Qatar hosts a World Cup for the ages 06
Qatar’s stunning FIFA World Cup ends in glory for Messi and Argentina 10
FIFA World Cup history 12
FIFA World Cup logos 16
FIFA President, CONMEBOL join Argentina World Cup winners in celebrating Diego Maradona 20
Stephanie Frappart: A giant leap for womankind on a football pitch 22
Thrilled Qatar’s hospitality wows World Cup visitors 26
The world’s biggest fashion show 28 “We’re confident the visitors will come back for more” 32
A new Avatar is here 36
Page turners of 2022 37
“Absolute enjoyment has made it all possible” 42
‘Tis the season to be jolly at Four Seasons Hotel Doha 44
Culinary Delights Galore 46 Ringing in the New Year 48 Habanos is back! 51
New York Steakhouse’s Big Apple Brunch 52
FTB: A bigger, better deal 53
Fit 54
STAYCATION
A dream that’s real! 58
TRAVEL BUG
Warming up to Iceland 60
Qatar National Day: A day of joy for citizens and residents alike 38 Sheraton celebrates QND 50
"World Cup in Qatar has been the best ever"
—FIFA President Infantino
The team behind the mesmerising show
The Cup brimmeth over
Colour me beautiful
Phew! It seemed like ages to get to the World Cup action right here, right now, and to think, it’s already past us! But what a journey. It was a breath-taking ride while it lasted. By most counts, Qatar awed the world with its stunningly, seamlessly, spectacular organisation of the greatest show on earth.
The fare was relentless on and off the field as millions of spectators enjoyed the warm hospitality of a nation both proud of its roots and humble to a fault in its welcome. The smart facilitation in making their guests’ stay pleasant and convenient was an experience of a lifetime as many vouched. For instance, never before in history were fans able to watch more than a single encounter with such freedom and alacrity: free electronic buses ferrying them in time from one stadium to another!
Fittingly, many records tumbled whilst new ones were created. From Saudis humbling Argentina to Morocco making pygmies out of giants not to say, the edge-of-the-seat penalty shootouts offered a spectacle beyond the imagination of fans who couldn’t have enough of it.
Off the field, too, Qatar made a bold statement on the global stage as a ‘soft power’ to reckon with, laying bare much of the unfounded criticism cooked up by its jealous detractors in the run-up.
On our front, QH reviews the action in all the rich flavours on its pages. We also take the opportunity to mark a double celebration thanks to the World Cup final having coincided this year with the Qatar National Day. Plus all the regular features to keep you agog for a December to remember!
December 2022 World Cup Special Edition
Managing Editors
Azqa Haroon Manu Prmar
Copy Editor
Sidra Bilal Art Director Asad Chughtai Digital Media Coordinator Riya Dhakan
Distributions Manager Rabshan Malik Office Administrator Glenda Sampang
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Qatar Happening (QH) is published 12 times a year by The Art of Business, Doha, Qatar, an associate of Ahmed Hassan Bilal Group. The information contained in Qatar Happening is correct at the time of printing. Details may change at any time without liability on the part of The Art of Business. Readers are advised to confirm details with the event organizers.
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Fans arrived in Qatar expecting to watch quality football. In return, they not only watched high octane football for a month at the best of stadiums, they also got to see the real side of Qatari hospitality and how rich the Middle Eastern culture really is. Qatar threw the best ever World Cup party, according to FIFA President Gianni Infantino
QATAR’S Amir His Highness Sheikh Tamim Bin Hamad Al Thani waving the Saudi Arabian flag when their team stunningly beat Argentina 2-1 in their opening clash on November 22, 2022 at a packed Lusail Stadium was a freeze frame that symbolized friendship, honour and common love of football between the two neighbouring countries.
When tens of thousands of nonArgentine Messi fans – sporting the popular number 10 jerseys – converged at the eight FIFA World Cup 2022 venues and Fan Zones set up across the country, it was another symbolic gesture that the game’s showpiece tournament in Qatar was bringing the world together. The same frenzy was witnessed on the streets, at the shopping malls and on buses and trains throughout the tournament.
For England players and fans, the trophy didn’t come home but a stray cat did. Defenders Kyle Walker and John Stones – both of them featured in the 2-1 loss to France in the quarter-finals – adopted a stray cat they found at their training base in Al Wakrah. Stones and Walker named the cat Dave who is going through veterinary clinic tests and vaccinations before it spends four months in quarantine.
On the pitch, Lionel Messi, 35, doing his magic for Argentina and World Cup hero Kylian Mbappe managing another wonderful event for France exhibited football of the highest order. Messi – the football icon of our times – and 23-yearold Mbappe – with the world at his feet – made sure more than a million ticket holders were happy that the money spent to come to Qatar was worth the effort.
Frenchwoman Stephanie Frappart made history when she headed an allwoman referee team for the Germany vs Costa Rica clash during the group stage matches at Al Bayt Stadium. It was the first time that FIFA put together a women's team to headline a FIFA World Cup match to rousing cheer from the fans during Germany's 4-2 win on December 1.
Two days before the final between Argentina and France, FIFA President Gianni Infantino thanked the FIFA World
Cup Qatar 2022 volunteers, describing them as the "heart and soul" of the tournament. The FIFA President was speaking at the Volunteer Celebration Event, held at the FIFA Fan Festival on Doha's famous Corniche.
"You are the best volunteers ever for the best World Cup ever, thank you very much from the bottom of my heart, from all of those who love football, to all of you. You are fantastic," said the FIFA President, speaking from the FIFA Fan Festival stage. Infantino said that 400,000 people had initially applied to be FIFA World Cup volunteers and that only 20,000 were selected.
"Congratulations. You are the heart and soul of the World Cup and, most importantly, you are the face and the smile of the World Cup. You are the first person that people see when they come to this fantastic World Cup, and the last person they see when they leave. Your smile is making this World Cup what it is, which is the best ever."
You are the best volunteers ever for the best World Cup ever, thank you very much from the bottom of my heart, from all of those who love football, to all of you. You are fantastic,
FIFA President Gianni Infantino
"It's been phenomenal, it's been historical. You are a part of it, you are a part of history like nothing else," HE Hassan Al Thawadi, Secretary General of the Supreme Committee for Delivery & Legacy, said at the same event. "Each one of you has planted a seed in the hearts and minds of people. You dedicated time, you dedicated effort, you dedicated sweat and tears." He added: "Every single one of you has made history."
Volunteers at FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 were heart of the tournament's operations, providing support across a wide variety of areas in both official and non-official sites such as stadiums, training sites, airports, fan zones, hotels and the public transportation network. Away from the field, there was plenty of talk that centred around how Qatar emerged as wonderful hosts to break barriers of negativity. Prior to the start of the tournament, there was an obvious agenda-driven media blitz from the west to portray a negative image of a Muslim country hosting the FIFA World Cup for the first time in the tournament’s 92-year history. Whether it was the ban on premium beverages sales at match venues or organisers urging fans to respect the laws of the country, the western media were rightfully given a reminder that Qatar hosting the FIFA World Cup was indeed a sport event that brought cheer and broke down barriers of sorts.
In one instance, veteran British media personality Piers Morgan slammed those criticizing Qatar’s decision to
HE Hassan Al Thawadi, Secretary General of the Supreme Committee for Delivery & Legacy
ban premium beverages sales at World Cup venues. The 57-year-old in a candid video chat – recorded during the 32-team tournament - said the West was unequivocally wrong to portray a negative image of Qatar where familyoriented communities thrive with common denominator being mutual respect, honour and close social bonding.
“For the past two weeks, there's been a negative narrative about this World Cup, and I have to say mostly from England. Here in Doha, reality feels very different. I have been a here for a few days now and found a thriving, cosmopolitan, sports-mad city and a stunning vantage point for the tournament (which was) played out in magnificent, purposeful stadiums that filled up with more every game,” Piers, a former journalist with the CNN and News of the World, said. “From here in Qatar the tournament bears no resemblance to all the doom-mongering headlines back home (in England),” Morgan went on. “Fans across the world are mingling happily. There's no sign of intoxicantfilled scenes of our own Euro finals at Wembley,” Morgan, who has more than 8 million followers on Twitter, explained in his video talk.
It's been phenomenal, it's been historical. You are a part of it, you are a part of history like nothing else, Every single one of you has made history.
The first FIFA World Cup in the Middle East and Arab world reached a magnificent conclusion on Sunday 18 December with Argentina lifting the trophy for the third time after a dramatic final at Lusail Stadium in Qatar.
In front of a capacity crowd of 88,966, Argentina won 4-2 on penalties after a mesmerising match ended 3-3 after extra-time. Lionel Messi scored the opening goal in the first half with a penalty before Angel Di Maria doubled the advantage soon after following a sweeping counter-attack.
Late in the game, Kylian Mbappe hauled France level with two goals — the first a penalty — to force extra-time and give Les Bleus momentum.
Messi looked to have won the match when he forced the ball home after 108 minutes but Mpabbe completed his hat-trick with a second penalty soon after to force a shoot-out.
Argentina were in control of the shoot-out throughout and completed victory with Gonzalo Montiel’s winning spot-kick. It was the first time a final ended 3-3 and contained the second World Cup final hat-trick in history. The tournament set a record for the number of goals with 172.
"Qatar is also a significant investor in many aspects of UK life. For example, it gives us 25 percent of our gas. Which is food for thought, is it not?,” Morgan said to his viewers.
“This tournament has brought together the Middle East as well. Two years ago, Qatar was under a blockade led by Saudi Arabia, Bahrain and the UAE. Now fans are pouring in from these countries to enjoy the football. Saudi's Crown Prince was at the opening ceremony. The Amir of Qatar even waved the Saudi flag during their stunning win over Argentina. There's no denying that this region - the Middle East - has long deserved its World Cup. And there's no denying and I can tell you what most people are thinking that Qatar are putting on a pretty good show,” concluded Morgan.
After the World Cup kicked off with a game involving hosts Qatar and Ecuador, retired England football star John Barnes put his weight behind Qatar for 'inviting everybody' to enjoy the game's showpiece tournament being held in the Muslim world for the first time.
Answering a question during the popular 'Good Morning Britain' show, Barnes - 59 - urged the football fans to respect the laws in Qatar. Barnes was inducted into English Football of Fame in 2005.
"What the Qatari World Cup is doing is inviting everybody to come and be just respectful about the culture, our religion and our laws," Barnes said in the programe that was broadcast during the World Cup which was held from Nov 20 to Dec 18, 2022.
Qatar celebrates successful delivery of the most compact, accessible and family-friendly FIFA World Cup in history
Ahead of Sunday’s final, a stunning closing ceremony was held featuring a raft of stars, including Dana, Davido, Aisha, Manal, Balqees, Rahma, RedOne, Ozuma, Gims and Nora. A host of songs from the tournament’s Official Soundtrack were performed while 32 flying orbs paid tribute to each participating nation.
The final was the 64th match of the tournament, which got underway at Al Bayt Stadium on 20 November. More than 3.4 million tickets were sold for the matches, which were held at eight state-of-the-art stadiums, all located within an hour’s journey time of central Doha.
Qatar hosted the most compact edition of the FIFA World Cup in modern history, with fans revelling in the opportunity to attend more than one match a day during the early stages of the tournament. During the 29 days, Qatar welcomed more than 1.4 million fans to the country.
While fans enjoyed exciting football on the pitch, Qatar hosted a vast number of entertainment activations across the country, including the FIFA Fan Festival™ at Al Bidda Park, which welcomed more than 1.8 million visitors, and the Corniche Activation. The tourist attractions all provided an opportunity for fans to celebrate their shared love of football in what proved a beautiful exchange of cultures from across the globe.
H.E. Hassan Al Thawadi, Secretary General, Supreme Committee for Delivery & Legacy (SC), and Chairman, FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 LLC (Q22), said: “Qatar is incredibly proud to have hosted a landmark and unforgettable edition of the FIFA World Cup. This tournament has inspired billions
of people across the Middle East, Arab world and globally. Through football, we have bridged the gap between East and West and showcased the very best of our people and culture. The social, cultural, economic and environmental benefits of hosting this magnificent tournament will be felt for decades to come.”
Eng. Yasir Al Jamal, Director General, SC, said: “It has been an incredible journey – not just the last 29 days – but the entire 12 years leading up to the tournament. Back in 2010, we told the world to ‘Expect Amazing’ and we have delivered in spectacular fashion. Thanks to outstanding planning and collaboration with our trusted countrywide and international stakeholders, we have delivered an exciting fan experience, smooth transport operations and the most accessible FIFA World Cup in history. I pay tribute to all our dedicated staff and trusted partners for always going the extra mile and delivering a truly unique edition of the FIFA World Cup.”
Nasser Al Khater, CEO, Q22, said: “When fans across the globe look back on Qatar 2022, they will remember exciting action on the pitch, fantastic stadiums and a memorable fan experience. We delivered our mission to host a joyous celebration of the most popular sport on the planet – one where fans united through their shared passion for football. We are proud to have hosted the most compact, innovative and family-friendly FIFA World Cup ever – one that will deliver a sustainable legacy for communities in Qatar, across the region and globally. This tournament has set a benchmark for future mega events – and everyone who played a key role over the past 12 years should be very proud of their contribution.”
Barnes also said overseas ticket holders in Qatar overdid it with their Crusaders outfits some fans were shown to be wearing but were asked to change before entering match venues in the first week of the FIFA World Cup.
"Look at the Crusader outfit debate - you know how Crusaders are viewed in that part of the world. It is very similar if somebody comes to our matches wearing a Nazi uniform," Barne said with a smile. "Football can't change people's perspective. Life changes your perspective," Barnes, the former Liverpool star, went on.
All in all, 64 matches played at some of the most beautiful stadiums in Qatar, with better attendances than Russia 2018, and greater revenue generation for FIFA, the World Cup in Qatar was clearly an event for the ages. n
The FIFA World Cup is the most prestigious football competition in the world. Played every four years, the World Cup hosts the top 32 national teams in a month-long tournament. The full list of World Cup winners is below.
The state-of-the-art Metro, the new hotels that have come up in the last few years, the stunning roadworks spread around Qatar, the expansion of the Hamad International Airport and the completion of the eight World Cup venues, FIFA President Gianni Infantino has seen it all. The Swiss-Italian had nothing but praise for World Cup hosts Qatar
Gianni Infantino, the FIFA President, has spent more than six weeks in Qatar spread over November and December, meeting with foreign and domestic press and watching World Cup matches in person. In between he was also seen playing football with past legends of the sport. Prior to engaging with international and host media on November 19, 2022 — when he spoke for more than an hour and a half detailing how Qatar prepared to host a memorable World Cup — Infantino was a frequent visitor to Doha to see first-hand the massive development projects undertaken by Qatar.
The development works reported at a staggering $220 billion started soon after Qatar won the World Cup bid race in December 2010 but the real acceleration came after 2015. Since assuming power as FIFA President the same year, Infantino has been present in person to witness the inauguration of World Cup venues like the Khalifa International Stadium in 2017, Al Janoub Stadium, in 2019 and Ahmad Bin Ali Stadium and Al Thumama Stadium both in 2021. He was also present at the two editions of FIFA Club World Cup held in Qatar (2018 and 2019) where he also championed the hosting of the
inaugural FIFA Arab Cup, a preparatory event staged last year across the venues used at the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022.
Leading the show from the front, the FIFA boss has himself seen the gigantic efforts made by Qatar to put together 'the best ever World Cup'. "Football really unites the world. Football has this magic, this special feature that when the ball rolls, people come together. They come in a joyful atmosphere. I have to admit that before the World Cup, we were worried about having so many fans from so many countries, at the same time, in the same place. This does not happen in a normal World Cup," Infantino said. "In a normal World Cup, you have in one city, fans of two countries, not more. Here, you had 32 countries plus all (the) other fans from the world who came to enjoy the World Cup together in the same place. I was saying this some years that I really believed that this World Cup could contribute, on one side for this part of the world, for the Gulf, for Qatar, for the Middle East, to showcase itself, to show to the world how hospitable (it is) and what a rich culture they have. But also for the rest of the world to come here and to witness the hospitality, to witness a new culture, to (get to) know each other better, and that’s exactly what’s
happened," he added. "This blend of cultures which happens in a World Cup is something which is truly, truly unique. And everyone who was here, but also those who were watching from home and could feel this atmosphere, realised that something really special was going on at this World Cup," he said.
“I have seen all the matches, indeed, and put very simply and very clearly, this has been the best World Cup ever. So it’s very promising for the future World Cup editions. The matches have been of great, great quality in beautiful stadiums - we knew that already," Infantino said. "The fan attendance was incredible. Recordbreaking figures on TV which is really incredible. Two and a half million people in the streets of Doha and a few hundred thousand every day in the stadiums, all together, cheering together, supporting their teams, fantastic atmosphere, great goals, incredible excitement, surprises, small teams beating big teams," he added.
"Well, there are no more small teams and no more big teams. The playing level was very, very equal. For the first time as well, national teams from all continents going to the knock-out phase, for the first time in history, was interesting. This showed that football has really become truly global. Well, of course, the World Cup concluded as it had started — as a fantastic success. When it comes to stadium attendances, the stadiums were soldout, full practically at every match. The fan festivals, the different fan zones, were also very crowded with people celebrating and enjoying (themselves). And at the end (of the day), we (FIFA) simply wanted to give some joy and some smiles to people all over the world.
"That’s what football is about, that’s what the World Cup is about, and that’s what happened until the end. We saw great action on the field, which, finally, is the most important part of what you do, some of the biggest stars performing very well… but the memories of, I don’t know, the Mexican fans or the American fans or the Saudi fans. Not to (forget)
about Argentina, Brazil, the Iranians, everyone. The Moroccans, who were really cheering (on) their team, the Tunisians… I mean, I can just name… The Senegalese… I could name them all, probably.
"We saw a fantastic conclusion of this World Cup," Infantino concluded. n
We take a look at the history of FIFA World Cup logos of all editions held from 1930 to 2022
Making light of the manufactured propaganda of some in the West, Qatar mesmerised the world with a stunning opening ceremony last month as it finally put a 12-year wait behind it to kick-start the 2022 FIFA World Cup. The electric atmosphere was enough to give the spectators at hand goose bumps and billions of fans around the world a sight to behold.
For the team behind the show at Al Bayt Stadium, it was the culmination of months of planning, rehearsals and hard work, according to a top Supreme
Committee for Delivery & Legacy (SC) official.
“It was a dream seeing everything come together so beautifully,” said Shaikha al-Thani, executive director, SC. “Our vision was to celebrate different cultures while showcasing Qatari heritage. It was important to pay tribute to what this tournament set out to achieve in the very beginning – which was to bring people together and break down social barriers.”
More than 400 artists took part in the show, narrated by Academy Award winner Morgan Freeman and featured
K-Pop sensation Jung Kook of Korean supergroup BTS. A host of special guests from Qatar also took part in the ceremony, including Ghanim al-Muftah, Dana and Fahad al-Kubaisi, plus 300 tournament volunteers.
The ceremony centred on two suspended bridges in the middle of the pitch to encompass the idea of bridging distances, and began with a cinematic video experience. Qatar and the wider world were explored through the eyes of a whale shark – a native creature that has been a symbolic compass for navigators throughout history.
The eight-act narration culminated with giant jerseys from all 32 participating nations, every mascot in FIFA World Cup history, including the Qatar 2022 version, La’eeb, and a huge inflatable emblem. Conceived as a joyous and contemporary one-of-a-kind spectacle with an important unifying message, the ceremony was produced by Executive artistic director, Ahmed al-Baker, CEO of Katara Studios, and artistic director, Anghela Alo.
“It was a beautiful show put together by beautiful people,” said Jenni-Lee Van Gelder, the SC’s director of ceremonies.
“Celebrating different cultures through football is what makes the World Cup special – and with the tournament coming to this part of the world for the first time, we wanted to take the opportunity to deliver something truly special.”
“What made this experience so wonderful is the fact we brought the entire world together to deliver a world-class opening ceremony,” added Van Gelder, who previously worked on similar ceremonies for the Sydney Olympics and Rugby World Cup.
For Nada al-Marrikhi, ceremonies operations senior officer, one of the most rewarding aspects of working on the project was managing a cast that embodied the spirit of the performance. “Working day in, day out with artists
from around the world to celebrate this momentous occasion was such a valuable experience. No matter where people were from, they wholeheartedly believe in the power of football to unite the world and were eager to be part of the ceremony,” said al-Marrikhi.
“I am extremely proud of the team,” added al-Thani, who has spent a decade working for the SC. “We were able to create something magical that celebrated the entire world, while showcasing the depth and beauty of our culture. The ceremony proved to the world that Qatar is capable of organising mega sporting events while setting new standards for creativity and brilliance.” n
The Qatar 2022 opening ceremony is available to view on FIFA+ platforms.
Members of Argentina's 1978 and 1986 FIFA World Cup winning teams took part in a tribute conducted in Doha. Maradona, who guided Argentina to their second World Cup win, passed away on 25 November, 2020.
FIFA
FIFA President Gianni Infantino joined CONMEBOL, its President Alejandro Domínguez and members of Argentina's two FIFA World Cup winning teams in Doha in paying tribute to Diego Maradona on the second anniversary of the legendary player's passing. He also suggested that, in future FIFA World Cup tournaments, a day be set aside to celebrate Diego Maradona's achievements.
The event was organised by CONMEBOL at its dedicated complex in central Doha, where it has also planted a symbolic tree called the Tree of Dreams. The Argentina champions included Sergio Batista, Jorge Valdano, Oscar Ruggeri, Jorge Burruchaga, Ricardo Bochini, Nery Pumpido, Ricardo Giusti and Héctor Enrique, who were Maradona's team mates in 1986, and Ubaldo Fillol, Alberto Tarantini, Ricardo Villa, Daniel Bertoni, Omar Larrosa and Mario Kempes from 1978. "Diego is immortal, Diego is with us," said the FIFA President.
"We should not only pay tribute, but also celebrate Diego. In fact, I would like that
from now on, in every World Cup, we should have a day to celebrate Diego Armando Maradona. Because, what this man did to make people fall in love with football, with our sport........very, very few, perhaps nobody else, did what he did."
Gianni Infantino recalled that he had brought Diego Maradona closer to FIFA. "I am very happy and proud that after our arrival in football, with Alejandro (Dominguez) and ourselves, Diego came back to us again. He was with us in the World Cup in Russia, and I have had the honour of speaking to him personally, of meeting him sometimes, of creating a relationship of friendship." President Infantino said that Diego Maradona had a "sincerity and unique charisma."
"He used to say things, sometimes very simple, but with a huge impact," he recalled. Describing Diego Maradona as a great leader in Argentina and South America, he added: "We would’ve liked to be here with Diego at this World Cup, all of us. But Diego is in all our hearts, and I would like to once again congratulate all those champions who are here to share this emotional moment. Long live Diego." n
President wants to dedicate one day in future World Cups to celebrate Maradona's achievements
When the diminutive and frail-looking Stephanie Frappart stood next to tall goalkeeper Manuel Neuer — the German football skipper — for a FIFA World Cup match on December 1, 2022, it was a sight never seen on a football pitch of this magnitude.
Standing just 1.64m (5'3") tall, Stephanie was dwarfed by Neuer — who is 1.93m or 6'3" in height — when the pre-match picture was snapped.
Stephanie may have looked small but she emerged a giant as she became the first woman to officiate in a FIFA World Cup men’s match.
The 38-year-old Frappart was joined by Neuza Back of Brazil and Karen Diaz of Mexico as an all-female group took charge of Germany's match against Costa Rica. Germany won 4-2 but it was Stephanie who won hearts tackling a FIFA World Cup match in men's football. A week earlier she was the fourth official during the Poland vs Mexico clash at Stadium 974.
Stephanie took charge of two matches in the qualifiers for the tournament, but her presence at the World Cup itself is a significant moment. The Frenchwoman was the fourth official in the 0-0 draw between Mexico and Poland on the opening matchday in Group C, becoming the first woman to occupy the role at a men’s FIFA World Cup.
The French referee was quite the star of the Germany-Costa Rica game
Stephanie is no stranger to the biggest stage in the game, having officiated in six matches at the last two FIFA Women’s World Cup™ competitions –Canada 2015 and France 2019. When asked about her pride at representing France as a FIFA World Cup referee, Stephanie said: "I felt enormous emotion because it wasn’t particularly expected that I would be picked. So, (I feel) a lot of pride, a lot of honour, to represent France at the World Cup."
On keeping emotions in check to ensure optimal performance on the pitch, Stephanie said before the encounter: "I think I’ll have everything that’s around me in mind, and the aim will still be the same, that is the referee according to the performance on the pitch. So, I’m really going to head into this with enormous emotion, but you have to channel that because clearly the important thing is the pitch."
Stephanie continued: "The first thing will be all the emotions of returning to the World Cup stadium, packed with a large crowd and plenty of expectations. But after that, I’ll be focused on the pitch because we need to make the correct decisions and perform well by concentrating on the primary objective on the pitch."
When asked how she prepared for a big game like the Germany-Costa Rica clash, Stephanie said: "You obviously know that there'll be more of a spotlight on the game, and you’ll feel a bit of pressure due to the high stakes involved. But it’s still a football match, and it’s part of a competition that I’ve spent a long time preparing for. You don’t leave anything to chance – you constantly work on technical and tactical aspects so that you’re ready for this type of encounter."
Stephanie said no game was easy to officiate: "Each team has a style of
play, their own tactics, and players with different attributes – that’s what makes a World Cup like this one so great. You prepare for that; that’s what you expect. Prior to the semi-finals, two coaches came to us to explain how the teams were set up and how they played.
“The goal of this was to enable us to adapt to them better and to be in the right place at the right time, so that we can make the best possible decision when we referee a match involving such-and-such a team."
Costa Rica manager Luis Fernando Suarez, 62, said: "I am a great admirer of everything women have conquered and I like the fact they want to keep on conquering things. This is another step forward. This speaks volumes for this woman, of her commitment, especially in this sport which is a very sexist one. It's very difficult to reach the point that she has reached, I think it's good for football and a positive step for football, to show that it's opening up for everyone.”
Costa Rica's midfielder Celso Borges, appearing in his third World Cup, said: "I think it's great and it's a huge achievement for women globally. If she is there it's because she has all the capabilities to perform on this stage. She had done it before in big matches so I didn't see why it would have been
an exception. I just hoped she had a good match and that we could help her make it an easy match."
Germany manager Hansi Flick told reporters prior to his team's match against Costa Rica: "She deserves to be here based on her performance. I hope she is equally looking forward to the game just like we are, and I hope she can deliver a good performance."
Germany defender Lukas Klostermann wanted more of the same in future World Cup matches: "This is the most normal thing in the game. I have never looked prior to the game if it is a man or a woman that will be with the whistle, and I hope it will remain a normality." Neither did Frappert or her colleagues, who all made it count.
Pierluigi Collina, the FIFA chief of referees committee, said. “FIFA will continue to champion the development of female refereeing and I’m confident that the appointment of female match officials to men’s games will be absolutely commonplace in the future.”
Last year, Stephanie emerged as the top football personality in French football, edging Kylian Mbappe to the top spot in a list of 50 that also included Didier Deschamps, Zinedine Zidane, Antoine Griezmann, Olivier Giroud and Karim Benzema. n
The FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 was perhaps, the most inclusive edition recorded in history. Top government officials, diplomats, celebrities and foreign journalists had these conclusions to make about the Greatest Show on Earth that pitchforked the country to the centre of the football universe for four weeks.
Uniting people, breaking down social barriers and bridging the gap between East and West are all part of the legacy of staging the first FIFA World Cup in the Middle East and Arab world
HE Hassan al-Thawadi, Secretary General, SC, and Chairman, FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022
Impressive organisation of World Cup is a source of pride for all Arab countries
Dr Hanafi Jabali, Egyptian Speaker
Andriy
(World Cup 2022) is the most sensational edition I think we have ever had
Lord Dominic Johnson, UK Minister of State for Investment
The legacy of the World Cup 2022 will forever be enshrined in Qatar's history
Kuzmenko, Ukrainian ambassador to Qatar
Qatar feels very proud for being able to bring all the Arabs back together, and this is the beauty and the magic of the game itself, how it brings people from different backgrounds, Arabs and non-Arabs, everyone from everywhere, together
HE the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Mohamed bin Abdulrahman al-Thani
The splendour of facilities and infrastructure, and the ease of movement between stadiums and cities make this Arab-Qatari edition the best World Cup in the 92-year-old history of this tournament
Nayef Saleh al-Bakri, Yemeni Minister of Youth and Sport
Qatar’s World Cup organisation is the best I have ever seen. The stadiums are stunning and unique, the infrastructure excellent, and the media centres and team training pitches spectacular and accessible
Qatar’s World Cup has been a unique experience for the world, one which bridged the gap and promoted unity and tolerance
Dana Alfardan, Qatari composer, songwriter and symphonic artist
Being able to witness it all happen is a dream come true Uganda Twegate Dance Troupe
Qatar is a small country, but huge with its facilities, landmarks, and dazzling compact unique stadiums
Qatar made a bold statement of its hospitality, hosting capability and the sophistication and seamless organisation right from from November 2022 when the ball was set rolling for the Greatest Show on Earth to the grand finale on December 18, which coincided with the Qatar National Day at the Lusail Stadium.
But away from all the action on the field, the country opened its arms to millions of foreign visitors, who had primarily come to watch the scintillating action but were also keen on getting the sights and sounds to make the most of their stay.
Qatar proved to be an oasis of safety, security and generosity to fans who held forth during interviews with QH that they were highly impressed by the country’s progress, and in particular, with its sophisticated urban development, modern roads and infrastructure. What further pleasantly surprised them was a smooth transport system that ferried them across stadiums from one point to another.
Amongst these were many first-timers who admitted to being overwhelmed by what they say. They took to the local warmth and hospitality like a duck to water, visiting tourist and heritage sites, including multi-dimensional museums. Many of these foreign tourists vowed to return to Qatar thanks to their unique experiences where almost everyone praised the safe and secure environment in which they were able to go to — and return from — the stadiums but also generally everywhere the visit took them. n
Many first timers tell QH they will return to the country for more
Qatar Fashion United by CR Runway showcased over 150 global designers and performances on the eve of the World Cup final
There could have been no better time to celebrate fashion and football than now, in the final days of the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022, and I am so proud of all we have achieved — especially the Qatari and regional designers whose creativity and talent will lead the way for the future of fashion in the region.
In a celebration of fashion, music and culture, Qatar Fashion United
By CR Runway, presented by Qatar Creates and CR Runway, showcased over 150 designers from six continents and 50 countries, featuring renowned names in fashion and regional and international music superstars. The mammoth show was held in front of a sell-out crowd of more than 20,000 spectators at Ras Abu Aboud 974 Stadium on December 16, two days before the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 finals.
Conceived by Qatar Museums
Chairperson, Her Excellency Sheikha Mayassa bint Hamad Al Thani, curated by French editor and visionary stylist, Carine Roitfeld, and directed by CR Runway CEO, Vladimir Restoin Roitfeld, Qatar Fashion United by CR Runway presented a dazzling array of looks from both established and up-and-coming designers. Some 21 Qatar-based brands presented by M7 – Qatar’s creative hub for entrepreneurship in fashion, design, and technology – participated in the event.
Speaking on the sidelines of the event, HE Sheikha Mayassa said: “Qatar Fashion United by CR Runway celebrated music, fashion, art and architecture in the unique 974 stadium. An accumulation of years of hard work, QFU brought together people from all corners of the world, demonstrating the true power of culture — bringing together disciplines of fashion, music, art, heritage and football to connect people and transcend borders. There could have been no better time to celebrate fashion and football than now, in the final days of the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022, and I am so proud of all we have achieved — especially the Qatari and regional designers whose creativity and talent will lead the way for the future of fashion in the region.”
All proceeds from the show will benefit Education Above All (EAA) Foundation, a not-for-profit organisation that provides educational opportunities to underserved children and youth, and empowers women to become active members of their communities. n
Hessa Al-Thani,
of
Qatar Tourism,
Qatar Tourism holds its own, but how do you see it in the light of the FIFA World Cup?
Qatar has steadily grown as a worldclass tourism destination, and while the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 offered an incredible opportunity to showcase Qatar to the world, our tourism strategy goes well beyond the mega sporting event.
With Qatar as an ideal destination for families, couples or solo travellers, offering a multitude of experiences from pristine beaches to iconic museums, premium shopping and stunning nature escapes, our strategy sees Qatar as the fastest growing tourism destination in the region by 2030, with the annual number of
visitors growing to six million by that time.
In addition, our strategy identifies six demand spaces which highlight the right cross between global travel needs and segmentation and the areas that Qatar can best cater and deliver to. These are: Sun, Sea and Sand; Active Holidays; Relax & Rejuvenate; Cultural Enthusiasts; Luxury City Breaks and Romantic Getaways.
As part of our strategy, we have identified 15 priority markets which have potential for point-to-point travel and which are more suited for stopover travel. We had an incredible pipeline of assets and offerings that provided visitors with a once-in-a-lifetime experience during the World Cup and beyond.
With eight stadia situated all around the county, there was plenty for visitors to see and do on match day, while those with more extended stays could plan to visit more distant attractions.
For instance, the World Cup final was staged at the Lusail stadium, a short stop away from one of the most exciting recent developments, Al Maha Island, which offered a full day of fun and adventure, from the rides of Lusail Winter Wonderland to the fine-dining offerings at Zuma or Tatel.
Not to miss were Qatar’s world-class museums and iconic galleries which are a key draw to international visitors. With art in public spaces, installed by renowned global artists such as
What plans were in place for visitors to make the most of the opportunity?
Head
Marketing and Planning department at
tells QH about what kept the World Cup visitors enthralled and the scope of tourism beyond the mega event
East-West/West-East by Richard Serra and situated in the vast Brouq Nature Reserve, Qatar boasts a dynamic art and cultural scene.
Visitors contemplate art not only housed within the rich collections of the museums, but also in the very structure and external facades of the buildings themselves. For instance, the National Museum of Qatar (NMoQ), designed by Jean Nouvel, is inspired by the desert rose and is a striking piece of work on the prominent Doha
Corniche. The Museum of Islamic Art (MIA), designed by I M Pei, masterfully combines Islamic architecture with 21st century innovation.
Wherever their interest lay, and however long the duration of their stay, there was something for everyone in Qatar. The Visit Qatar app was a ready reckoner to browse the many different itineraries and inspirational ideas suited for family holidays, romantic getaways, outdoor adventures and any other kind of holiday.
The cool weather in Qatar is the perfect time to enjoy the great outdoors. From nature retreats in the heart of the city to more remote escapes, there are many beautiful outdoor settings that fans enjoyed.
Recently opening its doors to the public is Fuwairit Kite Beach Resort, which sits at the northern tip of Qatar.
The wind and water conditions there are ideal for those who passionately take up kitesurfing, but the resort is also great for anyone looking to relax on the unspoiled sands of this tucked away gem. Right in the heart of Doha, we are also developing beautiful coastal attractions such as the West Bay North Beach which will see pedestrianised paths and 40,000 square metres of premium beachfront.
Qatar’s winter season makes for an incredible family holiday, with the
Given that the World Cup was being staged during the winter season, what did the visitors look most forward to including cruise tourism?
country’s many promenades, whether at the Doha Corniche, Katara Cultural Village or The Pearl-Qatar, creating a gorgeous setting where kids can run and play while mums and dads take in stunning architectural views or do a little bit of shopping on the side. For those visiting by sea, Doha Port offered the distinct advantage of being closely located to some of Qatar’s most
prominent attractions, such as Souq Waqif and Msheireb Downtown Doha. This year saw an exciting first for cruises in Qatar, as one of the mega cruise ships hosting football fans was inaugurated just days before the beginning of the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022. It then went on its maiden voyage from Doha (homeport), circling both the Arabian Gulf and Mediterranean Sea in a 10-day tour.
We believe that global football fans had a truly unique opportunity to visit, experience and enjoy a part of the world they may never have ventured to. We were thrilled to potentially offer fans their first taste of the region and we are certain that Qatar’s warm hospitality, rich culture and heritage gave visitors plenty of reasons to travel again to Qatar and see more of what it has to offer.
Visitors were able to move easily and efficiently around the country using the accessible and affordable public transportation system. Doha Metro is a state-of-the-art network that not only linked many of the stadia, but also took fans to some of the country’s most prominent cultural, leisure and shopping attractions.
In addition, the bus service, Metrolink, provided free shuttle rides across the city to metro station entrances. n
What was the most significant aspect of Qatar Tourism that made it a double bonanza for football fans?
What were the best transport options available to ferry fans to and from the
It is set more than a decade after the events of the first film. The much awaited Avatar: The Way of Water tells the story of the Sully family (Jake, Neytiri, and their kids), the trouble that follows them, the lengths they go to keep each other safe, the battles they fight to stay alive, and the tragedies they endure.
Academy Award nominee Antonio Banderas returns as the voice of the notorious PiB as he embarks on an epic journey into the Black Forest to find the mythical Wishing Star and restore his lost lives. But with only one life left, Puss will have to humble himself and ask for help from his former partner and nemesis: the captivating Kitty Soft Paws (Oscar nominee Salma Hayek).
In their quest, Puss and Kitty will be aided — against their better judgment — by a ratty, chatty, relentlessly cheerful mutt, Perro (Harvey Guillén). Together, the trio of heroes will have to stay one step ahead of Goldilocks (Oscar nominee Florence Pugh) and the Three Bears Crime Family, “Big” Jack Horner (John Mulaney) and terrifying bounty hunter, The Big Bad Wolf (Wagner Moura).
In The Apology, twenty years after the disappearance of her daughter, recovering alcoholic Darlene Hagen (Anna Gunn) is preparing to host her family’s Christmas celebration with her best friend Gretchen (Janeane Garofalo). Late Christmas Eve, Darlene’s estranged ex-brother-in-law, Jack (Linus Roache) arrives unannounced, bearing nostalgic gifts and a heavy secret. Soon, Darlene finds herself caught between reason and ruthless instinct. Trapped together by a dangerous storm, a battle of wits escalates to a violent game of revenge.
Empress Elisabeth of Austria is known for her beauty and fashion trends. But in 1877, she celebrates her 40th birthday and must fight to maintain her public image. With a future of only ceremonial duties in front of her, she rebels against her public image and comes up with a plan to protect her legacy.
Based on Michael Ausiello’s bestselling memoir
Spoiler Alert: The Hero Dies, the film is a heartwarming, funny and lifeaffirming story of how Michael and Kit’s relationship is transformed and deepened when one of them falls ill.
All’s fair in love and chemistry. It’s 1960s California and there are certain things that women just don’t do. When scientist Elizabeth Zott finds herself the host of a television cooking show, she kicks off a revolution that does more than just challenge the status quo. You will fall in love with the cast of characters in this debut novel that has already been picked up as an Apple TV+ series..
Former First Lady Michelle Obama shares practical wisdom and powerful strategies for staying hopeful and balanced in today's highly uncertain world. Drawing from her experiences as a mother, daughter, spouse, friend and First Lady, she shares the habits and principles she has developed to successfully adapt to change and overcome various obstacles — the earned wisdom that helps her continue to "become."
Jon Meacham, Pulitzer Prize-winning biographer, chronicles the life of Abraham Lincoln with his trademark journalist style that is both accessible and engaging. Charting how and why Lincoln confronted secession, threats to democracy and the tragedy of slavery to expand the possibilities of America, this book is unlike any previous Lincoln biography.
On January 6, 2021, as President Donald Trump pressured the vice-president to overturn the election, a mob erected a gallows on Capitol Hill and its members chanted “Hang Mike Pence!” as they rampaged through the halls of Congress. Pence refused to leave the Capitol, and once the riot was quelled, he reconvened Congress to complete the work of a peaceful transfer of power. So Help Me God is the chronicle of the events and people who forged Mike Pence’s character and led him to that historic moment."
Readers get the chance to learn how "the industry" really works, as Jennette describes what it's like as a child star, further fueling the narrative, of late, around how victimizing Hollywood can be. Jennette is direct, honest and hilarious, and despite it all, delivers an inspiring story of resilience and recovery."
atar National Day (QND), which falls on December 18, is a day of great joy and pride for Qataris. It is reflected in the festivities of the day beginning with the QND parade at the Corniche and later by scores of art and culture activities to reinforce the values of belonging. Fireworks lit up the night sky to conclude the day. But QND celebrations are not just for Qatari citizens alone. The vast majority of Qatar’s population is made up of expatriates who love this country just as much and take part in the festivities with a sense of belonging that is reminiscent of a second home. This year was special because it coincided with the spectacular hosting of the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022.
A few expatriates QH spoke to opened their hearts to reflect on the day and what it means to them.
I have deep love for Qatar. We celebrate QND like the nation itself; Qatar is a country that knows how to keep its rich traditions and history alive. QND is a significant part of how the country has thrived and grown. For us, Qatar is the world’s safest country where we have freedom to live our lives in the best possible way.
Definitely. I always take part in all festivities – all thanks to the government of Qatar which arranges so many activities for the residents. But above all, I love the QND parade held every year at Corniche. This year, with the FIFA World Cup in Qatar, approximately 4,500 small and big events took place throughout the country. These included concerts, activities related to art and culture, fireworks, musical shows, and many other performances showcasing the rich traditions of the country.
The year 2022 is more special than ever as Qatar hosted the FIFA World Cup, with the final played on the same day the country celebrates its National Day.
I feel so honoured and proud being a Qatar resident. The World Cup was the first to be held in the Arab and Muslim world. Watching so many expats enjoying freely, I believe Qatar hosted one of the best World Cup editions till date and am sure, the country will host more successful events in the future.
SAMAN J. Blogger Co-Founder
@hauteside_official
ELISABETE REISImage Consultant
Etiquette I Protocol coach
@glamyourimage
QND is quite special to us because we came to Qatar in 2006 and the National Day was decreed the next year by His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, who, as the Crown Prince was heir apparent at the time. It is very interesting for us to have been here since the beginning and witness all the improvements in how the event has been celebrated. It is really special to us.
Absolutely. It’s been home to us since 2006. Our daughter was born here and
our sons also grew up here so this is definitely home to all of us. We do take part in the festivities and we do like to watch the parade . We like to go to QND celebration parties wearing maroon.
It was special with a double celebration because it coincided with the World Cup final and we were very excited about it and hoping for an amazing final with Portugal lifting the Cup (Morocco beat Portugal in the quarter-final).
SHEHAR BANO RIZVI
Author of Virsa, an award-winning cook book, photographer @thepmpmom
Qatar is home away from home. All three of my kids were born here, our home is here, and hopefully, our entire lives too. This IS home. And yes of course, we do celebrate it! How do you relate to the day this year where it coincided with the World Cup?
My husband and I moved to Qatar back in 2004 right after our wedding. Qatar has a very special place in our hearts as we started our lives together in Doha. As expats, we love and celebrate the country that has given us a safe environment to build our lives and raise our kids.
We were here when Qatar won the bid for the FIFA World Cup in 2010, and are delighted to be here to witness it all happening! We feel that we have been a part of Qatar’s journey and feel very proud of the country we call home. Qatar has done a fabulous job at hosting the FIFA World Cup 2022. It has been epic so far. This QND was historic!
Living away from home, what is the significance of Qatar National Day for you as an
Living away from home, what is the significance of Qatar National Day for you as an expat?
Living away from home, what is the significance of Qatar National Day for you as an expat?
away from home but a place which gives stability, peace and safety. QND celebrations have always been something that all of us look forward to, dress up and be proud of. For me, the QND is a symbol of unity for all Qatari residents regardless of nationality.
With approximately, 90% of Qatari population made up of expats, Qatar has ensured that they feel as much at home as their citizens. For many residents, Qatar is not just home
Qatar is more than a second home; it is my home. My whole family, including my mom and siblings live here. I am one of the fortunate ones. I cannot think of another place to go and start my life. Qatari traditions – whether it is burning the Bukhoor or serving Gahwa has now become part of our lifestyle. We always dress up and show up on QND; I don’t visit the parade but do other activities with friends and workplace.
It was a double celebration. As Qatari residents, I truly feel Qatar is finally, on the international roadmap. Everyone knows Qatar and is surprised by how much the country has evolved. Many tourists come here with preconceived notions about Qatar, but are eventually blown over by the hospitality, flexibility, and the safety of the country. This year was special because not only did an Arab nation host the World Cup but did it successfully. Each and every Qatari resident contributed to it directly or indirectly. The country has been built by migrants who have been pivotal in its success. So for all of us, QND is not just another day but a mark of our very own success story!
AALIYA KH. Content Creator aaliya_halawallah
QND holds high significance for all of us and is celebrated with equal vigour and pride. "One Love" — the theme of this year's QND — aimed at unifying citizens and residents holds a very special place in my heart
Qatar is definitely home to me, ever more as my flying career took off here, I got promoted in world’s 5 star airlines, travelled and explored the world. Every time, I learned new things and met so many people from different walks of life that changed me as a person and my perspective in every way. I met my life partner here in Doha and went on to become mom as well. We definitely take part in the festivities as the culture, core values of loyalty, solidarity and pride is something we all have imbibed.
Qatar has made us incredibly proud of being the first Arab nation to hold a world event like FIFA World Cup. We have welcomed people from all over the world with open arms. Showcasing what we stand for, celebrating the QND with the world is an exhilarating and unique experience.
Living away from home, what is the significance of Qatar National Day for you as an expat?
Is Qatar second home to you? Do you take part in the festivities?
How do you relate to the day this year where it coincided with the World Cup?
Is Qatar second home to you? Do you take part in the festivities?
How do you relate to the day this year where it coincided with the World Cup?
You can literally call him a man for all seasons. But not even men of all seasons get to stay the course in one place for as long as Gordon MacKenzie has done. He has made Radisson Blu Hotel in Doha — formerly Ramada — all his own, soto-speak. He has been here since June 1989 till now — spread over two stints.
But it’s not as if the Radisson Blue GM has confined himself to Doha. His stellar career has seen MacKenzie serve in similar roles in Avari International Hotels, Dubai; Commodore Hotel, Beirut; Saudi Hotels and Resorts, Riyadh; Holiday Inn, Amman; Araak Hotel, Khartoum, Norfolk Gardens, Bradford; Hotel Management International, London; Saxon Inn Motor Hotels Harlow, Essex, apart from being Director Operations at Landmark International Hotels, London. But all of these stints are dwarfed by his building blocks in Doha. For a man who has seen the evolution of Radisson Blu from Ramada, there is of course much more to life than just his safe house in RB. He has seen Doha grow from mundane origins to becoming the cynosure of all eyes — as was evident in the just concluded FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022.
Excerpts from an interview:
As a destination, when we had the extension open in 2007 we decided after some time that not only because the World Cup would be held in 2022 but we also had the necessity to upgrade our brand and we changed to Radisson in July 2012. Now, it’s a decade since the sensible decision to become Radisson Blu.
Yes, I came here first in 1989 when the hotel was called Ramada and then we had this Gulf crisis in 1991-92 — those were difficult years — but immediately afterwards Sheikh Ghanem Bin Ali Al-Thani saw the need for expansion. That’s when we had the original West wing with the East wing still as the Ramada Plaza. Back then, we were the largest Ramada in the world with 583 rooms.
It's a very simple answer and that is –the absolute enjoyment of your job. The sheikh has empowered us and allows us to expand the operation as we feel or we think the market requires. And it’s so enjoyable to manage this particular unit because it allows us to turn our ambitious plans year after year after year to see the fruition of these plans to success.
Yes, we here in 1989 (and back then) it wasn’t the city that we see today. But it has been an absolute enjoyment to see the advancement of all the projects – the expansion of the city, the parks and stadiums etc. But most of all, the hospitality of Qataris themselves is what makes it unique. All of this has been a motivation and inspiration to stay in Qatar. It is absolutely exceptional.
Quite honestly, it is the absolute satisfaction of our achievements for both our guests and our staff and since we’ve been known over the last almost 30 years — as I have been here — as a community hotel, we’ve always supported the community and therefore, the community supports us.
aThree is very difficult. I can give you three score. First and foremost, it is being able to create the products of choice the sheikh has allowed us that the market wants to see in a property like this – the variety of our items and to be able to put a good and affordable menu. As I said, we’re a community hotel and we’re a sensibly priced hotel –very traditional hotel.
You have been associated with Radisson Blu since even before it was rebranded. Please briefly run us through your journey spanning over three decades…
What are the strengths and qualities that enables one to survive away from home and thrive this long?
What part of your job do you like most?
It would be fair to say that you have literally seen Qatar grow into the powerhouse it is today. What do you most like about the country?
Few people may be more qualified than you to give an opinion on how to keep clients satisfied and come back for more. Can you give us a count of three?
This festive season, Four Seasons Hotel Doha invites guests to feel the magic of the New Year with a host of exciting holiday experiences: from festive brunches, New Year’s Eve celebrations to roasted turkey spread and bespoke signature treatments, it promises an unforgettable end of year festivities.
December 24, 2022
Those looking to enjoy the holidays in signature Four Seasons style can join the Christmas Eve dinner at Elements restaurant where sensational seasonal dishes await on its sumptuous buffet and live stations, delivering all the festive cheer.
QAR 450 inclusive of soft beverages
QAR 695 inclusive of premium beverages
“La Cena Navideña”
Christmas Eve Dinner at Curiosa by Jean-Georges
Guests are invited to celebrate an unforgettable Christmas Eve celebration with “La Cena Navidena” dinner at Curiosa by Jean-Georges, featuring signature Latin and regional dishes.
QAR 450 - 6 course set menu including soft beverages
QAR 985 - 6 course set menu with grapes pairing
December 25, 2022
Four Seasons Hotel Doha has created a Grand Christmas Brunch offering with its decadent Festive buffet extending from Elements
restaurant, Le Deli Robuchon to Curiosa by Jean-Georges.
QAR 765 regular Christmas brunch with soft beverages
QAR 995 sparkling Christmas brunch with special beverages
QAR 383 kids Christmas brunch (5-12 years old)
December 31, 2022
New Year’s Eve Dinner at Elements
Elements invites guests to kick off the New Year with an unforgettable celebration where they can feast on a fabulous selection of gourmet dishes and drinks.
QAR 765 including soft beverages
QAR 995 including house beverages
QAR 1250 including special beverages and a glass of bubbly
“La Cena Del Año” New Year’s Eve Dinner at Curiosa
Guests can partake in a sumptuous New Year’s feast at Curiosa by Jean-Georges. The menu pays homage to Latin and globalinspired dishes helmed by Head Chef Edgar Hurtado.
QAR 700 - 7 course set menu including soft beverages
QAR 1100 - 7 course set menu including 3 glasses of sparkling grapes pairing
Nobu New Year’s Eve Dinner & Party
Nobu is showcasing again an exquisite end of year celebration with its extravagant 7 course set menu followed by a party at the rooftop overlooking the iconic Doha skyline.
QAR 700 per person – 7 course set menu
QAR 1100 per person – set menu with grapes and sake pairing
December 19, 2022 - January 6, 2023
Festive Afternoon Tea at Seasons Tea Lounge
Seasons Tea Lounge is the perfect setting to treat oneself this holiday season.
QAR 295 per set inclusive of a pot of Jing Tea
December 20, 2022 - January 8, 2023
Guests are welcome to take a moment to rejuvenate and unwind during the festive frenzy with a Crystalous Massage followed by a Jet Peel treatment at The Spa.
Available until January 6, 2023 Roasted Turkey to go
Four Seasons Hotel Doha brings a special seasonal magic with its delicious Turkey-To-Go spread
including all its condiments and trimmings along with a choice of Pecan or Pumpkin Pie to satisfy all cravings. QAR 180 per kg.
Order must be placed 72 hours prior to the pick-up date
Lovers of sweet desserts will have the opportunity to delight their senses with Chef Mohammad Saleem’s carefully chosen and crafted seasonal goodies including festive cakes, Yule log and homemade Panettone.
To make your festive reservation, please visit https: www.fourseasons.com/doha/ landing-pages/property/festive or WhatsApp the hotel at: +974 4494 8888 or email: reservations.doh@fourseasons.com
Doha’s favourite spot for getting together with family and friends. Choose IZU for an elegant experience that carries Chef Izu’s understated ethos of honest, simple and delicious food serving signature dishes this festive season. Highlights of the menu include Whole Roasted Lobster with Fennel, Kalamata Olives and Tomatoes, Slow-Cooked Beef Cheek with Truffle Mashed Potato and Beef Jus and for dessert a IZU’s Signature Passionfruit Cheesecake or Hazelnut Praline Chocolate Bûche De Noël.
DATE & TIMINGS: 19th to 31st December 2022
Dinner 7pm – 11pm (À la carte menu)
FIND IT: IZU Restaurant first floor, Mandarin Oriental CALL: 4008 8888
TIMINGS: 12:30pm – 3:30pm
CHRISTMAS DAY BRUNCH
PRICES:
1. Brunch inclusive of soft beverages QR 320
2. Brunch inclusive of selected beverages QR 450 3. Brunch inclusive of selected beverages & bubbly QR 490
4. Brunch for children 6 to 11 years QR 160
5. Brunch for children 3 to 5 years QR 110
FIND IT: Radisson Blu Hotel, Doha CALL: 4428 1555
Have yourself a Tiki festive season at Trader Vic’s Salwa with appetising Polynesian-fusioninspired dishes and refreshing tropical drinks while enjoying the live performance of our Latin band.
DATE & TIMINGS: 25th December
| From 1pm – 4pm
PRICES: QR 325 per person with soft drinks
QR 350 per person with house beverages
FIND IT: Hilton Salwa Beach Resort CALL: 4423 6370
Celebrate the most wonderful time of the year with a Middle Eastern inspired festive set menu to make your holidays extra vibrant.
DATE & TIMINGS: Friday 23rd – Friday 30th December | 5pm –12am
PRICE: QR 195 including soft beverages
FIND IT: Aqua Lounge | Level 8 |Marriott Marquis City Center Doha Hotel
CALL: 4419 5510 or WhatsApp +974 6643 6890.
Indulge in yuletide feasting with family and friends at an unforgettable Festive Brunch at Shanghai Club. There’s an impressive set menu, flavourful beverages and festive decor while you revel in the joyous atmosphere with our live DJ performance.
PRICES: QR 400 per person for family style set menu, including soft beverages
QR 540 per person for family style set menu, including unlimited international beverages
DATE & TIMINGS: 23rd December | 12pm – 3pm
FIND IT: JW Marriott Marquis City Center, Doha West Bay
CALL OR WHATSAPP (974) 5506 2798
What could be more comforting during the holidays than a traditional festive feast shared with family and close friends? The 3-course set menu shall include plates piled high, with mouth-watering treats including roasted turkey all the trimmings and the seasonal favorites.
DATE: December 24-25
PRICES: QR 180 per set menu
QR 280 per set menu with beverage pairing
FIND IT: Hyatt Regency Oryx Doha, Old Airport
CALL: 4141 1234 or WhatsApp 6608 5806
The Square will bring a little sparkle to your festive celebrations with a lavish two-day buffet featuring a delicious selection of dishes from around the world, live cooking stations and live entertainment for all to have a merry time. And as for the little guests, they will be spoilt for choice with a delicious selection of desserts, a surprise visit from Santa and exciting activities at the Square Kids’ Club.
DATE: Saturday eve | 24th Dec Price starting from QR 275
Sunday full day | 25th Dec Price starting from QR 295
FIND IT: Intercontinental Doha the City
CALL: +974 7021 8803
Look forward to a traditional Christmas lunch set menu with all your Greek favourites. Accompanied by live music from our Bouzouki Duo.
TIMINGS: 12:30pm to 4pm
PRICES: QR 225 per person
QR 125 per child (6 to 12 years old)
Popular Big Apple Brunch brings you a host of festive gourmet delicacies this year. There’s slow-roasted turkey carved at the table, the legendary Beef Wellington, premium cuts of meat, seafood delicacies, and more holiday classics accompanied by live music. Why not bring your friends and family to share in this culinary extravaganza? New York Steakhouse is sure to make this festive season lavishly good!
DATE & TIMINGS: Friday 23rd and Sunday 25th December | 12pm –4pm
PRICES: QR 495 including soft beverages
QR 595 including selected beverages
QR 695 including premium beverages
FIND IT: New York Steakhouse | Level 2 | Marriott Marquis City Center Doha Hotel
CALL: 4419 5510 or WhatsApp +974 6643 6890
Spend Noche Navideña in Doha’s finest Peruvian restaurant. Enjoy a special Peruvian brunch or an inspired dinner set menu with a welcome drink.
BRUNCH: 12pm to 4pm
PRICE: QR 275 per person
DINNER: 7pm to 12pm
PRICE: QR 350 per adult I QR 175 per child
Live Entertainment 7pm – 11pm
FIND IT: Intercontinental Doha beach & Spa
CALL: 44844919
Live Bouzouki Duo with Plate Smashing Ceremony
FIND IT: Intercontinental Doha beach & Spa
CALL: 44844919
Riyasat celebrated royalty-Inspired Indian fine dining cuisine with a contemporary flair, allowing guests to experience culinary traditions practiced by royal Indian families.
DATE: 25th December
PRICES: QR 225 per person soft package
QR 105 per child (ages 6-12)
FIND IT: St. Regis Doha CALL : 44244856
Count down to 2023 with your loved ones as you indulge in an amazing festive feast of Italian cooking accompanied by live music. Cucina’s Chef Claudio Trovato has prepared a special family-style set menu to ring in the New Year.
DATE & TIMINGS: Saturday 31st December | 8pm – 12am
PRICE: QR 275 per adult including soft beverages
QR 395 per adult including bubbly pairing
QR 165 per child
FIND IT: Cucina | Level 2 | Marriott Marquis City Center Doha Hotel CALL 4419 5510 or WHATSAPP +974 6643 6890
Live DJ entertainment, al fresco dining, unlimited sips, mesmerising views of Doha skyline – what more could you ask for to celebrate the arrival of New Year? See you in Aqua Lounge for the hottest countdown in town!
DATE & TIMINGS: Saturday 31st
December | 8pm – 12am
PRICE: QR 295 including soft beverages
QR 345 including selected beverages
QR 545 including premium beverages
FIND IT: Cucina | Level 2 | Marriott Marquis City Center Doha Hotel CALL 4419 5510 or WhatsApp +974 6643 6890
TIMINGS: 7pm to 2am
Entry price (ladies/gents if different):
LADIES: Free entry until 8pm; After 8pm – QR 150 inclusive of one beverage
GENTS: QR 200 inclusive of one beverage from 7pm
VIP - Ladies/Gents QR 250 per person inclusive of one beverage from 7pm
(Note: Entry allowed for over 21 years only. Original Qatar Resident Permit or Passport (with valid visa)
FIND IT: Ground Floor, West Wing Building of Radisson Blu Hotel, Doha Salwa Road corner
CALL: +974 4428 1555
Ring in the New Year on top of the city with a dazzling view of Doha's night skylines. Dance to the live music and enjoy delicious canapes and free-flow drinks all night long.
31 December | 9pm onwards
QR 495 including regular bar
QR 720 premium bar
FIND IT: Intercontinental Doha the City
CALL: +974 7021 8765
OLIVE OIL
Olive Oil’s New Years Eve Dinner Buffet
Starting From QR 295
From 7pm till mi night
QH gives you the heads up on where to head to herald the New Year in style
Join us this year for an unforgettable New Year’s Eve experience! Spend the last night of the year with your closest friends, live music from Encore band in an unforgettable midnight celebration from 8pm – midnight.
ENTRANCE FEE: QR 295 per person including 3 selected beverages
FIND IT: Hyatt Regency Oryx Doha, Old Airport CALL: 4141 1234 or WhatsApp 6608 5806
Ring in 2023 in the world’s largest Belgian Café over classic European brews and our special menu. During this evening, you and your loved ones can delight in a festive Seafood Platter with oysters, poached lobster, king crab legs, steamed mussels, shrimps, and a selection of cold canapés good for four people at QR 795
Free flow from 8pm to 11pm for QR 250 per person.
FIND IT: Intercontinental Doha beach & Spa CALL: 44844919
Live the night with signature gala dinner to enjoy a broad selection of options that will satisfy your taste buds and elevate your soul to a different level. Indulge in flavours and delights while moving with the music of live band so that your night be worthy of every second. Gala Dinner QR 595
Enhanced Package QR 795 7pm till countdown
FIND IT: St. Regis Doha CALL: 44460127
As you bid farewell to 2022, brace up for a unique themed party to welcome 2023 at Paloma.
Let Chef Juan Carlos delight your taste buds with a set menu while you enjoy an unforgettable live performance by our resident band.
7pm to 2am
QR 250 for a 3-course menu and one festive Margarita
FIND IT: Intercontinental Doha beach & Spa
CALL: 44844919
Mark the evening and countdown to the New Year at Mosaic. The set menu includes dishes designed for sampling and sharing among friends and family which includes Crispy Tempura Squid, Wor Tip dumplings, Spiced Pulled Beef Sliders and Korean Fried Chicken.
31st December 2022 10pm to 1am
QR 265 per person
Beverage package QR 175 per person
FIND IT: Mandarin Oriental, Musheirab Downtown CALL: 40088888
Teatro’s Marco Polo New Year Eve Dinner
Starting from QR 395 From 4pm till midnight
FIND IT: City Center Rotana Hotel, Doha West Bay CALL: 44458888
Sheraton Grand Doha Resort & Convention Hotel held its annual Qatar National Day celebration in its majestic lobby. The momentous day kicked off with a traditional cake-cutting ceremony with a grand celebration cake befitting the grandeur of the occasion and a 32 hanging chandelier cake, each one representing the countries which participated in the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022, a flurry of thousands of balloons, a cultural performance and quintessential local gastronomic treats, embracing the richness of Qatari culture.
The celebration continued with feasts in the hotel’s diverse dining venues, Al Hubara, Atrium Lounge, Irish Harp and Jamavar, which served up locally inspired flavours perfectly designed for family gatherings.
In the evening, guests enjoyed the final match with a live BBQ at Al Hubara Terrace and a mini-feature paying tribute to Qatar’s heritage and growth broadcasted on the building’s façade. Over the past four decades, the hotel has earned its position as an iconic property committed to the nation and its people, who have been instrumental to its success and evolution.
Sheraton Grand Doha has been part of Qatar’s growth story, and it holds a special place in the hearts of the local community.
Sheraton Grand Doha hopes for more returns on this memorable occasion and wishes that Qatar always enjoys security, welfare and prosperity. n
For more information on Sheraton Grand Doha Resort & Convention Hotel, call +974 4485 4444 or visit www.sheratongranddoha.com
The Ritz-Carlton, Doha, has announced the reopening of Habanos. Offering an intimate lounge setting, the venue is a choice destination for those seeking out classic South American specialties. Designed to embody the golden era of travel and exploration, Habanos provides a private space where guests can relax and enjoy important downtime. Oversized Chesterfield sofas, leather wingback chairs and tripod floor lamps are complemented by topographical artworks and a curated library of books and magazines, creating an atmospheric social backdrop.
Inspired by the finest elements of South American culture, the menu serves an array of Latin flavours. From the assortment of snacks and light bites to the extensive menu of drinks, every aspect has been informed by the variety and richness of Latin America.
Adding a slice of Doha glamour to the mix, Habanos benefits from the addition of a spacious sea-facing terrace, where guests can unwind whilst sampling the menu of flavoured shisha.
A highly anticipated addition to The Ritz-Carlton, Doha’s collection of culinary venues, Habanos brings a new dimension to socialising in Qatar. Its captivating atmosphere and quality offering further reinforces the hotel’s identity as
the country’s leading destination for memorable lifestyle experiences. n
For more information on The Ritz-Carlton, Doha call +974 4484 8000 or WhatsApp +974 5599 0916 or visit www.ritzcarlton.com/doha
Slugged as “the only steakhouse in Doha to carry the weight of the New York name behind it”, it sure has plenty to live up to the billing.
From mouth-watering tenderloins and sultry lamb rack to the sounds of a saxophone, New York Steakhouse in the Marriott Marquis City Center Doha is a fiesta for the senses.
It might seem like a steakhouse culinary adventure, but they don’t come more authentic than NYSH — from the service right down to the side dishes and splashy beverages. We’re greeted like old friends by the restaurant manager and warm staff. As we’re led to our table the ambiance reminds us of a high-street Manhattan diner. The décor is impressive and classy, with roomy leather armchairs and dark wood walls and tables. The staff are on-hand to walk us through the mouthwatering menu.
We begin our meal with a quartet of starters, a true bright side as the menu highlights it to be a wagyu burger junior, a crispy chicken corn waffle, a pastrami sandwich and the scallop, lobster hot dog. We tried all of them, popping them into our mouths with a satisfying crunch. The texture of the pastry and the incredible mix of flavours in each mouthful make for a perfect bite.
But the winning starter is the Seafood Tower, a sure heaven for marine fare lovers, poached Canadian lobster, Alaskan king crab, giant prawns, oyster all served on a bed of crushed ice with luscious sauces to indulge further. As we linger, waiting for our main and enjoying a few frosty glasses of traditional beverages, the melodious vocals of the charming singer complemented with the soothing tunes of the saxophone made the entire ambiance alive for a perfect Friday afternoon.
The Mains meaty flight begins from here, our main as I may put into words is a series of Prime Degustation — this delightful sequence progressed with a prime tenderloin, braised ribs, skirt skillet, black angus tenderloin and lamb rack all served with perfect sides alerting the taste buds to the unique steak cuts and preps. Now, we see a real main looming on the horizon as the chef drags his trolley of special cut complimented with a variety of sauces and dips. The chef slices this delectable portion of meat, while you see the soft, juicy meat dropping off the bone, what an absolute delight this was to our existing meaty adventure!
Just when we think we’re done; we are surprised with a specially prepared trolley that had a variety of desserts offered by NYSH. It had lemon tart, raspberry cheesecake, red velvet cake, chocolate fondant and salted caramel ice cream. We felt like children with a magical world of sweets right in front of our eyes. Of course, all samples devoured within seconds!
After this fantastic afternoon, we feel obliged to thank the team at NYSH. If you are looking for a unique experience, let it be put on record that New York Steak House is your meaty destination of choice in Qatar. n
QH dishes out the goods on ‘meaty destination of choice’
Marriott
has introduced a cosmopolitan venue – Farmore Thn Burger – serving elevated delicacies with locally sourced produce in a sporty ambiance
Marriott Executive Apartments City Center Doha has announced the opening of Farmore Thn Burger (FTB) restaurant, a cosmopolitan restaurant with an artisanal flair to Doha’s vibrant dining scene. Located at the lobby level with an exclusive entrance from the buzzing streets of West Bay Doha, the venue features contemporary setting with an energetic ambience to bring people together to savour a gastronomic journey out of the ordinary. The menu features elevated options of classic favourites using locally sourced
ingredients, crafted by the talented inhouse culinary team. Signature dishes include Lobster Pasta, Crab Burger, Lobster Thermidor and Classic Wagyu Beef Burger to name a few. The extensive beverage menu features innovative mocktail and carefully crafted cocktails to satiate all cravings. “We are extremely proud to announce the opening of Farmore Thn Burger. It is an excellent addition to our facilities and, with its vibrant feel good ambience and innovative food and beverage offerings; guests can relax and unwind with friends and loved ones, while enjoying live sports on multiple screens”Rick Enders, Cluster
General Manager, Marriott Executive Apartments, Marriott Marquis, JW Marriott Marquis and Le Meridien City Center Doha gushed.
Inspired by the latest fast food trend, FTB will perfectly deliver a quick satisfying bite along with more elaborated recipes curated from fresh ingredients and hearty flavours. n
Timings: Open seven days a week from 12pm – 12am* Menu: bit.ly/FTBDOHAMENU Instagram: farmorethnburgerdoha
The Pearl Island was a picture of colour, festivity and joy throughout the World Cup. QH was there to catch the rays
Everywhere you ventured during the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 — be it Fan Festivals, music shows or other entertainment activities, Doha was brimming with excitement. The Pearl Island was no exception. But that it was also exceptional with all its colourful and spectacular hues.
United Development Company (UDC)’s exciting line-up of events and visitor attractions at The Pearl Island achieved outstanding success among tourists, fans and local visitors since the very start of the World Cup.
With the number of people attending each day reaching full capacity, The Pearl Island was one of the leading and premier visitor hotspots and the ultimate fan destination.
The significant visitor influx to The Pearl Island reflected the UDC’s organisational success, whether in terms of world-class entertainment content suitable for visitors of all ages and walks of life, or in terms of the smooth arrangements to accommodate hundreds of thousands of visitors and vehicles with total ease, in collaboration with the General Directorate of Traffic, whose support was crucial to the successful management of traffic. Despite The Pearl Island reaching its maximum visitor capacity, people were able to move smoothly, comfortably and easily from one activity or attraction to another, which explains why the peak attendance numbers were consistently high on a daily basis, not to mention the major role played by the Metrolink and Pearl Bus complimentary services given
the convenient transportation in and out as well as within The Pearl Island.
While many events were taking place concurrently in different locations at The Pearl Island, each of them succeeded in attracting big crowds, starting with Qarnevale Quartier’s 10 days of dazzling masquerade-style festival, organised in collaboration with Festi Group, founder and organiser of the famous Venice Carnival. Then, there was Medinafest, brimming with international street performances inspired by European, American, Asian and African heritage.
The Arabia Experience reflected the Qatari culture through arts, hospitality tents and the marketplace, while Porto
Beat was a dazzling DJ with visual effects experience that spread positive festive vibes.
In addition to these events, new attractions for the World Cup were equally popular among visitors, including Duck Lake, Beach Centrale, The Pearl Fountain and The Pearl Photo Walk as well as the opening of the spectacular Kai's Songbird restaurant from London, at Corinthia Yacht Club, The Pearl Island, the inauguration of Corinthia Golf Club at Gewan Island, and the big variety of restaurants and retail shops that were filled with tourists throughout the day, since the launch of UDC’s World Cup events at The Pearl Island. n
Set at a short distance from Doha’s skyline, Mina Hotel and Residences overlooks the serene view to the sea, West Bay and the Cruise Terminal. With 30 Mediterranean style boutique rooms and 126 upscale curved contours apartments that have inclined walls providing a Qatari traditional hint is surely the new hotspot where you’d wish to unwind for a quick getaway or settle in for long-term. It’s a pleasant Monday afternoon, when my family and I check in for a brief one-night introduction to this novel property. Just as welcoming as on the outside is the interiors to be seen from within, simple, elegant and warm. A friendly and smooth check-in has me grabbing my room card towards the golf cart. Our upscale apartment is located towards the cruise terminal end of the Mina district. As we cruise through the narrow alley heading towards our apartment, it feels like stepping into a new location all together. The colourful yellow, pink, orange and blue buildings will surely catch anyone’s attention, and I could hardly wait to hop off my buggy and walk through the winding lanes to explore the district further.
After the buggy ride we arrive at our bright building. Our home for the night is a beautiful three-bedroom apartment overlooking the cruise terminal. After indulging in some complimentary fruits and deserts we manage to catch the magical Qatari sunset as the clouds miraculously clear away. Recharged from this natural marvel we focus back in the room and take in the interior. The décor is chic and classy and certainly makes you feel like home. A king-size bed in the master room plus two twin beds each in the others. The living and dining area reveals comfortable sofas which face toward a massive Smart TV.
Eager to explore, now we step out to explore the fresh instragrammable district, a sure heaven not only for photographers but for food lovers as well. There are numerous coffee shops, cafes and restaurants to satisfy your gourmet desires and the district also offers stores selling handicrafts, paintings jewelry and much more.
Having worked up an appetite after a long day, we head to the hotel for our dinner. The Mina Hotel Restaurant with its warm and refined atmosphere, offers a taste of heritage from Doha topped by a fantastic breakfast, calming afternoon tea and all day light platters that are right after your taste buds. A star-lit dinner at the terrace overlooking the main pedestrian wooden deck promenade area with a view to the sea and the cruise terminal makes you feel a little starry, too.
Our welcome drink was surely a great start to our gastronomic trip. From their starters to the main course, every dish had a delicious taste. The succulent lamb shank served on a bed of oriental rice and herb crumbled seabass is certainly a five-star winner on the menu. Talking further about the lamb – it has been braised so slowly and for so long that it breaks apart at the lightest touch of the fork.
After a sweet ending of their signature fudge and date toffee pudding our bellies are full and, for me, it’s off to dreamland in that king-size bed. Following a restful sleep, we tried the amazing Mina Breakfast which surely is a QH highly recommended morning treat. If you want to relax but haven’t got time for trip abroad then you can’t do much better than a quick break at the Mina hotel and Residence by Torch. n
Beautiful, serene Iceland, an island state northeast of Europe and dwarfed on its west by the largest island on the planet, Greenland. Here they love their horses. Although it is difficult to afford them, most of those who do, keep them as status symbols and many people driving out into the Great Wide Open love to stop by and spoil them with sugar cubes. Like me.
It is, however, just as magical as most of us assume it is. The country of northern lights that bedeck the sky in eerie neon colours for most of the year after August. The country that generates all its power from geothermal activity. It is where the average age is
83 years and has been consistently voted as the happiest nation on Earth. It has no bones to pick with anyone. No conflict to nurture, no army at all and only a small police force who carry no weapons. The most serious crime here is selling tickets on the black market for the packed concerts of its native musicians, the elven Bjork and enigmatic Sigur Ross — who are wildly popular globally.
I was here for an impromptu weekend getaway. On my first day I was taking the popular Golder Circle Tour, a quintessential Icelandic day-long excursion into the heartland of the country to its most popular and uber-scenic sites, Thingvellir, Geysir and Gullfoss.
You can be forgiven for thinking Iceland is a country with lots of ice and plenty of cold. You’d be surprised it has a moderate clime with average temperatures being zero degrees centigrade in winter and in their 20s in summer.
The trip started off from the country’s harbour capital Reykjavik in a roomy, luxury bus. As it made way out of the city, I was thinking about French author Jules Verne who wrote arguably one of the most famous adventure tales in literature, Journey to the Center of the Earth, about a volcano in western Iceland down which a group of explorers descend.
My thought stream was interrupted by our guide, who asked us to look left into the distance, where a snow-capped mountain shimmered in the haze. It was, I startlingly learnt, the 700,000year Snaefellsjokull glacier, adjacent to where Verne sat writing his novel near the volcano into which his protagonists descended to the heart of the world in the 1864 science fiction novel.
"You are lucky," our guide Freya said. "The light is rarely bright enough to allow us to see the glacier 120km away."
I am lucky, indeed, I thought to myself not for the first time in my life.
Iceland is such a country where gazing into the abyss is an opportunity you get often — a living paradox boasting active volcanos hundreds of thousands of years old and glaciers, such as the Langjokull Glacier (6 million years old and 600 metres deep) that we passed in about an hour snaking inward into Iceland.
Then there was the breath-taking panorama that was Thingvellir — snowcapped mountains merging into grassy plains in a valley jutted by the largest lake in the country, shimmering deep blue in the bright light. And all of this — declared a national park — steeped in local history: the site of a building that served as Iceland’s first parliament set up 900 years ago! This was the very first parliament in Europe and is a declared Unesco World Heritage Site.
It was here that Iceland declared independence from Scandinavia while retaining its Viking heritage and embraced democracy when most
of Europe was neck-deep in bloody authoritarianism.
Thingvellir is also neatly divided by another phenomenon: the Raven Ravine, also known as the Rift Valley, which is tearing the island apart at an average two inches a year between the Eurasian and American tectonic plates.
I moved on to Geysir next. This is one of the most famous attractions of Iceland. It is a sprawling area in the shadow of a hill range sporting hot water springs. For over a century, the springs driven by perennial geo-thermal activity miles underneath, throw up geysers of hot water that spout in the air for up to 80 meters. The scalding hot waters can top 120 degrees centigrade.
The spectacular spouts unfailingly erupt every few minutes, keeping cameraready visitors alert for hours on end. Perimeters are deployed to keep visitors at a safe distance as the spouts have been known to scald uncareful ones. The word ‘geyser’ is Iceland’s contribution to the English language, denoting a mechanism that warms up water.
As our day shifted into mid-afternoon, the hills gave way to a stunning deep blue series of lakes that seemed cordoned off. When I asked why, Freya, our guide, told us these boast "the best salmon in the world." Fishing licences are super-expensive and are mostly auctioned off to the rich and famous.
Soon enough I arrived at Gullfoss, billed as one of the world’s most spectacular waterfalls. It was a stunning panorama sporting a massive, vivid permanent
rainbow, as long as the sun was out. Which it was, thankfully, when I took the panorama in, dwarfing the thousand people that milled about spellbound. I returned to Reykjavik through another route punctuated by more rolling hills and grasslands but strangely no trees. There are virtually no proper trees or forests in Iceland; only bushlands and grasslands.
The villages in Iceland in the outback are all situated on geothermal faultlines where the energy is harnessed to grow mostly fruits and vegetables and small, happy communities sustained. Next day it was time to explore the sprawling capital city. I was in time for the formal summer inauguration. The local rite of passage is for the city mayor to catch the first salmon of the season from the city river to herald the arrival of summer. How lovely!
Reykjavik is home to an impressive collection of interesting attractions and places of historic and contemporary significance with much to intrigue the curiosity of visitors. It is hilly, green and flowery with pastel painted houses, quiet lanes and busy bazars.
Also, exemplifying the island’s volcanic activity is the geothermal Blue Lagoon spa that almost all visitors to the city go to for a nutrient-rich dip. Everybody loves a dip here.
At the spa, I learnt that swimming is the only compulsory subject at schools in the country. Everyone, between the ages of 6 and 16, need to master it and pass rigorous exams. No one ever drowns anymore in Iceland. n
