Ohlala Qatar November 2018

THE ESSENCE OF STYLE

Heart’s Hideaway TRAVEL TO SENSATIONAL SWITZERLAND

ANew Facade

Retail Icon

JUST GOT POSSIBLE

SALAM STORES

WWW.OHLALA-MAGAZINE.COM NOVEMBER 2018 | ISSUE 89 QATAR | QR20

www.ohlala-magazine.com

1

2

www.ohlala-magazine.com

www.ohlala-magazine.com

3

4

www.ohlala-magazine.com

www.ohlala-magazine.com

5

6

www.ohlala-magazine.com

www.ohlala-magazine.com

7

8

www.ohlala-magazine.com

www.ohlala-magazine.com

9

10

www.ohlala-magazine.com

www.ohlala-magazine.com

11

12

www.ohlala-magazine.com

www.ohlala-magazine.com

13

CONTENTS Ohlala

NA ABBA

E&G

DOLC

18 GLITZ Editors Letter Style Focus La Mano Bella

42

SHIMMER Marsa-Malaz Kempinski Anahi Brown The Venue

14

www.ohlala-magazine.com

54 SHINE Lookbook InterContinental Doha Switzerland

The Gate Mall - Mall Of Qatar

www.ohlala-magazine.com

15

NOVEMBER 2018 ISSUE 89

CHAIRMAN Khalifa Bin Mubarak Al Khalifa

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Greg Hughes GENERAL MANAGER

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Jayne Green CONTRIBUTORS

PUBLISHING DIRECTORS Edward Smith Angela Beitz

Anahi Brown Helen Houghton Pooja Adam Shabana Adam

SENIOR GRAPHIC DESIGNER

SALES DIRECTOR Marisela Paesano

Jyoti Rawat

PRODUCTION MANAGER

PHOTOGRAPHY CONTRIBUTORS

Neil Mahmood

Abshar Kader

DISTRIBUTION MANAGER

Faras Ghani

Ajit Kumar COVER IMAGE

Hussein Zreik

WEBSITE DESIGNER & DEVELOPER Ammar Ali WEBSITE Melek Yildirimtekin

CREDITS IMAGE Valentino

Salam Stores

ACCOUNTANTS Gigimon Thankachen

DISTRIBUTION TEAM

PRINTING PRESS Al Anan Printing Press, Oman

Jayapragash Ganesan

Praveen Alexander

DISTRIBUTION

Rajesh Abdul Kadar

Qatar – Dar Al Sharq

ENQUIRIES Editorial: jayne@ohlala-magazine.comm | Advertising: edward@ohlala-magazine.com | General: admin@ohlala-magazine.com Telephone: Qatar +974 4441 8415/+974 4421 3089 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.

16

www.ohlala-magazine.com

VILLAGGIO MALL VIP AREA GATE 6 T 44831027

www.ohlala-magazine.com

17

TOMFORD.COM

SHI

EDITOR’S LETTER

NAM

I actually wore my coat for the first time in what felt like forever last week and I loved it. I love pumpkin spiced lattes and the reflectional period that Autumn always seems to ensue with me. I love the wind beating across my face and watching the recent rainfall. I loved being snuggled up with my cat in my PJ’s watching the recent storms that have catapulted themselves around us. This started to make me truly reflect on what makes me happy and how lucky I am as a person... and how I feel that I’ve most definitely take this for granted. Speaking of overhauls, when it comes to your wardrobe - particularly ones just after fashion week - many of us look to runway trends and street style round-ups in search of inspiration. But one avenue we all go down - whether intentionally or not - is probably sitting in the palm of your hand right now.

Thanks to influencers, celebrities and sometimes even our own friends, Instagram is awash with style inspo, whether it’s that new bag that you needed the encouragement to buy or a pair of patent leather trousers that you weren’t sure how to style - the folks on your feed have the answers.

While many old-school bloggers started out with just a simple website, the trend now stretches further out onto Instagram, and there are now more fashion “influencers” rather than “bloggers” than ever before. And they’re having an incredible impact on how we dress.

I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again... “Be present!” After all, the experiences and giggles may not be truly captured when you are more worried about how it’s perceived through a lens.

Jayne Green 18

www.ohlala-magazine.com

Editor-in-Chief

www.ohlala-magazine.com

19

20

www.ohlala-magazine.com

GIVENCHY

FABULOUS FASHIONISTA LOOK CHIC WITH THESE STYLE DO’S FOR THE INNER MILLENNIAL HIDING IN US ALL.

www.ohlala-magazine.com

21

WISH List

MECHANIC

OF NOBILITY

Moynat has long been renowned for the use of innovative and rare materials: the House created the first waterproof trunk in 1854 using canvas coated with gutta-percha, the sap of a tree from Indonesia. We delve into the world of creation and see how Moynat has evolved since its original manifestation.

The artistic evolution of Moynat reached a peak in the 1920s, a period marked by the Art Deco movement. The international exhibitions of 1925 until 1937 were landmarks in the history of modern decorative arts and made Paris into the capital of a new world of art, design, architecture and creativity. Moving away from ostentation, working with new materials and new technologies, 22

www.ohlala-magazine.com

the Art Deco movement is a period that has brought great clarity of line and shape. Clarity of vision, a quest for purity and simplicity combined with an exuberance of creativity and an effervescence of imagination to bring together different fields of artistic effort. It also led to a coming together of architects, painters, jewellery designers such as René Herbst, Charlotte Perriand, Jean Puiforcat, Etienne Cournault and Gérard Sandoz.

While modern, sleek, and geometric forms define Art Deco as much as they do Moynat aesthetics, artistic director Ramesh Nair also draws inspiration from the whole spectrum of the arts: a sense of movement from dance, the geometrical shapes from Cubism, the contrast of black and white from NeoPlasticism and a fascination with the mechanical world of Futurism.

Each year, Moynat selects an aspect of craft to shine a light on its unique approach: leathers, craftsmanship, surface embellishment. It is time to see how these different materials are held together at crucial points to delineate space in the container that we call a bag.

Taking a cue from transformable jewellery of the 1930s, Moynat has adopted the modernist approach to the metallic components of their bags, layering, inlaying and enamelling multiple metals such as silver, gold and platinum with more prosaic metals like brass and treating all materials with the same finesse of technique and workmanship.

Closures, clasps, hooks and rings not only make the bag a useful, transportable object but also help elevate it from sober practicality to a dimension of the arts. These mechanisms are often called ‘bijouterie’ (jewellery) in French because of the beauty of the design and their close relationship to sculpture.

A special place is given to the mechanics of their closures that are an invisible but passionate part of bijouterie. The Moynat lock, a triumph of artisanal craftsmanship, is the object that, more than any other, links beauty and mechanical ingenuity to life values: to make, to hold and to inhabit a personal space. @moynat

www.ohlala-magazine.com

23

STYLE

ADAM SELMAN

VICTORIA BECKHAM

ASHLEY WILLIAMS

NAEEM KHAN

TOM FORD

HALPERN

ASHLEY WILLIAMS

Focus

ANIMAL INSTINCT

www.ohlala-magazine.com

CHALAYAN

TOME

24

LES PETITS JOUEURS

ERMANNO SCERVINO

Be as free as a bird and as confident as a beast when incorporating this style into your wardrobe - guaranteed to project your ultimate prowess.

www.ohlala-magazine.com

25

VILLAGGIO MALL, VIP AREA GATE 6, 44728917

STYLE

CHRISTOPHER KANE

EUDUN CHOI

FENDI

FENDI

EMPORIO ARMANI

DOLCE GABBANA

GEORGIO ARMANI

Focus

26

www.ohlala-magazine.com

NICOPANDA

We’re channeling our inner doll with a palette of pink that even the most fabulous fashionistas cannot resist.

VALENTINO

RALPH RUSSO

BARBIE’S DREAMHOUSE

Villaggio Mall, Canal Area lkbennett.com +974 44350138

www.ohlala-magazine.com

27

STYLE

LANVIN

ECKHAUS LATTA

BOTTEGA VENETA

Focus

M U S TA R D MOGUL

28

www.ohlala-magazine.com

LES COPAINS

ECKHAUS LATTA

PORTS 1961

PRABAL GURUNG

ROKSANDA

TIBI

BOTTEGA VENETA

This is one hue that has been popping up everywhere we turn and its versatility towards every skin tone has us wanting even more.

E I G

NO. 3

N

H

T H

A U T U M

E

T Villaggio Mall, Canal Area, +974 44134503 Landmark Mall, Gate 2, +974 44867752

www.ohlala-magazine.com

29

STYLE

STELLA JEAN

CHLOÉ

RALPH RUSSO

Focus

MISSONI

PAT T E R N P L AY

30

CHLOÉ

EMILIA WICKSTEAD

MISSONI

GEMY MAALOUF

MARY KATRANTZOU

Be the ultimate style icon and have fun with everything that you thought you knew about patterns.

www.ohlala-magazine.com

www.ohlala-magazine.com

31

OHLALA Boutiques

PARTY GLAMOUR

Michael Kors announced the release of their new Holiday 2019 ad campaigns for MICHAEL Michael Kors and Michael Kors Mens, shot by New York-based photographer Lachlan Bailey.

The two campaigns are centered on holiday party glamour, capturing a group of stylish friends - Andreea Diaconu, Sohyun Jung, Baptiste Radufe and Roberto Rossellini arriving at a downtown nightclub. Inspired by the city that never sleeps, Bailey’s images capture the see-and-be-seen attitude of New York City nightlife. The art-deco details and rich textures of the holiday fashion emphasize the glamorous nightclub sensibility.

WOMEN’S - MICHAEL MICHAEL KORS MEN’S - MICHAEL KORS 32

www.ohlala-magazine.com

DETOX AND PURIFY. Cleanse and refresh your whole system.

Over the years, our bodies become burdened by toxins and harmful substances.

Join our specialists for a specially designed program to cleanse the system through lymphatic and puriďŹ cation therapies, for a feeling of revitalisation and well-being.

Lymphatic therapy (60 minutes), PuriďŹ cation therapy (30-minutes)

QAR 500 For reservations and more information, contact us at tel +974 4040 5175 or email wellness.adoh@anantara.com

www.ohlala-magazine.com

33

BEAUTY Boutiques

W

OUR FAVOURITE BELLA Choosing a nail salon in Doha can be, well, a real nail-biting decision. While there’s one seemingly on every block, we wouldn’t recommend entrusting your digits to just anyone in the neighbourhood either. Introducing LA MANO BELLA SALON ...

34

www.ohlala-magazine.com

hen you want your hands to look like a work of art, head to high-end nail atelier La Mano Bella. The luxury salon has two branches, one located at South Duhail and the other at Al Khor.

For a soothing manicure/pedicure experience, this prestige nail polish parlor does not disappoint and is unparalleled when it comes to their quality results and service. You’ll be certain to be showcasing your new talons at any given opportunity post-visit - “Oh, hello Instagram!”

We are simply obsessed with its neat white and pink interior finishing with design accents that goes hand in hand with the state-of-the-art beauty treatments, equipment and their sleek furniture. With its romantic, calm and soothing style, this salon has been dubbed “the most beautiful salon in Doha” and it’s easy to see why.

La Mano Bella provides one of the most advance specialisations in Nail Art by sporting chrome nails, 3D nail art, ombre nails, glitter nails, cat eye nails and a wide array of embellishments.

They are always evolving alongside the latest trends and technology in today’s market - which is important for us social butterflies out there. If you can dream it, the ladies here can certainly do it. From Swarovski crystals on your ring finger to glitter on your tips, available designs run the gamut. Clients are also welcomed to bring in their own photographs or ideas for the talented technicians to recreate. Practically every manicure imaginable is available at this dedicated nail salon.

La Mano Bella Salon also provides an extensive range of top-class beauty treatments, including eyebrow microblading, eyelashes extension, waxing and massages for all your beauty needs, The fully-trained and professional staff will make sure you have a superior experience whether it be by yourself or with your girlfriends. Get your fingers and toes in tip-top shape with a manicure and pedicure at one of the best nail salons in Doha...

After all, you deserve it!

Retreat into a collection of personalized treatments, delivered by experienced therapists and designed to meet your individual needs.

Morning Escape Offer QAR 350 per person * ∙ A 30 minute back massage or reflexology session ∙ 2-hours use of our indoor Spa wet area or outside facilities (pool & beach) ∙ A luxury Spa robe, slippers, a newspaper and a choice of a hot drink as well as a pastry or muffin Luxury Afternoon Tea Spa Day QAR 600 per person * ∙ A 60 minute massage of your choice including a luxury Spa robe & slippers ∙ Delicious afternoon tea served in the Spa ∙ Four hours use of our indoor Spa wet area and outside facilities (pool & beach) Luxury Clarins Spa Day QAR 1,200 per person * ∙ Choose from two 60 minute treatments of your choice, including a luxury Spa robe & slippers ∙ A fabulous two-course light lunch, served in our Spa’s Vitamin Café ∙ Full day (10:00 am - 4:00 pm) use of our indoor Spa wet area and outside facilities (pool & beach) * Offers valid from Sunday to Thursday. Terms & conditions apply Opening Hours Spa by Clarins is open every day from 9am to 10pm Contacts For booking or further enquiries, please contact us: +974 4035 5555 | spa.marsamalaz@kempinski.com www.kempinski.com/marsamalaz/spa

www.ohlala-magazine.com

35

BEAUTY Boutiques

ROYAL RECESS

“DIVA LOUNGE SPA was born out of a desire to provide women in Qatar with a holistic approach to wellness based on relaxing treatments that balance the body, calm the mind and revive the soul, in an environment that combines style, efficiency and serenity”...Well, these ladies certainly speak the truth as our lovely POOJA ADAM (@lesrebellesquad) discovered.

I

walked into Tawar Mall for my appointment with sheer excitement after hearing a plethora of fabulous feedback from my peers, well, I just couldn’t wait to try it out for myself! The welcoming staff gave me a hot ginger tea whilst we assessed the areas I wanted to focus on during my treatments. My session started with a tour of the spa, showcasing their services from hair care to their Hammam; they have something for all of our beauty needs! I was personally in the mood for some pre-birthday pampering and I admonish you to treat yourselves whatever the date. Using the four elements as the theme for each of their treatment rooms, I was taken to the ‘Fire’ room for my massage and the ‘Wind’ room for my personalised facial and mani/pedi treatments. I was pleased to see that they had packages for parties and I would surely consider going back with a friend for my next visit.

In the candle lit ‘Fire’ room there was a pretty set-up for the massage which made me feel instantaneously relaxed. I was given time to change into a fluffy robe and ‘take off the day’ as my masseuse began my treatment with a foot bathing ritual - given that my masseuse was Thai I knew that I was in good hands. The Full Body Aromatic Thai Massage was done to perfection, focusing on my targeted areas with medium pressure allowed my knots to 36

www.ohlala-magazine.com

surrender. There was a series of stretches to invigorate and energise my body as the masseuse helped me achieve intense stretches and curves pushing me further than what I would normally attempt by myself. As the treatment drew to a close, ending with a mini head massage, I had mentally transported to my Thailand trip from last year when I had experienced a similar massage.

Post massage, I was taken to my next treatment in the ‘Wind’ room where my beauty therapist completed a skin assessment to gauge the best facial recommended for my skin type. This level of service assured me that I was being given a personalised service catered to my individual needs for which I was very grateful. I have sensitive skin so I am very careful of what I put on my face! I indulged in a vitamin C facial using only the finest natural products. As a natural skincare lover I was really pleased with the results as every layer of treatment was precisely undertaken, I could certainly feel my face getting that deeply polished feeling. Hours after my facial I just couldn’t stop admiring my covetable dewy glow.

Before they began my facial I had realised that I was running short of time and the beauty therapist suggested that I receive my Spa Mani/Pedi treatment during my facial. I was so glad that they could offer the services at the same time and I happily agreed. Whilst my facial was in motion I had two additional therapists working on my hands and feet, giving me a princess experience like no other! It was my first time trying out the paraffin wax mani and pedi and to my delight I felt as though my hands and feet were having a spa of their own. My hands and feet came out softer and sparkling whilst my nails were camera ready! As I came out of the spa I felt like a unicorn having been so spoilt by the Diva lounge team throughout all of my treatments. Due to the long lasting results of their services I have to say it’s really worth a visit and I am already planning my next trip. Tawar mall is their latest location but with five salons around Doha you truly don’t have any excuse NOT to pamper yourself. @diva_lounge_spa

www.ohlala-magazine.com

37

BEAUTY Boutiques

ABOVE AND BEYOND Chic and Posh Beauty Lounge is a glamorous world of beauty services and a dedicated patron to the latest beauty trends. Our now perfectly manicured hands will certainly point you in the right direction‌

C

hic and Posh Beauty Salon was created in 2013 to fill the niche in the market for a high standard, fully functional beauty lounge for charming women. The name was inspired by the services and professional therapists that are individually created for their treasured clientele. So, it comes as no surprise that their salon quickly expanded from a small team and is continuing to evolve to fit the Posh customer needs.

As you open their doors you enter their universe of outstanding professional Hair Care, Beauty Services and the most luxurious face, body, and nail treatments. Experience proficiency, creativity and pampering in one exclusive location. Let them reveal your true beauty. The inimitable elegant decor and fascinating ambiance signify the superior quality of their services. The Lounge is home to a team of innovative and dedicated stylists and specialised face and body

38

www.ohlala-magazine.com

professionals to provide you with the finest services and latest techniques.

Their Philosophy is geared toward future growth and security through teamwork, education, fulfillment and change.

Indulge yourself in a range of enticing treatments within the calm oasis of Chic and Posh Beauty Lounge. Their comprehensive menu of head-to-toe treatments are guaranteed to deliver dazzling results whilst their holistic approach to hair and beauty means that you will never leave feeling short of amazing.

Get pampering! @chicandposhbeauty

THE BUBBALICIOUS BRUNCH EXTRAVAGANZA Get ready to brunch like you’ve never before.

Be part of the stylish, funky, and vibrant Bubbalicious brunch every Friday.

Packages start from QR 340 Seasonal Tastes, The Westin Doha Hotel & Spa Call 3359 8514 or email dining.doha@westin.com for more information

www.ohlala-magazine.com

39

‫للخــياطة الرجالــية‬

‫كـالسيـك‬

Classic Man for Tailoring

Tel. 4421 9357

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

40

www.ohlala-magazine.com

ohlala arabia.indd 1

89

10/22/15 2:30 PM

T HE N I K W S S I Y T H EW

LA NATURAL GLO R A

, ESH W

SH FRWE IPE

CED A FTE CLEAN WITH F

D www.ohlala-magazine.com

41

BEAUTY Buzz

NAMSHI, MALIN + GOETZ HAIR POMADE

K+N++RASTASE - CHROMATIQUE - FLACON TRANSLUCIDE DETOX SHAMPOO

COLOR WOW AVAILABLE ON OUNASS.COM

COLOR WOW AVAILABLE ON OUNASS.COM

MORNING RENEW CREME

AESOP HAIR VIOLET LEAF BALM

AVEDA VIBRANT HAIR

AESOP HAIR NUTURING CONDITIONER PHILIP KINGSLEY AVAILABLE ON OUNASS. COM

AESOP HAIR ROSE SCALPMASQUE

OTHER STORIES, RESTORE SHAMPOO AESOP HAIR NUTURING SHAMPOO

OTHER STORIES, RESTORE HAIR SERUM

LUSCIOUS LOCKS ACHIEVE PERFECT STRANDS WITH OUR SELECTION OF THE BEST SHAMPOOS, CONDITIONERS, MASKS, AND SERUMS.

GHD AVAILABLE ON OUNASS.COM

DIAMOND DUST CONDITIONER

OTHER STORIES, RESTORE SCALP SCRUB 42

www.ohlala-magazine.com

PHILIP KINGSLEY AVAILABLE ON OUNASS.COM

MAGIC RETOUCH

RAHUA AVAILABLE ON OUNASS.COM

www.ohlala-magazine.com

43

BEAUTY Focus

Invisible Make-up SINCE ITS CREATION IN 2000, GIORGIO ARMANI BEAUTY HAS BEEN THE EXPERT IN EMPOWERING WOMEN TO ACHIEVE A FLAWLESS COMPLEXION WITH A COMPLETELY NATURAL RESULT, GUIDED BY THE PHILOSOPHY OF ULTIMATE BEAUTY. NOW GIORGIO ARMANI BEAUTY INTRODUCES A COMPLETE NEO NUDE RANGE FOR SKIN, CHEEKS AND LIPS, WITH THE PROMISE OF “NO MAKE-UP MAKE-UP” PERFECTION: A PERFECTION THAT LOOKS REAL. INVISIBLE, MISTAKE-PROOF, SENSORIAL – IT DELIVERS EVERYTHING A WOMAN NEEDS TO FEEL CONFIDENT AND TO EMBODY THE SIGNATURE ARMANI GLOW. 44

www.ohlala-magazine.com

LA MANO BELLA

www.ohlala-magazine.com

45

BEAUTY Focus

LA Style

& OTHER STORIES HAS JUST INTRODUCED A BRAND-NEW CONCEPT TO THEIR BELOVED BEAUTY ASSORTMENT WITH A BRILLIANT HAIR CARE RANGE. WITH AN EXTENSIVE SELECTION OF HIGHPERFORMANCE PRODUCTS, RANGING FROM SHAMPOO, CONDITIONER AND SCALP SCRUB, TO THICKENING CREAM, BLOWOUT LOTION AND BEACH SPRAY, THE NEW HAIR CARE RANGE OFFERS SOMETHING FOR EVER HAIR TYPE. THE NEW HAIR CARE RANGE WAS DEVELOPED BY & OTHER STORIES’ IN-HOUSE TEAM TOGETHER WITH LA-BASED, CELEBRITY HAIR STYLIST, KYLEE HEATH, AN EXPERT ON RED CARPET AND QUINTESSENTIAL LA STYLE. THE RANGE INCLUDES THREE CATEGORIES: RESTORE, UNIVERSAL AND FULLNESS. THE COLLECTION ALLOWS YOU TO CREATE THE LOOK YOU DESIRE – HAIR WITH BOUNCE, BODY, TEXTURE, UNDONE CURLS, TOUSLED WAVES, SHINE OR SMOOTHNESS. 46

www.ohlala-magazine.com

Head to the most relaxing spot in town and enjoy a breakfast for champions, daily happy hours, Thursday night BBQ’s and lively Friday brunches.

Our outdoor terrace is now open, perfect for your evening gatherings!

OPEN DAILY FROM 6AM UNTIL MIDNIGHT

PLEASE CALL 4448 1240 FOR BOOKINGS GRAND HYATT DOHA HOTEL & VILLAS WEST BAY LAGOON, P.O. BOX 24010, DOHA, STATE OF QATAR SANTA MONICA BREAKFAST CLUB DOHA

SMBCDoha

www.ohlala-magazine.com

47

BEAUTY Insight

TOP

TRESSES When Nancy Twine launched her hair care line, Briogeo, at cosmetics retailer Sephora in 2013, she was the youngest African-American woman ever to have her products grace the beauty giant’s shelves. Angela Beitz talks to her about her launch into the Middle East.

48

www.ohlala-magazine.com

N

ot many people would consider taking the leap of faith from a high-paying Wall Street career into the risk-laden world of a natural beauty entrepreneur, but Nancy Twine, ‘green beauty

expert’ and founder and CEO of Briogeo Hair Care, did just that and quickly discovered her true calling. Twine didn’t simply set out to make natural shampoos and conditioners, free of harsh chemicals and ingredients: She wanted to develop products that actually worked as well as every competing brand on the market, natural or otherwise. Briogeo is now the fastest-growing hair care brand at Sephora and is on track to earn $35 million in retail sales in 2018.

Relying on her traditional, modest roots and deep passion for clean beauty, Nancy vacated her position as Vice President of the Commodities Sales division at Goldman Sachs, to follow her dream of becoming a natural beauty entrepreneur.

What inspired you to start Briogeo?

Briogeo was inspired by my family tradition of formulating personal care products from scratch at home, using recipes passed down through generations. In an effort to cut costs in supporting a tribe of eight, my grandmother developed her own soaps, lotions, and hair care products using only kitchen essentials, which became wildly popular throughout the community in West Virginia.

GHOSON SPA

Phone No. 4444 1991/44551991

E-Mail: infoghoson.com

www.ohlala-magazine.com

49

image source: Fotolia Africa Studio

Ultimate relaxation in an opulent atmosphere

BEAUTY Insight

“It’s the number one best-selling shampoo and conditioner right now. I think in terms of natural products is about awareness, so many products are filled with parabens and things you don’t need.”

Would you say your grandmother is your biggest inspiration?

Absolutely, she gave me the knowledge behind clean, beautiful products and this set in motion a desire to inspire women to be mindful of health and wellness. I saw that there was a really big opportunity for a brand to really own that category in hair care because unlike skincare, makeup and body care, there was really no one doing what we’re doing now, which is bridging the gap between truly clean hair care products and high performance.

How does it feel to be stocked in Sephora?

It feels amazing and it really is such an honour and it has been a real game changer for me. They are such an incredible retailer and a prestigious brand and they have been so supportive. Its hard when you are a new brand and it’s been amazing to actually go into the stores in NYC (where I live) and see people shopping the brand.

What is the most popular product and why are natural products so important?

Typically, our masks is our number one best-selling product, but we just launched a really new innovative collection, which was our 50

www.ohlala-magazine.com

Superfoods collection. It’s the number one best-selling shampoo and conditioner right now. I think in terms of natural products is about awareness, so many products are filled with parabens and things you don’t need. I know in this region there are also issues with water and hair loss and that on its own is a big enough issue without adding unwanted chemicals to your hair.

Available at Sephora, www.briogeohair.com

www.ohlala-magazine.com

51

BEAUTY Column

BEST TRESSED A lustrous head of hair is indicative of a healthy life and a good hair care routine is important especially coming into the winter months. Angela Beitz talks through the key factors to achieving strong, healthy strands.

GET REGULAR TRIMS

Regular trimming preserves length, while getting rid of split ends caused by environmental damage, such as physical stress or hot tools.

If left too long split ends can work their way up the hair shaft and create dry, brittle and fragile strands. Waiting too long in between trims, means you’ll have to sacrifice length when you do eventually get your hair cut.

DO A WEEKLY TREATMENT

A weekly deep-conditioning treatment, is important for all hair types and essential particularly in this environment as we are exposed to strong sun, dry air and air-conditioning. If your hair is coloured, fine or curly it’s even more important and you can even do the treatment twice a week. Pay particular attention to the ends as thats where your hair is most fragile.

SHAMPOO WISELY

When it comes to choosing a shampoo and conditioner, look to sulfatefree and paraben-free formulas that aren’t as drying to preserve moisture and be sure to also choose the right products for your hair type Massage the scalp while lathering to increase blood flow and stimulate the hair follicles, which promotes growth.

CHECK YOUR DIET

The healthiest diet for your hair is one that is based on real, whole foods and mostly plant-based. Foods rich in iron, zinc, vitamin C, B vitamins, and omega-3 are most commonly linked to stronger and longer hair. Stock up on foods includes seafood, beans, spinach and eggs for protein, leafy greens for vitamin C and wild salmon and nuts for omega-3 fats.

TRY A SUPPLEMENT

Biotin is the go-to when thinking about hair supplements, but most people already get enough biotin in their diet. BioSil is worth a try which contains ch-OSA, a trademarked combination of essential nutrients and minerals, that’s clinically shown to increase hair thickness, making it more resilient and shiny. And more than a few backstage experts and supermodels swear by Viviscal, a popular hair-growth vitamin that also contains silicon, along with amino acids and horsetail extract.

52

www.ohlala-magazine.com

GIVENCHY

A N E W E S CA P E FROM THE CITY

t i vo l i h o t e l s .c o m P.O. Box 81038, Al Wakra, Qatar T: +974 4428 7888 | souqalwakra@tivolihotels.com

www.ohlala-magazine.com

53

BEAUTY Boutiques

PURR-FECT PAMPERING FIFTY ONE EAST celebrates the opening of the first HELLO KITTY BEAUTY SPA in Qatar at Lagoona Mall.

F

ifty One East, Qatar’s favourite department store, celebrated the grand opening of the first Hello Kitty Beauty Spa, with a ribbon-cutting ceremony under the patronage of His Excellency Mr. Seiichi Otsuka, Ambassador of Japan to the State of Qatar and officiated by key figures including Mr. Bader Abdullah AlDarwish, Chairman and Managing Director of Fifty One East, key guests and media representatives.

The new beauty spa is located on the first floor of Lagoona Mall, and has been specially designed to provide a range of services and treatments to Queens and their little Princesses. The new Spa offers a mother-and-daughter experience like no other, with young girls getting the same signature treatments as grownups – from manicure and pedicure to full make-up using organic products.

Hello Kitty Beauty Spa is an innovative brand which aims to provide luxury pampering services and day spa packages to women of all ages.

Mr. Bader Abdullah Al-Darwish, Chairman and Managing Director of Fifty One East said, “We are delighted to bring Hello Kitty Beauty Spa to Lagoona Mall to entice our patrons in Qatar. The new spa operates within the highest standards and in a modern facility medium ensuring a lavish experience to our clientele. This addition to our portfolio further emphasises our promise to offer our customers an unparalleled service and expertise.”

54

www.ohlala-magazine.com

H.E. Seiichi Otsuka, Ambassador of Japan to the State of Qatar said, “Qatar and Japan have had blooming relationship through the past years by strengthening the ties in various sectors. The opening of the first Hello Kitty Beauty Spa here in Lagoona Mall further reiterates this bond and we are looking forward for more projects to come.”

Inspired by globally recognised Hello Kitty patterns and fabrics, and using a chic interior design style, the spa epitomises the famous fictional character. It offers a wide range of services such as haircut, manicures, pedicure, waxing and facials, as well as a variety of birthday bundle packages for Hello Kitty Beauty Spa Queens and Princesses, either individually or as a mother-daughter experience In addition to the vast array of traditional hair and beauty services, guests can refuel with a selection of hot and cold beverages including the Hello Kitty cupcakes and cookies available at a dedicated café.

The new Hello Kitty Beauty Spa is a destination that defines exclusive posh pampering - It’s all about sugar, spice and everything incredibly nice! The spa approaches pampering in a positive way that would let you have fun, boost your inner beauty, make you feel great and let your inner princess or queen dazzle. @hellokittyspaqatar / @51_east

Turkey takeaway From November 8th until 29th Take away a delicious autumn feast.

R

8 KG

0

6 4

7-

Q

Q

R

5 KG

0

4-

98

Including traditional sides

Call 4429 8499 to place your order

D O H A M A R R I OT T H OT E L RAS ABU ABOOD STREET BUILDING 2, STREET 920, ZONE 28 P.O. BOX 1911, DOHA, QATAR | P: +974 4429 8888 www.dohamarriott.com

Terms and conditions apply. Orders should be placed 48 hours in advance.

www.ohlala-magazine.com

55

BEAUTY Boutiques

THE GREAT ESCAPE

MICHELLE REYNOLDS, Spa Director at SPA BY CLARINS at MARSA MALAZ KEMPINSKI reveals why we should all invest in a little bit of R&R at the heart of Doha.

Maldives we had an ayurvedic practitioner and the massage was wonderful.

How does SPA BY CLARINS AT MARSA MALAZ KEMPINSKI differ from other spas here in Qatar?

We are the only Spa in Doha that is exclusively Clarins, we have regular training from Paris and our therapists are experts. Clarins is a very well recognised European brand who invest a lot of time and money into their skin and treatment research, our products are superior yet affordable. We pride ourselves in offering affordable packages for guests during the week and always focus on how we look after our guests, not forgetting that we have a beautiful Hotel, Spa and facilities.

MORNING ESCAPE OFFER

Tell us a little bit about yourself I love my job, and of course, spas! I am fiercely passionate about this industry as I feel that a spa can genuinely help people relax and help to create a better state of mind. In today’s world we all suffer from stress and demands of both family and work life and I feel that experiencing the correct spa environment can relax you and help you to de-stress. My mission is always related to customer service and how we treat our guests and my personal mission is to make sure that all my staff are happy and well, because if they Are truly looked after then they will look after our guests. My passion is exercise as I believe that this is a wonderful productive way to keep young, keep motivated and remain positive.

How long have you been in the spa industry, and how long have you been the Spa Director at Marsa Malaz Kempinski?

I have been in the Health and Spa Industry for 20 years. I started at the bottom, both in the fitness and wellness industry, teaching classes and providing treatments as well as doing all the menial tasks like cleaning the treatment rooms and surrounding facilities. I am proud that this is the way that I have evolved my work ethos as it gives me the empathy and understanding of what I am asking my staff to do on a daily basis.

What are the most challenging and rewarding parts of your role?

The most challenging part of my job is to be desk bound sometimes as I love to talk to guests and interact with staff.

What is your favourite treatment to receive?

I love a facial as I find it very relaxing! However, when I was working in the 56

www.ohlala-magazine.com

Short on time but big on relaxation? If you can’t spare the whole day, then our Morning Escape offer for QAR 350 per person is a fantastic choice for you!

This experience includes: ● A 30 minute back massage or reflexology session ● Two hours use of our indoor Spa wet area or outside facilities (pool & beach) ● A luxury Spa robe, slippers, a newspaper and a choice of a hot drink as well as a pastry or muffin *Offer is available from Sunday to Wednesday 10:00 – 16:00 & Thursday 10:00 – 14:00. *Offer is subject to availability, terms & conditions apply.

LUXURY AFTERNOON TEA SPA DAY Luxury Afternoon Tea Spa Day by Clarins offer for QAR 600 per person is a half day Spa experience; a real treat for those looking to indulge in some precious ‘’me-time’’!

This experience includes: ● A 60 minute massage of your choice including a luxury Spa robe and slippers ● Delicious afternoon tea served in the Spa ● Four hours use of our indoor Spa wet area and outside facilities (pool & beach) *Offer is available from Sunday to Wednesday 10:00 – 17:00 & Thursday until 14:00. *Offer is subject to availability, terms & conditions apply.

For more information or reservations, please contact spa.marsamalaz@ kempinski.com or +974 4035 5555. @marsamalaz / @spabyclarins.qa

www.ohlala-magazine.com

57

HEALTH Files

S MIND FULL OF PRESENCE Anahi Brown spotlights how we can all benefit from powering our days with Meditation and we’re already feeling productive.

low down. Take a breath. Catch yourself in the now. Are you well? Are you happy?

Many times, we go through life rushing and running, taking shallow breaths on each step we take, not engaging fully in what it is that we’re living through, what we’re feeling, what we’re creating; that is until it’s too late.

How many times have you put your head on the pillow at night, only to realise that the whole day has been a full blur. Colours, faces, tasks, thoughts.

All completed, passed by, all left you drained yet unfulfilled, almost as if they never happened at all.

This is what Mindfulness combats: a notion that busy, stressed and overstretched is synonym of status and achievement, the myth that Busyness means Business. Now, you might be rolling your eyes right now and thinking: “I am TOO busy to book time for meditation. I mean, who has time to sit and do nothing?” to which I can easily answer this: Most high-achievers, shakers and makers do, because they KNOW that committing to that time of doing nothing is precisely what helps them accomplish more.

Don’t believe me? I can easily drop names and names of the countless celebrities and entrepreneurs who, in between fittings, extensive workout sessions and billionaire board meetings, sit down for anywhere between 20 and 60 minutes each day and focus on filling their minds with presence in the now, moment by moment, using meditation to fuel their greatness.

Between the countless benefits that a mindfulness practice offers are: - Decrease stress and lower cortisol levels in the body - Enhance mental health and cognitive performance - Improve emotional self-regulation and response - Improve hormonal health and immunity - Lower heart rate and blood pressure - Increase life satisfaction and a sense of wellbeing In fact, Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) programs have been among the most researched and reviewed protocols in the Psychological and Neurological field in the last decade, with countless studies and peer reviewed experiments that show how engaging in what experts call Formal Practice for only 20 minutes each day for 8 weeks does to our brains and bodies.

The MBSR programs have been proven to be ideal in preventing relapses in depression, as well as offering great relief tools for patients struggling with chronic illnesses or pain, as well as other challenging conditions.

It’s superpower? Shifting the attention from the noise of the to-do’s or the immediate emotion and the story we elaborate about it, to the full experience, detaching from it and noticing judgment as we validate it, fully present. By slowing down, we empty our brains and hearts and begin to process fully and move on.

If this sounds like exactly what you’re looking for as you prepare to close 2018 on a high note, there are apps like Headspace (headspace.com), ‘Unplug: Guided Meditation’ (you can download it from ITunes) and Calm (calm.com) which offer amazing beginner programs to get you started.

So remember, the next time you’re connected to a big emotions or feeling completely stressed and drained, before you react, stop, take a deep breath in, and create a mind full of presence to go back towards a peaceful mental space. @anahibrown.coach

58

www.ohlala-magazine.com

www.ohlala-magazine.com

59

HEALTH Files

ALL THE WAY UP Qatar’s first exclusive ladies only social club, THE VENUE is now open for the chosen few for all things wellness and leisure.

Qatar’s most prestigious VVIP ladies only social club has finally arrived in The Pearl. More than just an exclusive female only social club, its unique concept centers around five elements of each letter of the VENUE created specifically to produce positive life-altering transformations.

Vibrant - The Venue is full of life where you can create the vibrant lifestyle you imagine living with your family and friends in an exclusive place.

Elegant - The club is beautifully designed to the taste of Qatar’s most elite ladies.

Niche - The Venue is tailored specifically in providing high quality luxurious services to VVIP members.

Unique - Qatar’s first and only ladies social club Exquisite - Discover the true meaning of beauty through extensive range of VVIP services The Venue offers a variety of wellness and leisure services that every VVIP lady in Qatar will enjoy and love all in one exclusive place. The club includes the latest fitness machines in the world where ladies can train privately with family members, friends, or even just by themselves along with the best view of Qatar at the Pearl.

Members are welcome to join the personal training program with internationally qualified female personal trainers flown in from across the globe for faster MORE THAN JUST A fitness results. Complimentary FITNESS CLUB, THE FACILITY INCLUDES access to the trendiest fitness THE MOST LUXURIOUS classes are also offered in the FEATURES, RELAXING club for ladies who enjoy variety JACUZZI AND and a challenge.

DETOXIFYING SAUNA. Workshops and masterclasses on health and beauty are provided to educate and inspire members following a healthy lifestyle.

More than just a fitness club, there is a deluxe lounge where ladies can gather and create beautiful memories with friends and family members whilst being served 60

www.ohlala-magazine.com

refreshing drinks and delicious healthy snacks. As a fully equipped social club, a salon and spa are also opening soon in the same facility.

Every member of the social club will receive complimentary access to the 8th floor outdoor pool overlooking the beautiful Doha skyline. Members will also have access to VIP services such as valet parking, high quality brands and products as guest amenities, fresh signature drinks and more.

Limited number of members and a one year only membership availability is offered to secure the exclusiveness and VIP feel for the members.

“It is more than just a fitness or a leisure facility, it is a real VIP Only Ladies Social Club and our aim is to make our members experience the sense of well-being, to unwind and to be at ease just like as it is their second home. “ Active Head of Operations, Najat Khana shared.

The Venue is located at the 8th floor, Abraj Quartier Tower 1, The Pearl.

For more information, call 33366855 / www.mtm-global.com FB: @thevenueqatar and IG: @thevenueqtr

MORE THAN JUST A FITNESS CLUB, THE FACILITY INCLUDES THE MOST LUXURIOUS JACUZZI AND SAUNA.

EVERY MEMBER OF THE SOCIAL CLUB WILL RECEIVE FREE ACCESS TO THE 8TH FLOOR OUTDOOR POOL OVERLOOKING THE BEAUTIFUL DOHA SKYLINE.

THE VENUE PROVIDES THE WORLD’S MOST CUTTING-EDGE METHODS www.ohlala-magazine.com 61 AND MOST ADVANCED TECHNOLOGIES.

DETOXIFY YOUR BODY IN THE SPACIOUS SAUNA & LEAVE THE CLUB FEELING FRESHER & YOUNGER!

ENJOY THE PINK STATEOF-THE-ART STRENGTH & CONDITIONING ROOM.

DESIGNATED ULTRAMODERN SPINNING ROOM FOR QATAR’S MOST SENSATIONAL SPINNING CLASSES.

RELAX YOUR MUSCLES AFTER AN INTENSE TRAINING SESSION IN THE LUXURIOUS JACUZZI!

A LUXURIOUS HEALTH AND BEAUTY SPA IS COMING SOON FOR THE LADIES WHO LIKE TO RELAX AND BE PAMPERED AFTER A STRENUOUS WORKOUT.

TONE YOUR62BODY AS YOU SEE FIT www.ohlala-magazine.com AT DUHAIL’S BIGGEST LADIES ONLY FITNESS CLUB.

KEEP YOUR HEART RATE UP AT AN INDOOR RUNNING TRACK.

HEALTH Files

WHO RUNS THE WORLD?

Duhail’s biggest female only fitness club MTM Active Ladies makes a mark on the health industry and it has most definitely...arrived.

MEMBERS CAN ENJOY REFRESHING DRINKS AND HEALTHY SNACKS THAT PROVIDE ENERGY FOR YOUR DAILY EXERCISES.

M

TM Active Ladies recently opened in Duhail, a one-stop fitness club where the ladies of Qatar can enjoy every fitness and wellness service in one place.

The facility carries state-of-the-art gym equipment for every kind of training while unlimited fun and exciting fitness classes are offered for the ladies who enjoy variety in their training. Classes are tailored for ladies of all fitness levels from beginners, intermediate and advanced, ensuring that every lady is welcome to join.

After a strenuous workout, members can rejuvenate in the luxurious jacuzzi and sauna. There is also a deluxe lounge where ladies can enjoy refreshing juices and healthy snacks.

The most in demand fitness club also offers one-on-one personal training for the ladies who prefer private training sessions. To accelerate and maximize fitness results, the nutrition department provides customised food plans as an additional service.

More than just a gym, a luxurious spa will be opening soon where both members and non-members can come in for a relaxing session.

MTM Active Ladies is located between Landmark and Tawar Malls.

For more info, please call 66488189. @MTMActiveLadies / www.mtm-global.com

SERVICES:

“MTM Active Ladies is truly the newest home for fitness-oriented ladies to gather and share the same passion and love for fitness,” Active Head of Operations, Najat Khana shared..

-FULLY EQUIPPED GYM -TRENDY GROUP CLASSES -DESIGNATED STRENGTH AND CONDITIONING ROOM -ULTRAMODERN SPINNING ROOM -REJUVENATING JACUZZI -MUSCLE RELAXING SAUNA AND STEAM ROOM -INTERNATIONAL TEAM OF CERTIFIED PERSONAL TRAINERS -NUTRITION CONSULTATION -IN-BODY ANALYSIS -SPA & CROSSFIT OPENING SOON

www.ohlala-magazine.com

63

RETAIL

ICON SALAM STORES INTRODUCE THEIR ‘WE TAKE CARE OF YOU’ SERVICE CAMPAIGN AND A CAPTIVATING FW18 COLLECTION SHOWCASING AN UNRIVALLED PORTFOLIO OF BRANDS THAT HAVE US EFFORTLESSLY REACHING FOR OUR PURSES.

Salam Stores have offered a solution to all of our shopping faux pas with their ‘WE TAKE CARE OF YOU’ retail services. We bow down to this incredibly helpful programme that takes the stress out of shopping as it offers up an unparalleled Personal Shopper experience where expert shoppers do all the hard work for you! The luxury doesn’t stop there as they can also provide a unique Styling Consultation; delving into your wardrobe to refresh a collaboration of old and new styles.Your skin and make-up woes are also catered for amidst a Fragrance Journey where relevant brand experts provide in-depth consultations so you’ll forever be red-carpet ready.

With the added bonus of Home Delivery or their oh-so-amazing Shop From Home access you can maintain your fabulous prowess no matter the social calendar. Specifically tailored to your shopping needs, whether you’re looking for pieces for yourself or gifts for other people, Salam Stores is the ultimate icon that we all need in our lives.

PHOTOGRAPHER : PASQUALE ABBATTISTA MAKE UP : COSETTA GIORGETTI HAIR STYLING : ROBERTO NARDOZZI STYLING : DIMITRI FIOCCO 64

www.ohlala-magazine.com

OVERCOAT : BURBERRY DRESS : BURBERRY SCARF : PAUL SMITH HAT : PS PAUL SMITH MAKE-UP : TOM FORD AVAILABLE AT SALAM STORES

www.ohlala-magazine.com

65

DRESS : TEMPERLEY LONDON SCARF : TEMPERLEY LONDON BAG: N°21 SHOES: N°21 SUNGLASSES: HAZE MAKE-UP : TOM FORD AVAILABLE AT SALAM STORES

66

www.ohlala-magazine.com

www.ohlala-magazine.com

67

SUIT : ERMENEGILDO ZEGNA PULLOVER : ERMENEGILDO ZEGNA AVAILABLE AT ERMENEGILDO ZEGNA STORE AT THE GATE MALL 68

www.ohlala-magazine.com

DRESS: OLYMPIA SANCHIS BROOCH : ROCHAS MAKE-UP : TOM FORD AVAILABLE AT SALAM STORES

www.ohlala-magazine.com

69

70

www.ohlala-magazine.com

DRESS: ISABEL SANCHIS SHOES : AQUAZZURA MAKE-UP : TOM FORD AVAILABLE AT SALAM STORES www.ohlala-magazine.com

71

LUXURY HAVEN

Experience luxury hotel spa treatments in Doha like never before at Spa InterContinental Doha.

Y

ou don’t always remember what you said but you definitely remember how you feel when you reflect on certain experiences of your life - this is one of them. You know from the moment you step into Spa InterContinental you become submissive to their alluring journey of genuine tranquility in the luxurious privacy of their spa sanctuary, mixing unique, natural elements from Europe with premium cosmopolitan products to optimise your beauty and wellness.

Allow them to develop your personal treatment program based upon their wealth of experience, relaxation and their resounding results.

Featuring a luxurious setting with utmost privacy, Spa InterContinental brings you exclusive facilities such as 16 lavish treatment rooms and couple suites, private indoor pool, relaxation rooms, juice bar, sauna and Jacuzzi, and the unique Spa Wave Bed and Quartz Bed - all exquisitely design to bring pampering to the next level in Doha. Let their team of highly-skilled therapists take you on a journey of genuine tranquility with the use of exclusive European products such as Natura Bissé, Baija Paris, and Intraceuticals.

Check in to one of their luxurious guest rooms with modern design and an Arabesque flair and look forward to a getaway like no other. Be pampered by a treatment of your choice at the exclusive Spa InterContinental, where genuine relaxation awaits. Stay rejuvenated with a host of in-spa facilities including a private indoor pool, Jacuzzi and sauna, relaxation rooms, a healthy juice bar, or check out the exclusive spa suite to have a massage on the first-of-its-kind Spa Wave Bed or Quartz Bed. 72

www.ohlala-magazine.com

ABOUT SPA INTERCONTINENTAL’S PRODUCTS NATURA BISSÉ As one of the World’s most exclusive brands, Natura Bissé is an innovative leader in the development of high performance skin-care products that are formulated with maximum concentrations of new ingredients and emulsions.

INTRACEUTICALS Intraceuticals is an Australian company specialising in oxygen technology.

This professional skincare range uses the powerful effects of oxygen.

BAIJA PARIS BAIJA Paris is a natural and sensorial cosmetic brand with organic ingredients. Inspired by Emotions. BAIJA Paris stimulates sensorial memories, a journey, a fragrance, a childhood memory, a familiar face. All BAIJA products come from a French fabrication incorporating ingredients from all over the world. Each fragrance and texture creates an emotion and tells its story reminding us of ours. BAIJA is an invitation to a world of emotions.

HEALTH Files CURRENT PROMOTIONS SPA INDULGENCE Immerse yourself in the luxury of Spa InterContinental. Experience the unique essence of premium European products such as Baija Paris, Natura Bissé, Intraceuticals all year long with the exclusive SPA INDULGENCE PACKAGE at the promotional rate of QR 6,000 instead of QR 13,620.

THIS EXQUISITELY CRAFTED PROGRAM INCLUDES: One 90-minute “Signature Spa InterContinental Massage” by Baija Paris One 60-minute “Heavenly Relaxing Massage” by Baija Paris One 60-minute “Essential Shock” Facial by Natura Bissé One 60-minute “Clarity Infusion” Facial by Intraceuticals One 60-minute “Detox Marine Essence” body treatment by Natura Bissé One 30-minute “Essential Eyes” by Natura Bissé One hair spa treatment with blow dry by L’Oréal at Elie & Ralph Salon One weekend beach access for two persons Unlimited access to the Spa InterContinental Wet Facilities ●30% discount on the Spa Menu 20% discount at Elie & Ralph Salon 10% discount in their award-winning restaurants VALID FOR ONE YEAR FROM DATE OF PURCHASE

TREATMENTS SPA ESCAPADE Tailor your own spa experience with a combination of 30 - 60 minute treatments of your choice. Curate your own spa journey for only QR 825, instead of QR 1,350, with an exclusive 30% promotional discount.

60-minute treatments: Balinese, Heavenly Massage, Swedish, Foot Reflexology and an Intraceuticals Facial 30-minute treatments: Body scrub, body wrap, eye treatments,or a foot massage

HOLLYWOOD FACIALS BY INTRACEUTICALS The much-loved facial treatment by Hollywood A-listers. Experience any 60 or 80-minute Hollywood Facial at 50% off.

YOUR WEEKDAY, UPGRADED Relax in the private haven of Spa InterContinental during weekdays and enjoy 30% off on a la carte treatments and 20% off on our curated packages.

For more information, call Spa InterContinental at +974 4484 4060 or email spa.icdoha@ihg.com @intercontinentaldoha

www.ohlala-magazine.com

73

REGIONAL Escapes

CENTRAL DREAMING When your next staycation comes calling and what you really want is a great location with all the benefits of being in a resort, think about the heart of west bay and the towering City Centre Rotana Doha. we stayed at the popular hotel on a muchneeded break from the bustle – yet close to all of doha’s best attractions…

After having stayed in hundreds of hotels, it takes a lot to make us feel at our most comfortable. Especially when it comes to city hotels, creating that balance of comfort with convenience is a task that can be difficult. However, we found just the place that manages to tick both of these boxes… and so many more.

Walking into the City Centre Rotana Doha we find a beautiful lobby that, at the time of our visit, had an influx of international sports teams checking in for tournaments in Doha. Well, if it’s good enough for them – it’ll do us just fine!

Check in is fast and efficient, and we whizz up to our King Premium Room to find a very large, neutrally decorated room that has sunlight pouring in through its floor to ceiling windows and pretty much every amenity you could ask for from a 5-star hotel – we’re off to a good start!

It’s clear to see the upscale surroundings of City Centre Rotana Doha in every essence of the property. The elegant 381 guest rooms, suites and apartments are spread over 47 floors, all offering snapchat-worthy views of either the stunning Arabian Gulf sea and/ or the city skyline.

A fresh palette of colours reveals a room that immediately calls to our relaxation needs.

It’s the perfect blend of creams, subtle beige and browns, and perfectly placed lamps for mood lighting which accompany the airy vibe.

Each 50sqm premium room offers picturesque views of the city. You’ll find all your usual amenities like a well-stocked mini bar, tea and coffee making facilities, and Wireless Internet connection. On top this, a state-of-the-art, multi-channel 42” LCD television, bedside guest digital assistants, bathrobes and hairdryer, iron and ironing board and plenty of fresh towels will add to making you stay as comfortable as possible.

Distinct design features include a recessed closet system that conceals shelving, drawers, mini bar, and personal in-room safe – we like the practicality of the design, which leaves the guest with more space to enjoy. The bathrooms were also a practical solution with good space and amenities to make sure your warm soak or hot shower is the best it can be!

During our stay, we went to check out the 24th floor Club Rotana Lounge, which offers everything from welcome drinks upon check-in, elcome amenities in the room, complimentary breakfast served in the comfort of the lounge or at Olive Oil - All Day Dining, complimentary afternoon tea, complimentary snacks and beverages throughout the day, evening canapés and more, to anyone staying in Club Rotana category 74

www.ohlala-magazine.com

www.ohlala-magazine.com

75

REGIONAL Escapes accommodation. If you want that added touch of luxury and convenience – this is definitely a good choice!

City Centre Rotana Doha offers a feast of culinary options in a variety of exquisite settings. Each restaurant shines with its own character and cuisine, and all are defined by signature bespoke service. Firstly, breakfast is a lovely affair of hot and cold dishes to satisfy your morning cravings and make sure that you get off to a great start! The hotel’s newest restaurant; Zeituna Lebanese Restaurant, is an oriental celebration of cuisine. Think delicious authentic flavours with mouthwatering ingredients and instagram-ready dishes, providing guests with a unique Lebanese dining experience.

The venue is designed to represent a relaxed atmosphere where guests are offered an exceptional choice of mezze, delicacies, beverages and desserts. It is distinguished by its refined service, elegant decoration and the live music you can enjoy while dining along with a great choice of shisha flavours. Our favourite dishes, and ones we’d highly recommend include: Sawda Djej (panfried chicken liver with pomegranate and lemon sauce), Fish Sayadia (baked fish with spiced rice & caramelized onions, topped with nuts and served with tahina sauce) and the Halawat El Jiben Mouchallaleh (sweet cheese dough, pistachios topped with Ashta cream and rose petal jam).

The restaurant represents an amalgamation of regional dishes, serving lunch and diner with recipes inspired by Lebanon and the Arab region. If you’re looking for that taste of homely comfort cuisine, here’s where you’ll find it!

On the other hand, there’s the ever-pleasing Teatro with its Eastern Cooking Meets Western Cuisine – there’s a sushi bar as well as a comprehensive à la carte menu creatively blending dishes from Chinese, Indian, Italian, Japanese and Thai cuisines. The award-winning Boston’s Bar & Restaurant is every sports bar-lovers dream with a variety of sumptuous dishes off a delicious American style-menu to relax and unwind. A lobby-level gourmet coffee shop and two poolside dining options roundup City Centre Rotana’s excellent food offerings – there’s a good chance that you won’t need to leave the premises for any meals.

Surprisingly, we ended up spending a lot of time at Bodylines Fitness &

“Each restaurant shines with its own character and cuisine, and all are defined by signature bespoke service.”

Wellness Club. Their fully-equipped gymnasium, cardiovascular and weight training, steam, sauna, and jacuzzi are the cherry on top of the cake when it comes to staycation choices. If you don’t want to compromise on your fitness and wellbeing throughout the stay, you don’t have to! This place offers it all; personal trainers and fitness instructors are at hand to guide you through workout, temperature controlled outdoor swimming pool and kids’ pool (sunbathing is amazing here!), and a spa that offers an array of time-tested massages and treatments. In fact, the deep tissue massage we opted for was complete bliss as the therapist used the best techniques to work out our knots and decrease stress levels – which meant that we had a wonderful night’s sleep. In a nutshell, the hotel has enough to please both the children and the big kids of the family!

City Centre Rotana’s location in the heart of Doha keeps it connected to City Centre Mall and mere steps from the new Doha Exhibition and Conference Centre. The hotel is nestled in the key business and commercial district of West Bay and just 30 minutes’ drive from the new Hamad International Airport. This makes it a great choice for both leisure travellers looking for downtime, and a business traveller in need of a relaxing place to stay that has all the mod cons required.

For couples or families in Doha who wish to get away from home life for a few nights and let someone else take care of them, City Centre Rotana Doha’s big, spacious rooms, yummy dining options and recreation facilities will keep every guest occupied throughout their stay. Final verdict: we will be back!

For more information please contact +974 4445 8888 @ccrotanadoha

76

www.ohlala-magazine.com

www.ohlala-magazine.com

77

TRAVEL Escapes

78

www.ohlala-magazine.com

HEART’S HIDEAWAY Finishing schools, exquisite watches, bank accounts, clocks, chocolate, cheese and the safe haven for the Von Trapp’s in the ‘Sound of Music’. We explore sensational Switzerland…

A wise lady once said that it’s tough to find a place not to

like in Switzerland and even upon arrival, I was immediately smitten with it’s beguiling qualities. There was only one place which could possibly be our starting point; iconic, notorious, the epitome of cool...

The Geneva Montreux Jazz Café located in the Arrivals Hall of the airport. Brimming with memorabilia and unique contemporary touches the café allowed us the opportunity to explore a little of Switzerland’s heritage, musical and pop culture whilst devouring a delicious pasta bowl garnished with delectable parmesan.

After a short transfer we arrived in Lausanne. It is easy to say that Lausanne could be heralded as the epitome of tranquillity and indulgence. The cobbled streets and historic architecture combined with the lakeside vistas make it the perfect hub for indulging in cultural, gastronomic and sporting pursuits. The Olympic Museum gives a fascinating insight into the country’s sporting heritage displaying an array of memorabilia and modern, interactive installations.

The Royal Savoy Hotel’s ornate cornices and plaster work embraces its heritage whilst giving way to contemporary design statements such as graphic chandeliers piercing the space in steel and glass. Gentle, delicate wrought iron branches woven with fairy lights, suspended alluringly. This variety and veracity for stretching the limits of design, whilst cherishing classical splendour has brought the Savoy not just to life but into the 21st century. The sepia toned photographs displayed throughout the rooms and public areas have captured the hotel’s Art Nouveau heritage which still runs strongly throughout the soft furnishings and décor. Rooms are decadent and luxurious. With thoughtfully selected additions such as Bvlgari cosmetics and state-of-the-art technology the guest bedrooms are both nostalgic and cutting edge chic.

The lake area in Lausanne exudes a holiday vibe with families barbequing by the lake, swimming and strolling the lakefront. Trendy bars such as ‘La Jetee de la Compagne’ provide places for locals and tourists to gather, mix and mingle. Leaving the lakeshore on the Belle Epoque Paddle Steamer afforded us spectacular views of the expansive lake and Alps beyond as we set to anchor in France. The quality of the food on board was a pleasant surprise. A selection of the finest antipasto, cheeses and spit roast meats was followed by the most

indulgent chocolate mousse which not only lingered on the palate but was one of the culinary highlights of our trip.

I awoke full of eager anticipation of our exploration of the old town, the trendy Flan area, the farmers market and speciality food stores which nestle within the cobbled streets. Lausanne combines Swiss Alpine charm and architectural splendour. ‘La Ferme Vaudoise’, a speciality food store was brimming with the bounty of the region. This included cheeses, ham, cured meats and nutty rye breads. In addition the ‘du vin’ we sampled is considered some of the most delicious in Europe but is not exported and so can only be enjoyed within Switzerland’s borders.

The stunning Brasserie de Montbenon played host to our luxuriant lunch. The variety and quality of French inspired cuisine was phenomenal. Moules frites, delicate Vol au Vents and handmade Ravioli accompanied staples such as snails and roast pork. The terrace with its canopies and canvass umbrellas provides diners with the perfect space to both see and be seen.

“I awoke full of eager anticipation of our exploration of the old town, the trendy Flan area, the farmers market and speciality food stores which nestle within the cobbled streets” After a leisurely afternoon spent exploring the sights and delights of the lakeshore and town we readied ourselves for our visit to the iconic Beau -Rivage Palace and the Café which shares its name. The décor exudes simple, classic sophistication. Open booth style seating, candelabra styled chandeliers and high ceilings enhancing the sense of grandeur. The restaurant menu was designed to highlight the technical expertise of the chefs’ but also their inventiveness and use of local, high quality products.

The likes of Tuna Nicoise Salad and Pan Seared Duck Foie Gras, executed perfectly alongside more adventurous, dynamic dishes such as scallop and www.ohlala-magazine.com

79

TRAVEL Escapes

Salmon Carpaccio, whole baked Lobster with delicious Al Dente pasta, Zucchini Flower stuffed with Pike and Crayfish Sauce and King Prawns with Green Papaya. It is no wonder that The Hall of Fame is brimming with royalty and all manner of celebrity. Including Nelson Mandela, The Jordanian Royal Family and Prince Albert of Monaco. I’m more than confident to trust their esteemed opinions!

And so to the final leg of my voyage of discovery around Vaud region, the Swiss canton along Lake Geneva, Vevey and more specifically the Grand Hôtel du Lac. Vevey and more specifically the Grand Hôtel du Lac. The Hotel is an eclectic mix of styles of décor which even individually would be splendid but when combined, in this setting , achieve nothing short of magnificence! Filigree and floral chintz, original tiled flooring, vaulted ceilings, windows swathed in heavy drapes and detailed, hand crafted wallpapers illuminated by grand crystal chandeliers suspended above. During my time around Lake Geneva I have come to the conclusion that Switzerland is about the best of everything and in terms of lodgings Hôtel du Lac would challenge the best of the best.

After spending a morning being expertly tutored by Michelin Starred Chef Mr. Thomas Neeser. We proudly surveyed the delicate entrees and amuse bouche that we had constructed. Vivid flourishes of colour, contrasting textures, unique seasonings and flavours transformed familiar dishes into those worthy of accolade. A fascinating insight and more importantly a delicious treat for anyone, not just self-confessed foodies. As we surveyed the menu at La Veranda within Grand Hôtel du Lac we did so discerningly following our culinary master class.

The afternoon uncovered more of Switzerland’s fascinating history.

80

www.ohlala-magazine.com

Following another charming cruise aboard the Paddle Steamer ‘L’Italie’ we made our way to Chillon Castle which was once a highly important strategic military location and is now the most visited historic attraction in Switzerland. Montreux is synonymous with Jazz and all kinds of music but has hidden depths. Visitors can meander and mosey through the covered markets and take a ride on the funicular. As we turned every corner yet another charming experience or sight greeted us.

Ze Fork with its enviable lakeside setting in Vevey was the piece de resistance. The philosophy of Ze Fork is to embrace the idea of Trilogy.

Three interpretations of the same product or theme. This may include foie gras or pork or themes such as ‘The Lake’ or ‘The Farm’. Each mouthful tantalised the senses and just as you were beginning to think you had tasted the best version of each product… the next interpretation bettered the last. Absolutely magnificent, inventive and unique.

My final morning was both highly educational and also hedonistically indulgent. Meeting with the notorious Dr Burgener who has spent over twenty years creating a portfolio of high tech skin advancements and beauty remedies as well as Spa’s in Europe and the Middle East, most notably in the Four Seasons Dubai was fascinating.

The Swiss very much take an holistic approach towards wellbeing and so it seemed very fitting to embrace this and turn our attention to ‘treating’ our insides at Läderach. Again, the tour gave us a fascinating insight into the heritage of chocolatiers and the industry they have created, although by far the highlight of any trip to Switzerland, for chocoholics like myself, was the chocolate tasting and crafting session.

The unctuous slabs that we carefully handcrafted and then devoured were brimming with the bounties of the region and beyond.

It’s safe to say that if you plan to travel extensively over the next few years then you should be cautious about visiting Switzerland. The reason? I doubt that any other region or country could compete or indeed compare as it is true that once you have visited Switzerland you will have been spoiled for anywhere else. It truly is the epitome of perfection...everywhere. www.lake-geneva-region.ch

www.ohlala-magazine.com

81

OHLALA Spotlight

DREAM COME TRUE Dream Machine is the leading photo booth company in Doha and has been adding exciting and fun memories to events since 2012. We take a closer look as to why ‘taking a picture’ does indeed last longer …

D

ream Machine’s dream is to help its clients have a unique and fun experience at their events, create extra foot traffic on their activations and establish brand retention by having something that is worth keeping. The company provides services to social and corporate events, grand opening / anniversary of shops, concerts, sports activities, bridal parties, weddings and graduation. Who can resist a good photo with your friends and family at special occasions as a free souvenir.

82

www.ohlala-magazine.com

AL L N E W IN D IAN M E N U Traditional Indian dining reaches new heights at Al Matbakh restaurant.

Explore from the best street food to the delicacies of fine Indian cuisine.

Open daily : 18:00 - midnight Arumaila Boutique Hotel Souq Waqif, P.O. Box 3496 . Doha, Qatar 4433 6666 | fb.reservations.tswq@tivolihotels.com tivolihotels.com

www.ohlala-magazine.com

83

OHLALA Spotlight

“The business started six years ago when there was no photo booth service in Qatar, a fashion photographer came to the rescue and built the first real, fun, cute, glamorous and instant photo booth machine.”

Dream Machine specialise in providing a photo booth service and currently offers many customised services that will suit any kind of events or parties and have that extra kick of fun. They have their famous photobooth that has always been a favorite to any event, the magic mirror booth that is perfect for any fashion show, wedding, retail openings and luxurious events, want to increase your event in social media scene, Dream Machine have the hashtag booth to help you and so much more. Recently, they launched a new service called the GIF Booth, it snaps three photos on their photo booth, converts it to 84

www.ohlala-magazine.com

animated GIF file, immediately sends it to the guest email address and it is ready to share to any social media accounts with the company’s logo, but wait there’s more to love about this new service, they also print the photos as an extra keepsake. On each booking the company includes on-spot printing, unlimited printing of photos, customised artworks, standard props and professional and friendly team operator that will surely hype every guest at your event. Dream Machine ensures the best quality and service in the market and offers their service at fair price.

Don’t take our word for it, ask their loyal and growing clients.

The business started six years ago when there was no photo booth service in Qatar, a fashion photographer came to the rescue and built the first real, fun, cute, glamorous and instant photo booth machine. The company is under new management since late 2016 and still lives by its original mission - to provide engaging marketing concepts, exhilarating, unforgettable and oneof-a-kind experiences to its clients.

At Dream Machine, they always strive to achieve the satisfaction and smiles of each client and their guest. Just strike a pose, smile, enjoy and get your photo in an instant.

For more information and bookings please contact 5014 9982. @dreammachineqatar / www.dreammachine.com

BELGIAN CHOCOLATE FESTIVAL In collaboration with Embassy of Belgium in Doha

Take part in an exclusive Making & Tasting Chocolate Workshops at SKY Lounge with Belgian celebrity chocolatier, Chef Laurent Gerbaud for only QR 150 per person!

For more information, call us at +974 4446 5600 or visit our website www.thetorchdoha.com.qa THE TORCH DOHA Aspire Zone Al Waab Street P.O Box 23833 Tel +974 4446 5600 Fax 4446 5700 Reservation@thetorchdoha.com www.thetorchdoha.com.qa www.ohlala-magazine.com

85

CHIC Eats Mondrian Doha

Making a dramatic entrance that reflects the Qatari sunset is CUT by Wolfgang Puck at the Mondrian Hotel in Doha. Bringing his classic, American steak restaurant, CUT s open for breakfast, lunch and dinner and delivers innovation at every level through its unique culinary, service and design combination. Find your way across the “floating staircase” and indulge in a menu that showcases Wolfgang’s philosophy of offering on the finest selection of beef, produce and locally-sourced ingredients cooked simply and presented beautifully. Call 4045 5999

InterContinental Doha, The City

La Vista 55 brings you a zesty blend of spices, flavours, and vibrant beats from all over Cuba. Enjoy unbeatable panoramic views of West Bay and Doha on the 55th and 56th floor as we take you on a trip to vintage Havana and beyond. Take the plunge and indulge in authentic signature beverages and specialty Cuban tapas while you enjoy the beats and rhythm of la musica from their live band all the way from Cuba. Call: 4015 8888

The Torch Doha

Enjoy Picnic High Tea at Torch Tea Garden. Introducing a new concept of Afternoon Tea with a twist! Served on a miniature picnic table full of delicious bites along with your choice of tea or coffee!

QR 150. Tue- Sun, 3.30pm-6pm. Call 4446 5600

Marriott Marquis City Center Doha Hotel

Wherever you go in this prestigious hotel, experience a gastronomic journey throughout one of their 10 acclaimed restaurants and lounges!

Crossroads Kitchen for example offers a journey for your taste buds.

This international restaurant boasts all-day dining, buffet, brunch and live cooking demonstrations. It’s an interactive dining experience for everyone in your party. Call 4419 5000

Radisson Blu Hotel Doha

NOVEMBER

DINING Our round up of the best chic eats venues

86

www.ohlala-magazine.com

Start the weekend right with a Friday Carvery Brunch with Live Entertainment at Hyde Park. Book your brunch and experience exceptional combination of traditional carvery, pies, fresh salads, international delights and an array of tempting desserts. Get FREE swimming pool access from 7am to 3pm and 15% beverage discount voucher at Inginuity to be availed until 7:00pm. Call 44281555

Four Seasons Hotel Doha

Start the weekend on a leisurely note with the award-winning Four Seasons Hotel Doha’s Friday Brunch, extended buffet stations in Elements, Il Teatro and Arabica. Savour a wide array of offerings – from fresh seafood to sushi, Asian food favourites. Arabic and Western selection, Peking Duck station and sumptuous desserts including – matched by an all new setting of action stations that serve up an unforgettable backdrop for flavourful cuisine. Every Friday from 12:30 pm until 4:30 pm. Call 4494 8600

Hilton Doha

Share a sawalif with your close friends over a tempting dessert or a refreshing drink. Sawalif Lounge is located at the pool area and features all glass, floorto-ceiling walls that give an impressive and wide view of the sea. With daily opening hours from 11:00 to 02:00 and a choice of à la carte snacks you just have to see the beautiful backdrop for yourself. Call 4423 3423

www.ohlala-magazine.com

87

CHIC Eats deliciously different dining affair. Their Chef ’s show kitchen is perfect for those wanting to experience the true taste of Thailand. Sabai Thai seduces with its luxe décor, private bar and genuine warm Thai welcome. Call 3359 8514

Doha Marriott Hotel

Find yourself in a relaxing atmosphere at the Lobby Cafe, whether it is a business meeting, a gathering with friends or a simple treat, their professional baristas have you covered on the daily. Sit back and enjoy, from speciality coffees to the mouthwatering selection of cakes on offer. Call 4429 8888

Toro Toro (Marsa Malaz Kempinski, The Pearl) Toro Toro is a creative blend of Pan Latin styles and flavours. The Restaurant showcases the most authentic recipes from Brazil to Peru in a vibrant atmosphere, giving to its eclectic and selected guests a full Latin experience.

From the minutely prepared small dishes to share to the acclaimed “Rodizio Experience”, Toro Toro has been a great success and the infamous Toro Toro Latin Brunch is well and truly back. Call 4035 5101

City Centre Rotana Doha

City Centre Rotana Doha offers a feast of culinary options in a variety of exquisite settings. Each restaurant shines with its own character and cuisine, and all are defined by signature bespoke service. Revel in the cuisine of their talented chefs, whose interpretations of contemporary Western and Eastern, inventive authentic, classical and modern to evoke all five senses, each with its own distinctive ambiance. Call 4445 8888

The St. Regis Doha

Marsa Malaz Kempinski, The Pearl

Inspired by the colours and patterns of the fashion world, this assortment of handmade unique delicacies brings you a fashionista twist, created with elegance. Enjoy an afternoon out as you indulge in the sweet treats, sip on a dreamily brewed cup of tea and overlook the turquoise waters of the Arabian Gulf. Call 4035 5555

Ezdan Hotel

Indulge yourself at Al Thouraya Restaurant where you can unwind and indulge your taste buds with a whole host of international and contemporary dishes - ideal for all the family and perfect to satisfy everyone’s appetite. Call 4496 9600

Shangri-La Hotel Doha

Shanghai Club is the first of its kind and the highest Chinese restaurant in Doha. This new-age of chic restaurant with a 100% Chinese brigade is the new venue to savour authentic Cantonese, Sichuan and Shanghainese cuisines while admiring the Doha skyline from the 43rd and 44th floors.

Open for dinner from 6:30 p.m. to 11:30 p.m. Lounge bar & Balcony: 5:30 p.m. until late with live entertainment by their international resident DJ. Call: 4429 5295

Westin Doha Hotel & Spa

The textures and flavours of Sabai Thai’s authentic cooking make for a 88

www.ohlala-magazine.com

Set in the gardens of St. Regis’ hotel, Hakkasan Doha features an elegant main dining room, Ling Ling lounge, terrace and terrace lounge. Exclusive services such as private valet parking complement the award-winning food which include Hakkasan’s signature dishes as well as those created specifically for the restaurant. An elegant retreat of a restaurant and with the added benefit that Hakkasan Doha is open daily for dinner. Call: 4446 0170

Sheraton Grand Doha

Brunch in style at La Veranda and bask in Doha’s beautiful weather with their new brunch concept at one of our favourite Italian homes in Doha.

Set amongst the tranquil setting of the La Veranda garden, savour their mouthwatering food selection brought to you by their talented culinary team, whilst enjoying magnificent views of the Doha Corniche. Call: 4485 3000

Zengo, Kempinski Suites & Residences

Inspired by the Celebrity Chef Richard Sandoval, Zengo situated on the 61st and 62nd floor offers a unique spin on authentic Pan-Asian cuisine.

The menu ranges from sushi, sashimi to curry dishes, grilled entrees, and wok dishes. Hand-muddled sips, with a focus on Asian flavours, complement the diverse menu. Zengo does not only stand out for its marvellous flavours; but also for its artfully presented dishes and original beverage creations. From the Omakase Sushi Zen to the Akai Ichigo, everything is a perfect gift for the palette and view. Call 4405 3560

Grand Hyatt

Your favourite brunch spot is staying put. Head to Santa Monica Breakfast Club for awhole host of culinary delights that will be sure to transport you from busy city life to the chilledenvironment of the West Coast. Children are welcome too! Call 4448 1240

www.ohlala-magazine.com

89

CHIC Eats

ULTIMATE BRUNCH

THE WESTIN DOHA HOTEL & SPA truly brings the whole “Work hard, play hard!” mantra to new levels at their Bubbalicious Brunch that had us coming back for more…

As I made my way to the Westin Doha I was

confident that not only would I be enjoying great company, eating exquisite dishes which are presented in the most unique fashion, but, based upon the reputation which proceeds the Bubbalicious Brunch I was braced for lashings of unadulterated fun, music and dancing.

The venue, ‘Seasonal Tastes’ affords diners the opportunity to dine inside the expansive restaurant or al fresco on the adjoining terrace area. Both spaces house the numerous live cooking stations ensuring that all guests feel immersed in the experience regardless of where they choose to sit. Seasonal Tastes mirrors the elegant styling found throughout The Westin and it is best described as contemporary, cutting edge sleekness with clean edges and quirky methods of illuminating spaces. Dark woods, contrasted with white and grey with textured walls amidst vivid accents of Azur blue and lime green. Look up and you will see the incredible ceiling designed to look like an illuminated shock wave rippling from one side of the room to the other. All in all the perfect setting for an intimate brunch, Executive Lunch or indeed a frivolous Friday with friends.

The live cooking stations are accepted as a brunch staple but the team at The Westin have optimised staging along with the finest quality produce to elevate these to a gourmet level. Travel around each station on a global journey from Turkish kofte to a spicy soupcon of Mexican marvels then to the Far East for tantalising Thai. The Indian food is both unique and familiar with many dishes prepared before your very eyes. The food trucks and live bands are a welcome addition to this wonderful extravaganza, accelerating the feel good vibe to an all new high. Simply electric.

The sushi platters are colourful and vibrant with so many varieties that you may not want to look any further. This would be a huge faux pas though as the fabulous Seafood Boat is utterly sublime.

Vast trays and tubs loaded with freshly prepared muscles, lobster tails, shrimp and fish are arranged on the deck of a small boat as if they had just been plucked from the sea by fishermen.The approach is minimalist. Allowing the quality of the seafood to shine along with simple accompaniments such as juicy lemon wedges and crisp salads. Over indulgence is unavoidable and a necessity!

The vast selection of grains and grapes along with colourful punches and juices complement the fayre perfectly. Once you have sampled the libations I would advise visiting the themed dessert area.

Trays and platters set upon vast ‘lawns’ of artificial grass in a ‘Mad

90

www.ohlala-magazine.com

Hatters Tea Party’ themed room. Delicate tarts loaded with berries.

An array of bubbly mousses speared with shards of chocolate and quirky eggs shells crammed with layer after layer of decadence. An absolute triumph of both styling and taste. Those more inclined to savoury as opposed to sweet will be thrilled with the plethora of cheeses arranged on wooden boards along with fresh figs, walnuts and dried apricots to enhance the underlying tones and flavours of the cheese. Combined with the fabulous on site baked goods and flaky pastries creating a real crescendo at the end of the brunch.

Entertainment often feels like an afterthought at Friday events but The Westin has woven the ‘Bubbalicious’ theme throughout.

Live DJs stationed at mixing desks create a party atmosphere with balloons in abundance and the opportunity to dance as you dine. The interactive approach of staff who involve themselves just as fully in the entertainment as they do the service is something which is to be applauded. You can enjoy this weekly Friday delight between 12.30 and 4.00 at Seasonal Tastes within The Westin Hotel and Spa, but, please note that bookings are highly recommended - rather like the Bubbalicious Brunch itself. Just as we felt that the Friday Brunch scene had plateaued or stagnated The Westin team have brought something new and fresh and so much fun to the table! Thank you.

For more information or reservations please call 4492 1555 @westindoha

“The sushi platters are colourful and vibrant with so many varieties that you may not want to look any further.

This would be a huge faux pas though as the fabulous Seafood Boat is utterly sublime.�

www.ohlala-magazine.com

91

OHLALA Spotlight

‘FEMINISM IS A VOICE’ ART 29 launched an all-women exhibition featuring 12 local and international female artists at W Doha Hotel & Residences.

T

he gallery was comprised of over 40 pieces that ranged from canvas paintings, calligraphy and photography.

Curated

by Qatari artist Fahad Al Obaidly, the collection showcased the formative impact of feminism on contemporary art and provided a visual framework that concerns women of today. The opening reception for the gallery was held on October 20th and will be open to the public until November 20th, from 10am-10pm daily.

The talented group women who are displaying their stirring compositions representing each of their personal journeys include: Fatma Mohammed, Sumaia ElKilani, Abeer Al Kuwari, Aisha Al Malki, Sheikha Al Hardan, Maryam Al Homaid, Shouq AlMana, Sara Al-Buainain and Shuaa Al Muftah – who are all Qatari, Maysa Elmuman from Kuwait, Hadeer Omar from Yemen and Shaima Al Tamimi from Egypt.

‘Feminism is a Voice’ as an exhibition offering a multi-voiced interpretation of feminism through contemporary art. It aims to expose society to female artists who want to create a dialogue between the viewer and artwork. In addition, it will tackle concepts around feminism with works that embrace women empowerment, with literal or metaphorical visualizations.

Commenting on her personal journey through art, self-taught Qatari practitioner, Aisha Al Malki said: “Feminism is a Voice and ART29 is the perfect platform to share my artistic vision to the local art community in Qatar. My pieces are inspired from the many successful women in my life – including my mother - their memories and stories. I hope that my work will produce powerful bonds among viewers that visit the exhibition. It is definitely a place to share stories and connect with others.”

The gallery is meant to tackle the idea that there are no boundaries 92

www.ohlala-magazine.com

in art; although the women hail from different backgrounds, families and age; it is their love for art that is the common thread tying them together.

Qatari Artist, Sumaia Al Kilani, commented: “I have always been passionate about art in the form of surrealism because it enables me to depict my thoughts and visions through my paintings. My goal is to document meaningful memories by reinventing my very own thoughts and turning it into art. It has been a true pleasure for me as an artist to showcase my story to the local community through this exhibition and I hope that visitors will take the time to view all the compositions on display as they are not to be missed.”

W Doha Hotel General Manager, Wassim Daaje said: “The addition of the latest gallery at ART29 is not just a platform to empower women alone but also a platform to empower creativity through other artists in Qatar. At the W Doha, we truly believe it is important that passionate and emerging talents are given ample opportunities to showcase their artistry. I encourage the W Doha visitors to stop by ART29 to see the insightful gallery for themselves - you will not be disappointed by the displays concocted by these brilliant women.”

Fahad Al Obaidly is an independent curator based in Qatar. His passion for curating creative exhibitions started with curating his own fashion and art exhibitions in 2012 when he curated his own fashion exhibitions such as: Fumee Fashion in Paris, Sadek fashion exhibition in Germany and Khait exhibition as part of year of culture with Brazil as well as many others.

For more information, please visit the Art29 website at www.art29doha. com @wdoha

www.ohlala-magazine.com

93

OHLALA Spotlight

PROUD HERITAGE

ALFARDAN JEWELLERY launched the emblematic Fiftysix® collection

by Vacheron Constantin at luxury 5 star resort, MARSA MALAZ KEMPINSKI, THE PEARL - DOHA.

Founded in 1755, Vacheron Constantin is the world’s oldest watch manufacturer, in continuous production for over 260 years. Faithfully perpetuating a proud heritage of watchmaking excellence and stylistic sophistication through generations of master artisans. At the pinnacle of high horology and understated elegance, the Maison creates timepieces with unique technical and aesthetic signatures, as well as an extremely high level of finishing touches. With its longstanding partnerships with the majority of Europe’s best known watchmakers and jewellery designers, Alfardan Jewellery has several branches in the State of Qatar that address the specific needs of its discerning clientele.

94

www.ohlala-magazine.com

www.ohlala-magazine.com

95

96

www.ohlala-magazine.com

FASHION WEEKEND INTERNATIONAL LAUNCHES IN DOHA IN SPECTACULAR STYLE SHOWCASING FASHION EXTRAORDINAIRE MANISH MALHOTRA AND CELEBRITY SHOWSTOPPER AISHWARYA RAI BACHCHAN SUPPORTED BY INTERNATIONAL MAKE-UP ARTIST, NABILA AND HOST KARAN TACKER, FWI’18 DESTINATION DOHA OPENED TO A FULL HOUSE. PARTNERS INCLUDED ALFARDAN GROUP, SALAM, QATAR AIRWAYS, MONDRIAN DOHA AND QATAR TOURISM AUTHORITY ALL SUPPORTING MAKING THIS ICONIC FASHION MOMENT A REALITY.

www.ohlala-magazine.com

97

NAMSHI

MISS Ohlala

?

E X U LAX L

MISS OHLALA SHARPENS THE BLURRED LINES ON FASHION STANDARDS IN TODAY’S SOCIETY SURROUNDING SPORTS LUXE. Fashion seems to be constantly pushing limits and crossing boundaries. It’s a mixture of innovation and recycled ideas that keeps new season lines fresh but that also ensures they have an element of familiarity. Should the inclusion of sports and fitness inspired pieces in many different forms across the collections from workwear to occasion wear be applauded or discouraged?

The Manhattan sidewalks of the 80’s were pounded by city workers who pioneered the suit and sneakers look. Secretaries, Doctors, CEO’s and Shop Assistants alike donned uniforms and suits with running shoes in order to make their commute a little more comfortable. Practicality initially taking president and starting a new fashion trend that would grow and leech throughout all elements of society. Catsuits, leg warmers, tracksuits and baseball jackets have all been leaders in the fashion stakes at different points during the 80’s, 90’s and now. However, has something that was based on practicality now metamorphosed into innate laziness and slack standards with regards to how we present ourselves?

Many fine dining restaurants, nightclubs and hotels insist that guests and clients adhere to a dress code. No place for sneakers or T-shirts without collars and shorts as they are distinctly frowned upon. However, across the pond in Hollywood or on the Cote D’Azur models, actors, singers and writers combine haute couture with leggings, training shoes and dri-fit technology on catwalks or red carpets. So, should standards be relaxed to match new socially accepted trends? Or should we uphold tradition and ensure that expectations remain high?

98

www.ohlala-magazine.com

This seems to be a commentary on changes not just in fashion but society as a whole. At one point businessmen and women would not have ventured into the office without a collar, jacket or tie l, or to coin a phrase... without being ‘suited and booted’, but now companies encourage a more relaxed approach with dress down days. Certainly in warmer climes such as this traditional dress is favoured over western convention. So it seems that perhaps there is a place for evolution in terms of social expectations regarding appearance and presentation.

Throughout history fashion has reflected the modes of society combined with practical necessity and methods of adhering to social expectations. In Victorian England ankles and shoulders were covered, waists were pinched and bottoms accentuated. Men would not venture outside without a hat, gloves and tie. This reflected standards and expectations which simply don’t apply in the modern age. We have evolved and perspectives have shifted as ethics and morals have advanced and expanded. Shabby chic and industrial finishes with exposed brick work and rough edges have replaced sharp edges and immaculate finishes. Therefore it seems that blending casual accessories or styles with formality has become the norm. Rather than being lax or lazy incorporating sportswear or casual pieces is a very deliberate choice with a lot of thought given to it. Instead of illustrating slipping standards it might actually represent more attention to detail and an asserted effort to reflect modern social conventions within fashion. Lazy or Modish? Slapdash or chic? That’s for you to decide and ultimately dress accordingly … but forever fabulous!

A fusion of the vibrant atmosphere and intricate avours of vintage Havana, La Vista 55 bar & lounge brings a piece of Cuba to Doha with authentic tapas and a live Cuban band. +974 7021 8765 icdohathecity.dining@ihg.com

www.ohlala-magazine.com

99

100 www.ohlala-magazine.com