Ohlala! Qatar February 2015 by Ohlala! Qatar

THE ESSENCE OF STYLE

DIVE INTO

BOUCHERON’S FINE JEWELLERY

PSYCHOLOGIST

MARTYN STEWART

HIS GUIDE TO MAINTAINING HEALTHY RELATIONSHIPS

A HOLIDAY FIT FOR

A QUEEN:

YOUR GUIDE TO AN UNFORGETTABLE EXPERIENCE

PLUS:

A SIT DOWN WITH QATAR’S VERY OWN

FASHION DESIGNER, DABYA

Osman Yousefzada “THE WOMAN WHO WEARS OSMAN HAS A PERSONAL STYLE, WHICH IS EASY, UNFORCED AND INNATE.”

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Editor’s Letter

February’s Jewels February is here and so is Doha’s Jewellery & Watches Exhibition. A month full of fine jewellery, sparkle, glitz and glam. But it’s not just the jewellery scene that is causing a stir; British-born Osman Yousefzada gave Ohlala! Qatar an exclusive interview, where he candidly talks about his latest collection, his views on the fashion industry and his brand. Keeping the issue close to home with empowering women, we shed light on Iman Ghandour— an exceptional entrepreneur who electrified us with her must-haves and her latest online retail business, which is an inspiration for every woman tackling their dreams and goals. Also, keeping it local with style, I had the pleasure to sit down with Qatari designer Dabya, where she revealed her inspirations, what it means to be a local designer and her views on Qatar’s fashion scene. For all those who seek answers on maintaining a healthy relationship, I’ve got the perfect person to handle those tricky questions; I had the privilege to sit down and unlock my imagination with a very open interview with chartered psychologist, Martyn Stewart. Let’s start this month on a productive note.

Sofia Graniello Local Editor

hot picks

Bath & Body Works, A Thousand Wishes

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Boucheron

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L’ H e u re d u D i a m a n t HIGH JEWELLERY COLLECTION

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CONTENTS

POP That Colour

Must-haves for this season with a twist and a pop of colour!

WISH LISTS 26 Love Icon 28 The Bucket List 30 The Trending List STYLE 32 A Romantic Soirée 34 Look For Less 36 Dsqured2 38 Pop of Colour 40 Fashion of the Stars STYLE INTERVIEW 42 Meet Dabya SHOE OBSESSION 44 Miu Miu FASHION INSIDER 46 Iman THE INTERVIEW 48 Osman Yousefzada JEWELLERY OBSESSION 50 Boucheron 52 VERSACE Pre-Spring 2015 BEAUTY FILES 61 Beauty Buzz 63 Celebs’ Secrets 64 Get the Look 66 Nail Files HEALTHY FILES 68 Spa retreat 70 Maintaining a healthy relationship TRAVEL 72 Beirut 74 A Holiday fit for a Queen WHAT’S NEW 78 Thomene Dilley 80 Karl Lagerfeld’s Concept Store ART CORNER 83 My Museum/Anima Gallery CHIC EATS 84 Pampano 86 Chic Recommends MOTORING 88 Lexus RC – F SHOPPING 90 Where To Buy SOCIETY PEOPLE 91 Shot-on-Site THE COLUMN 98 Miss Ohlala – Newly Single Girl

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Chairman Khalifa Bin Mubarak Al Khalifa Chief Executive Officer Greg Hughes Publishing Director Edward Smith

Administration Executive Roy Varghese

General Manager

Accountants

Hussein Zreik

Gigimon Thankachen Praveen Alexander

Local Editor Sofia Graniello

Regional Fashion & Beauty Editor

Distribution Team Jayapragash Ganesan Rajesh Abdul Kadar

Georgie Bradley

contributors Karina Lazarraga Kirsty Edwards-Harris Tony Sidgwick Nicholas Chrisostomou Leonie Trubshoe

Printing Press Awal Press

Distribution

Editor-at-Large

Bahrain â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Al Hilal Qatar â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Dar Al Sharq

Ben Whittaker

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Enquiries

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UA R E

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

Creative DIrector Paula Leal

Senior Graphic Designer Raquel Henriques

Graphic Designer Rashed Bin Daina

Production & Distribution Manager Neil Mahmood

Website Designer & Developer Ammar Ali

Photography Contributors Abshar PK @ Creative Design Shameer Pokkutty @ Creative Design Imelda Reynante

sales Manager Badir Bechara

Social Media Marketing & Administrative Manager

COVER IMAGE BY

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Love Icon

La Panthère

Created by Mathilde Laurent, the sun casts its amber rays over this radiant version of La Panthère. This sensual silage is an ode to lying exquisitely idle like a languid feline with a hint of tiaré flower, whose exquisite, sunny, balsamic warmth radiates and captivates the ‘soul of the panther’ in all its feline grace. The iconic and peculiar shape of the bottle is meticulously carved line by line into the glass to reveal the feline’s sunny and hypnotic soul. An essential design, like a precious gemstone, it resonates true grace for a panther’s profile.

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Style

The Bucket

list

Dazzle the night away with a touch of glitz and glam. Carolina Herrera’s ‘Elis’ bag from its Samba Collection resembles a woman with sophistication, allure, style and grace for this must-have bucket list item for this season’s trends. The perfect size bag for a casual, or over-the-top soirée in the city.

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www.ohlala-magazine.com 1 La Croisette, Porto Arabia, The Pearl-Qatar

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Style

The trending

Go for gold, or a mixture of colours and statement pieces

Swarovski, Necklace

list

Embellish your fingers and stack those rings up

Take the neutral route

Marc Jacobs, bag

Carolina Herrera, earrings

Swarovski by Viktor & Rolf, ring

CĂŠline, heels

Chic on the mules with CĂŠline

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Show your allegiance to white and gold jewellery Array your look with a crocodile touch

Loewe, clutch

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FRENCH ART OF PASSION

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Style 4. 5.

10.

A Romantic SoiréE...

1. sWAROVSKI, RING 2. Celine, shoes 3. CELINE 4. SWAROVSKI, ACCESSORIES 5. BOURJOIS, MASCARA 6. MARC BY MARC JACOBS, BAG 7. DSQUARED2, CLUTCH 8. GUERLAIN, LIPSTICK 9. SWAROSVKI, NECKLACE 10. CAROLINA HERRERA 11. PACO RABANNE 12. Dsquared2, sandals 13. ALICE & OLIVIA 14. WEILL, BLAZER

It’s February and it’s all about romance in the air! Whether you spend this romantic month with your friends, or dining out with your loved ones, we have put together must-have pieces to rock this lavish month.

13. 14.

12.

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BUSINESS lunch by

The finest business lunch in Doha The new Executive Chef of Kempinski Vinon Yergu, has revamped the popular business lunch menu with creative, healthy and fresh options. Savour creative culinary creations such as the Chilled Vanilla & Orange Soup, the Vegetable Moussaka and finish off with the sweet indulgence of the Lemongrass Crème Brûlée. Saturday to Thursday, 12pm-3pm, QAR 95 per person

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ohlala! boutiques

Look

For Less 2

Stay trendy without breaking the bank with these exceptional findings! 1. COAST, necklace, QR200 2. MILLY 3. COAST, dress, QR644 4. COAST, clutch, QR322 5. COAST, blouse, QR495 6. WOW BY WOJOOH, The Little Black Pot Waterproof Gel Eyeliner, QR90 7. COAST, ring, QR148 8. RIMMEL LONDON, brow compact, QR43 9. RIMMEL LONDON, brow light brown gel, QR25 10. WOW BY WOJOOH, Pure Ink Liner Waterproof Liquid, QR80

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Style

DSQUARED2 We can expect volume on shapes, form, color, texture and proportion from DQUARED2 for their womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s spring/summer 2015 collection. Each piece is infused with volume and each print is inspired by an iconic style. The lavish silhouettes were taken over by colour blocking, gigantic circles printed on raffia silk and Aztec style graphic patterns.

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Dsquare2 Milly

Paco Rabanne

Alice & Olivia Carolina Herrera

Style - Runway look

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Celine

This season’s must-have in your closet are key pieces with a pop of colour and some serious bold statement pieces. From runway looks chic as Carolina Herrera to edgy and funky as Dquared2— all ready to rock for this Spring’s 2015!

Loewe

Marc Jacobs

POP That Colour

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Style

Fashion of the Stars Some of our fave celebs strike a pose in the season’s hottest trends...

FLORALS & PRINTS 1. Carey Mulligan at ASMALLWORLD’s 10th Anniversary Winter Weekend Gala in Gstaad, Switzerland wearing Alexander McQueen with Stella McCartney clutch. 2. Stana Katic wearing a Carolina Herrera dress, Brian Atwood shoes, Amanda Pearl clutch, and Neil Lane jewellery at the People’s Choice Awards in LA. 3. Keira Knightley wearing an Erdem & Jimmy Choo shoes at the AFI Awards Luncheon in LA. 4. Rosamund Pike at the 26th Annual Palm Springs Festival wearing an Alexandar McQueen dress & Brian Atwood heels.

VERDANT GREENS 1. Emily Blunt at the IWC Independent Filmmakers Awards in Dubai in Lanvin with Lorraine Schwartz jewellery earrings & an IWC watch. 2. Amy Adams at the 2105 Golden Globes Party in LA in Roland Mouret SpringSummer 2015 collection, Giuseppe Zanotti pumps & Jimmy Choo clutch. vEmmy Rossum in Carolina Herrera at the 2015 Film Independent Spirit Awards Filmmaker Grant in Hollywood with Ralph Lauren shoes & Piaget jewels. 40

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THE ESSENCE OF STYLE

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Bold &

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The beauTy fixes for auTumn

ExclusivE

Marsuma Designs

Fall’s new Mood

BRIDGING THE GAP BETWEEN ART & FASHION

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Meet

dabya

Qatarâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s very own fashion designer, Dabya Al Khelaifi enchants us with every bit of what it takes to be a fashion and creative director of her successful brand

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Style interview

hat inspired you for your latest collection? My collection was inspired by roses; I usually get my inspiration from nature. Roses are known for their romantic soft look although they are strong enough to live in the surrounded environment. I used pastel shades such as: powder pink, lilac and cream. In this collection, I introduced hand-made roses and leather belts along with the French lace, which is the signature’s brand. As a fashion conscious creator and designer, what is your creating process? My creating process is simple. It starts with the theme and colours and from there I start sketching; then I move to the execution in which the created design becomes real. I might add and remove a few details at this stage until I reach the final look. What kind of woman do you design for? I design for a strong, confident woman who believes that the gown she is wearing is supposed to complement her own beauty and personality. Being a local designer, how do you view fashion in Qatar? In the past few years Qatar has opened up to the world and it has become an attraction and lots of emerging designers in Qatar are working towards presenting their culture and creativity. www.ohlala-magazine.com

“I design for a strong confident woman who believes that the gown she is wearing is supposed to complement her own beauty and personality.”

I think we are all being supported and getting the encouragement from all levels. Any trends that you’re looking forward to? Nothing specific as of yet, but I admire timeless looks as well expressing oneself through their style. Where can we find Dabya’s designs? My designs are available in Doha at Fifty One East - Lagoona mall. What is your style of choice? My style is simple. I tend to be classic and have a refined look. OHLALA!

style

u i M o

u tr i M s

How about conquering the sporty look with some bejewelled beauties? Miu Miu Astro has revolutionised the classic running shoe with shape and shine while giving you that lightness you need when youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re on the go. Form and function are merged to ensure the Miu Miu Astro is as magical to behold as it is soft and flexible to wear. The articulated rubber sole, sourced in the Miu Miu archive, has been reinvented with the addition of little round nubs - part baby hedgehog, part sea creature in appearance. The upper is crafted in a technical satin that is entirely hand-embroidered with constellations of sequins and crystal. The neck of the shoe is cut in sock-like neoprene to ensure a close fit. 44

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style

Fashion

Insider This month we dove into Iman Ghandour’s world as an online retail entrepreneur. She gave us an inside on her beauty secrets, inspirations and more…

What’s your favourite jewellery trend?

I don’t follow a certain trend. I always like to try new fashion, new collections and ideas. However, I would like to mention that I’m in love with Azza Fahmy’s collections, especially the recent Um Kholthoum ones. Each piece is rich in details: unique and sensual. It evokes memories and makes you nostalgic. I like coloured-leathered-layered bangles, small pearls, big rings and simple pendants. Who’s your woman of inspiration? Monica Bellucci. She is so feminine; she is a real symbol of beauty and confidence - proof that the older we become, the brighter we can be. Also Sheikha Mozza, Her Majesty has a royal taste. I love her for her giving, caring and charity activities—for believing in her country and the citizens of Doha! Last but not least, Cristina Fernández de Kirchner,

question! But my go-to are: Prada, Christian Dior, D&G and Karen Millen. And signature scent? I love Gucci, Givenchy, and Escada perfumes. I like perfumes that reflect power and sensuality like the Gucci premiere; a sophisticated, woody, musky fragrance with a touch of orange blossom, bergamot and blackberry— plus sandalwood. What make up trends are you following at the minute? Usually I don’t like to wear a lot make up. I use the basics like: blush, mascara and concealer for my daily wear. I’ve recently taken to strong lipsticks like dark red, or bordeaux as it suits me very well. I tried it once and now I can’t skip a day without wearing this colour on my lips! I like the ‘lash out’, the VERSACE way… We heard you have jumped into the e-commerce business, care to tell us about it? True, I decided to create an online retail platform

“Believe that you can create something out of nothing, believe that when there is a will there is a way.” president of Argentina for her strong character and self-confidence. Whose closet do you covet the most? Cameron Diaz. She has elegant, simple, fresh and comfy looks. And this is me and fits perfectly with my personality… I wouldn’t mind at all having her closet! Your go-to labels? Oh, I have a lot… this is a never ending list. Besides, you should never ask a woman this 46

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that would gather the best Arab designers’ creations and make them available for online shoppers living in the Levant and the GCC area. In January 2015, the project came to life with the launch of “TOPAZ ME” (www.topaz-me.co), a multi-brand retail platform dedicated to Arab designer labels—original fashion trends and gift ideas for all tastes. “TOPAZ ME” is the ultimate website for stylish online shoppers looking for unique,

trendy and handmade fashionable items directly sourced from their favourite Arab designers who are incredibly talented, creative and passionate about their work, not to mention they always have something new to offer. However, many of those have limited resources at the beginning of their career, which prevents them from owning their standalone boutiques and optimising their exposure. So I decided to establish an online platform that gathers, promotes and highlights regional designers while enabling them to show their incredible talents and sell their creations to the entire Arab world. Do you have any advice to women out there who would like to start their business? For every women out there I’d say…believe in yourself. Believe that you can create something out of nothing, believe that when there is a will there is a way. You have to be strong and depend on yourself and always fight hard to get what you want. Dreams can come true if you want to, focus on your goals and get there. We’re strong, so prove it! Visit: www.topaz-me.co www.ohlala-magazine.com

St. Valentine’ s

BRUNCH RELAX AND ENJOY YOUR DAY AT GRAN CAFFÉ www.ohlala-magazine.com

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The Interview

Osman Yousefzada

Known for his architectural eye, unexpected details, hand-painted prints and being a true master at what he does best–Osman Yousefzada invites us into his own creative space.

or the Spring/Summer ‘15 collection what were your main sources of inspiration? When designing the Spring/Summer ‘15 collection I was particularly drawn to the feeling and idea of escapism. I was inspired by the avantgarde attitude and the mystery and adventure of foreign travel. As a result, the collection references a luxurious, bohemian world of eclecticism and exoticism. Everything from Korean street-style stars, Maharajas, English hippies and a Floridian beach-goer from the 1920s played a part in how the collection evolved. What is your creative process when designing and putting an entire collection together? For me, the creative process can start anywhere. I am constantly being inspired – either by someone on the street, an image, a fabric or a print. From there I build a moodboard and develop the key ideas of the collection. This is honed and fine-tuned again and again, until the key message is distilled. What kind of woman wears an OSMAN design? The woman who wears Osman has a personal style, which is easy, unforced and innate. She is intelligent, strong, creative and not a slave to trends – she has a strong sense of personal style. Never trying too hard, she’s equally not afraid to wear a statement piece – she has a flash of ingenuity and inspiration in her approach to dressing. What is your take on how fashion has evolved throughout the years? Is it something that excites you, or is there some room for change? I think fashion has become more relaxed – people now pair easy, basic pieces with strong, statement pieces. The focus on personal style is key to this and I believe that fashion will stay this way for a while. What is the one trend that you gravitate to and keep wanting to go back to? My main objective is always to flatter the female form and to enhance it, so this is always the starting point for my collections. Ultimately, I make sure you see the woman first, before you see the ‘trend’. Each collection falls into the next 48

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– it’s all about building a wardrobe rather than focusing entirely on seasonal trends. That being said, I love exoticism, opulence and the idea of far flung places, but balanced with design and purity of line. It’s that tension that I love and it’s an idea which I’m often drawn back to in my designs. How would you describe your work and your brand? My approach to design has also been to perfect the silhouette and then to introduce an element of whimsicality. Clean lines help keep that important balance so I really focus on the cut. OSMAN is also known for unexpected details abstract motifs, hand-painted prints, embellishment and touches of ethnicity. This understated opulence, which is modern, clean and sophisticated, works well. For the Spring/Summer ‘15 collection there is quite a lot of textile elaboration. Are those textiles, an Osman production? If so, what was the creative process behind creating those textile elaborations? I work with the best fabrics – luxurious textiles such as brocade and techno-crepe are particular favourites of mine – any kind of cloth is a canvas and a new direction for experimentation. Fringing and patchwork have both always been key elements in exoticism and opulence so this was key to the Spring/Summer ’15 collection. Both motifs exude a sense of caravansary and have a distinct voyager element to them, but for SS15 I wanted to take these pieces into a more sophisticated world. Embellishment was integral - cameo inspired pearl embroidery, silk-thread tassels and shard-like embellishment featured throughout the collection. This elevated embellishment feels lavish, but contemporary. For me, this balance is really important. How would you describe your signature look? OSMAN is known for polished, architectural silhouettes with elements of whimsicality introduced through colour, texture, pattern and artisanal hand-finished finishes and detailing. What is your personal definition of a ‘fashion designer’?

For me, a fashion designer must create clothes which are ‘relevant’. On occasions, perhaps these designs should challenge the norm. A designer should also design to sculpt, to hide, to cover and to flatter. The body is a canvas and it has its own theatre. What were key points in your life that led you to be where you are, right now? From an early age I was inspired by my mother’s dress making business – she had her own couture dress making business in my hometown of Birmingham. My favourite errand as a kid was running to the haberdashery for her and I loved seeing a garment progress from a flat piece of material into a finished piece, which is something I helped to develop working alongside my mum. Later, I discovered the wider world of fashion though watching The Clothes Show on television. I learnt at college how you build an image and develop a look, but fundamentally how it’s the design, cut and workmanship of the clothes that

“I was inspired by avant-garde attitude and the mystery and adventure of foreign travel.” make the difference. I later went on to study Fashion Design at Central Saint Martins in London, which led me towards developing my own label. What goals and objectives do you have for 2015? This year I hope to see the line continue to grow and develop internationally. I have some strong partnerships in store for the coming year, which is also really exciting. Looking further down the road, I hope to see the introduction of our own retail stores. It won’t happen overnight, but it’s certainly an objective for the future. www.ohlala-magazine.com

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style

Jewellery Obsession QUATRE JEWELLERY BRILLIANCE & QUATRE RADIANT EDITION With Doha’s Jewellery Exhibition happening this month, we couldn’t help but share the magic of Boucheron’s fine jewellery.

After the solar Radiant Edition, the latest Lumière pieces reinterpret the iconic forms and styles. The QUATRE JEWLLERY BRILLIANCE ring is meticulously adorned with stones. With such sizes and geometries and with its impeccable brilliance, it rewrites the well-known symbols of the ring. With refined work on the space in between, they are tuning codes upside down with stunning graphic effects. The Clous de Paris is now a princess cut, the grosgrains become baguette diamonds and the double gadroon runs its eternal race as round diamonds. As for the QUATRE JEWELLERY BRILLIANCE bracelets in their all-gold version or set with diamonds, they are reclaiming the famous motifs in oversize and openwork. The QUATRE RADIANT EDITION; sculptural, intense and solar is a decisively contemporary monochrome design piece in white, or yellow gold. It has all four bands that have made QUATRE so successful. More than just a ring, it’s an experience in statement of style and personality. In a word, it is everything we love: a unique, exclusive, radiant piece.

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TIMELESS ELEGANCE

24 - 28 FEBRUARY QATAR NATIONAL CONVENTION CENTRE www.djwe.qa Organized By:

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The New form of luxury Urban, bold and luxurious is the new take on tailoring that VERSACE is opting for its WOMENâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S PRE-SPRING 2015 collection

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Beauty

Beauty Buzz It’s a love-fest of new beauty finds this month. Be sure to pick one of these...

Dramatic Entrance I Love Thee

Sephora’s Valentine’s Day collection helps you say those special three words – from scented bubble baths to a box full of passionate declarations of love. The collection also comes with their new signature fragrance for its bath range, the sensual Blue Lilac.

If you’re going out for a romantic dinner, go for Bobbi Brown’s limited edition Party Chic Warm Glow Eye Palette – with nine decadent shades of soft nudes, gilded golds and scotchinspired browns. For lips, it’s all about options – from soft beige gold to bold bordeaux.

“With statement shades and buildable coverage, it caters to all your beauty whims.”

Sensuous Decadence

A Romantic Discovery Go scarlet bold with Bourjois’ Rouge Edition Velvet lipstick. It delivers a beautiful matte finish with a velvety, airy texture that feels and looks glamourous and sexy. It also has a 24-hour hold! www.ohlala-magazine.com

Your romantic date will surely notice you wearing Tom Ford’s latest fragrance, Jasmin Rouge. With an unexpected blend of precious sambac jasmine epals absolute, an ingredient never used before in perfumery, it unveils a new facet of jasmine’s erotic decadence.

Love Me Do Whether you’re heading to a formal

occasion or you just want to glow by a candlelit dinner for two – you’re sure to find the perfect shade in Essie’s latest collection for the season. OHLALA!

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Celebs’ beauty Secrets We thought you ladies might like to take a peek into the beauty regimen of some of your favourite stars. Try one of these indulgent products...

Olivia Palermo

“I travel often so I absolutely rely on beauty products that stand strong through long flight hours from country to country, and climate to climate. This one definitely works for me.”

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“I love that this brand has all the products I need such as cleansers, toner, exfoliators and anti-ageing creams.” www.ohlala-magazine.com

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BEAUTY

Get the look

BORDEAUX CHIC

Foundation.

Use a damp sponge to feather the product and melt it into the skin. It’s also easy to just use your fingers.

For really strong eyes,

put on half-lash strips, and apply a black eyeliner on top to conceal the lash bands. Alternatively, apply two to three coats of volumising black mascara to lashes.

For the cheeks,

apply a red lip stain or a matte red lipstick tapped on with the fingertips, then lightly brush a pink-toned blush over it.

For lips,

dare to be bold and go for a deep berry red shade.

For the eyes,

use a pencil to line inside the eyes and along the lash lines. Pat on dark slate grey eyeshadow up to the crease, blend and wing out. 64

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If you have alabaster skin just like Anne Hathaway’s, bold lips are the secret to waking up a pale complexion. Try these makeup tips, trust us, red isn’t as scary as it sounds. Oh and it’s perfect for impressing that special someone.

Remember to do your brows.

If you can’t go black, go dark brown and comb the product into your brows. www.ohlala-magazine.com

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Beauty files

Nail Files

Colourful nails are trending big time this season! SALLY HANSEN

SALLY HANSEN

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Ohlala! Qatar went on a nail files hunt to bring you what’s trending in the beauty and nails department. It’s all about exotic and daring colours ready to tackle the season.

OPI by Gwen Stefani in Comet In The Sky WOJOOH

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Staying Healthy

We all need some time off. Whether you like to work-out, or enjoy yourself at a day spa, here are Ohlala!â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s recommendations for this month!

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Healthy Files

WORKSHOP WITH JACOB Four Seasons Hotel Doha

VALENTINE’S DELIGHT

We hunted down some must-visit places to relax, enjoy and stay on the ‘healthy track’ because we believe that a healthy mind is the source for a productive life! If you’re into massages, relaxing and releasing all negative energy, SIX SENSES SPA at The Ritz-Carlton Experience Sharq Village & Spa has what you’re looking for. ‘Valentine’s Delight’ is a 30-minute chocolate and brown sugar body scrub followed by a 50-minute full body massage. Using soothing rose oil is the perfect touch to create a delightful ambiance.

End emotional eating now! A 90-minute workshop to learn about the proven and well-tested techniques that will help you deal with emotional eating and food cravings enabling you to make healthier choices. Get a better understanding of why you are having such cravings, working through some of the trauma and pain causing you to continue in a pattern of sabotage. Obtain the tools, knowledge and support to embark on a healthier lifestyle.

AURA READING & MEDITATION

If you’re into meditation and aura reading, we’ve got the perfect thing for you! Let Shivana Aldalja— one of the leading new age well-being consultants in the Middle East— guide you through a truthful journey of meditation and chakra alignment. Find out what colour your aura is, its disturbances and how you can overcome them!

Four Seasons Hotel Doha

Six Senses Spa, The Ritz-Carlton Experience Sharq Village & Spa.

For information call: (974) 4425 6999 or e-mail reservations-sharq-spa@sixsenses.com Open daily from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.

WINTER MAGIC

Repair damaged skin and give it a healthy glow! Four Seasons Hotel’s ‘Winter Magic’, offers an organic tea body scrub with a hot stone massage to enhance relaxation and energy channels with a full Marine Radiance Facial. You can also enjoy a beverage of your choice in the colour therapy room, or relaxation area. Available until March 15 from 9am – 9pm Four Seasons Hotel Doha

PEACEFUL TOUCH

Experience the synergy of different massage techniques from all over the world: Ancient Egyptian Reflexology, Royal Thai stretching, Energetic Kahuna, Lomi Lomi, Indian and Asian techniques, Scandinavian massage and Moroccan Argan scalp massage. This universal head to toe treatment uses a unique combination of essential oil massage to reawaken, nurture and invoke deep relaxation of the mind and body. Available from 9am-9pm Ritz Carlton Doha

Ritz Carlton Doha

POWER YOGA

Experience the power of yoga with a 75-minute dynamic session! Including some great strengthening positions, energise and detoxify yourself to improve your strength, balance and flexibility. Spa And Wellness Center, Four Seasons Hotel Doha.

For Information Call: (974) 44948802 Or E-Mail: Spa.Doh@Fourseasons.Com www.ohlala-magazine.com

Four Seasons Hotel Doha

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Four Seasons Hotel Doha

Healthy files

Maintaining A Healthy Relationship

February is here and any woman should be forgiven if her thoughts occasionally stray towards romantic evenings and marriage proposals. Ohlala!’s Sofia Graniello sat down with relationship psychologist, Martyn Stewart. How often do you get answers to all your relationship questions from an expert?

Martyn Stewart is a relationship psychologist, coach, teacher and consultant. He has over 15 successful years assisting individuals worldwide via his mentoring, teaching and coaching. He is currently Head of Psychology at Doha College. Click his website to find out more about Martyn Stewart www.relationshipsolutions.co.uk

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A quick internet search

revealed Martyn Stewart’s articles on men with ‘daddy issues’; the impact of social media and the most fascinating of all—the breakdown of 27 different types of male personalities in his 2014 book; Why Men Really Cheat – The Psychological Secrets of Male Infidelity. Unlikely we’d be able to cover everything, I chose my questions wisely. I aimed to remain objective and being February, decided to open with a romance question. Every woman needs a little in her life, right? His response was unexpected, “Romance is a gesture. Not an expectation.” “Lots of people are romantic. However, too many people expect romantic relationships, failing to appreciate that the person must want to give it. Such assumptions often lead to severe disappointment when it fails to materialise. If romance is forced or coerced, the true passion is completely extinguished—it’s hollow. So what’s the point? If you seek a romantic partner, it’s

important to take your time in finding one.” “The overwhelming instinct we all possess is to be loved and valued at every moment, which can lure people to rush into relationships for the wrong reasons. Research shows that people will remain in dysfunctional situations due to a crippling fear of loneliness, lack of self-worth, or simply because they become blinded by emotion and make poor decisions; so the ‘consummate love’ they actually crave eludes them.” As I sipped my all-time favourite drink, cappuccino, I couldn’t help but add how women tend to respond emotionally. “It happens to us all, not just women, emotions can sometimes get us in trouble. Yet, simultaneously, they’re one of our greatest relationship assets. They energise us and make life worth living. However, to minimise relationship chaos we must be channelled; balancing emotional expression with realistic thought so neither dominate our lives negatively.” “Our minds are powerful. However, it becomes easier when you can love who you are first. This must come before anybody else can truly return the love that you need in the way you desire. The search for your true individual identity starts at an impressionable age. Years of inappropriate peers, role models and societal influences are interspersed with the strong positive ones; confusing how you think, feel and behave. The mental prisons we create are so heavily guarded, we rarely let anybody close to our private inmates.” “As a result, there are accepted ideals that are rarely challenged (such as perceptions of body image and passive gender roles) which make relationships difficult. By the time we realise many of them are destructive, they’ve been internalised as normal. In their quest for happiness too many people lie to themselves, to the Sternberg’s Triangular theory, identified three components of love; Intimacy, detriment of their own self(i.e. feelings of being connected or attached); Passion (i.e. drives connected to esteem. For relationships limerence and physical attraction) and Commitment – (i.e. the decision to remain/ make plans with another). The different experiences of ‘love’ people feel are which are often ill-fated, explained by different combinations. For example, passion + intimacy is different this is an enormous price to to intimacy + commitment. Relationships based one element is more prone to breakdown than one based on two or three. pay.” As our conversation unfolds, I had a misguided perception of love. I’m sure most women can relate. “A pretty face, may already be destroyed on the inside. However, as long as you breathe air, your identity can never be destroyed,” he claims. “It may just be hidden amongst the debris. If you have to find it and re-invent yourself, be prepared to do so. If you have to forgive yourself, take the first step.” “Although it sounds idyllic, relationships aren’t a fairy-tale. There’s always some ugly revelation hiding behind the curtains. True relationships are realistic. We all want the same thing: a companion, somebody to witness our life unfold. When there are complementarily qualities between partners, growth and maintenance are most fulfilling. You’ll never feel more alive than when you gain true self-acceptance without fear of judgement or ridicule. This takes time. However, there is always opportunity maybe with someone you never expected, so don’t give up.” This wasn’t your average relationship interview. Martyn challenges us to really improve ourselves. He believes fewer relationship problems lead to stronger family units, which in general, should contribute to stability in society. I, for one, would love to talk to him again. www.ohlala-magazine.com

Sat 21st February 2015

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Travel

Beirut

A city unlike any other, quite possibly on the planet, where one often forgets where one is... Words by Nicholas Chrisostomou

ebanon of course borders Syria and Israel, currently two of the most volatile countries in the region, but you don’t feel this when in Beirut because the city’s spirit and inclusive nature overtake anything else which may be going on in the city. Despite ongoing civil unrest, daily electricity cuts, bombings and political turmoil it is the dedicated people of Beirut who ensure that the city continues to live and breathe. It’s the Beirutis’ drive, resilience and determination to survive and move forward, routinely including new people in their culture and day-to-day lives, which is the essence and lifeblood of the city, and my word do they know how to live–like there’s no tomorrow. Every weekend the city’s clubs, bars and restaurants are packed to the rafters with well turned-out locals and excited visitors. Granted they are nowhere near as many tourists in Beirut as there used to be and the hospitality industry (especially hotels) has suffered greatly, but this has not diminished the Lebanese people’s determination to work, play and party with aplomb. The city’s life and soul is still very much present everywhere a tourist would visit and it’s this ‘joie de vivre,’ which is infectious and entices lovers of Beirut back again and again. You know your hotel stay is going to be a bit special when the only guy dressed in a suit at the airport is holding a chrome framed plaque with your name printed inside it, and escorts you to the other side of the airport to buy a SIM, then without being prompted pushes your luggage trolley to a waiting Audi with the engine purring and a driver at the wheel. This level of service says everything about Le Gray, which in my humble opinion is Beirut’s top hotel. Le Gray doesn’t waste valuable space on a vast lobby, instead it has just three reception desks manned 24/7 by professionals skilled to organise

pretty much anything, ensuring that guests’ needs are catered for swiftly and efficiently. Once upstairs the corridors have more in common with a modern art museum than a hotel and Le Gray’s spacious rooms are as comfortable and warm as your home. Indigo, the hotel’s top floor restaurant, affords spectacular vistas of the city and the Blue Mosque. Here I ate one of the best Dover Sole’s I had ever tasted—which I was later told had been flown in that morning from France. Gordon’s Café, at street level, is where the city’s professionals, fashionistas and hipsters meet for traditional British afternoon tea, gossip and pre dinner cocktails. On the odd occasion that I haven’t stayed at Le Gray when in Beirut, I have felt like something is missing from my trip (www. campbellgrayhotels.com). Just across the street from the upmarket Saifi Village (filled with gorgeous shops and boutiques) is the new kid on the block—O Monot—a slick hotel designed by renowned Lebanese architect, Claude Missir. It offers 41 contemporary-styled rooms and suites with excellent food and a chic rooftop terrace, bar and pool. Suite 901 is huge with a walk-in-closet the size of some hotel bedrooms and a bathroom you will never want to leave (www.omonot.com). We kicked off the weekend with cocktails at Centrale, essentially a bar housed inside a 30 metre piece of subway tunnel suspended 20 meters above a restaurant. I could have ridden up and down in the lift all day. Dinner at Gilt (www.giltbeirut.com) was special not only for the food (Gilt’s burger is the best in town), contemporary décor and superb service but also the funky music delivered at just the right volume compiled by the venue’s friendly owner, former nightclub owner Marwan Keyrouz. If you try one of Gilt’s Lychee

“Despite ongoing civil unrest, daily electricity cuts, bombing and political turmoil it is the dedicated people of Beirut who ensure that the city continues to live and breathe.”

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Martini’s you are unlikely to stop at one. No trip to Beirut is complete without a visit to The Music Hall (www.themusichall.com), where Michel Elefteriades’ world famous cabaret-style theatre of continuous live shows are interspersed with pop music. Dancing on a chair or stool is the norm here. Next to our table was a married couple celebrating their 50th wedding anniversary and on the other side a group of 20 somethings having a wild old time. At The Music Hall everyone parties together in harmony. You would never see such a cross section of ages in any European nightlife venue. Undoubtedly the most memorable and authentic gastronomic experience in Beirut can be enjoyed at Tawlet (www.tawlet.com). Kamal Mouzawak’s unpretentious eatery sees a different lady come into the city each week to cook traditional Lebanese dishes from her village. Everything at Tawlet is fresh and beyond delicious. Over in bustling Hamra, Beirut’s university district, costume jewellery and counterfeit sellers vie for street space with chain stores, coffee shops, boutiques, Lebanese restaurants and funky bars. Hamra Street itself is one of main heartbeats of Beirut and certainly worth seeing but not somewhere you’d want to spend more than an evening when the area is at its most lively. BistroBar Live, in the new courtyard area of Makdessi Street in the heart of Hamra, is a casual venue which serves great drinks and moorish food to a background of live music. Usually packed, it’s advisable to book in advance. It is also worth a visit just to see its zany upside down décor! Round off a night of excessive beverage consumption with a late night detour to Babar for an www.ohlala-magazine.com

inexpensive and tasty shawarma, or two. Dining at the Beirut outpost of La Petite Maison (www.lpmbeirut.com) is a fine experience from start to finish, thanks to the attentiveness of general manager Yannick and his impeccably trained team. The food is of the incredibly high standard we have all come to expect from LPM in Dubai. Save LPM Beirut for your last night in the city, or better still, a special occasion when the attentive staff will effortlessly deliver a night to remember—the cheesecake is to die for. Hotel Albergo is an exquisite boutique hotel located in the centre of Achrafieh, 5 minutes from downtown Beirut. Exotically styled by Tarfa Salam, Albergo’s lavish interior design scheme skillfully mixes hand-painted wallpapers, Oriental carpets, antique furniture and Murano crystal chandeliers creating a unique and warm environment. The Panoramic Restaurant on the roof mirrors the tastefully eccentric décor of the hotel’s 33 suites and is perfect for a long, informal lunch with a good friend (www.albergobeirut.com). Adding to Beirut’s huge selection of restaurants and bars, the city’s huge selection of fashion stores, Zaitunay Bay filled with super yachts (www. zaitunaybay.com), the impressive Beirut National Museum (www.beirutnationalmuseum.com) and former prime minister Rafik Hariri’s beautiful Mohammad Al-Amin Mosque in Martyrs’ Square and you have the perfect ingredients for an unforgettable short break.

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Queen Mary

A Holiday fit for

a queen Leonie Trubshoe takes us through the pinnacle of a luxurious and relaxing holiday vacation – fit for a Queen...

special event, the end of a working year, the end of a GCC contract, or simply a need for time out, heralds the eternal search for where to go and what to do. Visiting relatives can be demanding, exploring new places means long waits for flights and having to panic pack for the next stage of the journey, but now cruising is becoming more popular. The ultimate holiday, without a doubt, is one as far away from work as possible (but still with the ability to connect in an emergency) and with plenty of ‘me’ time to be pampered. And the ultimate way to achieve this is on the world’s most luxurious, 5-star passenger liner, Cunard Line’s flagship - Queen Mary 2. Carrying around 2,600 passengers, this enormous liner recently celebrated its 10th anniversary of the iconic Trans-Atlantic journey from Southampton to New York, but also offers a range of shorter voyages across European and Scandinavian ports, and into the Caribbean, before setting off around the world again in January 2015. As one long-term cruiser puts it, for the equivalent daily cost of a retirement village apartment, he gets to travel the world visiting exciting countries, meeting new and interesting people, enjoying plenty of entertainment and excellent food and still has access to appropriate medical care, health and fitness options on board. But the Queen Mary is not only for those at the end of their careers, there is also a full Kids Club catering for children from babies to teenagers with supervised play and entertainment through to meal-times and a structured dinner schedule to fit in with parents’ plans. And there’s even the possibility – with enough notice – to charter the whole ship, complete with its 1253 crew. While German, Spanish and French hostesses are always on board, additional translators are 74

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employed if there is a large number of passengers from another non-English speaking country. Without a doubt, one of the major highlights of the Queen Mary 2 is the food – from the continual running buffets, to the themed restaurants, the healthy snacks and even specific recommendations from the Canyon Ranch Spa. The cuisine on board – overseen by Executive Chef Klaus Kremer, is spread between a range of locations, the main restaurant being the Britannia with two seating styles – early or late to correspond with shows and other activities on board. The extensive buffet of the Kings Court by day, becomes Italian, Asian and by night, with some clever shape-shifting, is casual dining – the Todd English Restaurant requires a minor supplement to the cost. The service, location and ambience however, more than compensate. Known for its ability to go ‘the extra mile’ the Queen Mary 2 can make special arrangements

QM2 in the mists of Oslo November 2014.

for its Middle East and Muslim passengers given enough advance notice, says Glenn Millway, food and beverage manager. Not only are special dietary requirements catered to, including the provision of Halal food, but during the period of Ramadan, a separate dining area can be set up for Muslim guests so they are able to dine outside of the usual timings. However, the luxury of the formal nights at other times of the year, where gowns and jewels glitter under the chandeliers, is undoubtedly a highlight to be shared. For non-Muslims, the volume of wine to be carried has huge challenges as ordering is done three to four months in advance and is influenced by the itinerary. There is a huge difference in palate between the South Pacific and Europe where the traditional winemakers are changing and becoming more stylish than before. The wine list, changed every two years, has a connoisseur page for high value wines for guests who don’t mind spending a bit more and for those still learning, winemakers come on board and do special presentations on their products. Unlike a city-based holiday, if passengers feel like taking in a live show, or a movie, or even an art exhibition, these are available on board without the hassle of finding taxis and traversing the city. The Royal Court Theatre is designed to be like the London Palladium, presenting a variety of themed dance extravaganzas, music — both instrumental and vocalists —and even guest performances from the famous RADA (Royal Academy of Dramatic Art) students. There are 33 musicians on board including two full orchestras (Royal Court and Queen’s Room) for shows, dancing and session performances; a jazz trio, string quartet, harpist, contemporary band, three guest pianists and a DJ. The Queen’s Room caters mainly for the older audience with a more-ballroom orientated orchestra playing. Six dance hosts are also in www.ohlala-magazine.com

attendance for those women travelling alone who still wish to take a spin on the dance floor. VIBZ, the contemporary band, plays in four venues throughout the ship. Their main place of residence is the G32 nightclub, a home they share with the resident DJ. Their music is upbeat, disco mode 70s, 80s, 90s and, depending on the passenger list, older Rock ‘n’ Roll numbers, but by midday they can be found at the poolside either outdoor when the weather suits, or in the covered pavilion when inclement. Here, these seasoned performers are called on to read their audience and play accordingly, incorporating the steel drum for a Caribbean twist. There is a fascinating lecture programme offered on each voyage, which ranges from information about the ship itself presented by former officers, to authors and experts in their fields. On an around Australia cruise earlier this year, a forensic scientist fascinated passengers with stories of cases she had explored, while the TransAtlantic anniversary voyage featured a renowned author and Arabist, who later autographed copies of his book at the excellent on-board library. Clarendon Fine Art, London’s most prestigious higher-end art gallery, has the concession from Carnival for all three Queen ships. On Queen Mary 2 they feature 200 wellknown artists from 30 countries (including those also collected by the Royal family) - with both originals and limited editions to view and/or purchase. Six to eight artists also come on board www.ohlala-magazine.com

Top left; Captain Kevin Oprey with Maureen and Robert Spencer. Top right; The Millan family from Miami. Right; International band VIBZ turn up the volume in the G32 club every night. Piero Pagliari and his team plan special port tours for passengers.

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Queen Mary each round-the-world journey, with some doing art classes for passengers, or one-off events. There is a fully operating casino when Queen Mary 2 is in international waters only and they strictly abide by the regulations of each country once they reach territorial waters. There are also spa lectures balanced in line with the passenger age groups. The on-board Canyon Ranch Spa, one of the most luxurious spa groups in the world, has both beauty therapy areas and salons. Although open daily with fixed hours, the spa centre, salon, aqua-therapy areas and the gym (complete with personal fitness instructors) can be booked privately for women- only groups, including Muslim women who may wish to use the spa outside of the hours usually frequented by both male and female passengers, spa director Amanda Wilson says. With up to 33 staff on board employed in the Canyon Ranch, all male and female beauty requirements are catered to from nail, hair and skin care, to fitness classes, healthy feet assessments complete with posture and gait analysis, acupuncture and chiropractic. There are even 12 massage therapists, each with a specific skill set from Thai and shiatsu massage for example, to reflexology and sports massage. On board Cunard voyage sales specialists, Petra and Yo Yo say that many passengers try a short cruise first to try out both their sea legs (not a major issue due to the world-class stabilisers on the ship) and the services offered. They are then able to sit and discuss the myriad of options available on both the Queen Mary 2 and her sister ships Queen Elizabeth and Queen Victoria. For families travelling together, there is the option of adjourning suites, connecting rooms, or a range of classes to suit both travellers and staff if required. There is a range of cabins, known as State Rooms, which range from small inside rooms with no porthole (window) and simple facilities, through to penthouse style luxury suites. Facilities in the five Grand Duplex include two staff – a butler and an assistant; two walk-in wardrobes; three bathrooms – one for guests, an ensuite and a full-size bathroom with a spa bath/jacuzzi from where you can look through the full-size window at the ocean as you luxuriate; a range of entertainment and/ or work options including Ipad, games consul, television, DVD player for which you place your orders with the butler for your watching choice, binoculars to watch the dolphins and whales spotted during the journey, treadmill for private exercise; and also your own food preparation kitchen for either your own staff 76

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Philip and Liz Cooper from Oregon bring Flash and Rebus to the UK to travel with them.

or the butler to cater for your snacks and meals….. and that’s not to mention your own private deck to sunbathe giving you all the privacy such a suite demands. All guests are given VIP service with even the travelling pets (predominantly dogs) on the Trans-Atlantic voyages having their own chef to prepare their individual meals as per the owners’ requests and their dietary requirements. The dogs have their own kennel master and many frequent Trans-Atlantic travellers bring their dogs and/or cats. The owners visit and can walk and play with their pets in a private area at the very top of the ship away from other passengers – very few know it’s there unless they go looking. As passengers journey towards each port, Piero Pagliari and his team are available on board to plan group or individual excursions for passengers wishing to take in the sights available in every port and every cruise. Piero says that sometimes groups prefer to make up their own

excursions and once they tell him what their interests are, they can create a special tour just for them, with even guides available who speak the language of the passengers if given notice in advance. All three ships complete a world cruise in 2015 on different routes offering passengers the full 61 nights, or a variety of options within that from eight nights upwards. These bring in Asia, Australasia, the Americas or Africa, with links and tours also available in Hong Kong, Singapore, Dubai and Cape Town. For those who want to see these distant places, cruising on the luxurious Queen Mary 2 offers a true holiday without the stress of a long flight, as well as the bonus of continuous food service, spa luxury, music and entertainment, a cinema with the latest movies, games, swimming pools, lectures and classes on everything from dancing to computers, and even a planetarium so guests not only feel like a star, but can watch them too. www.ohlala-magazine.com

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What’s NeW

Thomene Dilley

Ohlala! Qatar sat down with Doha’s new charismatic songstress! Willies; David Byrne; The B-52’s; Siouxsie and the Banshees; How did you come about to be involved in the Iggy Pop; Bill Withers; The Rudimentals; James Brown; music industry? Squirrel Nut Zippers and Fat Freddy’s Drop to name but a At the age of thirteen I was invited to perform at Blackwood few. Farm Festival on stage by a very special band back home Do you have any projects in the pipeline? What can (Tananas). I sang two songs by Janis Joplin—accapello— and we expect from Thomene Dilley for 2015? the moment I heard my voice amplified, I was hooked. I was I am hoping to collaborate with a few interesting musicians invited back the following two years. here and to yank myself out of an age-old comfort zone. In my teens I got involved with Rip Curl Australia and I would love to experiment with different genres and I will their second edition of the surfing documentary “The be recording at least one great song here this year. Keep Search” with pro surfers Frankie Oberholzer from South an eye on my FB page (Thomene Dilley Musician) for Africa on rhythm guitar and Pico from Australia on more projects and performances coming up! acoustic and vocals. It was a very exciting project, run by You’ve got upcoming performances at Grand Hyatt ex-pro surfer, Derek Hynd. I got to perform with some Doha on February 13 and 14. Can you give us any very talented musicians and it helped forge a huge love spoilers on what we can expect? of music and film. In 2000 I met David Beukes-King At such an established hotel like Grand Hyatt Doha and we recorded the club-hit song “Free your Mind” expect delicious food, great service and superb acoustics under the pseudonym “DJ Spanky feat. Delicious (me)”. at both venues. I am lining up a beautiful song list of Represented by promoter Kim Saville, “Free your Mind” loungey tracks laced with a fabulous vibe. was entered into The Future Sound If you had to choose a musician to of Cape Town rising to number Save the Date collaborate with, who would it be three on the national radio’s Five and why? FM playlist. I have played with a few Thomene Dilley will be performing an Ella bands and my love affair with music Fitzgerald themed brunch, “Queen Of I would have to say Satchmo, the legendary Mr Armstrong. They say has since grown. After a break from Jazz” at The Grill on February 13 his personality matched his flashy music to focus on film production and “Up Close & Personal cornet and trumpet playing style. He for a few years, I have decided it With Thomene Dilley” on was a great entertainer and his colourful is time to reinvent myself as a solo Valentine’s night, February 14 at Dunes, personality certainly shone through artist and I look forward to making both at Grand Hyatt Doha Hotel. his music. I love his collaborations, my mark in Qatar. especially when he sang “Baby, It’s Cold Outside” with What inspires Thomene, musically? Velma Middleton. I love the satire and they clearly had Music is a universal language. In a split second, a song can great chemistry during the song. take me back to a specific time, place or event. While it plays What would you say about Doha’s music scene? I can smell, taste and feel the memory. I find inspiration Qatar is constantly growing. Doha is packed with incredibly watching my son having a belly laugh, or when I swim in the talented musicians and I have seen some fantastic ocean. Even preparing and cooking a feast from scratch does performances. As a newbie however, I sense there is a huge it for me. There is inspiration everywhere and that makes gap, a need for a wider variety of genres. I look forward to anyone want to sing, even if it is only in the shower! seeing the music scene grow and would love to witness an What artists can we find in your iPod? outdoor music festival right here in the city of sand and London Grammar; Paulo Nutini; The Jacksons; The The; grand people. Brand New Heavies; Fink; Nina Simone; Koop; The Little 78

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Photograph by Angel Mallari www.ohlala-magazine.com www.thescenestealer.com

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What’s New

KARL LAGERFELD & Its Concept Store Karl Lagerfeld’s long-awaited concept store in Qatar has finally come true…

Fashion powerhouse, Karl Lagerfeld has opened its first concept store in the Middle East, and Qatar has the privilege to house such a prominent brand. Located at Lagoona Mall, us fashionistas are in for a treat! “We are pleased to announce the opening of the first KARL LAGERFELD store in the Middle East in Doha, Qatar,” says Pier Paolo Righi, CEO of KARL LAGERFELD. “As we continue to develop our business on a global scale, the Middle East remains a central area of focus. Our new Doha store represents an ideal opportunity for us to showcase our iconic, cool and accessible luxe collections and represents an important step in, while further elevating and expanding our brand’s presence in the region.” The new Doha store will showcase the brand’s women’s collections including ready-to-wear, accessories, bags, watches, fragrances, eyewear, and exclusive novelty items such as limited-edition objects. Make sure to visit the iconic store and dive into an all-fashion extravaganza! 80

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Exquisite Authentic Moroccan Cuisine Reward your senses with the majesty of authentic Moroccan cuisine at Argan, where traditional décor, entertainment and spices blend together for a magnificent dining experience.

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Immerse yourself in the seductive scents and rich ﬂavours of Morocco’s favourite dishes, or hold court over a sweet Moroccan tea and handmade pastries at the plush Majlis.

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Art Corner

Ali Hassan Qatari artist, Ali Hassan to showcase at Anima Gallery This upcoming month, Anima Gallery will be showcasing a solo exhibition by Qatari artist, Ali Hassan. The exhibition will contain visionary art pieces of different mediums: paintings, sculptures and photographs done by the exceptional local artist. Ali Hassan was born in Doha, Qatar with a peculiar interest on Arabic calligraphy, which led him to work as a calligrapher for local newspapers. “Through my art I wanted to show my audience that it is not necessary for the artist to consider all letters but rather, that is possible for an artist to focus on a single letter his entire life because of the beauty, power, timelessness and malleability of a single Arabic letter,” states the artist. Today he has exhibited extensively internationally, including a solo exhibition in Tokyo and group shows in Zurich, Paris and New York. He is Chairman of the Doha organizations, the Youth Creative Art Center and the Girl’s Creativity Art Center. Save the date: February 8th to April 30th, 2015 at Anima Gallery. The Pearl, Doha-Qatar.

My Museum A New interactive display on identity and what it represents for young Qataris to show at the Museum of Islamic Art’s Library… Qatar Museum’s Family Programmes and students from Qatar Academy Doha have worked closely to produce their latest interactive display called ‘My Museum.’ The project involves more than 12 in-depth workshops, activity sessions and museum visits over a three-month period during school hours, after school and at weekends. During their visits, children are to develop their creative thinking, problem solving, self-motivation and independence throughout ‘My Museum’ interactive project. The educational idea has been showcasing since last month. A genuine and well-thought project to educate the young generation of Qatar.

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Chic eats

Ningún otro como PAMPANO

Ohlala! Qatar hunted downan exquisite Mexican restaurant intown!

Pampano, a ‘casual, contemporary and truly Mexican restaurant,’ takes pride in delivering delicious burritos, sizzling fajitas and a tempting selection of tacos, however Ohlala! Qatar discovered that there is more to this over-the-top restaurant. Located at the Pearl-Qatar with a majestic outdoor terrace, the prominent and authentic —all Mexican restaurant— will leave you craving for more with their all-traditional-Mexican dishes. Not only were we in for a delicious and tantalising treat, the pleasant and memorable experience we had was truly a thrilling one. With high-rounded pillars in the middle decorated with an all-Aztec theme, with blue and white ceramic plates complementing the venue’s décor and Latin music playing in the background, you definitely feel encapsulated into the experience. Ohlala! Qatar invites you to try their exquisite dishes if you happen to visit. Go for the Special Guacamole, a mix of pomegranate, strawberries, apple, avocado, walnuts and balsamic vinegar—for an all-exoticfresh delicacy! For those who prefer a crunchy bite try their Traditional Nachos accompanied with some pico de gallo, cheese, sour cream, guacamole and more. For those who crave the exquisite fajitas, Pampano makes sure to satisfy everyone’s palate by having an assorted range of chicken, beef, shrimps and vegetables. Not only is the food heavenly, their assorted drinks with exotic combinations are suitable to accompany any dish: Apasionado is a blend of fruitpassion, raspberry, mint leaves topped-up with sprite; Toro Negro is a mouthwatering infusion of blackberry, basil, chili, topped-up with redbull – all come highly recommended by Pampano. As a consumer not only are the food and beverages enticing, the warm and welcoming staff make the all-Mexican experience a more enjoyable one. As Ohlala!’s recommendation of the month, discover the magic yourself and get to Pampano!

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GO: For more information or reservations call 4495 3876 www.ohlala-magazine.com

HAPPY CHINESE NEW YEAR! THURSDAY, 19TH FEBRUARY 2015

The Year of the Sheep

at Ruby Wuâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Chinese restaurant promises to be a start of an exciting and memorable period as the Lunar Chinese New Year is welcomed with 3 special set menus and Lucky Lai See packets to ensure a stream of good luck in the coming year.

RESERVATIONS +974 4428 1555

HOTELS DESIGNED TO SAY YES! www.ohlala-magazine.com

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Chic Eats

ORYX ROTANA DOHA CHOICES Romantic Dinner at Choices! Delight your ‘other-half ’ to a sumptuous dinner in an elegant and cosy atmosphere with a touch of romanticism. Enjoy their house beverages, house spirits, digestives and aperitifs. Great for a night out! GO: For information or reservations 44023333

JAIDAH SQUARE PAPER MOON Who said eating gold wasn’t allowed? Try Paper Moon’s first and only gold risotto in town! Try their tantalising dish with a real sheet of gold a true delicacy just in time for the 12th Jewellery and Watches Exhibition. GO: For information or reservations 4016 6000

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA THE CITY THE SQUARE Are you ready for the ‘Valentine’s Walk of Love’? Join the evening dinner and indulge in a romantic journey at each of their four live cooking stations to sample an array of aphrodisiac foods. Then pose with your loved one with their photographer to capture this memorable evening in a takehome memento. GO: For information or reservations 4015 8888

THE PEARL PORTO ARABIA, CROISETTE 18 AL TABKHA If you’re craving Arabic and Lebanese cuisine, we’ve got the perfect combo for you! A fast-casual restaurant concept offering healthy homemade Lebanese cuisine in a familyfriendly environment. GO: For information or reservations 44953876 86

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Breakfast at Tiffany’s

DOHA MARRIOTT JW’S STEAKHOUSE/ASIA LIVE/SALSA/TAJ RASOI Yum! We couldn’t miss out on passing on the note that all these restaurants at Doha Marriott will introduce their ‘Valentine’s Day Set Menu’ this month. A romantic evening with delicious food! Enjoy a sumptuous selection of fresh oysters, exquisite strawberries and chocolate surprises. GO: For information and reservations 44298499

THE RITZ-CARLTON, DOHA LA MER RESTAURANT This month, enjoy the perfect ‘Afternoon Tea with a View’. A great deal of poetry in a cup of tea! Enjoy delectable teas and a luxury afternoon with friends. GO: For Information or reservations 4484 8506

RADISSON BLU HOTEL DOHA

FOUR SEASONS HOTEL DOHA

PICASSOS On February 24 participate in a one-of-a-kind event. Have a go creating your very own painting whilst indulging in tasty tapas with selected ‘grape juice’. Carry away your own painting with you! GO: For information or reservations 44281555

NUSANTAO Pecking Duck delights! Savour a succulent flavour of Pecking Duck in a myriad of ways. A tantalising set menu that will satisfy your palate. GO: For information or reservations 4494 8600

GRAND HYATT DOHA

TORNADO TOWER 28th Floor

ISAAN Craving an aphrodisiac dinner? Celebrate the Thai on February 14 way by enjoying a sharing concept where each dish is specially prepared by chef de cuisine Wachira Chaipinidnorrachart. A spectacular four-course set menu! GO: For information or reservations 7021 8097

THE ANVIL ROOMS Celebrate February 14 at The Anvil Rooms with a selection of special dishes designed to share. The Anvil Rooms offers a truly romantic experience with breathtaking views across the Arabian Gulf. GO: For information or reservations 4499 0685 www.ohlala-magazine.com

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The Lexus RC-F

We take a drive in Lexus’s answer to the BMW M4 – the RC-F coupe. It’s a 467hp 5.0l V8 muscle car combined with that famous Lexus luxury. Is it a successful combination? We find out…

e say that the RC-F is Lexus’s challenge to the BMW M4 because that’s the industry line – they’re in the same segment, and the motoring media is rife with direct comparisons, but we don’t think is necessarily fair. Yes, they’re both coupes and their power figures are comparable, but in reality, they’re two very different cars. 88

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Diva Drives Whereas the M4 is a hard-edged, trackloving monster that you can still drive on the roads, Lexus have taken a very different route with the RC-F. It is much more of a forgiving, yet lively GT, calm and tranquil in highway cruising or city driving, but still ready to get lairy on a twisting mountain road. For these reasons, we’re happy to consider the RC-F on its own merits. And its merits are many – it has a beautiful, beefy V8 that purrs quietly at cruising speeds, but comes alive with a roar at about 6000rpm when you want to have some fun. It’s naturally aspirated, so those 471 horses are all there as soon as you touch the gas. In an age where so many are dropping their V8s for turbo-charged V6s, it’s nice to see someone still doing it old-school. I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again – there’s no replacement for displacement! Although, it does have to be said, that big V8 is thirsty. The eco mode does help a bit, but unless you want to drive like grandma pretty much all the time, expect to be filling the tank every couple of days. In second and third gears in Sport mode the power delivery is instant and brutal, like a dropkick in the back. On a hot run in Sport mode and manual along a twisting road, it was pretty much second and third all the way, and boy was it fun! I said forgiving previously, because no matter how hard I pushed it, it never felt like it was trying to get away from me – at all times I felt composed and in control, so it’s one of those cars that practically anyone can walk away from feeling like a hero. It has superb levels of grip, even for the relatively heavy coupe that it is (200kg heavier than the M4) thanks to the TVD (torque vectoring differential), which can be set to normal, track or slalom, and works like a charm. The RC-F boasts an eight-speed automatic gearbox, to try and improve that fuel economy, but this does have its drawbacks. In the Normal setting, the auto box seems to have some trouble deciding which gear to be in. In Sport auto mode, however, the RC-F gets it exactly right, holding the revs long enough in the corners and shifting down hard with a satisfying bark under heavy braking. The shifts are also extremely fast and smooth, almost unnoticeable when you’re just cruising along in normal driving conditions. Inside, the RC-F has its ups and downs. The centre console looks rather dated, and the whole dash doesn’t look as premium as it should www.ohlala-magazine.com

“I felt composed and in control, so it’s one of those cars that practically anyone can walk away from feeling like a hero.”

in a car like this, despite the noticeable high-end Mark Levinson Audio badge on the stereo. The seats, on the other hand, are perfection, with a comfortable, figure hugging design, and the in-seat aircon is always welcome in the Gulf. The rear seats don’t have much in the way of legroom, but are usable as long as the people in the front aren’t too tall. It’s far more than a 2+2 configuration that some coupes offer. Rear boot space is commendable as well, with a usable amount of room for luggage. I believe the RC-F is exactly what it should be – a luxurious GT that’s satisfying and usable as an everyday drive, but which has a hidden dark side that can be unleashed when you come across one of ‘those’ epic roads. It’s a little too big and heavy to be a true track-day car, but for everything else, fill your boots!

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shopping

WHERE TO BUY

Carolina Herrera, bracelet

ABCD Alexander McQueen +974 4495 2231; Ali Bin Ali +974 4413 1391; Al Jaber Watches +974 447 7422; Armani Exchange +974 4416 1003; BCBG Max Azria +974 4450 7082; Bershka +974 4413 5583; Blugirl +974 6665 5004; Boots +974 450 4551; Boucheron +974 4425 7744; Burberry +974 4413 4551; Bulgari +974 4413 4568; Carolina Herrera +974 4413 4748; Celine +974 4413 4763; Chaumet +974 4495 3875; Chloe +974 4495 2181; Chopard +974 4483 0100; Christian Louboutin +974 4450 7004; City Centre Doha +974 4483 9990; Desigual +974 4416 1851; D’NA +974 4002 7911; Dior +974 4413 4665; Dolce & Gabbana +974 4416 1007.

EFGH Elisabetta Franchi +974 6665 5004; Emilio Pucci +974 4464 3533; Ermanno Scervino +974 4017 6089; Etro +974 4495 3876, ext 1981; Faces +974 4450 7189; Fendi +974 4460 09545; Fifty One East +974 4436 1111; Gap +974 487 6962; Giorgio 90

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Armani +974 4495 1921; Gucci +974 4413 4612; Hermes +974 4495 1911; Hoss Intropia +974 4450 7885; H&M +974 4450 7628.

IJKL Jacob Cohen +974 4017 6083; Jimmy Choo +974 4468 4850; Jo Malone +974 4451 7020; Katherine Pooley London +974 4407 7171; Karen Millen +974 4413 4503; Lacoste +974 4450 7191; Landmark Mall +974 4487 5222; Lagoona Mall +974 4433 5555; Louis Vuitton +974 4413 4928; L’Occitane +974 4450 7585.

MNOP MAC +974 483 9763; Mango +974 4487 4612; Massimo Dutti +974 4413 5109; Merch +974 4465 8651; Milly +974 4450 7084; Miss Selfridge +974 4413 5281; Miu Miu +974 44644 082; Omega +974 4451 9750; Oysho +974 4413 509; Paris Gallery +974 459 2060; Patrizia Pepe +974 6665 5004; Philipp Plein +974 4411 1245; Pinko +974 4413 5818; Prada +974 4464 4908; Promod +974 4450 7976; Pronovias +974 4416 1856; Pull & Bear +974 4413 5021.

QRST QELA +974 4002 7594; Quis Quis +974 4468 4686; Ralph Lauren +974 4413 5655; Rivaage Doha +974 4436 3640; River Island +974 4013 5285; Rivoli Arcade +974 4015 8667; Roberto Cavalli +974 4480 2856; Salam +974 4448 5555; Salsa +974 4413 5062; Salvatore Ferragamo +974 4495 1941; Sephora +974 4450 7345; Stella McCartney +974 4495 2281; Tag Heuer +974 4411 5969; Temperley London +974 4407 7183; The Closet +974 4442 2218; The Vanity Room +974 4495 3299; Tommy Hilfiger +974 4312 9899; Topshop +974 413 5015; Toujouri +974 4495 6244; Twin Set +974 6665 5004.

UVWYZ Uterque +974 4413 5580; Valentino +974 4416 1008; Van Cleef & Arpels +974 4416 9399; Vera Wang +974 4495 5157; Versace +974 4447 7333; Versace Collection +974 4413 5437; Villa Moda Qatar +974 4493 5651; Villaggio Mall +974 4413 5278; Vinicci +974 4450 7917; Wojooh +974 4450 7189; Zara +974 4413 4881; Zai Boutique +974 4409 2600. www.ohlala-magazine.com

Entertainer Qatar 2015 There is nothing better than a launching event! This past month Ohlala! enjoyed the launch of the Entertainer Qatar 2015 at the prominent Rocca Terrace, Grand Hyatt Doha Hotel. Many were gathered to enjoy: music, friends, bubbly drinks and the perfect outdoor weather.

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Gran Caffé Londra A tantalising and exquisite taste event was held at the GRAN CAFFÉ LONDRA located at Villaggio Mall. The all-Italian café launched their fourteen new starters which will put your palate to the test. We caught up with Fabio Riondino, kitchen manager, on his authentic-Italian recipes!

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Shot-on-site

Sneak Peek Lunch at Intercontinental Doha The City

A new lunch menu has arrived at Hwang! We are delighted that the Bento Box is the latest foodie idea joining the restaurant which offers an interactive and diverse menuâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;a true one of a kind. The team at Ohlala! canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t recommend it enough.

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Shot-on-site

Sheraton Doha Resort & Convention Hotel Hall We caught up this past month with the prominent hotel and their renovated premises. From their lavish murano chandelier to their exquisite outdoor scenery, everything is set up to enjoy some relaxing time!

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Luncheon Gathering Oyster, The Pearl-Qatar hosted a delicious luncheon gathering this past month welcoming media management and staff, and later proceeded to a wonderful gift award.

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Shot-on-site

InterContinental Doha The City Rings in 2015 with a full house

For the second year, the hotel offered a unique New Year’s Eve celebration in which guests dining at The Square, Prime and Hwang were invited to finish off the evening and the year on The Bridge. Hundreds of people enjoyed the music, drinks and a balloon drop. Meanwhile, a fully packed Strata Restaurant and Lounge on the hotel’s 55th and 56th floor toasted the New Year overlooking the magnificent Doha cityscape. 96

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Merch Dar Al Salam 1st Anniversary! Congratulations to Merch for paving the way to one successful year at Dar Al Salam. Ohlala! Qatar couldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t miss out on celebrating one of the top leading distributors of luxurious brands on their latest achievement. Well done! www.ohlala-magazine.com

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Christian Lo

uboutin, sketc

the column

MissOhlala

Confessions of a newly single girl… I’m single, I’m in my 20s and I’m a city girl at heart. I’ve just come out of a four-year relationship and I’m thinking to myself, “How did I let that happen?” How did I let a man control every bit of my existence? How did I let his happiness become more important rather than my own? We’ve all been part of toxic relationships, relationships that leave a permanent footprint on our sleeve and no matter how much we shake it off—it’s futile. They say I’m a woman with a bit too much attitude, I 98

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like to think of it as, ‘I know what I bring to the table’, sort-of-thing. Let’s face it, how many of us have been comfortable in a relationship not wanting to step out fearing of new changes? We tend to get pretty comfortable in relationships. We get lazy not wanting to work on our spark! Truth is: relationships are all about daily maintenance. One thing I’ve come to quickly learn after breakingup with my ‘prince charming’, is how important and essential having separate and mutual lives is. Being in my 20s and living in Doha is by far the most dangerous task I’ve come to enjoy. Let’s be honest, it’s extremely difficult to find a serious

man wanting to have a serious relationship. The first question I ask when going on a date is: “How long are you staying in Doha for?” No one wants a serious courtship, everything is: ‘let’s talk, let’s date, let’s take things slow…’ I’m not going to lie, at the minute everything is Cartier & Tiffany’s and indulging myself with expensive gifts; splurges I never meant to have at my early 20s. I got tired of building my own happiness around a man, someone who might wake up and say, “I don’t love you anymore…” Baby, my Christian Louboutin would never dare to say that! For quite some time I believed I was supposed to be married with two kids by now, truth is—I needed a kick to let my inner ambition come to surface. Now this is the part where you’re thinking, “she is bitter!” Probably. I like to call it—power. The power of learning, the power of becoming independent from someone else’s opinion, the power of running to my needs rather than his. Your 20s are for messing up and living it up! My phone apps are reduced to: Twitter, Facebook and Instagram. Long are the days where I was worrying about my daily Viber, or Tango calls, as well as stressing over small things and worrying over non-existing problems. Let’s be real, us girls, we create problems, we enjoy every single bit of them—we love drama! All I currently stress about is whether I should add milk to my (morning) coffee, or not. I have simplified my life; I have learned to choose my battles. These are just some of my confessions as a newly single gal running around in a city like Doha… Miss Ohlala! www.ohlala-magazine.com

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WATCH THE FILM AT JIMMYCHOO.COM VILLAGGIO MALL GATE 8 VIP AREA +974 4468 4850

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