Woman Today September 2011 by Oryx Group of Magazines

contents

sEPTEMBER 2011

25 terms for dummies

Woman Today’s mini-glossary of car terms.

Beauty on wheels

The top 10 cars that women will simply love.

‘Brake’ the rules... Tips for crash-free travel.

Drive a greener road...

Carbon dioxide emissions are directly proportional to the fuel your car consumes. A few tips for an eco-friendly drive.

Revamp your car

Here’s a check-list of all that you could possibly do to spruce up your ride.

Which car ma’am? Reinventing the wheel? Nah! just test driving it...

Things to remember before you visit your local car dealers.

Fast and the fabulous

Woman Today profiles those who have lived their dreams with their hands on the wheel.

Anger on the Highways

We all get frustrated from time to time with another person’s driving. But road rage is bigger than that explains Sonya Schneider-Ghaddar.

WT TRANSFORM 10

Transform, Tigers and Thailand...

Alyson writes of her successful detox treatment at The Spa Resort and the many other thrills that the retreat had to offer.

16 world wide women

52 health & fitness

Healthy aspirations

Amel Osman scouts the best ways to stay fit in Doha.

Ladies only yoga “Market yourself. Grab the limelight.”

Qatari businesswoman Buthaina Al-Ansari, in an interview to Vani Saraswathi, encourages women to get out of their homes and seek a solution for the problems, instead of whining their days away.

Paint your dreams

Cartoonist Kholood Al-Ali’s paintings are inspired by the Japanese Manga comics – a style that is hard to be accepted among the dominant traditional art community in Qatar. She tells Maryam A. Al-Subaiey why she believes in being different.

Behind the Debate

The seventh series of The Doha Debates has come to a successful wrap, and Series Producer, Tanya Sakzewski is busy preparing for the next. She shares with Cassey Oliveira all that goes into making a debate.

50 Filial fix

Sleep like a baby?

Dr Rajka Milanovic Galbraith shares her top tips to get your child to sleep, and be well-rested.

56 style stop

There is something radically different about teaching and practicing in a class that “only has women” in it and a class for “ladies only” – a difference that Valerie Jeremijenko is now beginning to appreciate.

VOLUME VI / ISSUE 08

sEPTEMBER 2011 Publisher & Editor-in-Chief Yousuf Jassem Al Darwish Chief Executive Sandeep Sehgal Executive Vice President Alpana Roy Vice President Ravi Raman

Managing Editor Vani Saraswathi Deputy Editor Sindhu Nair fashion & lifestyle correspondent Orna Ballout Editorial Co-ordinator Cassey Oliveira correspondent Ezdhar Ali

Art Director Venkat Reddy Asst Director – production Sujith Heenatigala assistant Art Director Hanan Abu Saiam Senior Graphic Designers Ayush Indrajith Sampath Gunathilaka M D Graphic Designer Maheshwar Reddy B photography Robert Altamirano

Managers – Marketing Mohammed Sami Zulfikar Jiffry Senior Media Consultant Chaturka Karandana Media Consultant HASSAN REKKAB

Marketing research & support executive amjeth ali

Accountant Pratap Chandran

sr. distribution Executive Bikram Shrestha Distribution Support Arjun Timilsina Bhimal rai

Published by Oryx Advertising Co WLL P.O. Box 3272; Doha-Qatar Tel: (+974) 44672139, 44550983, 44671173, 44667584 Fax: (+974) 44550982 Email: wtoday@omsqatar.com website: www.omsqatar.com Copyright © 2011 Oryx Advertising Co WLL

Address all your correspondence to Woman Today, Oryx Advertising Co WLL, P.O. Box 3272; Doha-Qatar Tel: (+974) 44672139, 44550983, 44671173, Fax:(+974) 44550982, email: wtoday@omsqatar.com. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced without the written permission of the publisher. The publisher does not accept responsibility for advertising contents. Licensing/ Republishing WT content: To obtain permission for text syndication in books, newsletters, magazines, newspapers and web or to use images/pictures carried in Woman Today, please contact our syndication and licensing department on the numbers given above. Permission is also required to photocopy a WT article for classroom use, course packs, business or general use. Custom reprints: Published article/s to be used as stand-alone pieces can be reprinted by us on special request. The reprint cost is based on the length of the article and the quantity ordered. Contact our custom publishing division on the numbers given above for more information.To subscribe to Woman Today call our subscription department on the numbers given above.

September 2011

FROM THE EDITOR

Last month, I received an interesting auto-reply from one of our writers: Remember when vacations didn’t have Internet access? That’s my vacation this summer. However, she did respond to a couple of our urgent queries, though the last line of her responder was: In case of an emergency: call an ambulance. It brought a smile to my face, as I planned my vacation. Are we truly capable of switching off if we are normally connected 24x7? Despite a conscious attempt, I haven’t been able to stay away from the internet for more than 48 hours at a stretch though my absolutely unconnected week is yet to come. I guess this is the case with most addictions. At the beginning you don t think you are addicted. You use the net, because it s available. Then after the first few hours, or days, you wonder: what’s the big deal about one quick mail check? One peek into the twitter feed or facebook statuses. Before you know it, you are off the wagon. How many of us do remember vacations without internet access? I do. Very fondly, even. Just that, I don’t care to have one now. Though in my defence, I must say I’ve stayed away from the BlackBerry mania. A colleague who is reviewing BB is in that dangerous zone before he becomes an addict. I sincerely hope he is able to get out in time and go back to the good ol’ days of broadband connection at home/ work, and a simple mobile handset at other times. But I am afraid he maybe a goner! Hope you ve managed to laze and relax without the worry of wi-fi and BBM. At least for a day or two. Have a great Eid break and then, welcome back to the grind, ladies!

Vani Saraswathi

GO GREEN

letters Food for thought

Nokia C5-03

Woman Today invites readers’ feedback

Don’t we all live to eat? At least I do! So you could imagine my delight when I picked up a copy of the summer issue of Woman Today. Loads of fun stuff to read – from the diet debacles, food myths to eating etiquettes and foods that determine your mood. Even the photo-spread was quite interesting, capturing tender moments of people and food. Please continue publishing such yummy issues!

Kimberley Fields Biker Babes

Share your views on the magazine or any issue connected to Qatar. One lucky reader will win a Nokia C5-03. Write to: The Editor, Woman Today, PO Box 3272, Doha Fax: (+974) 44550982 email: wtoday@omsqatar.com

I stay in Wakrah so I get to see the Harley-Davidson showroom daily on my way back home but never knew how it was to be a Harley rider. The interview with the three Ladies of Harley in Woman Today provided a very interesting insight on the Harley lifestyle. It is nice to see women riding motorcycles instead of sitting pillion and these ladies seemed headstrong, independent and confident.

Laila Khalid

Woman Today reserves the right to edit correspondence. Views and opinions expressed in the published letters may not necessarily be those of the publication. Prizes sponsored by:

September 2011

Special needs The summer issue of Woman Today featured a heart-warming article on families coping with specially challenged children. It’s good that there are several learning centres that cater to such children, but at the same time it’s appalling to know that expats face a hard time as many of these centres teach in Ara-

bic. I know of a few families who face similar constraints. I do hope that the Government reaches out to the needs of these families and opens up institutions that serve children of all nationalities.

Meena Pandey Feast your eyes I have always loved how Woman Today comes up with interesting themes that comprise a bunch of well-written and informative articles put together. The Food Fetish issue was simply amazing. I enjoyed the eating etiquettes and diet debacles in particular. I am always confused by the assortment of silverware beside my plate, glad you included those tips. Also the information on Iftar meals at various hotels was useful.

Shazeen Ahmed Superhero I enjoyed reading the article by Nofe Al-Suwaidi in the latest issue of Woman Today. Not just Arabs, I believe women in many countries don’t have the privilege to be the superhero they wish to be. However modern we try portraying ourselves, we are surrounded by certain societal limitations that don’t let us do things we really wish to do. I hope that Nofe’s article inspires parents to let their daughters think out of the box.

Huda Kallad

Measurements: Down 4.5 cms and a total of 55.5cms

Weight: Down a total of 10.9kgs

Transform, Tigers and Thailand... Alyson writes of her successful detox treatment at The Spa Resort and the many other thrills that the retreat had to offer...

September 2011

Body Fat: Down 0.3% and a total of 3.7% he day that I had been waiting in anticipation for what seemed like forever had finally arrived – I was on my way to The Spa Resort in Chiang Mai, Thailand, for detox as part of my Transform. While checking in, I bumped into Layla, another client of Nicole’s from the Art of Abundant Living. I was glad to have a companion to go through the whole detox experience with for the first time. Nicole presented us with our Spa Detox Workbooks (sounds like work but that workbook became my constant companion during the detox where I wrote down my daily thoughts and progress). After an incredibly long flight, we landed in Chiang Mai late in the evening to be greeted by a driver and a smiling lady from the resort.

Doc talk Although we arrived at the resort close to midnight, we were given a very warm welcome by the staff and shown to our rooms which were tastefully furnished. The next morning we met at the resort’s restaurant which is built out of teak, giving the feeling that you are in a luxurious tree house. The food was delicious; I had a fruit salad platter – my first venture into proper raw food cuisine (okay I am not that adventurous). After two days of eating only raw food, we could start our detox. Our first appointment with the Doctor was to discuss the detox and the various options that The Spa Resort offered. While waiting at the reception, we could hear somebody singing. He was a very young man with a beautiful voice. You could imagine our surprise when this young man (who did not look a day older than 21) introduced himself as the Doctor! Judging by the disbelief on our faces, he quickly went on to explain his qualifications. He also told us he was 35 years of age and put his youthful appearance down to his raw food diet. He then proceeded to explain the Detox process that involved the use of colemas – he was really very funny which helped us to loosen up a bit.

Detox begins The detox process involved five detox drinks per day, made of pineapple juice, psyllium and bentonite clay, to be drank very quickly followed by plenty of water. An hour and half after the detox drink, we had to have six capsules of vitamins and minerals, all designed to help with the detox process. In addition, we also had some optional extras such as carrot juice (not my favourite), spa veggie broth and coconut water. I really thought I would be starving, but I was never hungry, although I did miss chewing food. The highlight of the detox was, of course, the colemas, which we had twice a day. Though not my favourite part of the detox, I knew they were good for me and were an important part. We would then have an Ampuku massage – an ancient Japanese massage lasting 30 minutes. It’s best to have this massage before the colema, the idea being that massaging the abdomen helps with the elimination process. The only detox symptom I had was a slight headache which disappeared as soon as I did the colema. By lunchtime, I would be a little tired thanks to a 30 minute walk and then 90 minutes of yoga, but the tiredness was quickly sorted out by an afternoon nap or a massage. The female therapists are extremely well trained and professional; I could have had a massage every day, but I didn’t want to spoil myself. The yoga was taught by two amazing instructors. Faeng was a wonderful woman and probably the smallest person I have ever seen, but she was so full of energy and wisdom and I loved her classes. Lek took the classes on the weekends and his were definitely more vigorous; we really sweated during his classes. No matter how challenging the yoga was, we were always stimulated by the breathtaking view of the mountainsides and valleys. The yoga sala is built into the side of a mountain and the sides are totally open. One day, while laying on our backs doing a relaxation exercise, we saw this beautiful bright green snake moving about in the thatch roof; needless to say, the relaxation techniques were no longer our main concern

for the rest of the session. However it was wonderful to feel so close to nature. Our early morning walks were also a great time to be at one with nature (we saw scorpions squashed on the road) and interacted with the locals, who were so warm and friendly. After 14 colemas and countless detox drinks and capsules, Nicole and I successfully completed our detox after which I had four days to sample the fantastic raw food that the resort’s Radiance Restaurant had to offer. It was good to eat ‘food’ again. I started slowly sampling the delicious raw food dishes, gradually introducing my body to food again. Nicole, her husband Wessel and myself had a raw food cooking class with the chef from the restaurant. We each prepared a starter, main course, dessert and a smoothie. I loved my mango banana smoothie! I will definitely be using the recipes at home.

Exploring the city There are endless tourist opportunities in Chiang Mai, but I couldn’t experience many because my main focus was the detox. However, I could not pass up the opportunity to visit The Tiger Kingdom. I am passionate about ti-

2011 September

Measurements: Down 4.5 cms and a total of 55.5cms

Weight: Down a total of 10.9kgs gers and have always wanted to get close and personal with them, and it was worth the experience. I was able to cuddle the tiger cubs and even gently, and nervously I might add, stroke the larger ones (the oldest being 17 months), mindful that with one swipe of their giant paws they could inflict some very serious damage. Another activity we took part in was “Flying with the Gibbons”, which involved climbing up high onto the tree tops of the jungle and zipping along zip lines in the tree tops; WOW what a rush! I cannot wait to take my boys to Thailand and share this expe-

rience with them. Of course we had to do what all women love to do – go shopping! The markets of Chiang Mai are huge and have so much to offer that you could spend days walking around. I could not believe how inexpensive things were and the shop keepers were always eager to bargain. I was very fortunate to meet Guy, Founder of The Spa Resorts. What a wonderful man; soft-spoken and gentle in manner. He was so encouraging about my transform journey; I could not thank him enough for the wonder-

ful opportunity he gave me. I returned home not with just great weight loss results from the detox, but also feeling more relaxed and clear-headed. I continue to remain focused and it’s great to see peoples’ reactions when they see me, they cannot believe the change. Since we were moving house again, I cleaned out my wardrobe. I realised that I am no longer wearing a size 22, I now fit in a 16! I have to constantly pull my pants up as they keep falling down. I am feeling absolutely terrific as I continue shrinking and transforming...

Following Alyson

... As she shares her personal journey on her Wordpress and Twitter

July 28, 2011:

August 10, 2011

ON Twitter

Fantastic Results After Retreat

Wardrobe clean out!

#@AALNicole #wttransform@Womantoday

I had my weigh in with Curves and I am over

With moving I was faced with “THE BOX”,

1st day at retreat- pre cleanse has started. Beau-

the moon over my results! I did not quite

you know that box that most of us have, the

tiful scenery. Pre-cleanse now 2 days, cleansing

make the 85kg goal I had made for myself but

one that is filled with the clothes that we will

on Fri

I got close and the bonus is that I am feeling a

‘one day’ fit into. I started slowly pulling on a

million dollars. I have no bloating which is a

favourite skirt that has not fitted me in about 4

#@AALNicole #wttransform@womantoday

first in a very long time, my clothes are falling

years. I closed my eyes breathed in and pulled

day started with bad headache, tired but feel bet-

off me much to my delight.

the zip up and it went up with ease, IT FIT-

ter after colema cleanse, massage and steam.

TED ME!! WOW! As I worked through the box July 29, 2011

most of the items fitted me - but what I found

#@AALNicole #wttransform@womanto-

Post Retreat Photo Session

more amazing was how my taste had changed.

day just had my first meal in 7 days veggies &

When Rob the photographer for Woman To-

Things I once loved no longer appealed to me

fruit. felt great to chew. feel great v energised &

day contacted me to organise a shoot I felt

and went into the throw out pile.

healthy.

many dress so Craig (my 9 year old son) and

August 14, 2011

#@AALNicole #wttransform@Woman-

I went shopping! Craig and I eventually found

Hit a plateau

Today love it when friend last seen 2 mths ago

a beautiful emerald green dress that was a

I have come to the realisation that I have hit

notices weight loss and #transformation.

size 16!!!! Can you believe it I am down from

a plateau as far as my weight loss goes. Now

a 22 now in a 16. Instant ego and motivational

what to do? I am going to increase my exer-

@AALNicole #wttransform@WomanToday

boost, I felt like I was floating on air!! I am def-

cise. I am going to go through my eating plan

Raw food baking with Nicole made Strawberry

initely feeling so much better about having

and make sure that I am sticking to my six

tarts delicious dessert healthy too. Yum

photo’s taken now that I am slimming down

small meals a day. I am also going to check

and by the time of my reveal I will be super

my quantities. Drink water, water and chew,

confident!

chew. I will have to be patient and focussed on

the normal sense of dread. Well I don’t own

my goals.

Mobile partners :

September 2011

Follow her on: wttransform.wordpress.com wttransform

fitness

wardrobe

beauty & spa

wellbeing

support partner

partners

Body Fat: Down 0.3% and a total of 3.7%

Coaching Updates Session 7: Our world is full of noise, distractions, toxins, responsibilities and stress. There never seems to be enough time to just stop and breathe. However taking time out can have a powerful effect on our health and well-being as Alyson discovered when we spent two weeks at The Spa Resort. Having time to review her life, to quieten her mind, connect with nature, cleanse her body and of course have fun, helped Alyson to rejuvenate to a much deeper level. Alyson also lost weight and glowed. I chose The Spa Resorts as they were one of the first detox resorts in Thailand. They have nearly 20 years of experience with their first retreat opening in 1992. They have four spa retreats around Thailand but we chose Chiang Mai for our Transformation. The resorts offer all the facilities and health activities that are required to conduct a successful detox, the service is excellent, the food exceptional and there are price packages to suit a range of budgets.

Having completed the detox treatment with Alyson, Coach Nicole explains the important health reasons behind each of the different activities at the retreat.

RAW & ORGANIC FOOD

It was essential as part of Alyson’s detox that before and after her cleansing fast

Nicole and Alyson with Guy, Founder of The Spa Resorts

she consume as much nutritionally-dense organic uncooked and unprocessed foods and drinks as possible. Years of consuming processed and cooked foods leads to a back up of toxins in the body that disrupts the body’s delicate acid/alkaline balance, a major cause of excess weight and disease. Heating food above 118 degrees F causes the chemical changes that create acidic toxins, including the carcinogens, mutagens and free-radicals associated with diseases like diabetes, arthritis, heart disease and cancer. Cooking also destroys the live enzymes that aid in digestion and health. At The Spa Resort, Alyson enjoyed eating from an extensive gourmet raw foods menu made from local organic produce. The resorts also have their own organic gardens, free of pesticides, herbicides, fungicides and GMOs, and where the plants are nourished with organic fertilisers. Alyson was able to explore the gardens and pick fresh produce for the kitchen. Attending raw food cooking classes with the resorts’ chef was great fun, and gave Alyson kitchen skills to keep her health journey moving forward on her return home.

Fasting and cleansing Everyone is at risk of toxic stress in today’s world – our bodies naturally create toxins internally as a by-product of metabolism. Add stress, contaminants in our food and water, poor exercise habits and exposure to pollutants. After a detox, the metabolism becomes more efficient at generating energy and eliminating wastes and you will be rewarded with feeling and looking healthier. The following are symptoms that your body’s detoxification systems aren’t functioning as they should: Premature ageing “brain fog”, poor memory and concentra-

THE SPA RESORT, CHIANG MAI Visit: http://www.thesparesorts.net/ spa-chiang-mai.php Email: info@thespachiangmai.com

2011 September

Measurements: Down 4.5 cms and a total of 55.5cms

Weight: Down a total of 10.9kgs

sages, facials, sauna and spa treatments, colon hydrotherapy and journaling – all designed to support Alyson’s body and mind to cleanse and rejuvenate.

tion, headaches, migraines High blood pressure, fluid retention, palpitations A white-coated tongue, bad breath, indigestion, bloating and flatulence, nausea, intolerance to fats and rich foods, candidiasis, constipation/diarrhea, pale stools, stools that float Mood swings, irritability, depression, anxiety, panic attacks Erratic blood sugar levels leading to hypoglycemia, causing sugar cravings, mood swings and energy drop Easy weight gain, difficulty losing weight, fatigue, ME (chronic fatigue syndrome) symptoms, unusual body heat or flushing Gallstones, inflamed gallbladder, pain over the right upper abdomen Rheumatism and arthritis, fibromyalgia Rhinitis and hay fever Hives, eczema, dermatitis, grey shadows under the eyes Alyson also completed the seven day detox fasting programme called “You changed my life”. For a week, Alyson drank detox supplements and herbs, specialised cleansing drinks, broths and raw organic juices. She also had daily morning walks in nature, attended yoga, meditation and raw food classes, enjoyed cleansing mas-

September 2011

Benefits of the fasting and cleansing programme Rid your body of toxins Gives cells an opportunity to cleanse, heal and rejuvenate Increase your energy levels Let go of old, unhealthy habits, explore new foods Enjoy weight loss without dieting and lower high blood pressure Clean and replenish your colon Bring clarity to mind and spirit Improve the quality of sleep, stabilise moods and overcome food addictions

YOGA Daily yoga formed part of Alyson’s retreat to encourage her body to relax, breathe, stretch and strengthen and to allow her body and mind to release stress and stored toxins. Top 10 benefits of a regular yoga practice: Stress relief Pain relief Better breathing Flexibility Increased strength Weight management Improved circulation Cardiovascular conditioning Focus on the present Inner peace

MEDITATION Living in a hectic, noisy world, our bodies and minds are constantly in a state of activity and often stress. A regular meditation practice can have amazing psychological, physiological and spiritual benefits by

calming the mind, balancing our biological systems and strengthening our body mind connection. At The Spa Resort, Alyson started her day with a guided meditation class at the stunningly beautiful and very peaceful Cloud Nine yoga sala. Alyson was also guided through a full day of silence – a whole 24 hours with not a word spoken. That included no TV, radio, internet, reading or speaking. A time to quieten the mind, slow down and gently focus inwards.

Natural fun! Living in the modern world, surrounded by the concrete jungle of big cities and fast-paced life, we can often forget the magic of the natural world around us. Having time to reconnect with the other creatures on this planet can help us to put our needs and wants into a different perspective. Alyson had up close and per-

Body Fat: Down 0.3% and a total of 3.7% sonal encounters during the daily morning nature walks, on an exhilarating zip line ride through the jungle canopy with wild gibbons and during a magical few hours spent with tigers and their cubs. These experiences helped reawaken Alyson’s love for the natural world, while having fun was great for releasing her stress, tension and toxins.

Re-Treat Yourself Alyson’s experience at The Spa Resort, Chiang Mai was a healing and rejuvenating experience, the benefits of which Alyson will continue to receive for a long time after she returns to her normal life and as she moves forward with her healthy lifestyle changes. In time Alyson will benefit from returning to a detox retreat to deepen the healing of her body and mind. In the meantime she can do regular mini-retreats at home to boost her health and sense of wellbeing.

Health Journeys are what Nicole specialises in. It's a holistic approach to wellness that empowers and transforms lives in a way that is individual and sustainable. Nicole created WT Transform to inspire everyone with the "I can do it" attitude to health and wellbeing, and to showcase a holistic approach to creating your best life. Along with Transform, Nicole has created More Raw – a facebook group that is guiding participants through detox and cleansing, and also regularly takes individuals and groups to detoxing retreats in exotic locations worldwide. Nicole van Hattem is Founder and Wellness Director of Art of Abundant Living, which specialises in individual health coaching, corporate wellness programs, health products and retreats. Find out more at www.artofabundantliving.com, join Art of Abundant Living on Facebook or follow Nicole on twitter @AALNicole and LinkedIn Nicole transformed her own life and as a result her body transformed too. To read her story and view the before and after pictures, please visit www. artofabundantliving.com -Success Stories.

Not just beauty

nation, anti-aging and purification. On the final day, dados is planning a make-over for Alyson which includes everything from hair to nails to make-up.

With the Woman Today Transform almost Why transform? coming to a wrap, Heba M Al-Okar, Founder Heba remembers Alyson walking into daof dados beauty, tells Woman Today why dos for the first time as a shy woman who held herself back. Over the months, Alyson she chose to become the beauty partner has now grown into a much more confident of this project. person. “We want Alyson to continue her A quirky, candy-floss-like decor with ‘pink’ written all over – dados beauty may seem like the perfect place you would want to visit to get all dolled up. But it’s not just beauty that the salon insists on. “It’s also the mind, body and soul that we would like to touch,” says Heba. “Through dados, we are trying to give back to the community; hence we started an initiative called ‘Beauty with a Conscience’ where QR2 from every treatment is donated to Reach Out to Asia (ROTA).” Partnering with the Woman Today Transform has helped the salon further expand its initiative. “What attracted us to this project is that unlike most other projects that focus solely on weight loss or makeover, WT Transform touches upon the emotional, mental, as well as physical aspects of Alyson. It attempts to bring an overall change in her personality. We are proud to be a part of this project.” As beauty partners, dados is pampering Alyson with some very relaxing treatments. There are the mesotherapy and cellulite treatments, both of which increase the breakdown of toxins and cellulite and improve circulation. Then there are the Hammam treatments and facials that Alyson can avail of. The first facial is a pure oxygen driven facial which makes the skin breathe. The second, Nu Skin facial, will involve rejuve-

journey of transformation even after this project ends. It is also great that she is sharing her story with others, and that people are following her on social media sites.” “Like every other mother, Alyson is so busy taking care of everybody else that she has forgotten herself. She needs somebody to take care of her, to pamper her and compliment her. “In fact, every person needs to be pampered”, she continues. “Psychologists often speak about the power of touch – how a comforting touch can give you confidence. For instance, even if you fix just your eyebrows, you already feel fresh and beautiful. In biological terms, it’s the endorphins or the ‘happy hormones’ that get released when you do any treatment. “Maybe you don’t have the time to indulge in beauty sessions, but you could always ask a family member or friend to give you a massage. Or if budget is an issue, then dados offers cost effective treatments. We tailor-make all treatment packages to suit each individual’s needs. Where there is a will, there is a way.” Heba also mentions how she too had transformed into a more patient person. “Learn from your experiences. Be surrounded by positivity always. You need to transform into a better person both from inside and outside,” she says. As for Alyson, “dados will always be there for her,” she assures.

2011 September

women

worldwide

photography: Robert Altamirano

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Market yourself. Grab the limelight.â&#x20AC;?

Qatari businesswoman Buthaina Al-Ansari is not in the habit of mincing her words. In an interview with Vani Saraswathi she encourages women to get out of their homes and seek solutions to their problems instead of whining their days away.

September 2011

am from the Sheikha Moza generation, so don’t ask me gender-stereotypical questions,” Buthaina AlAnsari smiles. Holding a senior position in one of the largest private corporations in the country, Buthaina is better known for her business interests – the Qatariat T&D Holding Company that undertakes training and development for women and also publishes an Arabic businesswomen’s magazine, Qatariat. She was recently featured on a list of 100 most powerful Arab women. While stereotypes are of no relevance to her personally, she does understand why many women still face resistance as they aspire to embrace their true potential. “We want to change traditional behaviour patterns: get a degree, get a government job and get married. The new generation-the Sheikha Moza generation – have to utilise the opportunities given to us, literally on a golden plate. Without her, we would have received no support.” For someone unfamiliar with Qatar, this may seem to border on sycophancy. But if you have lived here long enough, and seen the strides women have made in the last decade, you will realise that what Buthaina states is the simple truth. She says of the woman who is a role model to her and thousands of her peers: “She (Sheikha Moza) thinks and acts globally, but we lack that from others here. There are some who give us a lot of support. But that depends on the person’s education, background, nationality and loyalty to the country.”

Needed: Mentors She accepts that local endeavours may not be up to international standards, but there has to be a starting point, and there has to be support to develop us. “When I didn’t get that, I looked within, to explore what my weakness was.” Which revealed the lack of mentors. “I need someone to guide and teach me. If you only support the well established, and the giants

support each other, what happens to the rest of us? The small and medium enterprises get left behind; we are forced to take on competition in a different league. We don’t have the wherewithal for that. We need their support and trust. The larger corporations need to back us up.”

A lagging generation “I would like to highlight and speak for the middle generation. This generation needs to put in triple the effort to succeed compared with the rest. The younger generation on the other hand, those 16 and below, they have everything: education, linguistic skills, technoawareness,” says Buthaina. “But those born in the 70s, they need to work very hard on themselves, to align with the economic development happening now.” What Buthaina aims to achieve through her training company is just that. To develop these women who grew up on the cusp. “I want to give them more exposure to the community, to get them up to speed, to shed the old abaya, and don the new. Because you have to reshape yourself to compete in the market.” Looking at the Qatar Foundation and the opportunities it extends, she compares it to what was on offer when she was growing up. “If you go back and review the curriculum we had to imbibe, you will realise how much of a challenge it is to be an achiever.” This is probably why women stagnate at the middle-management level and don’t push past that ceiling to be more prominent in higher management and on the boards of companies, she says. Having missed that boat, what that generation has to do is invest in themselves now, she points out. “I feel you should build by yourself. Then again, not everyone has the ability to do so and may require a bit of hand-holding. The government has initiatives to help get you on your feet financially. But beyond that, earning people’s trust and succeeding is up to you. “You, as an entrepreneur or a business owner, need to take responsibility to build your success story. Groom your walk, talk,

...shed the old abhaya, and don the new ...you have to reshape yourself to compete in the market.

Recipe for success “I keep enhancing my recipe with every new and empowering interaction,” says Buthaina. “I am aware that what is good for this year will not be for the next. And I have to change with the times. But the basic ingredients of my recipe are...” Dawn prayer Surrounding yourself with positive people Taking risks Education, education, education...

2011 September

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worldwide

invest in your education, in your reading and culture,” she says, while stressing the importance of believing in and using the media to market oneself. She is candid about doing that herself: “I market myself through workshops, conferences... We have to promote ourselves. There is no other choice. You have to squeeze yourself. Don’t wait for things to be handed to you on a platter – you’ll be stamped out if you do that. “No one will know of you if you choose to stay at home and away from the limelight.”

Improving lives In 2010, she represented Qatar at "A New Beginning: Presidential Summit on Entrepreneurship" in Washington D.C. A valuable lesson she learnt there is that entrepreneurship is not just about making money. “A speaker said ‘the meaning of entrepreneur is that you improve others lives, and that sentence really stuck in my mind. You innovate, you improve. I met so many women from across the world – Malaysia, India, Indonesia – who have faced incredible challenges to work for causes they believe in. “These women have been through such suffering and humiliation to improve the lives of others. My attempt to improve the lives of others has resulted in Takreem and Qatariat.”

Local power Identifying areas where Qataris can really make their mark, she says whatever other skills may be imported into the country, the

September 2011

value of local knowledge cannot be undermined. And that knowledge is the forte of the Qataris. But large corporations have a consultant fetish, she laughs. “What do the consultants do? They take information from us and make a presentation out of it. And they walk away with a million riyals in their pocket. “Take something as simple as the advertisements in the magazine and on the billboards. They have got the details wrong. Small things like the abaya and the thobe are depicted wrong. This is a big joke amongst us. “Alright, we probably won’t appear in the ads. But we can definitely give you the inputsconsultation – to get it right. Use our expertise to make your business grow.”

Scouting new talent On the lack of fresh faces and spokespersons, she says she is fed up of seeing the same faces, same ideas and same names everywhere. “There is no new value. No one is making an attempt to seek out new talent. You go to a workshop or conference, it’s all the same. Let us talk. There are so many of us with fresh ideas. “There is the tendency to call only the few known names for years now. There are others willing to step up and join the ranks and take this forward. Why not give them the chance?”

Off the board? On the issue of the lack of women in senior management, she bemoans the fact that even

About 65 of the SMEs are owned by women, why are they not represented (on the board of Enterprise Qatar)?

in Enterprise Qatar there are no women on the board. “How come you are enhancing SMEs and still have representation of women? Why isn’t Qatar Business Women Association (QBWA) not represented there? Not Aisha Alfardan, not Sheikha Al-Anood...about 65 of the SMEs are owned by women, why are they not represented? When I raised this, I was told ‘next time’ – am I a child? Are you trying to soothe me? “It’s not just Enterprise Qatar. Look at our cabinet. From two women ministers to none? There are women with qualifications and skills to take on this responsibility – women like me. I am not demanding blindly or out of a feeling of entitlement. I am working for it. I am preparing for it.” Buthaina says that all though other businesswomen share her frustration and anxiety they are unwilling to express themselves publicly. But that could well be because of the strong support she receives from her family. “I was always frank and outspoken. If you keep quiet you will never reach your goal. There is no harm in criticising, but do it professionally. Have your research done, your story ready, your references and evidence. Then it becomes constructive. That’s what I am doing. Then you get an outcome, a solution.” Buthaina’s husband, who is a petrochemical engineer with QP and also on the board of Qatariat, is one of her strongest allies. “My husband is the first guy who believed in me. Who pushed me to achieve. He is highly educated, and supported me financially and emotionally.” It’s that foundation of family support that she wishes to give her nine-year-old daughter. “She is stronger than me. Because I give her a chance to express her views, and argue, and speak up, without fear. I raised her like that.”

Qatar Skin Care Centre, Sport city, P. O. Box 3315 - Doha, Qatar Call: 00974-44119594, Mob: 66466136, Fax: 44353989, Email:qhcqatarc@qatar.net.qa

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atu r e: se lf -c ar ic herself es se d o how kholo

paint your dream

Kholood Al-Ali is a cartoonist at Aljazeera Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Channel. Her paintings are inspired by Japanese Manga comics â&#x20AC;&#x201C; a style considered unusual for a Qatari artist, a style that is hard to get accepted among the dominant traditional art community in Qatar. She believes in being different. It isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t surprising that one of her favourite artists is Kagaya, a Japanese digital artist who is known for painting elaborately detailed and spectacularly coloured images, or that she is highly addicted to Japanese anime comics, especially Rose of Versailles, Little Lulu and Chibi Maruko-chan. In conversation with Maryam A. Al-Subaiey...

September 2011

m a n ga : lood 's Dali m eets M anga com ics, Kho f. e o es ed n pa am Ja re r s sh e h as d th e popu la Inspired by s are gen er ally th ing pa inti ng

escribe your style of painting. Scary and dark. Originally my style was inspired by the Japanese manga comics; however, with time I tried to grow out of this to develop my own style. I haven’t found it yet, but I think I am on the right path. A style inspired by Japanese manga seems an unusual choice for a Qatari artist, don’t you think? I think many people are tired of the usual horse and falcon paintings which don’t represent the true essence of the artist. My paintings are a deep reflection of my emotions and thoughts. I think of a topic for a long time and sometimes I might paint it over and over again till I am satisfied. How did you develop your style? I always try to watch videos of the techniques that other artists apply, to learn from them. I also follow many art books, but practice is the best way to discover one’s style. Every painting is like a new adventure. What tools do you use for your art? I use PC Windows Vista and Mac, Photoshop, Copic Markers and the usual pen and pencil. Where do you find your inspiration? My biggest inspiration is my crazy dreams. Most of my paintings are things I have dreamed of. Another inspiration is YouTube

and art websites where I follow a few international artists. I also find inspiration in my friends and family.

topics. My style is not very much appreciated. Those who appreciate modern art are few, but I feel that there is a positive change.

Do you remember your first painting? My first canvas was at university during an oil painting class, and it was of a natural landscape. I don’t really consider it my first painting because it was something I was assigned to do and it didn’t represent me. So my first real painting was only after graduation – a beautiful fairy looking through a window.

As an artist, what change would you like to see in your country? I would love to see modern art all over the city alongside traditional art.

What do you think of the art community in Doha? The art community in Doha is divided into two sections. There are older artists who still perform art the same way they did since the 80s and who still hold on tight to their classical opinions. Then there are the younger artists who thrive on modern art and its different forms but can’t find a place for themselves in the country’s art scene. Some have made it, but many are still unknown because they don’t know how to market themselves. Do you think you have received enough of the support that an artist needs? My biggest support is from my family and friends. Sadly, there is almost no support from society or even the art community in Qatar, because it is dominated by ‘big’ names. Also, the locals still prefer traditional or classical

Any projects that are keeping you busy? I have had several exhibitions in Doha and Abu Dhabi, some of my own and some with my friend Fatima. Currently, Fatima and I are working on comics and we are looking for an animator to turn our stories into cartoons. There are also some ideas for books that I would like to publish in the near future. Does your job as a cartoonist hinder your talent? The problem with working for a TV channel is that you enter the production phase of the work rather than the creative one. You sometimes end up working like machines; however, we have presented a new idea for work and we hope to receive the necessary support. What would you advise aspiring artists in Doha? Try to avoid traditional topics – find your own style. Learn from other artists and most importantly – practice

2011 September

women

Photography: Adrian Haddad

worldwide

Behind

the Debate Discussing the Arab Spring, travelling to some of the countries in turmoil, gathering local opinion – it has been one exciting series for Tanya Sakzewski, Series Producer of The Doha Debates. The seventh series has come to a successful wrap, and Tanya is busy preparing for the next. She shares with Cassey Oliveira all that goes into making a debate.

he stage is set: It is the last episode to be aired of the seventh series of The Doha Debates – a highly popular programme that is aired on the BBC. The topic: ‘This House believes resistance to the Arab Spring is futile.’ The atmosphere in the studio is charged – the four speakers and the audience are all fired up. Meanwhile, back in the Outside Broadcasting (OB) van, Tanya and her team carefully monitor the debate, talking to host Tim Sebastian through the earpiece and watching the screen. “However composed and focused we need to be during the show, I am always a little nervous as I really want to have a successful show,” says Tanya. The show concludes, but her work has just

September 2011

begun. “We have to internally review the show, and the following day we start editing the debate for broadcast. We end up watching it over and over again in the edit to see things again with a fresh perspective.” The series couldn’t have concluded any better, feels Tanya. “It was important to tackle the Arab Spring and look at government reactions to the protests and demands. We had speakers coming from diverse backgrounds – an Omani, a Lebanese human rights activist, a Moroccan and an expert on the region afrom the UK. As always, there were a lot of questions from the audience,” she says with satisfaction. Tanya had been the show’s Producer for four years before turning Series Producer in the

sixth series. It’s a hectic job: meeting deadlines, researching topics, finding new speakers. “No job is easy,” she says. “The first challenge is to get a good debate every month. The second challenge is to find time for networking, which is critical for our job. The third challenge is to continue being creative, coming up with new ideas that can add value to our work.” With a bucketload of work, doesn’t she lose her cool? “Working with a good team helps. If people were not so good with their jobs, it would have been difficult. “Also, it is necessary to find something to do outside work – hitting the gym, meeting up with friends, watching a movie. I like exercising but I need to be motivated.”

Who make better speakers, Men or Women?

What makes a good debate?

A motion that is informative, engaging and topically relevant. An audience that participates by asking questions. A panel of speakers who are passionate about the issue and appeal to the audience with their clear and concise points.

“It depends on an individual’s skills. We have had some phenomenal women debaters who have swayed audiences to vote for them in the past. Why? Because they are passionate; they know their subject well; they can get their views across clearly; and the audience can relate to them and vice versa. But these skills are in men too.” photography: Jonathan Le Merchand

The media bug bites Prior to The Doha Debates, Tanya was a television news reporter in her home country, Australia. “It was nice being on the road, looking for stories, then rushing back to write and edit them. Sometimes I was sent to report sports stories, which isn’t my specialty. But it was fun.” When she moved to London, she realised it was unusual to have foreign accents, such as an Australian one, on television. She opted for a producer’s job instead with the BBC’s Hardtalk programme, which was at that time hosted by Tim Sebastian. It was then that her Doha Debates journey began. For the past 21 years Tanya has worked exclusively for television – moving from reporting to producing. “Both jobs demand similar skills, only earlier I worked in front of the camera and now I work behind it. “I always wanted to enter the field of communications. When I was pursuing my BA in journalism, I realised I enjoyed broadcast journalism. Once you start it's hard to stop.”

Scaling new heights Since 2004, when it was launched, Doha Debates has changed gradually – from the look and feel to accommodate the new logo to the format that now gives the audience sufficient time to participate. What hasn’t changed is the intent: freedom of speech. “We have editorial independence; there is no veto or approval regarding the topics or the speakers we invite. Since we are a forum for free speech, we need to exercise it ourselves. The audience is free to ask whatever they want and so are the speakers. We don’t censor anything, we only edit the show to highlight the best,” says Tanya. She adds, “We have expanded our audience base in the past two years. Our broadcast-

ers have increased in different countries. We are now available to a non-English-speaking audience as well.” The show has also been honoured with three “Insight Awards” by the California-based National Association of Film and Digital Media Artists last year. “Every achievement is the team’s achievement. You single-handedly can’t achieve anything without a great team. Ours is a small

Quicktakes The last show I watched on TV: Damages I find peace when: I am with friends or family If not media, I would have been in: Arts I love: Travelling My strength: Dedication and hard work My weakness: Can’t switch off from work Role model: I don’t follow role models, I follow my dreams I never leave my house without: My mobile My bag always has: Sunglasses, pen and paper I like dressing: Casual A word that describes me best: We would need to debate on that!

team, but a highly dynamic and dedicated one. Everyone has different roles, but we all work together to make one final product.” She continues, “This year we took the show to Tunis and Cairo, where the uprisings were. Being a platform for free speech and debate in the region, it is important to be out in these countries and debate their key issues.” Initially, Tanya was sceptical about Tunis. For one thing, there was no agreement with the universities to send in their students as audience. Secondly, English is not spoken by many. “We were hoping for at least 100 students to turn up, but 250 did. They finally got an opportunity to speak out in public and ask questions, and they didn’t want to miss that. They were highly energised and engaged – the motion for that debate was: ‘This House believes that Arab revolutions will just produce different dictators.’ – it was amazing.” Students have always made up a crucial faction of the show’s audience. When asked why they attended the debates, the overwhelming response from them was ‘to learn something.’ “Debates illuminate opposing arguments to an issue. When people challenge and refute their opponents’ views, the issue is understood better,” Tanya says. After seven series and over 40 episodes, Tanya is in a fix when asked to choose her favourite. “There are so many,” she says. But she mentions the award-winning ‘Hamas meets Fatah’ special event and another on ‘Women should be free to marry anyone they choose’. “The audience response to the debate, the diversity of opinions, was fascinating.” Wait, does Tanya see herself on the panel? “I am the producer, I work behind the scenes. I am so accustomed to organising debates, I don’t know if I would participate in one,” she laughs

2011 September

Reinventing the wheel? Nah! just test driving it... Next time someone passes a sexist comment about women and wheels, your repartee need be just two words. Mary Anderson. She invented the first windshield wiper in 1902, after riding a New York City Street car. Her invention was patented in 1905. Before that, a mixture of onions and carrots on windshields was used to repel water. We all know there is a thriving comedy industry that depends solely on deriding women drivers. Yes, we probably pay extra attention to the colour of our car, the feel of the upholstery, and are extremely particular about a well-lit vanity mirror near the dash... but isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t that what the whole auto experience is about â&#x20AC;&#x201C; catering to the needs and moods of the driver? Our car is probably the only haven most of us have, our exclusive space, and it has to fit our moods and tastes. This month Team Woman Today takes a few cars for a spin, and we talk about everything we need to know about being on the road and in control.

2011 September

CARCRAZE

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Mercedes GLK

Reviewed by: Sindhu Nair

What’s your Dravatar? A ‘sensible’ career woman What we like best: Handling. Nothing can beat this car’s impressive ride. Though not the fastest, the solid safe feel along with the ease of drive, especially when you glide through the roundabouts, this car gives is unbeatable. Could do with: Luxurious interiors and looks. Unlike other luxury models, GLK makes no attempt at frills. Traffic vibes: The exterior is bland and ‘squarish’ for my senses but again the Brand value being high; the GLK gets you a look or two. Colour choice: White Music Mood: Country Music Review: The Mercedez GLK has a 3.5-litre V6, which turns out 268 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, with sevenspeed transmission and a manual shift mode. This is not a speed machine, so don’t expect much speed just smooth competence. The all-wheel system is rear-biased, splitting the torque 45/55. The space inside is enough, just barely so. Safety features are quite high so I would term it as a practical buy with more points for the engine and the brand than for anything else. Price: Starting from QR175,000

September 2011

terms for

dummies

Car lingo can be petrifying at times, especially when you arrive at a showroom to buy your dream car only to be greeted by the know-it-all salesman. Dodge the ‘blank look’ the next time you go car-buying with Woman Today’s mini-glossary of car terms.

1 Anti-lock braking system

(ABS): A system that allows the wheels on a motor vehicle to continue rolling with grip (traction) on the road surface while sudden braking to prevent skidding.

Coupe: A car body style with a fixed roof unlike a convertible.

3 Crossover:

A vehicle designed with a combination of features from a sports utility vehicle (SUV) and a station wagon.

Drive train: A group of components that generate power in a vehicle.

5 Four-wheel drive (4X4):

A vehicle with a drive train that allows all four wheels to receive torque from the engine simultaneously. These cars are capable of travelling on off road terrains.

6 Gears:

The machine that produces torque to set the vehicle in motion. Vehicles have five gears in total; higher the speed, the higher the gear.

air to enter the passenger compartment. They may be manually operated or motor driven.

12 Paddle shifters:

In some automatic vehicles, gear changes could be made by flipping small levers located behind the steering wheel instead of the centre console. This allows the driver to change gears without taking their hands off the wheel.

Parking Assist System: Through an in-dash screen and button controls, the car can steer itself into a parking space with little input from the driver.

14 Rev:

To increase the speed of the engine

15 Sedan:

The most common car body style that has a cargo area completely sealed from the passenger compartment.

Station Wagon: A variation of a sedan car with its roof extended rearward over a shared passenger/ cargo compartment with access at the back via a lift gate instead of a trunk lid.

7 Hatchback:

17 SUV:

8 Hill-start assist:

18 Torque:

Similar to a station-wagon but with a smaller cargo compartment. A system that prevents your vehicle from rolling backwards on a slope.

9 Horsepower:

Measurement of an engine’s output (or power).

10 Hybrid:

A hybrid vehicle uses two or more distinct power sources such as electricity or solar energy along with fuel .

11 Moonroof (or sunroof): A fixed or operable opening in an automobile roof which allows light and/or

A vehicle similar to a station wagon, but with a framework of a light-truck. It can carry more load. The force that creates the horsepower.

19 Turbocharger:

A device that injects compressed air into the engine cylinder which further allows more fuel to be injected into it. This boosts the engine’s horsepower.

V (Vee) engine: When engine cylinders are aligned at an angle in two separate columns, they appear to be in a “V”. According to the number of cylinders attached, there are V4, V5, V6, V8, etc engines.

2011 September

CARCRAZE

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Audi A1

Reviewed by: Orna Ballout

What’s your dravatar? City Slicker What we like best: Automatic Engine Start button Could do with: More vibrant interior design Traffic vibes: The red hue ensures all eyes on you! Music mood: Pop Colour choice: Red Word best describes it: Cute Review: The smallest car to come from the Audi family is by far the cutest and trendiest model. A test drive in Doha visiting the city’s landmarks was a good way to put it through its paces as the car was purposely built for city use. The 120bhp 1.4 turbo engine does 0-100kmph in 8.9 seconds, so it’s quite nippy which is good for taking off at Doha’s busy roundabouts and its small size makes parking a lot easier too. The interior design of the A1 is quite simple although the exterior has a nice sporty physique. I really enjoyed the driving experience of the A1 as the low centre of gravity makes the handling superb. Price: Standard model QR99,000

September 2011

Beauty on

wheels

What do women generally look for in a car? Reliability, affordability, style and safety, say industry experts. Starring all four factors, Forbes.com lists the top 10 cars that women will simply love. Woman Today can’t wait for these beauties to arrive in the city. 2011 GMC Acadia

2012 Mazda 5

Special Features: Standard stability control, XM Radio, OnStar and remote keyless entry; optional power sunroof and heated/cooled front seats. MPG: 17 city/24 hwy MSRP: QR115,898 ($31,840)

Special Features: Standard stability and traction control, five-speed automatic transmission, cruise control, second-row captain’s chairs and fold-out table; optional xenon headlights, leather-trimmed heated front seats, anti-theft alarm system. MPG: 21 city/28 hwy MSRP: QR69,870 ($19,195)

2011 Kia Optima Hybrid Special Features: Kia’s first hybrid car uses a lightweight lithium polymer battery with a four-cylindar engine and a six-speed automatic transmission. MPG: 36 city/40 hwy MSRP: QR94,640 ($26,000)

2011 Hyundai Tucson Special Features: Standard brake control and hillstart assist, traction control and (on the GL) five-speed manual transmission; optional six-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive. MPG: 20 city/27 hwy MSRP: QR68,778 ($18,895)

2011 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport Special Features: Standard stability control with hillstart assist, USB capability and (on the ES) five-speed manual; optional high-intensity headlamps, auto climate control with pollen filter, heated front seats, passive-entry system with panic feature. MPG: 24 city/31 hwy MSRP: QR67,322 ($18,495)

2011 Volvo C70 Special Features: Standard front fog lights, stability control and anti-skid system, remote controlled alarm and locking system, door-mounted inflatable curtain airbags; optional dual xenon headlamps, remote garage door opener. MPG: 19 city/28 hwy MSRP: QR145,418 ($39,950)

2012 Acura TL Special Features: Standard sport-shift automatic with paddle shifters, performance braking, keyless remote entry and Bluetooth; optional surround sound, all-wheel-drive, blindspot warning. MPG: 20 city/29 hwy MSRP: QR129,602 ($35,605)

2011 Chevrolet Cruze Eco Special Features: Standard six-speed manual transmission, OnStar, remote keyless entry, XM Radio; optional Bluetooth, remote vehicle start, cruise control, six-speed automatic transmission MPG: 28 city/42 hwy MSRP: QR67,067 ($18,425)

2011 Saab 9-5 Special Features: Standard Bluetooth, USB, XM Radio, cooled glove box, heated front seats, keyless start, ambient lighting; optional leather seats, panorama moonroof, multi-colour display, sport-leather steering wheel. MPG: 20 city/33 hwy MSRP: QR140,231 ($38,525)

2011 Chevrolet Equinox Special Features: Standard traction control, tyre pressure monitor, hillstart assist, XM Radio, sliding rear seat; optional rear-seat entertainment, E85 flexfuel capability, heated front seats, rear-park assist. MPG: 22 city/32 hwy MSRP: QR83,701 ($22,995)

2011 September

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Lexus RX350

Reviewed by: Sindhu Nair

Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s your Dravatar? Refined wealthy diva What we like best: Smooth and silent drive and the speed display on the front windscreen. Music Mood: Arabic Pop Could do with: Nothing, this car has no faults. It has the elegant looks and the efficiency in drive to hook anyone testdriving to strive and buy it. Traffic vibes: Envious looks from women Colour choice: Silver Metallic Mica Review: I loved this car. Period. The features are all top end. The best feature is the speed display on the front windscreen that makes you know your speed without taking your eye off the road. The keyless entry is very convenient and the A/Cs give instant cooling, a boon in Qatar summers. Add to this the other features like adaptive front lighting, power rear door, intelligent high-beam headlamps, stereo system with nine speakers and adjustable rear seats. Optional features available include front seats that can be both heated and cooled, leather upholstery, a blind-spot detector, a voiceactivated navigation system, dynamic radar cruise control, a back-up camera, a rear DVD entertainment system and an advanced premium surround sound audio system. Luxury is taken to a different level in this mid-sized crossover SUV. The engine is a 3.5 liter V6 that delivers 275 horsepower. The transmission is a six-speed automatic with artificial intelligence shift control that uses multiple driving sensors to improve the performance of the vehicle and increase its fuel economy. Price: Entry level QR186,000 and full option QR247,000

September 2011

Which car

ma’am?

Buying a car can be intimidating for most of us. Here are a few tips to remember before visiting your local dealers...

For brand new cars: Do your research via the internet on the desired brands/models. Compare the prices and features of each. Read reviews by fellow users. Speak to those who own a similar model.

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For used cars: Always buy from a reputable, franchised dealer. This will ensure the information you get is correct, mileages are genuine, you have recourse if there is a problem, etc.

Don’t go for the biggest car because you think it’s safer. A car’s safety depends on its safety rating and not size.

Ask for a test drive. You will probably be driving the car for a few years, so you want to make sure you and your passengers are happy and comfortable with it.

Know your budget and stick to it. Negotiate on the price. Check the car’s insurance cost too.

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5 6

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Prepare your questions in advance. Don’t accept everything that the salesperson says.

Don’t be put off by pushy salesmen – bring a friend if you feel the need. Approach salespersons in a more casual way; don’t show them your eagerness to buy a car. They might jack up the price. Never buy on an impulse.

Like a new car, always take a test drive first before buying.

If your budget allows, always try getting the latest model to avail of the manufacturers’ warranty. Let a mechanic do the basic check-up before you sign a contract.

Never view a used car in poor light or at night. Faults often go unnoticed.

Given the demographic in Qatar, when women come for cars, they are mostly mums who want to make sure the family will be safe and comfortable in the vehicle they are planning to buy. Our experience is the man does the initial research and the woman then comes in with the husband/family to make the final choice together Beth T. Tamano, Marketing Manager, DOMASCO.

Car review sites

http://www.drivearabia.com/ http://automiddleeast.com/ http://www.caranddriver.com/ http://www.topgear.com http://www.caradvice.com.au/ 2011 September

CARCRAZE

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Jaguar XJ Premium Luxury

Reviewed by: Orna Ballout

What’s your dravatar? The cat that got the cream What we like best: Rides smooth Could do with: More exotic exterior styling Traffic vibes: Luxury incognito Music mood: Smooth Operator Colour choice: Blue Word best describes it: Smooth Review: My most salient memory of the Jaguar XJ was the smoothness of the ride. It’s almost like this car floats above the road. The interior combines sophistication with comfort with leather seats and luxurious finishing. Inside, it feels like you’re the pilot of a luxury jet as the LCD displays are very futuristic. In sport mode, I was quick to forget the size of the car, as the 5 litre engine accelerates with ease. The rear camera and adjustable wing mirrors really help when reversing too. Even if you’re not behind the wheel, this is the type of car you’d want to be chauffeured around in and it’s currently the choice of the British Prime Minister David Cameron! The XJ is premium luxury and those who can afford it won’t be disappointed. Price: QR349,000

September 2011

‘Brake’ the rules

With the recent spate of accidents in the city, Woman Today offers you tips for crash-free travel. Take care...

Buckle up: Buckling up is the best way of keeping safe. Ensure you buckle up even in the backseat. Most of the recent road accident deaths in Doha involved passengers in the backseat not wearing their seatbelt.

Hands on the Wheel and Eyes on the Road: Avoid taking your hands off the steering wheel to answer your phone, have a bite of your sandwich or apply make-up. Reserve these tasks for the signals or while parked.

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Roundabouts: Stick to the lane as per your exit plan and keep those indicators flashing.

Maintain distance: Leave enough space between you and the car ahead of you to avoid bumping into it during an emergency. Never tailgate.

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Etiquette: A courteous driver will never cut people off or make sudden lane changes, block lanes or use the horn unnecessarily. Tyre safety: It is recommended that tyre checks for air pressure and tread wear should be carried out at least once a month. Faulty tyres are cited as a leading cause of road traffic accidents, particularly during the summer months

Baby on Board

Does the five-inch sticker on your back window mean your child is safe? A few tips will do you and your baby good...

Never keep your child on your lap, especially in the front seat. Use a baby seat instead even if it is a short trip. The front seat has an air bag which might hurt the child during an accident.

3 4 5

Be visible: Switch on the headlights so that other drivers know you are around in the dark. Don’t switch lanes without signalling, but remember to turn the indicator off once done.

Parking: Don’t occupy space meant for two cars, nor try to squeeze your vehicle into a narrow area. It’s better to wait for parking than to have a nasty scratch on your vehicle.

7 8

Haste is waste: Avoid jumping lanes to save time. Be patient. Leave early instead to escape traffic jams. Drive alert: Under the influence of alcohol, medication, fatigue or stress? Stay off the roads.

For children aged 0-4 years, the baby seat must be placed in the back seat with the baby facing backwards to avoid straining the neck if the car jerks suddenly. Tie a few toys to the babyseat to avoid your child moving around in the backseat in search of them.

Most cars have child safety locks installed that can prevent children opening the door from inside. Be sure to use them. Don’t let your child play with automatic car windows. It is also not safe to let children put their hands or heads out of the window of a moving car.

2011 September

CARCRAZE

Volvo XC90

Reviewed by: Sindhu Nair

Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s your Dravatar? Practical mom on the move What we like best: Safety and a new feature that can be termed as a Volvo innovation, the Blind Spot Information Centre Could do with: Some excitement on the road. Traffic vibes: Nonchalance Music Mood: Blues Rock Colour choice: White Review: There is no fault that you can rake up while reviewing this SUV. Its kid-friendly safety features make it extremely tempting for the mother in me. The ride-quality is smooth and the cabin stays quiet, while handling is fine. The 6 cylinder 3.2lt gives a power of 243 hp. Interiors are stylish and has all the works, the navigation system, Bluetooth and sun roof option. If you want a safe buy, then the Volvo is the one you should opt for, but if you need some excitement and some more raw power, look elsewhere... Price: QR154,900

September 2011

Drive

a greener road

Let’s begin with some science. Did you know that carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions are directly proportional to the fuel your car consumes? Each one percent increase in fuel consumption results in a corresponding one percent increase in CO2 emissions that eventually adds up to the ecological crisis called ‘global warming’. It’s a fast world, we know that, and commuting by car is a must. You don’t have to lock up your car in the garage, but use it wisely or rather eco-consciously. Here are a few tips for an eco-friendly drive...

Carpool: If some of you are heading to the same place, let one volunteer to drive the rest. This comes in handy when dropping off kids to school.

grocery shopping (or any shopping) for one trip.

Wash:

Peak hours:

A commercial car wash saves up to 500 litres of water compared to washing with a bucket at home. One chore off your list.

Avoid maddening rush hours on the roads; you will save time and energy too.

Hybrid cars:

Cruise control: This is a speed control system installed in cars that automatically controls the speed of your vehicle, making it more fuel-efficient. An average fuel saving of 10 percent is possible by cruising.

Speeding: You want to be on time, all right. But by driving faster than 90kph you are lowering fuel efficiency. Leave home earlier whenever possible.

Tyres: Driving a vehicle on properly inflated tyres helps to reduce rolling resistance, which aids in reducing fuel consumption as well as the risk of an accident.

Idling: Turn off your engine while waiting in your car. A car that’s on idle for two minutes wastes a kilometre's worth of gas. This could also be applied when you wait incessantly for a parking space at malls.

Trips: Fetch milk on Sunday, bread on Monday and soap on Tuesday? No, keep your

Many car manufacturers are now devising hybrid cars that run on alternative sources of energy such as solar energy or electricity as well as petrol or diesel. The pro – they are eco-friendly; the con – they are hard on your wallet.

Bicycle: If your child’s pal lives just across the street, why not let him cycle over rather than dropping him off in your car?

Luggage: Check your car’s boot to clear clutter. This reduces your engine’s workload, which means it will burn less fuel and so cut CO2 emissions.

Warm-up: Do you wait for the engine to warm up? It’s a myth. In fact it causes rapid engine wear and uses unnecessary fuel. Just drive your car gently till the engine has warmed up.

Throw waste: Keep roads clean. Don’t throw cans, plastic or cigarette butts out of your car windows.

2011 September

CARCRAZE

name

Slug

GMC Terrain

Reviewed by: Orna Ballout

What’s your dravatar? Soccer Mom What we like best: Remote controlled air conditioner that lets you have the car ice cold before you’ve even got into it. Could do with: A quicker response time Traffic vibes: Inconspicuous Music mood: Musical Theatre Colour choice: Grey Word best describes it: Safe Review: The GMC Terrain is the perfect family car. Known as the baby Yukon, the SUV style is not only spacious but its presence on the road makes you and your family feel safe. The spacious boot is great for those holiday road trips where you need plenty of room for suitcases and prams. And the rear seat entertainment works to keep the kids amused on those long drives. Don’t forget the touch screen navigation system which will help prevent any arguments when you do get off the beaten track. The automatic tailgate is awesome for when you’ve got your hands full with the family. Price: QR149,000

September 2011

Revamp your car

Just like your wardrobe, your car too deserves a mini-makeover after a point of time. Here’s a check-list of all that you could possibly do to spruce up your ride! Keep ticking... Change your steering wheel cover – think genuine leather, sport grip or zebra stripes.

used for the front or back seat as well as your trunk.

Add zing to your car’s upholstery with Hawaiian style, animal print or royal monochrome seat covers.

Seat belt pads are not just great accessories but they have a much softer impact than the otherwise hard seat-belts.

Why stick to mundane black floor mats? A little colour would match it to your seat covers.

A strip of led lights near the headlights or the side-view mirrors will turn you into a rock star.

How about some eye-catching antenna ball toppers?

Car head rest covers and neck pillows are both fancy and comfortable.

If you love flowers, you get an auto vase to hold fresh or artificial flowers. Fresh flowers can be messy though. Decorative gel air-fresheners can be hung from the rear-view mirror or kept under the seat to eliminate stale odour. Funky colourful charms hanging from the rear-view mirror look adorable. Fuzzy mirror covers would add to the charm of those charms. Cat paw print or butterfly car stickers and other see-through window decals look cute. Is your car key clamped to a cute key chain that dangles each time you turn on the car’s ignition? If there is too much clutter in your car, get your car organised with a smart car organiser that can be

Upgrade your car stereo system; it would look cooler. Wanna race? Trendy car chrome wheels will do the trick. Add on – car spoilers. Add volume to your car’s eyes. Confused? You get removable car lashes and crystal eye-liner strips for the headlights. Only, you can’t flutter those! Buy side skirts to make your car look stunningly lower to the ground. It also helps create better air flow. Spray paint your car; heads would turn for sure. Imagine you car doors rotating vertically upwards while opening. Seen that in movies? Get these lambo doors for your car too. Name your car just like you name your pet. It’s fun!

2011 September

CARCRAZE

MINI Cooper S Countryman

Reviewed by: Sindhu Nair

What’s your Dravatar: Trendy jetsetter What we like best: The chrome-lined round large speedometer and the sports button Could do with: Even more space Traffic vibes: Lots of admiration Music mood: Hard rock Colour choice: Pure Red with a black cap Review: The Countryman is the brand’s answer to space and is large by MINI standards. Though some wonder whether this design has strayed away from the original signature tininess of the brand, I personally loved the additional space which doesn’t take away the cheekiness of the car. You forget the size of the car when you press the pedal; instant response, heady pickup and absolutely no rolling around tight corners, makes the car desirable for the young. The MINI Countryman All-4 comes with a 4-in line engine with a torque of 240 Nm. Price: QR175,000 to 180,000

September 2011

Honk!Honk!

Those driving around the city spill the beans in a Woman Today Poll.

The speed (kmph) you normally drive at: 60-80 100-120

19% 19%

80-100 Depends

You wish you owned:

57% 5%

4-Door Sedan 2-Door Coupe Station Wagon Convertible

You were last fined for: Braking the signals Wrong parking Accident Never fined

2% 43% 4% 32% 19%

other (Speeding, not wearing the seat belt)

You like driving: Alone A packed car

64% 13% 23%

Other (Both, depends, with a friend)

When you are at the backseat: You wear your seatbelt They have seatbelts?

Maybe 1 Where 's the hood?

There' s a car behind, flashing its headlight. Do you: Change the lane submissively

2% 19% 17%

Stay Stubborn

other

(Depends on my mood, change only when safe)

How often do you service your car?

49% 51%

What s under the hood? How many parts can you identify? More than 4

Sports Car

34% 11% 6% 26% 23%

47% 38% 15%

Twice a year Once a year When was the last time?

68% 28% 4%

You purchased your car based on Brand name and performance

51% 32% 0% 17%

Affordability

When the tyre goes flat, do you change it by yourself? What are garages for? With some help Yes

34% 36% 30%

Colour

Other

(Size, feel, reliability)

2011 September

CARCRAZE

Porsche Panamera S Hybrid

Reviewed by: Orna Ballout

Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s your dravatar? Business woman on the move What we like best: Luxurious interior Could do with: A bigger rear window providing better visibility Traffic vibes: Everyone is courteous towards the Panamera Music mood: Jazz Colour choice: White Word best describes it: Elegant Review: Porsche have finally made their first green car in an attempt to cash in on the ever expanding eco-activist market. The Panamera is the most economical Porsche ever created and still manages 0 to 100kph in 6 seconds flat. It retains the signature Porsche front end but as the panamera is a 5 door saloon, the rear end styling has suffered. This is not all bad though, as there is now room for two adults in the back. The Panamera S Hybrid comes with a 3.0 litre V6 engine which is supplemented by electric motors. When the throttle is lifted, the electronic motors take over saving fuel and the environment! Cool features include an automatic rear spoiler, tip-tronic gears on the wheel and each seat maintains independent climate control. Price: QR368,000

September 2011

Porsche Cayenne V6

Review: The Porsche Cayenne is an SUV from the iconic sports-car maker from Stuttgart and if that sounds strange, you have to ride it to comprehend the sporty features of the bulky SUV. The car might look bulky but handling cannot be easier. It is agile and the time taken from 0-100km/ hr is just 7.8mts. The base Porsche Cayenne is powered by a 3.6-liter V6 that produces 300 hp and 295 pound-feet of torque. All-wheel drive is standard, as is a six-speed manual transmission. Price: Starting from QR247,600

2011 September

Reviewed by: Sindhu Nair

Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s your Dravatar? Super woman What we like best: The V6 engine that makes speed seem like a necessity. Could do with: The Cayenne has everything a woman can ask for, looks and power, space and agility...maybe a handbag holder?! Traffic vibes: A lot of respect for this awe-inspiring Porsche brand that combines power with oomph! Music mood: Hard Rock Colour choice: Chocolate brown

CARCRAZE

name

Slug

Honda Civic

Reviewed by: Sindhu Nair

Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s your Dravatar: Doha Diva What we like best: The low seating and the responsive ride Could do with: Sensors on the front sides because the car is so low you just cannot see its entire span making manoeuvring a bit dicey. Traffic vibes: Blends with the traffic Music Mood: Pop Colour choice: Red Pearl Review: The 2012 Honda Civic comes with new features, and a redefined shape which is not dramatically different from the old one though the new version closely resembles the City now. Driving the Civic is comfortable and response is instant. The front-wheel-drive is powered by a 1.8-liter fourcylinder engine that puts out 140 horsepower and 17.7kgms of torque. Transmission choices include a five-speed manual and an available five-speed automatic. A rearview camera and smoked glass sunroof with a tilt up option are the few added features. Fuel economy seems to be the highlight of the car. Price: QR78,000

September 2011

Honda Pilot

Review: The Honda Pilot sports a great safety rating and very comfortable third row seating arrangement. It is also quite the family-friendly vehicle. The base engine is a 3.5 liter V-6 which brings about 250 horsepower to the table and delivers 35.4 kgms of torque. Some features like the rear camera display on the rearview mirror is practical and makes parking the huge car easier. The ride is comfortable. Price: QR139,000

2011 September

Reviewed by: Sindhu Nair

Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s your Dravatar? Soccer Mom What we like best: The size Could do with: The front centre console is an eye sore. A little thought on design details would have made the car look much more elegant! Traffic vibes: The Karwa certainly makes way for you, its size is imposing! Colour choice: Dark Cherry Music Mood: Hard Rock

CARCRAZE

Tunisian motorcycling champion Hamida Saklaoui is one of the few female Arab motorcyclists. During the 2010 Rally OiLibya of Tunisia, she was the only woman participating among the 120 professional and amateur racers. She also founded the first ever ‘Association of Female Motorcyclists’ in the Arab world.

I’ll be carrying the Tunisian flag, and the flag of women as well. I’ll do my best to reach the finish line, and I’ll take on the challenge without paying attention to the gender of the other racers.

Fast and the fabulous Nada Zeidan is Qatar’s first woman rally driver and set another record as the first woman from the country and the GCC region to drive at the World Rally Championship in Jordan last year. “I wanted to represent Arab women as strong, dependable and willing to take risks because the rest of the world has a notion of us being second class citizens whose voices are seldom heard. During that time it was a bit unrealistic for the local culture to accept a woman rally driver. However, I overcame these challenges by keeping my focus clear and explaining to the resistors that my participation would in no way harm the image of women culturally, rather it was a great motivator for girls and women to know that being in sports is a positive experience and that they can look up to a role model who came from the same background.” For aspiring female rally drivers, she says, “Know in your heart that this is the sport you love to be a part of, once that is realised have strong passion and convictions about it and pursue your training seriously. Do it for the love of it, not because you want to be seen.”

September 2011

Woman Today profiles those who have lived their dreams with their hands on the wheel...

“I had an inner feeling that told me I would win that stemmed from my confidence in my skills. But I am not arrogant that I won. I only proved something to myself especially when my male colleagues thought I would lose. “I would want to see more Saudi women participate in such rallies to show their skills. Anything that Arab men think women can’t do, we should just do it.”

Yasmin Al-Hilli is not just Bahrain’s first female rally driver, but was also the first Gulf woman to complete the Middle East rally championship in 2002.

Nicknamed “little Schumacher”, Laleh Seddigh is considered to be Iran’s best female racing driver. “Every time I want to practice or make a test drive, the track staff ask me for a letter of permission – even though I am the captain of the Proton Rally team. Men never have this kind of hassle. “Resistance from men does not bother me. Once I get on the track I like to use my technical skills, take control and dominate the other drivers. Most of the men, I think, are jealous, and I don’t care about that.”

Rally driving is just like driving on the roads. With this rally we are looking forward to paving the way for more women in this field of sports. Women are better drivers after all. It would be great to have a good all-women team which would include technicians, mechanics and good drivers.

Hanan Kurdi is Jordan’s first female waste disposal truck driver. “There are people, especially women, who think it’s weird and stare. My advice to women is that whatever the work may be, work is not shameful. There are thousands of (women) doctors, teachers, and nurses, but there are no female (waste disposal) truck drivers and that is the challenge. I wish that people would start accepting the idea and we reach a point where it is not strange anymore.”

Leena Ibrahim became Gaza’s first female truck driver. “Usually men and women come up to me asking me ridiculous questions like: ‘Are you crazy?’ Or, ‘Are you a man disguised?’ And women usually show their resentment, saying that a female should never do what I do. I answer back saying that women are no longer defined like the past. It’s more than just driving a truck; it is about women’s equality.”

Photo courtesy: afp

Though women in Saudi Arabia have still to earn their rights to drive, Marwa Al-Eifa became the first Saudi female rally driver to win the First International Women’s Rally car race in 2005.

2011 September

CARCRAZE

Anger n the Highways By Sonya Schneider-Ghaddar

he driver who cuts you off at the roundabout; the one who tailgates you, bullies you off your lane; the one who blocks your way and threatens to take it further... All of us have heard of the term “road rage”. But unless you have been a victim of road rage it is hard to fathom how scary it can be. If taken too far it can even be lifethreatening. We all get frustrated from time to time with another person’s driving, right? But road rage is bigger than that. It is frustration gone mad. According to the American Psychiatric Association (APA), road rage may be a sign of a bigger problem known as Intermittent Explosive Disorder (IED). This disorder is characterised by overreacting to stress with symptoms that include lashing out in a verbally aggressive and/or physically violent manner towards another person. The APA first recognised this disorder in 1980. The term “road rage” originated several years later, in 1987 when there were several cases of drive-by shootings on freeways in Los Angeles. Since then it has been regarded as a worldwide phenomenon, wreaking havoc on the highways and byways and taking many lives in the process.

Learn the signs Driving can be stressful in the best of situations, but if the commute is long or road construction causes delays, or even if your fellow driver is just having a bad day,

September 2011

tempers may flare on both sides. It is important to learn the signs of road rage before they escalate – whether it is you or the other driver exhibiting them. These signs include shouting, aggressive hand gestures, negative facial expressions, yelling obscenities at other drivers, flashing one’s lights, excessive use of the horn, and aggressive driving techniques such as cutting others off in lanes, speeding, etc.... Road rage is the combination of negative thoughts and emotions which then translate into explosive, aggressive behaviour towards another driver. The driver at this point is out of control, and what started off as a personal issue soon becomes a public safety hazard.

How to cope? There are many coping mechanisms

in the literature that are helpful in preventing such incidents. 1. Allow plenty of time to get to your destination, which will also allow for unexpected delays or frustration on the road. 2. Listen to calm, relaxing music rather than irritating talk shows or loud music. 3. Never drive when you are lacking in sleep. The tendency to overreact is greater when you are tired. 4. Don’t be pushed into a rage by another bad driver. Breathe deep and focus on your driving. Let it go. 5. Take a self test. Analyse your driving. Ask yourself: Do you swear or rant at other drivers? How can you be a more relaxed driver? 6. Always move out of the left lane to give others a chance to pass you. 7. Be a courteous driver. Practise kindness. 8. Be mindful of your emotions when you sit behind the wheel. Get a grip on yourself before you begin to drive. 9. If another driver is the perpetrator and is driving in a reckless and dangerous way, give him the road – don’t antagonise him any further! It is not worth the possible consequences. Applying these simple tips may prevent a road rage incident from occurring or at least from escalating. It is your responsibility to drive safely and to remain calm. But don’t take it upon yourself to set other drivers straight regarding their poor driving skills. Leave that to the traffic police. It is always better to be safe than to be DEAD right

fix

filial

Sleep like a baby?

Dr Rajka Milanovic Galbraith shares her top tips to get your child to sleep, and be well-rested.

September 2011

f your baby is a textbook baby, then, during those first few weeks you may wonder if your baby will ever wake. However, not all infants are good sleepers nor do they know how to soothe themselves to sleep. The following are tips, I wish I had known, to get your child to sleep.

Sleep begets sleep. The more an infant sleeps, the better an infant will sleep with each subsequent sleep. Keep an infant awake for prolonged periods and they will become over stimulated and sleep less. Putting a baby to bed late does not make them sleep late. It only deprives them of sleep. If you have reached this stage of over stimulation then going into a completely dark room and following the four “S’s – shushing, sucking swaying and swaddling – should work to calm your infant. Be patient and perseverant as it may take a while for your baby to be quiet. And don’t feel guilty if this happens, I think all mums have been there before. Infants need to get back to sleeping within 1-2 hours of awakening. Think about this. If a baby sleeps every 1-2 hours, this equates to a lot of sleep and can serve to frustrate you when trying to stick to routines as well as keep up with your daily errands. So try sticking to a routine and then periodically, have times where you will miss your baby’s normal routine. A baby will sleep anywhere for the first four months. So have your lunches out, shop and visit with friends to your heart’s content during these four months. Follow a bedtime routine from day one. Lessen stimulating activity an hour or two before bedtime. Here is a sample routine: bath, massage, story, feed, cuddle with a song or some rocking. The goal is to put your baby down drowsy but still awake. It takes some time to get to this point. Start by doing less and less of the activity that gets your child to sleep i.e. if you rock or cuddle, decrease the time you spend doing so. Start with the first nap of the day when your baby is the most tired and then work your way up to bedtime. I recall that for our daughter, we had to put her to sleep in her bouncer for a short

Ask the Doc:

How much sleep does my child need?

This depends on what your child’s basal need is plus a sleep debt that they need to make up for. On an average, for 0-2 months of age it is 12-18 hours, 3-11 months – 14-15 hours, 1-3 years – 12-14 hours, 3-5 years – 11-13 hours, 5-10 years – 10-11 hours and 10-17 years – 8.5-9.25 hours.

What sleep resources do you recommend?

I like Healthy Sleep Habits, Happy Child by Marc Weissbluth and The No-Cry Sleep Solution: Gentle Way to Help Your Baby Sleep Through the Night by Elizabeth Pantley. You can find my reviews for these books on my website: www.expatdoctormom.com under resources. As there are no formal sleep training programmes in Doha, some of the mums have been trained by a doula from Canada who has taught classes virtually over skype with great success. You can find her information here: http://www. preciousmomentsdoula.ca/

What are the signs that my child is not getting enough sleep?

No matter what time of the day it is, your child falls asleep in the car or while watching television. Your child is still napping after the age of seven. Your child is irritable during the day. You have to wake your child up every morning.

Note: As children get into the school year, it is even more important that they sleep well. A sleepdeprived child can act as if they have Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), have decreased concentration and be irritable. With the summer holidays, it is easy to get out of our normal routines. Start several days to a week before the start of school to re-implement a bedtime routine if you have gotten away from it. Then the first day of school will be more likely to be tear-free.

while and then transfer her to her cot a short while later. With patience we were able to get her down in her cot to begin with. During those first few weeks and months, I wish I had “stopped, listened and waited a short time (10-20 seconds even)” before I went in to soothe. I am not talking about letting your baby cry in these early days. A little fussing is all it sometimes takes for your infant to start learning to self soothe. The younger the infant, the easier it is to learn. Stick to one method of sleep training that is appropriate for your lifestyle and beliefs. A common mistake parents make is trying out so many methods that the infant doesn’t have time to learn one method well. There are essentially three methods: No Cry (you do what it takes to get your child to sleep and don’t let your child cry at all), Controlled Cry (you let your child cry for increasing lengths of time until they learn to put themselves to sleep) and the Let Cry (you simply let your baby cry it out). The latter may sound cruel but it is effective if done properly.I will say this at the risk of having some mothers gasp: Letting a child cry it out when all else has failed is not cruel. For the simple reason, an infant who does not learn to soothe itself to sleep will have trouble falling asleep as an adult. As the result of being rocked, I had extreme difficulty falling asleep as a child and into adulthood. Only after seven years of sleep deprivation during medical training and a loan of QR546,000 did I learn to fall asleep anywhere!

Dr Rajka Milanovic Galbraith is an American Board certified family physician, a mother of two and a wife who has resided in Doha for the past 6 years. She has over 14 years of clinical experience and is regarded highly by her patients, colleagues and staff. Recently she launched a website: www.expatdoctormom.com, which provides up-to-date information in a wide variety of areas including: healthcare, parenting, travel, and entrepreneurship. Dr Rajka writes a regular column covering subjects from women and family health to parenting issues. If you have questions you wish answered, please write to wtoday@omsqatar.com, subject line ‘Ask the Doc’.

2011 September

fitness

health&

Healthy aspirations

Amel Osman scouts the best ways to stay fit in Doha Qatar is quickly evolving as a hotspot for sports and fitness, With many international sporting events being held here recently and plenty more planned for the future. we caught up with Aspire coach Melissa Faranan to find out how those living in Qatar can stay fit and healthy. What is the biggest challenge for Qatar residents trying to stay fit? One of the biggest limitations here is the sheer vastness of the country. Everything is so spacious that it’s next to impossible to get from one venue to another without a vehicle. In Europe it’s so easy to grab a pair of sneakers and a backpack and set off to work on foot that you can be more active without making a conscious effort to exercise. The extreme weather conditions here also affect a fitness routine. We risk sun exposure and loss of valuable body fluid. Health clubs are very expensive here. What other options are there for those wanting to increase their fitness levels and fight obesity? I agree that clubs and memberships can be expensive here. I personally don’t believe in spending a fortune to keep fit. Not when we have the beautiful Corniche that’s so accessible. It can be used for jogging, hopping, skipping or whatever else you might be into. Rollerblading is an awesome way to tone thighs and bottoms and eruptions of laughter can be heard at the occasional stumble. Good for the heart in more ways than one! Aspire also has various classes at an afford-

September 2011

Keep moving...

Take the stairs instead of the lift when you can. Walk short distances instead of taking your car. Organise activities with your friends such as walks finished off with a healthy picnic instead of dinner in restaurants. Always carry dried fruit, nuts and chopped fruit to snack on and ease those hunger pangs. Carry a bottle of water and sip regularly to flush toxins and keep you hydrated. At restaurants choose the healthier options such as grilled instead of fried, and substitute bread with carrot sticks for dipping. Keeping fit should be about having fun to stay healthy. It shouldn’t be difficult or expensive. It’s a privilege we have and we should take care of our hearts. When you think about it, our heart is going to be with us all our life and it should be more important than money, the latest phone or expensive cosmetics......it’s our health.......it’s our LIFE!

able price for both men and women. There’s aerobics for women and circuit training for men amongst many other varieties. It creates a real atmosphere to belong to one of these groups, especially if you find it hard to source that willpower inside. Being part of a team makes it difficult to quit as you depend on each other! I also know that salsa lessons are hugely popular here. It’s a fantastic way to keep fit and learn something new. It tones and shapes the entire body and it’s fun too. What positive steps have you taken to improve your health and fitness in Doha? Personally I love the Corniche. My weekly routine involves three jogs lasting 45 minutes each. I use the remaining 15 minutes for situps and a cool-down. I also love to shoot hoops on any available Friday at Qatar Foundation. It’s a really beautiful environment there and the campus takes me back to my old days as a student. Working out in a team or with friends also provides the motivation and support you need. It gives you a real sense of stability. It’s being the best you can be, at whatever level you are. Competing or just having fun – it lays

a good foundation and really helps you cope with the pressures of day-to-day life. I always find that a good workout, be it jogging, shooting hoops or even a good dance routine, helps me release a lot of pressure and start the new day with a fresh mind. What advice would you give to those who cannot afford to hire a personal trainer or join a sports club? I would start by saying: ‘Do what you can. Do anything!’ It’s not all about flash clubs or a personal trainer. I never had one. My high school was really sports-orientated and I was proud to be a part of it but we didn’t have top of the range facilities. Qatar has so much to offer. Kids are really lucky here. Start by doing a few laps in your compound pool. Walk a few times around the block. Instead of taking the elevator, take the stairs. Make a cool hip-hop routine with your friends and rehearse it. Go to salsa lessons. There is absolutely no end to what you can do or how creative you can be. I once had a friend who lived in an apartment with no gym and she ran up and down the stairs for 20 minutes each day to keep fit. She lived on the 7th floor, by the way!

Fitness fuel

It’s easy to get dehydrated quickly here and a lot of people don’t realise that. Even the office air conditioner can take its toll, so it’s important to have a bottle of water close at hand to sip at intervals. I’d also recommend those who are lucky enough to travel to work on foot to apply an SPF lotion to exposed areas. We should really try to eat healthily. Breakfast is the most important meal of the day, so I indulge there. I eat well at lunch and take something light in the evening. I snack on nuts during the afternoon. Don’t deprive yourself of chocolate or other things you like, just enjoy them in moderation. There is so much temptation here with the fast food chains. With today’s busy life and running from one meeting to another it’s not often we get to sit down and have a nutritious meal. Time just doesn’t permit. So we end up driving to the nearest KFC or shawarma restaurant. A lot of the time lunch is also skipped, which leads to snacking on the wrong things like chips and chocolate and adding extra empty calories. It’s easy to chop up a few carrots or strawberries and keep them in an airtight container. I find it easy to snack on them when I’m caught running to the next meeting or stuck in traffic.

What’s your pick?

Experts agree that group exercise can be beneficial. Working out in a group provides support, accountability and structure. People don’t want to let their buddy or group down, which is terrific in terms of adherence to an exercise routine. Here is a list of popular fitness classes to try out in Doha. Spinning Spinning is an aerobic exercise that takes place on a specially designed stationary bicycle called a spinning bike. During the class you vary your pace – sometimes pedalling as fast as you can, other times cranking up the tension and pedalling slowly from a standing position. This helps you to focus inwardly and work on your mind as well as your body. Spinning burns serious calories (about 450 in 45 minutes) and offers an awesome aerobic workout that makes your heart pump fast. It also tones your quadriceps (front thigh muscles) and outer thigh muscles. You can finish a spin class, regardless of your fitness level, simply by adjusting your pace or the tension knob on the bike. Spinning is available at InterContinental, Al Massa and the Sheraton with lessons starting at QR25.

Yoga Yama Yoga Studios offer the Doha community a peaceful, stress-free environment and knowledgeable yoga instruction to help the community become happier and healthier through the regular practice of yoga. They offer over 30 classes a week, at two locations, aimed at people of all ages and stages of life. They are registered by Yoga Alliance, an international yoga licensing association, as meeting all international standards and also as a 200-hour and 500-hour yoga teacher training facility. Classes take place at Garvey's and the Ritz Carlton Hotel and start at QR25. Boot Camp Boot Camp Qatar is a structured, outdoor, group-based, 60-minute class for people who want to build and maintain their fitness. The

classes start at 6am, 6pm and 7.30pm weekdays (a bit earlier on Thursdays). There are two locations, the Corniche and Education City. If you’re tired of the smell of the gym, the unsociable members and the ‘nobody talks to me’ culture, then head on down to your local park for an exciting new kind of health and fitness experience. Bootcamp is very varied. Over the course of a month you will exercise your whole body using a range of bodyweight resistance exercises, equipment-based exercises, running and core work. They keep it varied to keep it fresh but also to ensure the body can’t adapt (it is very good at that) which means the improvements keep on coming. For more information log on to www.bootcampqatar.com.

2011 September

name

Slug

Ladies only yoga

istorically yoga was a maleonly field. In the course of its evolution from a priestly form of meditation to a counter-culture medium to what we now call “modern postural yoga”, a form of exercise taught in gyms, studios and schools – men have played a dominant role. Woman became involved in yoga only in the mid-20th century as yoga began to make its way into the West. The story goes that the first woman to take a yoga class was the wife of an ambassador stationed in Mysore, India. And it was only because of the status of her husband and the constant pressure of the King himself upon the teacher, a certain Krishnamacharya, otherwise known as the grandfather of modern yoga, that she was allowed access to the class. Luckily for us this woman proved to be a dedicated student. She went on to become Indra Devi, who opened the first yoga studio in Hollywood and taught yoga enthusiasts such as Marilyn Monroe and Gloria Swanson. Her success and dedication opened the doors of Indian yoga studios to us all.

September 2011

Women now dominate yoga – not as famous teachers perhaps but certainly as students. Around the world, up to 80 percent of most yoga classes will have women, and at certain times of the day the classes will most certainly be only of women. Yet as yoga is being adapted to the cultural milieu of the Arab world, these classes of “only women” become “ladies only” classes. There is something radically different about teaching and practising in a class that “only has women” in it and a class for “ladies only” – a difference that I am now beginning to appreciate. When we teach a “ladies only” class the whole approach is different. Our first focus is protection. All the windows are covered, all the doors are screened. A cocoon is created and those outside it work hard to make sure that the security is not breached. As we step onto our mats and take our first deep breaths this sense of protection is reassuring and affirming. It also provides an arena for risk. These classes are challenging too. The women who take them are strong and want to be stronger. Many of my “ladies only” students have not had an extensive physical education and yet yoga plays to their strengths – to their suppleness and fluidity and grace – and this

gives them the confidence to develop strength, stability and stamina. As an expatriate living in the Arab world, for me the “ladies only” classes are also a privilege, an opportunity for an intimate conversation with women only that I rarely have in my daily life. We adapt our practice to our cycles and stages of life, and this is discussed freely in a “ladies only” class. We focus on certain body parts and anatomical needs – no euphemisms are required. We watch the movements of our minds and the effects this has on our body image and self-esteem, and together we slowly train them away from destructive patterns. Together, through a constant give and take of what works and what doesn’t, we balance our culture and religion with the health-giving and life-affirming aspects of yoga. Yoga is a living, evolving tradition and it is a remarkable honour to be a part of its introduction to the Arab world through the “ladies only” classes. But as is usually the case, when you teach you learn more from your students than they do from you. The “ladies only” class is teaching me again and again what it is to be a woman practising yoga

Valerie Jeremijenko is a yoga teacher, writer, educator and the director of Yama Yoga Studios in Doha, Qatar. Her studio offers ladies only classes on a regular basis. See www.yamayogastudios.com for more information

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Style

Rasasi: Scent for your Soul

Nokia: Gold Talk

For the luxury loyalists in Qatar, CGC has introduced the new premium Nokia Oro smartphone, crafted from a combination of leather supplied by Bridge of Weir LeatherTM and 18 carat gold plating, with a menu key of sapphire crystal. The limited edition smartphone also features an eight megapixel camera and a 3.5 inch reinforced-glass AMOLED display. The gold smartphone comes with an 18 carat gold edition of the award-winning Nokia J Bluetooth headset. Get hold of that gold!

Rasasi’s latest perfume Roohy Tehebak, which refers to an Arabic expression of love, is a modern interpretation of the traditional woman. The addictive fragrance exudes a combination of mandarin, orange, lily and gardenia in the top notes while the heart notes combine the essence of peach, pepper, labdanum and frankincense. Patchouli, sandalwood, smoky notes and amber, leave a mysterious finishing touch to the fragrance.

Dermalogica: Hide your Age

Age Smart - the latest innovative, scientificallyadvanced system of products from Dermalogicala – is specifically designed to prevent and repair internal and external damage to aging skin. The range includes emulsions, day moisturisers and face sprays which are rich in Vitamin C, oxidants and SPF – the perfect formula to fight the signs of ageing!

Babyshop: Happy Kids

End you kid’s school-day blues with the exciting ‘Back-to-School’ collection from Babyshop. While the cute Barbie, Mickey Mouse Club House, Dora, My Melody and Disney Princess ranges are ideal for any girl, boys will enjoy flaunting their bags and accessories featuring Ben10, Spiderman, Cars, Ferrari, Hotwheels, ManchesterUnited and Transformers. The attractive five-in-one bundle of school-bags, satchels, pencil-cases, water-bottles and lunch-boxes from the Disney Princess and Cars collection is surely a hit.

September 2011

City Lifestyle: School of cool

Women’s Secret: Flatter Your Figure

Women’s Secret has come up with a new flattering underwear collection – W’shape – which moulds to your figure and enhances it, making you look slim and sexy. The secret is the Lycra beauty fabric which wraps on to your body to define its contours. Its flat seams are barely noticeable and don’t cause marks, thus giving you a soft and comfortable feel. The W’shape collection comprises high-waisted and hipster briefs, trousers, bodysuits and a push-up bra in champagne and black colour. Love your shape!

School’s on once again for your kids. Don’t forget to check out the exciting new Back to School collection from City Lifestyle that features an array of bright and stylish yet durable and essential bags and accessories for children aged five to 15. While sets with pretty pink butterflies and a palette of girly hues in pinks, purples and red are available for girls, boys get to look cool with themes that focus on racing cars, warriors and bikers. It’s a bright and fun collection that will surely stop all the whining!

Chouchic.com: Luxury shopping

A hot, new online shopping website Chouchic.com is all set to launch in the region this month. The site is an exclusive invitation-only online fashion destination that will present its members with private daily sales of luxury & upcoming top fashion labels running for a limited period of time. The Beirutbased Chouchic.com aims to cater solely to the Middle East markets and its consumers, primarily Kuwait, Lebanon, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and UAE.

ChloÉ: Exotic Style

The autumn/winter fall collection from Chloé symbolises the adventurous spirit of the Chloé woman. Each piece is a patchwork of textures and materials and layering effects. Reptilian prints on genuine exotic hides take the form of trench coats, race across blouses and knitwear, highlighting the collection’s sophistication. Straight coats with a perfect hang, calf length skirts with inverted pleats and dresses in textured crepes brightened up by jewelled details are simply chic. The colour palette ranges from black, burgundy and almond to intense green and mango. It’s one elegant collection for this season!

2011 September

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Style

Opening Pandora’s Suitcase By Lynette Cowie

o doubt you and I will be part of Doha’s enthusiastic chatter, sharing our tales of exotic or homeward-bound summer destinations. While this animated exchange of travel anecdotes is invaluable, my curiosity – albeit easily misconstrued as frivolous – would soon have me asking, “But what clothing did you buy?” Aside from global style innovations feeding my visual and tactile cravings, to delve into the suitcases of my fellow travellers would be a delightfully rewarding exposé of their SHE (Shopping Habits Exposed) factors. Nothing short of a science, shopping requires us to consider a multitude of conscious factors like suitability of fit, style, budget, colour, lifestyle and personality. However it’s the buying motivations behind our travel-acquired wardrobes that reflect our emotional state. Let’s delve into six SHE. I deliberately and decisively narrowed my imminent holiday shopping list to three most wanted items; the first being to continue my

September 2011

search for the ever elusive leather skirt. It was on the streets of Florence that I caught first glimpse of Her; a perfectly preserved A-line skirt beckoned me into the musky confines of an alluring vintage store. With my heart beating a little faster I slipped Her on for my travel-mate’s approval. Only, by looking questioningly at my mother, did I peel back the first deception.

SHE Factor

Nostalgia. When we consciously or subconsciously buy on yesteryear’s desires. As I dug deeper I nostalgically recalled this quest being linked to my keen desire to squeeze into my mother’s 70’s-styled patch leather skirt some eight years ago. While the decorative masterpiece would today fit effortlessly into Ralph Lauren’s’ Spring/Summer ‘11 prairie-romance collection, it regretfully didn’t pass over my thighs. Of course the fact that this SHE skirt was a Salvatore Ferragamo original could have you

chanting, “buy it” from the sidelines, but that would make you my accomplice to our second SHE factor...

SHE Factor

Label It. Buying for brand recognition and apparent quality tempts one to skip the usual budget justification process. A misguided concept if you’re price-sensitive. It was, in fact, the skirt’s price tag that was no match for the mainstream Italian sales that were in full swing.

SHE Factor

Seductive Sales is our third and most enticing trigger to SHE. This is a time where many of us try to convince our better halves – usually stronger mathematicians – of our saving skills. The truth is though, that just because one buys an item for half price doesn’t mean we are saving! Remember too, that retailers want to move their slow-selling stock, so let’s

be calculated and discerning in our choice. Of course calculations are not our strong suit when on holiday, as we tend to feel an awakening sense of buoyancy, spontaneity and romance. These strong emotions impact on our style of dress, often altering our daily ‘uniform of conformity’ and being the catalyst for...

SHE Factor

Holiday Fever. It’s rather fun coming home with a rebellious fashion find, but quite another to throw superfluous items deep into your wardrobe. If you find yourself doing the latter, rather resonate with your holiday surroundings by snapping up the local streetflavour crafted in accessories, footwear and jewellery. These items not only bring new life to existing outfits but also allow you to relive fond memories.

SHE Factor

Don’t Hesitate. What can give one a heavy hand in retail therapy is this factor. Buying on impulse gives you little time to consider your

motivations and needs. Retailers know this is the time when you’re easily convinced, effectively using their ‘buy now’ promotional tactics and flattery. Begin practising a cooling off period. Ask to have items put aside. Whether you deliberate over a quick cappuccino, or take advantage of retailers’ customary three-day hold, it’ll give you time to think rationally. Let’s face it, taking time to really look into your wardrobe, selection choices and buying motivations will result in a carefully built signature of personal style.

SHE Factor

it’s time to revitalise both your emotional and wardrobe energies.

Will we get this right every time? I doubt it. But just a little more thought on what makes us the beautiful women we are, is interesting, if not a little complex!

Sheep Mentality. Our final look into what motivates us to buy. Life is too short to mimic others or mindlessly cover our bodies in cloth, rather than authentically expressing ourselves. A real woman is one who embraces her individuality, one who values and creates selfexpression through her dress. Adding to our wardrobes for the sake of having more to wear is neither exciting nor strategic. Copying others is futile. And for those of you who continually turn to your stalemate ensembles,

Aptly known as Doha’s Image and Clothing Revivalist, Lynette Cowie dedicates her creative energies to her family, friends and clientele. For personal styling consultations visit www.lynettecowie.com. She also works with Alyson Gilpin of Woman Today Transform project (see pg 10). Lynette will be writing a regular column for Woman Today.

2011 September

town

around

Have a Glowing Makeover

Glow American Salon has announced a series of the Inner-Glow Monthly Makeovers at the salon to honour one inspirational woman with glowing inner beauty. The selected woman will be pampered with a complete makeover at Glow: Cut, Colour, Style, Make-up. There will also be a “before” and “after” photography session. That’s not the end – the lucky lady would also receive fashion and jewellery gifts from local designers and companies. So how does one identify these women? Glow says, “ It won’t be hard to find them. They are ordinary women who do extraordinary things; women whose inner beauty is inspiring. They are often un-sung heroes. They are women of substance. They have positive attitudes. They do good deeds. They have the courage to follow their dreams. They empower others to live a better life. They give of themselves without hesitation. They cheer you up and cheer you on. They are women from all walks of life who are making a difference – in their family, in the local community, or in the world.” Do you know an amazing woman? Tell Glow who she is and why she deserves a makeover. Be sure to include your full name. Entries to be sent to: hillary@glowamericansalon. com

Women and leadership workshop

Jacqueline Klauer, Management Consultant, Speaker and Facilitator with the leading exhibition, conference and training provider, IIR Middle East for more than 16 years, will be holding her upcoming workshop with IIR Middle East, in association with Dubai School of Government from October 2-5, 2011. The workshop will include two psychometrics sessions which will enable women to delve deep into themselves for self-reflective purposes. “The topics pursued through these metrics are on managing conflict, and understanding your personality and communication preferences. In the past all my delegates have indicated

Starbucks goes Green

s part of Starbucks Community Connections programme which aims to connect, discover, and respond to the environmental and social needs of the local community, Starbucks Qatar partnered with AlWakra Municipality and local environmental associations to clean the Al-Wakra Beach. Starbucks, MENA Regional Communications and CSR Manager, Rana Shaheen said, “Starbucks is

Creative Summer at VCUQ

September 2011

great value in the learning experience that grew from their participation in these exercises,” she says. Jacqueline recently worked with a group of women professionals on topics of emotional intelligence and the psychology of achievement. The session helped both men and women understand and cope with the dynamics of change that affect women in the Gulf region. Further details of her upcoming workshop can be viewed on www.iirme.com/womenleaders. Woman Today will be the exclusive media sponsor for the event.

proud to partner with the Al-Wakra Municipality for this environmental initiative. We are dedicated to building a conscious community that encourages young children and adults to care for our environment today and tomorrow. It is through such partnerships with like-minded establishments and governmental entities that we are able to continue developing our focus on the key pillars of caring for the environment.”

irginia Commonwealth University in Qatar (VCUQ) hosted a three-week Summer Art and Design Programme to explore and advance art and design skills for students aged 9-18 years. In the Art Exploration programme, students were introduced to basics of art and design using different materials and techniques. In the Creative Discovery programme, students learned to merge traditional and new digital media to build design skills. While in the Design Intensive programme, students explored traditional media and digital media as an introduction to design disciplines. Students in the latter two programs visited the Museum of Islamic Art, Mathaf and Fitch. They also participated in a fashion design workshop by Melanie McClintock from VCUQ’s Center for Research in Design. The programme culminated in an exhibition of the students work for families to view and enjoy. Students were given tours of the studios and had the opportunity to speak with VCUQ students about the admissions process as well.

Hair Today,

Gone Tomorrow

It s only been a few months since the Silkor Laser Medical Centre opened its doors in Qatar and it's already down to what it does best removing all that unwanted hair. Woman Today quizzes Branch Manager, Marcelina Elia, about the dos and don'ts of laser treatment.

Does laser hair removal treatment work for all? Laser works best on thick, dark, black hair follicles against a lighter skin colour as the radiation is absorbed well by dark objects. For people with extremely dark skin, a lot of precaution needs to be taken because if both the skin colour and hair follicle are dark, both will absorb the radiation. To guard against this, we perform the laser on a small patch of skin and wait for 24 hours. If there is no sidereaction, we go ahead with it.

coming to us. In fact, they have the best results as hair growth slows down with age.

What precautions does one take before and after the session? Before the session, avoid waxing or tweezing and don t expose your skin directly to the sun for at least 10 days, as this can cause the skin to irritate. Laser treatment can cause further irritation as well as pigmentation. Similarly, immediately after the session, one must avoid sun exposure as much as possible and apply sun-block regularly.

What about the age of the client? Does it matter? Are there possible side effects? There is no age restriction for laser treatments as such, but at Silkor, when a very young girl comes to us with unwanted hair problem, we prefer if her menstrual cycle has begun, as this would mean her body hair growth is complete and it will not grow any longer. If not, the hair removal would not be permanent as the body will continue to grow more hair. We even have people over 60 years of age

There are no side effects whatsoever. However, after the treatment, it is normal for your skin to show redness and irritation. It could last for two hours or two days depending on how sensitive your skin is. It is advisable to avoid applying make-up or any chemical until the affected area has healed.

How often should one do the laser treatment? It s best to have a session every six to eight weeks for the treatment to work properly. You ll need to shave the target area (other than the face) the night before the treatment as the laser targets the hair follicles in particular.

Is laser the only hair removal treatment that Silkor offers? Usually clients ask for laser but we also offer electro-epilation. This method uses small needle-like probes to destroy hair follicles by passing electricity through them. While laser works best on thick, dark, black hair and on a large area, electro-epilation is effective on finer, lighter hair. People with a light coloured hair, such as blondes, go in for electro-epilation. It takes more time and it can be painful. Catch the review of Silkor's underarms laser hair removal treatment in the October issue of Woman Today.

2011 September

musings

qatari

Where’s Your

Burqa?

Muslim travellers continue to bear the brunt of prejudices, as Nofe K. Al-Suwaidi discovers one Ramadan evening in NYC.

Walls of prejudices block out the joy of understanding

September 2011

here’s something about waking up while on vacation, in a notso-familiar setting that can put a person in such elated moods. No deadlines to worry about, no obligations to be met, nothing but you and your wonderful morning. Waking up in New York City on a breezy Ramadan morning, it really couldn’t get any better. Later that morning, I was supposed to be meeting my friend, Noor, from back home. I called to decide on the where and when. An hour later, I walked into her hotel, only to see her suddenly popping out of nowhere catching me completely off guard, draped in a lovely outfit and a divinely colourful head-cover. Once the shock of her scaring me colourless fades, I realised, finally I’m not the only covered girl around. The weird looks won’t just be directed at me anymore, I have someone else to share the burden with. We caught up for hours, went around the City and caught up some more. As it neared Futoor time, we headed to the restaurant and had this oh-so satisfying meal. As we wait for a cab, Noor asks if I’ve ever had anyone harass me or say any demeaning words over wearing a head-cover. Of course, being an Arab and a Muslim, she’s probably

heard countless stories about Muslims being harassed over – well let’s say – being a Muslim. In an attempt to enlighten my dear friend, I tell her that truthfully I can understand why anyone would think that it’s a recurring incident. In actuality, people in this country are just the sweetest and I’ve had nothing but positive encounters and discussions over my religion and my choice to don the hijab. As irony would have it, I was about to have my first incident. The effect of whatever I said was about to be completely undone. The skies opened up and it starts to drizzle again as it had earlier that day. Yet we stood there waiting...and waiting. A while later, a man wearing a black suit and playing around with his phone emerges from somewhere and stands a couple of feet ahead of us, clearly also trying to flag down a taxi. We walk a little to the left to the next pavement so that at least we get a chance at a cab and he does too. We catch a glimpse of a cab from afar that has its vacant light on. As we attempt to flag down the cab it slowed to a stop in front of us. Our momentary sense of relief vanished as the suited gentleman sprinted ahead of us and got into the waiting cab. That wasn’t the end of it. Once in the cab, he gives us the finger and shouts: “Go back to Saudi Arabia!” We stood there, dumbfounded, shocked out of our minds by this rude and racist encounter. What had we done to this man to deserve the attitude and the behaviour? The cab moved a few feet and stopped at a red light, and he continued his barrage, he rolled the window down and said vulgarly, “Where’s your burqa? Go back to Saudi Arabia? Why aren’t you wearing your burqa?” For some reason he was fixating on that burqa that we apparently should have been wearing. I’m assuming he meant the face cover. Where was I going to start with this idiot? With me not being from Saudi Arabia? Or the fact that I’ve never worn a burqa? Or maybe start cursing back at him for being that prejudiced? For at least a few minutes I did nothing. Never have I been so belittled and disgusted. This sense of prejudice that’s apparently been simmering in him, only waiting to be unleashed at an unknowing victim. Honestly, at that time I felt this surge of violence run through me and all I wanted to do was take the black umbrella I was holding and beat his head with it.

The Muslims of today, because of an act of a few sick-minded individuals acting on beliefs that have no Islamic legitimacy, have been forced to endure this modern form of ‘tolerated racism’.

Moment of truth, what were we going to do? What would anyone do? Some may choose to stoop to his level, and start exchanging curse words, over a silly situation. For a moment there, I kept thinking it’s Ramadan. It’s Ramadan. It’s Ramadan. I don’t want to undo the fasting of the day for this ignorant racist... Oh, to hell with fasting, he deserves to be reprimanded somehow. As I struggled with my thoughts he went at it again, “Where’s your burqa?” And went on about us attempting to steal his cab. Breaking my silence and snapping out of the sense of utter shock, I shouted back, “WHAT?! If anything YOU stole OUR cab, not the other way around. We were waiting at that pavement before you even got there. So tell me, how is it that we stole your cab when we were there before you?” I was gearing-up for a heated debate over who deserved the cab. Turns out he felt it was his turn to keep silent. He rolled his window back up, and soon enough what felt like the longest red light in history turns to green and the cab rushes off. Did he roll his window up because he realised he was wrong or did he just run out of Islam-related insults to shout back? For a second there, I felt proud. I managed to contain myself, even though every inch of my body wanted to cause this man incomprehensible levels of suffering. Soon enough, I felt ashamed. Why didn’t I, at least verbally, teach this man a lesson in common courtesy so that

he won’t go on spreading those hurtful racial slurs at every Muslim he encounters? Realistically, I knew I couldn’t change much, what he thought seemed to be ingrained too deep for anyone to change. Though, I could’ve tried. For hours, actually days, I was just reliving that moment in my head. The truth of the matter is this man reminded me how accepted it was in today’s world to be prejudiced against Muslims. For actors in Hollywood, being anti-Black or anti-Semitic was career suicide, but being anti-Islamic was just a case of ‘freedom of speech’. Not that the bubble that is Hollywood represents the rest of the world in anyway, it does, in this situation, foreshadow a disturbing occurrence. The Muslims of today, because of an act of a few sick-minded individuals acting on beliefs that have no Islamic legitimacy, have been forced to endure this modern form of ‘tolerated racism’. The dilemma here is that on one side you have the freedom of speech claim where everyone is entitled to their own opinion, no matter how flawed and prejudiced it may be. On the other side, you have nations and millions of individuals being forced, sometimes on a daily basis, to endure constant abuse on making a personal choice to believe in one faith not another. So what triumphs here, freedom of speech or the freedom to choose? Answer? I have none. I still don’t even know if I took the right course of action or not. I don’t think I’ll ever know. Cowardly, I will continue to convince myself, like many do, that one day they’ll understand. One day, it won’t be acceptable to use excuses such as freedom of speech to abuse nations for the mistake of individuals. One day, I won’t have to be patted down like a fugitive when I go to the airport, just because of a piece of cloth. When will that day come? Perhaps not in my lifetime, but I’ll reassure myself with the hope that it will

Nofe Al-Suwaidi graduated from Carnegie Mellon University Qatar's business administration program this year. Nofe broadened her Carnegie Mellon experience by spending a semester at the main campus in Pittsburgh, where she took classes in business and film studies. In her spare time, Nofe is a painter and a writer. Her stories have appeared in Qatari Voices, a compilation of short stories published by Bloomsbury Qatar Foundation Publishing, and The Writer's Craft: Teaching Creative Writing in Qatar, which was adopted and published by Qatar's Ministry of Culture, Arts and Heritage. Nofe will be writing a regular column for Woman Today. 2011 September

aloud

thinking

Why I Don’t Drive By Cassey Oliveira

bumped into an old friend of mine recently. Before parting she enquired, “Do you drive?” and I nodded in the negative. “Thank God you don’t! Have you seen people drive here? They are crazy!” she said with a clear hint of frustration. Now that was unlike the usual, “Oh! You don’t drive! You should.” comments that I often get to hear. And why I should comes with a whole lot of reasoning. It’s fun, say some. The car approaching from the side lanes, 4x4s cutting you off at roundabouts, three-lane roads turning into racing grounds or a truck with an incredibly long trailer keeping you company (which happens most of the time)...is this the “fun” they talk about? It’s all about control, some say. Now there are certain privileges that one can’t enjoy sit-

September 2011

ting in the driver’s seat - catch a wink after a long, tiring day; look into the eye of your copassenger for long while having an animated conversation, sit cross-legged or lie down, lick an ice cream that’s melting away, rotate your head a 360 degree to watch a fancy car speeding away in the opposite lane, simply stare out of the window ... again, who’s taking control of whom here? You learn a skill...But at what expense? For me, attending daily driving lessons, an hour long, for three months, to then face a dreadful driving test, which in itself is a herculean task, completely puts me off? I recall recounting my experience of how I hurt my knee while sitting in a bumper car to a colleague of mine. “There, your first brush with driving,” she remarked. Lastly, you become independent. This I agree. It’s not very enjoyable having to wait after work hours, in an empty office for your

‘private’ driver to pick you up. Also, heading anywhere in the city is at the convenience of the one driving you up there. (I have eight ‘private’ drivers on my contact list.) It’s not unusual to have ladies driving in Qatar and to see them sit pretty in SUVs and 4x4s does manage to arouse in me a desire to drive one too. But most of all, working on an issue about cars put forward the lost opportunities of test-driving an Audi, Porsche, Lexus and the likes, and more importantly being photographed driving one. Truth be told, I would like to drive a car someday. Hands on the control – it must be one helluva feeling, right? Still there’s something ominous about driving that has kept me away from a driving license ever since I turned legally eligible for one. Maybe it’s me just being lazy to learn or reluctant to face my fears; maybe it’s both...