Ohlala Qatar August 2017

THE ESSENCE OF STYLE

Make a Statement A sophisticated sit down with Delpozo

From Europe With Love Gorgeous Travel Escapes PLUS The best of pre-fall collections

Mid Season Style Our top picks to see you through

www.ohlala-magazine.com

www.ohlala-magazine.com August 2017 | Issue 74 QATAR | QR20

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LAGOONA MALL, FIRST FLOOR, DOHA, QATAR TEL: +974 4432 9946

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VILLAGGIO MALL - VIP AREA - GATE 8 - 44643533

EMILIOPUCCI.COM

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blugirl.it

LAGOONA MALL, 1st Floor, DOHA, QATAR tel. +974 4432 9946 12

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G. Hamad St.: 44408408 Landmark: 44861400 Al Sadd: 44131452 Villagio: 44519900 The Pearl: 44881194 Mall of Qatar: 44179930 Chopard Boutiques: Hamad International Airport: 40101673, Marsa Malaz Kempinski: 40355293 www.ohlala-magazine.com

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Contents Ohlala

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Hello & Welcome We’re At A Style Crossroads And It’s Seriously Hot Right Now A Note From The Editor

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The Main Features Style Focus: Everything You Need Deep With Delpozo All Things August Beauty

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The Local Lowdown Ohlala Boutiques: Best Buys Chic Eats: Mediterranean Love Miss Ohlala

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August 2017 issue 74

Chairman Khalifa Bin Mubarak Al Khalifa Chief Executive Officer Greg Hughes

Publishing Director Edward Smith

General Manager

Georgie Bradley

Contributors

Creative DIrector

sales director Samar Kallas

Editor-in-Chief

Angela Beitz Craig Ferriman Shabana Adam

Production Manager Neil Mahmood Distribution Manager

Paula Leal Graphic Designer Jyoti Rawat

Website Designer & Developer Ammar Ali

Photography Contributors

Website

Abshar Kader

Melek Yildirimtekin

Faras Ghani

Ajit Kumar

Accountants

COVER Image Sandra Mansour

Credits image Roberto Coin

Distribution Team

Printing Press Al Anan Printing Press LLC

Jayapragash Ganesan

Hussein Zreik

Gigimon Thankachen Praveen Alexander

Distribution Bahrain – Al Hilal Qatar – Dar Al Sharq

Rajesh Abdul Kadar

UAE – GLS, Tawseel Distribution & Logistics

Enquiries Editorial: sofia@ohlala-magazine.com: georgie@ohlala-magazine.com | Advertising: edward@ohlala-magazine.com | General: admin@ohlala-magazine.com Telephone: Qatar +974 4441 8415/+974 4421 3089, Bahrain +973 1721 6099, Postal Address: Ohlala Magazine, The Nans Group, P O BOX 30378, Budaiya, Kingdom of Bahrain. No part of this publication may be reproduced without the written permission of the publisher. All Rights Reserved. The views expressed in this magazine are not necessarily the views of the publisher. Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained in this publication. However, Ohlala Publishing and all of its publications cannot accept legal responsibility for any error, content or omissions.

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L e t t e r E d i t o r ’ s

delpozo pre fall 2017

W

elcome to the August issue. I feel at this point in the year, we all need an injection of energy to get us through the stagnation so true of this time of year. Putting the fatigue-inducing temperatures aside,

let’s talk mid-season fashion. We oft find it an odd point in the season because we’re approaching the new, but are still going through stacks of summer wear too. In this edition of Ohlala, we embrace the ‘in between’ fashion which has the optimism and sunniness of summer but also the chic moodiness of autumn. We’ve highlighted what we feel best represents that sophisticated tension between the two by having a chat with Josep Font of Delpozo and lathering over the pre-fall collection. And for anyone who needs a definitive list of pieces to add to their wardrobe and doesn’t want the effort of scouring, we have a comprehensive guide for you, too. Alongside our style pages are our beauty must-knows: the best skincare products to keep you from dryness and add hydration. And for all you perfume connoisseurs, we have a round-up of the perfect scents – let your nose do all the work.

Elsewhere in the issue, we tie loose ends and bring you sumptuous hotel hotspots where the living is grand and the daydreaming is endless as well as our usual chic eats and spotlights. As much as I can’t wait for next month to arrive, along with all the frivolity and pace that comes with it, I’m going to take advantage of the quiet before the storm.

Georgie Bradley 22

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Editor in Chief

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For the Modern Middle-Eastern Woman

THE ESSENCE OF STYLE

makE a STaTEmENT a sophisticated sit down with Delpozo

FrOm EurOpE WiTH LOvE Gorgeous Travel Escapes pLuS The best of pre-fall collections

miD SEaSON STYLE Our TOp piCkS TO SEE YOu THrOuGH

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Ohlala Cover August Qatar final.indd 1

August Edition available now on issuu.com 24

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marni capsule 2017

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emilio pucci

gucci pre fall 2017

delpozo

ellery

hillier bartley

maison margiela

alexander mcqueen

Marc jacobs

marc jacobs

mansur gavriel

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milly

THE Wish List

Stuck between summer and autumn?

Here are your mid-season essentials.

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Style

burberry

roland mouret

anya hindmarch

Focus

fendi

borgo de nor red valentino koche

coach gas bijoux off white

balmain

marc jacobs

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salvatore ferragamo

victoria victoria beckham 28

Code red, it’s time to embrace your inner vixen with a strong swatch of this traffic stopping hue. Work it from head to toe for a grand effect.

DON’T MISS THIS CHANCE!

TERMS & CONDITIONS: * Promo is valid on all weekends of August 2017 only (Thur or Fri) * Promo is valid for brunch with soft beverages only * Promo cannot be in conjunction with other promotions * Additional QR 100/person for Friday Brunch with house beverages * Additional QR 50 for room upgrade to the next category * Maximum of 2 adults and 2 kids

Brunch & Bed Package @ QR555 Package includes: * Friday brunch for two at Aramede * Overnight stay in a superior room * Complimentary access to pool & recreational facilities * Complimentary high speed wireless internet connection * 20% F&B dining discount during your stay * Children below 12 yrs old stay & eat for free * 4PM late check out * Special discount for extra night Book with us and become an IHGÂŽ Rewards Club member. www.ohlala-magazine.com For inquiries and reservations, call +974 4408 7777 or email reservations.cpdoha@ihg.com.

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Focus

hugo boss

purificacion garcia

emilia wickstead

loewe

marc jacobs

karl lagerfeld

CĂŠline

acne studios

brunello cucinelli

Nothing spells out sophistication than a team of basic separates. Keep to a neutral palette and remember that less is always more.

warehouse

plakinger

Rosie assoulin

ALC

Robert Clergerie

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victoria beckham

Style

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iris & Ink

Focus

vince

Style

see by chloé

Martin Grant

nina ricci Vince Alexander Mcqueen

brunello cucinelli fendi

brunello cucinelli

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jacquemus

iro

robert clergerie

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moschino

Get in touch with mother earth and her divine spectrum of muted tones.

It’s definitely fashion’s strongest understatement.

BANANA ISLAND BY DAY SOUQ WAQIF BY NIGHT

Cruise in style to Banana Island Resort Doha by Anantara. Unwind under the palms in a tranquil Qatari hideaway. Slip into a signature treatment and push the pleasures with 20% off at all restaurants, spa and recreational outlets. Step from your boat and into the colorful comforts of the Souq. An evening of Arabian delights has just begun.

• Accommodation in room or suite for two at Souq Waqif Boutique Hotels.

• Buffet breakfast for two.

• Two-way luxury boat trip to Banana Island Resort Doha by Anantara.

• One day beach access at Banana Island Doha by Anantara per night stay.

• 20% discount across restaurants, spa, wellness and recreation outlets at Banana Island Doha

by Anantara (not combined with any other active promotions).

*Offer valid till 31 December 2017 *Offer Valid for Sunday through Thursday. * Terms and Conditions Apply

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Style

delpozo

rejina pyo

Focus poca & poca

erdem oscar de la renta

lanvin

mary katranztou

christian louboutin

valentino

When meeting your lovely friends for lunch, one of these pieces wouldn’t go amiss. Go for an elegant and sharply cinched look.

max mara

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issey miyake

Self portrait

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Style

golden goose

rejina pyo

Focus

Rag & bone delpozo

rejina pyo diane von furstenberg giorgio armani

zadig & voltaire zadig & voltaire zadig & voltaire

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just cavalli

etro

Proportions here are oversized and asymmetric with fabulous hero numbers. Think a little androgynous with heaps of architecture.

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DEEP WITH

DELP You’d recognise a Delpozo sleeve from a mile off, wouldn’t you? We chat with Creative Director Josep Font who tells us how travels influences his collections, athletic style and why he really wants to visit Australia.

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OZO www.ohlala-magazine.com

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Designer Focus “I discovered this Russian contemporary painter that created enchanting pieces and he became my inspiration for that season.”

T

ell us about Delpozo’s PF17 collection? What was your inspiration?

I’ve always been a fan of Oscar Niemeyer’s work.

There is a building in Asturias, in northern Spain where I wanted to integrate his work in one of my collections. His architecture is so minimal, yet so organic, and it becomes very visually impactful. I wanted to translate that into my PreFall collection with the volumes and as well as the colours of red, navy, ivory.

In each collection, I mix two concepts, and for this season, besides Niemeyer’s architecture, I looked at a different source of inspiration which was Mary Delany. She was an old woman who made ‘découpage’, a form of collages based from small pieces of papers creating beautiful floral still lives. That is the idea behind the patchwork for this season.

Do your travels influence your work?

Absolutely, when I’m travelling I’m continuously on the lookout for any possible inspiration. For example, for one season, I was walking downtown New York at night and caught a glimpse of an art gallery with these portraits that I found fascinating. As it was closed I noted down the name of the artist and when I got back to the hotel I googled him.

I discovered this Russian contemporary painter that created enchanting pieces and he became my inspiration for that season.

Where is your favourite city and why?

It’s hard to say, I’m from Barcelona, and I find an ease to be there. However, it has been quite touristy in the recent years and has lost a bit of its magic. Still, it is my favourite city above all.

What do you think are the fundamental differences between Madrid, Barcelona and New York in terms of fashion?

Barcelona, near the ocean, has this ease to it, and people are more laid back in their aesthetic, especially compared to

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Designer Focus

“I’ve been lucky enough that many amazing women have chosen to wear Delpozo – Cate Blanchett, Julianne Moore, even Princess Deena.”

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“Barcelona, near the ocean, has this ease to it, and people are more laid back in their aesthetic.”

Madrid. It’s the capital of Spain and has a traditional touch to it, very classic. As for New York, it’s so urban and the culture is so focused on exercise, it has a very strong sense of the urban and an athletic style.

Which city do you feel has the best fashion?

Paris, without a doubt.

Which city’s architecture most influences Delpozo’s shapes and structure?

Barcelona. The modernist architecture and art have influenced how I design. It’s a fusion of structure and nature, all in one.

Which celebrity figure would you love to dress in Delpozo?

I’ve been lucky enough that many amazing women have chosen to wear Delpozo – Cate Blanchett, Julianne Moore, even Princess Deena.

What do you always have to pack when you go on your travels?

My iPad where I can watch movies, read, check the news, social media and emails.

Where haven’t you been in the world that you’d like to visit?

Australia. It’s been my inspiration for my recent resort collection. I’d love to travel to see Lake Hillier.

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Designer Focus Wardrobe Staples Our picks of the best pre-fall pieces.

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Look into my eyes Sandra Mansour’s AW17 collection is deeply evocative.

Each piece demands its own reception. Feast your eyes on these whimsical numbers and let your imagination float.

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Get your daily dose of Ohlala online now THE ESSENCE OF STYLE

SMART TA L K S DESERT MANNEQUIN CHATS SPIRITUALITY AND STYLE

HOW TO FIND YOUR

INNER PEACE

DECADENT DAYS & N I G H T S

WAYS TO A WINNING RAMADAN WARDROBE WWW.OHLALA-MAGAZINE.COM JUNE 2017 | ISSUE 72 QATAR | QR20

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Beauty Spot From backstage looks to perfume picks to zingy-scented hand creams, August is shaping up beautifully.

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Etro

Beauty Buzz

vivi pilgaard hydra repair day cream GR

exfoliant aesop

Cellularose, hydradiance

purifying cleansing oil, Laura Mercier

orchidee imperiale black

Fresh

hydra essential moisturise, clarins

Faced Flawless skin starts with the perfect

perfecting water moisture, laura mercier

canvas. Shake up your beauty regime with these fabulous

jakub

products that will help you to achieve a

saczuk

intensive serum, filorga

glowing complexion.

softening milk cleanser, nars

daywear & night wear cream, estĂŠe lauder

son

jamie nel

hydrating face cream, bobbi brown herbal recovery night cream, Jurlique

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detox serum, grown alchemist

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Beauty Talk

charlotte tribury

lancome, la nuit tresor alexander mcqueen, for her

chanel

opus, amouage

iden convey

au the noir bulgari

the

perfect

picks of perfumes With our top favourites, you’ll have a sensory overload. the noir 29, le labo paco rabanne olympea

roberto cavalli, paradiso assoluto

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estĂŠe lauder, modern muse le rouge gloss

rosa nobile acqua di parm

star magnolia, jo malone london

relax and refresh

Relax, unwind and simply get away from your daily hassles Take time off to recharge and refresh with our tailored massage services at the Spa. Our therapists provide a full range of facial and body treatments, using essential oils that are exclusively derived from natural organic resources.

For bookings, please call +974 44455530

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movenpick.com

Beauty Focus

main

Introducing three citrusy hand & nail treatment creams, Clarins have the perfect limited edition handbag essentials. Grapefruit, mandarin and lemon leaf fragrances are what we call zesty and zingy.

Just don’t make the (absolutely justified) mistake of licking it!

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squeeze

Ohlala Arabia Bringing style across The Middle East

Follow us www.issuu.com www.ohlala-magazine.com

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Ohlala Boutiques

What’s Hot In August

We round up the best of what Fifty One East has to offer from runway chic to everyday accessory pieces.

Carolina Herrera

Exquisite pieces that feel effortless and simple. It’s all about challenging proportion and scale.

Pa n d o r a

Dainty and delicate accessories for lovely, elegant women.

Weill

The archetypical chic woman who seeks tailoring and taste in equal measure.

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Les Petits Joueurs

From furry to structured handy items, these pieces are essential.

G i a m b at s i ta V a l l i

If you want to stand out from the crowd, these looks are the way to go.

Linda Fa r r o w

Throw on some muchneeded shade with these highly cool sunglasses.

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Ohlala Boutiques

who’s

that girl?

Gabrielle was a free woman, sbove all else, with a tireless thirst for independence, that women of her time could not claim. A woman in love, passionate, unbowed, she remained defiant in the face of obstacles blocker her path to the destiny she had chosen for herself.

The latest perfume from Chanel embodies the above woman. It is filled with floral notes and is made up of ylangylang, tuberose, jasmine and orange blossom. This fragrance is an ode to the Chanel woman, to its creator (the dear Coco Chanel) and through her, to all women, of all ages and all walks of life.

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Image by Bambah bambah.com

Never miss an issue

Follow us Facebook: Ohlala Qatar | Instagram: ohlalamagazine

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Mall of Qatar Tel. 4021 4777 • Villaggio Mall Tel. 44959060 • Landmark Mall Tel. 44565340 • Doha Festival City Tel. 40285019 virginmegastore.me virginmena virginmena virginmegastoreme

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Ohlala Boutiques

Figment By Amouage

An extraordinary and beguiling perfume, Figment is the highly anticipated third chapter of ‘Portraits of Life’, an exuberant exploration of the second cycle of the Amouage narrative

by Creative Director Christopher Chong. An expression of elusive beauty inspired by Chong’s enduring fascination with Bhutan, the Land of Happiness, this scented work of art sublimely sings the ethereal wonder that cloaks the kingdom in his dreams.

Amouage is available at Lagoona Mall and Mall of Qatar

Th e H e i gh t o f S u m m e r

Keep Fit

The Reserved woman is a self-aware fashionista who stays on track with the latest trends, not only fashion-wise but also pop culture and the arts. Her clothes are her motto. It’s not important if she’s a romantic, or an elegant, a sportswoman or a hipster. The Neo-romantic will focus on the wide long-sleeved, asymmetric, striped blouses, laced tops and ruffles. The 90-ties hipster girl will hunt down the worn, printed T-shirts and jeans. The avant-garde businesswoman will invest in minimalist, brave toned garments, tunics and oversized blouses with wide sleeves.

Reserved is available at Villaggio Mall and Gulf Mall

Oysho presents Lux Safari, the new Gymwear SS17 collection, with the latest sportswear trends for the summer. Black contrasts with tropical prints and earthy tones to shape this collection’s colour palette. A collection of loose-fitting and technical garments that provide freedom of movement, focusing once again on comfort and lightness throughout the collection. The new pieces feature shorts and capri leggings with details like mesh and tulle combined with cut-out openings and criss-cross straps on tops and T-shirts, offering greater support with unique style. Oysho is available at Villaggio Mall, Landmark Mall and in the newly opened stores at Mall of Qatar and Festival City www.ohlala-magazine.com

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A n A z u r e A f fa i r The depth of every summer in the Middle East has us longing for a cool dunk in a pool and dreaming of travel to faraway exotic locales. An Azure Affair celebrates the idea of a romantic honeymoon trip to a faraway island with days lounging in beachwear, eating succulent tropical fruits, and staring at endless blue oceans and skies and exotic blooms. No more dark moody tones. Give us all the bold monochromatic hues, all the patterns, and all the flowers!

Concept, Styling, and Florals: Singapore Flower | Photography: Moe Ramadan Outfits: Maison Maillot | Makeup: SkinSealed Jewellery: Azza Al Hujairi | All Businesses 100% Bahrain Based

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Check out more shots of #AnAzureAffair on Instagram

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Palatial Living When you travel to the cultural capital of Spain, is there any better place to haul up than a 19th century palace? We discovered the sights, the shopping and the streets of Madrid with a stay at the 5-star Gran Meliรก Palacio de los Duques.

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When in Madrid, book yourself into a palace! In the centre of

the city stands the stunning Elizabethan façade that is the Gran Meliá Palacio de los Duques (Gran Meliá Palace of the Dukes). It’s privileged location means that you can let your tourist 101 out in full force; you’re practically on the doorstep of some of the most important monuments in the city, including the Royal Palace, Royal Theatre and the Cathedral of the Almudena, not to mention the abundant plazas and squares packed with some of the best bars, cafés, restaurants and snack stops.

Gran Meliá Palacio de los Duques is an architectural feast for the eyes (and your snapchat!). The building is a blend of vintage splendour, timeless luxury and delicate contemporary touches with an avant-garde flair. The palace itself is located on the site of what used to be one of the most important convents in Europe in the 13th century, the Convent of Santo Domingo. Today, the Meliá hospitality brand has managed to successfully maintain the character and elegance of the original structure: the residence of the Dukes of Granada de Ega. One of the major highlights of the property and a huge tick in our books is the spectacular and historically-important 1000m² garden which is unbelievably tranquil and peaceful to walk through. Greenery in the middle of busy city life? Yes, please!

“Clarins bathroom amenities will be a fabulous reminder of why the Meliá

brand is great at making you fall in

love with hotels over and over again.”

We arrive to a warm welcome where the front desk staff are attentive and fast with the check-in process. As we head up to our Supreme Room with a polite and helpful bellboy in the lift, we’re told that the hotel’s interior is inspired by the work of the famous Spanish painter Velázquez, whose creativeness acts as a muse for the elegant and exquisitely designed rooms. More specifically, Las Meninas, the Velázquez masterpiece, is the motivation behind the decor of the rooms at the Gran Meliá Palacio de los Duques. The colour palette, the sharp, clean lines and fine textiles, have all been selected with the greatest of skill to recreate classical elegance with a modern flair. All the rooms feature the latest technology, exquisite furniture and luxurious bathroom details to ensure you enjoy a unique experience of rest, comfort and style in the heart of the Madrid of the Austrias.

When we enter our Supreme Room, it’s evident that the utmost attention to detail has gone into its formation. Huge windows glorify the utter beauty of Madrid whilst natural light pours into the room, highlighting the ochre tones and classical atmosphere. There’s nothing but space in this 38sqm room where the comfiest king size bed makes for some of the best siestas and sleeps and the small living area is a restful addition, whilst the magnificent bathroom is all-inviting with its amazing tub and rain shower with waterfall effect. Under floor heating and the delicate perfume of the Clarins bathroom amenities will be a fabulous reminder of why the Meliá brand is great at making you fall in love with hotels over and over again.

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“This hotel is more than just a place to stay, it’s an extraordinary way of life.”

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Travel Escapes

bars, a tea corner and outdoor areas with different gastronomic options.

Of all the culinary offerings, it’s Dos Cielos Madrid by Hermanos Torres that gets the foodie crowd talking. Located in the area previously occupied by the Palace stables, and with an outdoor area in the historic garden, the restaurant’s menu is comprised of some of the Torres brothers’ (who have one Michelin Star) most emblematic dishes along with a menu inspired by the area of Madrid of the Austrias; Castilian and historic, along with classic allusions that have been recovered with a touch of creativity. This is the place to go for a friendly and fine-dining atmosphere and a true taste of old-school local favourites with a special twist. For special occasion dinners or even as a treat during your stay, this place won’t disappoint!

For those of you who are there to shop, get ready for major fashion envy. Gran Via, the high street of all high streets is mere minutes away.

Known as the ‘Broadway’ of Madrid, this is where you’ll find popular brands like Zara, Bershka, H&M, Salsa and many more. Stop off for a snack at one of the many quaint cafes serving delicious churros (crispy sticks of fried batter) with chocolate sauce, before continuing up Calle Fuencarral or Calle Hortaleza, dotted with cute vintage shops. One of the city’s oldest district and Madrid’s multicultural heart, Lavapies is where African, Indian and Asian influences come to life with charming restaurants and street-market-style shops. Surrounding the hotel area are the narrow streets of La Latina, in Madrid’s Old Town. A hidden gem packed with chic shops that you’ll spend hours wondering. Serrano is another area you might want to check out; it’s one of the trendiest and most expensive neighborhoods of Madrid, where travellers will find luxurious shops located in what were once small palaces.

When you’ve had your fill of the city, Gran Meliá Palacio de los Duques is the best place to return to and make use of excellent facilities. There’s a breathtaking swimming pool and jacuzzi on the top floor overlooking the Royal Palace, the Almudena Cathedral and the famous district of the Austrias, with a solarium and cocktail bar. The unique Thai Room Wellness features four massage cabins, sauna, Turkish bath, therapeutic shower, changing room and showers. Here, the most exquisite treatments provided by expert Thai therapists will help to relax your mind and body, renewing your energy for another day in the great Spanish capital.

Much like many of its sister properties, the Gran Meliá Palacio de los Duques is another 5-star win for Meliá, a hospitality giant that keeps on impressing us with its many thoughtful elements. This hotel is more than just a place to stay, it’s an extraordinary way of life and, just like us, you’re going to find it very hard to leave this stylish living!

For more information and reservations call: +34 912 76 47 47 or visit: www.melia. com/en/hotels/spain/madrid/gran-melia-palacio-de-los-duques or www.ohlala-magazine.com

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6/14/15 10:15 AM

Grand Expectations

er Craig Ferriman cools As the mercury levels soar, our contributing writ a luxury staycation. off at The St. Regis Doha while indulging in

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Local Escapes

Lots of properties in Doha could be somewhere else. The St. Regis is Doha and it makes for the ultimate staycation.

I think of hotels in London and how in a cost-conscious world, things once taken for granted, are now considered unnecessary frills.

Well, rarely in Doha and certainly not when you stay at The St Regis Doha. We were treated like customers from the moment we checked in and as soon as we had arrived in our wonderful room the doorbell rang and we were acquainted with Alex the butler. I’m not kidding. He gave us his card and offered to tend to our needs for the duration of our stay.

I have never had that before!

The hotel is like a castle. Long corridors with crisp white walls, separate wings and many outlets. It’s easy to get lost in it. I went to find

the spa hidden away in a dark cavern in the basement and treated myself to a four-hands massage. This was also a first for me. Two therapists massaging you at once in harmony. Oh my goodness, it was partly painful, mostly pleasurable. This massage pressed into parts of the body in ways I had not experienced before and at one point, with a thumb in both sides of my neck, I was starting to be worried but honestly, it eased muscle tension and rejuvenated the skin. Though I felt broken by the end, I felt brand new the next day! The two therapists were incredibly talented, truly did work in synchronicity and their sense of discretion was notably commendable.

After my massage and now feeling relaxed, I checked out their pool party which runs all summer. It’s called ‘Splashdown’ which made me think of a water park but it was much more chilled than that. Families filled the pool area showing it off to be a relaxed atmosphere where kids can feel at home but adults too can unwind. A DJ plays house beats and chart hits and you bathe in the summer sun at the Oyster Bar and Bay. Impressive cocktails are served at the bar area by the DJ along with cold beer and a decent selection of light snacks and pool dishes. The beach is still open through the summer and you still feel the vibe from there. I lay back on a sofa on the sand while teens lobbed a volleyball back and forward over a net and couples dipped their feet in the sea and had a swim and more adventurous types hired jet skies and put their feet down on the pedal!

There is no shortage of restaurant options in the The St. Regis Doha. I opted for the award-winning Al Sultan Brahim which won Best Lebanese restaurant at the 2016 FACT awards. Starters are rich in flavour and deeply tangy - a reminder of why Lebanese cuisine is world class food. The signature of this restaurant is that you can go and select the fish you want and they’ll gut it and grill or fry it for you. Not ideal if you don’t like seeing the eyes in the fish but I wasn›t bothered about that.

I chose a red snapper locally caught from the Persian Gulf and it was absolutely delicious. Cooked with simplicity and so tasty; cooked in salt, pepper and a little lemon. Unfortunately, during the summer months, it›s rather obligatory to sit inside but I noticed many Lebanese diners there which is always a sign that the food is of authentic quality. Come the fall, I will definitely be returning to dine under the stars outside.

The room is classically designed. The bed was so comfortable that I’m considering investing in new pillows and a better mattress at home.

I had forgotten how comfortable a great night›s sleep could be. I had a king size bed with a sea view on the tenth floor. The bath had a TV above it and the lavatory and shower were all separated by glass doors.

The finishings were of a high standard but it also felt traditional and homely. Clean white walls, beige sofas, white bedding and marble and glass in the bathroom.

Breakfast at The Vine is a cut above most hotel breakfasts. The staff are seven star in my view. I lost my watch after my massage. My brain had totally switched off but they went out of their way to find it, track me down and return it to me. The St. Regis Doha display standards at their absolute highest.

For more information or reservations call: 4446 0000 www.ohlala-magazine.com

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Musings in muscat We love any excuse to head to Oman. We get that all- important escape but it’s also not too far away. We checked into the Grand Millennium Muscat for a chic urban experience.

Centrally

located in the business, government, and diplomatic district, with direct access to Muscat Grand Mall, Grand Millennium Muscat Oman is uniquely convenient and is the perfect point for family, friends and business people alike. The 296 rooms and suites, and 40 spacious apartments, are all luxuriously appointed with everything you need. At the Seafood Restaurant and rejuvenating spa, you can indulge all of your senses.

If you go for business, the range of meeting rooms and the Executive Lounge with panoramic views of the city, and located 10-mins from the airport, will ensure a productive time. Staying at this property will provide you the complete Muscat experience with memorable moments to take away.

Amidst the lavish interior, plush pastel furnishings, elements of glass and metal workmanship, an intriguing design clones itself around the hotel’s lobby. The Grand Millennium Hotel’s modern contemporary design is complemented with cultural Omani aesthetics that reflect the rich heritage of the Sultanate. Interestingly, this visually captivating cube like Arabic calligraphy is dotted all over the interior, main reception area, on the staff uniform and even in its exterior walls where a beam of golden light extenuates the mystery of this artistic impression in the evening. “Known to little 86

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this intricate inscription exclusive to our hotel reads in Arabic ‘Oman Ardh Al Salam’ meaning, ‘Oman The Land of Peace”, says Martin Cramer, Area General Manager. He adds “This design signifies the spiritual renaissance of peace and friendship that the embracing Omani society is known for, and Oman is a gateway to the heart of the Arabian Peninsula, they endeavour that the guest take away with them this benevolent notion.” Oman’s architectural heritage is nowadays combined with contemporary reinterprets of elaborate marquetry of traditional and Islamic craft that dates back to the sixteenth century and more than ever, subtle and very tasteful pieces of this art are infused in the buildings and spaces around us.

Our room is huge. It’s incredible spacious with all the right accoutrement that one/we could possibly need and this is very reassuring to us. The TV and coffee machine in particularly satisfied our travel needs as we always love to indulge in an espresso when we can while catching up on the daily news around the world. And of course, the bathroom ticked all the boxes for us too – the palatial bath tub lined up with luxury products can only make you feel regal and totally comfortable. In short, the room far exceeded our expectations and gave us all the happy feels.

When it comes to food, we make all the necessary moves around the restaurants at a hotel. We take the culinary experience very seriously

Travel Escapes

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Travel Escapes

“Zanta Spa takes you back to the origins of wellbeing.”

and can safely say that at the Grand Millennium Muscat, we were treated big time. Taybat is without a doubt the most stand out outlet at the property. If you’re going to go there for anything, it should be for the Omani seafood curry – for two reasons: the portion is fit for a King and Queen and because the fish was swimmingly fresh. Taybat restaurant in general offers a lavish buffet of international flavors for breakfast, lunch and dinner in addition to an à la carte menu.

As far as the leisure facilities, the hotel benefits from a stunning backdrop. Head up to the rooftop pool and you’ll be in awe of the mountain background. This is definitely a selling point and makes for a most relaxing and different pool experience. And to continue with our tranquil experience, we indulged in a spa treatment.

We left behind the world and stepped into a haven at Zanta Spa where the calming energy and soothing scents took us on a relaxing journey. Zanta Spa takes you back to the origins of wellbeing. Professional therapists, experienced in anatomical physiology provide a selection of specific treatments ranging from traditional massages, body, beauty and anti–aging treatments using award winning Kerstin Florian, Terres Da Afrique & Spa Ritual products. Indulge in one of our rituals delivered in six treatment rooms including a couple’s room. Our therapist was the consummate professional and made us feel very comfortable and secure while giving us the most extraordinary massage.

We can highly recommend this property for a weekend getaway that isn’t too far off the beaten track but has the feel of a remote getaway which will restore your batteries and give you a healthy, happy glow.

For more information or reservations call: +968 22 342222 or visit: https://www. millenniumhotels.com/en/muscat/grand-millennium-muscat/ 88

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Chic Eats

A m ed i te r r a ne a n

fe a st

Our contributing writer Craig Ferriman tucks into a magnificent spread of salivating and sophisticated Spanish fare at El Faro.

E

l Faro translates from Spanish as the lighthouse and it’s described as a little corner of Spain in the Marsa Malaz Kempinski, The Peal - Doha. You can so easily forget you’re in a hot dusty desert and imagine you’re in a Spanish barrio bar. I was already to this place because it’s my local drinking spot being a resident of the Pearl but I hadn’t gone there for dinner. It’s happy hour is my favourite in the whole city by virtue of offering a superbly priced bucket of bubbly and a platter of tapas. For QR 150 you can get three cold special beverages and a choice of two tapas dishes. Great value in a chilled setting but dinner builds on that and takes it to the next level.

The menu recently changed to reflect the culinary skills of their new Spanish chef. The concept had previously been more Argentinian.

Now the styles of Galician, Catalonian and Basque cooking shines through in a menu that is not exhaustive but one in which all dishes are on point and playing to the chef ’s strengths.

Appetisers fill the table with tapas treats that the whole table can dig into. Their prawns were delicious cooked simply in a tomato cocktail sauce. There are scallops that are addictive and tingle in the mouth.

And there’s the tuna pie which sounds rather dry and dull but see it and taste and you’ll think it anything but. It’s not just seafood that they know how to deliver with quality.

They’re as dedicated to meat too. Another light bite that will get the taste buds singing Chef fernando are the duck canapes with smoked goat

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cheese, beets and Valencia oranges.

The big set-piece dishes are served in the middle of the tale for communal consumption. Stereotypical Spanish socialising around a big table is the vibe they’ve gone for and I loved it. The seafood paella is literally amazing. Rich and delicious and complemented by an excellent special beverages list boasting many contemporary and revered Spanish drinks plus a few vintages. The must-try dish is the baby lamb which is cooked at 160 degrees for two hours and has only been fed on its mother’s milk. The tenderest lamb you will ever eat and lightly seasoned in salt and pepper. The chef carved it in front of us but really it just tore apart like paper and we all clambered in.

Sensational!

Desserts are simple but superb and inspired by Spanish tradition. Spanish churros dunked in chocolate sauce is dangerously delicious. The creamy rice pudding reignited my enjoyment of such desserts and the sweet pear is the perfect palate cleanser.

The place is trendy and modern. Picasso paintings adorn the walls and there is often a Flamenco dancer to add some flare to the evening. The lighting is atmospherically dim but not so dark that you can’t see your food or your friends. Some people complain that the Pearl is too far to go.

Firstly, it really isn’t and secondly, Spain is a lot further so get yourself over for an evening that will really take you somewhere else.

For more information or reservations call: 4035 5011

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Ohlala Spotlight

S A r a b i a n Ta s t e s This month we highlight the delicacies and sinfully good tastes of Aura. A cluster of restaurants that combine Khaleeji flavours both modern and traditional, with a touch of nostalgia.

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ince its inception in 2012, AURA Hospitality & Food Services has grown to become one of the foremost names in Qatar’s fast-growing, entertainment and hospitality sector.

The group currently owns and manages 44 F&B and Entertainment outlets, including the hugely popular Orient Pearl and Damasca One restaurants, Megapolis, the region’s largest indoor family entertainment centre, alongside KidzMondo an international edutainment concept and various innovative dining concepts - namely La Casa Twenty Eight, Debs W Remman, Baladna and Remman Café Express - at the Medina Centrale, The Pearl, Qatar and Mall of Qatar among others.

Over the coming years, AURA Hospitality & Food Services is planning to further expand its portfolio in Doha through various key projects, including five new restaurant openings in the second quarter of 2017.

‫للخــياطة الرجالــية‬

‫كـالسيـك‬

Classic Man for Tailoring

Tel. 4421 9357

Mob. 3377 2735 P.O. Box: 7346 Doha - Qatar

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Jacobo Prol

Chic Eats

August Dining We’re cooling off at these choice venues.

The Ritz-Carlton, Doha Satisfy your cravings this month of August as we continue our popular Burger Fest at the Admiral’s Club and enjoy a variety of Thai, Chicken Shawarma, Mexican and Texas Burgers, paired with your favorite fries. Daily, starting July 1 to August 31, 5:00 pm to 11:00 pm.

Call: 4484 8512

Four Seasons Hotel Doha Enjoy the luxury of Afternoon Tea tradition with a Japanese twist at Nobu. White Pearl Lounge welcomes you in the light of day to experience tantalising Umami “Savoury” and Okashi “Sweet” bites along with Nobu Matcha Tea and one choice of Ikaati handcrafted tea, coffee, Nobu Mocktail, speciality tea or coffee beverage or a sparkling beverage. Classic Tea Set: 195 QAR per person Sparkling Tea Set: 240 QAR per person. Every Saturday 3:30 PM – 6:00 PM White Pearl Lounge.

Call: 4494 8600

Oryx Rotana Doha Every Friday & Saturday, make the most of your weekend and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere of the Cellar to the fullest with their new Lazy Lunch special. Tuck into our 3 course set menu for QR 95 anytime from 12.00 noon to 7.00 pm, with an option to top it up with our 3 hour beverage package for QR 90 only! It’s the only 94

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way to spend a week-end!

Call: 4402 3333

Damasca One Enjoy a business lunch at this signature Syrian restaurant serving orient taste with Syrian Heritage. It’s QR 49 without Shisha and QR 75 with Shisha and a 3 course set menu. It’s at Souq Waqif and is from 12:00 noon to 4:00pm.

Call: 4475 9088

The St. Regis Doha At Al Sultan Brahim experience the taste of legendary Lebanese cuisine with the trio lunch, a three course lunch menu featuring a selection of Al Sultan Brahim recipes, soft drinks and shisha. It’s QR125, from Sunday through Thursday, 12:00pm – 4:30pm.

Call: 4446 0105

Shangri-La Hotel Doha

Ever tried a burger big enough to share with all your friends? Delight all your senses with Doha’s biggest burger only at the Irish harp. It’s superbly delicious and full of flavour and not to mention, it’s BIG! That’s for QR 299 including fries and is available daily from 5:00pm to 2:00am.

Call: 4485 3000

Gather family and friends for a brunch with a Chinese twist: Dim Sum Brunch at Shanghai Club. For QR 238, choose unlimited servings of signature and traditional dim sum, you’ll also enjoy soup and noodles and more. And because it’s still the weekend, indulge in unlimited flowing beverage at an additional supplement while admiring the view from 43 floors up. Every Friday and Saturday.

Call: 4429 5295

Westin Doha Hotel & Spa

InterContinental Doha The City

Head to Sabai Thai for a Royal Thai brunch!

This is downtown Doha’s best Saturday brunch with traditional royal Thai dishes accompanied by refreshing twists on classic beverages created by their mixologists - this offers a new look on the classic brunch. Saturdays from 12:00pm – 4:00pm, QR 130 with non-alcoholic beverages and QR 245 with selected beverages.

Call: 33598514

Who needs something fun and spicy on Tuesday nights? Hwang have a new Tuesday Asian Curry Night! Keep Calm and Curry On with their ALL NEW all you can eat Asian Curry Tuesday’s at Hwang. So don’t hesitate to cumin and try our curries from all over Asia. It’s QR 128, beverages excluded. From 6:00pm – 11:00pm.

Call: 4015 8888

Sheraton Grand Doha Resort & Convention Hotel

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Health Files jamie nelson

be a t the he a t

As the temperatures soar this month, Pallavi Patil gives us her best tips on essential skin care.

There are various skin care factors that you will need to consider in the summer season. During summer, you are going to be dealing with very high temperatures, which means you will need to keep your skin fresh and dewy. The body will tend to lose a lot of moisture during this season.

You will need to protect yourself from the sun’s rays and all this can be done with simple tips for smooth skin in summer.

Your skin can be affected by the changes in the climatic conditions, if you leave the matter careless. When it comes to skin care, it is important to know that different climates have different effects on your skin. This makes it clear that you should be flexible to change your skin care routine depending on the demands.

Whether you’re in store for a beautiful weekend or the forecast shows some clouds rolling in, you should protect your skin from the sun’s UV rays. Sunscreen filters out the sun’s dangerous, invisible ultraviolet (UV) rays, which can cause skin cancer. Research shows that daily low-grade exposure to sunlight can be just as damaging as short, intense exposure with sun protection. The proper application of sunscreen on a daily basis is as mandatory to skin health as proper cleansing.

This summer keep your makeup on the light side, allowing your skin to breathe and your natural beauty to shine through! Use a light moisturizer with SPF ingredients to hydrate your skin and protect it from the sun’s rays.

To help, here are some hints on the products you should own this summer and how to put them to use for hot weather traumas.

Though you should ease up on the amount of cosmetics you use in the summer, it doesn’t mean you need to skip makeup altogether. If you 96

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can’t bear the thought of going without makeup, use these fabulous beauty products to look beautiful and natural.

Use a little bronzer to get a healthy glow if you haven’t had any sun yet this season. Apply where the sun naturally hits your face - your forehead, nose, cheeks and chin. Use a very thin, fan-shaped brush to get light, subtle coverage. Skip the lipstick and choose a light lipgloss or tinted lip balm instead. Lip conditioners are a fantastic choice for summer, providing sun protection as well as a sexy hint of color and gloss. For those looking for a sun-kissed glow, we recommend substituting the pink blush for a mocha shade, and to lightly dust the make-up all over the face, especially the cheeks and nose.

Natural beauty begins with a smooth, shine-free, seemingly poreless canvas. Use 100% pure, mineral foundation powder to impart a featherlight, matte finish and even the skin tone. For a naturally radiant flush without tanning, use blush powder mixed with a radiance or bronzer. For a healthy, sun-kissed effect, add a touch to the eyelids and lips as well. For the lips, use pale, matte shades in nourishing, 100% pure creamy formulas to add the beautiful, finishing touch.

We can share a lot of tips on make-up and skin care but remember ladies, the key to a flawless healthy complexion is through complementing a nourishing diet with regular skin care regime.

A positive mindset will add a cherry on top!

Pallavi Patil is the Manager at the Spa by Clarins at Marsa Malaz Kempinski, The Pearl Doha. For more information on the spa call: 4035 5555

Kat Wu Beauty

Doha’s Private Havens

Take the heat off and indulge in one of these choice treatments.

Bodylines Fitness & Wellness Club at Oryx Rotana Doha Experience the new Argan Body Treatments, designed to smoothen and moisturise your skin and relax your body at the hands of our professional therapists. Bodylines offer a choice of Argan Body Treatments, Swedish Massage, Thai Massage (female only) or Balinese or Deep Tissue, Aroma and Reflexology, Back & Shoulder Massage and Indian Head massage.

Call: 4402 3333 Heavenly Spa, The Westin Doha Hotel & Spa Workout with Evolve at the Westin, in one of the five new scheduled classes!

Challenge yourself in the Boxercise and Raw to the Core courses in addition to getting your balance on in the Forrest

and Ashtanga Vinyasa Yoga sessions, or maybe time to try something new with Belly Dancing. Also, This summer, enjoy a 30 minutes complimentary facial when you book a 50 minute signature massage Call: 44921682 Bliss Spa, The W Doha Hotel & Residences Cool off with the Hydrafacial: This Resurfacing procedure thoroughly cares for your skin, providing cleansing, exfoliation, extraction, and hydration all while Vortex-Fusing® antioxidants, peptides, and hyaluronic acid. The HydraFacial™ is a non-invasive, nonsurgical procedure that delivers instant results with no discomfort or downtime.

The procedure is immediately effective.

Call: 4453 5555

Six Senses Spa Doha Get your dose of Essential Bliss which is a perfect cleansing treatment special for Ramadan. A detox treatment that includes a full body scrub and wrap is followed by a 50-minutes sports deep tissue massage. Afterwards you will feel rejuvenated and cleansed! For 80 minutes, it’s QR 700. Call: 4425 6999 The Spa by Clarins at Marsa Malaz Kempinski, The Pearl-Doha Fancy a bit of a golden touch? The Gold Hammam experience will leave you with a shimmer of happiness. Receive a complimentary skin analysis by your skilled therapist and enjoy a mini Clarins Facial experience. Walk out with a glow that no one will miss! It’s QR 700 which includes full access to all spa and wellness facilities.

Call: 40355555 www.ohlala-magazine.com

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Miss Ohlala

“Before you judge me, make sure you’re perfect” Miss Ohlala resolves to turn over a new leaf by only offering advice to friends when asked.

emma tempest

A lady recently approached me to tell me that babies suffocate in slings. That sort of interfering advice is always unwanted. Aside from the fact that I didn’t consider it to be any of her business, I have read relevant advice on baby wearing safety and taken what I consider to be an informed decision to wear my baby in a sling. Unfortunately, it seems that from the moment you have a pregnancy bump, strangers will feel compelled to question your parenting skills and foist their opinions on you.

A friend of mine was recently scathing of parents who brought a lunchbox for their toddler to a BBQ. It occurred to me afterwards that perhaps the toddler has a gluten or other allergy. She might even have a pathological fear of BBQ food. I know I shudder at the thought of cremated sausages which are common in BBQ season. Whatever the reason, I know it was not appropriate for us to judge the parents, especially without full knowledge of the circumstances.

As a result, I’ve resolved to try to only offer advice to friends when asked, and to be less judgmental generally.

I’m less than a week into my new resolution and have already struggled to refrain from giving unsolicited advice on numerous occasions. My first instinct upon hearing of someone’s difficulties is always to launch in and offer what I consider to be helpful solutions with the genuine aim of assisting others. I’ve come to realise that this approach can be patronising and annoying.

When a close friend whatsapped me this week regarding a personal family matter, I forced myself to take a step back and realised that she is fully aware of the potential actions she could take and the merits of each, but what she needs from me is an outlet to rant. My role should be to listen and sympathise rather than assume the role of agony aunt. This resolution is proving much harder to keep than I anticipated! Food for thought.

I don’t take criticism well. Having recently received some unwanted and unsolicited advice from a family member that was hard to swallow, I am live to the fact that unwelcome advice can be very annoying and hurtful – especially when it feels more like criticism than help. In fact, “hard to swallow” is an understatement. On this particular occasion, I stormed out of the house in a fit of anger, took hours to calm down and swore never to forgive or forget such unsolicited comments.

Getting unwelcome input from people you don›t know is plain annoying. Receiving the same remarks from close friends or family can feel mortally wounding. When there is something bothering you and you reach out to friends or loved ones for consolation, the last thing you need is a barrage of advice that leaves you feeling worse than before.

We live in a very judgmental world. I know I am guilty of making snap judgments, particularly when it relates to parenting. And that’s not something I am proud of. Unless you are living a person’s life, you don’t know what decision is appropriate for them to take in any given scenario.

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HARMONY MASSAGE Experience the benefits of the Harmony massage, an oil massage done simultaneously by two therapists, performing harmonic movements that accentuate the feeling of relaxation and wellbeing.

Offer available until August 31st, 2017 The St. Regis Doha | Mezzanine Level Open from 9am to 10pm For more information or reservation please contact +974 4446 0300 or email remedespa.doha@stregis.com www.remedespadoha.com

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