the girls in the office are singular in their opinion that, once Movember’s done, what they refer to as ‘upper-lip slugs’ must also bid farewell.

safety on this set where crew members had allegedly walked out earlier over safety concerns. There is already talk of a new set of guidelines pertaining to weapons on film sets. Probably rightly so. There may even be a ban on weapons that are capable of firing live ammunition. All good stuff. But as one Facebook poster pointed out – there is an awful lot of outrage about someone being shot on a movie set with what was supposed to be a prop gun, yet kids are regularly killed in schools by people carrying real guns and nothing seems to be happening to stop it.

own hands. As the drone team routinely scanned the rooftop for their potential charges they were met with an empty space, with no dogs in sight and merely a human footprint and a note bearing the legend “Stay strong La Palma! The dogs are fine.” It was signed The A Team, in homage to the 1980s’ TV show team who attained the seemingly impossible. The local paper has since reported that the dogs are indeed safe and well, but dramatic details of the rescue cannot be shared as it involved the team entering an exclusion zone illegally. We love this.

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LIVE IT UP AT CHOICES

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