Ohlala Qatar February 2021

EDITOR

Fernanda Langhammer

SUB EDITOR

Samia Qaiyum

DIGITAL EDITOR

Sara Waddah

CONTRIBUTORS

Amica Sicilia

Craig Ferriman

Gareth Woods

Lindsey Steenkamp

PRODUCTION MANAGER

Neil Mahmood

DISTRIBUTION MANAGER

Ajit Kumar

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

Greg Hughes

PUBLISHER

Rami Khalil

PUBLISHING DIRECTOR

Chirine Halabi

SENIOR GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Jyoti Rawat

CREDITS IMAGE

Tiffany & Co.

COVER IMAGE

Noor Al Bahrani

PHOTOGRAPHY CONTRIBUTOR

Sudheesh Kollaroth

WEBSITE DESIGNER & DEVELOPER

Ammar Ali

ACCOUNTANTS

Gigimon Thankachen

Praveen Alexander

DISTRIBUTION

Qatar – Dar Al Sharq

DISTRIBUTION TEAM

Rajesh Noushad

PRINTING PRESS

Al Anan Printing Press, Oman

ENQUIRIES

Publishing Director: chirine@fact-magazine.com

Office: +974 4421 3089 Mobile: +974 3303 3475

No part of this publication may be reproduced without the written permission of the publisher. All Rights Reserved. The views expressed in this magazine are not necessarily the views of the publisher. Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained in this publication. However, Ohlala Publishing and all of its publications cannot accept legal responsibility for any error, content or omissions.

Editor’s Letter Style Focus But First, Balance

48

Tone Up Taking the Brow Plunge OHLALA Spa & Wellness Awards winners

The Great(est) Escape Chic Eats

Diva Drives: Porsche Cayenne Coupé GTS

TIFFANY & CO.

The most romantic month of the year is here and ‘love and be loved’ (mostly by yourself) is the motto! Our fashion pages (p.18) are filled with the transitional pieces to wear now – go for warm knitwear and tent-dresses. We talk about looking fantastic, but don’t forget to keep your inner self well-cultivated too. Feeling fabulous at any age is all about having the right attitude; followed by nutrition, movement and peace of mind (p.38). In the beauty department, you will find our Spa and Wellness Awards winners, Hooray! (p.62) We’ve also uncovered the mysteries behind toners (p.48), learned about a new natural treatment (p.50), explored microblading (p.52), had our hair and nails transformed (p.54) and relaxed in a session dedicated to massaging the body and treating the face (p.58). Yes, we’ve been pampered to bring you our first-hand take! After indulging in so much self-care, we note that the Maldives is welcoming Middle Eastern residents and a ticket to paradise is all we want! We’ve picked four resorts with special features that are worth a visit (p.66). While nourishing our minds with the thought of touching white Maldivian sands, our appetites hit overdrive and we delved into Cantonese (p.72) and South American (p.74) cuisines. Sending you love and happy reading!

Fernanda Langhammer Editor

Wind of Change

A chilly breeze is still blowing in the (not so cold) Middle Eastern winter. However, Resort 2021 collections are out there, and Spring/Summer 2021 pieces are ready to invade the racks and shelves of your favourite stores – most of which have embraced the digital age. We can tell that you that comfort is key, this time accented by creative compositions and dramatic ruffles. Here’s a glimpse into what you’ll be wearing in the months ahead.

ZIMMERMANN

A key item in transitional clothing, knitwear is a staple of winter and practically mandatory for a laidback look. But how about a pair of knit trousers for a change?

CENTRED BY BREATH

DOUBLE UP OFFER

Brighten and refine your skin at Quan Spa. Buy two Quan Spa massages and get one massage free.

Terms and Conditions: This promotion is valid until 31st March 2021. Advance reservation is required.

InandOut

After a year of mostly staying home, comfy tent-like dresses in silk and shirting in cotton have become an obsession! They are suitable for the outside world, but still cosy enough for a binge session on the couch.

BALENCIAGA

MAX MARA

OSCAR DE LA RENTA

TALLER MARMO

VALENTINO

WEEKEND MAX MARA

TORY BURCH

A PRIVILEGE CLUB LIKE NO OTHER

Introducing a premier membership programme designed to elevate your dining experience with 25% o food & 15% o beverages, among other exclusive members only benefits.

Sign up for your IDine membership and receive:

• One complimentary room night • Pool and beach access for two

• 30 minute massage at Spa InterContinental

• 10% o Manko and La Mar

• 50% o on the F&B bill for your birthday & one special occasion

Get IDine for only QR 990, valid for one year from date of purchase.

Download IDine on the App Store or Google Play. Call 4484 4919 or email fb.icdoha@ihg.com to learn more.

Terms and Conditions apply

Country City Meets

Mixing key elements from the countryside dress code such as floral and white-cotton dresses and boots with tailored pieces and structural handbags is the aesthetic we never knew we needed.

CH CAROLINA HERRERA

CHRISTIAN DIOR

MARINA RINALDI

OLIVIA VON HALLE

ERMANNO SCERVINO

PRADA

TORY BURCH

Focus

Flair for Drama

Rufflesare(onceagain)stealingthe fashionspotlightwiththeirundeniable presence.Skirts,tops,anddressesget layeredtoembracetheseasonaheadwith frills – and lots of them.

BALMAIN

TANYA TAYLOR

ULLA JOHNSON

PHILOSOPHY DI LORENZO SERAFINI

GRETA CONSTANTINE

GIAMBATTISTA VALLI

ZIMMERMANN

Multi-Club Fitness Membership at The Business Park

Recharge. Refresh. Relax. Enjoy flexible access options to our exclusive health clubs in both Crowne Plaza Doha and Holiday Inn Doha - The Business Park.

Our health club facilities include fully equipped gyms and temperature-controlled outdoor swimming pools. Sauna and steam room are also accessible at The Crowne Spa located at Crowne Plaza Doha - The Business Park.

THIS SPORTS MONTH, SAVE 50% OFF REGULAR MEMBERSHIP RATES WHEN YOU SIGN UP WITH A FRIEND. Offer valid until 28th February, 2021.

Focus

BlueTrue

Think of the sky on a very clear day – now paint your entire look in that shade of blue. Not one for monochrome? Pair your look with white pieces to add a sense of fluffy clouds in this dreamy scenario.

BOSS

BOSS

ELIE SAAB

TORY BURCH

BlossomsDesert

Noor Al Bahrani looks to a symbolic flower from the region for Spring/Summer 2021.

@noor.albahrani

The arid soil of a desert landscape is not a very rich one, and the lack of water makes it even harsher. It’s solely resilient plants that survive in such conditions, and there is one that excels not only with life, but also beauty: the desert rose. Its vibrant pink colour palette serves as an inspiration for Noor Al Bahrani’s delicate yet confident Spring/Summer 2021 collection.

The pieces feature flowy silhouettes and exude sophistication, with distinctive embroidery highlighting the inspiration. This season, Noor Al Bahrani presents statement details such as tulle capes and detachable tulle sleeves. Meanwhile, tone-

on-tone flowers handcrafted from feathers adorn kaftans next to elegant lace for an opulent aesthetic. The feminine designs are paired with delicately embellished belts and floral brocade for a romantic final touch.

The hues visited by the designer are rose, blush, and sky fused with aqua and dune, the latter duo representing an oasis found in the desert’s depths. Lavish fabrics such as silk and chiffon receive touches of lace, crepe, and tulle for a dainty effect. A selection of kidswear has also been introduced in this collection for a trendy mommy-and-me look – both boasting the mysterious beauty of the desert.

JEWELLERY Edit

Timeless Gems

The tulle decoration, one of Buccellati’s signatures, brings a quintessential touch to the Opera collection.

Buccellati is celebrated for its craftsmanship, design and unrivalled masterpieces. Renowned as one of the world’s high jewellery houses, the brand prides itself in its use of rare stones focusing on colour. A unique characteristic amongst fine jewellery makers. Buccellati jewels are also known for their engraving techniques, dating back to the ancient traditions of the goldsmith’s ateliers of the Italian Renaissance.

To praise Buccellati singular skills, the Opera collection gets a new interpretation with a radial tulle layer to give life to the Opera “Tulle”; the series combines tradition with originality. The iconic logo, a symbol of the Opera set, becomes an authentic protagonist and is fixed with semi-precious stones (such as onyx and mother-of-pearl), coloured enamels, or even left unset to exalt the lightness of the tulle craftsmanship. The collection includes rings, sautoirs, flexible and bangle bracelets, and pendant and button earrings. All versions are available with or without diamonds.

The enamelling artistry is rooted in the goldsmithing praxis of the Greeks and Romans. During the Byzantine era, this practice became popular and was used to decorate churches, cathedrals and domes, cups, vessels, and copper pitchers. In the 19th and 20th centuries, refined enamel decorations started to be applied on watches, cases and snuff boxes.

Buccellati revives the enamelling traditions and uses them to create a new decorative element, full of charm and elegance. The method involves gold being covered with a homogeneous lacquer layer, successively cooked and fixed to the metal surface. The mastery behind these delicate pieces makes them extra special.

For more information, please call Buccellati boutique at 4427 7778.

www.alibinali.com

@alibinali_luxury

First,

But Balance

Beauty goes beyond how many trips around the sun you’ve completed, it’s more about how you’ve been spending those days –because balance is the key to bliss at any age.

The pursuit of beauty is an endless one, and has changed – and will continue to change – over the years. Each new decade brings with it new trends for an ideal look, only now that ideal look seems to change yearly and sometimes monthly, courtesy of fashion and beauty influencers. According to Forbes, the beauty industry is worth 532 billion dollars and on a growing path. Experts say that it has resisted the recession – not even the pandemic was able to put a damper on its bright future. A lot of people consider cosmetic products to be essential and, despite being price-conscious during these times, customers don’t stop buying them.

We all want a younger-looking face and flawless complexion and, somewhere between the products and treatments on offer, makeup tricks, and lots of selfdiscipline, these goals might be achievable. However, it’s impossible to guarantee that you will look young forever, even if you go down the invasive procedures route. The cosmetic and body treatments universe is vast, while and the cosmetic surgery landscape – be it micro or macro – stretches the possibilities even further.

Yes, you will probably succeed in achieving a porcelain face, but the effects aren’t eternal, and you’ll have to dedicate your life to keeping it updated. Not everyone’s cup of tea. But we can’t deny that we like beautiful things and secretly love hearing, “Oh honey, you don’t look 40, you look like you are 35 maximum.” And then you think, wow, 40 minutes of layering product over product, night after night, for all those years is finally paying off.

Maturing Process

Ageing is something that will come to us all and how we deal with this certainty is what really matters. And the ageing aspect doesn’t happen only to our faces, but also in our bodies as a whole. We believe that there are two main aspects to growing older in harmony: our bodies and our minds. They are not two separate parts of us, but one big mechanism, and they have to work together for better functionality. “Our bodies are magical; they are very simple yet incredibly complicated. Everything is intertwined, each and every part participates in this very meticulous dance,” says Ouiam El Hassani, a holistic nutritionist who specialises in women’s health and happens to be a tai chi and qigong teacher.

Nutrition

Your diet is directly related to what your body needs and if it is receiving the right nourishment, then it will function well. Otherwise, it will send signals to warn you, your skin being the first to sound the

alarm. “Hormones are a significant component in the equation. I would go as far as to say that they are actually a deal-breaker when it comes to skin condition,” says Ouiam. “They are also the cause of unhealthy hair and nails, so if you want glowing skin, hair, and nails, your primary focus should be your hormones. The most effective way to regulate them is through what you eat.”

To balance your hormones, you have to take your gut health in consideration. To do so, Ouiam offers a word of advice:

- Focus on food high in fatty acids

- Have plenty of fibre

- Ingest foods high in fat-soluble vitamins (beef liver, kale, spinach, carrots, cantaloupe)

- Opt for food rich in antioxidants and minerals (berries, cacao)

- Pick foods with silica (banana, oats, raisins, green beans, leeks, brown rice)

- Eat food with astaxanthin (salmon, rainbow trout, shrimp, krill)

- Have meals rich in vitamin A (liver, eggs, sweet potatoes), vitamin E (sunflower seeds, almonds, spinach), and copper (oyster, dark chocolate, mushrooms)

- Get plenty of zinc (miso, beans, nutritional yeast, broccoli)

Mind

The phrase mens sana in corpore sano was coined at the end of the 1st century by Roman poet Juvenal and means ‘a healthy mind in a healthy body’. Even back then, the poet understood the link between these two parts of who we are. “I believe that the body and mind have a symbiotic relationship. Solely giving attention to one over the other won’t generate the best result,” emphasises Louise O’Loan, a yoga teacher and trained remedial masseuse who graduated in psychology and sociology, and post-graduated in human nutrition.

Meditation is one way to create a flowing channel between body and mind. However, a true state of introspection and contemplation might be hard to achieve as it needs hours and hours of practising. But don’t feel discouraged – the path is a long one, but possible to be trailed. Nevertheless, there are plenty of other techniques that don’t require as much time or dedication. “Look at it this way: any activity that brings joy to your life is a way of meditating. Coffee with a friend, reading a book, taking a walk, having a good meal, and so on. Anything that makes you happy is going to do well,” explains Ouiam.

Louise takes a similar approach when it comes to mental health. She uses these four main pillars: sleeping/resting, socialising, movement, and acceptance in order to find balance. She believes that we need plenty of sleep and rest, the latter in the form of doing a puzzle or spending time with pets. The socialising happens when taking time to see or talk to friends, share a meal, or play a game. Also, move! Heavy exercise aside, gardening and housework also count as they keep the blood flowing. And finally, make peace with yourself. You’ll be full of energy on some days, and struggle to find enthusiasm on others – either way, don’t be too hard on yourself. Ouiam adds to that, saying that even your hormones will synchronise better when your mind is at peace and your thoughts are controlled. However, when you are stressed, your body produces more cortisol (a hormone that helps the body respond to stress) and your brain stops signalising the need of other hormones, thereby resulting in irregular production.

Movement

Our bodies aren’t wired to be seated the whole day –we need to move! Muscles have to be stretched and blood needs to circulate. But not all of us find exercising so thrilling and the aphorism that we need to exercise regularly doesn’t do much to motivate. But there are a few tricks that can make you move. “Put the cutlery in the bottom drawer and use the moment to squat, hamstring stretch, or hip hinge every time you reach for it,” suggests Louise. “Alternatively, place often-used items on top shelves to simply stretch.”

But if you’re looking for something different to get you started, Ouiam proposes two Chinese practices: qigong

and tai chi. The first is an old healing system of coordinated body posture, movement, and breathing methods. Qigong claims to increase the supply and flow of energy with a variety of rejuvenating effects and is believed to expand longevity. Tai chi, meanwhile, is an ancient form of martial arts and best described as ‘meditation in motion’. The slow-motion exercises are done without pausing, while focusing on your breath. It can improve lower and upper body strength as well as boost flexibility.

Feeling Fantastic

At the end of the day, what really matters is what makes you happy. And the goal is to look ageless, an adjective used to describe a person or thing whose age cannot be defined nor appears to change. Ageless is a combination of looking and feeling young and, when you find this equilibrium, age is just a number.

REMEMBER TO:

• PRACTICE GRATITUDE

• BE KIND TO YOURSELF

• LISTEN TO YOUR BODY

• NURTURE YOUR MIND

• CREATE A SKINCARE ROUTINE

The Melody Goes On

Dana has a prominent role as a brand ambassador for the Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra (QPO) with which she joins forces once more. The concept created is a multi-sensory experience to showcase her new album Indigo, which is set to reimagine and awaken all your senses.

This is her fourth album and is inspired by theories of colour, invoking the limits of human senses through different shades, light and sound. Dana says: “Each piece was composed in a colour scheme to capture a mood and a state of being.”

The inspiration comes from the prismatic ‘Theory of Colours’ by the German poet, artist, and politician, Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, and German physiologist Ewald Hering’s theory on colour perception.

She will introduce the masterpiece to audiences (release date to be confirmed) through a collaborative journey called Crystalline that plays on the power of the naked eye and one’s consciousness, in a bid to elevate viewers towards their higher selves. Using the spectrum of light, colour and sound, a chamber orchestra of six musicians will perform Indigo whilst audiences are drawn into a serene space for a show that evokes and pushes human senses to their limits.

Breaking the rules of “selective absorption”, which suggest that we can only absorb certain wavelengths but not others, Indigo works

to connect the audience to their extra spectral minds and encourages them to captivate, expand and amalgamate with their surroundings and within themselves, on a much deeper level. Dana enters 2021 with several collaborative projects planned or in progress.

She is currently working on her second musical with Nadim; titled Rumi and set to be recorded this month in Doha by the QPO musicians. It is planned to be staged in the West End at a later date. A composition called Rising, with the United States Air Forces Central Command Band, celebrates the QatarUSA Year of Culture 2021 and is being released to praise their shared drive to promote inclusion and connectivity.

Also, in the pipelines, Dana is working on a composition for a film called Orca, a drama based on a true story, which is being produced by Katara Studios and directed by Sahar Mossayebi, with Taraneh Alidoosti as the lead actress.

In addition, Dana’s last album, Sandstorm, performed in Doha by the QPO and available to view on Qatar Airways flights, will be coming out on DVD and streaming platforms very soon.

@danaalfardan.dna

Dana Al Fardan, contemporary Qatari composer, will launch her fourth album Indigo, through a one-of-a-kind multi-sensory experience.

What better way to celebrate the month of love than with a little selflove? Enter: the beauty treatments and skincare products we’re exploring this month.

Tone Up

Some of us boast a beauty cabinet full of skincare products (whether we use them religiously or not), while others prefer a more minimalist routine. But regardless of which end of the spectrum you reside in, there’s one product that never plays the leading role and is sometimes seen as inessential: the toner. Have you ever asked yourself what this product does, and why you need one?

Well, a toner is a fast-penetrating liquid that looks like water, but isn’t just hydrogen and oxygen. It can deliver a quick shot of hydration to the skin, balance its pH, and help remove dead cells. The product itself evolved with the years, and you will find that toners these days can contain acids, glycerin, antioxidants, and anti-inflammatory properties, depending on their purpose. It should be applied right after cleansing to prepare the complexion for serum, moisturiser, eye cream, and sun protection. Any product coming after toner will penetrate better and, consequently, achieve better results.

Thinking of placing your long-forgotten toner alongside your most-used products? Making a mental note to buy one online? Before you proceed, we’ve created a brief guide and some worthwhile options to browse before buying or applying the first toner you encounter. Even better? Consult a dermatologist or aesthetician to find the perfect product to suit your skin type.

A well-rounded skincare routine is composed of a series of steps and an array of products. However, one element in this process walks in the shadows, and we want to shed some light on it. Follow us!

TACKLING OILY OR ACNE-PRONE SKIN?

OPT FOR A TONER BASED IN SALICYLIC ACID IN ORDER TO SHED DEAD CELLS AND DECREASE REDNESS AND SWELLING. ALTERNATIVELY, PICK A HAZEL-BASED TONER TO EASE IRRITATION AND INFLAMMATION – IT WILL SWEEP AWAY EXCESS OIL WITHOUT DRYING OUT THE SKIN. PIXI’S CLARITY TONIC HAS SALICYLIC ACID, PROBIOTICS, AND ALOE IN ITS FORMULA TO GENTLY EXFOLIATE AND CLEAR UP THE SKIN.

DO YOU HAVE LARGE PORES?

A TONER WITH ALPHA HYDROXY ACID, SUCH AS GLYCOLIC ACID, MIGHT BE THE RIGHT CHOICE FOR YOU. IT EFFICIENTLY REMOVES DEAD CELLS THAT ACCUMULATE IN THE PORES, MAKING THEM LOOK BIGGER. THE ORDINARY GLYCOLIC ACID 7% TONING SOLUTION OFFERS MILD EXFOLIATION TO IMPROVE SKIN RADIANCE AND TEXTURE WITH CONTINUED USE. ITS FORMULA CONTAINS TASMANIAN PEPPERBERRY THAT REDUCES THE IRRITATION ASSOCIATED WITH ACID USE.

SENSITIVE SKIN, MAYBE?

IN THIS CASE, LOOK FOR A TONER WITH SKINCALMING INGREDIENTS SUCH AS ALOE VERA, CUCUMBER, GREEN TEA, OR ROSE WATER. IT WILL PROVIDE RELIEF TO YOUR SKIN AND BETTER HYDRATION. KIEHL’S CUCUMBER HERBAL ALCOHOLFREE TONER IS MADE WITH HERBAL EXTRACTS AND MILD IN FORMULA, AND BOTH BALANCES AND TONES THE COMPLEXION.

DEALING WITH DULLNESS?

AVOID ALCOHOL-BASED TONERS, AND LOOK FOR NATURAL EXFOLIANTS LIKE PAPAYA EXTRACTS AND LACTIC ACID COMBINED WITH AMINO ACIDS TO HYDRATE AND DEEPLY NOURISH THE SKIN INSTEAD. THESE INGREDIENTS WILL HELP TO BRIGHTEN YOUR SKIN UP. THE EXFOLIATING TONER BY AUGUSTINUS BADER IS FORMULATED WITH TFC8, A COMPLEX OF NATURAL AMINO ACIDS, HIGH-GRADE VITAMINS, AND SYNTHESISED MOLECULES FOUND NATURALLY IN THE SKIN TO CREATE AN OPTIMAL ENVIRONMENT FOR REPAIR AND RENEWAL.

ACQUAINTING WITH MATURE SKIN?

SEEK OUT TONERS WITH ANTIOXIDANTS AND HYDRATING INGREDIENTS SUCH AS HYALURONIC ACID AND GLYCERIN. MATURE SKIN IS USUALLY DEHYDRATED – AND KEEPING IT MOISTURISED IS THE MISSION! L’OCCITANE’S IMMORTELLE PRECIEUSE ESSENTIAL WATER IS AN ALCOHOL-FREE TONER WITH IMMORTELLE FLOWER EXTRACT AND SKIN-PLUMPING HYALURONIC ACID ALONGSIDE ITS SALT VERSION, SODIUM HYALURONATE. THEIR DUTY? A HEALTHY AND HYDRATED COMPLEXION.

Power Flower

Are you looking for stronger strands? Remove the beautiful hibiscus flower from behind your ear and get some extra use from it! The Spa at Park Hyatt Doha sponsors OHLALA’s DIY beauty tip for February.

There is a saying that a cup of tea makes everything better, believe it or not, you can use it to obtain more than just a calming effect. Hibiscus tea is known for its deep red colour; it has a sweet and tart flavour and can be consumed hot or cold. Some studies indicate that this herbal tea can directly help lower blood pressure, keep cholesterol and triglyceride at satisfactory levels, promote digestion, support weight-loss goals, and make sure that your immune system continues to run smoothly. However, our focus here goes to the benefits of this flower when applied to your beauty routine, more specifically - to your mane! In the Ayurveda (a natural medicine system that originated in India more than 3,000 years ago) the flower is renowned for promoting hair growth. The naturally occurring amino acids in the hibiscus flowers provide your tresses with nutrients that help to strengthen them. These amino acids produce a structural protein called keratin that binds the hair and makes it less prone to breakage. It also promotes the overall thickness of your strands, allowing them to grow longer and healthier. If your hair is turning dry and dull, you can resort to hibiscus to nourish it and seal its natural moisture. The plant (flowers and leaves) contains an excessive amount of mucilage that acts as a natural conditioner. You will notice this gooey substance when crushing hibiscus flowers and leaves; making it feel slimy to touch. Now that we know that this graceful and common flower can treat or maintain overall hair health, we have prepared an easy recipe to try at home!

OHLALA’s Hibiscus Oil for Hair Replenishment

What you’ll need:

1 cup dried hibiscus flowers

1 cup melted coconut oil

How to make it:

1. Put the coconut oil into a heavy bottom saucepan and warm it over medium heat.

2. Add the dried hibiscus flowers and heat the mixture for about five to eight minutes.

3. Remove it from the stove and allow to cool completely.

4. Strain the mixture and store the infused oil in a well-sealed glass jar.

5. Massage your scalp with two spoons of the oil for about 10 minutes and leave it on for 30 minutes for best results. Afterwards, wash your hair and scalp with a mild cleanser.

p.s. You will be ready to let down your hair in no time!

For more information, please call 4009 1234 @parkhyattdoha

BrowTaking the Plunge

Ihave always been curious about microblading – having watched some amazing transformations from the safety of my phone. I was hesitant as I have always been so particular with the shape of my eyebrows. I was a tween in the nineties and had my first girl crush on the character Audrey Horne from the TV show Twin Peaks, and as a result, I tweezed with impunity. Over time, the hair on my brows essentially gave up permanently, which means that my ‘90s brows don’t quite line up with today’s in-fashion fuller trend. Like most, I am curious but scared, especially after my friend sent me a Google search of ‘microblading fails’. I would recommend that you do not search that before an appointment, only if you are in search of a good laugh.

OHLALA’s Lindsey Steenkamp steps up her brow game with Sibille Buchholzer

Juen at Heavenly Spa by Westin.

under the top layer of the skin by using a handheld microblading tool, manually performing several ‘hairlike’ strokes to achieve natural and exquisite brows.

When I heard that the esteemed Sibille Buchholzer Juen was heading up the new microblading offering launched at the Heavenly Spa by Westin, my misshapen brow arches

raised with interest and excitement.

Sibille boasts over 15 years of experience and has been tending to celebrity faces like Carolina Herrera, Daisy Lowe, Alice Dellal, Catherine Malandrino and Kylie Minogue for almost a decade.

For those unfamiliar with this treatment, microblading is a semipermanent makeup treatment placing a special brow pigment

It’s always such a calming and beautiful walk to the Heavenly Spa by Westin entrance with sounds of the flowing waterfall wall and fresh air instilling instant calm.

I sit down with Sibille, and she explains that the consultation, measuring

of the face and brows to determine my ideal shape takes the longest, whereas the actual treatment takes only 30 minutes. The first part of achieving the look I want with microblading, is to find my ‘golden ratio’ determined by measuring my face with a caliper. I can choose the shape and thickness to a certain extent, but the caliper determines the right equation to my face’s length and shape. The ‘golden ratio’ is found in nature, in the form of an ocean snail shell and from the

shape of unfurling ferns for example.

Proportions and length of the nose, the position of the eyes and chin’s width, are claimed to conform to some aspect of this ideal quota. The ‘golden ratio’ is basically what is the most pleasant in the eye of the viewer. One can safely say that microblading is as much an art as a science.

After my ‘golden ratio’ is determined, we look at colour swatches of ink. Sibille explains that the pigment they use is high-quality and will not fade to a strange tone with time. Eyebrows are the face’s business card, and it is advised not to compromise quality

over price. We select a blend of two shades to match the colour of my brows. She opens the sealed set of miniature ‘nanoneedles’ infront of me, for my peace of mind. We get started, and I would say microblading is more uncomfortable than it is painful. All you feel is a faint sensation of fine needles barely scratching your skin’s surface. Sibille stops and checks the process with me throughout, giving me the mirror and making sure I am comfortable and happy with her work.

Microblading is a process of two sessions, with the second session being a touch-up after four to six weeks. The results last between one and one and a half years, depending on your skin type and skin care regimen. The longevity depends 80 per cent on how well you look after them and of course your lifestyle. After-care is vital for the best result and is relatively simple. The immediate results are usually dark and darken with healing, but they lighten up after a day or two. I am impressed by the tiny realistic hairline strokes that are now filling my bald spaces, literally reversing the years of bad tweezing. Today has been a total game-changer for my face, and Sibille gave me some golden nuggets of beauty advice too. As I leave the spa with my new full and fabulous brows, I feel much more confident.

For reservations and more information, please call 4492 1682. @heavenlyspadoha

Microblading is for everyone, whether it be for those, who need just a few more strokes or those (like me) who need a total brow overhaul. Are you spending too much time applying your eyebrow makeup, or not confident about their volume? You should definitely consider microblading.

Colour Blocking

Locks

There’s a beauty haven to be explored on the tip of the West Bay coastline. A place I have always heard about from my girlfriends, but since I am very selective and careful (I don’t easily let anyone touch my blonde hair), I hadn’t been brave enough to visit until now. The everpopular Franck Provost salon is located in one of my favourite hotels, the Four Seasons Hotel, Doha. These days we can only be ever grateful to visit the salon twice in a season considering the current worldwide situation. With most of Europe and the UK under strict lockdown, I am excited to be able to let my locks down and embrace a new look.

Four Seasons Hotel, Doha.

do before I go to the salon and today, I decided it was not a day to play it safe. I am graciously greeted by the friendly receptionist and led through to my treatment chair. I have booked to try the manicure, pedicure and of course to have my hair done. Just around the corner is the nail colour wall. I am blown away by the wide variety of colours, hues and finishes available. I usually find that the colours are quite limited in most places, but this is definitely not the case at the Franck Provost salon. When it comes to my nails, I like playing with different colours in each finger, and I usually stick to natural shades and only choose bright red or yellow during summer. Today, I decided to pick three colours, nude, silver and denim black.

In 2020 we all needed to take matters into our own hands, resulting in the low-maintenance, ‘undone’ and rebellious hair trend. I thoroughly enjoyed seeing this hair movement’s birth, as it reminds me of my teenage years of colouring my hair by myself in every bright colour of the rainbow. Of course, Billie Eilish brought on this trend before lockdown, but then we had the time to practice it ourselves. Enter the colour blocking trend reminiscent of the late ‘90s, where the paint is arranged to create a tri-tone hairstyle. As a rule, I always map out what I want to

Before the treatment starts, I have a consultation with the senior hairstylist, Slagjana, to plan the course of action for my hair. I express my concerns over my damaged tresses and how I would like to keep them as light as possible whilst retaining their health. She explains that since it is winter, I should consider opting for some highlights in half of the head, to save my hair’s condition. I found this a very thoughtful and smart solution. She explained that she usually offers realistic, practical and affordable possibilities to her clients. For her, it is about making them happy and not about providing unnecessary treatments or products.

OHLALA’s Lindsey Steenkamp updates her look at Franck Provost salon in the Spa and Wellness Centre

BEAUTY Spotlight

As I settle back, they start mixing the colour for my hair, and the girls begin with my hands. While I relax and get buffed and pampered like royalty, I am astonished by the ocean view. It truly adds to the salon’s ambience, and I find myself pleasantly succumbing to the care and treatment I am receiving. While my hands and feet are under some work, foils are being applied to my hair simultaneously. At one point, my phone rings and I am utterly immobile with hands and feet occupied. The hairstylist takes the initiative to answer my phone and holds it to my ear so I can talk. I was very impressed with her personal touch and attentiveness. While we wait for the colour to act in my hair, the pampering is prolonged, and my hands and feet are wrapped up in towels with a decadent skin mask.

Meanwhile, I chat and laugh with Slagjana; she is originally from Macedonia and has been working for the salon for seven years. She seems to be the salon’s mother hen – taking control and looking after everybody (all done effortlessly). It is easy to notice that she is highly intuitive and passionate about what she does. It’s time for rinsing and much-needed hair treatment. The five-star experience continues with hand, foot and head massages simultaneously; I am in heaven!

“My hair emerges with a multitude of beautiful baby blonde and platinum tones. Soft and silky smooth.”

The moment of truth arrives with the blow-dry. My hair emerges with a multitude of beautiful baby blonde and platinum tones. Soft and silky smooth. I am incredibly pleased with the natural look and condition of my hair.

During my initial consultation, I asked for some pink accents to mimic the season’s colour blocking trend. Slagjana advised me that hair extension would be a much better solution instead of dying my hair, which would vanish within a few washes. The pieces are added and with a final snip, blow and brush my hair is ready.

I am elated with the result and walk away with head-turning hair and nails that shine like justice, ready to slay the start of 2021.

If you are interested in a five-star, nail and hair transformation with dedicated client service, Franck Provost salon is a definite one for the books!

For reservations or more information, please call 4494 8844.

@franckprovostqa

Relaxation Alchemy

OHLALA’s Lindsey Steenkamp gets pampered by The Spa at Al Jasra Boutique Hotel located in Souq Waqif, Doha.

It has been quite the year when it comes to closing chapters, moving on and opening my heart to a more hopeful and graceful new period - what an incredible relief and reason to jubilate. With this spirit, I decided to treat myself and indulge in the blissful serenity and relaxation of The Spa at Al Jasra Boutique Hotel, right here in Doha. Lucky for me, it turned out to be just the ideal way to kick off the new year.

The chilly winter bright light in the afternoon is perfect for a stroll at the Souq Waqif. Enchanting pathways adorned with sunlight dancing off the brightly coloured lamps and fresh air to soothe the soul beckons my steps towards The Spa at Al Jasra Boutique Hotel for a (much needed) celebratory facial and unwinding massage.

I am graciously greeted at the reception and offered a fragrant hot towel and tea. After soaking up the beautiful modern décor with a classy Arabic influence, I am led to the changing room to prepare for the treatments.

My first session comprises of the Relaxing Massage - a perfect option after all the December festivities. The treatment room is dark, moody and the ambience

is opulent, yet peaceful. I lay down and soak in the melodic, zen music, enveloped with water sounds, perfect for disconnecting from the world outside. The therapist inquires which areas I would like her to focus on, and I direct her to my upper back and neck. I spend many late nights working on my laptop, which causes most of my body tension. All the massages are available in 60- or 90-minute packages. The therapist is attentive and delivers the full-body Swedish massage with skilful technique. The product used is from a natural fruit extract and smells incredible; my skin feels immaculate. In and out of the blissful calm, my muscles are relieved

tranquillity mode, I shift straight into pamper status. The therapist starts with an exfoliation lotion and deep brightening cleanse and takes her time whilst practising gentle and patient movements. My skin is naturally sensitive and needs a little extra care. Soon enough, my complexion is eventually ready for the good stuff! A spritz of rose water preps me for the VIP Oxygen Mask. The product used is from the Biologique Recherche range from Paris.

I am told that Soin VIPO2 Oxygénant is a lavish oxygenating and balancing mask. A combination of anti-fatigue and anti-pollutant that detoxifies the skin and restores its natural brightness. The of all the tension once she finishes.

The sheets used on the massage bed to cover you are silk and add to the luxurious atmosphere and classy attention to detail. This treatment leaves me relaxed, and my mind in a distant universe.

The journey continues with a facial called The Balancing Facial. Excitingly this is a brand-new treatment that is not available on the menu yet, but will be launching soon! Therefore, the facial is adaptable to different skin types, making it a good selection for an all-around dermatological treat. Still, in major

last step in the facial is the Serum - the final secret touch. The Sérum Collagène Natif is an intensive treatment to reconstruct and improve the skin’s tone, volume and plumpness. My pores are tightened, my features appear relaxed, my skin hydrated, silky soft and glowing. With my whole body tingling and my mind in a much calmer and happier place, my time here has unfortunately drawn to an end. I tell myself that I am sure I’m not the only one that cries inside when the clock strikes 12 on a spa day. The therapist invites me for an invigorating ginger tea with dates in the relax room after we wrap up. I am left in a peaceful

state with my face feeling incredible as I float back to the real world.

If you are in desperate need of some self-care and high-end indulgence, walk down to The Spa at Al Jasra Boutique Hotel for quality treatments, attention to details and an overall relaxing experience.

For reservations and more information, please call 4433 6878. @tivolisouqwaqif

Pay in 3-12 months with 0% interest. T&Cs apply.

OHLALA Awards

IT’S THAT VERY SPECIAL TIME WHEN WE GET TO ANNOUNCE THE WINNERS OF THE OHLALA SPA & WELLNESS AWARDS IN WHICH WE REVEAL THE BEST OF THE BEST ACROSS THE INDUSTRY. ALL WINNERS ARE AWARDED BASED ON BOTH PUBLIC VOTES AND CRITICS’ OPINIONS. THERE ARE TWO AWARDS IN EACH CATEGORY. THE ‘FAVOURITES’ HAVE BEEN DECIDED BY AN ONLINE VOTE AND THE ‘BESTS’ WERE PICKED BY OUR EDITORIAL PANEL.

WINNER

WINNER

BEST SIGNATURE TREATMENT IN QATAR 2020 SINGING SAND DUNES, THE SPA – MANDARIN ORIENTAL, DOHA

WINNER

FAVOURITE SIGNATURE TREATMENT IN QATAR 2020

HEAVENLY SIGNATURE MASSAGE, HEAVENLY SPA

BY WESTIN, THE WESTIN DOHA HOTEL & SPA •••

WINNER

BEST FACIAL TREATMENT IN QATAR 2020

VALMONT SIGNATURE FACIAL, THE SPA BY PARK HYATT DOHA

WINNER

FAVOURITE FACIAL TREATMENT IN QATAR 2020

ORCHIDÉE IMPÉRIALE PRESTIGE TREATMENT, GUERLAIN SPA, ALFARDAN

•••

WINNER

BEST COUPLE’S TREATMENT IN QATAR 2020

SARAY SPA, MARRIOTT MARQUIS CITY CENTER DOHA HOTEL

WINNER

FAVOURITE COUPLE’S TREATMENT IN QATAR 2020

SPA INTERCONTINENTAL, INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA

WINNER

BEST SPA PRODUCTS IN QATAR 2020

AROMATHERAPY ASSOCIATES LONDON, THE SPA – MANDARIN ORIENTAL, DOHA

WINNER

FAVOURITE SPA PRODUCTS IN QATAR 2020

SPA BY CLARINS, MARSA MALAZ KEMPINSKI, THE PEARL, DOHA

•••

WINNER

BEST HAMMAM EXPERIENCE IN QATAR 2020

ESPA SPA – MONDRIAN DOHA

WINNER

FAVOURITE HAMMAM EXPERIENCE IN QATAR 2020 THE SPA, SOUQ WAQIF BOUTIQUE HOTELS

•••

WINNER

BEST BODY RESHAPING, WEIGHT LOSS PROGRAMME IN QATAR 2020

NUTRIHEAL WELLNESS CENTER

WINNER

FAVOURITE BODY RESHAPING, WEIGHT LOSS PROGRAMME IN QATAR 2020 M ACTIVE

BEST HEALTH CLUB IN QATAR 2020 THE VENUE QATAR

WINNER

FAVOURITE HEALTH CLUB IN QATAR 2020 SHERATON FITNESS – SHERATON GRAND DOHA RESORT & CONVENTION HOTEL •••

WINNER

BEST BEACH CLUB IN QATAR 2020 POOL AND BEACH CLUB, THE DIPLOMATIC CLUB

WINNER

FAVOURITE BEACH CLUB IN QATAR 2020

THE BAY CLUB, INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA •••

WINNER

BEST INDOOR POOL IN QATAR 2020 ALEPH DOHA RESIDENCES, CURIO COLLECTION BY HILTON

WINNER

FAVOURITE INDOOR POOL IN QATAR 2020 THE RITZ-CARLTON, DOHA •••

WINNER

BEST OUTDOOR POOL IN QATAR 2020 THE ST. REGIS DOHA

WINNER

FAVOURITE OUTDOOR POOL IN QATAR 2020

AL AZIZIYAH BOUTIQUE HOTEL

OHLALA Awards

WINNER

BEST SPA DESIGN IN QATAR 2020

THE SPA, SHARQ VILLAGE & SPA, A RITZ-CARLTON HOTEL

WINNER

FAVOURITE SPA DESIGN IN QATAR 2020

THE RITZ-CARLTON SPA, THE RITZ-CARLTON, DOHA

•••

WINNER

BEST WELLNESS SPA IN QATAR 2020

QUAN SPA, JW MARRIOTT MARQUIS CITY CENTER DOHA

WINNER

FAVOURITE WELLNESS SPA IN QATAR 2020

AL MESSILA, A LUXURY COLLECTION RESORT & SPA, DOHA

•••

WINNER

BEST MALE SPA IN QATAR 2020

THE SPA BY PARK HYATT, DOHA

WINNER

FAVOURITE MALE SPA IN QATAR 2020

THE SPA, THE FOUR SEASONS HOTEL DOHA

•••

WINNER

BEST BUSINESS HOTEL SPA IN QATAR 2020

EFOREA SPA – HILTON DOHA

WINNER

FAVOURITE BUSINESS HOTEL SPA IN QATAR 2020

THE CROWNE SPA, CROWNE PLAZA DOHA - THE BUSINESS PARK

•••

WINNER

BEST BOUTIQUE SPA IN QATAR 2020

DIVA LOUNGE SPA

WINNER

FAVOURITE BOUTIQUE SPA IN QATAR 2020

THE SPA, SOUQ AL WAKRA HOTEL

WINNER

BEST HOTEL SPA IN QATAR 2020

QUAN SPA, JW MARRIOTT MARQUIS CITY CENTER DOHA

WINNER

FAVOURITE HOTEL SPA IN QATAR 2020

THE SPA, MANDARIN ORIENTAL DOHA

•••

WINNER

BEST RESORT SPA IN QATAR 2020

THE SPA, SHARQ VILLAGE & SPA, A RITZ-CARLTON HOTEL

WINNER

FAVOURITE RESORT SPA IN QATAR 2020

ANANTARA SPA, BANANA ISLAND RESORT DOHA

•••

WINNER

BEST NON-INVASIVE COSMETIC TREATMENT IN QATAR 2020 ROOTS HAIR AND BEAUTY

WINNER

FAVOURITE NON-INVASIVE COSMETIC TREATMENT IN QATAR 2020

JAULA SPA, GRAND HYATT DOHA •••

WINNER

BEST EYELASHES AND EYEBROW SERVICES IN QATAR 2020 BY SULTANA – HILTON DOHA

WINNER

FAVOURITE EYELASHES AND EYEBROW SERVICES IN QATAR 2020

CHIC & POSH BEAUTY LOUNGE

•••

WINNER

BEST NAIL SALON IN QATAR 2020 NAILS QATAR

WINNER

FAVOURITE NAIL SALON IN QATAR 2020

N.BAR QATAR

WINNER

BEST NAIL SALON IN QATAR 2020

FRANCK PROVOST QATAR

WINNER

FAVOURITE NAIL SALON IN QATAR 2020

ROOTS HAIR AND BEAUTY •••

WINNER

BEST BEAUTY SALON IN QATAR

ALDO COPPOLA – ALHAZM

WINNER

FAVOURITE BEAUTY SALON IN QATAR 2020

FRANCK PROVOST QATAR •••

WINNER

BEST HAIR AND BEAUTY GROOMING IN QATAR 2020

FOUR ONE ONE SALON

WINNER

FAVOURITE HAIR AND BEAUTY GROOMING IN QATAR 2020

JEAN LOUIS DAVID •••

WINNER

BEST INDEPENDENT SPA AND BEAUTY LOUNGE IN QATAR 2020

PN FOR CARE SALON & SPA

WINNER

FAVOURITE INDEPENDENT SPA AND BEAUTY LOUNGE IN QATAR 2020

DIVA LOUNGE SPA

Winning means you’re willing to go longer, work harder, and give more than anyone else.

Vince Lombardi

“

THE GREAT(EST) ESCAPE

They

February is the month of love, and there wouldn’t be a better time to visit (for the first or umpteenth time) one of the most romantic spots on the planet: the Republic of Maldives. Time and time again, the archipelago is chosen by honeymooners and couples looking for a special place to spend some relaxing time together. There’s also always a new hotel or island to be visited – trust us! Situated in the Arabian Sea of the Indian Ocean, it is an easy hop-on hop-off destination for residents of the Middle East. The exclusivity and luxe extras offered by most properties in this white-sand paradise is just the proverbial cherry on top. Case in point? The properties below.

COCO COLLECTION

(Coco Bodu Hithi and Coco Palm Dhuni Kolhu)

Bodu Hithi Island is in the North Malé Atoll and 40 minutes away from Male International Airport. The décor here offers plenty of Maldivian charm – think: thatched roofs and outdoor showers mixed with modern fixtures and fittings for ultimate comfort. The accommodation consists of Private Villas equipped with a private pool and outdoor deck, Island Villas nestled in lush tropical greenery, Water Villas and Escape Water Villas standing over the sea, and Coco Residences with space to spare. Palm Dhuni Kolhu is located in the southern waters of Baa Atoll, a 30-minute seaplane journey from Male International Airport. The resort offers a rustic and organic style with an elegant ambience. There are five different types of villas to choose from. On land, the Beach, Sunset Beach, and Deluxe Villas are built within tropical planting and beneath arching coconut palms. Meanwhile, The Lagoon and Sunset Lagoon Villas await over turquoise waters.

Cherry on Top: A three-night package is up to 40 per cent off from regular rates for Middle East travellers. This special rate is valid until September 2021 with options for half- and full-board. Additionally, honeymooners visiting from the Middle East will be gifted a romantic three-course candlelit dinner and receive a special Coco gift throughout this period.

say paradise isn’t a specific place, but a state of bliss within you. Then again, if we can pinpoint its geographic location, it most certainly is called the Maldives.

COCO PALM DHUNI KOLHU

VELAA PRIVATE ISLAND

Located in the Noonu Atoll, this hotel takes exclusivity to the next level. Designed by award-winning architect Petr Kolar, the resort expresses an elegant fusion between Maldivian culture and contemporary luxury. Incidentally, velaa means ‘turtle’ in local language Dhivehi, thereby paying homage to the sea turtles that flock there to nest and hatch. From the seaplane, guests can see that the overwater villas are constructed to resemble a turtle’s head, while the island forms the body. The hotel comprises 47 private villas, houses, and exclusive residences. As for those seeking total privacy? The Romantic Pool Residence can only be reached by boat and is just the ticket.

Cherry on Top: The hotel has unveiled a new hammam facility at the Nirolhu Private Residence, one of the hotel’s four-bedroom residences. Guests can enjoy the private steam room and cool pool at their convenience, while a spa therapist is available for those who wish to experience the hammam. The villa can accommodate up to 10 individuals and is perfect for families that want to self-isolate in a lavish beachfront setting.

@velaaprivateisland

HUVAFEN FUSHI MALDIVES

Also known as Dream Island, this tiny jewel of an island can be reached in 30 minutes by speedboat from Male International Airport. The resort is composed of 44 private bungalows and pavilions (each of them with a private pool) spread along palm-fringed beaches or perched over the crystal-clear lagoon. The hotel is a member of the Small Luxury Hotels of the World community and is available for exclusive private rental – yes, you read that right. You can rent out the entire island!

Cherry on Top: Here awaits Huvafen Spa, an underwater spa with panoramic reef views – the first of its kind in the world. At the SpaQuarium, you can explore marine life at night and discover the fascinating bioluminescent corals. However, bragging rights aren’t limited to massages performed below sea level; you can also book an underwater dining experience. The view will undoubtedly be a memorable one.

@huvafenfushi_maldives

VELAA PRIVATE ISLAND SEAPLANE

VELAA PRIVATE ISLAND, HAMMAM

VELAA PRIVATE ISLAND PRIVATE RESIDENCE

HUVAFEN FUSHI MALDIVES BATHROOM VIEW

REGIONAL Escapes

CONRAD MALDIVES RANGALI ISLAND

A short seaplane ride takes you from Male International Airport to the resort, nestled in a unique atoll surrounded by azure blue water and powdery white sands. The holiday spot features 151 purposefully designed villas and suites as well as a choice of 12 restaurants and bars. And as Conrad Maldives is a family-friendly destination, the little ones can try their hand at all manner of activities, programmes, and workshops at Majaa Explorer Hub. The property is also known for its innovative firsts – it was a pioneer in the region when it comes to offering overwater villas built on stilts above the lagoon.

Cherry on Top: The resort is home to the world’s first undersea restaurant, Ithaa. It sits below the surface of the Indian Ocean, with 180-degree panoramic views of the coral gardens surrounding it. You also find the world’s first underwater residence, the Muraka, at the resort. A two-level structure, its master bedroom is submerged almost five metres below sea level.

@conrad_maldives

ITHAA UNDERSEA RESTAURANT AT CONRAD MALDIVES RANGALI ISLAND CREDIT JUSTIN NICHOLAS

THE MURAKA UNDERSEA BEDROOM CREDIT JUSTIN NICHOLAS

CONRAD MALDIVES RANGALI FINOLHU ISLAND CREDIT JUSTIN NICHOLAS

A Culinary Oasis

As soon as we step across the threshold, it’s as though the whole world goes quiet. The roar of our fast-paced lives in the city fades; the air is cleaner, the light clearer.

Birdsong rises in the unfamiliar peace. This ambience is the magic of Al Messila Resort & Spa - literally the place ‘where water flows’. The stunning resort is set in 33 acres of forested groundsa modern refuge nestled in the city.

Our visit has a purpose, experience the latest offering of this urban Eden, and a new concept on the Doha brunch scene – Yum Cha Saturday at the Deli Kitchen. Yum Cha is a traditional Cantonese custom, now a staple of modern life in another buzzing and gleaming international metropolis – Hong Kong. The name means ‘drink tea’ in Cantonese. It’s an invitation across generations and continents to take a moment to sit, talk, and eat mountains of steaming dim sum while washing it down with gallons of tea. Here, with the blessing of warm Doha days, the traditional hot black or green brew are allowed to be transformed into tall glasses of iced tea, laced with peach, lemon or milk. And under Michelin-starred executive chef Pino Lavarra and Asian speciality chef Som Thappa, Deli Kitchen’s spin on Yum Cha successfully splices Cantonese flavours with Sichuan spice and Singapore swing.

Our corner table takes in the full sweep of Deli Kitchen’s high, sleek and modern airy hall. From our left, light floods in from windows looking out over seemingly infinite gardens; to our right, the open kitchen stretching the length of the room. Tall-hatted

In search of the perfect lazy weekend dining experience, Amica Sicilia finds a feast for all senses at Al Messila Resort & Spa’s extravagant Yum Cha Saturday brunch.

chefs juggle searingly hot woks, which sizzle and flame as they toss ribbons of noodles into the air and summon the elusive wok hei, ‘breath of the wok’, heat and flavour working in perfect harmony.

At Yum Cha Saturday brunch, an empty table is an impossibility. As soon as we are settle, a traditional dim sum pushcart heaves into view, piled high with tottering towers of bamboo baskets. We cleanse and prepare our palettes with a zesty Yum Moon Sen, a tangle of almost transparent bean thread noodles and shredded vegetables, brought to life with lemongrass, ginger and Thai basil. Then comes a rare delicacy – Chongqing veal salad. The meat is simmered for nine hours until tender, falling from the bone, before being seasoned and sliced, waferthin, so it melts in the mouth.

Just as we are making an impression on the first round, it’s dim sum time! The pushcart returns, bamboo lids are lifted revealing tier upon tier of treasures. Under one, steamed Siu Mai, a dim sum staple filled with three different options: chicken, shrimp, or mushroom. Their softness contrasts with the crispy, and fragrant spring rolls, straight from the hot pan to our plates. Another basket holds beautifully wrapped pandan leaf parcels of fish and rice; we unfurl them one by one and lick them clean. However, lifting the final lid takes our breath away: a cluster of bright jewels, with fiery orange and deep red dumplings filled with prawns and crowned with gem-like micro-pearls of caviar, that burst their umami flavour.

Our table is getting incredibly crowded, but the pushcart returns. That was just the warmup. Enter: Sichuan Mala chicken, roasted whole with chillies and aromatics, sugar and soy, before

CHIC Eats

hot oil is poured over it for a crispy, glossy bronze exterior hiding juicy meat within. Beside it, sweet and sour beef with tongue-tingling Sichuan peppercorns, Chinese black vinegar and ginger, and Char Siu spare ribs – the iconic Cantonese barbecue balancing melting fat and tender meat, its outsides dark and deliciously caramelised.

But the highlight of the meal comes on a trolley of its own—a whole steamed sea bass, perfumed with ginger and spring onion and tempered with garlic. Skilfully filleted at our table, the fish is flaky, fragrant, and mouth-watering. Our forks find every last morsel.

As the shadows lengthen towards the golden hour, it’s time for dessert. The final trolley of the day wheels up bearing a trio of scented delights. I dive into a pool of sunshine in the form of a silky-smooth mango pudding, bursting with fruit. Its complement is a crumbly pastry and vanilla custard baked into a sweet little tart. And, to finish, a delicate homemade coconut ice-cream finds the sweet spot. Entirely satisfied, grinning in well-fed oblivion, we step out into the gardens to walk off our feast. As cool breezes drift through the trees, we saunter lazily beneath the shade of the acacia to the whispering of a hundred fountains.

For reservations or more information, please call 4445 0000 or Whatsapp 5505 9901.

Savouring Away

arrival named after the most southerly city in the continent. Oscar delivered a variety of appetisers. My favourite was the Mexican taco de camaron or tempura prawn taco with avocado, guajillo mayo and coriander. I didn’t feel short-changed when biting in, it was perfectly portioned, and the ingredients were well-balanced.

Also in the list of ‘Entradas’ were the empanadas, a classic across the region. These arrived piping hot, and as I took a bite, I could immediately tell they were good stuff. After checking the menu, I saw that it had Argentinian Angus beef, boiled potatoes and eggs. The pastry was just right, and the result was perfect.

The steak is still the main event. Grass-fed Argentina Angus is the meat source unless you want short ribs, they come from the United States. There is a choice of rib-eye, rump or tenderloin, and the tomahawk steak, which we had and was simply superb. I am confident that it will be a long time before I have a feast as good as this one again. Cooked to order, we asked for it to be served rare and it came as requested. To me, rare is the only way to eat steak, and most chefs agree. It was seasoned beautifully, and although the salt and pepper were dispatched to the table, there was no reason to use them at all. That should tell you that this kitchen knows how to cook! The panqueque de dulce de leche was delivered to us for dessert, and it was a crepe dough stuffed with this version of the Latin American caramel and banana ice cream. Another hearty way to finish the meal is with the cheesecake and red sauce.

Located at the JW Marriott Marquis City Center Doha, the outlet brings South American cuisine to the heart of Doha. Fuego follows the highest standards, excellent cooking, efficient service, with a rich, intimate vibe.

The restaurant name means fire in Spanish and represents well the style of food you will find there. The Brazilian head chef, Oscar Engmann embraces a pan-Latin American menu. The idea is smart and plays to broader tastes. It also put into practice the chef’s strengths as I witnessed from testing the new additions to the menu. Even the beverages adhere to the concept as evident from the Ushuaia mocktail we had on

The layout of the restaurant is not pretentious, which scores high points for me. However, it was deeply intimate with low lighting and candles around the edges and very classy with high backed leather armchairs. To me, this was not a place to pose, but a venue to relax, enjoy the fine things in life and experience excellent cuisine. It has the right substance and happens to be stylish and elegant too.

For reservations or more information, please call 4429 5295.

OHLALA’s Craig Ferriman takes a flavourful trip to South America while dining at Fuego, located at JW Marriott Marquis City Center Doha.

CHIC Eats

Al Messila Resort & Spa

Veritas

Indulge in a unique menu crafted for this special occasion by Michelinstarred chef Pino Lavarra at Italian restaurant Veritas. Priced at QR650 per couple with a set menu, including a glass of bubbles on February 14. Call 4445 0000 or WhatsApp 5505 9901 for reservations and more information.

Alwadi Hotel Doha – Mgallery

O’Glacée

Enjoy a romantic atmosphere and special set up at O’Glacée with an interactive buffet dinner on February 14. Priced at QR229 per person package with soft beverages and QR399 per person package with sparkling drinks.

Call 4009 9666 or WhatsApp 3075 8211 for reservations and more information.

Crowne Plaza Doha - The Business Park

Rodizio

Treat your loved one to a special dinner set in Rodizio’s romantic ambiance. Delight in signature cuts churrasco-style carved and served right at your table and a special menu for the day. Priced at QR295 per person, with unlimited cuts and an additional QR189 for unlimited house beverages.

Call 4408 7777 for reservations and more information.

Four Seasons Hotel Doha

Elements

SINGLE, TAKEN, HUNGRY!

Connect with your friends, colleagues and beloved at Elements for a special Valentine’s Day dinner, with a special set menu, created by the restaurant’s talented chefs. Priced at QR260 per person inclusive of a five-course set menu with a glass of sparkling or mocktail from 7pm to 10pm.

Call 4494 8600 for reservations and more information.

Hyatt Regency Oryx Doha

The Cellar

Say Te Amo to your amore this Valentine’s Day as you indulge in a three-course set menu dinner. Priced at QR360 per couple or QR600 per couple with a sparking pairing.

Call 4141 1234 for reservations and more information.

InterContinental Doha

Belgian Café

Cheers to love and happiness this February 14 at Belgian Café with a special sharing seafood platter and a bottle of bubbly. Priced at QR495 per couple.

Call 4484 4919 or email fb.icdoha@ihg.com for reservations.

InterContinental Doha The City

Prime

Treat your loved one and toast to the joy of love and culinary delights at Prime. Add a little more romance to this special day as you savour a three-course set menu for two with a bottle of sparkling, curated by their Michelin starred chefs. Priced at QR450 per couple.

Call 4015 8888 or email icdohatc.reservations@ihg.com for reservations and more information.

George Bernard Shaw once said, “There is no love sincerer than the love of food.” Find the best mix of fabulous meals and romance in town this month.

JW Marriott Marquis City Center Doha

Fuego

Fuego brings you Latin American flavours, candlelight, and a romantic ambience this February 14. Cherish the moment with your loved ones whilst enjoying a meticulously and expertly crafted menu by chef Oscar Engmann. Priced at QR350 for two people including soft beverages and QR450 for two people including two glasses of selected beverages, from 5pm to 10.30pm.

Call 4429 5000 for reservations and more information.

Mandarin Oriental, Doha

Mandarin Lounge and Baraha Lounge

These lounges are transpiring grace and sophistication. Start with the savoury treats, lovingly made with the very best artisan ingredients and then choose from the selection of warm scones, which include blends of Medjool date and cinnamon raisin served with clotted cream, hazelnut curd and mixed berries jam. End on a sweet note with the creamiest sweets flavoured with seasonal tastes and local specialities.

Call 4008 8888 or email modoh-reservations@mohg.com for reservations and more information.

Marriott Marquis City Center Doha

Cucina

Fancy Italian this February 14? To celebrate love, chef Claudio Trovato has crafted an indulgent sharing-style meat and seafood set-menu exclusively for you and your amore. Why not recreate the romance of Italy in your favourite eatery Cucina? Priced at QR380 per couple, from 6pm to 11pm.

Call 6643 6890 for reservations and more information.

Mondrian Doha

CUT

Spoil your loved one with a romantic dinner at CUT Doha for an experience that will take you to the moon and back. Indulge in good food, a romantic table setting and a Best Dressed Competition for a chance to win a one-night stay (inclusive of breakfast for two people). Priced at QR395 per person for a four-course menu.

Call 4045 5999 for reservations and more information.

Park Hyatt Doha

Sora

How could Park Hyatt Doha’s modern Japanese Restaurant & Lounge with panoramic views get any more romantic? By booking Sora’s Valentine’s Day Dinner for Two package, where you’ve thought of everything (hint, hint). Priced at QR780 per couple and available from February 11 to 14.

Call 4009 1234 for reservations and more information.

Radisson Blu Hotel Doha

Ruby Wu’s

Indulge in a special set menu for two as you embark on a romantic culinary journey on February 14 from 6pm to 11pm. Priced at QR188 per person or QR238 per person, depending on the chosen menu.

Call 4428 1555 for reservations and more information.

Sharq Village & Spa, a Ritz-Carlton Hotel Gazebo by the Beach

Bespoke Dining on the Beach with panoramic views of the skyline and complete privacy with a private butler to tend to your needs. Treat your loved one to the most exquisite experience with a chef-crafted dinner by the beach. Priced at QR2,000 per couple, and available from February 12 to 14, from 6.30pm to 10.30pm.

Call 4425 6666 for reservations and more information.

The Ritz-Carlton B-lounge

B-ready to expect the unexpected on “V” Day, enjoy your dinner in a unique setting; boasting beautiful marina views, chic interiors and a large outdoor terrace. Priced at QR475 for the couples’ menu, from 6pm to midnight. Call or WhatsApp 5080 4421 or email reservations@bloungedoha.com for reservations and more information.

The Westin Doha Hotel & Spa

Sabai Thai

Get ready for a February Special celebration. Enjoy authentic Thai dishes and explore the scrumptious set menu from Sabai Thai with a bottle of bubbly for QR450 per couple. Valid from February 11 to 20.

Call 3359 8514 for reservations and more information.

AN ENCOUNTER WITH THE 2021 PORSCHE CAYENNE COUPÉ GTS

PORSCHE HAS PRODUCED YET ANOTHER OUTSTANDING OFFERING.

We’re always up for a test drive here at OHLALA, but every now and then, we’re gifted with the opportunity to get behind the wheel of an exceptional brand. This month, compliments of the great team at Porsche Centre Doha, we were handed the keys to the new Cayenne Coupé GTS. Having already experienced Porsche offerings in the past – the Panamera, the Macan, and the 718 Boxster included – we knew we were in for a real treat. When taking in the front of the new Cayenne Coupé GTS, you can see it is characterised by its standard Sport Design front apron with black air-intake grilles. The standard dark-tinted LED headlights with Porsche Dynamic Light System are also in black and blend effortlessly into the car’s front end. At the flanks, Sport Design side skirts in high-gloss black are painted to match the rest of the exterior,

as are the side window trims. The GTS logo – also in black – is present on the front door sills, whilst the 21-inch RS Spyder Design wheels in satin-gloss black add to the car’s powerful appearance, complemented by the red callipers of the standard braking system.

The sharply slanting roofline with flow-through rear spoiler highlights the refined nature of the exterior design. This model features an adaptively extending roof spoiler, complete with spoiler lip that adds to its sporty nature. At the rear, the Porsche dark-tinted light bar runs across the width of the car and the model logo on the boot lid is finished in matt black. A unique Sport Design rear apron and diffuser add to this Cayenne’s muscular appearance, as do the black tailpipes of the new sport exhaust system. To finish off this impressive exterior, the roof of this Coupé is made from carbon fibre.

Turning our attention to the interior, it was obvious that the same care put into the exterior design continued inside the cabin. The

model’s black logo is featured on the stainless-steel door entry sills whilst the standard black-brushed aluminium package provides a black leather and Alcantara-trimmed interior that gives the GTS an exclusive feel. The eight-way adjustable front seats are comfortable, deliver the perfect driving position, and offer optimal lateral support during cornering thanks to the additionally raised height of the side bolsters.

The multifunction sports steering wheel is rather large, but comfortable in hand, and comes complete with shift paddles. The analogue rev counter is also in black and features the GTS logo. Also sporting this logo are the headrests on the outer rear seats, where there’s plenty of leg, head, and shoulder room on offer for all those travelling in the back. The boot, meanwhile, provides 22 cubic feet of cargo volume that can be increased to 54.3 cubic feet with the rear seats folded flat.

The Coupé GTS houses an intuitive display and operating concept called the Porsche Advanced Cockpit. The instrument cluster features the central counter flanked by two seven-inch HD displays. All key functions can be controlled by the driver via three core components, namely the 12.3-inch HD touchscreen of the Porsche Communication Management system, the touch-sensitive Direct Touch Control function in the centre console to interact with selected functions, and the multifunction steering wheel to control the onboard computer. There are plenty of Type-C USB sockets located in the front that are illuminated to ensure you can easily find them at night. Wireless use of Apple CarPlay is also available.

Performance-wise, we were thoroughly impressed with the 2021 Coupé GTS. This beast of a motor vehicle boasts a 4.0 litre, biturbo V8 engine that produces 453hp and 620Nm of torque. This, coupled with a Tiptronic eight-speed automatic transmission, translates to a machine capable of surging from 0-100km/h in just 4.5 seconds and 0-200km/ h in 17.6 seconds. Thanks to the Coupé coming standard with the Sport Chrono Package, it has an impressive top speed of 270km/h. We spent the day effortlessly tearing up the tarmac and were struck by the excellent handling, cornering, braking, and sheer responsiveness of this superior vehicle. And, yes, it wasn’t easy when we had to hand back the keys.

For more information or to book a test drive of your own, please call Porsche Centre Doha on 4459 9666.

DIVA Drives

“This model features an adaptively extending roof spoiler, complete with spoiler lip that adds to its sporty nature.”

BEST FACE FORWARD

IT SEEMS THAT WE ARE ALL SEEKING THE MYTHICAL FOUNTAIN OF YOUTH, BUT THE SECRET TO A PRETTY FACE MIGHT JUST BE INSIDE YOU.

In an era of selfies, social media filters, and countless beauty tutorials, feeling inferior is an easy hole to fall into – and a magic potion for a young and flawless face seems to be the only way out. But there is no quick fix to looking fabulous. The secret to a perfect complexion is a combination of things, and feeling good about yourself is a sizeable slice of that pie. Studies show that some people feel younger or older than they really are, and this ‘subjective age’ has a significant effect on their physical and mental health. Scientists are finding that it is linked to the fact that some people appear to flourish as they age, while others fade. And how you feel about yourself might have a deeper effect than you realise.

Yannick Stephan at the University of Montpellier

examined middle-aged and elderly participants, and while most of them felt about eight years younger than their chronological age, some felt older. It showed that feeling between eight and 13 years older than your actual age resulted in an 18 to 25-per-cent greater risk of death over the study periods. Feeling younger than your years also seems to bring with it a lower risk of depression and better mental well-being.

We can’t deny that having the perfect appearance helps boost confidence and, consequently, makes you feel good. However, don’t forget that an ugly personality destroys a pretty face. So, maintain a positive outlook on life and pamper yourself with beauty treatments from time to time – and the rest will follow.

INTRODUCING THE NEW JAGUAR F-PACE

New 2021 Jaguar F-PACE, refined inside and out. On the outside, the newly sculpted bumpers and bonnet, wider rear haunches and distinctive front and rear LED lights create a distinguished presence. On the inside, everything you touch has been exquisitely enhanced, from the new Pivi infotainment with 11.4” touchscreen to new colourways and improved seat comfort. The New F-PACE is our performance SUV, evolved.

Contact us to book a test drive.

Alfardan Premier Motors Co. (L.L.C.)

Burj Alfardan Showroom in Lusail City or Alfardan Plaza Showroom in Al Sadd St.

Tel: +974 4447 7566

jaguar-qatar.com