Ohlala Qatar February 2023

Island Paradise

Island Paradise

A Holiday in the Maldives

A Holiday in the Maldives

Lavish Jewels

Lavish Jewels

A Series of Incredible Gems

A Series of Incredible Gems

BEAUTÉS DU

MONDE

BEAUTÉS DU

MONDE

Cartier’s High Jewellery

Cartier’s High Jewellery

Collection Inspired by the Beauty of the World

Collection Inspired by the Beauty of the World

THE ART OF FUSION

BIG BANG INTEGRATED

18K King Gold case with integrated bracelet. In-house UNICO chronograph movement.

Editor’s Letter

The month of love is upon us, and even if you are not a romantic person (I am undoubtedly faulty in this area), it is impossible to obliviate Valentine’s Day. Shops and restaurants get decorated with hearts and special offers are everywhere. We bring a selection of love-inspired pages, from jewellery collections and fashion pieces to places to dine with your significant other and the importance of non-romantic love in our lives. This month, we have a special collaboration with Cartier to present the brand’s Beautés Du Monde High Jewellery collection – starring the gorgeous Iranian-French actress Golshifteh Farahani. The pieces are an ode to beauty and impeccable craftsmanship.

The Doha Jewellery & Watches Exhibition 2023 is happening this month, bringing the most reputable international brands and regional names under the same roof to celebrate the jewellery and watches universe. We selected some fascinating collections from some of the biggest names in the field to share with you. Our OHLALA Spa & Wellness Awards Qatar 2022 announced its winners and we celebrated them at a stylish party at Nammos Qatar. You will find in this issue the complete winners’ list and coverage of the exciting event.

The Homes section is all about bathroom trends, but if you are looking to get away from yours, we bring a glimpse of Fairmont Doha, check it out for an ultimate staycation. However, if you want a romantic escape, Kandima Maldives might be the place to go. We spent four days at this island paradise and highlight the best things to do there.

In our dining experience, we tried the Tomahawk Tuesdays at New York Steakhouse at Marriott Marquis City Center Doha Hotel, a must-try if you are an enthusiastic carnivore.

Lots of Love,

Fernanda Langhammer Editor-in-Chief

JACQUIE AICHE

An Exquisite Island Getaway

Perched majestically in the heart of Porto Arabia, The St. Regis Marsa Arabia Island offers a private sanctuary, where a glamorous and residential lifestyle awaits. An All-Suite hotel, with 193 lavishly decorated hotel suites, 9 World Renowned Dining outlets, A state of the art gym, 8 swimming pools, 8 cabanas, a 1 km jogging track around the perimeter of the island, the first Longevity Hub by Clinique La Prairie and complimentary access to the St. Regis Doha beach facilities.

The St. Regis Marsa Arabia Island is the address where exquisite experiences, timeless rituals and sophisticated settings come together offering a glamorous lifestyle that combines the best of comfort and luxury.

Moschino went grand with this long and cushioned coat. The item is a perfect pick for the cold weather and a dramatic way to enter any room.

A pair of classic pumps is essential in every woman’s shoe collection. Gianvito Rossi painted them in vivid red to give a killer touch to your look.

PASSION FOR FASHION

Historically, red has been considered the colour of energy, passion and sacrifice – Ancient Roman brides used to wear a red shawl. Nowadays, some designers, such as Valentino, can’t go one season without a statement red outfit in their collections. Here is our tribute to this vibrant hue.

Sometimes, simplicity is the best way to go. A plain red dress is a smart way to add some variation to your usual black attire. Ralph Lauren created an easy-to-wear option with a cute sleeve detail.

How to finish your look in a super stylish way? With a red velvet suit jacket. MAX&Co.’s corduroy blazer will tick all the boxes and leave you as warm as you could possibly want.

If you like bold with a touch of rebellion, this iconic four-ring clutch from Alexander McQueen will be the right addition to your outfit.

STYLE Trends

READY FOR ROMANCE

Bows and hearts help you get into Valentine’s mode. Celebrate the month of love with looks covered in these symbols that will remind you feelings such as passion, devotion and tenderness are definitely in the air.

CECILIE BAHNSEN

CHOPARD

MISSONI

CELINE

JIMMY CHOO AT FARFETCH

STYLE Trends

HAPPY HOUR

The cocktail dress is the outfit that best represents the marriage between casual daytime wear and fancy evening looks. They are short or just above the knee and a go-to staple in many girls’ wardrobes – add some cute accessories and let the party begin!

MAX MARA STUDIO

CELINE

MICHAEL KORS COLLECTION

MISSONI

CH CAROLINA HERRERA

MOSCHINO

GIANVITO ROSSI

AZZI & OSTA

DAVID YURMAN AT FARFETCH

ESCAPE TO SERENITY, EVERY WEEKEND

Leave behind the busyness of the week and indulge in the peace and tranquility of Katara Hills Doha. Surround yourself amongst lush nature, unwind in serenity, indulge in culinary cuisine and luxury like no other at Katara Hills. Just one's throw from Doha's art and culture district, this boutique resort features 15 Scandinavia-inspired villas each with their own private pool, signature wellness spa, a Michelin-star sister restaurant and panoramic views across rolling green hills and glistening Arabia Sea.

Villa Rates starting from 6,860 QAR for two adults

OFFER INCLUDES:

Breakfast for 2 (One Bedroom Villa) or 4 (Two Bedroom Villa)

Dinner for 2 (One Bedroom Villa) or 4 (Two Bedroom Villa)

Spa treatment for 2 (One Bedroom Villa) or 4 (Two Bedroom Villa)

Book between 1st of February and 31st of March 2023

Stay any weekend between 2nd of February and 15th of April 2023

STYLE Trends

MODERN WARRIOR

There is a saying that not all heroes wear capes; however, wearing outfits that make you look fierce and fabulous will help you fight the day in style. Leather and faux leather are the top picks when putting together a ‘bad girl’ kind of look.

AZZI & OSTA

CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN

CH CAROLINA HERRERA

JOHANNA ORTIZ

STELLA MCCARTNEY

MISSONI

MAX MARA

the STORY BEGINS

Nestled by the coast of Lusail sits the splendor of Raffles and Fairmont Doha, where luxury is rooted in even the smallest details. Open the doors to mesmerizing hospitality and make memories in a world of sophistication.

raffles.com/doha | fairmont.com/doha

CHROMA CAST

Colour-blocking is a timeless trend. The style can be composed by combining two, to a maximum of four, shades or tones and balancing the look. You can go for pieces with solid colours placed together or create the effect with separates.

CH CAROLINA HERRERA

GARCIA

STELLA MCCARTNEY

CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN

ISABEL MARANT ETOILE

WHAT TO WEAR WITH:

FUNKY PRINTS

deal with every day, so why not choose fun clothing pieces here and there? Tory Burch’s jelly-printed top is a good start!

1. Moschino is the epitome of fun fashion. Every season the brand brings funky pieces to the runway. If you think they are a bit too much of a total look, opt for one item to add a bit of happiness to your outfits.

2. Break the funkiness with a plain pair of denim pants. These are from Isabel Marant Etoile’s winter collection.

3. A pair of black shoes helps keep the look less flashy if you prefer a toned-down level of fun dressing. These structured boots are from Celine

4. If you want to add accessories, keep them minimal. This Akillis necklace is the perfect detail to add an interesting focal point without stealing the scene.

5. Still on a subtle level, but a bit more out there, choose a handbag in one of the colours in your printed top. This red CH Carolina Herrera item will add some pizzazz while keeping the look sophisticated.

6. To prove that some fun is suitable for any occasion, Julia Roberts picked a floor-length dress from Alexander McQueen that she complemented with a cute mini tuxedo jacket. Playfulness and elegance can hold hands – when done right.

Our news round-up this month brings interesting highlights –from fashion and jewellery collaborations and virtual experiences to artistic packaging and an innovative beauty product.

Hospitality Meets Fashion

The tropical paradise One&Only Reethi Rah in the Maldives has added Missoni’s prints and artistic energy to its island. The Italian fashion brand has placed a pop-up store and customisations across the property. On the beach, the distinctive Missoni pattern takes over the Beach Club adorning parasols, loungers, cabanas, beach towels and the DJ booth. Missoni’s spontaneous style is distinguished through various furnishing items, tapestries and fabrics used to personalise the resort’s sandy exteriors, its treehouse, the Grand Residence and Grand Sunset Residence, and a limited number of Grand Water Villas.

One&Only Reethi Rah is part of the Missoni Resort Club project led by Alberto Caliri, Creative Director of the Missoni Home Collection. The project sets out to promote Missoni’s lifestyle philosophy worldwide.

Virtual Reality Experience

One of the oldest Haute Horlogerie manufacturers, Audemars Piguet, has joined forces with Dreamscape Immersive, a virtual reality content creator, to develop a digital experience for its fans. Entitled The Clockwork Forest, it transports participants into a forest inspired by the Vallée de Joux, the birthplace of Audemars Piguet. Becoming the heroes of this magical world through the avatars they have chosen, travellers equipped with VR headsets and motion sensors are given the mission of restoring the course of time before the irreversible disruption of nature occurs. This adventure was inaugurated in the futuristic setting of the Manufacture des Saignoles in Le Locle, Switzerland, where it was only available for customers and visitors. Now, this highly anticipated experience will be open to the general public at Dreamscape’s Geneva location from the beginning of March until the end of April; participants must make a reservation. Watch out for tickets at www.dreamscapegeneva.com

Ethical Jewels

Etika Jewels is a sustainable online jewellery retailer in the Middle East that is now offering carbon-free diamonds. The pieces are an exclusive collaboration with Diamond Foundry, a California-based, innovative lab-grown diamond manufacturer. The partnership will expand Etika Jewels’ offerings to include carbon-neutral, lab-grown diamonds in addition to their existing ethical lab-grown diamond collection. The collaboration with Diamond Foundry enables Etika Jewels to provide sustainable lab-grown diamonds made using renewable energy. The Diamond Foundry uses cutting-edge proprietary technology to grow diamonds in laboratories with zero carbon emissions thanks to a hydropower-led process. Being ethically and sustainably produced in the USA, these diamonds represent the future of responsible luxury with zero carbon footprint attached.

Scented Art

A partnership between Guerlain and Matisse, two French houses emblematic in the country’s cultural and artistic heritage, is set to make 2023 the year of Matisse at Guerlain. Two colourful designs by Maison Matisse are featured on a limited-edition Maison Matisse Bee Bottle for Exceptional Creations and across new pieces of the L’Art & La Matière collection. To celebrate the 170th anniversary of the Bee Bottle, a new release in the Exceptional Creations collection will feature a design inspired by The Music, one of Matisse’s most renowned paintings. The coloured motifs will adorn 14 unique bottles. Meanwhile, for the L’Art & La Matière collection, hearts, jasmine blossoms and leaves come together alongside an exclusive olfactory masterpiece. The new Jasmin Bonheur fragrance was inspired by the 1950 artwork, The Thousand and One Nights, and so were its lid and box. The vibrant design of the perfume’s packaging is also echoed in an edition of the Figue Azur candle.

Make-up For All

Lancôme has unveiled HAPTA, a handheld computerised make-up applicator designed for users with limited hand and arm mobility to make beauty accessible for all. As Lancôme’s first motion-stabilising make-up device, HAPTA works with every move to help customers overcome hand-motion challenges so that applying lipstick becomes simpler. Its adaptive strap and innovative self-levelling technology allow for more precise application. The self-levelling technology is embedded with real-time sensors for a full range of motion and steady application. HAPTA will later be enhanced with new robotic features to also work for mascara application and it will then be further extended to other beauty products. “HAPTA’s revolutionary technology has the power to help many people to use and apply beauty products to make them feel confident and self-fulfilled,” said Paul Tartrat, Lancôme Innovation & Beauty Tech Director.

THE BEAUTY OF THE WORLD

Cartier recognises beauty, wherever it may be. The Beautés Du Monde collection illustrates the brand’s ability to admire and enhance original beauty through impeccable design.

Beautés Du Monde is part of Cartier’s High Jewellery Collection, and the interplay of stones amplifies the elements of nature and different cultures from which it is inspired. It captures beauty by looking at it through a spectrum of colours, shapes and evocative materials. The intricate work and the unique design of these spectacular elements reflected in these pieces are traces of this luxurious brand. We present a selection of stunning necklaces found in the collection.

APATURA

The Apatura necklace was born after close examination of butterfly wings. To recreate the iridescent effect, opal with its rainbow nuances, was the chosen material to convey the wings’ vivacity and brilliance. Three Australian opals weighing 22.08 carats are framed by geometrical motifs composed of diamond bars and blue sapphire beads whose colour echoes the opal’s fire. Crafted in Cartier’s tradition of transformable jewellery, this necklace doubles its stylistic effects. It can be worn with or without its pendant, which can also be detached and worn as a brooch.

IWANA

The green iguana inspired the maison’s design studio to create this set. A necklace abundant with diamonds and Colombian emeralds, weighing 43.45 carats, creates the lizard’s skin texture and dimension. Everything is based on the suppleness and subtle sinuosity of the setting, which evokes the shifts and motion of the animal’s skin. Emblematic of Cartier’s expertise and style, the four-sided cut is shaped to be reminiscent of the animal’s dorsal spines.

WATER ASPIS

This piece portrays a powerful and hypnotic snake that is even more beautiful, featuring incredible flexibility in this new interpretation. An expression of Cartier style, this snake mixes important references to the maison, an encounter of realism, stylisation and abstraction. Five spectacular 43.49-carat Ceylon sapphire cabochons punctuate the body of the necklace with an intense blue.

RITUEL

Cartier pays tribute to traditional Mesoamerican jewellery with the Rituel set. Composed of a double row of azure chalcedony beads, the necklace unfolds to showcase an iridescent constellation of rubies. The piece relies on the effects of symmetry and parallelism, which gives rhythm to the composition. The contrast is strong and bold, mixing pink and blue, two soft and joyful colours whose contours Cartier surrounds with the intense black of onyx.

RECIF

The marine ecosystem served as the inspiration to create this necklace that celebrates the beauty of coral reefs. Cartier plays with contrast when combining the orange of the coral and the green of the emerald – a collection of beads placed along a diamond atoll. This luscious composition of stones cut into ribbed beads and studded with emerald or amethyst cabochons is unmistakably the maison’s style. Cartier’s expertise is outstanding – the placement of the elements does not impede the wearer’s comfort. It is all about proportion and balance.

For The LOVE of BLING

The Doha Jewellery & Watches Exhibition (DJWE) is back this month with its usual line-up of incredible and jaw-dropping jewellery and watches.

The DJWE is an ode to gems and timepieces from the world’s most famous and reputed international brands, as well as a selection of established regional names and homegrown Qatari designers. The exhibition will take place from February 20 to 25 at the Doha Exhibition and Convention Centre (DECC).

Now in its 19th edition, the exposition is organised by Qatar Tourism (QT) and Qatar Business Events Corporation (QBEC), under the patronage of HE Sheikh Khalid bin Khalifa bin Abdulaziz Al Thani, Prime Minister and Minister of Interior. More than 30,000 visitors from over 175 countries are expected to attend the expo this year.

The DJWE is recognised as a global platform for luxury products –attracting more than 500 leading international watch and jewellery brands such as DeBeers, Chanel, Rolex, Patek Philippe, Hublot, Louis Vuitton, Cartier, Bulgari and more. The much-anticipated annual event brings together aficionados of luxurious items in a unique exhibition of exclusive and exquisite craftsmanship, giving visitors the opportunity to explore the latest trends in the field. With nearly two decades of being the epitome of luxury and elegance in Qatar, the showcase is set to feature luxury watches, necklaces, rings, earrings, diamonds, gold and silverware and much more.

For more information, please access www.visitqatar.com @visitqatar

Colourful BRILLIANCE

Garrard offers a blazing collection of jewels that ignites a riot of colour and is the perfect Valentine’s gift.

British luxury designer House of Garrard has a bold fine jewellery collection named Blaze – designed to ignite a riot of colour and set the world alight. The creations are the eyecatching element to add a touch of uniqueness to daring ladies’ looks. A great Valentine’s present for fearless and confident women. The Blaze campaign stars British actress Olivia Cooke as Garrard’s brand ambassador. Blaze is an interpretation of Garrard’s iconic 1735 collection and has been inspired by Princess Diana’s engagement ring, which Catherine, Princess of Wales, now wears.

Founded in 1735 in London’s West End by master silversmith George Wicks, Garrard received its first royal commission from Frederick, Prince of Wales, in the same year. Appointed the first official Crown Jeweller in 1843, the brand has proudly played a part in British history ever since, creating jewels that have captured imaginations throughout the world. An inspired interpretation of the 1735 collection, the Blaze collection masterfully inverts the classical Garrard cluster motif. The collection showcases several eclectic combinations of faceted and cabochon gemstones combined in an electrifying synergy of colour and texture. Colourful gemstones are spotlighted throughout the set, from blue sapphire and green tourmaline to mother-of-pearl and pink opal in various sizes and shapes. They are set exquisitely amongst diamonds in contemporary designs that include cocktail rings, pendants, hoop earrings, ear jackets, band rings, bracelets and necklaces. Choose your favourite colour and embellish your elegant look. The standout pieces include a Blaze blue sapphire, tanzanite, aquamarine, blue topaz and turquoise cocktail ring. A set of Blaze white diamond, white opal, white agate and white mother-of-pearl ear jackets. A beautiful Blaze green sapphire, green tourmaline, tsavorite and chrysoprase pendant, and a set of Blaze pink sapphire, rubellite and pink opal hoop earrings.

For more information on Garrard collections, please call Ali Bin Ali Watches & Jewellery at Doha Festival City 4444 0399, Galeries Lafayette 4447 3542 and Mall of Qatar 4444 0288.

www.alibinali.com

@garrard

@alibinali_luxury

KALEIDOSCOPE DREAM

Patek Philippe unveils its first ladies’ self-winding chronograph with captivating gemstones.

Swiss luxury watchmaker Patek Philippe, as a testament to its rich tradition and craftsmanship, has extended its feminine line with the first ladies’ timepiece featuring a self-winding chronograph movement – the Aquanaut Luce “Rainbow”. Since its launch in 2004, the contemporary casual chic Aquanaut Luce collection has successfully wooed women who appreciate a unique style and elegance for any occasion. The Aquanaut Luce “Rainbow” chronograph comes in an 18-carat rose gold case and features an octagonal bezel that has been adorned with two rows of baguette-cut gems that have been mounted with an invisible setting technique using metal rails. The inner row consists of 40 flawless rare white Top Wesselton diamonds, while the outer row, which is slightly angled, sports 40 sapphires in the colours of the rainbow, each carefully hand-picked to form a perfect gradient. The case has a diameter of 39.9mm.

The dial is mother-of-pearl engraved with the signature Aquanaut motif and features Applied Arabic numerals in 18-carat rose gold hour markers set with baguette-cut sapphires in a gradient that matches the bezel. Luminous baton hands in rose gold make the hours and minutes quickly and easily legible.

The two chronograph pushers are manually polished and satinfinished by the manufacturer’s artisans. In full compliance with the directives of the Patek Philippe Seal, the calibre CH 28-520 movement is also elaborately finished and can be admired through the sapphire crystal case back.

The Aquanaut Luce “Rainbow” combines spirited sporty looks and the jeweller’s exceptional watchmaking skills. The timepiece is available in three ultra-resistant composite straps elegantly coloured in red, matte beige and matte white.

@patekphilippe @almajedjw

YOUR MAJESTY

The French jewellery house Boucheron has found inspiration in British Royalty to create its Historie de Style, Like a Queen collection.

Some jewellery pieces are just so iconic that they become an inspiration for new designs. Boucheron’s new Historie de Style, Like a Queen High Jewellery collection reinterprets one of the late Queen Elizabeth II’s beloved pieces. When the then Princess Elizabeth turned 18 in 1944, she received a Boucheron aquamarine and diamond double-clip brooch. A sentimental item that she wore throughout her reign. This unique article inspired Claire Choisne, the maison’s Creative Director, to design 18 contemporary new jewels – she started working on the collection in 2020.

The designer wanted to work with this particular Art Deco jewel to create an up-to-date collection suitable for all genres. “Being able to wear a piece in a number of ways, as well as the use of colour, were central to our work on this collection so that both men and women may wear these pieces,” said Claire. A cherry ruby necklace, a pink tourmaline brooch, an azure aquamarine cuff bracelet, earrings adorned with lush emeralds, and more. Histoire de Style, Like a Queen, stands out with its monochrome plays on joyful, intense colours, inspired by the spirit of the bright outfits Queen Elizabeth famously wore throughout her public life. Like a story told through 18 chapters, the collection transcends its initial objective – to construct a full High Jewellery collection inspired by a single piece – and offers a glimpse into royalty.

For more information, please visit the boutique at Lagoona Mall or call 4422 5536.

@boucheron

@51_east

LET LOVE SHINE

The House of Chopard offers elegant jewellery and a timepiece that personifies the euphoria of love.

In this special month, Chopard puts forth a selection of jewellery along with a timepiece from different collections that are symbolic representations of an array of feelings, such as love and freedom, with a regal elegance to compose captivating looks.

THE HEART, A MESSENGER OF LOVE

The brand’s Haute Joaillerie workshops have produced two magnificent creations inspired by this symbol and the creativity of Co-President and Artistic Director Caroline Scheufele. The first is an emblematic sapphire and diamond necklace resembling a dainty ribbon outlining a heart. The 75 pearshaped sapphires composing the heart and chain have been meticulously selected for their colours to form a luminous and soothing rainbow gradient. The unique sapphires are surrounded by a hem of brilliant-cut diamonds subtly accentuating the rounded end of each stone. The necklace is made in Fairmined-certified ethical rose gold and is delicately open-worked to allow the light to flood through the gems, thus enhancing their colour and radiance. The second is a flamboyant ring, based around a ruby which is the stone of love and passion. The ruby is an 18-carat vivid red heart-shaped gem set in the centre of a Fairmined-certified ethical white gold ring, nestled between two heart-shaped diamonds.

HAPPY HEARTS WINGS

The butterfly, an emblem of freedom and lightness, has infused all its delicacy and symbolic strength into the Happy Hearts Wings collection. The butterfly’s free and daintily airy spirit is embodied by the women who wear it through the exquisitely refined expression in the design of this collection. The set includes a necklace, bracelet, bangle, earrings and a ring crafted from ethical 18-carat rose gold and combines dancing diamonds and hearts arranged like butterfly wings.

IMPERIALE

Inspired by the nobility and beauty of the world’s great empires, the Imperiale collection has become a central element in Chopard’s watchmaking repertoire. Synonymous with femininity, the collection has been enriched with a 29mm-diameter timepiece in stainless steel and ethical 18-carat rose gold that frames a red dial adorned with the collection’s emblematic motif and paired with a matching leather strap. Beating to the rhythm of the Chopard 09.01-C self-winding movement, this opulent timepiece is a regal statement on the wrists of elegant women. The timepiece showcases Chopard’s dual expertise as a jeweller and watchmaker, symbolising the encounter between glamour and precision.

@chopard @alfardanjewellery

Picks

Hair EXPRESS

If you want luscious hair, just like Rapunzel, it’s time to take care of your tresses. We’ve selected a few products that will help you in this task.

A Symbol of ETERNAL BEAUTY

Many beauty brands look at nature to create their products and Guerlain is the latest to embrace natural shades in the Red Orchid collection. A unique palette for the lips, eyes and complexion that pays tribute to this resilient flower. For almost 20 years, Guerlain has forged a special relationship with the orchid, which embodies eternal beauty and has been the centre of exceptional skincare formulas. However, for the first time, Guerlain has taken inspiration from the colours of this stunning plant to create a makeup collection – a fresh and sensual composition, like petals in bloom. Above all, Red Orchid is an ode to the colour red, its power and endless hues. “I imagined a range of red tones to celebrate the colours of the orchid, this highly symbolic flower beloved by the House of Guerlain,” says Violette, Guerlain Make-up Creative Director.

VIVID LIPS

Three varieties of red orchids have inspired the new trio of ROUGE G shades with three different finishes. Red Vanda comes with a velvet matte finish in striking red for voluptuous and graphic lips. Red Ballerina has a satin finish in pinky red hues evoking the silky skirt of a ballerina for sensual lips. And Red Fire Star with a velvet metal metallic finish is an orangy shade, a new vibrant red brick tone.

VIBRANT EYES

For this Red Orchid collection, Violette has imagined a harmony of four eyeshadows, which reveals its bold colours through two different finishes. A burgundy red and soft pink in a satin finish, which plays with the light, and a coppery red and a metallic version of the luminous golden eyeshadow to enhance the eyes with intense shades and subtle sparkle.

LUMINOUS COMPLEXION

To complete the Red Orchid look, the iconic Parure Gold Cushion revisits its best-selling Beige 00N shade encased in a golden container celebrating the Red Vanda orchid on top. Infused with 24-carat gold and pearls, this precious formula illuminates the skin with radiance – a lustrous matte finish for a delicately enhanced complexion. @guerlain

Embrace the power and grace of orchids in your make-up with Guerlain’s new Red Orchid collection.

EVERY LAYOVER IS AN OPPORTUNITY TO EXPLORE THIS BEAUTIFUL CITY

Free touristanbul service in Istanbul for international transfer passengers who have 6-24 hours of layover time at Istanbul Airport

HEAL YOUR HAIR

Our hair goes through so much each day, with natural elements and artificial styling and heating taking their toll. Melissa Nazareth lists some soothing hair care practices to repair and nourish your mane.

Hair colour, treatments and styling are such an integral part of our daily life. Sometimes, it’s unavoidable because you may have a major family event or even a work meeting – one’s got to look presentable! Additionally, natural aggressors such as strong sunlight can cause damage. Further, many of us unknowingly follow harmful practices such as sleeping with wet hair, using low-quality products or regular teasing and backcombing. In the long run, the cumulative effect of these factors shows; your hair may get frizzy, break easily or you may experience acute hair fall. While you can’t reverse the damage overnight, these hair care habits will restore balance over time.

HAIR SPA AT HOME

It’s important to follow a consistent hair care routine. As a rule, oil your hair at least once a week. While coconut oil is considered one of the best, other options you could explore include almond, onion seed, argan and herbal. However, ensure they’re organic and not commercialised, chemical-based products. Wash your hair regularly, but don’t overdo it. Generally, about twice or three times a week for normal hair is ideal. Your dermatologist can guide you, depending on your hair and scalp type. When you wash your hair, scrub gently, so you don’t damage your roots; don’t scrub the hair shaft or length of your hair. The foam that’s produced will automatically cleanse it. Conditioning your hair is an important step. If you have dry hair, a leave-in conditioner is a good complement; the difference is you don’t rinse out the latter, locking in moisture and nutrients. It’s best to air dry your hair but if you must use hot tools, never forget the heat protectant. Using hair masks once or twice a week is a great solution for those who require deeper conditioning and hydration. Invest in sunscreen for your hair and scalp – you need it in winter too.

TOOL TALK

Daily use of brushes and combs, hair towels and styling and hot tools greatly influences your hair’s condition. Natural wooden or bamboo brushes and combs massage and stimulate your scalp, increasing blood flow and sebum production. Further, they cause the least damage and breakage; use a bristle size suited to the thickness of your hair. Always use a wide-toothed comb to get rid of knots or evenly distribute conditioner in the shower; detangling brushes are an alternative for knots. Invest in premium quality hot tools such as straighteners and curlers, and avoid very high temperatures – no more than 200 degrees Celsius. Wherever possible, switch to heatless styling; curling headbands have revolutionised the lives of many. Infusion hoods use indirect, low heat; they are like collapsible head gear that you fasten by pulling the strings. Insert the nozzle of your dryer in the opening and continue until your hairstyle is set.

PRODUCT PARADE

It’s very important to use the correct products, depending on your scalp type – dry, balanced or oily – and hair type – straight, wavy, curly or coily. While it’s always a good idea to check with your dermatologist, generally, moisturising shampoos and conditioners work best for a dry scalp and cleansing and volumising ones work best for an oily scalp. When your scalp is oily, your hair tends to be limp. If you have a combination, for instance, an oily scalp or roots but dry, damaged ends, use a cleansing shampoo for your roots and a nourishing, moisturising shampoo for your ends. Those with curly hair can invest in sulphate-free products as they do the job without stripping away the natural oils in the hair. If you have coloured hair, colour-safe products will not only nourish your hair, ensuring minimum damage, but also prevent the colour from fading. Serums and anti-frizz products will help you tame your mane. There are products available in the market for specific hair types, such as shampoos and conditioners for straight hair and styling products such as curl activators.

For more information, please visit www.thehairaddict.net and www.tangleteezer.com

ELEVATE YOUR WELL-BEING

High above the hustle and bustle of city life, Amica Sicilia finds an urban sanctuary dedicated to personalised wellness in Lamara Spa at InterContinental Doha - The City.

The centre of Doha’s West Bay is a skyscraping forest of sleek glass and steel. Life there is fast and focussed. But every now and then, even the busiest of us needs to be able to press pause, to rise above the rush for a moment. And one way of doing just that sits high above the heart of the urban jungle itself. The InterContinental Doha - The City looks over the centre of West Bay in one of the tallest towers in Qatar. Right at the top, on the 46th floor, is Lamara Spa. Its entrance promises peace and rest with décor of soft blue velvet and pale golden wood panelling. The stylish changing rooms are micro-tiled in black, cream and gold, leading to the ladies-only steam room, sauna and Hammam suites. Among these sheltered spaces, you can easily forget you are actually among the clouds. But when we arrive at the swimming pool, I gasp. An open-air pool beneath a cleverly designed roof reveal one of the most spectacular views anywhere in Doha, with plentiful natural light and fresh breezes during the day, followed by an unmissable sunset. I let out an audible sigh as I settle into an armchair to fill in my personalised therapy plan. Lamara Spa uses only Anne Semonin products, a bespoke Parisian luxury range with

more than 30 years’ pedigree. My skin is quite sensitive, so my wonderful therapist Manu advises blending my treatments with soothing compounds and extracts. My Lamara Spa experience happens in the personalised setting of one of their private treatment rooms. I slip off my workwear, recline on the dark red towels and close my eyes, as Manu bathes my feet with hot towels: relaxation time has officially begun. First things first, a deeply cleansing mineral body polish. I choose an energising and toning combination of ginger and vitamin E oils blended with the natural sea salt scrub. Manu expertly uses the crystals to buff in circles, gently exfoliating to a pearly smoothness, which is revealed as hot water then washes away the salts leaving my skin glowing. Once dry and warm, Manu’s practised hands get to work with the second phase of the massage. We’ve chosen the Detoxifying Body Oil, which both purifies and hydrates with its rich system of antioxidants and replenishment of vital lipids. I’ve asked Manu to focus particularly on my shoulders, neck and upper back, where I hold the most tension from my desk-bound days. She warms and works the sweet almond and avocado oil into my joints as the air fills with uplifting scents of lemongrass and peppermint.

Having banished stress and tension, Manu starts the deeper work: a three-stage anti-cellulite combination treatment expertly developed to banish uneven and dimpled skin. First she applies an advanced Lipoliss Intense Firming Body Serum all over the body, followed by the Lipoliss Intense Anti-Cellulite Gel. Their active ingredients include sweet almond and soya proteins, remineralising brown and green algae and superstar ingredient hyaluronic acid. Manu explains this power couple work together to actively reduce the formation and appearance of adipocytes (fat cells), while caffeine and energising essential oils of grapefruit and rosemary don’t just smell divine but also help slimming and circulation.

But the truly magic element here is something else: cold. Fiercely cold. Cryotherapy massage balls, straight from the deep freeze to kickstart cell activation, shocking the immune system into action. It’s my first time under the ice, so to speak, but Manu is reassuring and gentle. The massage balls are cold but silky smooth, gliding around every contour, and strangely filling my body with warmth. It’s only at this point that Manu gets tough, because for really effective smoothing

you need really firm, deep-tissue massage, just on the edge of painful, to get real results.

After these trials, it’s time to rest again, as Manu applies a thick firming green algae body mask to my legs, wrapping them in cellophane to seal in the action, before turning to my facial. A light Botanical Milk Cleanser with hazelnut oil and marine algae followed by rebalancing witch-hazel Botanical Toner remove all traces of make-up and pollutants. Then it’s time for Anne Semonin’s signature Soothing Intensive Complex, a pair of essences which activate when combined, blending sesame, sage and lemon vascular toning with seaweed, aloe and brown algae for an intensely anti-inflammatory effect. The feeling is deeply restful, as Manu smooths the frown from my forehead, circling my temples and running along my jawline, before locking in the goodness with a jojoba, shea and mimosa firming Cream Mask.

Anne Semonin’s Express Radiance Ice Cubes are legendary, winner of the 2022 Nouvelles Esthétiques Prix Innovation. A bio-stimulating cocktail of botanicals including red seaweed, wild indigo, gingko biloba and hyaluronic acid is blended in

marine spring water and frozen. These cubes are then used to create active cryo-pressure points, which Manu glides over my face, neck and décolleté to instantly improve elasticity and illuminate. The finishing touches are a few drops of Super Active Serum with collagen-promoting myrrh and oenethera, sealed in with Extreme Comfort Cream with macadamia and softening beeswax.

From head to toe this is a highly expert, highly personalised rejuvenation experience. I take my time changing back into my city clothes. But facing the hustle feels that bit easier knowing this urban sanctuary exists, next time I need to escape the world below.

For more information or to book an appointment, please call Lamara Spa at InterContinental Doha - The City on 4015 8888 and 3098 3103.

@icdohathecity

OHLALA Awards

With immense pleasure, we announce the winners of the OHLALA Spa & Wellness Awards Qatar 2022. We reveal the best of the best across the industry in the country in the most fashionable way.

There are two awards in each category, the BEST were picked by our specialised panel and an online vote has decided the FAVOURITE Celebrate them with us!

WINNER

BEST SIGNATURE TREATMENT IN QATAR 2022

SIGNATURE TREATMENT

SALWA SIGNATURE SENSATION

ORIENTAL AT EFOREA SPA –HILTON SALWA BEACH RESORT & VILLAS

WINNER

FAVOURITE SIGNATURE TREATMENT IN QATAR 2022

DATE WRAP AT THE RITZ-CARLTON SPA SHARQ VILLAGE –THE RITZ-CARLTON SHARQ VILLAGE, DOHA

WINNER

BEST FACIAL TREATMENT IN QATAR 2022

CLARITY FACIAL BY INTRACEUTICALS AT SPA

INTERCONTINENTAL –INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA BEACH & SPA

WINNER

FAVOURITE FACIAL TREATMENT IN QATAR 2022

BRIGHTEN AND GLOW AT GOCO

SPA – STEIGENBERGER HOTEL, DOHA

WINNER

BEST COUPLES’ TREATMENT IN QATAR 2022

ESPA – MONDRIAN DOHA

WINNER

FAVOURITE COUPLES’ TREATMENT IN QATAR 2022

QUAN SPA – JW MARRIOTT

MARQUIS CITY CENTER DOHA

WINNER

BEST SPA PRODUCTS IN QATAR 2022

BANYAN TREE AT BANYAN TREE DOHA SPA – BANYAN TREE DOHA

WINNER

FAVOURITE SPA PRODUCTS IN QATAR 2021

CLARINS DOUBLE SERUM BY CLARINS AT SPA BY CLARINS –MARSA MALAZ KEMPINSKI, THE PEARL - DOHA

WINNER

BEST HAMMAM EXPERIENCE IN QATAR 2022

ANANTARA SPA – BANANA ISLAND RESORT DOHA BY ANANTARA

WINNER

FAVOURITE HAMMAM EXPERIENCE IN QATAR 2022

ESPA – MONDRIAN DOHA

WINNER

BEST BODY RESHAPING & WEIGHT LOSS PROGRAMME IN QATAR 2022

BODY RESHAPE – BIOSKINSPA, DOHA

WINNER

FAVOURITE BODY RESHAPING & WEIGHT LOSS PROGRAMME IN QATAR 2022

MANDARIN ORIENTAL, DOHA

WINNER

BEST HEALTH CLUB IN QATAR 2022

SHERATON FITNESS – SHERATON

GRAND DOHA RESORT & CONVENTION HOTEL

WINNER

FAVOURITE HEALTH CLUB IN QATAR 2022 M ACTIVE LADIES

WINNER

BEST BEACH CLUB IN QATAR 2022

THE BAY CLUB –INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA BEACH & SPA

WINNER

FAVOURITE BEACH CLUB IN QATAR 2022

THE RITZ-CARLTON SHARQ VILLAGE, DOHA

WINNER

BEST INDOOR POOL IN QATAR 2022

ALEPH RESIDENCES DOHA, CURIO COLLECTION BY HILTON

WINNER

FAVOURITE INDOOR POOL IN QATAR 2022

THE RITZ-CARLTON, DOHA

WINNER

BEST OUTDOOR POOL IN QATAR 2022

THE BAY CLUB –INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA BEACH & SPA

WINNER

FAVOURITE OUTDOOR POOL IN QATAR 2022

THE ST. REGIS DOHA

WINNER

BEST SPA DESIGN IN QATAR 2022

BANYAN TREE DOHA SPA – BANYAN TREE DOHA

OHLALA Awards

WINNER

FAVOURITE SPA DESIGN IN QATAR 2022

SPA BY CLARINS – MARSA MALAZ

KEMPINSKI, THE PEARL - DOHA

WINNER

BEST WELLNESS SPA IN QATAR 2022

QUAN SPA – JW MARRIOTT

MARQUIS CITY CENTER DOHA

WINNER

FAVOURITE WELLNESS SPA IN QATAR 2022 VENUE LADIES

WINNER

BEST MALE SPA IN QATAR 2022

ANANTARA SPA – BANANA ISLAND RESORT DOHA BY ANANTARA

WINNER

FAVOURITE MALE SPA IN QATAR 2022

SARAY SPA – MARRIOTT MARQUIS CITY CENTER DOHA HOTEL

WINNER

BEST BUSINESS HOTEL SPA IN QATAR 2022

SARAY SPA – MARRIOTT MARQUIS CITY CENTER DOHA HOTEL

WINNER

FAVOURITE BUSINESS HOTEL SPA IN QATAR 2022

EFOREA SPA – HILTON DOHA

WINNER

BEST BOUTIQUE SPA IN QATAR 2022

M|SPA – ALWADI HOTEL DOHAMGALLERY

WINNER

FAVOURITE BOUTIQUE SPA IN QATAR 2022

LAMARA SPA – INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA - THE CITY

WINNER

BEST HOTEL SPA IN QATAR 2022

THE SPA – MANDARIN ORIENTAL, DOHA

WINNER

FAVOURITE HOTEL SPA IN QATAR 2022

ESPA – MONDRIAN DOHA

WINNER

BEST RESORT SPA IN QATAR 2022

EFOREA SPA – HILTON SALWA BEACH RESORT & VILLAS

WINNER

FAVOURITE RESORT SPA IN QATAR 2022

AL MESSILA SPA – AL MESSILA, A LUXURY COLLECTION RESORT & SPA, DOHA

WINNER

BEST BEAUTY CLINIC IN QATAR 2022

HOUSTON AMERICAN MEDICAL CENTER

WINNER

FAVOURITE BEAUTY CLINIC IN QATAR 2022

PLANET MEDICAL CENTER

WINNER

BEST NON-INVASIVE COSMETIC TREATMENT IN QATAR 2022

THE SPA – MANDARIN ORIENTAL, DOHA

WINNER

FAVOURITE NON-INVASIVE COSMETIC TREATMENT IN QATAR 2022

FOUR SEASONS HOTEL DOHA

WINNER

BEST EYELASHES AND EYEBROW SERVICES IN QATAR 2022

SULTANA LASHES AND BEAUTY

WINNER

FAVOURITE EYELASHES AND EYEBROW SERVICES IN QATAR 2022

THE BEATS LASH & NAIL SALON

WINNER

BEST NAIL SALON IN QATAR 2022 NAILS QATAR

WINNER

FAVOURITE NAIL SALON IN QATAR 2022 N.BAR

WINNER

BEST HAIR SALON IN QATAR 2022

FRANCK PROVOST – FOUR SEASONS HOTEL DOHA

WINNER

FAVOURITE HAIR SALON IN QATAR 2022

JEAN LOUIS DAVID QATAR

WINNER

BEST HAIR AND BEAUTY TREATMENTS IN QATAR 2022

ALDO COPPOLA – AL HAZM MALL

WINNER

FAVOURITE HAIR AND BEAUTY TREATMENTS IN QATAR 2022

DNA PLASMA HAIR BOOSTER –BIOSKINSPA, DOHA

WINNER

BEST SALON DESIGN IN QATAR 2022

GLAMBAR BEAUTY SALON

WINNER

FAVOURITE SALON DESIGN IN QATAR 2022

THE BEATS LASH & NAIL SALON

WINNER

BEST BEAUTY SALON IN QATAR 2022 ROOTS HAIR AND BEAUTY

WINNER

FAVOURITE BEAUTY SALON IN QATAR 2022

FRANCK PROVOST – FOUR SEASONS HOTEL DOHA

“The time to relax is when you have no time for it”

– Sydney J. Harris

“

Our annual awards recognise the best in Qatar’s wellness and beauty industry. We hosted a stylish ceremony at Nammos Qatar, located at Al Maha Island, to celebrate the winners.

OHLALA Qatar hosted the prestigious sixth annual OHLALA Spa & Wellness Awards Qatar 2022 to honour luxury pampering in the country. The annual event, which recognises and celebrates success for exceptional service in luxury wellness, beauty and spas, was held on January 17, 2023, at the gorgeous Nammos Qatar. This year we finally hosted again our usual glamorous ceremony with guests, partners and winners all together. A celebration to be remembered after a few years of intimate and private events.

Awards were given out amongst pleasant conversations, dance moves and tempting bites, with much recognition for the best services and products in Qatar. The OHLALA Spa & Wellness Awards Qatar 2022 congratulate more than just luxury. The judges looked at the highly efficient and dedicated staff, who are willing to go the extra mile to ensure every guest feels cared for and leaves feeling revitalised.

There are two awards in each category: Favourite is decided by an online vote and Best is chosen by the OHLALA team and industry experts. The awards were distributed in 25 categories, with 50 winners taking home the title of Best or Favourite. These nominees cover the entire spectrum of the spa and wellness industry, ranging from hotel spas, spa products and beauty/grooming salons to health clubs and wellness retreats. This vibrant event was sponsored by Nammos Qatar and Al Maha island for the venue, the automotive sponsor was Alfardan Premier Motors - Maserati, Candela Entertainment brought the fun entertainment, Floward displayed its beautiful flowers, Firma Events helped with the impeccable service and the exciting and much-anticipated giveaways were sponsored by Addoony Cosmetics.

To find out more about these prestigious awards, the partners and the dedicated establishments that participated, please visit www.ohlalamag.net/spawellnessawards/

@ohlalamagazineqa

MAKE A SPLASH

This month, we uncover one of the smallest rooms in the house, the place where we usually spend time alone – the bathroom.

OHLALA Homes

This room can be tiny (or not, mainly in the Middle East), but it is an essential area in any home and for good reason, it is called many names, such as toilet, restroom, washroom, powder room and so on. However, no matter the size or what it is called, you can transform it into a modern, private oasis or spa. Bathrooms are usually impersonal and not full of character, but the 2023 trend says it is time to say goodbye to white, muted, pristine and monochromatic palettes and go wild with the colour wheel. There are three main ways and strategies to add surprising elements to your bathroom.

STATEMENT PIECE

If you are building your house or renovating it, choosing an eye-catching bathroom fitting is a good idea to make it stand out – something like the ephemeral freestanding Reflex bathtub made with Crystalmood by antoniolupi. According to the brand’s website, the material used in this piece is resistant like a stone and transparent like crystal. Crystalmood is a coloured resin that is manually poured into moulds. The transparency of the surface makes it possible to observe this precious liquid’s flow and read its movement. An element to admire while trying to unwind from a stressful day. The resin comes in 14 translucent shades that are warm and bold, but desaturated for an elegant feel. You can also pick one of Ritmonio’s faucets and accessories for the bath area.

RITMONIO

FOCAL POINT

When creating a focus of attention, don’t forget to use colour.The best element to paint with your favourite hue is the vanity unit (which comprises the wash basin, a countertop and a mirror). However, you can be unconventional and embrace waterproof wallpapers specially designed for wet areas. The Tecnografica H2O is a special wallpaper made of fibreglass, enabling you to decorate the most humid environments, including the shower area. This material trend is about vivid and punchy shades in funky graphic designs for a modern and audacious approach. The Inediti Project by Inkiostro Bianco brings unique designs with themes such as jungles, tropical forests, under-sea animals and much more. These wallpapers are able to transform an anonymous and boring wall into an art installation. To complement a striking wall, add a round or oval mirror. Rounded mirrors are the latest trend when it comes to this essential item in a bathroom. They give a dynamic touch to the composition, breaking straight lines. They are also one of the most eye-catching elements due to the effect of the reflection. Talking about reflection, lighting is also an important feature. A good strategy is to backlight the circular mirror all around to obtain a grazing light to emphasise the wallpaper hues or your textured tile or mosaic – if you prefer a more traditional wall covering. A wall treatment or unusual wash bowl is a clever way to take away the attention from the toilet seat, which is never (even when painted in gold) an interesting view.

LARGE FORMAT TILES

This trend emerged a few years ago and has been showing improvements and getting bigger and bigger. Tiles have reached unbelievable sizes of 120x280cm and even 135x305cm – it basically means that with one tile, you can seamlessly clad a wall from floor to ceiling. This can create an incredible effect with a unified material and grouting visual pollution reduced to a minimum.

The wallpaper effect is also ‘contaminating’ the ceramic industry. Tiles with an array of designs and colours are being offered to create an exciting look on bathroom walls. Collections are less extensive than when it comes to wallpapers, but still in a great variety with many different patterns and trendy shades to add some pizzazz to your private area. The best way of using these elements is to create an accent wall; you can choose the one behind the vanity unit, inside the shower or behind a freestanding bathtub. Neutral shades can be used as a backdrop for other walls in different finishes like matte, full lappato (when the polishing process is stopped before the entire surface becomes polished, leaving some spots unpolished), glossy or texturised. For the floor, look for the coefficient R10 or R11, known for its anti-slip properties to provide safety in wet areas. RAK Ceramics is one of the largest ceramics brands in the world and offers a variety of great options.

For more information, connect with @antoniolupidesign, @ritmonio, @tecnograficaofficial, @inkiostrobianco and @rakceramicsofficial

ALAN WALLPAPER BY TECNOGRAFICA

Elegant Hospitality in Timeless Surroundings

Doha is becoming a metropolitan city with many incredible buildings that take edgy design very seriously. The luxurious Fairmont Doha is one of these exceptional constructions that impresses with its majestic and striking curved shape. The property is housed within the awesome looking Katara towers that reflect two crossed scimitars, a symbol of the country’s cultural heritage. The hotel boasts 270 rooms, 92 suites, four themed rooms and one Presidential Suite, all inspired by the interiors of lavish yachts with breathtaking views of the sea and the city’s skyline. A very appropriate inspiration as the building sits on the edge of the crystalline waters of the Arabian Gulf – a stylish way of welcoming the ocean into the rooms. To provide a more elevated experience to its guests, the hotel features an exclusive lifestyle floor, the Fairmont Gold, which offers extra benefits and privileges such as a dedicated pool and lounge, as well as butlers providing a highly personalised service.

A spectacular décor accessory lies in Fairmont Doha’s lobby – one of the world’s tallest chandeliers, measuring 57 metres. The chandelier is made with individual wire pieces, 4,807 bulbs and glass parts that create an admirable effect.

Wellness is an essential pillar at Fairmont Doha. The property offers a state-of-the-art fitness centre with regeneration technologies, a climbing wall, immersive spin classes, an indoor lap pool and yoga rooms. The

Fairmont Spa completes the journey with a vitality pool, relaxation rooms, Hammam and treatment rooms, allowing guests to fully unwind. When the focus goes to nourishment, diners have a selection of delectable eateries to choose from. Masala Library offers progressive Indian cuisine, a concept by restaurateur, television host and author Jiggs Kalra. Vaya! is a vibrant restaurant with open kitchens and interactive service stations where South American-inspired dishes and drinks are prepared tableside. And at Dôme, a chic tea lounge, afternoon tea and French-inspired bites and sips can be enjoyed in the company of family and friends. The highlight on the dining scene goes to Provok, an expansive culinary destination showcasing an eclectic Asian experience. The eatery provides two contrasting elements, fire and ice concepts, spread across two floors. On the 33rd floor, ice sculptures, an ice bar, inventive sushi, sashimi and rolls take centre stage. While on the 34th floor, the mood heats up, the music is always upbeat, Korean barbecue is on the menu and Japanese robatayaki and teppanyaki arts are performed in the open kitchen.

For more information or to make a reservation, please call Fairmont Doha on 4030 7200 or email info.doha@fairmont.com @fairmontdoha

Outstanding location, upscale designs and snazzy eateries await you at Fairmont Doha.

Express your Feelings

Magical MOMENTS

This month, thanks to the anything but ordinary Kandima Maldives, OHLALA experienced four unforgettable days and nights immersed in the magnificence of this island destination.

DHAALU ATOLL

Positioned Southwest of Sri Lanka and India, about 750 kilometres from mainland Asia, The Maldives is an archipelagic country formed by 26 natural atolls consisting of 1,192 islands.

Kandima Maldives is located in one of the most remote atolls in the Maldives, namely the Dhaalu Atoll. This far-flung location is, however, accessible via a short 35-minute domestic flight from Male International Airport to the airport in Dhaalu Atoll itself.

From there, it’s a quick, yet staggering beautiful, 20-minute boat ride to the tropical island. Alternatively, you can take a 45-minute seaplane flight, skimming low over the reefs and lagoons of the Indian Ocean, straight to the island’s arrival jetty.

As we approached our destination, we were taken aback by the large natural lagoon and lush tropical surroundings. Stepping onto the overwater wooden jetty and warmly welcomed by the resort staff, we knew we had just landed in paradise.

KANDIMA MALDIVES

Kandima is situated on an almost three-kilometre-long island and boasts one of the largest swimming pools in all the Maldives, measuring 100 metres in length.

Couples, families, honeymooners and groups of friends are all catered for, with accommodations and activities to suit all requests and requirements. Whether you’re after adventure, relaxation, pampering, sporting activities, beautiful views or just quality time with your family or companions, Kandima is the ultimate lifestyle destination for you.

ACCOMMODATION & COMFORT

With 264 stylishly designed villas and studios, Kandima offers accommodation to suit all guests. We were fortunate enough to experience two different offerings over the course of our stay.

OCEAN POOL VILLA

We were housed in the Ocean Pool Villa for the first two nights. These ultra-stylish villas offer the best of both worlds. With their semi-beach, semi-overwater positioning, we enjoyed both easy access to the beach and uninterrupted views of the Indian Ocean.

“Whether you’re after adventure, relaxation, pampering, sporting activities, beautiful views or just quality time with your family or companions, Kandima is the ultimate lifestyle destination for you.”

Escapes

The overwater private deck and pool were the ultimate spot to cool off and take in the flawless nature of our surroundings. These comfortable and stylish villas have everything one could need for a relaxing holiday. Room highlights include free wi-fi, a mini bar, an in-room entertainment system complete with 40-inch LED TV and a freestanding bathtub with an ocean view.

SUNRISE BEACH VILLA WITH SWIRL POOL

For our last two nights, we got to experience the Sunrise Beach Villa with Swirl Pool. Set right on the main beachfront, these spacious villas are perfectly situated on the eastern side of the island with instant access to the white sandy beach.

In each villa of this kind, a private deck extends towards a swirl pool that offers endless views of the surrounding turquoise waters. As well as the above there is also a semi-outdoor bathroom with a tub, a rainfall shower and comfortable day bed, ideal for simply lounging.

RESTAURANTS & CUISINE

With 10 outstanding eateries on the island, preparing an array of cuisine options, guests are simply spoilt for choice.

SMOKED BEACH

On our first night, we were treated to an upmarket dining experience at Smoked. This modern grill house is well known for its open-concept kitchen with a custom-made Parilla grill and giant homemade smoker. A wide range of dishes, including succulent steaks, smoked ribs, fresh fish and an assortment of delicious vegetarian options, are all on offer. Our orders were prepared to perfection and served to us al-fresco style at our beachside dining table. Partaking in this sumptuous cuisine under a starry night sky and listening to the waves lapping on the beach, was an occasion we will remember for many years.

SEA DRAGON

One of our favourite foodie locations on the island was the Sea Dragon. This venue offers Far Eastern fine dining at its very best. Providing a modern take on authentic Asian cuisine, including fresh sea fish and shellfish dishes, guests can select their meal from giant display tanks at the front of the restaurant. The exceptional chefs then prepare your dish to perfection, ensuring a memorable culinary experience.

BREEZE POOL BAR

We found Breeze Bar to be a great location to relax, unwind, dance and watch sunsets, as well as to socialise with other guests. A live band provides uplifting entertainment, whilst DJs ensure the party continues into the night. Cold drinks, cocktails and hookah are all available at this lively venue.

AMENITIES & ACTIVITIES

A heavenly equipped spa, a sports arena, state-of-the-art fitness centre, tennis court, football field, medical clinic, an art studio, one of the biggest kids’ clubs in the Maldives and a water sports centre are amongst the variety of impressive amenities on offer at this luxurious destination. Kandima is also a perfect MICE destination, and ideal location to host meetings, conferences, weddings and other lifestyle events.

AQUAHOLICS

Aquaholics is the resort’s water sports and dive centre. It offers an array of exciting activities to suit all tastes. These must-try activities include parasailing, sunset cruises, windsurfing, big game fishing, glass canoe adventures and much more.

We were lucky enough to experience both the Turtle and Dolphin Quest Adventures. These expeditions involved tranquil boat rides out into open water to locate dolphins and sea turtles. Fortunate enough to spot both species, we were grateful to the resort for providing such close encounters with these magnificent creatures.

Eager for some snorkelling, we also joined the Seabob experience. This is a super-quick underwater scooter that allowed us to explore greater distances, dive deeper and experience more marine life. A truly exceptional way to witness the underwater wonders of the Maldives.

Escapes

ESKAPE SPA

Our relaxing and pampered holiday would not have felt complete without a visit to the peaceful Eskape Spa. This beautiful venue, with its tropical surroundings, provides the perfect place to unwind. With a range of treatments on offer, from exfoliation to healing therapies, along with excellent facilities, including an onsite steam room and a plunge pool, all guests are in for a real treat. Opting for the Maldivian Ocean Dream Massage, we can certify this spa as a must-experience location that revitalises both the body and the senses.

TIME TO SAY GOODBYE

As hard as it was for us to leave Kandima and the beauty of the Maldives, we all felt an overwhelming sense of gratitude for having this once-in-alifetime experience.

We want to thank the resort staff for their kindness, attentive service, and constant smiles. You made our trip truly unforgettable!

For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.kandima.com or email mykindofplace@kandima.com @kandima_maldives

MEAT MATTERS

CHIC Eats

It’s Tuesday night, which means there’s somewhere we have to be. Every week, New York Steakhouse at Marriott Marquis City Center Doha Hotel hosts Tomahawk Tuesdays, which is reason enough to go; but not only this, it is accompanied by a night of live jazz. We’re welcomed by our lovely host Ignacio, who ensures we are settled in plush leather chairs and water glasses are filled before he talks us through the menu options, as live jazz wafts towards us across the restaurant.

He duly recommends a selection of starters (more on this later), and then we discuss meat. At New York Steakhouse, there’s beef for everyone, but as it’s Tomahawk night, it would be churlish not to, wouldn’t it?! As we chat, fresh out of the oven comes an onion and cheese (Emmental, parmesan and Cheddar) brioche, presented in a homely little bread pan and served with a thyme and black pepper butter, flavoured with the merest hint of chilli. It’s doughy, fragrant and just the right balance between sweet and savoury. Our purple seafood salad amuse bouche (stewed calamari and shrimps, red cabbage, mango, tomato and mint leaves in an orange and lemon vinaigrette) on a shrimp cracker – with a touch of truffle mayo and some micro herbs – is swiftly consumed before our starters arrive.

First up is Foie Gras – pan-seared, lightly salted and sitting plumply atop toasted brioche. It melts in the mouth and is complemented by wonderfully tart green apples, which have been diced and cooked in just a little sugar, and then sweetened by pearls of cassis and beetroot reduction dotted around the plate. Warming and decadent, it’s the perfect thing to start us off.

CHIC Eats

Next comes ceviche and the rather beautiful dish named Green, which turns out to be a fabulous, crunchy salad with al dente vegetables, sliced green apple, avocado, cucumber, arugula and kale, all tossed in a lemon vinaigrette (secret ingredients are lemon peel and orange juice – I am taking this with me for future dressings). The ceviche is a trio of delicate seafood containing shrimp, calamari and tuna sashimi, with a tiger milk sauce that zings with lemon and lime, a gentle chilli heat and delicious creaminess from its fish sauce base. There is decorative sweet potato purée, along with some sweetcorn kernels, both of which give it a deliciously Peruvian feel. Sitting where we are, we have a perfect view of the chefs in the live kitchen, hard at work, occasionally blow torching ‘things’ and creating ceiling-high fire spectacles. But this is nothing compared to the show we are about to receive at our table. First, a box of knives appears for us to choose our meatfest weapons. Then, the Tomahawk is wheeled out. If you order one of these or equally a Porterhouse cut, you will be treated to an audience with Chef Ulash (who hails from Türkiye but recently moved from Oman), who has seared our Tomahawk to perfection. He slices it up and then, on a hot plate, flash fries liquid butter with lemon, rosemary sprigs, more liquid butter, the steak and its bone, smoky salt and sea salt and (got it in one) more liquid butter. Flames leap upwards, fragrant smells erupt from the pan and finally, he plates it all up, adding roasted garlic bulbs, roasted cherry tomatoes and a touch of salt to this mouth-watering meat. Ummm, where will the side dishes go!?

We try both the Peppercorn and Roquefort sauces, but Ignacio also insists we try the Chimichurri. It turns out our lovely Argentinian host has had a few steaks before and absolutely knows what he is talking about. The acidity of the Chimichurri is the yang to the fatty (read deeply flavoursome) tenderness of the Tomahawk’s yin. Perfection.

I can usually be persuaded to have surf with my turf, so for a bit of added luxury, I try the Lobster Mac and Cheese. Cheesy goodness clings to the conchiglie pasta as I slide it towards my plate, and the pieces of lobster ensure that we have high-class surf to complement our steak. Hand-cut French fries are also a delicious addition, skin-on with parmesan shavings and truffle mayo. I thoroughly enjoy the creamed spinach, which has been perfectly seasoned and then dusted with lemon zest and parmesan. It is hearty, creamy and lifted by the zest but crucially, just right with steak. To top it all off, we end with Cheesecake on Fire, a cheesecake stunningly presented as an edible candle. The ‘wax’ is made of white chocolate, which encases fluffy cheesecake and strawberry compote, and the ‘candle wick’ is a single almond flake which is lit in front of us. One of the most inventive

desserts I have seen and a joy to behold. For good measure, we also have the Chocolate Fondant, containing chunks of molten banana caramel and chocolatey goodness. The coffee gelato by its side has almost salted caramel notes to it and frankly, I could eat tubs of the stuff if I had not just eaten… well, see above.

Our dessert is gloriously accompanied by live jazz. Vocals, keys and a tenor sax have us swaying to old classics and jazzy takes on modern popular beats. We watch, mesmerised, as the musicians play around, adding touches of their own characters to it. It is such a treat to watch superb live music whilst also enjoying some seriously high-quality food.

For more information, please call New York Steakhouse at Marriott Marquis City Center Doha Hotel at 4419 5000.

@newyork.steakhouse

@marriottmarquisdoha

FOR THE LOVE OF FOOD

ALWADI HOTEL DOHA – MGALLERY

O’Glacée

Experience 'La Côte d’Azur à Doha’ with live entertainment as you sample the richness of local and international recipes while your favourite mixed grills are delivered to your table. The Saturday Mediterranean Brunch runs from 12pm to 4pm and costs QR250 per person with soft drinks and QR299 with enhanced beverages.

Call 4009 9666 or WhatsApp 3075 8211 for more information or to make a reservation.

FAIRMONT DOHA

Provok

Spend your Saturdays in style at Provok’s Uruma Saturday Lunch. At the cutting edge of modern Asian gastronomy, the daring and inventive menu elevates delicate miso soups and generous sharing-style platters –from freshly-caught sashimi to sumptuous dishes starring lobster, Wagyu beef or King crab legs – with a masterfully creative spin. The offer runs from 12pm to 4pm and is priced at QR320 per person for Set 1 and QR620 per person for Set 2.

Call 4030 7200 or email dining.doha@fairmont.com for more information or to make a reservation.

FAIRMONT DOHA

Masala Library by Jiggs Kalra

This is a dinner to impress. Masala Library will serve a seven-course Royal Indian menu on a table resplendent in scattered red rose petals that would be fit for any Raj palace. Courses will be individually portioned, with each couple sharing a ‘love dessert’. Guests leave with a Muhabbat ki Sulaimani giveaway of rose cookies and a red rose. The offer runs on February 14 from 7pm to 11pm, priced at QR650, including beverages.

Call 4030 7200 or email dining.doha@fairmont.com for more information or to make a reservation.

FOUR SEASONS HOTEL DOHA

Curiosa By Jean-Georges

The ultimate romantic experience awaits you and your loved one on Valentine’s Day at Curiosa by Jean-Georges. Celebrate love by sharing their Latin-inspired, five-course set menu and bubbly, while the romantic atmosphere and live band set the mood for a memorable evening. The offer is priced at QR700, including two glasses of sparkling, or QR1,300 with a bottle of sparkling.

Call 4494 8600 or email res.doha@fourseasons.com for more information or to make a reservation.

FOUR SEASONS HOTEL DOHA

Nobu

The world-famous eatery offers an elite brunch with a wide selection of Nobu’s speciality dishes. The offer runs every Friday from 1pm to 4pm and is priced at QR345 for the regular brunch, QR525 for the sparkling option and QR650 for the enhanced sparkling brunch.

Call 4494 8500 for more information or to make a reservation.

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA BEACH & SPA

La Mar Beach

Dine under the stars on Valentine’s Day by the beach with vibrant and colourful dishes sure to tantalise the taste buds. Enjoy exclusive seating on your (limited availability) private deck while listening to the waves of the ocean. The offer is priced at QR1,150 per couple, including one welcome drink. Beverage pairing is available at QR450 per couple.

Call 4484 4098 for more information or to make a reservation.

This month we bring a selection of special offers to celebrate Valentine’s Day in grand style and other exciting dining experiences.

CHIC Eats

JW MARRIOTT MARQUIS CITY CENTER DOHA

Shanghai Club

Celebrate with your other half at Shanghai Club with a unique set menu for QR450 per couple, inclusive of two enhanced beverages, while you sway to the tunes of the new resident DJ. The offer runs on Valentine's Day from 7pm to 10pm.

Call or WhatsApp 5506 2798 for more information or to make a reservation.

JW MARRIOTT MARQUIS CITY CENTER DOHA

Fuego

Take a culinary trip to Latin America and enjoy the vibrant Papagayo Brunch experience with specialities from Central and South America complemented by upbeat tunes from a live band. The offer runs from 1pm to 4pm every Friday and is priced at QR280 with soft drinks and QR380 for the enhanced beverages package.

Call or WhatsApp 5506 2798 for more information or to make a reservation.

MARRIOTT MARQUIS CITY CENTER DOHA HOTEL

Cucina

Experience an authentic Italian journey at Cucina with their fabulous four-course menu crafted by Chef Claudio Trovato and his team. The offer runs on February 14 from 6pm to 11pm and is priced at QR180 per person, including a special welcome drink.

Call 4419 5510 or WhatsApp 6643 6890 for more information or to make a reservation.

MONDRIAN DOHA

EllaMia

Head down to a ‘through the looking glass’ experience at the Alice In Wonderland Afternoon Tea which promises a delicious range of savoury and sweet treats in delightful surroundings. The offer runs daily from 2pm to 7pm and is priced from QR175.

Call 4045 5999 for more information or to make a reservation.

RAFFLES DOHA

L’Artisan

The talented chefs have expertly crafted a special four-course set menu for couples to celebrate love against the backdrop of a romantic playlist by live performers. The offer runs on February 14 from 7pm to 11pm, priced at QR450 per person.

Call 4030 7100 or email dining.doha@raffles.com for more information or to make a reservation.

SHERATON GRAND DOHA RESORT & CONVENTION HOTEL

Jamavar

Enjoy a romantic evening to remember with your loved one as Jamavar promises a fantastically indulgent meal. The special five-course tasting menu experience showcases sumptuous Indian cuisine set to make your mouth water. The offer runs on Valentine’s Day from 6pm to 11pm, priced at QR245 per person, including a glass of bubbly, or QR445 per couple, including a glass of bubbly.

Call 5594 9701 for more information or to make a reservation.

SHERATON GRAND DOHA RESORT & CONVENTION HOTEL

Atrium Lounge

Brighten up your morning at Atrium Lounge with Flavours of Arabic Breakfast where you can expect to find plenty of local and regional dishes. The offer runs daily from 8am to 1pm and is priced at QR175.

Call 4485 3000 for more information or to make a reservation.

THE RITZ-CARLTON, DOHA

Sel & Miel

Visit Paris in the heart of Doha. The elegant Sel & Miel dresses up in its most romantic attire and welcomes you to the most elegant atmosphere. The offer runs on February 14 from 7pm to 11pm, priced QR500 per couple with soft drinks or QR650 per couple for the enhanced package. Call 5599 0916 or email dining.doha@ritzcarlton.com for more information or to make a reservation.

PORSCHE’S PROUD AND POWERFUL CAYENNE RANGE

AFTER 20 YEARS AND THREE GENERATIONS, THE CAYENNE’S SUCCESS SHOWS NO SIGN OF SLOWING DOWN.

Despite Porsche’s sterling reputation for producing some of the most iconic sports cars in history, fans were left reeling when the brand announced it was to create its first SUV. Many sports car enthusiasts couldn’t understand why and believed this move would end up haunting the brand. Twenty years have now passed since the unveiling of the first-generation Porsche Cayenne, and the decision to break into the SUV segment has been more than vindicated. In fact, it took Porsche half the amount of time to sell its one-millionth Cayenne as it did to sell its one-millionth 911. Now in its third generation, the Porsche Cayenne is going from strength to strength and has become one of the most beloved and sought-after midsized SUVs on the planet. Combining typical Porsche performance with excellent everyday practicality has proved to be a winning formula for the brand, a recipe that is showcased in the current range of Cayenne cars.

THE PORSCHE CAYENNE

Porsche’s third-generation Cayenne has been well-received by the public. The SUV has been visually enhanced since its predecessors and features mixed tyres along with rear-axle steering for the first time. Additionally, large air intakes at the front clearly point out the improved on-road performance of this latest edition.

Powering this mechanical masterpiece is a choice between two newly developed, six-cylinder engines coupled with a new eight-speed Tiptronic S gearbox. The Cayenne’s 340hp, three-litre turbo engine delivers 40hp more than the previous generation, whilst the 2.9-litre V6 biturbo engine, fitted in the Cayenne S model, delivers 440hp and a top speed of 265km/h. When equipped with the optional Sport Chrono Package, the Cayenne S can accelerate from 0-100km/h in less than five seconds.

This SUV is not just an on-road performer, however. The new generation of Cayenne features an all-wheel drive along with four different off-road modes designed to conquer all manner of tough terrain. This makes it as capable in the rough as it is on the tarmac.

If the high performance of these new editions was not enough, The Porsche Advanced Cockpit houses an innovative display and control concept with increased connectivity. A wide range of driver assistance and safety features has also been fitted as standard.

THE PORSCHE CAYENNE COUPÉ

Not satisfied with merely creating a phenomenal SUV, Porsche have added an even sportier vehicle to the third-generation lineup, namely the Cayenne Coupé.

“Now in its third generation, the Porsche Cayenne is going from strength to strength and has become one of the most beloved and sought-after mid-sized SUVs on the planet.”

The Coupé, with its steeply sloping roofline, includes all the technical highlights of the current Cayenne but features an updated dynamic design, along with technical details that make it even more athletic and desirable. The highlights of this new model include sharper lines, a unique rear section, an adaptive spoiler and a rear bench with the characteristics of two seats. The Coupé also comes with two different roof concepts:a panoramic fixed glass roof – fitted as standard – and an optional carbon roof. The Coupé benefits from all the advanced technical capabilities of the Cayenne, including its robust drive systems, innovative chassis systems, digitalised display and operating concept and comprehensive connectivity. The top-of-the-range Cayenne Turbo Coupé is fitted with a four-litre V8 engine with twin-turbo charging that delivers 550hp, along with a max torque of 770Nm. This beast of an engine powers the Turbo Coupé from 0-100km/h in a mere 3.9 seconds and boasts a top speed of 286km/h.

THE PORSCHE CAYENNE PLATINUM EDITION

Never satisfied with resting on their laurels, Porsche have recently developed a new Platinum Edition of selected Cayenne models. Platinum Editions of the 250kW Cayenne, the Cayenne E-Hybrid with 340kW and the 324kW Cayenne S are all available, as well as the corresponding Coupé variants.

This special edition of the luxury SUV is characterised by exclusive design elements and numerous model-specific details that are fitted as standard. These include a satin Platinum paint finish, sport tailpipes, black side window trims and 21-inch RS Spyder Design wheels - exclusively reserved for this special edition.

Eight-way sports seats and crayon seat belts, along with Porsche Crestembossed front and rear headrests, are all fitted as standard in this SUV’s lavish interior. Further adding to the unique nature of the vehicle are brushed aluminium door sills complete with ‘Platinum Edition’ logos, ambient lighting, an analogue clock on the dashboard and a Bose surround-sound system. All this and more are standard in the celebrated Platinum Edition Range.

For more information, please call Porsche Centre Doha on 4459 9666.

@porschecentredoha

What is Love?

Something that is everywhere if carried inside you.

According to Oxford Learner’s Dictionaries, love is a very strong feeling of liking and caring for somebody or something. A recurrent subject in songs, poems, novels and films. Romantic love has been one of the favourite themes in many artwork forms throughout time. Historical evidence suggests love existed during ancient times and across many parts of the world. The anthropologic study, A Cross-Cultural Perspective on Romantic Love by William R. Jankowiak and Edward F. Fischer found that romantic love existed in 147 of 166 cultures examined. It is almost impossible, or at least it would be very difficult, to navigate life without love. However, if you stop to think, the non-romantic relationships we have in our lives are way more important and significant. They provide the types of feeling that make the biggest difference in our everyday life. It starts with the love you receive from your mother, father and other family members and then moves to the love you give and receive from your pets. You then learn that there are crucial friends in your life and you end up absolutely loving some of them. Usually, later in life, when you become more mature (for some people, it happens earlier), you find the most important type of love there is – self-love.

Caring for yourself relaxes your brain cells, reduces stress and helps you maintain a good sleep pattern. It will also make life lighter, which may lead you to find romantic love in someone else. So invest in loving yourself to live a fulfilling life.