SLT2Doha(September08)

sur la terre foreword

» foreword

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>>> Sur la Terre is constantly evolving and searching for new ideas to provide you, our readers, with the height of luxury from both the local and regional markets, as well as internationally, and with each issue of Sur la Terre our love of everything luxurious is only growing!

Another summer is over, and with it the need to get outside into the fresh air is stronger than ever. From exhibitions of renowned painters to international book fairs, upscale shopping and super car shows, our ‘Out and About’ section highlights the best.

If you haven’t had your quota of culture over the summer, the long awaited and highly anticipated opening of the Museum of Islamic Art is just around the corner, while ‘Cultural Agenda’ keeps you fresh on happenings around the region.

Elie Saab brings couture to life in ‘Going Global’ as a Middle Eastern figure who has made his mark on international fashion, while two of the newest luxury cars, the second generation Porsche 911 and the Ferrari California, also boast some serious curves.

September is the Holy Month of Ramadan, and our favourite eateries and Ramadan tents are again offering sumptuous Iftar and Souhour banquets to look forward to. A time of fasting, giving thanks and quiet contemplation, Ramadan is also a time to help others. Reach Out to Asia, a local charity operated under the umbrella of Qatar Foundation and chaired by Her Highness Sheikha Mozah bint Nasser Al Misned, is doing just that with their Sidra Tree Ramadan campaign, not to mention their other significant projects to assist those in need around the region.

So spare a thought for those less fortunate, give thanks, and enjoy the new issue!

Sur La Terre – Doha

General Manager: Jocquine Chami

Regional Managing Editor: Elly Cardwell

PR, Sales & Marketing Manager: Julia Toon

Art Direction & Design: Roula Ayoub, Rena Chehayber, Lara Nakhlé Proofreader: Lynne Haddow

Editorial Contributors: Yamina Benaï, Fadi El Benni, Anne & Judikael Hirel Published by: Firefly Communications

P.O. Box 11596, Doha-Qatar. Tel: +974 4340360 Fax: +974 4340359

Cover image / Photography Roger Moukarzel

Elly Cardwell

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sur la terre content

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content 08 gourmet travel Le Saint GĂŠran, truly one and only

12 showcase Reach Out to Asia

17 in town

Fresh and new, the latest exciting luxury products, launches and accessories to hit the city

28 unique rides

The new Ferrari California and second generation Porsche 911

34 spotlight

Guillaume Lehideux shares his passions, plans and favourite crystals

37 artopia

Museum of Islamic Art, Doha

42 going global

Elie Saab, a serious couturier with a unique vision

45 shining stars

The cutest kids around highlight the brightest and best up-to-date accessories

53 beauty 56 fashion

The newest fashion trends to grace the catwalks

sur la terre content

64 in vogue

Where to shop and what to look for – the latest exclusive trends in the fashion and shopping world, available to you locally

69 discovery

NoĂŠ Duchaufour-Lawrance applies rigour and humility to interior design

74 design

Beauty, functionalities and new technologies in Aesthetic Ethics

81 i feel like...

Chocolate

82 out of the box

Top picks from the vast range that the local market has to offer

94 chapters

The latest literary launches

95 tunes

Musical trends, artists and albums

96 silver screen

The world of films, documentaries and shows

97 online

Web links for the best downloads, shopping, social and artistic websites

99 society

Highlighting evenings out, parties, openings and private viewings

102 a day in the life...

of Amal Mannai, Director for the Social Development Centre

104 snapshot

A photograph to inspire and admire

105 cultural agenda Cultural events around the region

108 out & about Activities to do in the city

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sur la terre gourmet section travel

< Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s rare to find a destination that fits the bill in all aspects. But the One&Only Le Saint GĂŠran is a rarity >

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Le Saint Géran: Truly one and only Indulge in an incomparable trip to Mauritius.

Dine in a glamorous tipi. Swing on a hammock hung beneath hundreds of swaying palms. Dillydally along beachside tropical gardens. Savour family time while delighting in a lovers’ bath.

Here at the One&Only Le Saint Géran, Mauritius, life’s finer moments are a dreamy reality. >>> “Bienvenue, Madame, comment allez-vous aujourd’hui?” greets Nem, at the resort’s beachside restaurant, where jaded travellers arrive to sumptuous sites and service. Then Nem, over his dark glasses, squints up at the sunny skies and, carrying on the country’s French tongue, Nem exclaims, ‘Quel parfait temps”!

It certainly is a perfect day at the One&Only Le Saint Géran. The atmosphere is enhanced by Prisca, who refreshingly greets guests for breakfast amidst chirping birds in the background. Come evening, the music continues with Dominique, who eagerly prepares a CD of the band’s fantastic music for you to take home.

This is an A-class holiday that makes guests feel wonderful. It’s rare to find a destination that truly fits the bill in all aspects. But the One&Only Le Saint Géran is a rarity, evergreen with holistic elements and glamorous details. Situated northeast of Mauritius, on a private peninsula called Belle-Mare, the resort finds itself in an enclave of nature. Majestic palm trees play footsy with white sandy beach and tropical gardens.

At this breathtaking property, staff are warm and genuinely go out of their way for guests. Visitors are both first-timers and those that come time-and-again. Food deserves a higher term than “gourmet”. The rooms are so good you’d be torn between relaxing or exploring the resort.

There’s a great band, well encored and visited by celebrities such as Whitney Houston and Middle Eastern royalty.

“Experiences are regal and mesmerizing. Try them once, and you’ll return for plenty more.”

It’s all set within an environment of swans and their infants bathing in the ponds nestled between guest rooms and gardens. Seashells are drenched by long stretches of immaculate beach shores, dotted by elated children befriending fauna and flora. Mauritius is an island that prides itself on nature and further to its own luxuriant natural ambience, Le Saint Géran is a man-made bounty. From the designer boutique to boutique-style hospitality, Le Saint Géran fashionably balances charm

< This is an A-class holiday that makes guests feel wonderful >

with luxury, practicality with up-to-the-minute glamour and simplicity with concern for finer details. Even the washrooms are meticulously tended with swan-shaped towels. Trendy exclusivity balances with bighearted warmth.

While epitomising the picture to fall in love with, Le Saint Géran is not only for honeymooners. The resort is fertile with families relishing a holiday in their quest to offer only the best for their children. Four and forty-year-olds enjoy a genuine savoir-vivre that the resort so pleasantly extends.

After the wondrous beach and lush tropical gardens, visit the spa and Pedicure de Bastien, where experiences would leave you delirious, before moving on to the hairdressing salon and glorious gastronomy. To nourish your intellect, a quaint library provides complimentary internet and loans a large array of books and movies to enjoy. Reconnect with nature and rejuvenate in the most delicious ways. From refined tastes to a pure fantasy island, here’s where happiness, happens.

VILLA AND SUITES WITH BEACH AND GARDEN VIEWS One&Only Le Saint Géran comprises Junior and Ocean suites, along with a private villa. All suites are spacious, facing out privately to the sea and tropical gardens, each with its own butler and myriad of creature comforts. Rooms are offered with terrace or balcony. In addition to the suites, a two-bedroom private villa is set in lush tropical gardens, with its own pool, butler, valet and chef – positioned on the easternmost end of the property to ensure maximum privacy.

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< From refined tastes to a pure fantasy island, here’s where happiness, happens >

< La Terrace: Dining is extraordinary and food deserves a higher term than ‘gourmet’ >

TRULY GOURMET TRAVEL At the One&Only Le Saint Géran, dining is extraordinary. Three restaurants and four bars serve up premium world cuisine and fine Mauritian gastronomy.

The sophisticated ‘Spoon des Iles’, by celebrated French chef Alain Ducasse, was voted 5th Best Restaurant in the World by the UK’s foodspecialist ‘Restaurant’ magazine. The avant-garde restaurant serves innovative global cuisine in a sophisticated setting; including a glass bar and a transparent wine cellar with first-class wines from the Old and New Worlds.

‘Rasoi by Vineet’ features the multi-award winning contemporary Indian cuisine of Vineet Bhatia, whose Michelin-starred restaurant in London was named ‘Indian Restaurant of the Year’. At Rasoi, thatched roofs meet art deco. The restaurant is deliciously appointed in exotic style and décor, like crystalline tablemats. Dine amidst outdoor tropics, lake views and velvet midnight blue sky.

‘La Terrace’ is an elegant, white-vaulted terrace restaurant alongside the pool. A superb breakfast buffet is served each morning, à la carte lunch menu, and themed evening buffets and dinners. Guests can dine on three islets set over the swimming pool.

The poolside invites a pleasurable casual lunch with your children or a glorious sunset view nestled at the bar with your sweetheart. What’s more, Guests of One&Only Le Saint Géran are the first to enjoy a completely new experience – ‘the Glampfire’ - dinner on the beach under the stars, around your private bonfire.

RECREATION GALORE One&Only Le Saint Géran is teeming with recreation. Energetic pursuits offer a large array of water sports, tennis and golf while more sedate mental stimulation is on hand. For divers, sites are vast and the boathouse offers that and more water-based recreations in the resort’s protected lagoon. For golfers, there is the 9-hole Gary Player course and private lessons are available at the golf academy.

< At this awesome realty, staff are warm and genuinely go out of their way for guests >

Other land-based sports include five floodlit tennis courts with Peter Burwash International Academy Pro for coaching and partnering. The resort’s sports centre also offers bicycles, bocciball, volleyball, table tennis and other activities. Private courses with a John Battleday waterski/wakeboard instructor or private kite surfing courses with an IKO approved instructor are also available.

Yoga, Tai Chi and a whole range of well-being activities vie for guests’ attention. Finally, a state-of-the-art fitness centre with qualified instructors adds to the pursuits.

NATUROPATHIC MEDICINE One&Only Le Saint Géran offers the expertise of Dr. Chase Webber, its resident Wellness Specialist. Dr. Webber is a Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine, qualified in a broad range of health and fitness disciplines; and internationally considered to be exceptional in his field. He is.

Whether you want to ease the bloat or suffer extreme panic attacks, he will guide you through tailored treatments to lead a healthier lifestyle and which spa treatments are best for your needs and body type. After a thorough well-being consultation, he will formulate a unique holistic plan for you and give you a spa specialist report.

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Dr. Webber incorporates nutrition, exercise, stress management and the use of natural medicine. Treatments are meant to be unwinding to address mental tensions, restorative to address physical tensions; and elevating to address those in dire need of mental and physical relief.

Extend your stay and take advantage of the various 4- and 7-day health and fitness programs to complement the effect.

THE ONE&ONLY SPA A relaxation room and private pool flank a 7,500 sq ft spa with treatment rooms. The spa was voted ‘Number One Spa in Africa, the Middle East and the Indian Ocean’ in the Condé Nast Traveller 2005 Awards and ranked third in the ‘Top 25 Spas in the World’.

Whether you want to restore your serenity, detoxify or simply reenergize, treatments are made to make you feel glorified. And you will. Extensive treatments cover body, hair and face while some are exclusively masculine.

THE EXCELLENCE OF PEDICURE The resort hosts the Bastien Gonzalez Podiatry and Pedicure Clinic.

The French medical pedicurist (chiropodist) has created treatment ceremonials for the beauty and well being of feet and nails.

Facing the beach, the clinic is located just above the spa with a very private and exclusive feel.

Bastien’s pedicure is a global professional treatment, armed with three essential aspects including a medical approach, beauty and a wellbeing sensation massage, such as the recommended foot foundation massage.

< It is here that butler service within a hotel was invented >

ONE&ONLY LE SAINT GÉRAN’S OTHER UNIQUE FACTORS • Since opening in 1975, Mauritius’ first international resort–style five star hotel has been setting the standards for service, style and glamour on the island. Now open for over thirty years, the resort welcomes generations of families back, year after year.

• Service – the dedication and skill of the team at One&Only Le Saint Géran is the stuff of legend. Many of the staff have been with the resort since the day it opened.

• One&Only Le Saint Géran is incredibly private. With a palace-like gate entrance, the resort is neither over-looked by anything or anyone.

• One&Only Le Saint Géran provides superb facilities for younger guests; mini-masks, mini-fins, mini-snorkels and short water skis – not one detail has been missed to ensure that the they have an equally fabulous time as their parents. The resort’s inter-connecting Junior Suites and a Kids Only club also help parents rest assured.

• Sport for all, with complimentary access and free basic tuition for all water sports, tennis, cross-country cycling and golf.

• Constantly innovative – it is here that butler service within a hotel was invented. Now 34 butlers cater to guests’ needs. All are trained by Englishman Ivor Spencer who has over 50 years experience of personal service, including a stint at Buckingham Palace.

• The home of the exquisite One&Only Tipi designed by iconic British designer Alice Temperley boasts a hand-sewn, bejewelled canvas exterior and a white and gold gauze interior, with an antique Murano glass chandelier from Venice, a natural wood floor, gorgeous cushions and fabrics, and a chest full of champagne. Hire it for dinner, for spa treatments, for parties and private celebrations.

• A separate programme of suggested activities is designed to appeal to teenage guests.

Over the years, Le Saint Géran has received a collection of awards. The resort is one hour from the airport and 45 minutes from the capital of Port Louise.

If you would like to explore Mauritius, the resort can help arrange a whole range of excursions, including quad biking amidst glorious mountain ranges, a trip to the sugar cane museum, city tours and other island recreations.

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sur la terre showcase

Reach Out To Asia

Reach Out To Asia supports the ideal that maintains education is a fundamental human right and aims to achieve education for children and adults around the world. It also believes that every man, woman and child across the Asian continent, regardless of age, gender or circumstance, should have access to quality education. With new projects nearing completion and others just starting, we look at ROTA hard at work and helping those most in need. >>> ROTA operates under the umbrella of Qatar Foundation, a private, non-profit organization founded in 1995 by His Highness Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, Emir of Qatar, and chaired

by Her Highness Sheikha Mozah bint Nasser Al Misned, which is committed to and guided by the principle that a nationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s greatest natural

resource is its people. A Non-Governmental Organization (NGO), ROTA has a strategic geographic location within Asia and the Middle East giving it a unique opportunity to support its neighboring countries as they overcome developmental difficulties.

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Syria Trust ROTA announced recently a partnership with the Syria Trust for Development (The Syria Trust) to improve the educational conditions for Syrian and Iraqi children and youth and aid the Syrian government in coping with the increasing demands on the existing educational system.

Since the Iraqi war of 2003, the influx of about 1.5 million Iraqi citizens into Syria has resulted in the intensifying need to secure the social, economic, educational, and medical needs of these refugees. A majority of Iraqi children do not have access to formal education, nonformal education, vocational training and ICT basics. ROTA and the Syria Trust propose the launch of an initiative focusing on children’s education. The initiative’s overall strategic objective is to encourage Iraqi and Syrian youth to develop the skills that mark out successful and empowered individuals. The main pillars are to increase the number of youth with access to learning opportunities through construction of learning centres; educate and raise awareness among youth, parents, teachers and community members regarding new cultural and social dynamics; and enhance the capacity of the community by providing teachers with access to professional development training and developing programs to provide Iraqi and Syrian youth with technical as well as key skills in entrepreneurship, research, reasoning with and organising information, teamwork, communication, planning tasks, implementing projects, conducting plays and leading logical debates. In this first phase, the proposed pilot project will be run in two areas (Siyadda Zeinab and Jaramana) for the fiscal year July 2008 – June 2009. Two learning centres will be constructed in two different locations in rural Damascus. These centres will be host programmes initiated by ROTA and the Syria Trust. Each CLC is a multi-purpose facility that will allocate space for a training hall, computer

lab, a reading corner and an activity room. The computer lab will be used to teach students how to use information technology in their daily schoolwork, conduct online research and write academic papers, among other things.

It will also enable those students to be part of ROTA’s Knowledge Network, to engage with other students across Asia and to share resources and experiences.

Pakistan In response to the 2005 earthquake in Pakistan, ROTA committed to rebuilding 17 schools (10 permanent and 7 temporary) all of which were in the earthquake affected Union Council of Nar Sher Ali Khan in the state of Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK). The schools were completely destroyed during the massive earthquake, which rocked northern Pakistan on October 8, 2005 and resulted in the death of over 73,000 people. The estimated cost of damages was over

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US $5 billion and in excess of 3.3 million people were left injured or homeless. ROTA was one of the first NGOs to reach the devastated areas of northern Pakistan following the earthquake and provide basic amenities. Now, after 2 years, the first phase of the project has been completed, giving over 2,300 students access and a return to education. On Friday June 13th, 2008, all seventeen schools were officially handed over to the Pakistani Government, specifically through the Earthquake Reconstruction and Rehabilitation Authority (ERRA), during an inauguration ceremony that took place at the Rai Kot Girls Middle School. The delegation was led by Her Excellency Sheikha Aisha Bint Faleh Al Thani, ROTA board member, Omnia Nour, Director of ROTA, and other top officials from ROTA and representatives from the Qatar Red Crescent and media, as well as the Qatari Ambassador to Pakistan H.E Hamad Ali Al Hanzab. The inauguration of the 17 schools is

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sur la terre showcase section

“Let us all work together, caring for our little buds.

Let us plant them deep in the consciousness of our land. Let us nurture them with love and care to help them blossom into flowers filled with beautiful scents and filling their surroundings with beauty.”

Her Highness Sheikha Mozah bint Nasser Al Misnad; Chairperson, Qatar Foundation and Consort of His Highness the Emir

part of the first phase of rehabilitation efforts undertaken by ROTA in close coordination with the Pakistan Government, Qatar Red Crescent and other social and community organisations.

The other phases of the ROTA project in Pakistan, which continues till February 2011, includes equipping the schools with necessary capacity to improve quality of education, twinning of schools / connecting the universities and encouraging volunteer participation from the youth community in Pakistan and Qatar. In addition to the restoration and rebuilding of the damaged education infrastructure in Azad Jammu & Kashmir (Muzaffarabad & Neelum, Bagh and Poonch), the project will have a direct impact on securing the achievement of educational objectives of students within the local community, national educational strategies and influence the achievement of universal UNESCO Education for All goals by 2015.

Lebanon ROTA has partnered with the Ministry of Education and Higher Education (MEHE) in Lebanon to ensure the provision of quality education to all youth on the Lebanese territory, and one of their strategic goals set in year 2007 is to ensure “Education for All”. In Lebanon, no accurate statistics indicate the number of visually impaired persons, number of sight disabilities or of casualties affected by the war or injured by other violent incidents. ROTA would like to utilize its specialty and know-how in computerization and assisting the visually impaired in order to help the Ministry attend to the needs of inclusion of those persons. MEHE has been managing the process of receiving visually impaired students taking official examinations since 1992 by coordinating

efforts with the different NGOs available in the area which are active within this domain. These NGOs include Alkafaat (Hadath), the Lebanese School for the blind and deaf (Baabda), Alhadi Institution, Dar Al-Aytam (Alhoda, Albayan), Alamabarrat and Chabibat Alhuda. Until today, only a small number of public schools has been contacting MEHE directly to declare their registered candidates for visually impaired examinations. The project “Computerization of official examinations for visually impaired students” is a joint effort between the ministry, schools and NGOs to improve youth literacy.

The approach will focus on promoting and investing in access to educational opportunities and in the development of human resources, in close partnership with the communities. This project aims at assisting the MEHE in Lebanon in providing the means for visually impaired students to complete secondary school through the computerization of examinations at the end of their schooling.

Indonesia With the completion of the kindergarten, primary and middle secondary schools in Bayat, ROTA sent a team to evaluate the next steps in assisting the school to develop its program and optimizing the use of the school by the community. The mission discovered that the students of Bayat school are very enthusiastic about their school, especially the facilities of the library. ROTA’s partner, Titian Foundation, is actively working with school administration to assist with school management activities and providing teachers with the latest teaching methodologies through training workshops.

Bayat is a village of about 110,000 inhabitants.

At present, school is subsidized by the Government up to grade 9. After grade 9,

about 20% will drop out because the parents cannot pay for the school fee, especially those with more than 2 children. For this reason Titian is very concerned for the future of these children. Keeping them in school for another 3 years study will help these children have better skill and the chance will improve the future family income and reduce poverty. The local Government in Klaten has acknowledged the ROTA-Titian school in Bayat as a model school and the school of their pride. To show their appreciation for this generous gift, they have cleared the land where the school is going to be built and pledged to give any help they can to make this project successful and achieve the level that it deserves, as well as helping to provide the best teachers for the school.

Afghanistan Afghanistan is one of ROTA’s priority countries.

Years of conflict and war have resulted in a serious interruption to the education process.

There are many challenges and despite the huge amount of foreign aid directed specifically towards education, there is still a need for much more to be done. Murad Khane is one of the poorest areas of Kabul, according to Action Contre La Faim’s indicators in their 2004 Kabul vulnerability mapping. Many residents are illiterate; most lack basic healthcare. Some residents have contractual, skilled work, but many do not. Very few women are employed gainfully. Houses are dilapidated, overcrowded, streets are full of garbage and basic services (drainage, sewerage, electricity) are not present. Over half of Murad Khane’s families came to Kabul as refugees, forced from their homes by the war and poor economy. At least half the families live below the international

sur la terre showcase section

poverty line of $1 per person per day. Turquoise Mountain has begun addressing all these problems but there is more that has to be done to improve the living standards, improve health, employability and create livelihoods, especially for women. ROTA and Turquoise Mountain will establish a three-year partnership designed to improve the lives of the community, especially women and children, in Murad Khane and to create permanent links between Afghan communities and the people of Qatar. As part of the partnership, ROTA and Turquoise Mountain will work together on tailored projects, including education and skills-building for sustainable development such as development of a public school in Murad Khane, literacy and skills training for women, community development programs and creating a dedicated 760 square metres courtyard facility for use by women and children. This collaboration will contribute to the stability and prosperity of Kabul and the surrounding area by providing 1) short-term and long-term training and employment; 2) operating schools of traditional arts; 3) mentoring new businesses, and; 4) improving the health and welfare of women. It will link Afghanistan to Qatar’s numerous educational and business resources, and will enrich Qatar’s standing as a leading nation in the Muslim world for philanthropy, education, culture and business.

Ramadan Campaign – The Sidra Tree The Holy Month of Ramadan is the month of goodwill, giving, friendliness, and family reunion. In continuation with last Ramadan project’s success, ROTA is looking for continuous support and commitment to bringing smiles to someone in need during the upcoming Holy Month of Ramadan. The Sidra Tree is a

beacon of learning and comfort in the desert.

Traditionally the shade of the Sidra tree was a retreat for poets and scholars, who gathered beneath its branches to discuss and impart knowledge. The fruit, flowers and leaves of the Sidra, whose deep roots allow it to flourish in harsh desert climates, were components in many traditional medicines. All these qualities make the Sidra a beloved icon in Qatari history and culture. In addition, Reach Out To Asia’s Sidra tree is a beacon of renewed hope, its branches hold the wishes of children, youth and families throughout Qatar and Asia towards a better tomorrow. This year’s project will be a combination of environmental campaign, as well as an open invitation to the public. A design for 3D trees will be implemented and from it environmentally friendly materials will be produced. It will be a partnership between schools to produce the best tree, the best of which will be selected by a jury committee of 10 sponsors. Selected trees will be displayed in three different malls, City Center, Villagio and Landmark, as well as Hamad Hospital, carrying the exclusive sponsor name and school name.On every tree there will be a number of suspended wish cards, and inside each card there will be a request to donate either money or materials (the wish list will include: education, health and food). The aim is to drive mall customers to donate the requested material(s) and buy the corresponding coupon. The countries that will benefit from the Sidra Campaign include Pakistan, Afghanistan, Yemen, Palestine, Iraq and Qatar. Volunteers participation will also be required before and during Ramadan.

The activities are packing and distribution of groceries and cooking meals to distribute to those in need.

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Volunteers One of ROTA’s guiding principles is the strong belief in volunteerism and they base their overarching goals on its foundation. They feel that communities should come to the assistance of other communities, which is why they rely heavily on the dedication and service of their volunteers to effect real change, both domestically and across Asia. The aim of ROTA’s Volunteer Department is to encourage, engage and educate all sectors of the community to participate in the spirit of volunteerism and community work, both inside and outside of Qatar, to further ROTA’s vision and mission.

For further information on Reach Out To Asia, or if you are interested in volunteering and assisting them in reaching their goals, contact them directly via their website www.reachouttoasia.org or call +974-480 0296.

In Town

sur la terre in town

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Pomellato Pomellato, with its strong and seductive style, interprets a universal symbol of love - a large curved heart, brimming with romanticism and light, shining from a clustre of numerous brown diamonds and emphasising rose-cut brown diamonds in a pavé setting of white gold. The precious new pieces at the centre of the 2008 Sabbia collection are a ring and heart-shaped earrings in white and pink gold.

Available at Ali bin Ali, Doha, Qatar.

est exciting Fresh and new, the lat hes and luxury products, launc city e th hit to accessories

Ermenegildo Zegna Ermenegildo Zegna, the global men’s luxury fashion brand known for its fine tailouring and innovative use of the most exquisite fabrics, combines an interesting colour palette to add glamour to its Autumn/Winter 2008 Upper Casual Collection. Upper Casual is the sophisticated expression of Ermenegildo Zegna leisure wear, and nature is pivotal to the new collection with the debut of the ‘Oasis Cashmere’ project and the creative application of the ‘Elements’ fabric inspired by nature’s design of the pine cone.

Laurentia at Damas The latest collections of Laurentia, named Moon and Loto, are now being showcased at Damas.

The Italian jewellery brand is widely recognised for its design explorations, using the technique of stamping gold metal sheeting to obtain unique articles that are normally difficult to create.

Resulting from this unique process are patented collections that are marked by unusually colourful knots, locks, joints and couplings. Top quality semi-precious stones are used to emphasise the designs and add extra value to every Laurentia creation.

Armaan debuts in the GCC Armaan Swiss Diamond Watches is the latest luxury timepiece manufacturer that looks set to capitalise on the continued growth of the GCC retail sector. Specialising in high-end diamond encrusted watches, Armaan SDW was launched in December 2007 in Miami and has already taken their two collections to Europe at this year’s BaselWorld International Watch and Jewellery Fair in Switzerland. With their timepieces having been well received in the USA and Europe already, they now look set to capture the Middle East market too.

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sur la terre in town

Graff’s Gypsy Collection Graff, the internationally-acclaimed London jewellery house, presents tempting creations from its Gypsy Collection. Inspired by the Bohemian lifestyle, this collection adopts the iconic motif of the hoop, and includes exquisitely crafted hoop earrings adorned with marquise, pear and baguette cut diamonds in striking hues of pink, yellow and white.

Tiffany & Co. Tiffany & Co., the legendary American design house and style icon, presents its latest assortment of Celebration Rings – highly original jewels dedicated to mark every goal, dream, triumph and milestone in life. Crafted from platinum and set with sparkling diamond

brilliants as well as pink and blue sapphires, the latest selection symbolises each and any twist and turn on the road to success and selffulfillment. Narrow and feminine to wide and dramatic, pursue your personal style and stack up the glamour.

Ciel Fragrance for men and women

Paris Gallery, the flagship brand of Al Fahim Holdings, recently announced the launch of the House of Amouage’s latest fragrance, Ciel. The fragrance, which has been re-worked and re-packaged in signature livery, was created by internationally-celebrated master perfumers in Grasse in the South of France.

Ciel for women is a pure, delicate and floral fragrance, while Ciel for men is a fresh fougère with top notes of lavender, jasmine and lily-ofthe-valley over a warm, green base of vetyver, cedar and silver frankincense.

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sur la terre in town

Belen Echandia A/W 2008

Established in 2004, Belen Echandia is a global fashion brand renowned for both its exclusive, limited edition handbags and purses and its uniquely personal customer service. Belen Echandia is sold in many of the world’s most well-regarded stores, including Fred Segal in LA, Henri Bendel in New York, Harvey Nichols in Dubai and Browns Focus in London. It is this selective distribution, supported by impressive

Estée Lauder’s new Super Flight Crème

Estée Lauder introduces a new and Duty Free exclusive: Super Flight Crème Continuous Hydration for Face and Super Flight Crème Continuous Hydration for Eyes, for both men and women. The stress of flying, extreme humidity levels, dry cabin air and jet lag can take its toll on skin and cause it to become dry, uncomfortable

word of mouth and a hands-on approach to customer service that has established Belen Echandia as one of fashion’s most in demand cult labels. Each of the designs has Belen Echandia’s trademark fuchsia pink lining and comes with fuchsia rhinestone leather tags.

Belen Echandia A/W 2008 Collection can be ordered online at: www.belenechandia.com

and unhealthy. Moisturizing benefits of Super Flight Crème Continuous Hydration for Face and Super Flight Crème Continuous Hydration for Eyes last eight hours and will leave you stepping off the plane looking visibly rested and radiant.

Christian Dior Cell Phones Today, in line with the New Look that revolutionized the world of fashion in 1947, Christian Dior follows its tradition of innovation, creativity and know-how, integrating a new item in its universe of seduction: the Dior Phone. The Dior Phone allies the iconic code of the brand

name with highly prestigious materials such as diamond, sapphire, crystal and steel. Presenting remarkable technological characteristics such as a crystal clear sound, a perfect resolution that integrates extremely vibrant colors and an ultra-flat electroluminescent key pad, the Dior

Phone is thought through to the smallest detail to meet the daily needs of the Dior woman.

Available at the Christian Dior boutique, Villagio Mall, Qatar.

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THE One Presents: Boudoir Beauties This autumn, give your bedroom a magic makeover and snooze in style. Use chic basics inspired by nature to create a dreamy sanctuary where you can relax your mind with beautiful boudoir styles that will turn your bedroom into a high fashion hideaway. Get the Zen effect with THE One’s dramatically dark brown Zora bed, matching bedside tables and dresser; for a more feminine feel go for the Juicy bed and bedside tables in vintage pink, or drift off to dreamland in an Isabella four-poster in pure white or rich wenge.

Accessorise with sparkling silver, pale pastels, priceless props and calming candles for a cosy ambience you won’t want to leave.

Oliver Goldsmith Oliver Goldsmith Sunglasses have been said to have the most influential design heritage of any eyewear company still in production.

Since 1926 the iconic British eyewear brand, whose aficionados include Grace Kelly, Audrey Hepburn, Michael Caine and Sophia Loren, has been instrumental in opening people’s minds to the idea that sunglasses are a key accessory to any outfit. The international re-launch of the brand in 2005, led by Claire Goldsmith, Oliver Goldsmith’s great granddaughter, has seen its timeless designs reclaim their rightful place on the shelves of discerning high end boutiques, design stores and retail destinations worldwide. For stockists or to order online, check: www.olivergoldsmith.com

Precious Watches PO6 Sleek, smart and masculine with a distinct cosmopolitan attitude, PO6 men’s watches are the epitome of style. Stainless steel powered by ultra precise Swiss movement team up with durable leather accents, while bold rivets screwed onto sleek stainless steel frames project rugged confidence. The black face

of PO6 “Ice” with its forceful accents makes it the coolest choice for the man who loves adventure in the urban jungle, and the PO6 “Avant-garde” sports an innovative transparent face that takes style to unchartered limits. PO6 is synonymous with elegance with a sharp masculine edge.

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sur la terre in town

the new tiguan Volkswagen Qatar presented its long awaited compact Sports Utility Vehicle, the Tiguan, at a press conference held in their Qatar showroom recently. The Tiguan, a versatile SUV, is recommended for drivers who enjoy the individual appearance and flexibility of an SUV but also expect a premium level of comfort, agility and variability. It offers a variety of luxury options for its drivers, such as the Park Assist feature and the latest radio-navigation system (RNS 510), which navigates using its off-road function. So far the Tiguan has attracted an enormous amount of interest worldwide, as well as in Qatar, and is the biggest launch for Volkswagon this year.

Motorola makes driving easier

Motorola, a global leader in the Bluetooth accessories market, offers a selection of portable and fixed automotive-focused Bluetooth solutions for drivers including speakerphones, headsets and other accessories.

The MOTOPURE H12 supports CrystalTalk technology enchancing audio quality, so you can now have a disturbance free conversation while on the move. In addition to its headsets, Motorola also offers MOTOROKR T505 Bluetooth In-Car Speakerphone and Digital FM Transmitter, which is extremely portable and requires no wires or installation.

Maserati GranTurismo S Alfardan Sports Motors Company, a member of Alfardan Group and the exclusive importer of the ultra-luxurious Maserati brand in Qatar, recently unveiled the new Maserati GranTurismo S, a world premier that debuted at the Geneva International Motor show.

The Maserati GranTurismo S is characterised by a number of aesthetic modifications that, although discrete, are highly effective

at boosting the sporty look of the car body without abandoning the sleekness of the lines masterfully designed by Pininfarina. The début of the GranTurismo S comes in the wake of the now consolidated success of the Maserati GranTurismo — which is still turning heads and winning critical and public acclaim exactly one year after its world début.

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Rolls-Royce bespoke The Middle East has been a major driver in the Rolls-Royce Bespoke Programme - the facility which allows customers to create unique features and specifications for their cars. The company has revealed that the region boasts one of the highest volumes of Bespoke orders, having doubled its share of sales over the first quarter 2007 and featuring the richest specifications for individual cars in the world.

The most recent and dramatic example of a special Bespoke model was unveiled at the opening of a new Rolls-Royce showroom in Doha, in the form of a special Phantom

Drophead Coupé, called “Arabesque” which was commissioned for The Prince’s School of Traditional Arts in London. The school’s mission was to keep the traditional arts of all the world’s great cultures alive yet give them a modern day relevance. This Rolls-Royce is the automotive expression of that ambition. The interior and exterior are inspired by Arabesque themes and the success of the design came as a result of detailed discussions between students of the school and Rolls-Royce’s Bespoke design and engineering team.

The new 7 Series Seven years after the launch of BMW’s bestselling 7 Series model, one of the world’s most successful premium automotive manufacturers has announced plans to launch its newest generation 7 Series model in November 2008. Offering stylish design, outstanding performance, luxury, power and sheer driving pleasure, the flagship BMW 7 Series will continue to set the trends in the luxury performance class.

Privatdrive Supercar Show, The Pearl Qatar, 21st - 22nd November 2008 The Privatdrive Supercar Show is a dream come true for motor enthusiasts and if you are interested in luxury high-end cars, this one-of-its-kind event is definitely the place to head. Luxury supercars including the latest from Bentley, Ferrari, Lamborghini, Mercedes, Porsche and Rolls Royce, together worth more than QR35 million, will all make the journey to one of the region’s most awaited real estate projects – The Pearl Qatar – for this not to be missed exhibition. Featuring only the most exclusive and luxurious supercars, the Monacobased Privatdrive Club, organisers of the event, was founded and is owned by entrepreneur Mr Alexis Lallement-Steiner and is one of the world’s most unique membership clubs, with a selective membership list featuring high-net worth individuals and successful businessmen handpicked from across the globe. www.Privatdrive.com

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sur la terre unique rides

Ferrari California Due to be launched at the Paris International Motor Show on October 2nd 2008, the California is an extraordinary car and delivers the performance, comfort and driving pleasure Ferrari is infamous for. >>> The California is, like all Ferraris, the epitome of cutting-edge innovation. Its gearbox, suspensions and chassis are the most advanced possible. This is the first dual-purpose Spider/Coupé with a retractable hard top, closing in just 14 seconds, but despite its extraordinary performance, the California 2+ is also exceptionally easy to drive and has enough space behind the front seats to make it supremely flexible in terms of usage.

< Michael Schumacher, working on the Ferrari California at the Fiorano track with test drivers Dario Benuzzi and Raffaele De Simone >

Like the rest of the current Prancing Horse range, the Ferrari California has been aerodynamically designed to deliver significant downforce values – 70 kg at 200 km/h, in fact. This is the first time too that the new 7-speed dual clutch has been used on a Ferrari car, the technology being the fruit of in-depth gear shifting systems researched by the Scuderia Ferrari. The system utilised on the Ferrari California cuts the gear shifting time to zero and enhances to the utmost the car’s performance

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in terms of comfort and driveability. Performance is further boosted by the new Launch Control button which, when hit, delivers blistering high performance starts by ensuring correct torque delivery and preventing tyre spin during acceleration.

Currently completing the track and road development stages of the Ferrari California Michael Schumacher, the seven times Formula 1 world champion, has been involved in the development of the latest Prancing Horse road car since its inception and has worked with Ferrariâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s team of engineers, technicians and test-drivers on honing the car in general, but more specifically on optimising its performance parameters.

Š 2008 Ferrari S.p.A.

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Porsche 911

Among the best sports cars in the world, the Porsche 911 stands for the perfect synthesis of sportiness, superior everyday use, all-round economy and genuine environmental compatibility.

Introducing a new and truly comprehensive range of technologies, the new 911 Carrera confirms this outstanding position once again. >>> The brand-new boxer engine features direct gasoline injection and the optionally available Porsche double-clutch transmission (or PDK for short) are two particular highlights. The new 911 Carrera models come as standard with a manual six-speed gearbox, and the optionally available seven-speed PDK double-clutch transmission is making its world debut Porsche is the first car maker to offer the PDK transmission in a production sports car, replacing the former Tiptronic S automatic transmission.

Through their design alone, the new Carrera models clearly and convincingly reflect the quality of ongoing development at Porsche.

sur la terre unique rides

In designing the new front end, for example, Porscheâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s designers have given the utmost attention to a dynamic and superior look, the somewhat larger air intakes at the outside giving the 911 a truly outstanding appearance and clearly expressing the supreme power and performance of the new generation. All models in the 911 range now come as standard with bi-xenon headlights and LED technology for daytime driving lights, positioning lights, and striking rear lights. Together with the newly designed standard wheels in 18 and 19 inches as well as the exhaust tailpipes integrated harmoniously in the new rear body panel, the new-generation 911 models stand out clearly from the crowd.

The sophisticated interior of the 911 Carrera also makes its mark. To ensure an even higher standard of convenience in controlling the car, the new 911 features a new generation of Porsche Communication Management (PCM) with a 6.5 inch touchscreen monitor. PCM may also be combined with further modules, offering the customer the choice of a navigation module with an integrated 40 GB hard disc, a telephone module with a BluetoothÂŽinterface, as well as the latest generation of voice control, and last but certainly not least, the driver or passenger are now also able to control external audio sources directly from the PCM via USB or iPodÂŽinterfaces.

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sur la terre spotlight

Guillaume Lehideux

Guillaume Lehideux, the International Commercial Director for the luxurious Baccarat crystal brand, shares his passion, future plans and all time favourite crystals with Sur la Terre.

1. Baccarat is an exclusive and extremely luxurious crystal brand with stores and outlets all around the world, and a reputation for beautiful iconic pieces. What is your role within the company, and how do you see that expanding in the future?

I have been in charge of International Sales for Baccarat SA for almost two years now. Basically I manage the operations for the different distribution networks of the brand, retail, wholesale and corporate, as well as coordinate the sales teams with the head office, local affiliates and subsidiaries within foreign markets. As with all members of the Board of Directors, my main challenge is to bring all the best I can to the construction and perennity of the brand. The reputation of Baccarat has been built over the last 264 years. This has to be protected and consolidated while we are moving forward in the development of the brand. Working for such a company is easy, thanks to the know how and the quality of the work of the craftsmen. The brand image is strong and consistent. As with all the team members at Baccarat my main challenge is to protect this while we are building the next steps in the brand recognition and visibility.

We are only a link in the history of one of the first luxury brands that has been created in the world. We have to maintain Baccarat at the best of creation, design and manufacturing as it has always been, yet being contemporary and in the trend of today’s time.

2. You’ve been with the company for quite a

while. How did you start out with Baccarat, and what did your roles entail then?

Yes, I’ve been lucky enough to work with the group for some time now! I’ve actually been with the company since 1999, and started out as the General Manager of Baccarat Americas in Miami (USA). My role then basically entailed the creation, launch and management of the Baccarat subsidiary for the Americas, including Latin America, Mexico and the Caribbean. At the beginning of 2004 I moved back to Paris as the European Commercial Director for Baccarat SA, which entailed the management of the commercial operations of the brand in Europe, and coordination and management of the subsidiaries. I also oversaw the brand distribution development on European markets, then I was appointed VP for International Sales in November 2006.

3. Why do you think Baccarat is so popular?

Everything happens for a reason. Baccarat is popular because for more than two and a half centuries the brand has been producing the best of luxury crystal items with incredible creations through times. The name is even stronger than just a brand name, it became a reference in its world of luxury lifestyle - for many people, a piece of Baccarat is synonymous with the top lifestyle experience. We have always been working with the most talented designers, many of whom have won international awards for their work, such as Philippe Stark, and they make Baccarat pieces come to life. People value this very much. We also employ some of the

best craftsmen in France. We offer exclusive collections, and propose customised pieces for selected clientele with a specific desire or vision for a Baccarat piece. We also offer limited editions of special pieces. Our pieces are timeless yet modern, innovative yet often very pure and simple. They are made with a passion for perfection, a passion you can see in every single Baccarat piece, whether it is a chandelier, a piece of jewellery or a decorative item. Baccarat is popular because people value the tradition of the best craftsmens’ work.

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8. What kind of items do Baccarat design, and what kind of service do they offer their customers once they have become Baccarat followers?

Baccarat designs jewellery, fashion accessories, decorative items, tableware, lighting, furniture, and, of course their limited edition collections!

We have also developed a specific customer service programme which is aimed at offering the best possible services to our customers by finding out exactly what they want and need from us, and doing our best to provide it to them. Because, the world of Baccarat is all about experiences, moments in life and lifestyle with a certain philosophy, all that can convey that feeling to our followers, in the respect of the Baccarat style, is something we want to work on. The moment spent in a Baccarat restaurant in our Maison Baccarat in Paris and Moscow are opportunities to bring that life experience to reality. We need to continue on that path.

4. How does your Middle East range compare with those worldwide?

We usually do not propose specific items to another market, but tastes are obviously quite different depending on the areas. We are experiencing a phenomenal increase of the interest for the Baccarat collections in the Middle East - many of our clients are already familiar with the Baccarat name and are delighted to have the opportunity to order custom made items to their styles, colours and eventually sizes that can be made on demand.

This is one of the keys for success of our local boutiques and stores. In Doha we are already available on Al Sadd street, and are in the new Tanagra store in the luxury wing of Villagio. We export to 85 countries around the world, and in the Middle East we are already located in Doha, the UAE, Kuwait, Bahrain and Saudi Arabia.

5. From Baccarat’s entire range of divine pieces, what do you think is the most well known?

For more than 150 years, the Harcourt glass has been an iconic piece for Baccarat. It carries a lot of codes and signs of the brand. An item that can go through time like this and remain trendy whatever the period is somehow magical. More recently, the adaptation of our traditional Zenith chandelier by Philippe Starck has also reached an amazing level of success and is recognized throughout the world.

6. Do you have customers who buy a piece just because they fall in love with it and have to have it, or do you get customers who ask for a specific collection for a place they already have in mind?

We have a wide clientele, and our catalogue has a large range of pieces, from iconic to avant garde, from classic to modern and contemporary. Baccarat Jewellery is probably more of an impulsive reaction to a design or a colour as the trend, the originality of the design of a piece of jewelry will guide the purchase decision. Obviously the decoration and design is more attached to the environment where the piece is to be set and the general style of the interior it is dedicated to. For that, the choice is more the result of a specific thought, yet the specificity of Baccarat is the flexibility it offers in terms of style. Some of our customers have a firm and settled idea of their wishes, some as you say just “fall in love” with one design and figure out right away where it can be set in their home or yacht. But you know sometimes a 124 light chandelier can be just as an impulsive buy as a piece of jewellery can be!

7. Baccarat is an exclusive yet highly diverse company. How do you know if what you are looking at is actually true Baccarat?

The transparency of the crystal and the reflexion of the light are definitely magic when you look at a Baccarat piece. Red is also a reference for Baccarat. Our signature on chandeliers are a red crystal drop.

9. Do Baccarat have plans to expand into any other areas in the future?

Off course we do! We are planning on and working towards developing 5 star hotels concept around the world. This is something obviously carried out with the expertise of our majority shareholder since 2005, Starwood Capital, prestigious player in that activity. We have in mind very exclusive and luxurious hotels, offering the special Baccarat touch at every turn. It will be a mix of our avant garde, modern, contemporary and classics orientations! Hotels have already been confirmed for the Caribbean and Hawaii so far, and several more will follow in the next few years. More recently we have also announced the launch of a new project of hotel and residences at the Dubai Pearl.

10. Can you tell me one thing that people don’t know about Baccarat, something they wouldn’t expect?

People would probably not expect me to tell you something nobody knows about the brand.... In all seriousness I can tell you that the challenge for us all at Baccarat is to surprise our faithfull customers but also to bring new followers to the brand. For this we need to be creative and to raise the limit also in terms of technicity and manufacturing processes. So we never stop searching and innovating. The best speech I can give you about the brand would be to simply recommend a trip to one of the Maison Baccarats, the restaurant, the stores and most of all if you have the chance, the main ‘Manufacture’. It speaks for itself and has to be seen to be believed. This is all about luxury... creation, craftsmen know how and quality!

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Museum of Islamic Art The Museum of Islamic Art, whose long awaited and highly anticipated opening is scheduled for 22nd November 2008, is a pioneering project that sets apart the cultural vision of the State of Qatar, both in the region and across the world. Under the guiding vision of Her Excellency Sheikha Al Mayassa bint Hamad bin Khalifa Al-Thani, Chairperson of the Qatar Museums Authority Board of Trustees, the project sets the founding stone in the cultural blueprint to transform the State of Qatar into a global capital of culture.

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>>> Qatar Museums Authority was created in December 2005 to combine the resources of all museums in the State of Qatar. The Authority’s vision is to provide a comprehensive umbrella under which future plans will be drawn for the development of national museums and the establishment of an effective system for collecting,protecting,preserving and interpreting historic sites, monuments and artifacts.

The Museum of Islamic Art itself stands as an architectural masterpiece just off Doha’s prized Corniche, on an island made of reclaimed land. Pritzker Prize laureate, I.M. Pei, was commissioned to design the breathtaking Museum, inspiration for which he found in the 13th century sabil (ablutions fountain) of the 9th century Mosque of Ahmad ibn Tulun in Cairo, Egypt.

“The Museum of Islamic Art itself stands as an architectural masterpiece” The stone-clad Museum is composed of a five-storey main building and a two-storey education wing, which are connected across a central courtyard. The main building’s angular volumes step back progressively as they rise around a 50m high central domed atrium, which is concealed from outside view by the walls of a central tower. All five floors of the

atrium offer stunning views of the Gulf and West Bay area of Doha through a glass curtain, which rises to a height of 45m on the north side of the Museum. Inside Doha’s newest landmark, the Museum’s artworks date from the 7th through to the 19th century and have been collected from three continents, including countries across the Middle East and as far reaching as Spain and India. Representing the full scope of Islamic art, the collection is comprised of well preserved and detailed manuscripts, ceramics, metal, glass, ivory, textiles, wood and precious stones, amongst others. The collection is mapped to offer a narrative that is tailored to a modern audience, offering visitors the experience of a journey through time and across cultures and regions.

The Museum of Islamic Art is dedicated to reflecting the full vitality, complexity and diversity of the arts of the Islamic world. It is a world-class collecting institution, which preserves, studies and exhibits masterpieces spanning three continents and 13 centuries.

As a centre for information, research and creativity, the Museum aspires to reach the widest possible global audience through interactive engagement. Through a strong platform of partnerships with museums around the world, the Museum of Islamic Art serves as an international centre for dialogue and cultural exchange.

Facilities • Two floors of permanent exhibition galleries • One main temporary gallery • Two outdoor courtyards flanking a vast open atrium area • A 200-seat auditorium • A 5-star restaurant • A fountain café • Prayer halls for men and women • A gift and bookshop • A world-class conservation lab • A library and closed rare-books study section • Classrooms and offices

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sur la terre going global section

Elie Saab

Elie Saab has become synonymous with luxury and modernism. A serious couturier with a powerful and unique vision, Saab was born in Beirut on fourth July, and his interest in dressmaking became apparent at an early age. At only 9 years old, he spent much of his free time cutting patterns and drawing sketches for his sisters using his mother’s tablecloths and curtains. >>> In 1982, at the tender age of 18, Elie Saab opened his first atelier in Lebanon with ten employees. He began designing luxurious evening gowns and exquisite wedding dresses and quickly proved that his talent surpassed his age when he showed his first collection at the Casino Du Liban in Beirut. Garnering extensive media coverage, Saab’s astounding debut collection dazzled the Lebanese press, who instantly dubbed him the “precocious genius.”

Throughout the 1980’s, the Elie Saab couture house became a magnet for princesses clamoring to buy his lavish evening wear. His successive couture collections have been an enduring testament to his ability to innovate, as Saab showcased clothing that was always feminine and alluring on the runway.

In the 1990’s, as Saab’s reputation spread through the international media, he continued to expand his business, moving to a larger atelier in Beirut and organizing exclusive fashion shows in Europe. Another landmark moment came for Saab in 1997, when he was invited to take part in the prestigious Camera Nazionale della Moda as the only nonItalian designer to be invited at that time. He also began to show his couture collection in Rome during Alta Moda Fashion week.

With new showroom representation in Italy in 1998, Saab launched his first ready-to-wear collection in Milan to rave reviews. The collection experienced tremendous success, gathering sales worldwide including Paris, London, Madrid, Moscow, Los Angeles, New York and Hong Kong. In 2000, Saab opened a salon and showroom in Paris’s eighth arrondissement to target his cosmopolitan and international clientele.

That same year, he began showing his couture collection in the city, creating a buzz among the fashion elite.

sur la terre going global

It wasn’t until 2002, however, that Saab finally achieved his star status when Halle Berry wore an Elie Saab gown to the Oscars and won best actress award. Saab’s designs have since become a favorite amongst other A-list celebrities including Christina Aguilera, Beyoncé, Catherine Zeta-Jones, Elizabeth Hurley, Marcia Cross, Emmanuelle Béart, and Teri Hatcher. He is also the couturier of royals such as the stylish Queen Rania of Jordan.

Saab’s final breakthrough came in July of 2003 when he showed his Haute Couture collection in Paris as an officially invited member of the prestigious Chambre Syndicale. The response from the press and retailers was overwhelming and two years later, in October of 2005, Saab launched his expanded ready-to-wear collection on the Paris runway - a place he now calls home.

Elie Saab’s business continues to expand. In 2005, he opened his first boutique and moved his headquarters to the heart of downtown Beirut.

The five floor, ultra-modern building houses his Atelier, Couture salon, Accessory and Ready-to-Wear collections. A multi-level boutique, also in Paris, opened in March 2007 at 1, Rond Point des Champs-Elysées, where the existing historical building is the base for the sophisticated modernist aesthetic of the new Elie Saab design. The company also plans to increase their worldwide retail presence with additional store openings in New York and London.

Elie Saab, a family oriented man, now resides in Paris and Beirut. He is the father of three boys and husband to his wife Claudine.

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sur la terre shining stars section

Shining Stars Photography: Roger Moukarzel Production: Minime Stylist: Bibi Assaad Hair: Samir Daw Make-up: May Kassis A big thank you to our shining stars: Alexandre, Nadim, Perla and Naya Accessories supplied by: MILORD, Chucry Assly Road, ABC Mall, Ashrafieh and ABC Mall, DbayĂŠ, Lebanon VIATEK, Elias Sarkis Avenue, Ashrafieh, Lebanon Vision (for the eye glasses), Aramta Center, Antelias and St Jean center, Broumana, Lebanon The Mac Shop Beirut, ABC Mall, Ashrafieh and Freeway Center, Sin EL Fil, Lebanon

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sur la terre shining section stars

Cigar humidor GENTILI Laptop MAC BOOK Tie bar MILORD Wallet MONTBLANC Key chain MONTBLANC Eye glasses SIMPSONS Key chain MONTBLANC Mobile phone NOKIA COMMUNICATOR

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Watch EMPORIO ARMANI Tie LANVIN Mobile phone I PHONE PSP SONY

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sur la terre shining section stars

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Tie LANVIN Watch BURBERRY Pink handbag LE TANNEUR Red briefcase LE TANNEUR Black briefcase LE TANNEUR Brown briefcase CEPI PELLETTERIE

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sur la terre shining section stars

Watch CARTIER Laptop Mac book air Eye glasses Simpsons 4gb walkman Video MP3 Player SONY

sur la terre beauty

Empire of colours Production: Sandra Jeannin Photography: Ian Abela @ Visionairs In Art www.ianabela.com Model: Karya @ Mademoiselle Paris Make-up: Sandra Jeannin @ Powder & Shine

Eclat de teint BY TERRY n°3 mauve de nuit Ultra-smoothing full coverage n°2 BY TERRY Loose powder SHISEIDO, pink rose n°1 Blush: DIOR, pink copper n°739 5 colour harmony for eyes n°4 and n°5 YSL Mascara blackstar BY TERRY n°3 Blue denim Crayon khôl, BY TERRY blackstar n°1 Lipstick n°10 provocative pink YSL

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sur la terre section beauty

This page: DIOR Leather couture for the eyes

Facing page: YSL 5 colour harmony for eyes n°5 Everlong mascara, lengthening mascara n°6 Eyeliner moiré n°9 Long-lasting nail lacquer n°35 tuxedo grey and n°36 rich coffee Pure lipstick n°140 purple velvet Silky-sensual-radiant lipstick n°18 red tabou Golden gloss, shimmering lip gloss n°15 CHANEL Quadra eye shadow n°93 Exceptionnel de Chanel, intense volume and curl mascara n°30 Nail colour golden fiction

DIOR Matte and shiny duo eyeshadow n°695 Long-wearing nail lacquer n°827 red ebony Eyeliner pencil with blending tip n°363 iridescent khaki Rouge Dior, replenishing lip color n°874 fantastic plum and n°423 western beige Rouge Dior, creamy lip gloss n°735 and n°875

BY TERRY Ultra-correcting liquid fondation, natural beige Highlighting concealer brush Mascara blackstar, ultra-volume & maxi-length Blush velouté, velvet cream blush n°1 Rouge opulent, lip gloss n°43 et n°9 SHISEIDO Loose powder n°1 Silky eye shadow quad n°Q11 Distinguish mascara Accentuating color stick multi-use

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sur la terre fashion

Walking on the wild side Stylist: Fiona Fletcher Stylist assistant: Louise Hall-Strutt Photography: Ian Abela @ Visionairs In Art www.ianabela.com Photographic assistants: Dave Barton Make-up: Adele Palmer using Giorgio Armani Hair: Akio Nishiyama Manicure: Katie Fine using Essie Models: Ty @ Independent Models London, Kersti @ Zone Models London Production: Fiona Fletcher @ www.fletchersmanagement.com Location: With thanks to Browns Restaurant Butlers Wharf - www.browns-restaurant.com

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Kersti Leather hand bag TANNER KROLLE Silver ring ISABELLE TASSEFF-ELENKOFF Winter white cashmere Belle coat DAKS Dark green patterned wool tights CHARNOS Pink and green ruffle neck dress JAEGER LONDON Pink perspex diamond shaped earrings ISABELLE TASSEFF-ELENKOFF Large disc black multi crystal ring REGLISSE Tan luggage leather high heeled lace up brogues RUPERT SANDERSON

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sur la terre fashion

Ty Grey and brown scarf JAEGER Purple frame vintage looking sunglasses CUTLER AND GROSS Purple roll neck jumper LAB PAL ZILERI Purple corduroy jacket DAKS Dark blue jeans JAEGER LONDON Burgundy and black leather brogues FRATELLI ROSSETTI Wooden heart brooch ISABELLE TASSEFF-ELENKOFF Silver Turtle ring REGLISSE Watch with rose gold dial LOCMAN

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Kersti Black cashmere roll neck jumper CELINE Charcoal grey multi tier flower shape mini skirt CELINE Dark grey drawstring front gathered coat CELINE Dark red coloured tights CHARNOS High soft grey leather wedge ankle boots CELINE Black large round bead necklace JAEGER

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sur la terre fashion

Kersti Charcoal grey, orange velvet and wool jersey dress PAULA KA Charcoal grey wool dress with gold buttons (worn as a coat) PAULA KA Forest green coloured tights CHARNOS Grey / brown patent and suede high heeled sandals PAULA KA

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Ty Ink navy jeans PAL ZILERI Black brogues with snakeskin detail FRATELLI ROSSETTI Grey tweed with charcoal grey wool zipper jersey front attached with hood PAL ZILERI Silver necklace MONTBLANC Black rubber strapped rose gold watch LOCMAN Green, blue and yellow T rings (worn together) ISABELLE TASSEFF-ELENKOFF

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Kersti Grey and black jacquard dress JAEGER LONDON Necklace - White multi-shape diamond necklace - 92.57K GRAFF DIAMONDS Ring - white emerald cut diamond ring with trillion cut diamond shoulders - 52.68K GRAFF DIAMONDS

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sur la terre in vogue

In Vogue at to look Where to shop and wh trends in ive lus for – the latest exc ilable the fashion world, ava to you locally

ZILLI The leading French brand for luxury menswear, ZILLI has a global presence with a unique style. The quality and attention to detail in its collections have earned ZILLI the recognition and loyalty of some of the most demanding customers for over 35 years and its Autumn / Winter 2008 Collection only enforces its reputation. From outerwear to cufflinks and suits, the ZILLI style is both distinctive and universal, and a personal statement from men who choose to wear it.

Dior in Qatar

For the first time in Qatar, the new Dior boutique recently opened its doors in the luxury wing of the Villagio Mall. The latest collection of accessories are exhibited in sleek modern glass displays, with leather goods and Dior’s infamous bags, from the iconic Lady Dior bag to My Dior’s, as well as the latest creation Karenina Dior bag, are all available. An exclusive area especially created for Dior watches and phone displays leads the eye through to the Shoe Salon, which includes collections from Miss Dior to Dior 61, and the spectacular Ready to Wear room, where wonderful gowns from around the world surround you, including the evening dresses that make Dior and its creator, John Galliano, so unique. Baby Dior is also available, along with a wide range of ready-towear items and accessories.

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sur la terre in vogue

Lucky Brand Jeans Rooted in rock n’ roll with a signature sense of humour, Lucky Brand Jeans stands for independent thinking, individual style and a feeling as authentic as love. Friends since youth, creators Gene Montesano and Barry Perlman shipped the first order of Lucky Brand Jeans in 1990, and have been renowned for their great-fitting, vintage-inspired jeans ever since. Celebrating in style recently for the one year anniversary of opening in Doha, Qatar, Lucky Brand held a fashion show at Villagio Mall, where their popular store is located.

Noblesse Oblige Noblesse Oblige, based in Royal Plaza in Doha, Qatar, is fast becoming the hottest store in town for discerning local women who want a designer version of their traditional abaya.

‘Noblesse Oblige’ is a french phrase that literally translates to ‘Nobility Obliges’, meaning it is a nobility’s obligation to maintain this cultural prerequisite, and this is the philosophy that the boutique has adopted for their conceptional inspiration for a designer alternative.

The innovative team of talented designers at Noblesse Oblige found an exciting new way of mixing traditional prerequisites with luxury designer quality and cut, and from there Noblesse Oblige was born. From local ladies having to hide their designer clothing underneath shapeless coverings, they are now flaunting their designer versions of abayas around town. The abaya, which is worn in many Arab countries and around the world, has seen a swift metamorphosis over

the last several years in both shape, style and functionality. No longer as structureless as it once was, through subtle but noticeable changes and tailoured details such as splashes of colour, embroidery or bead work, the newly adorned shape cuts quite a swath in today’s society. By adding a more flattering form, cut, quality and colour, and modeled on the latest designer runway fashions, Noblesse Oblige has helped the abaya evolve into a new luxury accessory or designer outfit.

Not only does Noblesse Oblige cater to the abaya wearing woman of high taste, but it also offers the ‘Voyage Line’, a line of clothing specially dedicated to the modest Islamic lifestyle, keeping conservatism in mind but also adding every aspect of runway trends and quality. Designed for women who do not wear the abaya but are more traditional in dressing, the collection compromises jackets and tops that ooze designer quality and appeal.

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Passport The new autumn range from Passport is here.

Available at The Mall, Doha, the new collection offers a range of luxurious, ready to wear tops, dresses, trousers and skirts for women who want attention to and affection for detail. The driving force behind the new collection, which helped launch Passport from a knitwear expert to a womens wear brand, is emotion and joie de vivre, and expresses the desire of women to show how much their clothing means and how it makes them feel.

Tanagra Tanagra is the distinctive signature of refinement, a boutique that brings the spirit of luxury to modern life by presenting the most prestigious lifestyle brands. Comprehensive in its collection yet discerning in its taste, Tanagra carefully composes an exclusive selection of the finest accessories, gifts and “Art de Vivre” collections. From crystal to porcelain, silverware to jewellery, Tanagra always promises its customers the best in each category. Tanagra boutiques are a regional network already present in Kuwait, the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia and Qatar. They accentuate a unique concept of two universes; the “Pour Soi” section, which is dedicated to the individual and features a diverse collection including brands such as S.T. Dupont, Tumi, Beavaldes and Edidi evening bags, as well as breathtaking jewellery brands such as Swarovski, Dinh Van and Georg Jensen; and the “Chez Soi” section, which is devoted to the home and displays beautiful decorative and functional pieces from brands

such as Christofle, Daum, Baccarat, Bernardaud, Rosenthal-Versace, Lladro and Jay Strongwater, amongst others. Synonymous with timeless beauty and special moments, and hallmarked by exquisite craftsmanship and unbridled

creativity, Tanagra appeals to those who have an affinity towards beautiful and distinctive items, making it a memorable shopping experience and the definitive destination for luxury lifestyle products.

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< Sketch, East Bar in London >

The first thing that hits you is his delighted child’s smile, as if facing a plethora of new toys. An incomparable asset to still have at 34 what you have been searching for all your life. But make no mistake: underneath his outward signs of youthfulness, Noé Duchaufour-Lawrance is full of amplitude, certainties, rigour and humility which he has applied to major interior design and architectural projects.

Text: Yamina Benaï Photography: All rights reserved

>>> A Polytechnic graduate-turned-sculptor for a father, an artistic, drawing teacher mother.

Difficult for the native of Mende, in France, to escape the creative DNA of such a family mould. But after the death of his father when he was just eighteen months old, the decision was taken to leave the house where they were living, near a hippy community. Mother and son head for Paris, then Brittany. Morlaix Bay opened up all its wide, unpredictable splendour to him.

Driftwood polished by salt and sea on the

beaches, next to fishing nets, cuttlefish bones and sea urchin shells tangled up with bunches of seaweed. These foreshores, streaking the sand with strange living undulations, were a source of captivating discoveries for the child. Shapes, textures, smells - the sea and its depths provided him with lasting inspiration.

Accompanied by his step-father, an Englishman from South London, he strides along the Brittany coasts where he has lived regularly ever since.

The constant affection of this “new father” in

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< TAD, Concept Store in Milan >

no way blurs the powerful memory of his “real father”. Since he was 12 or 13 Noé DuchaufourLawrance has constantly extended the history of his father through what he wanted to do.

A classic approach, undoubtedly, but led here with an essential, constant will. Thus, his first work around sculpture on metal via the applied arts college Ecole supérieure des Arts appliqués Olivier-de-Serres led him towards a meeting of minds with his father, to carve a niche for himself. This long saturation has encouraged him to extend the gesture, to make it his own.

“This work reflected my need for continuity, for history, it was a very personal path. I took it for myself. In one way I have buried my father for a second time”, he states today.

He thus visited the Milan Furniture Fair at the age of 22, armed simply with nerve and his sketchbook which, at the time, contained virtually nothing but sculptures. He did not hesitate to open his book in front of the most prestigious Italian publishers. Contacts are forged, turning years later into outstanding collaborations. He rounded out his education in the Furniture Section of the decorative arts

< The Senderens in Paris >

college, the Ecole national supérieure des Arts décoratifs. Thibault Desombre and Jean-Marie Massaud make enthusiastic contributions.

With his diplomas in his pocket, he sounded out the cinema with film sets, advertising spots and clips. He spent a year in Morocco spurred by a love and desire to explore new things. Good choice. This country was his starting point, his entry route into the profession. He met an architect who involves him in a London project.

< The mythical café Sénéquier in St-Tropez >

Three years of complex work and a similar number to learn about human relationships, the “ups and downs” chapter. In 2002, a year before the creation of his Paris agency Néonata, the Sketch restaurant opened in the British capital under the auspices of its charismatic, Franco-Algerian boss, Mourad Mazouz. Noé Duchaufour-Lawrance is responsible for the interior design and architecture (West Bar Gallery, East Bar, Eggs Toilets), bringing an

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< Desk “Manta” for Ceccotti >

< Bed “Buonanotte Valentina” for Ceccotti >

avalanche of Cross-Channel praise.

Alain Senderens decided to off-load his three Michelin stars, which have given him many years of long and loyal service. Exit “Lucas Carton”, therefore, in place de la Madeleine, the place will revert to the name of the chef.

The Duchaufour-Lawrance box had to be ticked to move from the ghost of a gastronomic institution opened in the 18th century to the “Senderens” of today. Majorelle woodwork, classified decor - this was not easy. But the result is clear: modern, refined and welcoming.

A few creations further down the line (TAD Concept Store in Milan, Déli-cieux restaurant in Printemps de la Maison in Paris, Manta furniture collection for Ceccotti, Maya Bar in Monaco, Air France Business Lounge in Paris), and the trumpets of fame have now sounded many times, but purity of view and modesty remain invariable. Noé prefers to continue on his way rather than to contemplate his awards or get drunk on Parisian cocktails. “I rarely go to evening receptions. I have two little girls and a great deal of work.” So here’s someone who prefers to be on his sites or at his workbench

than at a party. “I need the energy from the city but also the scale of nature, calm and wisdom.

I realise that we do too many things in a hurry, I need fullness.” He has just presented his perfume flask One Million for Paco Rabanne, is fine tuning his exhibition at the Galerie Pierre Bergé in Brussels, exclusive items of furniture launched in December 2008, is continuing with a large scale hotel project in Marrakesh and possibly another one in Switzerland. He is developing a design of furniture for champagne tasting at a large producer, reviewing several anonymous classics of international furniture for an American publisher, planning a collection for the 2009 Milan Furniture Fair, expanding his approach to Air France Business Lounges and Agencies worldwide - with the singlemindedness of true craftsmen, he is weaving his universe. Aerial and powerful, in direct link with natural forms. As in the sculptural collection “Manta” created for Ceccotti, a lyrical image of the sophisticated and moving elegance of the singular fish.

As time goes on, Noé Duchaufour-Lawrance is refining his framework and opting for

< Noé Duchaufour-Lawrance >

minimalism. He is maintaining his expression but is ridding himself of devices. What does he wish for principally in the future? “Go to the basics, focus my attention on very precise things” is his reply. “Do less, do better. Introduce relevance into what I do. Re-assess the notion of doing something well. Combine the pleasure of living and the pleasure of doing: enter into a global nature of things, whereby I can take refuge in a workshop in Baie de Somme or an earthen house in Morocco to take the time not to be pressed to produce. That may seem anachronistic given my age, or out of step with the times, but I need this time. Multiplication doesn’t interest me. If I do something, I want to do it in the best way possible. If I have nothing to say, I remain silent. What interests me is to be happy and proud of what I do.”

This is the man who, in these uncertain times, does not hesitate to refuse - most politely (highly publicised) projects which provide him with nothing new under the creative heaven, merely cash - without doubt this man has courage. A man of the future.

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TEXT: Anne & Judikael Hirel PHOTOGRAPHY: All rights reserved

Aesthetic ethics Beauty, functionalities, new technologies… Male or female, kitchen or bathroom, design is all over your interior, not just in the sitting room. >>> How could we possibly do without beauty? It’s not a luxury, it’s a necessity. Always, everywhere, throughout the day. And of course first and foremost in the home, because it’s home. Did you say home automation, high tech? Better talk about aesthetics as well, as why the devil should the function not be beautiful? It invites itself into every room in our home, concealing itself and curling up to become even more essential. For you, for him, for her, the greatest names in domestic appliances merge utility, design and new technologies and convert our interiors into moments of happiness, simple and elegant.

The ultimate kitchen Whatever you might say, the kitchen is now masculine plural. For the best way to bring not just one man but all his friends as well into the kitchen is without question to tell them that this new Poggenpohl creation is the brainchild of the legendary Porsche Design studio. An ultra-modern look, black lacquered finish for total elegance. On the menu: versatility and new technologies - aluminium units and doors edged in black oak or floating wood without handles, granite elements, work surfaces in glossy-finish glass and above all the best high tech harmoniously built in: intuitive electronic controls, LCD screen with built-in DVD player set into an aluminium structure with titanium finish protected by a glass slab, sound system and of course a full range of Miele equipment built into this superb contemporary, virile kitchen.

Poggenpohl Porsche Design P7340, to order.

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Luxury bath Which year are you in? Which country? Everywhere and nowhere, today and tomorrow both at once, this bathroom thought up by Marc Sadler makes us lose our bearings totally. The high-tech tub is made of polyester and polyurethane, so that the walls are infused with the heat of the water and weld themselves to the shape of your body.

Ideal Standard, Soft Bath

Wall-mounted home automation How can you create an ambience to suit the time of day and rooms in your home? By building in intelligent, designer switches incorporating directly various life scenarios - simply press to activate.

Bticino, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Axoluteâ&#x20AC;?

Intimate variations This variable switch in nine possible colours is sold with a remote control to turn the light on and off gently and gradually.

LEDs display the lighting level and energy consumption - ecology and aesthetics halfway house.

Lutron Rania

Kubrick cube One of the rising stars in international design, Ora Ito, has experimented with a stylistic exercise to reinvent the kitchen. The result: a white cube like a Kubrick film decor contrasts with and underlines the black or black and silver finish of the new collection of domestic appliances from Gorenje: refrigerator, hood, built-in oven, hobs, etc.

Gorenje, Ora Ito Collection

Cook in beauty This most modern of steam ovens with its anthracite finish is not satisfied with thinking big by incorporating its electronic elements in its door. It also offers a backlit LCD screen, two zinc buttons and six touchsensitive buttons for intuitive use. To this is added, to cook in beauty, nine cooking modes and electronic temperature adjustment.

Gaggeneau, anthracite steam oven

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Extra widths Plan in advance with this impressive, not to say imposing, American refrigerator, stateofthe-art in health and energy consumption standards, yet with the most attractive brushed aluminium finish to hold court near the central island in your designer kitchen.

Liebherr, Master side by side

Digital mirror Also from Ideal Standard, design and digital form a solid alliance in this Simply U bathroom range, with a choice of four unit lines and 25 different basins. To be admired and for selfadmiration in this wide, sombre digital mirror.

Ideal Standard, Simply U, Miroir digital

Lanky The first step in home automation is owning a universal remote control that is both beautiful and capable of controlling all the digital paraphernalia in your designer interior with one finger.

Sombre, spare and lanky, this one is inspired by the MP3 player ergonomics to replace dozens of incomprehensible buttons with a single button giving access to a drop-down menu.

Ruwido, Vexo

Futurist What will tomorrow bring? What functions?

What design? What about environmental protection? This surprising prototype from Electrolux is hoping to answer all these questions. Almost living textiles covered with nano-particles, more dirt resistant, will be cleaned by ultraviolet rays and oxygen free radicals penetrating the tissues to eliminate bacteria and viruses. Or how to combine design, ecology and new technologies.

Electrolux Kaionwave

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Long term The special 92-litre compartment of this stainless steel finish refrigerator stabilises the temperature close to zero, with chiller and humid areas that keep food fresh three times longer. Electronic probes control and adjust the temperature constantly to keep food fresh and tasty as long as possible, whilst the LCD touchsensitive screen in the door displays the inside temperature. Simply touch with the finger to move into holiday mode. Boffi, Minikitchen in Corian, price on request.

Siemens, Vitafresh

Colour option As soon as your guests move into the kitchen to dine unexpectedly whilst appreciating the beauty and high technology of your choice of domestic appliances, your refrigerator has a duty to blend with the surrounding decoration.

No question of stickers or glam and glitter all over the doors, opt for colour, choosing one of the many shades on offer from Smeg.

Smeg, FAB28RG, 1â&#x20AC;&#x2122;400 â&#x201A;Ź

Design curves Add a touch of design and beauty to your hightech range with this designer universal remote control with brushed aluminium finish and amazing rounded curves, with a touch-sensitive LCD screen and backlit background.

Bang & Olufsen Beo5

All steam Farewell to the ironing? Perhaps with this steam washing machine, capable of destroying bacteria in laundry whilst consuming less water and electricity than a conventional model. Its special programme takes the creases out of most of your laundry without ironing in about twenty minutes.

LG, Prime Vapeur

Swiss understatement As a discreet but valorous knight in the battle against dirtiness, this dishwasher offers you the best performance with its Swiss understatement. This machine combines an intuitive and optimal utilization with the most silent and quick functioning. This appliance seduces thanks to its automatic programs that adapt the time and consumption according to the degree of dirt on your dishes. Its baskets allow a maximal capacity and the available programs are so sophisticated that they even include a program fondue/raclette for the specific needs of Swiss cooking.

V-Zug, Dishwasher Adora SL

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Domino dancing Because the kitchen remains the right and wise middle way between art and pleasure, the aesthetes from De Dietrich have chosen to transform your recipes into a game with elegant dominos. Following the different mixtures and types of cooking (grill, induction, gas, wok, plancha..) itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s up to you to add the domino you wish to create new combinations and give birth to new irresistible and luxurious tastes.

De Dietrich, Domino Collection

No limit Total control, ultimate aesthetics and a sympathetically unrealistic price: the Danes from Danoise Lantic Systems have achieved this triple exploit with this universal remote control manufactured entirely in gold - the most expensive in the world.

Lantic Systems, Lantic Gold

Shape and function What is an oven used for? Cooking, of course, but not just that these days. It also has to be designer, elegant, modern, blend harmoniously with the style of your kitchen, in short become a design icon in its own right, like this Miele built-in model.

Miele, Multifunction oven

Sixth sense Sorry, you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have the sixth sense - that of culinary art - your oven does: once the food is placed in the oven, probes and sensors take over setting the cooking time and the amount of steam to be injected. Whilst you get on with the other essential tasks in your contemporary daily routine.

Whirlpool, 6th-sense oven

Great Class A ritual never to be missed before starting out on an over-vitamined urban day: appreciating the aromas of your first coffee of the day. A calm coffee, prepared by a built-in, totally automatic designer coffee machine. Superquick heating time, no interruption between the milk frothing and the coffee percolating. Enjoy!

Gaggenau, CM200

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Eco-logical This ecological built-in kitchen concept is inspired by natural cycles to optimise its energy consumption. Water, heat, currentâ&#x20AC;Ś it consumes half as much energy as our current kitchens thanks to a few technological wizardries: the refrigerator compressor heats the water, its drawer prevents the cold air from escaping when you open the door and the hood detects cooking fumes and steam to provide suction power actually required.

Whirlpool, Green kitchen

Advance planning When children of one family chum up with those of another, when cousins get together to play happy families, better think big and get in a few stores to survive and resist the attacks from young and not-so-young appetites. Beyond a record capacity of 555 litres, this two-door refrigerator also incorporates a LED control screen to display and control the temperature in each of its compartments, the Total No Frost system which keeps the temperature stable and a technology christened Plasmacluster which slows down the development of all bacteria.

Sharp refrigerator, SJ PT 690 RS

Tricolour What a strange question, and yetâ&#x20AC;Ś would you prefer your next combi fridge in black, red or white? Although we continue subconsciously to think of white for the culinary arts, colour has made the most of the Trojan horse of small appliances to take up annual residence near your work surface.

Bosch, Glassline

sur la terre i feel like... section

>>> The word “chocolate” comes from the Aztecs of Mexico, and is derived from the Nahuatl word ‘xocolatl’ which is a combination of the words ‘xocolli’, meaning “bitter”, and ‘atl’, which is “water”.

•Chocolate comprises a number of raw and processed foods that are produced from the seed of the tropical cacao tree.

•Unsweetened chocolate is pure chocolate liquor, also known as bitter or baking chocolate.

•Pure, unsweetened chocolate contains primarily cocoa solids and cocoa butter in varying proportions.

•An aphrodisiac effect is yet unproven although romantic lore commonly identifies chocolate as such.

•Chocolate contains alkaloids such as theobromine and phenethylamine, which have physiological effects on the body.

•The first chocolate house opened in London in 1657.

•Scientists claim that chocolate, eaten in moderation, can lower blood pressure.

•Dark chocolate has recently been promoted for its health benefits, including a substantial amount of antioxidants that reduce the formation of free radicals.

•Chocolate has become one of the most popular flavors in the world.

•Chocolate is also used in cold and hot beverages, to produce chocolate milk and hot chocolate.

•Chocolate has been used as a drink for nearly all of its history, and first started out as a beverage, not the chocolate we know it as today.

•Alongside milk chocolate, white chocolate and dark chocolate are also common chocolate varieties.

•The Aztecs associated chocolate with Xochiquetzal, the goddess of fertility. Chocolate is also associated with the Maya god of fertility.

•A study reported by the BBC indicated that melting chocolate in one’s mouth produced an increase in brain activity and heart rate that was more intense than that associated with passionate kissing, and also lasted four times as long after the activity had ended.

•Gifts of chocolate molded into different shapes have become traditional on certain holidays: chocolate bunnies and eggs are popular on Easter, chocolate coins on Hanukkah, Santa Claus and other holiday symbols on Christmas, and hearts on Valentine’s Day. •According to Mars-funded researchers at Harvard, the University of California, and European universities, cocoa-based prescription drugs could potentially help treat diabetes, dementia and other diseases.

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The Royal Villa

at Sharq Village & Spa The Sharq Village & Spa, already known for its sumptuous restaurants, luxurious amenities and world-renowned Six Senses Spa, now have yet another first - the introduction of the Royal Villa. Currently the most expensive and exclusive in the Middle East, the Beit Al Shyoukh, which translates to House of Royalty, promises an experience that is simultaneously authentic and contemporary while blending modern luxury with traditional architecture and design elements. >>> Ornately modelled after a sheikh’s palace, the 2099 square meter Royal Villa is divided into two distinct wings. Guest accommodation includes the royal suite, guest suite, a pair of two-bedroom suites and a pair of king suites, along with majlis seating areas, study and dining room. The inner majlis or sitting room, and private dining room of the Royal Villa are separated by double wooden sliding doors which allow for intimate seating, groupings and moments of reflection amid tranquil surroundings. An elegantly appointed study with majestic hand carved wooden desk inlaid with marble with outdoor patio complements the Qatari themed royal villa, while offering state-ofthe-art technology that is integrated into the décor of the space.

The Royal Suite is a unique palatial experience in itself. The imperial four-poster, canopied bed sitting atop a polished marble platform and

hand-woven Arabian carpets boast bed linens that are amongst the finest in the world, with 1050- thread count sheets by the Italian house of Frette. The bath is tiled by prized Brazilian blue marble, the Jacuzzi is studded with indigo hued mosaic tiles veined with 18 karat gold and the bath amenities, from Acqua di Parma with lotions including 23 karat golf leaf by Linden Leaves, offer the highest indulgence. The luxurious annex area is adjacent to the accommodation wing of the Royal Villa, and is connected via an overhead walkway. This separate building reveals a secret sanctuary of indulgence and well being for the exclusive use of guests of the Royal Villa. A two-storey high cascading waterfall and meandering corridors lead to a strikingly designed indoor temperature controlled swimming pool and Jacuzzi, an exercise gymnasium with floor to ceiling windows overlooking the turquoise waters of the Arabian Gulf, multipurpose bar area and a fully equipped professional chef’s kitchen.

Service offerings include Rolls Royce transfers for the head of the villa, a chauffeur driven BMW on standby, personal butlers including one specifically for the female guests, five culinary and beverage presentations with frequent replenishment of fruit and beverage and an open bar of house pours, as well as a personal chef and trainer. Upon sunset, the shisha or water pipe, with a selection of over 25 tobacco varietals, Arabic sweets, dates and nut platter will be available at the exterior majlis, a beautiful open area which overlooks the sea.

For more information or reservations, please visit www.sharqvillage. com / www.ritzcarlton.com or call +974 425 6666.

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Privatdrive Supercar Show The world’s top luxury and super cars will be showcased at the occasion of the launch of the most glamorous project in the Middle East - The Pearl Qatar - during the Privatdrive Supercar Show held through the weekend, Friday 21st and Saturday 22nd November 2008. >>> The Privatdrive Supercar Show is the leading event for exclusive vehicles and the luxury automotive market. An instant success attracting the crème de la crème of society including VIPs, prominent locals and members of the Royal families of the Middle East, this event has already been held in several countries around the region and is now coming to Qatar.

Friday 21st November will be a special, by invitation only VIP event, and includes the first glimpse of the exhibition itself - the world’s most luxurious vehicles. The official opening of the 2008 Privatdrive Supercar Show in the presence of members of the Royal Family, prominent locals, VIPs and the media will also be held on Friday evening. The inaugural party will be celebrated with abundant entertainment, including live music, a fashion show and many other surprises for those in attendance.

Saturday 22nd November is the cumulation of the event and provides free entrance to the exhibition of the world’s most luxurious vehicles to the public. A VIP area will be available, as well as an F1 experience, a fashion show, a Golf Pro simulator tournament, lounge music and many other surprises.

Enjoy a distinctive business-to-business and networking atmosphere at the Gulf’s leading supercar-only show, which will also include exclusive luxury automotive brands and supercar constructors that are not yet represented in the country.

The event will be covered by TV, radio and press media, not only locally but around the world, including a worldwide broadcast of the event

by Privatdrive’s partner, LUXE TV. www.Privatdrive.com

© Aston Martin

© Rolls Royce

© Lamborghini

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“In the Gulf region, VIPs want only the best, the top of range and this event will provide a sample of what is to be expected with Privatdrive”, said Alexis Lallement-Steiner, Founder and Owner of Privatdrive Club. © Koenigsegg

© Bugatti

© Porsche

© SLR MacLaren

© Ferrari F430 Scuderia

© Gumpert

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Ligne Roset

Ligne Roset has grown from a small business making bentwood walking sticks to a multinational contemporary furnishings company. Founded

by Antoine Roset in 1860 in Montagnieu, France, they have kept their headquarters in France - in Briord, to be exact - and now total more than 200 exclusive Ligne Roset stores and 1,000 retail distributors worldwide.

>>> Headed by great grandsons Pierre and Michel Roset, Ligne Roset furnishes the world with a line of sofas, sofa beds, armchairs, occasional tables, dining tables, dining chairs, cabinetry, beds, desks, hall units, lighting, rugs, vases, accessories, tabletop and textiles by an internationally acclaimed team of designers. World-recognized designers including Didier Gomez, Peter Maly and Pascal Mourgue have added their imprimaturs to the Ligne Roset line with pieces that have become legend. To this roster, Ligne Roset added a crew of young designers including Erwan and Ronan Bouroullec, Kristian Gavoille, Arik Levy and Sophie Larger who bring a playful, irreverent approach and fresh perspective to furnishings in materials as varied as glass, ceramic and plastic.

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Although Ligne Roset’s products and accessories are popular throughout Europe and are sold in stores worldwide, its availability on this side of the world remains limited. To this end Jaidah Furniture, one of Jaidah Group’s six business divisions, is planning to open a Ligne Roset showroom in Doha in October 2008, where the brand’s furniture and decorative accessories will be presented in an inviting, true-to-life environment to ensure customers’ expectations are exceeded. Jaidah Furniture has been Ligne Rosets’ sole partner and distributor in Qatar for almost 5 years already, and are very excited at the prospect of opening an official outlet for the well known brand.

Despite its exclusivity, the company’s accessories start as low as $60 and items can be used to fit a variety of decorating budgets. More expensive items such as custom cabinets can cost around $7,000 to $8,000, with couches averaging between $4,000 to $6,000, but as far as contemporary furniture goes, it’s very competitively priced. Some people will use this to furnish their entire house while others will use it to transform just one room.

Known for its collaborations with the foremost talents in contemporary design, Ligne Roset presents the consumer with a lifestyle choice, complementing its furniture collections with decorative accessories, lighting, rugs, textiles and occasional items. Matching its deeply-held belief in design with investment and technical innovation, the Roset Group is also distinguished from other manufacturers by its tradition of close collaboration with both established and emerging designers.

Creativity is a key value of the Ligne Roset brand: if a new product demands new materials or new production methods, the company will acquire them.

The Ligne Roset showroom will be opening up in Doha in October 2008 on Salwa Road, near the Fauchon boutique, and the range of luxurious products will be complemented by a specialized interior design aimed at covering various categories of both classic and modern furnishings: from sofas, fabrics and tables, through to lighting and home accessories, to name just a few.

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Salam Stores

Built on the promise of giving its customers a 360 degree shopping experience, Salam Stores are a regional retail icon that enjoys an enviable but well deserved reputation, not only for superior product quality, but also for keen attention to detail and exceptional customer service. >>> Salam Stores carries a portfolio of over 300 premium names in five distinct product categories – Jewellery, Perfumes & Cosmetics, Fashion, Home Accessories and Photography.

For denim devotees a specialty boutique has recently been unveiled in Salam Plaza. A spacious 350 square metre area has been transformed using trendy fixtures, accent lighting and a muted colour scheme. Going to great lengths to provide an eclectic selection of premium denim brands for both men and ladies, Salam Stores carries top names such as 7 For All Mankind, Citizens of Humanity, AG Jeans, True Religion and Rock & Republic amongst many others. With the promise to help you look your best, Salam’s ‘fit specialists’ will select the right pair for your body type and preference and give you tips on the latest fashion trends.

To top it all off, Salam Denim also carries a selection of shoes, handbags and accessories to make your jeans look even better!

Salam Stores is open 10am-10pm Saturday to Thursday and 3-10 pm on Fridays, and is located at The Mall and The Plaza, next to City Center.

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Cartier Celebrates Worldwide Charity Campaign Cartier has announced its charity initiative in Qatar for the third consecutive year and is expecting to raise large donations for the Qatar Orphans Foundation. Founded under the patronage of Her Highness Sheikha Mozah Bint Nasser Al-Missned, who is Chairman of the charity, the Foundation aims to take special care of orphans throughout various internal and external programs and activities, in order to achieve social solidarity and helping orphans become self-secured citizens contributing in leading their society forward. >>> In the aim of generating funds for various charitable and humanitarian organizations around the world, on Thursday June 19th 2008 Cartier celebrated all over the world with the launch of the new LOVE Charity campaign. This year, music has been chosen as the language to pass on this message of love and generosity, where 12 musicians including Oliver Dahan, Lou Reed, Thomas Dybdahl, Ryuichi Sakamoto, Hawksley Workman, Sol Seppy, Dan Black and the French actress and Oscar winner Marion Cotillard, brought together special compositions and tunes to voice the importance of this charity initiative.

“The past two successful LOVE Charity campaigns have raised significant funds which helped support various important causes in the region. We are very keen to continue our efforts for the third year and I am confident that we will once again generate more donations which will help benefit the society and increase awareness for these humanitarian and charitable organizations.” said Cartier Middle East Managing Director, Mr. Patrick Normand.

The LOVE Charity bracelet features 2 linked 18k yellow gold and 18k white gold mini LOVE bracelets, attached to a silk cord, available in the Cartier boutique in Qatar for a price of 3,900 QR, where 100% of the proceeds will be donated to the Qatar Orphans Foundation.

Cartier also supports The United Nations Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) in the UAE under the patronage of HRH Princess Haya Bint Al Hussein, Wife of HH Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of UAE, Ruler of Dubai; The Kuwait Association for the Care of Children in Hospital (KACCH) in Kuwait, governed by a Board of Trustees, whose President is Professor Hilal Al-Sayer; The Children and Mother’s Welfare Society in Bahrain, which was founded under the patronage of Sheikha Hind Bint Salman Al Khalifa; The Heart Beat Association in Lebanon; and The Ensan Orphans Organization in Saudia Arabia, which is a charitable organization for orphan’s welfare founded 8 years ago and headed by HRH Prince Salman Bin Abdulaziz, the Governor of Riyadh Region.

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sur la terre section out of the box

Ramadan Feasts

For sumptuous Iftar and Souhour delights this Ramadan, visit some of our favourite local tents and eateries.

Movenpick Tower and Suites

Mövenpick Tower and Suites are preparing a wide array of sumptuous hot and cold Arabic dishes and spreads for the Iftar Buffet, while a lavish à la carte Souhour is also available in In-room dining. The Animato Restaurant will be specially decorated for Ramadan and the comprehensive Iftar Buffet will be served at the price of QR 150 exclusive of 17% service charge per person, including a variety of Ramadan juices. Iftar Buffet will be served daily from sunset till 7:30pm and regular Dinner Buffet will be available from 8:00 pm till 11:00 pm.

The well-appointed banquet rooms are also available for corporate guests and families hosting Iftar get-togethers and a magnificent Iftar feast can be provided.

The Mövenpick Tower & Suites Doha will donate 5% of all proceeds from the Ramadan Iftar served to Dhreima Qatar Orphans Foundation. Take advantage of the special Ramadan stay promotion for just QR 650 per night inclusive of the following benefits: • Daily buffet breakfast or Sohour • VIP treatment on arrival • Complimentary Airport-Hotel-Airport transfers • Shuttle service to the shopping malls • Unlimited access to the swimming pool, jacuzzi and fitness facilities.

THE One

If you’re looking for somewhere different to celebrate Iftar with family and friends this year, head to THE One’s Doha Restaurant in its Landmark Mall Theatre for a scrumptious selection of home-made Arabic dishes. Enjoy a traditional buffet served to your table, when gourmet guests can indulge in an Iftar Buffet for two at QR 80, Super Iftar Buffet for two at QR 120, or tuck into a Family Feast for five (two adults and up to three children) from QR 250. Created by Marie-Eve Lafrenaye, Menu Development Chef for THE One, the menu features dates, mixed Arabic breads, hummus, fattoush, chicken biryani, vegetable korma, lamb saloona and many other delightful treats, such as THE One Umm Ali.

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Four Seasons Hotel

Image courtesy of the Four Seasons Hotel

A vision of reminiscent arabesque dĂŠcor, opulently adorned tables and cozy clandestine seating areas set the scene for the Ramadan tent this year in the Al Mirqab Grand Ballroom in the Four Seasons Hotel, Doha. While Brasserie on the Beach creates a scenic backdrop to break the fast during Iftar, enticing with its famous wood burning oven, live cooking stations and attractive food displays all set in elegant surroundings. The Grand Ballroom is transformed into a plush Arabian-style majlis during Sohour, where a prominent Arabic Middle Eastern Theme distinguishes the International Sohour buffet, complemented by a nightly carvery and a cosmopolitan array of salads, pastas and live cooking.

Thai, Chinese and Indonesian specialities are offered in an exquisite Far Eastern culinary buffet which features the irresistible Japanese creations, Sushi and Sashimi. In addition, a South Asian spread represents authentic cuisine of India and Pakistan. Endless traditional desserts, such as Kunafa with Ice cream and Umm Ali are available in addition to the more contemporary options like a chocolate fountain and fresh fruit pastries. For the finest Italian dining experience, Il Teatro continues to offer the freshest regional ingredients in a delectable menu every evening and for a more laid back night with friends, The Pool Grill presents light snacks, Shisha and a view of the moonlit sky over the sparkling water of the Gulf.

InterContinental Doha

Al Waha Ramadan tent returns for the fifth year, as the most established Ramadan tent in Doha.

This year the ambience will be enhanced even further by a new beach location for the tent, where the stunning Arab specialty buffet includes all the traditional hallmarks of the Ramadan season.

There are also live cooking stations serving up a variety of delicacies including Arabic sweets. This unrivalled tent provides both residents and visitors to Doha with the opportunity to savour the finest hospitality and best traditions of Arabia.

For those looking for somewhere to break their fast, sumptuous authentic Iftars are available in The CafĂŠ restaurant, and private Iftars can be booked in the tent for groups of 75 people and above.

Special room rates are available during the Holy Month of Ramadan, ideal for those who want to glide from the tent straight into bed. Whether for business or leisure, guests can be assured of excellent accommodation and service throughout their stay, and are invited to make the most of the Bay Clubâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s array of health and sporting facilities. Room rates start from QR 700 per room per night including breakfast.

Tax and service charge of 17% is not included. The offer is valid from 1st September to the last day of Ramadan, subject to availability. For reservations e-mail reservations@icdoha.com or call +974 484 4444. For more details about the hotel, log onto www.intercontinental.com.

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sur la terre section out of the box

Marriott Hotel

Buy the “Ramadan for Lunch” pre-paid dining pass for only QR 2,500 net and receive over QR 5,000 in value. This fantastic offer includes a lavish weekday lunch buffet and Friday brunch as well as soft drinks, local mineral water and after-dinner coffee or tea. This special package is available from the first to the last day of Ramadan and does not include the Eid Holidays.

Experience the finest hospitality and Arabian traditions in the Diwan Al Sultan, and indulge in a lavish Iftar buffet offering freshly prepared Arabic and Qatari specialties, carving stations and amazing desserts.

Celebrate Eid ul-Fitr in style and treat yourself, friends and family to the lavish gallery brunch, offering a plethora of culinary delights while enjoying the finest hospitality. Classic Brunch: QR 175 per person. For more information please e-mail: DineMarriottDoha@marriott.com or contact +974 4298404.

Mark the occasion of Eid with a relaxing escape! Enjoy the superb facilities and treat yourself to a rejuvenating break. This amazing offer includes deluxe accommodation, a lavish breakfast buffet at the Corniche Restaurant, 30 percent discount on a spa treatment of your choice and complimentary 3:00 PM late check-out. Single rates are available from 950 QAR, double room rates from 1,050 QAR. Rates are per room, per night. For more information please call +974 429 8502 to reserve your room or e-mail: dohmc.reservations@marriotthotels.com

Al Dana Club Ramadan

The Sohour Buffet is held each evening in Nimor from 9.30pm, where the concept of a ‘Food Souk’ will offer a wide array of traditional, regional and international dishes with a Live Station where selected items are made to order. The extensive Buffet offers something for the whole family, including a ‘Kiddies Buffet’. For Iftar and late night dining enjoy the Chef’s four course set menu in Al Hasbah, together with their popular a la Carte Menu. This Ramadan will be celebrated with a variety of choice Ramadan dishes served as individual portions and Al Hasbah will be open to group functions for both Iftar and Sohour.

You can also enjoy Ramadan at home with the Al Dana’s exclusive choice of festive menus and dedicated staff.

Millennium Hotel Doha

The ideal setting for Ramadan celebrations, whether corporate or personal, with state-of-the-art conference and banqueting space divided between the grand reception foyers and two luxurious ballrooms, it is perfect for receptions of up to 200 guests. Should your gathering be more private, each ballroom can be partitioned into a smaller area. A fine dining restaurant, Cosmo Restaurant has an atmosphere of sheer elegance for a lavish Iftar buffet at distinctive rates of QR 120 which includes coffee, tea, ramadan juices and a delectable mix of traditional arabic cuisine and a live cooking station. For group bookings, guests can enjoy Iftar set menus in the Simsima Ballroom starting from QR 100.

For information and reservations, call +974 424 7777 fax +974 434 1774, e-mail: reservations@millennium-doha.com

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Sharq Village & Spa

Ramadan evenings come to life under the dramatic setting of the Ramadan tent in Al Dasha ballroom. A lavish buffet is complemented by entertainers and musicians playing traditional Arabic melodies throughout the evening, while Shisha connoisseurs can look forward to savoring up to 25 different tobacco flavours. The tent offers the ultimate Ramadan experience, combining indulgence with elegance, and is open throughout Ramadan between Iftar until 2 a.m. Festivities are priced at QR 200, exclusive of shisha. Eid Brunch Al Liwan serves an extravagant brunch during the first three days of Eid. Priced at QR 250++ per person, the buffet includes the perennial favourite whole roast lamb Ouzi, regional and international cuisine and decadent desserts.

Explore the traditions and heritage of Qatari culture through a journey back in time with an overnight stay at Sharq Village and Spa. One night stay in a deluxe room priced from QR 900++ includes overnight accommodation and breakfast for two adults and a child at Al Liwan. Stay an additional night to enjoy a 60 minute massage, late check-out and delightful Eid amenities.

Sheraton Hotel

Sheraton Doha Resort & Convention Hotel Doha has prepared Ramadan specialties and activities this year in a number of its outlets and restaurants. As the sun sets, guests can enjoy an extensive Iftar buffet at the Al Hubara Restaurant, La Veranda Restaurant and others with an authentic ambiance bringing together all the flavors of true Arabic culture. Traditional drinks to break the fast include the refreshing fruit juice concoctions created by specialty chefs. This is followed by a vast selection of local favorites from Mezzeh, Fattah, to one of many main courses such as Chicken Mousakan, Dolmas, Tourly and Mackbous. For guests who would like a more intimate private atmosphere the hotel has created a special in-room dining menu for both Iftar and Sohour.

For those requiring a private gathering venue, Sheraton Doha provides an Iftar buffet and a special shisha for groups upon request in a classical oriental evening at Al Majlis hall, the multi-purpose hall accommodating up to 500 guests.

Special rates for Ramadan Sohour and Iftar starts from QR 110.00 net per person. For more details and information, e-mail: sheraton.doha@sheraton.com or call +974 485 4556

>>> Terms and conditions apply. All prices correct at time of press. Service charge may not be included. Contact the hotel directly for further information

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sur la terre chapters

Brida

Who Moved my Cheese? My Name is Red

by Spencer Johnson

by Orhan Pamuk

This is the spellbinding story of Brida, a young Irish girl and her quest for knowledge. She has long been interested in various aspects of magic, but is searching for something more. Her search leads her to people of great wisdom who begin to teach her about the world, while Brida pursues her course ever deeper into the mysteries of life, seeking to answer questions about who she is. She seeks her destiny as she struggles to find a balance between her relationships and her desire to become a witch. It is a tale of love, passion, mystery and spirituality, skillfully written by one of the world’s favourite novelists.

Who Moved My Cheese? is a motivational book

by Dr. Spencer Johnson. Created to help him deal with a difficult change in his life, with the help of two mice, two “little people”, and their hunt for cheese which helped him take his changing situation seriously and himself less seriously.

Two decades after the story was created, Who Moved My Cheese? was finally published in 1998 and soon became a #1 international bestseller, with one million hardcover copies in print within the first sixteen months and over ten million copies within the next two years. It is not the actual story of Who Moved My Cheese? but how you interpret it and apply it to your own situation that gives it its value.

A New York Times business bestseller since its release, Who Moved My Cheese? remained on the list for almost five years and has spent over two hundred weeks on Publishers Weekly’s hardcover nonfiction list.

My Name Is Red is a Turkish novel by Nobel laureate author Orhan Pamuk. The main characters in the novel are miniaturists in the Ottoman Empire, and the events revolve around the murder of one of the painters. The novel’s narrator changes in every chapter, while it seamlessly blends mystery, romance and philosophical puzzles, opening a window on the reign of Ottoman Sultan Murat III during nine snowy winter days in the Istanbul of 1591.

My Name is Red won the International IMPAC Dublin Literary Award in 2003, as well as the French Prix du Meilleur Livre Etranger and Italian Premio Grinzane Cavour awards in 2002.

by Paulo Coelho

sur la terre tunes

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Rockferry

by Duffy

Rockferry is the debut studio album by Welsh singer Duffy, first released on March 3, 2008.

The lovingly constructed album has already succeeded beyond expectations and despite some wonderful orchestral settings, it’s actually Duffy’s terrific voice that makes this so satisfying, setting the tone throughout, whether poignant and soothing or charismatic and brash.

Viva la Vida

by Coldplay

Viva la Vida or Death and All His Friends (also simply known as Viva la Vida) is the fourth studio album by English alternative rock band Coldplay.

Viva la Vida takes its name from a painting by 20th century Mexican artist Frida Kahlo, and translates as “Alive[is] The Life” or “Live Life” in Spanish, although the intended meaning has been debated. It was released on 12 June 2008 in the United Kingdom and on 17 June 2008 in North America, and the album has, to date, been the number-one-selling album in 36 countries

around the world. In May 2008, Coldplay released two successful singles from the record: “Violet Hill” and “Viva la Vida”, the latter becoming the band’s first song to reach number one in the United States and the United Kingdom.

The band stated that they will release another album in late 2009, mostly comprising songs that were not included on Viva la Vida, which has become the most paid-for downloaded album of all time.

The Caramel Soundtrack Caramel is a deliciously indulgent and intimate account of five women working together in a beauty parlour, a colourful and sensual microcosm of the city where several generations come into contact, talk and confide in each other. The soulful backdrop to this story of everyday life, the soundtrack to Caramel is at once uplifting, determined and understanding of the lives of these women.

On its first day of release in the UK the album sold 60,000 copies, outselling the rest of the top 10 combined and setting it on course to become one of the fastest selling debuts ever.

It sold 180,000 copies in the UK alone in its first week, and consequently spent four weeks at the top spot. Since the album’s release, it has not left the top 4 in the UK. The album has earned a nomination for the 2008 MOJO Awards in the category of Album of The Year. In addition, “Mercy” has been nominated for Song of the Year.

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sur la terre silver screen

Heroes

Hancock Directed by Peter Berg and starring Will Smith, Jason Bateman and Charlize Theron, Hancock tells the story of a vigilante superhero, John Hancock (Will Smith), from Los Angeles whose reckless actions routinely cost the city millions of dollars. For some unknown reason, Hancock is depressed and the public has had enough of him. One day he saves Ray Embrey (Jason Bateman), a Public Relations Executive who makes it his mission to change his superhero’s image and have the public cheering for him once again.

Heroes is an American science fiction serial drama television series which tells the stories of ordinary individuals who discover that they have superhuman abilities. It explores how they adapt to the changes these abilities bring and their roles in preventing catastrophes and saving humanity. Created by Tim Kring, the series critically acclaimed first season’s run of 23 episodes garnered an average of 14.3 million viewers in the United States, receiving the highest rating for any NBC drama premiere in five years. Since premiering on NBC on September 25, 2006, Heroes has amassed a number of awards and nominations such as the 2007 Primetime Emmy awards, where it was nominated in eight categories including Outstanding Drama Series; it won a People’s Choice Award in 2007 in the category of Best New Drama, and was named Program of the Year in 2007 by the Television Critics Association and Best International Program at the 2008 Bafta Awards. The series has also been nominated for an NAACP Image Award, a WGA Award and a Satellite Award. The second season is now available in stores.

La Vie en Rose / La Mome A beautifully captured and acted film, La Vie en Rose is the English release title of La Môme, a 2007 French film directed by Olivier Dahan about French singer Édith Piaf, starring Marion Cotillard. The English release title is the name of Piaf’s bestknown song. Her childhood upbringing, followed by bruising encounters with life, created a voice that touched the world with hits such as “La Vie en Rose,” “Milord” and “Non, Je Ne Regrette Rien.” The film won two Oscars, four BAFTAs, five Césars, three Czech Lions and a Golden Globe. For her performance as Piaf, Marion Cotillard became the first actor or actress to ever win an Academy Award for Best Actress (“Oscar”) for a performance entirely in French. This film also became the thirdhighest-grossing French-language film in the United States in the last two decades.

sur la terre online

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www.gotmilk.com Got Milk is a fun, animated and interactive website based on the many benefits of drinking milk, such as the prevention of cavities, assistance in muscle rebuilding and strengthening of bones, hair, skin and nails.

It also includes games and recipes, such as the Sweet Sweet Slumber Stimulator and the Luscious Loveliness Smoothie.

www.glimpse.com Find the latest brands ranging from the smallest boutiques to the largest department stores. From Prada bags to Jimmy Choo sandals and Ed Hardy clothing, Glimpse.com is one of the most stylish search engines online. Belonging to TheFind family of shopping search engines, see what Glimpse.com can find for you to keep you up to date with fashion in any season!

www.jeremylevine.com The water that flows from a typical household faucet often travels thousands of miles from its original source, scrubbed clean, chlorinated and fluoridated, before it falls into your glass. This is a staggering achievement, yet we hardly give it a second thought.

Jeremy Levinesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; built environment is plugged into a vast web of similar systems, and they see this as an opportunity for architectural intervention and technological exploration. Besides the natural ecosystem, their work explores the newly emerging digital ecosystem.

More and more experiences are becoming electronically mediated and algorithmically enhanced while everyone seems to hunger for the exact opposite, suggesting that the digital and natural worlds are in opposition. Jeremy Levine explores the ways in which these two worlds can be integrated.

sur la terre society section

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Qatari Diar Award Ceremony Night Souq Waqif

Qatari Diar Estate Investment Company and Qatar Tourism and Exhibition Authority announced the launching of Qatari Diar Art Symposium at an event held at Waqif Art Center from 20th to 30th of July, 2008.

Qatari Diar Art Symposium brought together 14 artists from all over the Arab world to work on the theme of Souq Waqif.

Top left to bottom right: The First Prize Winner, The Qatari Artist Wadah Al Sulaiti. Behind her are her winning artworks Omani Artist Anwar Sonya, and Egyptian artist Hayam Baky, the second prize winner Slam Kamil, Sudanese artist Qatari artist Abdul Rahman Al Muthawah (artist participants) Second Prize winning painting, by Egyptian artist Hayam Baky

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sur la terre society

Imperial Towers official launch ceremony

Real estate developer Durat Al Doha recently announced the official opening of bookings for its exclusive Imperial Towers project on Viva Bahriya, which is the second phase of The Pearl Qatar. Each of the five towers has its own design theme inspired by one of the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s continents, ensuring that each is distinctively different from the others.

The launch event, held at the Four Seasons, wowed a VIP audience by bringing the theme of the Imperial Towers to life.

Top left to bottom right: David Oweda - ASTECO, Khurshid Hassan Durat Al Doha, Christof Birkofer - Enpel & Volkers General ambience Khurshid Hassan Carole Nader - MC VIP guests during the launch dinner VIP guests during the ceremony Entertainment during the launch ceremony VIP guests looking at the Imperial Towers architectural model

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sur la terre section a day in the life...

‘A Day in the Life... of Amal

Mannai’

Where do you work and what is your job title?

I work as a Director for the Social Development Centre, a nongovernmental developmental organization that belongs to the Qatar Foundation for Education Science and Community Development.

What does your job involve?

There’s a lot involved in my job: social considerations, as well as economic, giving as well as taking, protecting as well as healing, investing in both human and capital resources.

Can you take us through a typical working day?

Every step of my busy day is always written in my diary. I normally start by attending the executives meeting at the headquarters, followed by a meeting with the strategic planning team. When I finally make it to my office I start with the urgent files, then any pending matters. My secretary keeps me informed of any actions that are urgently required, and then I select and respond to the most important missed calls as I follow up on the organization of several other aspects of my role, such as the Gala Dinner. My team and colleagues come in and out for meetings, discussing presentations and new systems, such as the HR system that has just been implemented. Returning to my emails I look through them and start by replying to the most critical, working my way down through them all. I normally end up in the office until late, sorting out emails, making and receiving telephone calls, writing, solving and communicating everything that has to be done in one busy day.

How do you balance business and family life?

So far I don’t seem to have found the balance! I am a work-oriented person, and feel my job is important to others, so I make it a priority.

What do you do to relax?

Sleep! But only do I really relax during Eid, or on holidays, or when I find time to have a relaxing massage.

Do you have any hobbies or a particular passion outside of work?

I love traveling and visiting romantic destinations.

What books are you currently reading?

I have been busy for the past two years preparing my MBA, and since research and assignments take up any spare time I have I barely have time to read! My preference in reading, however, is real life stories and novels.

What is your favourite holiday destination?

Definitely Italy and Monaco.

If you could be anyone else for a day, who would you be?

I can’t imagine being anybody else except me!

What characteristics do you find most appealing in other people?

Honest, enthusiastic people.

What is your favourite type of food?

Vegetables and seafood.

Tell us one thing that people might be surprised to learn about you.

I am a romantic person! People think I am an extremely practical kind of person, but I’m also a romantic at heart.

Sur La Terre International S.A. Head office: 26 avenue de la Praille – 1227 GENEVA – SWITZERLAND Tel: + 41 22 310 48 00 | Fax: + 41 22 310 48 01

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sur la terre section snapshot

It was Khan Al-Khalil Market, in Cairo. As I walked through the alleys, I came across this old coffee shop that, to me, truly reflected the spirit of the area. After taking this photograph I couldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t resist the temptation to actually drink the tea as well!

Camera: Nikon D 200 / Lens: Nikon 80-200 mm Photographer: Fadi El Benni

sur la terre cultural agenda

Dubai Fashion Week 5th - 9th October 2008

Dubai Fashion Week, which will showcase seasonal collections from leading and emerging designers from the region for the Spring/ Summer 2009 edition, will take place from the 5th – 9th October 2008 at the Godolphin Ball Room in Jumeirah Emirates Towers. The Spring/ Summer 2009 edition will be the fourth seasonal installment of Dubai Fashion Week, which aims to establish Dubai’s position in the global fashion industry and promote the regional fashion design industry. Leading and emerging designers will be represented and the collections will range from bridge/couture to prêt à porter.

“Dubai Fashion Week is quickly gaining the reputation as one of the most important and must attend fashion trade events on the region’s fashion calendar, not only for buyers but also for stylists and all industry insiders. I am delighted to be in a position where I can bring these amazing collections to fashionistas across the region,” said Zayan Ghandour, co – owner and buyer from S*uce Boutique and advisory board member for Dubai Fashion Week. Dubai Fashion Week is the region’s flagship fashion trade event and focuses on offering retail buyers, fashion professionals and media an exclusive preview of the season’s up coming collections and trends, thus generating publicity and revenue for the fashion industry.

Facilities such a media room, media centre and

media lounge are available onsite to accommodate all media requirements, ensuring maximum exposure for the event as well as the participants.

The buyers lounge plays an important role in facilitating business opportunities, ensuring an environment where buyers and designers can develop business associations. From this season onwards, in addition to collection show opportunities provided to designers at a highly subsidised fee, there will be designer exhibition stands through the period of Dubai Fashion Week. Dubai Fashion Week (DFW) is a ‘by invitation only’ fashion trade event aimed at bringing together major advocates of the fashion industry by providing them a common platform.

Overseen by an advisory board, DFW enables local and regional designers and fashion houses to present their collections to global and regional buyers, media, fashion professionals and the general public.

DFW is owned and organised by Concept Events, a member of Concept Group, a full service event management company with wide expertise and experience of managing corporate events, seminars and exhibitions, as well as live entertainment, award ceremonies and trade shows. DFW was co-founded by Marc Robinson who is a well-known international fashion show producer.

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sur la terre cultural agenda

Middle East International Film Festival, Abu Dhabi 10th - 19th October 2008

MEIFF, held in Abu Dhabi, is an annual event and a project of the Abu Dhabi Authority for Culture and Heritage (ADACH). The festival is a cultural event dedicated to bringing a diverse slate of international films and programs to the community and introducing filmmakers from around the world to the resources of the region. Held from October 10th - 19th 2008, the festival includes Gala events and screenings at the prestigious Emirates Palace. This year the organizers of the Middle East International Film Festival (MEIFF), in collaboration with Shawati magazine, are also giving artists and designers the chance to submit their artwork for the opportunity to have their design become the next official MEIFF Poster. The competition was announced earlier this year at the MEIFF press conference held at the Cannes International Film Festival. Just as MEIFF highlights the talents of filmmakers and actors from around the world, the Poster Design Competition was created to offer talented artists and artists the opportunity to become involved in the festival in a way other than film. The theme of the poster is simple - it should reflect the mission statement of MEIFF and have the black pearl, the symbol of the festival, incorporated as a main element in the poster and any graphic, photographic or calligraphic elements can be used to highlight the national identity of the UAE and the culture in the region.

ArtParis, Abu Dhabi

17th - 21st November 2008 Artparis Abu Dhabi is returning with an impressive panorama of modern and contemporary art in a variety of media, ranging from painting to sculpture to photography. From November 17th to 21st 2008, Artparis promises to present a broad panorama of the artistic creations of the 20th and 21st centuries. With the support of the authorities in charge of culture and patrimony (ADACH), the art fair plays an active role in the cultural activities of Abu Dhabi.

The fair’s official inauguration will take place on Monday, November 17th in the presence of his Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the Crown Prince of the Emirate of Abu Dhabi.

On the grounds of Emirates Palace, 57 galleries will exhibit more than 3,300 works of art, with

more than 700 artists showcased, including Kader Attia, Paul Cézanne, Shilpa Chavan, Jim Dine, Bernard Frize, Alberto Giacometti, Damien Hirst, Henri Matisse, Shirin Neshat, Julian Opie, Yazid Oulab, Pablo Picasso, Thomas Ruff, Faisal Samra, Niki de Saint Phalle, Massimo Vitali and Andy Warhol, amongst others. Additionally, 8 young galleries emerging on the international contemporary art market are united under the banner of “Artparis Abu Dhabi Young Talent”.

Each of them will be representing the works of a young artist yet to be discovered.

Artparis Abu Dhabi is strengthening its policy of selection and participation of contemporary art galleries active in the international market.

Having established itself in 2007 in Abu Dhabi by creating the largest fair for modern and contemporary art ever organized in the United Arab Emirates, Artparis has carved a name for itself both regionally and internationally in the art field.

sur la terre cultural agenda

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painting, jewellery-making and decorative arts.

There’s the option of hosting your own private event in the restaurant, Fountain Courtyard or fully equipped airy conference centre.

With many events already held and many more planned over the coming months, La Fontaine Centre of Contemporary Art welcomes artists of all genres and levels. One such event that is sure to pique your interest is planned for Tuesday 14th October 2008, when the renowned artist Nedimm Kufi will be holding a Painting Art Exhibition exclusively for customers who hold the tickets for Vahdat Persian Sisters Concert. Named ‘Soap / Silence’, Kufi explains the exhibition in his own words: “I want to deal with the ‘Arab Zen’, and establish the base for ‘image beyond wisdom’, which, until this moment, is a new experience in the Arab region”.

La Fontaine, Centre of Contemporary Art, Manama La Fontaine Centre of Contemporary Art is located in the heart of Manama and is a historical monument dating back a hundred and fifty years.

The Centre is the only one of its kind throughout the Middle East, revered as a masterpiece of architectural and artistic glory, which makes it a special haven for architectural connoisseurs. It features a number of contemporary art galleries, an open-air amphitheatre, an exquisite fine dining restaurant, an exclusive spa and a state-of-the-art Pilates & Dance Studio. In addition to exhibitions, La Fontaine features a variety of performances under the stars in the magical Moon Courtyard, including everything from music to theatre, art movies and lectures. They also offer various workshops throughout the year, encompassing

Treasures of Islamic Art Exhibition, Doha

1st September - 5th October 2008

19th Doha International Book Fair December 2008

The Doha International Book Fair, held at the Qatar International Exhibition Center, is one of the biggest book fairs in the region. Hosted by the Qatari National Council for Art, Culture and Heritage, the fair is attended by thousands of people from all walks of life, including special trips for various schools in which hundreds of children take part. Around 98,000 books were on display at the last edition of this fair, the majority of which were in Arabic, with about 17,000 books in other languages.

Islamic art is characterized by the secular art produced under Islamic influences. Although an art unified in style and purpose, it is often marked by strong regional characteristics as well as by significant influence from other cultures, given the vast geographic and temporal boundaries, with Calligraphy often playing the most important role in this highly dynamic and deeply rooted art. Treasures of Islamic Art will show pieces of art, meticulously selected, as woven textiles and carpets, illuminated and delicate manuscripts, inlaid metalwork, blown glass, glazed ceramics, carved wood, carefully embellished furniture and calligraphic panels.

Ranging in date from the 12th through to the 20th century, this special and unique Exhibition, at Souq Waqif, will bring masterpieces of some important Islamic Art collectors from the Arab World, as well as state-of-the-art pieces from Doha itself.

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sur la terre cultural out & about agenda

Shopping The new luxury wing at the Villagio Mall, Doha, named ‘Via Domo’, has now opened its high-class doors to the public, and boutiques such as Christian Dior, Louis Vuitton, Bonpoint, Tanagra, Tod’s and Fendi have also opened theirs. Tiffany, Bottega Veneta, Burberry and Loewe are set to open by the end of month, with Marc Jacobs, Gucci, Dolce & Gabbana, Prada and many other well known luxury names opening shortly thereafter. In addition, ‘Via Domo’ boasts a 13 screen cinema, with an I Max screen also opening soon. Villagio Mall itself, recently named by Forbes.com as one of the best malls in the world, has opened more than 200 stores since its official launching in August 2006.

Fishing Fishing trips are a great way to get out on the water for a day for families, or just with friends. Various hotels and clubs can organise trips for you on request, as can the many tour companies that Doha has available. Contact them directly for details. You can also contact the Qatar Sea Angling Association at +974 5500179, who hold meetings and fishing competitions.

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Blokarting

Golf

Blokarting is the latest sport to hit the Middle East, and it’s catching on! Qatar has the perfect conditions for blokarting; lots of hard flat desert and good wind. Gulfkarts runs rentals on Fridays and Saturdays at Blokart Paradise, just past Wakra. It’s a great way to spend your day off with friends, but you can also get your company or school involved for an afternoon of bonding and team-building, as they can organise ‘fun days’ that are perfect for any large group. Call +974 5072661 or email: sales@gulfkarts.com for more details.

If you fancy a round of golf on a lush green playground, the Doha Golf Club is the only place to be. The Doha Golf Club is open to non-members, as is the Doha Golf Restaurant, and both the course and the clubhouse make for a refreshing change of scene from the surrounding desert. Call +974 4960777 for details.

© Qatar Tourism Authority, Private Image Gallery

Camel Racing If you fancy doing something different, perhaps camel riding is for you. Visit the camel racing stadium in Shahaniyya, and either watch the camels in training and have a camel ride or watch the races. If you want to ride yourself, it starts at 5am on Fridays and Saturdays. Ring +974 4872028 for further details.

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Natural History The Qatar Natural History Group organises trips on the last Friday of every month to places of interest around Qatar. They also arrange lectures and distribute an e-newsletter which contains pictures and information about Qatar.

Contact Fran Gillespie on +974 4675991 for further details on outings and membership.

Š Qatar Tourism Authority, Private Image Gallery

Š Qatar Tourism Authority, Private Image Gallery

Motor Racing Losail Racing Circuit saw both GP racing and the world super-bike racing in recent years, and is managing to attract big names from all around the world to Doha. From driving courses to events or just a sporting day at the track, contact them directly for more details by calling +974 4729151 or emailing info@circuitlosail.com