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08 LISTEN UP
AND 20 ARTS CULTURE
22 DINING DEALS
CONTENTS 27
43 STAYCATION SPOTLIGHT
FALL FASHION AND BEAUTY
67 FOOD DIARIES
71
FOODIE CORNER
75
ON THE MENU
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• THE EDITOR
HELLO FALL FASHION
“
Fashion is the armour to survive the reality of everyday life.” — Bill Cunningham
W
FACT Magazine Qatar Edition • SEPTEMBER 2020 VOLUME 07, ISSUE 3
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER GREG HUGHES PUBLISHERS EDWARD SMITH RAMI KHALIL PUBLISHING DIRECTOR CHIRINE HALABI
e finally made it through what felt like 7192 days of summer and a summer unlike any other that we have experienced before. Living through a global pandemic has certainly had its challenges but there is light at the end of the tunnel and we’re excited to see life return to
some sort of normalcy.
Of course, September will bring the humidity and we can’t help but feel a sense of celebration here at FACT as restaurants have re-opened and we slowly adjust to the ‘new normal.’ As we look to the season ahead and the start of autumn, our main feature this month provides an A to Z of Fashion and Beauty. Turn to page 27 and
ART DIRECTOR SYED MUHAMMED RAIHAN SENIOR GRAPHIC DESIGNER JYOTI RAWAT PHOTOGRAPHY SUDHI KOLLAROTH PRODUCTION & DISTRIBUTION AJIT KUMAR NEIL MAHMOOD
brush up on your baking, acids, parabens and more with 26 beauty words you need to know the meaning of. We’ve also plucked terminology that you can find all
ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES chirine@fact-magazine.com
over the fashion scene - season in, season out - for you to impress your style tribe this FW20. If you’re looking for a new wardrobe, the dunhill Autumn Winter 2020 collection should provide some menswear inspiration in September’s Fashion Focus (p55). We’re celebrating food again this month and we’ve got three great food reviews for you. Our Food Diaries come from IDAM (p67), our Foodie Corner is a treat meal from Crossroads Kitchen (p71) and On The Menu requires a visit to Mezzo (p75). In other foodie news, we also have an interview with Executive Chef, Binit Pandey from Centara West Bay Hotel & Residences Doha (p79). We’ve also got your monthly beauty, tech and entertainment fix. So read on and let
DISTRIBUTION DAR AL-SHARQ PRINTED BY AL ANAN PRINTING PRESS, OMAN CONTIBUTORS CRAIG FERRIMAN DAVID TAPLEY ELANUR SENGEL SAMIA QAIYUM
us know what you think…
Editor
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. 4
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Enjoy unprecedented 360° panoramic views, kick back and savor the legendary sunsets over an authentic Asian menu with crafted beverages for a delightful Friday afternoon. QAR 240 including soft beverages QAR 360 including selected beverages Every Friday 2.00 pm to 7.00 pm Shanghai Club Level 43
Advance reservation is required. For reservations please call, 4429 5000. JW MARRIOTT MARQUIS CITY CENTER DOHA Conference Center Street, West Bay, Doha
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• CONNECT
@factqatarmagazine
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A newly-launched dedicated instagram page for FACT Qatar magazine, keep up with our posts and stories for the best behind-the-scenes photos from food shoots, local events and all things awesome in the Doha and beyond, plus insights from the FACT team.
FACEBOOK FACT Qatar 21.169k followers Keep up with all things Qatar as the FACT team posts the latest competitions, happenings and everything we’re getting up to for the monthly magazine, all for our readers!
Your one-stop culture fix for life in Qatar. First for local talent, arts, fashion, dining and all the coolest events in Doha. We’ve got tech, travel, motoring and exclusive interviews with all the industry and celebrity-world movers and shakers too. Get your copy of FACT Qatar in local supermarkets now
“
“Style is something each of us already has, all we need to do is find it.” — Diane von Furstenberg
ISSUU.COM FACT Qatar 92,600 reads of the July/August 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.
OUR FAVE FEATURE • THE A TO Z OF FASHION AND BEAUTY P27 •
#FACTMAGAZINE #FACTQATAR #FACTMIDDLEEAST #FOODARTSCULTURETRAVEL #THEONLYWAYISFACT 6
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FOR BOOKING CALL
4009 5520
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• LISTEN UP
CROWNE PLAZA DOHA WEST BAY WINS 2020 TRIPADVISOR TRAVELLERS’ CHOICE AWARD The hotel has been recognised among the ‘Best of the Best Hotels’, based on exceptional traveller reviews. Crowne Plaza Doha West Bay, today announced its recognition as the 2020 Travellers’ Choice Best of the Best award winner, based on a full year of TripAdvisor’s reviews and ratings. Award winners exemplify traveller’s ultimate favourites and represent the top 10% of overall hospitality businesses around the globe. Mr. Najib Nasser, General Manager at Crowne Plaza Doha West Bay, said: “We are thrilled to be acknowledged in the top 10% of the hotels worldwide within two years from our hotel’s rebranding. A heartfelt thank you to our guests and clients for their continuous support and love. This achievement would not have been possible without the fabulous team of colleagues who deliver true hospitality with their relentless efforts and laser focus on guest satisfaction.” “Winners of the 2020 Travellers’ Choice Awards should be proud of this distinguished recognition,” said Kanika Soni, Chief Commercial Officer at TripAdvisor. “Although it’s been a challenging year for travel and hospitality, we want to celebrate our partners’ achievements. Award winners are beloved for 8
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their exceptional service and quality. Not only are these winners well deserving, they are also a great source of inspiration for travellers and diners as the world begins to venture out again.” Crowne Plaza Doha West Bay, a prestigious business hotel located in the West Bay area, is a part of the IHG Group under the Crowne Plaza Hotels and Resorts with a brand promise of “making business travel work.” The hotel provides various business-ready services, a sleep advantage program, fast and fresh food 24/7, personalised meeting requirement assistance and adheres to the IHG Clean Promise - the hotel’s adjustment to new travel norms and expectations with enhanced guest experiences, and redefined cleanliness. ✤
GO: EMAIL RESERVATIONS.CPDOHAWB@IHG.COM OR CALL +974 4019 8853 FOR BOOKINGS AND MORE INFORMATION.
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• LISTEN UP
HAKKASAN DOHA RELAUNCHES ITS SATURDAY DIM SUM LUNCH EXPERIENCE Award-winning Cantonese restaurant Hakkasan Doha has reopened its doors and brought back their unique Saturday lunch focusing on the tradition of dim sum. Being part of their signature dishes since the very beginning, the Chinese ritual of dim sum always played a crucial role for Hakkasan. Dim sum means “touching the heart” in Cantonese, and its tradition has developed over hundreds of years. The Dim Sum Lunch engages with the unique elements of Hakkasan’s personality. Calmness, tranquillity and humility are translated into a simple, elegant and vibrant experience. All dim sums from the exclusive Saturday lunch menu are served three pieces per basket for QAR 98 for three baskets or five baskets for QAR 138, with the menu featuring the famous Grilled Shanghai dumpling, Roast duck with pumpkin, Scallop Shui mai with tobiko caviar, Seabass with ginger and spring onion and the mouth-watering Prawn and scallop cheung fun. Hakkasan brings a modern interpretation of authentic Cantonese cuisine, taking inspiration from both contemporary and ancient China. The Dim Sum Lunch experience is a great way to discover Hakkasan Doha’s award-winning dishes and signature favourites. Hakkasan has always been committed to providing its customers 10
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with a unique experience that will keep the guests coming back for more. Founded in 2001, Hakkasan celebrates Chinese cuisine through traditional techniques, the finest ingredients and contemporary flair. Each kitchen is led by a talented chef whose passion lies in creating uniquely rooted yet modern dishes. With international outposts in some of the world’s most vibrant cities, Hakkasan’s menu is a culinary balance of signature dishes as well as an Only At Collection created exclusively for each different location. Set in the gardens of the opulent St Regis Hotel, Hakkasan Doha features two private dining rooms as well as an intimate lounge. Lunch is available on Saturdays from 1pm to 4pm. ✤
GO: EMAIL RESERVATION.HAKKASAN@STREGIS.COM OR CALL +974 4446 0170 FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION.
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• LISTEN UP
THE ALL-NEW OPEN-TOP V8 FERRARI ARRIVES IN QATAR The F8 Spider is showcased at Alfardan Sports Motors showroom. Alfardan Sports Motors, the official dealer of Ferrari in Qatar has announced the arrival of the F8 Spider, the new generation droptop sports car, to its Ferrari showroom in Doha. The Ferrari F8 Spider was designed in parallel with the F8 Tributo Berlinetta and features the Prancing Horse’s compact and efficient RHT (Retractable Hard Top) which influences the lines of a model that leads its category. The F8 Spider is the latest addition to an exclusive and prestigious bloodline of open-top V8 cars begun with the 308 GTS in 1977. It is less extreme than the 488 Pista Spider but sportier than the 488 Spider which it replaces in the range. Consequently, the F8 Spider sets a new benchmark for the “en plein air” sports car in terms of usable performance and exceptional handling, providing an incredibly rewarding driving experience. It excels in merging handling dynamics with surprising in-car comfort. This Ferrari spider thus combines the characteristics of the most lauded 8-cylinder engine in history with unparalleled driving pleasure. The F8 Spider replaces the 488 Spider and improves on all aspects of its specifications. Aside from the fact that its engine delivers an extra 50 cv, the new Ferrari is 20 kg lighter than its predecessor. It weighs just 20 kg more than the more extreme 488 Pista Spider. The F8 Spider is significantly more aerodynamically 12
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efficient, too and features the new 6.1 version of the Side-Slip Angle Control system. In the automotive world, Ferrari’s V8 engine is seen as the very epitome of sportiness and driving pleasure. This is particularly the case when it is mid-rear-mounted in a two-seater. Ferrari has been honing the scope of this architecture to perfection for over four decades as it optimally balances weight for perfect handling dynamics. Designed by the Ferrari Styling Centre, the F8 Spider continues the direction embarked upon with the F8 Tributo which acted as a bridge to a new design language that will continue to emphasise Ferrari’s key characteristics of high performance and extreme aerodynamic efficiency. The F8 Spider has taken state-of-the-art aerodynamic solutions and innovations from Ferrari’s GT and Challenge racing experience and moulded them into the production mid-rearengined drop-top that makes the highest level of performance accessible to drivers of all abilities. The car is now available for the viewership of the brand’s esteemed customers and prospective owners. ✤
GO: CALL +974 4420 8788 FOR MORE INFORMATION.
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• LISTEN UP
GATHER AND FEAST AT THE NEWLY LAUNCHED MULBERRY BRUNCH The Weekend Roast launches at the cosy neighbourhood eatery, Mulberry Tavern, Hilton The Pearl. Providing a unique offering available both Friday and Saturday, from 1pm to 4pm enjoy an array of modern gastropub dishes, sharing platters and traditional British roast, in Mulberry Tavern’s sociable feel-good setting. Ideal for sharing, the leisurely Mulberry Brunch features four platters of duck rillette, pickled onions and gherkins with sourdough bread; homemade cured salmon, fennel, apple and lemon gel; the creamy Italian Puglia Burrata with green chilli, truffle and pistachio or Spinach Salad with green apple ribbon, Shelton blue cheese and honey dressing. Main courses are a roast lover’s dream and include three types of meat - slow roast beef slices, tender roast lamb and raised farm poultry. Using the finest quintessentially British ingredients, sides include traditional Yorkshire pudding, roasted vegetables and creamy mashed potato, all topped off with a natural gravy jus. To accommodate vegetarian diners, an additional menu has been developed by the Mulberry culinary team to satisfy those brunch cravings. Dishes include beetroot textures, avocado, goats cheese and walnut, roasted roots with Worcestershire 14
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sauce and cumin, and roasted cauliflower with yoghurt and dukkah spices. The brunch culminates with Mulberry Taverns renowned Artisanal Cheese Board with condiments of quince paste, honeycomb and freshly baked bread. For those with a sweet tooth, sumptuous desserts include baked strawberries served with coconut sorbet, orange blossom and lime, and the house speciality of Mulberry cheesecake with cream cheese, mulberry, crumble and pears. Mulberry Tavern offers a sophisticated warm ambience to enjoy with family and friends. Spreading across two levels, the outlet also features live sports broadcasting and a playlist of your favourite indie-rock anthems. The outdoor terrace located on the ground floor also provides an area to relax and dine for those looking for an al fresco experience. ✤
GO: VISIT MULBERRYTAVERNDOHA.COM FOR BOOKINGS AND MORE INFORMATION.
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INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA PARTNERS WITH L’OCCITANE Experience an unforgettable staycation. Located on the longest private beach in the city, InterContinental Doha Hotel and Residences provides world-class facilities paired with bespoke services. The luxury hotel features 375 luxurious guest rooms and suites, 94 upscale residences, an exclusive Club InterContinental with an expansive terrace overlooking the Arabian Gulf, plus 14 award-winning restaurants. InterContinental Doha is proud to announce its month-long partnership with world-renowned beauty brand L’Occitane en Provence to provide guests with an unforgettable staycation. Beginning August 16 and until stocks last, L’Occitane has provided InterContinental Doha’s guests with an exclusive Summer Hydration Kit full of skincare essentials for both the face and the body. The kit is designed to provide hydration to the skin while maintaining a perfect, yet natural complexion. InterContinental Doha re-opened on July 1 for staycations while adhering to stringent safety precautions and measures. Their much-loved restaurants La Mar, Belgian Café, Mykonos, Pool Terrace and The Lounge have also opened their doors, along with the private beach and swimming pool. Basking under the sun for too long can damage your skin and that’s why L’Occitane has provided an all-around Summer Hydration Kit. Guests who book any Club InterContinental room or suite will
automatically receive a complimentary Summer Hydration Kit from L’Occitane. Club InterContinental combines personal service and exclusive privileges to make your stay extra special. ✤
GO: EMAIL RESERVATIONS.ICDOHA@IHG.COM OR CALL +974 4484 4043 FOR BOOKINGS AND MORE INFORMATION. fact magazine
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• LISTEN UP
A FALCON’S EYE: TRIBUTE TO SHEIKH SAOUD AL THANI OPENS AT THE MUSEUM OF ISLAMIC ART Running until April 10 2021, the exhibition features approximately 300 objects, some of which have never been exhibited to the public before. The Museum of Islamic Art has opened A Falcon’s Eye: Tribute to Sheikh Saoud Al Thani, a special exhibition featuring extraordinary artworks and artefacts acquired by Sheikh Saoud Al Thani, both as a passionate individual collector and on behalf of the State of Qatar. Sheikh Saoud served as Chairman for Qatar’s National Council for Culture, Arts and Heritage from 1997 to 2005. His knowledge and interests ranged from wildlife preservation to the history of photography, from Egyptology to modern architecture, and from the exquisite gems and jewellery of the Arabian Gulf and Mughal India to contemporary art. Featuring wonders of natural history, prized antiquities, treasures of the Islamic world and works of contemporary art, A Falcon’s Eye: Tribute to Sheikh Saoud Al Thani reveals the passionate commitment of the legendary collector who helped form the Qatar Museums collections. A Falcon’s Eye will run until April 10 2021 and features approximately 300 objects, some of which have never before been exhibited to the public. They range in date from the prehistoric Holocene 16
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period to the early 2000s and in geography from South America and Europe to the Arabian Gulf and China. These sweeping displays are presented in distinct, thematic groups reminiscent of the “cabinets of curiosities” that individual collectors assembled in the centuries before the first modern museums were established. The exhibition fills the Museum of Islamic Art’s first-floor temporary exhibition space, which will be named in honour of Sheikh Saoud. It extends into the fourth-floor galleries and balcony. A small selection of objects has also been incorporated into the galleries as part of the Museum of Islamic Art’s permanent collection. A Falcon’s Eye: Tribute to Sheikh Saoud Al Thani has been curated by Dr Hubert Bari (Qatar Museums Curatorial Consultant) and Dr Mounia Chekhab-Abudaya (MIA’s Curator for North Africa and Iberia). ✤
GO: VISIT WWW.MIA.ORG.QA FOR MORE INFORMATION.
LISTEN UP •
GUERLAIN AQUA ALLEGORIA First created by the Guerlain House in 1999 and added to each year by Thierry Wasser, the Aqua Allegoria collection continues to awaken the senses. Like scented odes to nature and joy, these seductive fragrances enchant with their subtle sophistication and everlingering freshness. Designed using a fusion of unexpected notes that showcase one ingredient, each of these hedonistic compositions brings one of the most beautiful gardens in the world to life with creativity and a dreamy, lasting freshness. Each of the colourful postcards in the Aqua Allegoria perfume collection creates joy, frees the imagination and captivates with its cheerful fragrance. And with 12 different versions to choose from, what results is a sensuous, pleasurable journey to some of the world’s most stunning landscapes – every time. With its delicate golden honeycomb design and emblematic bee engraved onto the top, the Aqua Allegoria bottle is a beautifully pared-down, graceful homage to the famous Bee Bottle and is available in 12 distinct scents. Orange Soleia, Granada Salvia, Ginger Piccante, Bergamote Calabria, Flora Cherrysia, Rosa Rossa, Herba Fresca, Mandarine Basilic, Coconut Fizz, Pera Granita, Passiflora and Pamplelune. Two new fragrant escapes from Thierry Wasser and Delphine Jelk are the Orange Soleia and Granada Salvia. Lemony citrus
notes define the Orange Soleia, set against a backdrop of wooded notes and Tonka bean. A hearty blood orange is cut through with the freshness of mint, pink peppercorns, and bergamot, thereby evoking images of Sicilian citrus groves and laughter in the sunshine. Fruity Citrus defines the Granada Salvia, like a run through a warm Andalusian garden, resulting in a sensory experience of pomegranate with aquatic, green acidic accents and red fruit. These are carried by the crisp freshness of blackcurrant, cypress, lemon and bergamot and elegantly swirled with sage and rose with notes of white musks, moss and patchoulili. Whether purchased as a gift or for yourself, these fragrances are as infectiously joyous as a smile. Embark on an incredible journey of escape and make one your very own. Each Aqua Allegoria serves as a stunning invitation to take flight in the imaginary and to discover joy via a sensory escape. ✤
GO: VISIT WWW.GUERLAIN.COM/ME FOR MORE INFORMATION. fact magazine
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• LISTEN UP
QATAR AIRWAYS’ PRIVILEGE CLUB REDEFINES THE LOYALTY PROGRAMME Designed with members’ needs in mind, Qmiles now last longer than ever before. Qatar Airways’ loyalty programme, Privilege Club has announced a change to its Qmiles policy in efforts to enhance the programme to further honour members’ loyalty. Now, when a member earns or spends Qmiles, their balance is valid for 36 months. Members can now earn or spend their Qmiles for as long as they stay active with the programme. This enhancement is among the initial steps in Privilege Club’s journey of change in exceeding expectations from the airline passengers can always rely on. Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive, His Excellency Mr. Akbar Al Baker, said: “At Qatar Airways, we are dedicated to providing our promised five-star service to our passengers and our Privilege Club plays an important role in this. We want to reward our most loyal customers with generosity and flexibility. As such, we have embarked on a journey of change within Privilege Club that puts our members and their needs at the forefront. Privilege Club has recently undergone multiple changes and our enhanced Qmiles policy is the first major step towards perfecting our loyalty programme with many more exciting new initiatives planned in the coming months. It is a true delight to see our loyal members enjoy our programme and I am very excited for what is to come.” 18
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Privilege Club launched in 2000 as a form of appreciation to Qatar Airways’ loyal passengers, offering them the opportunity to earn Qmiles when travelling on Qatar Airways, Oneworld airlines, or any of the airline’s partners. It has since served as another convenient means of payment at the Qatar Duty Free outlets, Oryx Galleria in Doha and now at Al Maha Meet and Assist services at Hamad International Airport. Privilege Club offers four membership tiers – Burgundy, Silver, Gold and Platinum – each with their own exclusive benefits for members to enjoy. Qmiles are earned when members travel with Qatar Airways, Oneworld airlines, other airline partners or use the services of any of the airline’s 60+ global partners. Qmiles are awarded based on the booking class purchased and can be redeemed for a range of exciting benefits and rewards including award flights, upgrades or extra baggage on Qatar Airways. ✤
GO: VISIT WWW.QATARAIRWAYS.COM FOR MORE INFORMATION.
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‘LOY RIVER SONG’ TAKES ITS MAIDEN JOURNEY TO THAILAND’S LOST KINGDOM OF AYUTTHAYA Thailand’s latest ultra-private luxury river cruise has officially launched on the Chao Phraya River. Offering a collection of itineraries ranging from two days and one night to four days and three nights, Loy Pela Voyages allows guests to choose the experience that best suits their travel plans. In keeping with the spirit of a bygone era, the décor of the fourstateroom Loy River Song is dominated by precious antiques and rare Thai silks. Discreetly incorporated into the timeless design of the staterooms are upscale, modern-day amenities: king-size beds, ensuite bathrooms, air-conditioning, separate his-and-her vanities and modern dressing tables. A combination of King and Queen cabins range in size from 20 to 30 square metres and are ideal for extended families or groups of friends travelling together. Traditional craftsmanship and regional influences evoke the elegance of old Siam, while intricately woven textiles in rich jewel tones create a relaxing, yet visually stimulating ambience. Comfortable sitting areas bathed in natural daylight make for perfect reading nooks. The same attention to detail characterises the interior of the communal areas that were purposely designed to host sunrise yoga, Muay Thai demonstrations, traditional dance performances and other activities promoting cultural immersion.
Operated by an expert crew, the deluxe cruise delivers the impeccable five-star service that discerning travellers have come to expect with luxury river cruising. With Loy Pela, guests will receive round-the-clock butler attention, exquisite meals prepared by a private chef and in-depth local knowledge, courtesy of a resident tour guide. From cycling excursions on Bang Kachao island to exploring some of the region’s most spectacular temples, every day is filled with adventure, serendipitous moments and discoveries. As the cruise makes its way to UNESCO-listed Ayutthaya, the stories of Thailand’s past and present, of its mighty kings and grand cities are illustrated by a rich tableau of spectacular vistas. Guided excursions – some on foot, others by car or a traditional long-tail boat – place travellers in the very heart of old Siam. Loy River Song joins Loy Dream, a 100-year-old teak rice barge with two berths, as part of Loy Pela Voyages. ✤
GO: EMAIL RESERVATIONS@LOYPELAVOYAGES.COM OR CALL +66 2 476 0022 FOR BOOKINGS AND INFORMATION. fact magazine
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• ARTS AND CULTURE
PICASSO’S STUDIOS OPENS AT THE FIRE STATION A special exhibition, organised in collaboration with the Musée National Picasso-Paris, surveys eight decades of Pablo Picasso’s creativity.
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atar Museums has reopened the Fire Station: Artist in Residence and unveiled the special exhibition Picasso’s Studios in the Garage Gallery. The exhibition features 108 extraordinary artworks by Pablo Picasso selected from the unparalleled collection of the Musée National Picasso-Paris, including paintings, sculptures, drawings, prints and ceramics. On view through November 1 2020, the innovative exhibition traces the evolution of Picasso’s epoch-making art by presenting it in eight distinct galleries, representing the series of studios where he worked throughout his career. Sheikha Reem Al Thani, Director of Exhibitions at Qatar Museums, said: “We are absolutely delighted to finally be able to share with the public this exceptional exhibition we have organised in collaboration with the Musée National Picasso-Paris. Picasso’s Studios is a celebration of a great artist’s career and gives us a unique view into his art practice. All the works at one time belonged to the artist’s personal collection, and all are grouped within the exhibition to recall the places in which they were created. It is especially appropriate that we are presenting Picasso’s Studios at the Fire Station: Artist in Residence, where outstanding contemporary Qatari artists produce and show their work in Doha today.” Spanning eight decades, from Picasso’s arrival in Paris in 1900 to his final years on the Mediterranean in the 1970s, the exhibition is part of the 2020 Qatar-France Year of Culture, a Qatar Museums initiative dedicated to building bridges between the people and institutions of these two nations. Aisha Ghanem Al Attiya, Head of Years of Culture, Qatar Museums said: “Pablo Picasso, one of the most influential artists of his generation, spent most of his adult life in France where he fell in love with the country and its riviera towns. We are pleased to bring this outstanding exhibition to Qatar as part of our Year of Culture programme, and introduce the collection of one of France’s most iconic museums to our audiences.” Organised chronologically, the exhibition focuses on the eight studios where the artist worked. 20
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Picasso’s Studios is curated by Virginie Perdrisot-Cassan, Curator of Paintings (1921-1973), Sculptures and Ceramics at the Musée National Picasso-Paris. ✤
GO: VISIT FIRESTATION.ORG.QA FOR MORE INFORMATION.
Indulge in a culinary journey to experience the art of Italian cuisine with Chef Claudio Trovato at your favourite trattoria Cucina. LA GIORNATA ITALIANA Eat all you can eat pizza, pasta and handcrafted antipasti Wednesday | QAR 95
PRANZO EXPRESSO Take a break and treat yourself to a two course express lunch and a coffee of your choice. Sunday – Thursday | QAR 79
MAKE YOUR OWN PIZZA AND LASAGNE BOX Recreate Cucina signature pizza and lasagne in the comfort of your home with grab and go meal kits. Daily | From QAR 45
Open Daily | 1 pm – 10 pm For more information and reservations, call 6643 6890
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• DINING DEALS
SEPTEMBER DINING T HE VE R Y B E S T D I N IN G O P T I O N S I N D O H A T H I S M O N T H.
FOUR SEASONS HOTEL DOHA: ELEMENTS Experience a ‘Journey to Asia’ at Elements restaurant where you can indulge in Asian Street food inspired by the four cuisines of Elements: Indian, Chinese, Japanese and Thai. Every Friday. 1st seating from 12:30pm to 2:30pm, 2nd seating from 2:45pm to 4:45pm. QAR 200 with soft beverages. GO: Call + 974 4494 8600 for more information.
JW MARRIOTT MARQUIS CITY CENTER DOHA:
NOBU Nobu Doha is offering an elite brunch with a wide selection of the famed restaurant’s speciality dishes every Friday. 1st seating from 12pm to 2pm, 2nd seating from 2:15pm to 4:15pm. QAR 265 (regular brunch). GO: Call +974 4494 8600 for more information.
SHANGHAI CLUB The long-awaited Sunset Brunch season returns to Shanghai Club. Enjoy unprecedented 360° panoramic views of the Doha skyline, while kicking back and savouring the legendary sunsets over authentic Asian fare, homemade dim sum, and canapés made with exquisite ingredients. Indulge in an unlimited selection of signature dishes such as Peking Duck, BBQ Angus Beef Cheek with Asian spiced jus, Thai Massaman Vegetable Curry and dim sum delicacies like Classic Har Gow, Roasted Duck in Foie Gras and Chicken and Prawn Siu Mai. In addition to this, a selection of sushi and sashimis are not to be missed. Complete your experience with sweet treats of Peanut Butter Parfait, Ginger Vanilla Chilled Custard and a Black Tea Mousse. Every Friday, from 2pm to 7pm. QAR 240 (soft beverages). GO: Call +974 4429 5295 for more information.
FOUR SEASONS HOTEL DOHA:
JW MARRIOTT MARQUIS CITY CENTER DOHA:
SEASONS TEA LOUNGE The award-winning sophisticated afternoon tea offers beautifully presented cakes, dainty pastries, scones and delicate finger sandwiches served with exquisite blends of the finest teas. Available daily from 2pm to 7pm QAR 250 inclusive of one hot or cold beverage. GO: Call +974 4494 8600 for more information.
FUEGO Fuego brings you the best of Latin American cuisine in an extraordinary new menu, curated by JW Marriott’s Executive Chef Oscar Engmann. Begin your meal with a creamy sweetcorn soup, baked pastry with a creamy filling or a slow-roasted New Zealand lamb. For mains, there’s a delicious Argentinian Angus tenderloin or a rib-eye steak, short ribs or a whole sea bass. Cleanse your palate with Argentinean crepe dough stuffed with dulce de leche and 100 per cent banana ice cream, cheesecake with guava sauce or 70 per cent Guajara cocoa chocolate and passion fruit sorbet. Available Monday to Saturday from 6pm to 11pm. GO: Call +974 4429 5295 for more information.
FOUR SEASONS HOTEL DOHA:
HILTON DOHA THE PEARL: THE KITCHEN Stay-at-home summers are enhanced with the reopening of the The Kitchen, a popular all-day and night dining restaurant known for using the finest and freshest ingredients in its culinary offerings. From tempting buffet breakfasts, this casual restaurant transforms into a lively hub for slick, hearty lunches with a wide choice of small and large platters, before evolving again for an evening of elevated, à la carte dinners. Open daily from 7am to 11pm. The breakfast buffet is QAR 110, while lunch and dinner are served à la carte. GO: Call +974 4492 4610 for more information. 22
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JW MARRIOTT MARQUIS CITY CENTER DOHA: SRIDAN Immerse yourself into the rich culture whilst experiencing the mouthwatering flavours of Turkish cuisine every Thursday at Sridan. Enjoy an exciting culinary journey through different regions of Turkey from
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mezes to kebabs, pacanga borek to Turkish ravioli and desserts. Every Thursday from 6:30pm to 10:30pm. QAR 180 per person (set menu). GO: Call +974 4429 5295 for more information.
MARRIOTT MARQUIS CITY CENTER DOHA: CROSSROADS KITCHEN Unwind in the late afternoon or evenings in the comfort of your home with signature street food specials from Saturday to Wednesday each week. Enjoy Curry’ N’ Tikka on Saturdays, All about Noodles on Sundays, Curries of Africa on Mondays, Street Kebabs on Tuesdays and the all-time classic Fish and Chips on Wednesdays. Available daily from 2pm to 10pm. QAR 65 per person (a surcharge of QAR 10 applies for takeaway). GO: WhatsApp +974 6600 1315 for more information.
MARRIOTT MARQUIS CITY CENTER DOHA: CUCINA If you are looking to load up on carbs, then Cucina has got you covered. With all-you-can-eat pizza, pasta and handcrafted antipasti, you are in for a real treat. The menu features four types of pizzas including the all-time favourite Diavola, three types of homemade pasta, and a selection of antipasti crafted by Chef Claudio Trovato for the perfect entrée! Every Wednesday, from 1pm to 10pm. QAR 95 per person (minimum of two persons required). GO: WhatsApp +974 6643 6890 for more information.
MARRIOTT MARQUIS CITY CENTER DOHA: IPANEMA Discover the new meat hour at Ipanema and enjoy an unlimited supply of six meat cuts of your choice complemented by gourmet salads and refreshing appetisers. The sight of gauchos carving churrasco favourites at your tableside will complete your Brazilian journey in Doha. Don’t forget to leave room for the unique desserts crafted for the perfect ending. Available Monday to Wednesday and on Saturdays, from 6:30pm to 8:30pm. QAR 175 per person. GO: WhatsApp +974 6643 6890 for more information.
MARRIOTT MARQUIS CITY CENTER DOHA: NEW YORK STEAKHOUSE Eat light on Thursday so you can feast on Friday! The Big Apple Brunch is back at the award-winning New York Steakhouse, with the bespoke made-to-order menu carefully prepared by the newly appointed Chef De Cuisine Frank Martin and his brigade. The familyfriendly brunch celebrates expertly grilled steaks cooked from prime cuts of meat, oceanic favourites, deliciously blended salads and an exclusive selection of desserts to top off your feast. Wash your brunch down with a variety of speciality drinks, mocktails and more. Fridays from 12pm to 2pm and from 2:30pm to 4:30pm. QAR 295 (soft beverages). GO: WhatsApp +974 6643 6890 for more information. fact magazine
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• DINING DEALS
MONDRIAN DOHA: ELLAMIA DOHA Offering a wide range of artisan coffee blends, teas, homemade sodas, green juices and smoothies, EllaMia’s menu brings a new and unique selection of drinks to the F&B scene in Qatar. Don’t miss Afternoon Tea in the Frozen Forest, available every day from 2pm to 7pm for QAR 175. GO: Call +974 4045 5999 for more information.
MONDRIAN DOHA: HUDSON TAVERN Surrounded by brick walls, wooden surfaces and vintage lighting, choose a booth to enjoy handcrafted burgers and catch up on live sports. Enjoy the burger of the month ‘The Fancy One’ for just QAR 75. GO: Call +974 4045 5999 for more information.
MONDRIAN DOHA: MORIMOTO Sushi and steak nights are not to be missed at popular Japanese restaurant Morimoto. Offering a selection of nigiri, sashimi and sushi rolls, prawn tempura, soba, gyoza, steak and dessert. Every Sunday, from 6pm to 11:30pm. QAR 222 (minimum of two guests sharing). GO: Call +974 4045 5999 for more information.
SHERATON GRAND DOHA RESORT AND CONVENTION HOTEL: AL HUBARA Enjoy a new way of brunching with the Al Hubara Table Brunch. Experience the same Al Hubara Friday brunch that you know and 24
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love, served at your table. Spend the weekend with a wide selection gastronomic delights featuring a world of cuisines. Fridays from 12:30pm to 4pm. QAR 350 per person inclusive of water, juices, tea or coffee, and soft beverages. GO: Call + 974 4485 3000 for more information.
SHERATON GRAND DOHA RESORT AND CONVENTION HOTEL: ATRIUM LOUNGE Located at the majestic lobby of Sheraton Grand Doha, Atrium Lounge is the living room of Qatar where locals and guests can experience authentic Arabian hospitality. Atrium’s Afternoon Tea has been revamped and uplifted with a whole new selection of pastries. Served with a mixture of Arabic sweets and traditional afternoon tea favourites, the new afternoon tea is as delicious as it is beautiful. Available daily from 2pm to 8pm. QAR 175 for two persons. GO: Call + 974 4485 3000 for more information.
SHERATON GRAND DOHA RESORT AND CONVENTION HOTEL: LA VERANDA Traditional Italian cooking is about simplicity, the freshest ingredients, masterful techniques and lively company to enjoy it with. La Veranda is the leading Italian dining destination in Doha, preferred for its fresh, homemade culinary offerings and quintessential home ambience that spark family-sharing memories. Whether you are out for a quick lunch or long leisurely break, the Lunch Set Menu is available daily from 12pm to 3pm and suits every taste. QAR 100 per person GO: Call + 974 4485 3000 for more information.
DINING DEALS •
THE RITZ-CARLTON DOHA: B-LOUNGE If you fancy a tasty brunch in an exceptional setting, experience Froze Brunch at B-Lounge. Enjoy a mix of Provençal and Asian flavours served alongside live entertainment. Every Friday, from 1pm to 4pm. QAR 350 (soft beverages). GO: Call +974 5080 4421 for more information.
THE RITZ-CARLTON DOHA: FLAMINGOS From September 16 to 19, celebrate Mexican Independence Day poolside with a Mexican-inspired food menu and beverage specials throughout the weekend. GO: Call +974 4484 8000 for more information.
W DOHA: THE RITZ-CARLTON DOHA: LOBBY LOUNGE Indulge in a British tradition with afternoon tea at The Ritz-Carlton, Doha. Enjoy a selection of sandwiches, freshly-baked scones with Cornish clotted cream and strawberry preserves and a mouthwatering range of pastries. The elegant ambience is complemented by music from the resident pianist, ensuring an unforgettable afternoon tea. Available daily from 2:30pm to 7pm. QAR 180 per person GO: Call +974 4484 8000 for more information.
WFIT2GO MEAL PLANS W Doha is excited to announce the launch of WFIT2GO Meal Plans that are rich in taste and low in calories. With our lives getting busier by the day, WFIT2GO is the answer to easy meal planning based on a low-calorie intake. All you need to do is choose from three monthly meal plans, inspiredly W Doha’s award-winning restaurants. QAR 3,200 (1,200 Kcal – Low Cal), QAR 3,300 (1,500 Kcal – Classic) or QAR 3,400 (1,800 Kcal – Active). GO: Call +974 3025 5262 for more information.
THE RITZ-CARLTON DOHA:
THE WESTIN DOHA HOTEL AND SPA:
SEL & MIEL With its modern design and gourmet roots, The Parisian Saturday Brunch adds a touch of glamour to the Doha brunch scene, featuring a wide selection of French appetizers, main courses and dessert trolley to be shared with your friends and family. Every Saturday from 12pm to 4pm. QAR 250 (soft drinks). GO: Call +974 5576 4278 for more information.
HUNTERS ROOM AND GRILL Experience an upscale, contemporary spin on the traditional grill house. The open show kitchen presents enticing aromas and succulent textures and offers quality cuts from around the world with a unique style of serving. Craving for more delectable meats? Hunters have a new Gaucho Brunch every Saturday from 2pm to 4:30pm. QAR 220 (soft drinks). GO: Call +974 3359 8514 for more information.
THE WESTIN DOHA HOTEL AND SPA: SABAI THAI The textures and flavours of Sabai Thai’s authentic cooking make for a deliciously different dining affair and the open kitchen is perfect for those wanting to experience an authentic taste of Thailand. The Royal Thai Brunch is back every Saturday from 12:30pm to 3pm and 4pm to 6:30pm. QAR 180 (soft drinks). GO: Call +974 3359 8514 for more information.
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Saffron A f t e r n o o n Te a Daily from 2-5 PM QR 110 for two A select choice of Pastries and Snacks Tc h a b a A r t i s a n Te a L e a v e s Coffee by CafĂŠs Richard
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THE A TO Z OF FASHION AND BEAUTY BRUSH UP ON YOUR BAKING, ACIDS, PARABENS AND MORE WITH THESE 26 BEAUTY WORDS YOU NEED TO KNOW THE MEANING OF. WE’VE ALSO PLUCKED TERMINOLOGY THAT YOU CAN FIND ALL OVER THE FASHION SCENE - SEASON IN, SEASON OUT - FOR YOU TO IMPRESS YOUR STYLE TRIBE THIS FW20. fact magazine
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• FASHION A TO Z
A-LINE Style line for apparel in which the dress fits at the shoulder or the skirt at the waist and gradually flares out to a wider hemline, causing it to resemble the letter A. Christian Dior created the earliest A-line designs in the 1950s.
AMPOULE An ampoule is a more potent version of an essence or a serum, usually containing a high concentration of antioxidants. They’re very popular in Korean beauty routines and should be applied after essence, but before creams as a booster/treatment product.
BATWING A sleeve that fits closely at the wrist but widens to be very full under the arm. From the back, the sleeve resembles a cape. Its name comes from its resemblance to the wing of a bat or its similarity to a type of coat worn in the late 1800s that had a cape-like sleeve.
BAKING A technique that consists of layering powder, foundation and concealer to settle/bake into the skin that leaves you with a brighter complexion.
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FASHION A TO Z •
CAMISOLE In the 19th century, a camisole was a waist-length undergarment worn over a corset. Generally, it had broad straps and tied at the upper edge with a drawstring. Often it was trimmed with lace or eyelet embroidery. In modern usage, the term may refer to any undergarment worn over a brassiere and ending at the waist. Blouses or tops that are cut in a style similar to the historic camisole are called camisole tops.
CC AKA Colour Correcting- a property commonly found in foundations, primers and concealers.
D’ORSAY SHOE Refers to any shoe that has a closed heel and toe but is cut down to the sole at the sides. It can be made with a heel of any type and any style of vamp (front). The style is one of several fashions named after the Count d’Orsay, a fashionable dandy living in Paris in the mid-1800s.
DERMATOLOGICALLY TESTED Meaning a product has been tested on human skin before being available to buy.
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• FASHION A TO Z
EMPIRE WAIST Location of the waistline just under the bustline. The name of this style comes from the high-waisted styles popular during the reign of the French Emperor Napoleon Bonaparte (1804-1814).
EXFOLIATING Exfoliating is a part of your skincare regime that removes dead skin cells often using a granular substance.
FASHION TRIBES Current fashion has moved away from one universal style for all. Instead, various segments of the consuming public, especially the young, are likely to dress in fashions that show that they belong to a particular group or a style tribe.
FERULIC ACID An antioxidant found in the cell walls of plants and the seeds of apples and oranges. It has an anti-ageing effect when applied topically.
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GATHERS A means of distributing fullness in some part of a garment by sewing a loose row of stitches, pulling the thread, and sliding the fabric along the thread to make soft folds in order to decrease the width of the fabric.
GLYCOLIC PEEL A chemical peel that exfoliates the outer layer of dead skin cells. Good for boosting a radiant glow.
HEMS The lower edge of a part of a garment that has been finished off with some type of sewing to cover the raw edge. Among the more common types of hems are: plain hem that is turned up and sewn into place; rolled hem used on sheer or delicate fabrics and rolled up by hand into a narrow hem that is sewn with small hand stitches; and faced hem, which is finished with a piece of fabric sewn to the bottom of the garment edge and then turned up to the underside and sewn into place.
HYALURONIC ACID A water-based ingredient that plumps and hydrates skin, often found in the best facial serums.
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• FASHION A TO Z
INFLUENCERS Influencers, or sometimes referred to as key opinion leaders, are a group of individuals that have risen among the ranks (mostly through social media) based on the number of followers they have. Many of which have become brand ambassadors for a variety of fashion labels.
ILLUMINATING A term used to describe skin that is nourished and naturally radiant. Or also used to describe the effect of strobing when using a highlighter.
JACQUARD Jacquard fabrics have raised patterns that are woven into the fabric, instead of patterns that are merely printed on. Depending on the types of yarns used, a jacquard can vary from minimal-looking variations to more ostentatious designs with the use of metallic yarns.
JOJOBA A plant extract high in vitamin E that is often found in skincare and body moisturisers.
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KNIT A knit is a type of fabric that’s created using a technique where yarn is looped around. As compared to woven fabrics, a knit tends to be more malleable and stretches more easily.
KERATIN An ingredient commonly found in hair products to smooth, add shine and de-frizz. Keratin treatments can tame even the curliest of hair.
LOAFER A Moccasin-style classic slip-on shoe that has a slotted strap at the front. The strap is stitched to the front (vamp) of the shoe. If the strap has a coin inserted in the slot, the shoe is called a penny loafer. If it has a tassel at the front, it is a tassel-top loafer. Sometimes a metal chain is fastened to the strap, and the shoe is called a chain loafer.
LACTIC ACID A popular acid belonging to the AHAs (or Alpha Hydroxy Acids) that is a powerful but gentle exfoliant, often used to treat acne-prone skin.
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• FASHION A TO Z
MACRAMÉ A hand technique for making small pieces of fabric and trimmings by knotting from two to four or more yarns, strings, or cords into a variety of decorative patterns. Macramé has been fashionable periodically and is most often seen in belts, handbags, vests, or as trimmings. Sometimes beads are incorporated into the design of the fabric.
MELANIN What gives our skin and hair pigment. If you have a light skin tone, an increase in melanin is what causes tanning and dark spots.
NICHE Niche fashion caters to only a specific group in society. Types of niche fashion can include gender-blurring fashion, vegan clothing and even haute couture—all catering to a small segment of the community at large.
NIACINAMIDE An active, water-soluble form of vitamin – aka a multitasking skincare hero. Oily skin types, in particular, have found solace in niacinamide, as it works to regulate sebum, improve congestion and calm breakouts.
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FASHION A TO Z •
OXFORD A basic shoe style that either laces shut or is closed with some other fastening. Details of styling and cut will vary. Initially, the term was used by shoemakers to distinguish between low-cut shoes and boots. Today the major distinction is in the fact that the shoe has a closing.
OLAPLEX Olaplex is a system that permanently rebuilds the damaged disulphide bonds in your hair that are broken during the chemical process of dying your locks. If you’ve over-bleached over the years, Olaplex allows you to rebuild the strength of your hair.
PAGODA SLEEVE A sleeve that is shaped much like an Asian building called a pagoda. Like a pagoda, the sleeve is narrow at the top where it fits the upper arm closely, then gradually flares out to become wide at the bottom. The shape is similar to a funnel, and so this sleeve style may also be called a funnel sleeve.
PARABEN-FREE Products that state they are paraben-free mean they are free of preservatives – therefore no nasties in your soaps, deodorants or moisturisers.
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• FASHION A TO Z
QUALITY The mark of true luxury fashion is the quality. This refers to the way that the garment is made from the creation of the fabric to the final finishing of the piece. A quality piece of work is one that could potentially last for a very long time.
QUERCETIN Quercetin is an ingredient found in skincare that has both antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It can fight and neutralise free radicals, which are the leading cause of ageing.
RUCHING Current fashion descriptions use the term ruching to refer to clothing with large areas of fullness gathered in to form a rippled effect. Historically, ruching was a trimming made by pleating bands of fabric and stitching the pleats in place. These bands were sewn onto various parts of the garment.
ROSACEA A common rash that is poorly understood. It can cause the skin to redden and form small and superficial dilated blood vessels. The elimination of highly perfumed products can often calm or cure the reaction.
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SHIFT A basic dress style that has simple, straight lines and does not fit close to the body. Commonly seen in the 1960s and in other periods when unfitted styles were popular. One innovation in this style in the 1960s was the incorporation of a diagonal dart running from the side seam to the bustline. In comparison, a sheath is a simple, straight, but fitted dress in which vertical darts, bust darts, and shaping from side seams provide the fit.
SUNSCREEN Today’s sunscreens are brilliant. They’re lightweight, semi-matte, and non-chalky, and they look completely invisible under your foundation. And I know you already know this, but here it goes: even though we’re mostly indoors nowadays, your skin deserves sun protection on the daily.
TIE-DYE A method of decorating a garment or fabric by tying string or other material around pre-selected areas in order to prevent dye from being absorbed by these areas. The unprotected area takes up the dye and the tied area does not. To get multicoloured effects, the fabric can be tied in other areas and dipped in another coloured dye. This process can be repeated as often as desired.
TOPICAL Refers to applying product to a particular area of the skin. For example, to apply spot treatment or cream topically means you only apply ointment to the pimple.
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• FASHION A TO Z
UNSTRUCTURED A garment that is unstructured means that it has no structural design support such as boning and padding. An unstructured garment, when hung, should drop instead of appearing stiff.
UV PROTECTION UV stands for Ultra Violet, which radiates from the sun and is damaging to the skin and speeds up the ageing process. Many beauty products have UV protection in the form of SPF to limit this exposure to harmful rays.
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FASHION A TO Z •
VINTAGE Fashion items that are at least 20 years old are considered vintage. The act of buying vintage can be seen as the most environmentally friendly way of shopping. And if something has been in pristine condition for the past 20 years or so, it would probably last much longer.
VITAMIN Vitamins are organic compounds and vital nutrients that cannot be synthesised by the body. Products are often infused with these to boost skin’s luminosity and overall radiance.
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• FASHION A TO Z
WATTEAU BACK The back of a garment in which box pleats are placed at the centre back and the fabric released by these pleats falls loosely to the bottom of the garment. The name of this style derives from Jean-Antoine Watteau, an 18th century French artist whose paintings depicted women wearing dresses with this design feature. The name was not applied to these designs until the 19th century. Today the style continues to be popular, especially in nightgowns and robes.
WAXING Waxing is the process of hair removal from the root by using a covering of a sticky substance, such as wax, to adhere to body hair, and then removing this covering and pulling out the hair from the follicle.
X In fashion, X denotes a collaboration between two brands. It is incorrect to refer to the X as ‘by’, since in a collaboration, there shouldn’t be one party that’s more significant than the other.
XEROSIS Abnormal dryness of body parts.
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FASHION A TO Z •
YOKE A yoke is a shaped pattern piece which forms part of a garment, usually fitting around the neck and shoulders, or around the hips to provide support for looser parts of the garment, such as a gathered skirt or the body of a shirt.
(FACE) YOGA A series of repetitive facial exercises and movements designed to improve tone and firmness.
ZIP A zip, formerly known as a clasp locker, is a commonly used device for binding the edges of an opening of fabric or other flexible material, such as on a garment or a bag.
ZINC OXIDE The sun’s UV rays, pollution, poor diet, stress, and lack of exercise can all cause damage to the skin on a daily basis. Fortunately, the skin has natural regenerative powers that it uses to repair minor wounds, injuries, free radical damage, and more, but these processes require zinc to operate optimally. Without it, skin repair can fall behind, resulting in age.
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Get your daily dose of Ohlala online now THE ESSENCE OF STYLE
COOL CHANGE
Autumnal WEAR
AW19/20
Beauty FOR THE Bold
WWW.OHLALA-MAGAZINE.COM OCTOBER 2019 | ISSUE 99 QATAR | QR20
Check out our website 42
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www.ohlalamag.net
THE SUITE LIFE RE-IMAGINED TO PRESENT A NEW ERA IN ITS LEGACY, THE RITZ-CARLTON, DOHA CELEBRATES THE CITY’S PROGRESSIVE SPIRIT. FACT CHECKS IN TO EXPERIENCE THE LUXURIOUS ONE-BEDROOM AMIRI SUITE.
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• STAYCATION SPOTLIGHT
W
ith its vintage interiors and extraordinary elegance, The Ritz-Carlton Doha is a worthy recommendation for anyone looking to spend a night in great comfort while experiencing the utmost luxury. Having recently visited the hotel for a stay in the beautiful one-bedroom Amiri Suite, we thoroughly enjoyed the aura of exuberance that the hotel exhibits. The 5-star luxury hotel offers 374 well-appointed guest rooms and 61 spacious suites for both singles and couples and provides larger deluxe suites for families as well. We were thoroughly impressed with the top-notch amenities and of course The RitzCarlton Doha’s most distinctive feature - the largest chandelier in the Middle East! The hotel also offers a variety of facilities that includes a luxurious spa as well as a collection of legendary swimming pools for both indoor and outdoor fun. Recently renovated and exuding residential warmth the suites elevate simple, modern décor with Tuscan marble, French Oak and other luxury materials. Our lavish Amiri suite features large living spaces and wall-to-wall windows, offering impressive views. With expansive living quarters that consist of a separate living area, dining area and kitchenette, the suite puts comfort and convince first. A flat-screen television, iPod docking station and even a walk-in wardrobe mean that guests can unpack quickly and enjoy all of the benefits of such an appealing space. The suite is beautifully appointed with a comfortable king bed that provided us with admittedly the deepest nights sleep we’d had for some time (we think it may have been due to the buoyant pillows and super comfortable mattress and duvet combination). A sizeable marble bathroom features a separate shower and bathtub, signature Asprey bathroom amenities, plush terry cloth bathrobes and comfortable slippers. Best of all is the large makeup area with lighted shaving and makeup mirror, ensuring we have plenty of space to pamper ourselves given the luxurious surroundings of a stay at The Ritz-Carlton, Doha. Being situated in one of Qatar’s prime locations, The Ritz-Carlton Doha is a perfect get-away as it lies at a comfortable distance from malls and local restaurants. For anyone looking to dine in true style, we would suggest the in house French restaurant, Sel & Miel for an exquisite and memorable dinner. With its breathtaking views and sophisticated ambience, we thoroughly appreciate the way The Ritz-Carlton Doha represents the city’s modern yet traditional spirit and provides its guests with a wellrounded multicultural experience. ✤ 44
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STAYCATION SPOTLIGHT •
GO: CALL +974 4425 6663 OR +974 4484 8000 FOR BOOKINGS AND MORE INFORMATION. fact magazine
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• ENTERTAINMENT
BIG SCREEN PROJECT POWER
Highlights
LOVECRAFT COUNTRY WHAT’S IT ABOUT?
WHAT’S IT ABOUT?
When a pill that gives its users unpredictable superpowers for five minutes hits the streets of New Orleans, a teenager and a local cop must team up with an ex-soldier to take down the group responsible for its creation.
DIRECTOR: Henry Joost, Ariel Schulman CAST: Jamie Foxx, Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Dominique Fishback
WHY IS IT WORTH WATCHING?
The latest film to be released on streaming giant Netflix is Project Power. Looking to capitalise on the current trend for all things superheroes, this big-budget production doesn’t examine the usual superhero tropes or origin story. Instead, it throws us straight into chaotic and impressively staged action sequences from the get-go. Hollywood A-listers Jamie Foxx and Joseph Gordon-Levitt put in great performances, but it’s relative newcomer Dominique Fishback who will likely capture the attention of audiences. The concept of a pill that can provide temporary access to superpowers is a novel one and, while the film does take some in setting up the premise, once the action hits, it’s a thrilling one hour and 53 minutes of screen time supported by some remarkable visual effects once the action hits. Based upon the initial reviews and climactic finale, we wouldn’t be surprised to see a sequel announced very soon.
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“
Hollywood A-listers Jamie Foxx and Joseph Gordon-Levitt put in great performances, but it’s relative newcomer Dominique Fishback who will likely capture the attention of audiences.” – Project Power
Lovecraft Country follows Atticus Black as he joins up with his friend Letitia and his uncle George to embark on a road trip across 1950s Jim Crow America in search of his missing father. This begins a struggle to survive the terrifying monsters that could be ripped straight from a H.P. Lovercraft paperback.
CREATORS: Misha Green, Jordan Peele CAST: Jonathan Majors, Jurnee Smollett, Courtney B. Vance
WHY IS IT WORTH WATCHING?
Based on Matt Ruff’s novel of the same name, Lovecraft Country is executive produced by showrunner Misha Green along with J.J. Abrams and Jordan Peele, so based on the talent involved we were expecting big things. The eight-episode first season follows our central trio as they traverse Jim Crow America in search of a missing relative and discover so much more than they had anticipated along the way. The series couldn’t have debuted at a better time as it tackles a lot of present-day issues and poses the ultimate question in the process: are people scarier than monsters? What starts out as a drama offset with uneasy framing and a prevalent sense of dread turns into an all-out horror assault by the end of episode one! It’s this remarkable ability to balance genres while also providing social commentary that makes Lovecraft Country a compelling watch from start to finish.
ENTERTAINMENT •
FULLY BOOKED
ON THE RECORD
FICTION
Midnight Sun
R&B
AFROBEATS
B7
Twice As Tall
By Brandy B7 is the seventh studio album by R&B songstress Brandy and her first studio album in eight years following the success of 2012’s Two Eleven. Having been in the entertainment industry from a very young age, it is no surprise that Brandy co-wrote and co-produced 14 of the 15 songs on this new album that focuses on themes of self-love, motherhood and the examination of romantic relationships. B7 is a cathartic listening experience that begins with “Saving All My Love”, a track that works as an apology to the fans for Brandy’s musical absence. The album then works through its intricate examination of relationships, and this is never more present than on standout track “Borderline”, which sees Brandy self-reflect and confront the weaknesses within her own relationships. Guest features are sparing on B7 but the Chance the Rapper assisted “Baby Mama” is an upbeat look at single motherhood, while Daniel Caesar lends his vocals to the sultry “Love Again”. The final track is perhaps one of the most honest pieces of music in Brandy’s catalogue as she discusses her mental health issues and newfound positivity with the memorable “Bye BiPolar.” After such a prolonged absence, it’s great to see this R&B heavyweight return to form.
By Burna Boy Having featured on tracks for big names such as Beyoncé, Ed Sheeran, Dave, Jorja Smith and J Hus, 2020 is definitely Burna Boy’s year. Now, only one year after the release of his last album, the Nigerian star is back with his latest project, Twice As Tall. Burna Boy is exceptionally confident and cleverly uses African music meshed with hip-hop, R&B, dancehall and reggae influences to create a unique musical style with mass appeal. The opening track “Level Up” features a looped sample from the 1959 movie Journey to the Centre of the Earth to startling effect, while guest appearances include the likes of Chris Martin on “Monsters You Made” (a track about Burna’s disenchantment), and UK rapper Stormzy on “Real Life”. Yet, it’s the crossover appeal of Burna Boy’s music that makes his fifth studio project such an exciting listen. Executive produced by Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs, this project couldn’t have arrived at a better time as it rides the meteoric rise of Afrobeats in popular culture.
By Stephanie Meyer From the author of the Twilight saga comes a new look at the series that has enraptured millions of readers worldwide. Midnight Sun is a companion novel to the 2005 book Twilight and retells its events from the perspective of vampire Edward Cullen instead of that of the series’ usual narrating character, Bella Swan. This unforgettable new take on the romance between mortal and vampire takes on a new and decidedly dark twist and is essential reading for all you Twihards and fanpires.
FICTION
The Yield By Tara June Winch August Gondiwindi has been living on the other side of the world for 10 years when she learns of her grandfather’s death. She returns home for his burial, wracked with grief and burdened with all she tried to leave behind. Her homecoming is bittersweet as she confronts the love of her kin and news that her childhood home is to be repossessed by a mining company. Determined to make amends, she endeavours to save their land – a quest that leads her to the voice of her grandfather and into the past, the stories of her people, the secrets of the river. Winner of the 2020 Miles Franklin literary award, this is one novel you don’t want to miss.
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• PLUGGED IN
APP-L ICIOUS LET’S SEE WHAT’S ON THE SMARTPHONE AGENDA FOR SEPTEMBER...
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ASKWHO
BLOSSOM
ASKWHO is based on distance and allows users to communicate with people in their area at a click of a button. By opening the app, your phone will discover those in the area, allowing you to connect to their social platforms and interact at your leisure. Perhaps you’ve seen someone out running and recognised them from somewhere? Or someone in your building needs help with a new project and you have the perfect skill set to help? Built with busy working professionals in mind, the app includes a ‘save search’ feature that remembers those who were around you, allowing you to go back and find the person who caught your eye at a business conference or left a lasting impression. The ASKWHO app creates a sense of community at a time when we need it most by making socialising interactive and networking accessible.
Roses are red, violets are blue... ready to know all the plants around you? Whether you are an expert gardener, contemplating house greenery, enjoy tending to your garden or living your greenest life, Blossom is the app for you! Taking care of plants can be fun and a great form of relaxation and, with the Blossom app, you can learn everything you need to give your green friends a long and happy life. Identify thousands of plants and get howtos and useful tips, receive reminders to water your greenery on time, and find out the best way to fertilise and repot your plants. Start taking care of your private Blossom-ing garden and you’ll have green fingers in absolutely no time.
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PLUGGED IN •
THE NOVA FACTOR Meet your next go-to smartphone HUAWEI nova 7 5G for crisp photos and exceptional videos. With the smartphone game continually evolving, users expect more and more from their handheld devices as lives are quite literally planned in the palm of our hands. Huawei has come to the rescue when it comes to smartphone enhancements and camera functionality with the launch of its trendy new handset, the HUAWEI nova 7 5G. Packed full of exciting hardware and new features, the flagship smartphone features a high-resolution 64MP AI Quad Camera that is designed for all scenarios – bright beaches and dark restaurants included. The 7nm Kirin 985 5G chipset supports the 5G network while offering robust performance and powerful image processing. Having had our hands on the latest Huawei device for the last few days, we are excited not only by the impressive camera and extended battery life, but also the slim design that feels significantly lighter than we are accustomed to. The feel in the hand is an absolute pleasure and the lightweight design adds to the ease of use, especially when it comes to texting. Our smartphones have become replacements for bulky cameras when it comes to documenting our lives on Instagram, and the HUAWEI nova 7 5G offers uncomplicated shooting paired with uncompromising quality. At the same time, nighttime shooting is seamless thanks to Huawei’s 4-in-1 pixel binning technology that captures more light to produce brighter and clearer photos. The phone also features an 8MP Ultra Wide Angle Lens to capture expansive landscapes or those tricky group shots. The addition of an 8MP Telephoto Lens and a 2MP Macro allows you to shoot in great detail, whether you are up close or far away. Capturing videos, however, is where the HUAWEI nova 7 5G truly
shines and the phone supports high-resolution 4K capture in all settings, including time-lapse. But our favourite feature has to be the new dual-view video mode that allows you to capture footage from both the front and rear cameras at the same time! This is a real game-changer, enabling you to capture selfies and reactions, and will prove particularly useful for YouTubers and vloggers. When it comes to battery life, Huawei devices impress us time and again – and the nova 7 5G is no different. You’ll likely be out and about all day long without having to charge your phone with this one. The hardware and build should also be noted; even after 20 minutes of intense gameplay that pushes the phone to its full capacity, the device does not get hot, an unfortunate reality that we’ve experienced with other devices all too often. Finally, the ease at which content can be shared across your social media platforms should be applauded, for HUAWEI nova 7 5G comes pre-installed with the Huawei AppGallery, meaning all your favourite apps are available for easy download. And further help is at hand through the nifty Petal Search Widget - Find Apps, which currently supports over 40 languages and is available in 45 countries and regions, with plans for wider rollout to even more countries in the future. It will help you find apps that aren’t on the AppGallery, and is now available to download.✤
GO: VISIT HTTPS://CONSUMER.HUAWEI.COM/QA FOR MORE INFORMATION. fact magazine
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CITY RIDES •
THE 2020 MINI COOPER
COUNTRYMAN S ALL4 MINI COOPER CONTINUE THEIR PROUD LEGACY WITH THE LATEST COUNTRYMAN DESIGN.
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• CITY RIDES
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ver the years, we at FACT Qatar have had the privilege of test driving some of the finest motorcar brands to grace the streets. We have however, not had the opportunity to experience the iconic British brand, MINI Cooper, in a test drive setting. That is, until now, when we finally received our chance with the new MINI Cooper Countryman S ALL4. Despite the modern look of the new Countryman, this car is all MINI in all the right places. The typical three-part structure of the vehicle is highlighted by the model-specific roofline, whilst the car’s increased ground clearance and overall upright stature indicate a spacious interior. The distinctive front design is complemented by the newly developed radiator grille, with its hexagonal contours, red “S” and single chrome strut, surrounded by a slim, one-piece chrome frame. The structure of the new bumper covering, now entirely in body finish, adds to the vehicle’s premium appearance, with the distinctive, slightly asymmetrically rounded LED headlamps and LED fog lights fitted as standard. At the flanks, 19-inch Edged Spoke, light alloy wheels with run flat tyres contribute towards the high-end look of the Countryman, whilst at the back end, the rear LED lights with chrome frame, light up in the shape of the Union Jack. As far as the overall body finish is concerned, there is a range of colour and accessory options available, allowing you to customise your MINI to better suit your personality and style. As we eased ourselves into the welcoming comfort of the cabin, the supportive, electrically adjustable, front sport seats with memory function on the driver’s side, ensured we were in the optimum position to enjoy our MINI experience. The sport leather steering wheel has been superbly designed and feels great in hand. All of the materials used are of a high-quality, giving the Countryman a luxurious feel. We were pleasantly surprised by the amount of room on offer, with plenty of head, shoulder and legroom throughout the vehicle, including three fully-fledged seats available in the rear. This feeling of openness is amplified by the Countryman’s tastefully designed, panoramic glass roof. The boot offers 450 litres of storage space, a volume that is increased to 1390 litres when the rear seats are folded down. Plenty of room for a family airport run. The Piano Black interior surfaces for the cockpit and door bezels, along with Dark British Oak accentuation strips are fitted as standard in the Countryman. However, new options and a further developed MINI product range, allow you to increasingly customise your vehicle to match your style. Also available are various leather variants for the upholstery as well as an expanded colour line for the lower section of the instrument panel and door trim. A multitude of equipment feature options are available for this MINI Cooper, including a new digital instrument panel with a 5-inch display that sits behind the steering wheel. The Connected Media and Connected Navigation Plus options are available as an alternative to the basic configuration, both including an 8.8-inch colour touchscreen, located in the central console. The Connected Media option includes a wide range of MINI Connected digital services, ensuring the new MINI Countryman is always online, allowing seamless integration of the voice assistant Amazon Alexa.
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This feature provides access to the Real Time Traffic Information service, the internet platform, MINI Online, as well as preparation for Apple CarPlay. The Connected Navigation Plus option makes available a range of additional infotainment functions and also includes wireless charging for compatible mobile phones. We found these additional features to be functional and easy to navigate. The splendour of the exterior and interior aside, MINI Coopers are best known for the fun they provide on the roads. The MINI Countryman S ALL4 boasts a 2.0 litre, 4-cylinder petrol engine with optimised MINI TwinPower Turbo Technology and emission control that ensures CO2 emissions meet the rigorous 6d Euro emission standard. This model has an engine capacity of 1998 ccs and produces 189 hp. It offers a top speed of 260 km/h and can shoot from 0 – 100 km/h in seven seconds. The 8-speed Sport automatic transmission allows for the seamless shifting of gears and provides the perfect amount of power to the wheels at all times. The ALL 4, all-wheel drive system increases traction, agility and driving stability, allowing one to feel in complete control throughout the driving experience. We thoroughly enjoyed this vehicle and always felt glued to the road, even around tricky bends and tight corners. MINI Cooper has included a host of safety features in the Countryman to ensure the safety of you and your family. These include Parking Assist, Park Distance Control, a rain sensor, cruise control with braking function, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control, as well as a multitude of airbags throughout the vehicle, to name but a few. In fact, the Countryman has been awarded the top 5-star rating for its superior level of safety, in the Euro NCAP crash tests. We found the 2020 MINI Cooper Countryman S ALL4 test drive to be a thoroughly enjoyable experience, one we would highly recommend to all. ✤
CITY RIDES •
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• CITY RIDES
“
DESPITE THE MODERN LOOK OF THE NEW COUNTRYMAN, THIS CAR IS ALL MINI IN ALL THE RIGHT PLACES.”
GO: CALL MINI ALFARDAN AUTOMOBILES SHOWROOM ON +974 4420 8686 TO BOOK A TEST DRIVE OF YOUR OWN. 54
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MAKING WAVES Backstage at the Autumn Winter 2020 show, dunhill reveals an exploration of its new and established codes with an unapologetically expressive campaign entitled The New Wave. fact magazine
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• FASHION FOCUS The old guard and the avant-garde are both celebrated in the latest dunhill collection, where tradition and subversion work together in a distinctly British way. The technical specificity of menswear is celebrated, with British tailoring traditions explored and experimented with, providing a new take on deconstruction. Leitmotifs from previous collections reach a culmination in this one, becoming a settled part of the fabric of dunhill. Codes of class and creativity, of the establishment and the anti-establishment, find form once more. The introduction of pegged trousers in felt and eel skin, a nod to the New Romantics, provide a more relaxed lower half to the silhouette. Standard suiting is eschewed, yet tailoring is both rigorous and sensuous. The wrapped jacket is now also strapped, a subtle play on bondage. Silk knit neckpieces, strong structured shoulders and high break jackets provide a new, sinuous elegance in the upper half. Town and country come together in hints of the equestrian. Luxurious leather outerwear, a tour de force of capes and overcoats in calf and eel, provide drama and yet are engineered and bonded for practicality. Kimono sleeves add to the exploration of volume and structure while the notion of tailoring itself is deconstructed with its secret codes exposed - the inner becoming outer. Here, Melton felt resides under collars, chest canvas and acetate linings emerge, utility is transformed into elegance. Brothel creepers and Link strap loafers provide the grounding, accessorised with the new Lock bags. For Autumn Winter 2020, dunhill introduces three new footwear styles direct from the Paris runway: the dunhill Creeper Derby, Creeper loafer and the dunhill Link loafer. Inspired by the platformsoled creepers associated with British punk culture of the 1970s, the lace-up Creeper Derby and slip-on Creeper loafer are finished in black brushed calf leather for a luxurious take on this distinctly British style. Playing with proportions, the dunhill Link loafer combines a slim leather sole with exaggerated chain link hardware, referencing chain watch straps - a cross between the preppy and the new wave.✤ GO: SHOP THE LATEST COLLECTION AT WWW.DUNHILL.COM
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FASHION FOCUS •
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SHOP THE BRAND HERE’S OUR WISHLIST FROM THE DUNHILL AUTUMN WINTER 2020 COLLECTION FOR HIM
THIS COLLECTION IS AVAILABLE IN DUNHILL STORES ACROSS THE GULF. 58
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QATAR FASHION •
LEVI’S XX CHINO TREND ALERT
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Dress like R&B superstar Khalid with Levi’s XX Chino
s everyone knows, we are living in the age of Dadleisure. Dad sneakers, dad jeans, dad polos—never before has the average middle-aged guy’s wardrobe looked so cool. And, lest we forget, a significant hallmark of that dad style is the humble chino. For Spring/Summer 2020, Levi’s introduces their new non-denim platform for men’s: Levi’s XX Chino. “Your favourite denim brand is now making your favourite chinos. The authentic, cool vibe of our new chino range was inspired part by who we are as an iconic brand and part by being at the centre of culture moments from streetwear to skate. They deliver on fit, comfort, and style, especially when worn with your favourite sneaker” said Janine Chilton-Faust, Global VP of Men’s Design at Levi’s Strauss & Co. Available in Standard Taper, Slim Taper, and Straight Cropped, the Levi’s XX Chino is a more youthful version with a more contemporary fit, plus a bit of stretch for added comfort. In fact, there are two different fabrications — Soft Stretch and Wonderknit — for those looking for either more or less stretch. Both are a perfect way to capitalise on the continuing trend of casualisation with a trouser that offers every bit as much comfort and style as a great pair of Levi’s jeans. The range of colours goes well beyond standard khaki. Although, if khaki is still your jam, there are multiple shades to choose from. The best part about the colour options, however, is that every one of them is garment dyed. This allows for a look and feel that isn’t too crisp or precious, especially after a couple of washes. It’s a perfectly worn-in pair of chinos right from the get-go. And, for the guy who’s looking for something a bit more fashion-forward, the Straight Cropped Levi’s XX Chino comes with a centre front crease for some street style swagger. ✤
GO: VISIT WWW.LEVISTRAUSS.COM FOR MORE INFORMATION. fact magazine
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• BRAND FOCUS
FENTY SKIN REVEALED
THE NEW CULTURE OF SKINCARE HAS ARRIVED WITH THE LAUNCH OF FENTY SKIN FROM RIHANNA.
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enty Skin represents clean, uncomplicated, effective skincare for all. Led by brand CEO Robyn Rihanna Fenty, Fenty Skin is the result of Rihanna’s skincare journey, global experiences and real-life routine. It’s no secret that Rihanna has amazing skin but it hasn’t always come easy. As a teen, she was overwhelmed by all of the skincare options out there and even tried a product that discoloured her skin, which scared her from trying anything else for a long time. Ultimately, after years of global experiences and exposure to so many skincare solutions, Rihanna dreamed of creating a skincare line that was clean, simple, effective, and most importantly, for all. “Fenty Skin is everything I wish I had back then,” she says. “I wanted it to feel approachable, easy, and to take the pressure off choosing a routine, so I created one for everyone.” Fenty Skin launches with three multitasking products that are easy to use and are value-packed with skincare benefits. Known together as the Fenty Skin Start’rs, these three products comprise Rihanna’s real-life routine for getting healthy, glowing skin in just a few simple steps. It’s all designed to complement Fenty Beauty makeup and has been tested on all skin types and tones to work seamlessly. Inspired by her global lifestyle, Rihanna brings together ingredients from around the world and pairs them with skincare powerhouses, such as hyaluronic acid and niacinamide. She’s prioritised clean formulas that are also oil-free, vegan and gluten-free, made with earth-conscious and recyclable materials where possible. Plus, she’s elevated the entire experience with supple, unique textures and warm, delicious scents inspired by the ingredients in each product. Every multitasking product is easy to use and packed with benefits and has been tested on all skin types and tones. It’s for everyone, even the fellas. ✤
GO: VISIT WWW.FENTYSKIN.COM FOR MORE INFORMATION. 60
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Rihanna’s way: Your best skin in three simple steps: Step 1: Wash your face with total cleans’r remove-it-all cleanser for hyper-clean, soft skin without stripping or drying. Step 2: Smooth your way to pore perfection with fat water pore-refining toner serum which instantly refines the look of pores, reduces the look of dark spots and evens skin tone and fights shine without stripping skin. Step 3: Save face with invisible sun protection with hydra vizor invisible moisturiser broad spectrum SPF 30 sunscreen for light-as-air hydration and invisible sun protection that defends and brightens the skin while reducing the look of pores.
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• BEAUTY BOX
Beauty Checklist THIS MONTH’S BEAUTY GAME IS SERIOUSLY STRONG.
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This serum contains over one billion live probiotic microbes per millilitre that are activated on contact with water on the skin and, once active, equip the skin to rectify imbalances and strengthen barrier function for a firmer, more resilient skin. The serum is suitable for all skin types and through its highly evolved action of creating biological equilibrium, it is exceptionally effective for skin that is showing any form of stress.
CODAGE MOISTURISING MASK This moisturising mask offers an intensely nourishing emulsion that regenerates and moisturises dry skin. This complete and nourishing skincare product is enriched with oils and plant-based waxes and will strengthen the hydrolipidic layer and reconstruct the cutaneous barrier. An enzymatic peel gently acts to stimulate cell renewal and bring radiance back to the complexion. Within a few minutes, the skin is comfortable, soft to touch and perfectly glowing.
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ESSE PROBIOTIC SERUM
BEST FACE FORWARD FOAMING CLEANSER This fresh, foaming gel cleanser washes away oil and impurities for a sparkling, clear complexion. Green tea and chamomile pacify while passionfruit balances the skin to leave you looking clean, clear and healthy every day.
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PHILIP KINGSLEY ELASTICIZER THERAPIES
Seeking something for extremely damaged hair? This super moisturising intensive treatment adds silkiness, suppleness, elasticity, bounce and strength, and the clever ingredient combination continues to provide UV protection – even after washing..
FENTY BEAUTY
LAURA MERCIER
BROW MVP BROW SCULPTING WAX PENCIL AND STYLER
ILLUMINATING EYE CREAM
This clear, universal brow wax features an easy-grip pencil as well as a sweat-and water-resistant formula that shapes and sets with a long-wear, flexible-but-firm hold. The truly clear formula is suitable for all hair colours and keeps brows on lock without residue or flakiness. Plus, the smart angled tip and built-in brush help you easily shape your brows for a range of styles from groomed definition to feathered and everything in between.
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FORMULA 10.0.6
This innovative formula combines the benefits of an eye serum and eye cream to deliver instant and lasting hydration, helping to reduce the appearance of fine lines. The lightweight yet richly nourishing cream helps to reduce the appearance of dryness, puffiness and dark circles to promote a more energised and youthful-looking complexion.
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GROOMING BOX •
Grooming Checklist FROM ANTI-AGEING EYE CREAM TO CONDITIONING BEARD OIL, HERE ARE OUR PRODUCTS OF THE MONTH…
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PARFUMS DE MARLY PEGASUS EXCLUSIF
Pegasus Exclusif has set off in pursuit of new masculinity and this fragrance bears the stamp of the contemporary man. With distinguishing marks of serene virility and exhilarating power, this unique creation embodies the sensuality of vanilla, infused with a twist of amber, sandalwood, natural oud and guaiac. Combined with floral heart notes of jasmine, lavender, bitter almond and geranium and a fine balance of fruits and spices including bergamot, pink pepper, cardamom and heliotrope, Pegasus Exclusif is a must-have fall fragrance.
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ESSE REFINING CLEANSER Esse Refining Cleanser is a lightly foaming clay wash that exfoliates while detoxifying. Bentonite clay particles act as superfine exfoliating granules while drawing out toxins, while Kalahari Melon oil adds essential omega-6 fatty acids to help maintain the skin’s lipid balance.
CODAGE FALL IN LOVE SERUM Fall In Love is the special fall edition to recharge the skin with essential resources before the arrival of winter. Moisturising, repairing, and antipollution, this serum helps to rebuild the skin’s matrix and equips it with all the necessary defences to effectively face the harsh seasonal changes ahead effectively. Detoxifying, energising and anti-blemish active ingredients deeply purify the skin to smooth out sunrelated pigmentation problems.
LIVING NATURE SOOTHING AFTERSHAVE GEL
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A soft gel that utilises the exceptional properties of Harakeke Flax Gel and Active Manuka Honey to hydrate and restores vitality to the skin. A cooling infusion of Calendula Oil and Witchhazel helps to soothe the skin after shaving. Native to New Zealand, the gel from Harakeke Flax is proven to be more hydrating than aloe vera. This, coupled with its cooling, calming and antimicrobial properties, helps purify the skin, while the miracle healer Active Manuka Honey helps nourish and restore vitality. Soothe, hydrate and refresh the skin, shave after shave.
PERRIS SKIN FITNESS The Skin Fitness eye cream is a high-performance all-natural skincare with multiple benefits and boasts clinically proven results. The skin feels more comfortable and well-hydrated thanks to this premium formula that offers an optimum effect on the skin. After continuous use, it provides skin with 24-hour hydration and will help minimise and diminish wrinkles, puffiness and dark circles.
TOM FORD CONDITIONING BEARD OIL The key to a well-kept beard is daily grooming and conditioning. This beard oil from Tom Ford conditions, softens and nourishes the beard with a lightweight blend of almond, jojoba and grapeseed oils as well as vitamin E. It is available in three iconic Tom Ford private blend scents: Oud Wood, Neroli Portofino and Tobacco Vanille.
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• HOME STYLE
HOW TO INCREASE THE ELEGANCE OF YOUR HOME Chattels & More and KARE’s Interior Designer Madeleine Lätti shares her top home styling tips. PUT THE CLUTTER AWAY AND CELEBRATE LARGER STORAGE PIECES: The least elegant aspect of a home is the clutter. Whether or not you believe the clutter is organised, to newcomers into your home, this represents a tiring atmosphere. Unfortunately, it is very easy for clutter to gather on a particular console or corner shelving unit of the house. Therefore, it is important to take a step back and re-evaluate whether these items need to be on display. A great way to begin adding elegance to your home is by purchasing a storage décor piece that has a beautiful exterior yet has enough storage and cabinet doors to hide the clutter. This way, you can minimise the visual distractions and appreciate your new décor piece and carefully chosen statement sculptures and accessories. By assigning a new hidden spot for your clutter, you can begin to celebrate the particular décor pieces that you are proud of. ADD UNIQUE PIECES WITH INTRICATE TEXTURES, PATTERNS, AND SHAPES: When wanting to add sophistication to your home, it may be worth saving to purchase truly unique pieces. This method of decorating your home will be worth it in the long term because it will ensure that you are satisfied with the grace that your home exudes. It may be difficult when starting to explore which items you will patiently wait to splurge on. The initial gut feeling towards a specific décor item is worth keeping. Once you have found a piece to fawn over, you can begin to investigate the different characteristics of this piece. A unique piece is not limited to large scale items; an item as unexpected as a cushion can transform the entire living area based on the intricate details that make it different. The texture, pattern, and shape of the piece are what drew you towards it in the first place. Therefore, this piece would bring that sense of style to your home in the same way you felt when you first saw it. Focusing on fewer décor pieces that stand out to you will bring a sense of elegance to your home that cannot be achieved through hundreds of mediocre pieces that don’t feel truly special to you. However, be cautious when purchasing new items and make sure to examine how this new décor will fit in your existing space. Will it clash with other unique pieces you have gathered over the years, or will it add an eyecatching moment to a dull corner of your home? 64
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WARM LIGHTING AT DIFFERENT HEIGHTS: Lighting is a tool that can help you achieve any design direction or style in your home. The way in which you use light and the type of lighting used individually affects the outcome of your home’s atmosphere. Therefore, it is vital to make a plan of which type of lighting is needed in order to attain the elegance you are going for. There is a standard set of lighting pieces that are known as the “quick buy” items as lighting can often be underestimated when beginning to settle into your new home. This is why, often, lighting is the first item replaced when trying to add grace to your space. Purchasing lighting that brings elegance to your home does not necessarily need to break the bank. It is possible to transform your existing lighting by replacing an old shade, looking at second-hand pieces online, or even swapping out the bulb to get that warm lighting your home has been lacking! When purchasing new lighting, a chandelier is always successful at adding a bold vision in your home, whether it is a modern
When selecting wall-coverings and paints for your walls, make sure to pay attention to the existing hard finishes and fabrics present in your home. For example, if there is a lot of dark wood in your space, avoid selecting a dark wood wallpaper as most often you end up with a slightly off-colour that clashes the entire space. In situations like this, it is safe and successful to go towards a more muted linear pattern in a colour that flatters the existing wood, such as burgundy. On the other hand, if you have a lot of light-coloured stone finishes in your home and want to add a touch of elegance to the space, you can use muted pastel green and taupe wall-coverings and paints to create a delicate statement wall as a backdrop to a more rugged dining table. Understated hues in paint or wall-covering colours add instant elegance to any home and pair exceedingly well with flowing drapery.
or classical style, a chandelier stands out and brings grace to a room filled with minimal or standard furniture. It is important to have lighting present at all heights of your home. Lighting at different heights brings a visual interest point when overlooking the space; therefore table, floor, wall, and ceiling lamps are all vital aspects to consider when searching for new pieces. Elegance can be represented in all different design directions; however, focusing on warm lighting is always vital when trying to achieve elegance in any design.
Drapery and window treatments in general can be overlooked when designing your home. Conversely, they are an essential aspect of achieving the design direction and elegance you want to depict. It is easy to select a cheap drapery that solves the issue of blocking the sunlight out, but these items may end up being the only issue stopping your home from representing grace and elegance. Flimsy materials can leave your windows looking messy and unkempt. Materials that are well known to achieve sophistication are natural silk, linen, and cotton. These materials flow beautifully and effortlessly add a refined classiness to the walls and windows. Luckily it is quite inexpensive to find these materials when selecting drapery but it is important to explore different ways in which the curtains can be hung to select your favourite style that you love and they will, in turn, bring elegance to your existing space. There are other window treatments available such as roller blinds, bamboo shades, or even wooden shutters. These are all alternative means to window treatment that can still add elegance to your home as long as you prioritise quality and your existing space. ✤
PAINT IN THE RIGHT TONES: When people think of elegance, they might automatically think of floral-patterned wall-coverings against walls but in the modern-day, elegance can range in all different types of wallcoverings and paints.
SELECTING THE RIGHT DRAPERY:
GO: VISIT WWW.KARE-DESIGN.COM FOR MORE INFORMATION.
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FOOD DIARIES •
IRRESISTIBLE IDAM
IDAM situated on the fifth floor of the Museum of Islamic Art is Alain Ducasse’s first restaurant opening in the region. FACT’s Craig Ferriman visits Doha’s fine dining favourite. fact magazine
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• FOOD DIARIES
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t has been a challenging year for all of us but one of the things I had missed the most was fine dining. IDAM has always kept the bar extremely high in Doha and it’s fitting that you’ll find this awardwinning restaurant in a place of unique architectural accomplishment - the Museum of Islamic Art. We were fortunate to get a table right in the middle of the restaurant with a view that defies art. Looking out through the window was quite literally the picture-postcard view of the iconic Doha skyline in West Bay. We experienced the set menu which allowed for a real exploration of IDAM’s repertoire. It’s called the Experience Menu. Credit should be given for its sourcing of local produce. The finest fresh breads were brought out as we got comfortable and a couple of amuse bouche plates were presented as well as a chickpea harira soup like you’ve never eaten before. We began with a grilled duck foie gras with peach and rosemary. It goes without saying that this is always a rare treat. Then we were served roasted local shrimps tucked inside saffron parpadelle with lemongrass cooking jus drizzled over it. The combination was heavenly. A long thin slate of locally caught hammour neatly and delicately presented with tender herbs and baby carrots came next. The attention to detail was striking and the result was a pleasure on the palate. The softly spiced deboned lamb chop was itself unusual because one normally eats it straight off the bone but in fine dining fashion, this was elegantly prepared with small spelt and aubergine and sat in its own cooking juice. The dessert sounds simple but it was so splendid. Puffed up and poking out of a white bowl was a date souffle served with a dainty dollop of laban ice cream. I literally tapped the top of the baked crust and there below was the tastiest souffle. I like dates and I like souffle but I had never before seen, thought of or tasted date souffle. It was sublime. Something that really stood out for me were the beverage pairings. Considerable thought went into matching the mocktails to the dishes we ate. In addition, their mocktails are outstanding which is something I rarely find myself able to say. I forget the exact order but we tried several signature mocktails. The ‘Qatari flag’ is a combination of lychee, raspberry and lime where the balance of the ingredients was superb. The ‘wild lavender’ was the masterfully concocted mixture of hibiscus, pomegranate, lemon and lavender and the ‘healthy cucumber’ went perfectly with our shrimps. Served in a wide-rimmed glass, it has the most refreshing taste that combines a fresh blend of cucumber, green apple and lemon. The service is first class with a well trained and highly knowledgeable staff who understand the intricacies of the menu and what the chef is trying to achieve. For fine dining, it doesn’t get much better than this. ✤
GO: CALL +974 4422 4488 FOR BOOKINGS AND MORE INFORMATION. 68
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FOOD DIARIES •
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For the culture-savvy in Qatar
SEPTEMBER 2020 EDITION AVAILABLE NOW on issuu.com/factmagazine 70
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FOODIE CORNER •
CAPTIVATING CROSSROADS
Crossroads Kitchen celebrates a culinary journey across five continents. FACT’s Craig Ferriman visits for a dining experience that conveys authenticity, innovative cooking and modern design in a cosy restaurant atmosphere. fact magazine
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• FOODIE CORNER
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ost-lockdown dining has forced some habits to change. With not every outlet open we’ve been encouraged to check out places we might previously have not thought to. Crossroads Kitchen at the Marriott Marquis City Center Doha Hotel was always synonymous in my mind for the big breakfast and brilliant buffets offered. If staying on a business trip at the hotel, I would happily go there but ordinarily, it’s not somewhere I thought to go socially. Things have changed. Crossroads Kitchen has changed. I got quite a surprise when I recently ate there with friends. Where there was previously a vast swathe of square meterage unused as dead space on level three, now there is a bar that acts as an atrium to the main restaurant. An evening of possibilities awaits whether it’s just a quick beverage after work with friends or a pre-supper drink before dining in the main dining room. Crossroads Kitchen opens up many more avenues now! The bar itself has large sports screens with good resolution. We caught the end of a European Football league game during the “Power Hour” which lasts from 5pm to 8pm. Regulars there told us that with Champions sports bar currently closed, this is a great place to watch sport in the city centre socially and it was popular too, which was a plus point. Fresh minds have reinvigorated Crossroads Kitchen and given it a sense of occasion. The week is divided into theme nights. For example, on Monday it’s Curries of Africa, on Tuesday it’s street kebabs night. I turned up on a Wednesday, so it was fish and chips on the table. Full disclosure, I am English, so this was very much my favourite dish growing up and I felt more than qualified to give this the taste test. It’s a stereotype that has travelled around the world that Brits love their fish and chips. I sensed this theme night was certainly marketed at a British expat audience but actually all our welcome and based on how impressive and authentic it was, everyone should try it. Getting the fish right is important. I cut through the crispy batter ready for some North Sea cod or possibly haddock to flake apart. I won’t spoil the surprise but they scored the seas for a sufficient substitute that retains the authentic essence of the North sea white fish. The chips were that old fashioned kind, chopped from real potatoes and cooked in oil. I doused mine in vinegar. Sauces are a source of great discussion for Brits. Northerners go wild for their curry sauce which they’ll dunk on the chips. Southerners tend to take tartare sauce with the fish. Mushy peas are a crucial side and they’ve worked very hard to get the consistency of it just right. The dish is served on a metal bowl covered in a sheet of paper to evoke 72
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the British seaside tradition of eating it out of old newspaper. The food arrives fresh, piping hot and with a juicy lemon to squeeze over the fish. At QR65, this makes it competitively priced because I don’t think you’ll find this national dish cheaper anywhere else. ✤
GO: CALL +974 4419 5000 FOR BOOKINGS AND MORE INFORMATION. fact magazine
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ON THE MENU •
MAJESTIC MEZZO Mezzo offers a blend of Arabic, Indian and international dishes prepared from a lively open kitchen. FACT’s Craig Ferriman visits for a dinner with a difference. fact magazine
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ezzo is the lobby level restaurant in the ornate and prestigious AlRayyan Hotel, part of the Curio Collection by Hilton. It is designed with stunning opulence and decadent grandeur. It is attached to the Mall of Qatar. What better way to treat yourself after a day of shopping. Mezzo caters to both Arabic and international tastebuds. On my visit, I focused on the former. We were offered complimentary mini lamb shawarmas on arrival, which acted as a little amuse-bouche. Cold mezze dishes got us going. A bread basket of pittas and rolls arrived with bowls of hummus, tabbouleh, fattoush, moutabel and baba ganouche. All were fresh and very tasty. I really enjoyed the hot mezze which featured lamb and cheese sambousek, spinach fatayer, lamb kibbeh as well as cheese and zaatar manakish. There was labneh brought with it but what I really appreciated were the sauces put in the middle of the table, especially the pomegranate sauce made in house which drizzled beautifully over lamb kibbeh. Mashawi mushakale was a shrewd selection for the main course. It’s essentially a classic mixed grill featuring shish kebab, kofta kebab, shish taouk but by far the thing to write home about were the lamb chops. Superbly seasoned and insanely delicious. It was more than enough for two people so an ideal sharing dish. I did try out more things though to get a real sense of the place. If you like sharing, the seafood platter is incredible. It definitely gave people plenty of FOMO when they saw snaps on my Instagram. It featured lobster, shrimps, scallops and squid. Side sauces included lemon butter and garlic sauce, which were great with the lobster. Of course, you don’t have to share! The menu is filled with popular favourites including chicken biryani, lamb tagine and shish taouk. I met some of the staff, including the chef. The kitchen is talented and versatile as it also manages to offer a wide selection of international dishes from pizzas cooked in their giant oven, to Italian dishes and universal favourites like a chicken shawarma or a mean beef burger. I barely had room for dessert on my visit but I dipped my spoon in their Um Ali, which was good but the aish el saraya really suited my mood. It’s pistachio and orange blossoms served with berry skewers were more subtle in flavour and the ideal finish for me. The mocktail menu was fairly short and standard but the drinks were made well. Staff were very attentive and welcoming and couldn’t do enough
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for us. I left feeling very happy and delighted to return. My only advice would be to visit after your shopping. If you don’t, you may lose all interest in getting the retail part done and get totally derailed in Mezzo. ✤
GO: CALL +974 4489 9000 FOR BOOKINGS AND MORE INFORMATION.
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CHEF IN FOCUS •
CHEF IN FOCUS: BINIT PANDEY Drawing on the diversity of India’s regional cuisines, Dalchini Restaurant at Centara West Bay Hotel & Residences Doha serves a selection of progressive Indian dishes in a modern atmosphere. FACT catches up with the hotels Executive Chef, Binit Pandey to talk about all things food. fact magazine
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Why did you decide to become a chef? My mother was a fantastic cook, I understood the power of food when I was just a kid, just observing my family and friends coming home to relish food made by Mom. Food was the center point. It inspired me to study hotel management and very organically I got inclined towards the kitchen because of my food experience as a kid which I always wanted to replicate for people around me. Tell us a little bit about Dalchini and why you love to cook Indian cuisine? At Dalchini we take inspiration from India’s exotic culinary history and the explosion of ideas that emerged from the exchange of spices, philosophies and cultures. At Dalchini I can execute my take on modern Indian food it’s a combination of the recipes and cooking techniques from my upbringing, with twists I’ve picked up along the way of my culinary journey. I also adapt traditional Indian recipes to incorporate seasonal ingredients. How do you source the ingredients for the restaurant? Do you focus on locally sourced or sustainable produce? We are sourcing the good quality ingredients available locally be it vegetables or seafood. However, most of the ingredients comes from outside Qatar from the approved supplier which I work very closely with, to maintain the quality. What was it about the cuisine at Dalchini that resonates so much with diners in Doha? It’s our global take on Indian cuisine and diversity of our menu where we have options for different palate. What is your favourite cuisine to cook? Indian Food, however, I love to cook Thai food too. What do you do to stay current on new trends? Chef’s blogs, cooking and food websites, social media and dining out in the new restaurants helps me to keep updated with the current food trends. How do you feel about creating dishes purely for Instagram? Instagram is a major marketing tool and there is no harm in creating the dish which looks visually stunning and it also gives opportunity to a chef to create something out of the menu. What’s the greatest honor or compliment you’ve received as a chef? I was invited as a guest chef to cook and showcase Indian food in a 2 Micheline star restaurant called Le noir in Saarbrucken, Germany. What matters more – taste or presentation? For me taste is the foundation of any dish and it matters the most. 80
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At Dalchini we take inspiration from India’s exotic culinary history and the explosion of ideas that emerged from the exchange of spices, philosophies and cultures.”
Do you have any quick advice for young budding chefs? Believe in hard work and be your best and worst critic. Get good experience; pick the kitchen where you can learn and enhance skills. Don’t get comfortable in one kitchen; this will limit your work style. Put in the time that’s needed to learn the trade. Describe your culinary philosophy. For me cooking is all about imbibing different cultures and putting them on the plate. Some dishes can be visually stunning, and some will be remembered for the simplistic brilliance. If you could dine at any restaurant in the world, where would you go? Sukiyabashi Jiro, Tokyo, Japan.
What can diners expect to taste and enjoy when dining at Centara – what are some of the signature dishes that you serve? Diners can experience true taste of Indian food with a fine balance of authenticity and creativity. Our must try dishes from the menu are, Dalchini pepper chicken, Spiced lamb chops, Malabar seabass and Kale chaat. Any offer at the moment? Offers: Discounted prices on selected beverage and Indian tapas Dalchini Social Brunch- starting from 28th August 2020
What’s the inspiration behind the menu at Centara? The menu revolves around the ideology of Heritage, Health and Happiness.
Who do you admire most in the culinary world, and why? There are 3 chefs whom I admire a lot Heston Blumenthal, René Redzepi and Gaggan Anand I have learned a lot from following what these chefs are doing and taking inspiration from their work. ✤
How often do you eat out and what’s your favourite. restaurant in Doha? I eat out at least two to three times a week and Nobu at Four Seasons is my favourite.
GO: VISIT WWW.CENTARAHOTELSRESORTS.COM/CENTARA/ CWQ FOR MORE INFORMATION. fact magazine
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• MATTER OF FACT
What We’re (Still) Talking About Gucci
Can mascara change the world? Apparently. The world of fashion and beauty may be synonymous with superficiality, but Gucci – courtesy of its Mascara L'Obscur – made waves by selecting an 18-year-old model with Down syndrome named Ellie Goldstein to star in a Gucci Beauty campaign. Entitled Unconventional Beauty, the campaign celebrates the type of beauty we don't expect to see in mainstream media. In an exclusive chat with FACT, cofounder and director Zoe Proctor of Zebedee (the modelling agency that represents Ellie) explained her mission. “We want to increase the positive representation of disabled people in fashion, beauty, advertising, and wider media. Representation matters, and it leads to a greater acceptance of disability in the wider society, which in turn creates a kinder place for us to live. When Ellie booked the campaign, we were proud of her and ourselves. We were finally getting representation in luxury brands. The campaign has changed her life and shown other brands that inclusive casting is the way forward.” Since catching the world's attention, the disabled model has revealed that she aspires to "be on the front cover of magazines" while her presence on Gucci Beauty's Instagram account continues to garner more likes than any other post. 82
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Shelter
A new "Netflix for design nerds" streaming service has launched, bringing with it hundreds of hours worth of content showcasing the best in architecture, design, lifestyle, and outdoor living – think: TV shows, shortform videos, documentaries like Tadao Ando: From Emptiness to Infinity, and original programming such as Inspired Architecture. But there's more. Videos from your favourite home and design magazines are also on the roster, with downloaded videos accessible for 30 days offline. Available globally, Shelter was created by Australian actor Dustin Clare, who explained the correlation between the pandemic and the streaming service. “The reality of lockdown has made us re-examine our connection to home, our immediate environment, and the world around us. Through Shelter, we invite viewers to explore, be inspired, be entertained and engrossed and, most of all, be engaged with the world of architecture, design, lifestyle, and outdoor living,” he said in a statement. Shelter is currently live on App Store and Google Play for streaming across computers, phones, and tablets. Bonus: a tree will be planted by non-profit organisation Eden Reforestation Projects to represent every single subscriber. Win-win.
TikTok
Even if you have yet to clean your bathtub with grapefruit or use a plastic water bottle to separate egg whites from yolks, the saga that is the sale of TikTok is worth keeping up with. At one point, Microsoft was in talks to buy the US operations of the controversial social media app. As was Twitter. As was Oracle. For the uninitiated, US President Donald Trump recently said he would ban TikTok if parent company ByteDance did not sell its US operations, citing concerns over national security – merely weeks after India banned it. American teenagers, meanwhile, can't fathom a world without the Chineseowned app. The latest statistics indicate that TikTok boasts roughly 85 million monthly active users in the US, 60 per cent of whom are between the ages of 16-24. On the losing end of this argument, they’ve spent the last few weeks reacting to the potential ban with what they do best: posting memes, memes, and more memes. One even flaunted her scanty bank balance to prove she has no personal data worth stealing. Through it all, TikTok stands by its initial statement, insisting that it does not share the data of its American users with the Chinese government. Watch this space.
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