Qatar Happening - January 2015 by Qatar Happening

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Table of Contents

pg 22 In Conversation: Nicole Kidman

January 2015 EVERY ISSUE 9 10 12

Chairman's Letter

AHB Group's Chairman brings you his New Year's address.

ENTERTAINMENT 15

Top Picks

Jewel Of The Pearl

Living History

Celebrity Geek

The Power Of The Picture

QH Speaks

The best of our monthly social media, plus our hit-or-miss list

Events Calendar

Pullout calendar with the city’s donot-miss monthly events

112 It Happened

QH’s photo gallery of the latest happening events in Doha

120 Phone Directory

Need-to-know phone numbers

ARTS & CULTURE

We take you inside the new Marsa Malaz Kempinski resort The IGN Convention Qatar is bringing some of biggest names in the Hollywood sci-fi, fantasy and comic industry to the QNCC

In Conversation: Nicole Kidman

The A-list actress takes us behindthe-scenes of Paddington

Virgin Recommends

The best monthly entertainment picks from the Megastore

Spotlight On Movies

Entertainment Listings

Exploring Qatar Museums' Mal Lawal exhibition

A new photography competition will have you on the sidelines at the Qatar Racing & Equestrian Club

The Ties That Bind

Arts & Culture Listings

The Qatar Turkey 2015 Year Of Culture gets ready to launch Find out everything that’s going on this month

Our top five must-see films of the month

Find out everything that’s going on this month

LIKE US ON FACEBOOK www.facebook.com/qatarhappening

CHECK OUT www.qatarhappening.com for the latest information

For customer service and subscription questions, such as renewals, billing and account status, email info@qatarhappening.com

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Table of Contents COMMUNITY 49

Top Picks

Mother Of Falcons

The Climb To Heal

Voice Of The People

The Facts On Kids & Cholesterol

We head to the desert with Qatar's only female falconer, Laura Wrede A delegation from Doha is climbing Mt. Kilimanjaro in support of the Palestinian Children's Relief Fund We go behind-the-scenes with the cast and crew of Karak Time

How starting healthy habits young can last a lifetime

pg 90

Community Listings

Find out everything that’s going on this month

Sergio Garcia: Return Of The Champion FOOD & DINING

SPORTS

QH SENSATIONS

Top Picks

101 Top Picks

A Medley On The Plate

Return Of The Champion

102 The Art Of Zen

Aromas Of Egypt

Rainbow Run

72 76

The Jazz Club at the Oryx Rotana doesn't miss a beat

Khan Farouk Tarab Café at Katara leaves us hoping for more

2015: Clean & Lean

Doha's on a health kick and we show you where

Word Of Mouth

Our contest winner slices in to the finest cuts at the Marriott Marquis Doha's New York Steakhouse

Food & Dining Listings

Find out everything that’s going on this month

Sergio Garcia is back to defend his title at the Commercial Bank Qatar Masters The Color Run Qatar kicks off in January and promises to be a vibrant race to the finish

The Little Leagues

Evolution Sports is your one-stop shop for children's team activities

Kick-Start To Health

The pros at Absolute Fitness show you the simple workouts you'll need to help keep those New Year's resolutions

Sports Listings

We experience the rituals of the Orient at B/Attitude Spa

104 Up In The Air

We travel Qatar Airways business class from Edinburgh to Qatar for a weekend stay at the Marriott Marquis City Center Doha

108 How To Get Lost In Morocco

Wandering through history in the land of the Berbers

110 The Dish On Qatar

Having surgery here in Doha? We help you navigate the ins and outs of Qatar's public healthcare system

Find out everything that’s going on this month

Have Your Say: Feedback and comments are always welcome. Please forward letters to the editor: Email: editor@qatarhappening.com info@qatarhappening.com jorge@qatarhappening.com

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Call Details: Inquiries: Marketing: Fax:

+974 4427 8416 +974 5584 4905 +974 4427 8415

Postal Address: P.O. Box 7848 , Doha, Qatar

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From The Desk Of The Chairman

On the Cover?

Dear friends, It is my hope that as we face the New Year ahead, we will take heart in the shared accomplishments that have united us over the last year, so that they may propel us onward to further achievement. 2015 brings with it much to look forward to under the auspicious leadership of His Highness the Emir, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani. During the time since his inauguration, His Highness has continued to build and foster a climate of progress and exchange of ideas here at home and also abroad with our diplomatic partners. As a result, more expats are choosing to bring their unique skill sets to Qatar, with our nation welcoming 53,000 new residents this past October. We have always taken pride in a thriving, knowledge-based economy and aspire to draw even more great minds to our cities over the 12 months to come. I must also take a moment to appreciate the work of Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, whose Education Above All (EAA) initiative earned a respected honour of recognition at the 2014 World Innovation Summit for Education (WISE), held in Doha this past fall. A new partnership between EAA, the UNHCR (the United Nations’ refugee agency) and the Kenyan government is now providing access to primary education for children living in Kenya’s Kakuma Refugee Camp. Her Highness’ fundamental belief in access to education for the world’s youth – especially those living in populations which are marginalized due to poverty, conflict or environmental factors – sets an important example on a global scale. Greeting the New Year would not be appropriate without also acknowledging the milestones we’ve reached – and those still on the horizon. Once again the eyes of the sporting world were on Qatar as our national football team took home its third Gulf Cup title in November, gaining victory over opponents Saudi Arabia 2-1 in Riyadh. On the road to the 2022 FIFA World Cup, a win like this and the outpouring of celebration that followed, further solidified our shared passion and support for ‘The Beautiful Game’. As development in Qatar spurs ahead, construction of a new national landmark on the Corniche continues to near completion. Expected to open its doors in 2016 the Qatar National Museum will be a testament to our deep-rooted heritage, featuring artworks and artifacts that reflect who we are as a people. We also welcome the Qatar Turkey 2015 Year of Culture as another example of our belief in how we can learn and grow from one another through a shared understanding of culture. Under the patronage of Her Excellency Sheikha Al Mayassa bint Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, we anticipate a full calendar of events that highlight the best of Doha and Istanbul. From all of us, it’s been our ultimate privilege to be your trusted guide this last year, bringing you the stories, features and events that reflect the best of Qatar. And now, for 2015, we hope to surpass your expectations, taking you further and more in-depth into the country we live in. For we are all explorers with something to learn and – past, present and future –Qatar still has much to teach us about itself. It is my wish that along the way, these discoveries may bring us ever closer as a community and as a nation. It is my pleasure to wish you a very Happy New Year. Ahmed Hassan Bilal Chairman

with Falconer Laura Wrede connects her peregrine, Isabel La Catolica Photo credit: Jessie Palanca

About Us QH is your voice and your guide for all things fun, funky and happening in Qatar! Send us your feedback to editor@qatarhappening.com.

Publisher: The Art of Business Chairman: Ahmed Hassan Bilal Editor-in-Chief: Nasser Ahmed Hassan Bilal Editor: Ashlee Starratt Finalizer / Production Manager: Srimani Welagedara Lead Designer / Brand Manager: Zahi Srour Photographer: Jessie Palanca Web Coordinator: Imran Khan Sales and Marketing Manager: Deliah Furcoi Sales and Communications Manager: Jorge Granda Marketing Coordinator: Chet Tibayan Distribution & Accounts: Lanie Fillo-Pana Contributors: Emily Alp, Sarah Al Motairi, Jacqueline

Bodnar, Sian Edwards, Diana Farid, Ghalia Farzat, Jessica Furseth, John Hunt, Jonny Parr, Amara Photos, Lynsey Riach, Zahra Shikara

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 (QH) 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. All rights reserved 2011, The Art of Business. Reproduction in part or in full is strictly prohibited. QATAR HAPPENING (QH) assumes no responsibility for content of advertisements. QATAR HAPPENING (QH) retails for QR 8. Bulk subscriptions are available for QR 5 each, for orders over 50. 2014

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SPEAKS

QH Our ‘hot-or-not’ picks of the month, social media snippets, plus our Editor’s corner.

The Hit-Or-Miss List

Happy Hour At The Rooftop We’re smitten with The St. Regis Doha’s newest nightlife addition. Its chic lounge vibe gets full marks, along with its creative cocktail and bar bites menu – and really, who doesn’t love a good view with their happy hour? It doesn’t get much higher than the roof.

Ed Sheeran Sold Out We don’t know about you, but we’re bummed we didn’t manage to scoop tickets to see our fave ginge. His one-nightonly concert, coming March 3, 2015 to QNCC sold out in a matter of hours last month. We’ve got our fingers and toes crossed that he’ll add a second show to his Doha stop-over!

Editor’s Corner I’m sitting here trying to think of something non-cliché to write about the New Year. From resolutions, to ‘New-Year, new-you’ – it’s all been said and done. Out with the old and in with the…well, you get where I’m going with this. So instead of waxing poetic about 2015, why don’t we just show you instead? After all, we’ve gone through a transformation of sorts ourselves. New layouts, new look, new style, new paper – a little makeover never hurt anyone and we like what we’re seeing in the mirror! We hope you do too! You can mark your calendars to full this month as some stellar, world-class events make their arrival in Qatar. Sports fans can go crazy at the 18th Commercial Bank Qatar Masters golf tournament, then get your fitness fix at The Color Run Qatar – all happening in January and all to be found in this issue. Qatar Happening is also incredibly honoured to bring you a very special cover feature on a German expat who is making waves in the sport of falconry here in Qatar and abroad. We introduce you to Laura Wrede, Qatar’s only female falconer, whose dedication towards these animals has overcome barriers of tradition, culture and language. Her story is a remarkable one and you’ll only find it here with us. I could tell you more about what you’ll find in this edition for Community, Arts & Culture, Entertainment (don’t miss our Nicole Kidman exclusive interview!) and more…but then I’d be talking your ear off until the next New Year most likely. Plus, if you’re reading this, you’ve already got your copy in hand – so what are you waiting for? Dig in.

Cooking With Fire Recently, a few of the QH team went out for teppanyaki at the Doha Marriott’s Asia Live! and couldn’t have asked for a better night. The food was fab, the preparation theatrical and the prices more than reasonable. There’s just something about having your meal cooked right in front of you! A big shout out to Chef Mark – whose acrobatics at the grill were almost as good as the beef teriyaki.

Killer Commute We promise, this will be the only time we’ll complain about the traffic here – it’s pretty much a constant! But we won’t soon forget one recent commute from West Bay. An hour to get from the Tennis & Squash Complex to Civil Defense Roundabout?! Backed-up, bumper-tobumper gridlock. When will it end…?

See you next month,

Ashlee Starratt Editor

We Are The Champions

Top Of The Twitter-Verse @rachelannmorris

the traffic gets too much I will I’m going to buy a camper van and when . #doha #traffic. pull over and take a snooze until it clears

We’re feeling the love for the Qatar national football team after their recent Gulf Cup win. Beating Saudi Arabia we’re sure only heightened the sporting rivalry – but it was pretty fun seeing all the locals waving the flag, blasting music and celebrating on the Corniche! (Even if it did create a bit of a traffic nightmare…)

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January 2015 Highlights SUNDAY

MONDAY

TUESDAY

Welcome to 2015 HappyNew Year

CHECK OUT

www.qatarhappening.com

for the latest information!

Lombardy Promotion Rocca The Grand Hyatt Till the 11

WEDNESDAY

Artist Showcase Al Markhiya Gallery Souq Waqif Till the 17

Qatar ExxonMobil Open 2015 Khalifa Tennis & Squash Complex Till the 10

4 5 Traditional Greek Menu Mykonos InterContinental Doha

Let’s Get Quizzical Champions Sports Bar & Restaurant Marriott Marquis City Center Doha

11 Big Night Out Lava InterContinental Doha

Modern Jazz For Kids IAID Sat, Sun, Mon & Wed

Laughter Factory Shehrazad Radisson Blu Also on the 12 & 13

12 13 Arabian Treat Six Senses Spa Sharq Village & Spa Upon request

19 ‘The VIBE’ Ladies Night Wahm W Doha

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Craft Club Doha Mums Ongoing

Airline Flight Crew Happy Hours The Lounge Kempinski Residences & Suites Daily

7 High Heels Night Vintage Lounge The St. Regis Doha

14 The Commercial Bank Qatar Masters Doha Golf Club Till the 24

Tapas, Vino & Paint Event Picasso’s Radisson Blu

21 Lessons For Kids Korea Taekwondo Center Qatar Ongoing

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5 r

Sponsored by THURSDAY

FRIDAY

New Year's Day

SATURDAY

Be Social Brunch Aramede Crowne Plaza Doha – The Business Park

Jazz Unplugged JALC Doha Virgin Megastore, Villaggio Mall

1 Jerry Weldon Band JALC Doha The St. Regis Doha Till the 31

2 Frutti Di Mare Night Paper Moon Doha Jaidah Square

Celebrate Christmas The Russian Way The Grill The Grand Hyatt

24th Men’s Handball World Championship Various venues Until Feb 1

Kids Calligraphy Workshops Museum Of Islamic Art Ongoing

10 Bollywood Night Pearl Lounge Doha Marriott

16 Bucket Day Hive InterContinental Doha The City

23 80’s Party Paloma InterContinental Doha

29 30

17 The Tiger’s Dream: Tipu Sultan Museum Of Islamic Art Until the 24

Groove Office Dunes The Grand Hyatt

DJ Beats Glo Cocktail Bar Marriott Marquis City Center Doha Thurs-Sat

24 Happy Hour Paloma InterContinental Doha Daily

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ENTERTAINMENT

Top Picks

InterContinental Doha 80’s Party

Jan 30: Paloma. The weekend is party-time down at Paloma with some funky old-school disco. Just come down with your friends and enjoy Paloma’s great cocktails and funky surroundings with the Back To Back band live entertainment all for QR 50. Entrance fee for gents and free drinks for ladies. Doors open from 10:00 p.m. till late. For more information call 4484-4919 or 4484-4444.

Photo Credit: Amara Photos

The St. Regis Doha Jazz Unplugged

Jan 3: Virgin Megastore, Villaggio Mall. Keep it real with some grassroots jazz, performed live at the Virgin Megastore in Villaggio on the first Saturday of each month. Award-winning performers share their love and passion of jazz music in a fully interactive setting. Head down and hang out with the cool cats from JALC, presented in partnership with Virgin Megastore and Abode Magazine. For more information call 4446-0226.

Marriott Marquis City Center Doha New Champions Food Menu

Daily: Champions Sports Bar& Restaurant. Champions has launched its new award-winning bar-food menu with new additions like the ‘Currywurst’ and much more! From 5:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. For more information call 4419-6100 or visit www.marriotmarquisdohadining.com.

The Four Seasons Thursday Beach Party The Grand Hyatt Groove Office

Jan 22: Dunes. Mark January 22 on your calendar for a night with the funkiest nine-piece band collective in town, made up of some of Doha's finest musicians including former members of Supa Fat, plus DJ Santiago. QR 50 for ladies and QR 100 for gents. For more information call 7021-8094.

Thursdays: Beachfront. The highly-popular Thursday party season comes to an end with a spectacular finale. Set up on the beach of The Four Seasons, the party rocks the best DJ in town with a great atmosphere and a hot social crowd. No cover charge. From 8:00 p.m. till 1:30 a.m. For more information call 4494-8741.

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ENTERTAINMENT

Jewel Of The Pearl Compiled by Jorge Granda Images courtesy of Marsa Malaz Kempinski, The Pearl-Doha

The Pearl-Qatar’s long-awaited Marsa Malaz Kempinski resort opens its doors on a level of luxury that’s nothing short of regal. QH takes you inside the Gulf’s newest premiere destination.

or over a year now (before its official name was even released) Doha’s been abuzz with speculation over the completion of what was dubbed ‘the new Kempinski’. Construction on the resort palace finally wrapped up late last fall – so we thought we’d take you along for the grand tour!

Where Is It? The new Kempinski (as most of us will still continue to call it) sits on a secluded island on The Pearl and has billed itself as the first ultra-luxury hotel in the country. If you’ve driven past the property you’ll see why this could be an accurate statement – it’s majestic. Drawing comparisons to Abu Dhabi’s Emirates Palace – one of the

most regal hotels in the Gulf – the architecture is a blend of European and Arabian elements. Everything from its palatial corridors and public spaces, luxurious rooms and suites, to a selection of the finest restaurants and lounges is set to be of the highest standards, putting it on-track to become a benchmark for bespoke luxury in Doha.

What’s Inside? Marsa Malaz Kempinski has 281 luxury rooms, including 69 suites, two presidential suites and two royal suites. The suites in Marsa Malaz Kempinski are expansive, with opulent space catering to leisure and business demands. All the luxury rooms and suites have balconies or terraces, offering magnificent views over the hotel grounds, the Arabian Gulf and The Pearl-Qatar.

Butler On-Call The resort offers personalized, complimentary butler service for all the rooms and suites. The on-call butler is ready to cater to your every need, from unpacking luggage to anticipating a guest’s personal preferences even prior to their arrival. For tourists and newcomers, the resort’s concierge service also knows every must-see place around town, has exclusive access to

Symmetry and geometry blend upwardly in one of the hotel's vaulted domes

events, and can even point you in the right direction if you need to buy someone the perfect gift. A concierge that provides these types of services is typical of most five-star hotels worldwide but unfortunately, in Doha, this isn’t always the case. We give Marsa Malaz Kempinski two thumbs up for hiring the right person for the job.

Entertainment A whopping 11 restaurants, cafés and bars across the hotel are promised to bring guests and visitors fine cuisine and great entertainment, boasting everything from the freshest, locallysourced ingredients, opulent interior design, and impeccable staff service.

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Dominating it's own island, the Marsa Malaz Kempinski will add a massive boost to tourism on The Pearl-Qatar

ier The colourful shades of Qanat Quart island are visible from the Marsa Malaz

Arabic design elements speak to the heritage of the region

All-Day Dining Sawa Celebrating culinary artistry in a relaxed environment, Sawa means ‘together’ in Arabic and is the hotel's family-friendly restaurant, serving a blend of European and Mediterranean flavours with menus personally curated by the Executive Chef. Timings: From 6:00 a.m. till 11:00 p.m. Seating Capacity: 178 guests indoors, 67 guests outdoors.

Al Sufra Al Sufra means ‘the dining room’ in Arabic. This Levant-inspired restaurant has a timeless charm, blending traditional recipes and flavours from Lebanon, Cyprus, Syria, Jordan and Palestine. Al Sufra follows the festivals and seasons of the Levant, celebrating them with pride and insight into the traditions of its ancient cuisine. With a coffee lounge, open terrace and shisha, as well as a la carte dining, the restaurant can be visited any time throughout the day. Timings: From 11:00 a.m. till 2:00 p.m. Bar opens at 5:00 p.m. Seating Capacity: 195 guests indoors, 40 guests outdoors.

Amwage This grill restaurant is located on the beach and offers an unforgettable al fresco experience. Amwage, or ‘the wave’ in Arabic, serves a selection of fresh and flavoursome seafood and BBQ options, in a casual setting underneath palm trees and next to the azure waters of the Arabian Gulf. Timings: Pool bar from 9:00 a.m. till 6:00 p.m. Beach restaurant from 11:00 a.m. till 11:00 p.m.

Café Murano The stylish European gourmet café offers a chic and elegant setting to enjoy refreshments throughout the day. Café Murano specializes in European art de cuisine, with a passion for chocolate and petite culinary. Timings: From 8:00 a.m. till 10:00 p.m. Seating capacity: 65 guests indoors.

Spa Café The Spa Café serves mouth-watering, fresh juices and the freshest salads, using only locally-sourced, raw ingredients. The relaxed environment, combined with all the pure goodness, will leave guests at the hotel’s Spa by Clarins rejuvenated, energetic and empowered. Timings: From 10:00 a.m till 10:00 p.m.

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ENTERTAINMENT

' In its rough translation, 'Marsa Malaz its means 'marine sanctuary'. With the secluded location surrounded by name. Gulf, the property lives up to its

Evening Dining El Faro ‘The Lighthouse’ in Spanish, El Faro is the new culinary beacon in Doha. It’s a fun and fashionable place to dine out in style, with a tantalizing and cutting-edge menu offering traditional tapas from the Iberian Peninsula. Traditional Spanish culinary delights are paired with a unique beverage extravaganza, set in a casual and stylish décor that’s centred around their phenomenal tapas bar. Timings: From 6:30 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. Bar opens at 6:30 p.m. Seating capacity: 193 guests indoors, 20 outdoors

Toro Toro Spanning over two floors on the island's edge, Toro Toro will heat up the city, pioneering tastes from Buenos Aires to São Paulo and offering a multitude of Pan-Latin dining experiences. Timings: From 6:30 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. Bar opens at 6:30 p.m.

Antica Pesa After its success in Rome, Williamsburg and New York City, Antica Pesa comes to Qatar, re-defining its Italian culinary scene. Its menu has been created following two fundamental guidelines: re-working traditional recipes from Roman cuisine and working with local products that are usually organic. Everything is seasonal, with a nod to modern trends. Timings: From 6:30 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. Bar opens at 6:30 p.m.

Nozomi This is a unique Japanese restaurant with highly-acclaimed cuisine and a chic atmosphere travelling from the heart of London's Knightsbridge district to the island of Marsa Malaz Kempinski. Timings: From 6:30 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. Bar opens at 6:30 p.m.

Nightlife Bohemia This lounge oozes sophistication and is surrounded by luxury, offering a collection of the finest selection of vino and spirits, paired with a concoction of molecular creations. Bohemia is the place to be for those who dare to explore and experiment during their beverage adventures. Timings: From 5:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. Seating capacity: 75 guests indoors.

Illusion The piece-de-resistance of Marsa Malaz Kempinski is Illusion, on the rooftop of the hotel. The nightclub is set to become the new hotspot hub of Doha's nightlife, offering the most remarkable panoramic setting for sundowners, shared dining, lounging and clubbing. The venue is everything an innovative and cutting-edge club of this calibre is expected to offer, with elite, fashionable couture, high-end entertainment and unique live performances, with top DJs on the decks to play the latest imports from the international progressive music scene. Timings: From 5:00 p.m. till 3:00 p.m. n

For more information on Marsa Malaz Kempinski, The Pearl-Doha visit www.kempinski.com/marsamalaz, or to book email reservations.marsamalaz@kempinski.com.

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ENTERTAINMENT

g world fandom bring Cosplayers from across the gamin at the IGN Convention their favourite characters to life

the latest Gamers can go head-to-head on games! consoles, test-driving the newest

as answer questions from the audience. And of course, there will be autograph signings and photo-op sessions. Workshops For those of you who love to learn, the IGN Convention will bring you workshops on all aspects of the film industry, from acting, directing and animation, to editing and more. The workshops will be conducted by the New York Film Academy.

d From celebrity sightings, star-studde sessions, panels and exclusive autograph we're geeking out over IGN!

Celebrity Geek! As told to Jorge Granda

Fan-boys and girls unite! Qatar’s first video game, movie and comic festival beams into the QNCC this February. From cosplay to first editions, rare releases and some major celebrity star power, QH takes you inside the IGN Convention Qatar!

f you’re a video game aficionado, a movie fan or comic geek then get ready for the experience of a lifetime. The biggest film, video game, technology and comic convention is coming to Qatar on February 26 and 27. Hot on the heels of IGN Convention’s major success in Bahrain and Dubai, IGN Middle East is expanding to Qatar for the first time ever, opening their doors for Qatar’s vibrant popculture community to join in the fun and take part in this spectacular event.

The IGN Convention Qatar Line-Up Games, Movies & Comic Books IGN Convention is the melting pot for pop culture. It’s where you come to check out your favourite comics, play the biggest games, and watch the most inspiring movies. You also get to talk about them with like-minded people.

Artists Local and regional artists will be displaying and promoting their work at the convention’s ‘Artist Alley’. Pass by to check them out and see if anything catches your attention. Fun Aside from all of the above, there will also be several contests, games, and stage activities going on during the event, held by exhibitors and IGN staff. IGN Convention Qatar IGN Convention Qatar will be held at the Qatar National Convention Centre (QNCC) on Thursday, February 26 and Friday, February 27. The event will be open to the public from 2:00 p.m. till 10:00 p.m. on both days.

Cosplay Whether you’re competing or just dressing up for fun, this is the event you get to come to as your favourite character.

Tickets can be purchased online through Ticketmaster or Virgin and are also being sold at all Virgin Megastore branches in Qatar.

Gaming Tournaments Get your teams together and start practicing as the IGN Convention will feature a number of gaming tournaments with fantastic prizes for the winners.

For more information check out: www.ignconvention.com/qatar www.facebook.com/ignconvention Twitter & Instagram: @IGNConME n

Celebrities & Panels IGN Middle East is bringing some of the biggest local, regional and international celebrity names. They’ll be holding discussion panels to talk about the video game and film industries as well

Stayed tune next month for our February edition as QH brings you more IGN Convention details and interviews with the Hollywood stars who’ll be making an appearance!

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Smile – It’s A Party! By Jorge Granda Images courtesy of Coco Latté

The lovely DJ Katie Smiles will be rocking the decks at The Grand Hyatt this month at Coco Latté’s ‘Put A Ring On It’ dance party. QH talks life and music with the famous DJ. QH: What attracts you about performing in Doha? Have you been here before? KS: I love DJ-ing in Doha. Every time I’ve visited Qatar I’ve received an incredibly warm welcome from everyone, especially from the General Manager Christoph Franzen and his amazing team at The Grand Hyatt Doha. Locals and expats alike seem to genuinely enjoy going out and having a good time to quality music – which is obviously very attractive to me as a DJ. QH: What are the differences between the crowds in Europe and in the Middle East – do they react differently to your music? KS: I think the Middle Eastern scene is different. The nightlife appears to attract a more mature crowd who are as cheerful yes, but maybe not as ‘hardcore’ – which is very refreshing. QH: You started DJ-ing at a very young age. Was it hard for you to earn the respect of your peers at that age? KS: Yes I was very young when I started in the scene... I caught the house music bug quite early! I think in any industry earning respect takes time, hard work and dedication to your cause. I wouldn't say it’s been hard to earn the respect of my peers, it’s more just a matter of my commitment to being a DJ over a space of time. QH: What were your parents’ reactions when you told them you wanted to become a DJ KS: I’m lucky that I have very supportive parents who only want me to be happy. So when I decided to DJ professionally, they were right behind me. Although they do still keep asking me when I will be getting a ‘proper’ job!

DJ Katie Smiles is bringing her signature sound to Dunes − and we can't wait!

QH: What keeps you grounded and focused on your music, rather than becoming absorbed by the nightclub lifestyle?

QH: Tell us three things you like about your job and three things you wish could be different?

KS: Really my focus is always on the music. It’s my real passion in life so I guess it helps to fuel my direction and keeps me grounded and on-course.

KS: Three things I like about being a DJ...the music, of course! Meeting new people as I socialize while DJ-ing. The travel opportunities that enable me to see different parts of the world. Three things I wish could be different... my body clock adjusting naturally after every weekend, so I could sleep better! No jet-lag after travelling. Moving back to playing on vinyl decks!

QH: Are you busy these days? What have you been up to lately? KS: I’m always busy! I’ve recently come back to London after spending a few months in Russia. Plus I have a part-time business that I work at in addition to my DJ-ing. QH: Are you thinking about your next gig? KS: Music is always on my mind and yes I like to plan to prepare well for each gig I play at The Grand Hyatt Doha. Plus, Nicholas of Coco Latté is a house music aficionado and I have to keep him happy too! QH: If you weren’t a DJ, what would you be doing? KS: If I wasn't a DJ I would probably have been an athlete. Quite different, but I’m fairly good at sports and it’s something else I really enjoy.

QH: Where do you see yourself in ten years? KS: Married; still loving my life DJ-ing, [and] a successful entrepreneur. n ‘Put A Ring On It’ Dance Party Where: Dunes, The Grand Hyatt When: Thursday, January 8 Timings: From 8:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. Price: QR 50 entry including a free drink. Ladies free entry with a free drink. Contact Info: For more information call 4448-1234.

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ENTERTAINMENT

In Conversation:

Nicole

Kidman By Sian Edwards Interview and selected images courtesy of Viva Press

The Hollywood starlet is back on the big-screen in her turn as Millicent in the winter family blockbuster, Paddington. We managed to catch the A-list actress on a rare day off to talk all about her latest movie and how she balances Oscar stardom with everyday family life.

t's rare to see Nicole Kidman in a comedyâ&#x20AC;Ś but this isn't your average family fare. She plays a taxidermist, Millicent Clyde, in the upcoming Paddington live-action movie based on the Paddington Bear books by Michael Bond. It also stars Sally Hawkins, Hugh Bonneville, Julie Waters and Jim Broadbent, with Ben Wishaw as the voice of the title character. Kidman, 47, is married to Aussie country singer, Keith Urban, 47. The couple resides in Nashville with their two young daughters, Sunday, 6, and Faith, 3. She also has two adopted children from her ten-year marriage to Tom Cruise which ended in 2001: Isabella, born in 1992 and Connor, born in 1995. Kidman, as always, is charming, honest, and talks as much about her personal life as she is able. Refreshingly, the Oscar-winning movie star doesn't take herself too seriously and seems to genuinely enjoy her life. QH: Did you do this film for your kids? NK: (Laughs) Yes, I said 'I'll do this for my children,' and then they were like, 'Oh my gosh, are you playing the bear's Mummy?' and I had to tell them, 'No. I'm not.' Then I realized that they can't go and see this film! I'm the taxidermist who wants to hunt the bear â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and although the bear is adorable, I'm not. I'm awful in it. QH: It wasn't that long ago when female movie stars would talk about not getting decent roles after the age of 40, but that seems to have changed a lot. NK: Yes. The world is changing towards age.

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Kidman plays Millicent a ruthless taxidermist who's out to − literally − stuff Paddington!

QH: They’re saying 60 is the new 50, aren't they? NK: (Laughs). I don't know if it's that extreme. But we've certainly got a different timeline than women used to have. QH: What would you say your life is like now versus 15 years ago? NK: Well, it's a whole different life. But 15 years ago or so it was very different for me. But I have purposely re-aligned my life so that I'm not living in a fishbowl. I put my toe in the water with that and went, 'Oh my gosh, this not for me.' I live in Nashville and have a completely different structure to it. There are times when I have to go back into that world for a period of time but then I can step out of it. QH: You're one of the world's most prominent style icons. What’s your relationship towards fashion these days? NK: As I’ve gotten older, it's become less important. That's the way it happens. When I was a teenager in my early 20s, it was a big part in my life. But as I’ve gotten older things have shifted, though I can certainly appreciate fashion for what it is. QH: What do you do to de-stress? NK: Swim in the ocean when I can. QH: When you were shooting Grace of Monaco you had your two little ones with you in France, is that right? NK: Yes. They got to spend an enormous time in Europe. My children were in French school. QH: Did they like it? NK: Kind of! (Laughs). I mean, to the degree that for a then 4-year-old (Sunday) to be exposed to so many different cultures is a great part of my job – that I get to take them around and give them a taste of the world. That's broadening them. I love seeing the world through their eyes, and the whole balance that they provide and the joy that they bring. They are very pure, and they are very emotional and they are very immediate and they won't allow anything other than the moment to exist. QH: You're very athletic. What sports do you watch? NK: Lots of sports. (Laughs). Tennis – I go to tennis regularly and I watch tennis on TV. I watch football, I know a lot about American football, because I watch it a lot – NFL. I love sports.

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ENTERTAINMENT QH: Do you participate in some sport? NK: I run because I was raised by a Dad who was a marathon runner. When we were growing up in the neighbourhood people would be like, 'Oh, I saw your Dad running!' (Laughs). And he'd be out with shorts and no shirt. You know, it was the 70s when we were growing up and he would wear the headband, (Laughs). He had the John McEnroe headband, but it made me love running, and I still love to run. QH: Which tennis star do you like? NK: Federer. QH: With award season coming up again, going back some years when you did The Hours, did you have a feeling you'd win the Oscar?

Kidman shares a laugh on the London set of Paddington

NK: No. QH: Not while you were playing it, but afterwards? NK: Did I have the feeling of winning it? I could tell that people were really into the performance and that they really liked the performance and Oprah had called me and said I was going to win the Oscar. She had called me about six months prior, and then I kind of went cold and people were like, 'No, she's not going to win.' (Laughter). So I thought, 'Oh well. Oprah didn't know.' And then it kind of just happened. It was one of those things where I now look back and I wish I had brought my son but he was young and I thought, 'Oh it's too much for him, and the whole hoopla and all the people.' But now I so wish I had brought him. I wished I had thanked my Dad in my acceptance speech because I only thanked my Mum because that's all I could see sitting in front of me (Laughter). It was just one of those things where you just go, 'Ahhh, I forgot to thank my acting coach.' There's just so many things where you look back and ultimately, now having it, I gave it to my parents, because it was just one of those things where you go, 'You made me, you were the ones that propped me up when I came home crying and told me I wasn't too tall whenever anyone else was like, 'You are too tall!'’ They gave me my character. So it sits on the mantle in Sydney which is kind of a nice place for it. QH: Why are you drawn to difficult material? Even with Paddington, though it may be a movie for kids it's not straight-forward. NK: Because I love complexity and I love that life isn't explained in a sentence or a sound bite and that we have to digest things and people don't always behave well. QH: You're a woman in a man's world in Hollywood. Is that how you see it?

Mr. Mrs. Brown (Sally Hawkins) and an Gruber (Jim Broadbent), befriend film the in bear eager Paddington

NK: Yeah, and that's why I've always tried to step out as a woman to protect other women. I have a sister, I have daughters, I have friends and I was raised by a feminist mother and I believe in the strength of that. But it doesn't mean that you hate men, it just means we need to protect and help each other. We need help sometimes and we need that camaraderie and that's an important thing to offer to other women so that they know you’re on their side. And that's only because sometimes it’s tougher and there's more criticism a lot of times. The choices that women make, I think, are judged more harshly. I heard Meryl Streep talking about it when she was talking about playing Margaret Thatcher and that was one of the things she wanted to do was that no matter whether she believed in her politics or not she wanted to document her life in the sense that she was a woman in a man's world and what she did was a pretty extraordinary story of where she went.

QH: Speaking of women, you're very good friends with Naomi Watts. What do you talk about with her? Do you compare roles and things like that? Do you talk shop much? NK: We are close. We exchange things about so many other things rather than work. We discuss our children more. We have more of that kind of friendship. We've been friends since we were fourteen years old. We text and we call but talking shop is actually not in our conversations very much. QH: Are you a good advice-giver? NK: Sometimes (Laughs). I'm careful because a lot of times it can only come when you’re ready for it. I know that from even my own experiences, if someone is sort of spouting off how I should behave, or what I should be feeling, I don't like that. Nobody likes that.

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There were some rainshowers to go along with those marmalade jars at the film's London premiere

A new generation of fans hear the story of Paddington at a reading circle hosted by Kidman

making it through, is more important than anything – but at the same time, I stay in that place of humility with it. I'm not a big fan of the, 'Hey!' I'm always like, 'We just have to do the

Bear in the big city − Paddington takes on Buckingham Palace.

QH: You seem to typify the woman who 'has it all’ – the career, family and everything looks fantastic. That's certainly how it looks. Is that how it is?

been stable. It's kind of been up and down and right now I'm in a place where I've been able to do some work that kind of sits very well with who I am.

NK: Well I mean, I'm in my 40s and I mean in terms of 'having it all,' I'm not sure what having it all is. Have I found some peace inside me? Yes, am I grateful for the love in my life and the people that I am

QH: I read that Keith [Urban] said he's willing to do anything for you and for your family. That must make you feel very secure…

now sharing my life with –absolutely. I’ve been in the other place as well and that's what life is, it's about contrasts. At the same time, I've had a very erratic career and by no means has it

NK: Having a husband who's willing to do that? Yeah, I feel loved and I feel absolutely that I'll give that back in exactly the same way, you know what I mean? I offer exactly the same thing back because for me, our relationship,

work to stay together.' And also, a lot of it is just pure enjoyment of each other. But it's a very tricky place to walk through and to be able to explain to people. QH: People close to you describe you as funny all the time. NK: Well, I hope I'm funny, because I love to laugh. n Catch Nicole in Paddington, in theatres now – and also keep an eye out for her in the upcoming films The Family Fang, Strangerland and Queen of the Desert… where she takes on the biographical role of explorer, archaeologist and cartographer, Gertrude Bell.

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ENTERTAINMENT

Artists

To Watch

In 2015 By Amy Bassett

Electric Wire Hustle's Love Can Prevail will have you hitting the repeat button

Every to-do list needs a ‘ListenTo-This’ column, and this year, that column will do well to include these artists. Here for your aural entertainment are five artists we look forward to hearing more of this year. Enjoy! Electric Wire Hustle With the release of their debut album ‘Every Waking Hour’ in 2009, this crew from Aotearoa (New Zealand) delivered an instant classic, incorporating elements of jazz, hip-hop, electronica and the fire-and-honey vocals of singer Mara TK into one perfect little package, winning them support from all the right corners of the globe. Gilles Peterson selected their track ‘They Don’t Want’ for his ‘Brownswood Bubblers 5’ compilation; Benji B selected ‘Chaser’ as a Top 10 track of 2009 and collaboration requests from just about everyone worthy followed.

Ibeyi bursts onto the scene with a unique Afro-Cuban sound, from some very talented twin sisters

Tour dates and the new album have kept them busy since, with their follow up, Love Can Prevail, fresh out on the shelves. Thirteen equally enchanting songs reveal layer upon layer of aural sophistication, restraint and elegant lyricism. Mara TK’s undeniable warmth radiates from the vocals; production is as tight and explorative as ever, smoked-out vibes and interesting sidesteps marry nicely with solid hip-hop sensibilities and ever-thoughtful lyrics. Described by Questlove’s Okayplayer label as a ‘sonic tour-de-force’, this album should cement EWH a foothold as guardians of their craft. Take note. (www.electricwirehustle.com.)

Ibeyi Family, the battle for creativity, love, loss and environmental awareness form the themes for the songs of these French Cuban twin sisters. Both multi-instrumentalists and beautifully harmonic with their vocals, this is folk music with a Cuban twist. The standout of their four single releases so far is ‘Oya’ - a haunting horn-line and a simple vocal pick confidently to the apex of the song where drum rhythms and electronic flourishes introduces a fuzzed-out yorucan chanting to take you to the end. Simple, sublime. The album is out February 17, pre-order at www.ibeyi.fr.

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Raury This 18-year-old kid rapper from Atlanta has already played support for Outkast, had a listening session with Kanye, and released his début album Indigo Child – online and free. The debut carries all of the fresh-new elements required for a winner. Hand claps, chorused chants and tribal drums on ‘Gods Whisper’ inspire a youthful lust-for-life; ‘Cigarette Song’ is a guitar ditty with lyrics that smack of Frank Ocean and comes off Odd Future-ish minus most of the bad language. Described as ‘genre-less’ and ‘on-the-verge’, the hype for Raury is loud and wide-spread, so with the carpet rolled out let’s see if the much-anticipated offering of pop music’s wunder-child will live up to that hype. Download this free gem from www.soundcloud.com/raury.

Rap prodigy Raury brings a fresh new sound to the genre

Dreamshow Take band members from TV on the Radio and Cerebral Ballzy, add an art-scene dropout front-man and you have Dreamshow, a punk outfit gathering fans faster than you can say ‘is this for real?’ The Brooklyn based four-piece dropped their first single ‘Chasing Control’ online a few months back, salivating the mouths of Alabama Shakes and The Strokes fans. This fuzzy ballad bemoaning the predictability of life and relationships aches from beginning to end. Constantine V’s enigmatic voice falls over romantic chord changes and clever lyrics – we always play this game / dragging something home / the table’s always set for two / but everything tastes the same – and pulls you back in for listen after listen… after listen. With only two singles out, a handful of live shows in New York and less than 4,000 collected views on YouTube, Dreamshow have set the internet buzzing. Check them out on their Facebook page.

For those who like it loud, this band is one to crank

Sampha British electronic musician/producer Sampha has been lingering on the outskirts of the spotlight for some time now, drip-feeding snippets of musical genius into the mainline and threatening to do some real damage…any day now. With two solo EPs, Sundanza (2010) and Dual (2014) out, alongside a slew of collaborations in which he seems to elicit the very best from his collaborators – ‘Valentine’ with Jessie Ware, for example, or ‘The Motion’ with Drake and live shows with SBTRKT – he’s demonstrated soul, flexibility and production chops. The man has a set of lungs too, so we wonder what’s holding him back. He was tipped by BBC Longlist as an artist to watch in 2014 so let’s see if 2015 brings us an album. Tune in at www.soundcloud.com/samphamusic. n

Sampha is getting ready to melt your eardrums with his SoundCloud set and (we hope!) an album soon!

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ENTERTAINMENT The week at Wahm just got a whole lot hipper for January!

In The Mix At Wahm As told to Jorge Granda Images courtesy of The W Doha

With a different international DJ on the decks each night, the music mix at Wahm in The W Doha this January couldn’t be better. QH has the inside scoop on their daily dose of stellar sounds.

he W Doha is hosting a number of different parties this month at its poolside bar, Wahm. Guests are invited to mix and mingle at the buzzing hotspot and take in the energetic beats of top global DJs. Always on the edge of innovative international music in Doha, Wahm promises that January will

be no exception. From Latin beats to deep house and disco, the outlet’s line-up of international guest DJs will set the scene – whether for a relaxing after work aperitivo, or a party with friends into the late hours. Every Sunday and Monday, Felix da Funk and Liz Mugler’s mix of Latino house music kicks off the week’s musical escapades. Since the beginning of his career on the Ibiza club scene, Felix has played at iconic spots such as Privilege, and established a resident position at popular hangout, Eden. Taking the globe by storm, his tie-up with Liz will amplify the experience as they spin the decks to the season’s hottest tunes. For soul and funk lovers, DJ Steve Paris will be jamming to a mix of grooves with a special ‘spinning’ twist every Tuesday. On Friday’s, Spanish DJ Racquel Leah, will bring the best of

cabanas Lounge at one of their outdoor against a backdrop of great music

Ibiza house music to Wahm. Born and raised in Barcelona, her passion for DJ-ing has seen her travel the world and play at exclusive private parties including Club Noir, Guru Lounge in Barcelona and Jockey Club Ibiza. Other big names include Dj Dogus Cabakcor – who will jet in all the way from The W Istanbul, deep house genius DJ Stephane Karl, and a taste of the legendary Buddha Bar by Dubaibased DJ Nicholas Sechaud. As well as enjoying the incredible musical backdrop, guests are invited to retreat to the poolside cabanas, or a cozy, colourful, cushion-filled indoor private cabana where splashes of orange, burgundy, pink and yellow create a bold and playful backdrop to lounge the night away!

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Big Friday Night Featured DJ: Racquel Leah For the first time in Doha, DJ Racquel Leah will bring a sensational night of the best of Ibiza house music, with a blend of deep-house, tech and chill. When: Friday, January 9, 2015 Timings: From 10:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. Strictly reservation and guest-list only

It’s All About House Music Featured DJ: Dogus Cabakcor All the way from The W Istanbul, talented and fast-rising international DJ Dogus will bring you the best experience of house music. When: Thursday, January 15, 2015 Timings: From 10:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. Strictly reservation and guest-list only

DJ Stephane Karl

Wednesday Fever Featured DJ: Stephane Karl Enjoy a night of deep house with DJ Stephane Karl coming all the way from Paris. When: Wednesday, January 21, 2015 Timings: From 10:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. Strictly reservation and guest-list only

DJ Dogus Cabakcor

DJ Liz Mugler

It’s All About House Music Featured DJ: Stephane Karl From the hottest parties of St. Tropez, DJ Stephane Karl will spin the finest house music for your listening pleasure all night long! When: Thursday, January 22, 2015 Timings: From 10:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. Strictly reservation and guest-list only

From Buddha Bar Dubai ‘Big Friday’ Featured DJ: Nicholas Sechaud Date: Friday, January 30, 2015 Timings: From 10:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. Strictly reservation and guest-list only

‘Funky Sundays’ Featured DJs: Felix da Funk & Liz Mugler Date: Sundays in January Timings: From 10:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. Strictly reservation and guest-list only Buddha Bar's DJ Nicholas Sechaud on the decks

DJ Steve Paris

DJ Felix da Funk

‘The Vibe’ Ladies Night Featured DJs: Felix da Funk & Liz Mugler Date: Mondays in January Ladies sip two beverages on the house from 9:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. Timings: From 10:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. Strictly reservation and guest-list only

‘My Grooves’ Tuesday Nights Featured DJ: Steve Paris Date: Tuesdays in January Timings: From 9:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. Strictly reservation and guest-list only n For more information on all events call 4453-5323 or visit www.whoteldoha.com.

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ENTERTAINMENT

Party

Happenings By Jorge Granda

Photography by Jessie Palanca Additional images courtesy of The St. Regis Doha

For this edition of Party Happenings we take you inside two hip Doha hangouts. If you havenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t checked them out yet, your evenings will never be dull at The Rooftop and Misturado Lounge.

at The St. Regis Doha Chic, sleek and hip, The Rooftop is the new after-work hotspot

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Lush lounge tunes keep The Rooftop thrumming

The comfortable ambiance at Misturado makes it the place to pop by for happy hour!

is the tableside cocktail theatre which is situated to the right of the bar, expanding along the entire space. Behind it, very beautiful waitresses are more than happy to prepare your cocktail of choice – and the drinks list is extensive. It’s opening night when we pay a visit and the staff are incredibly attentive – and I really hope it will stay that way. Service in the majority of new places around the city is fantastic the first couple of months after the opening, but later can sometimes decline. But, with the power of The St. Regis brand behind it, I’m sure The Rooftop will keep it up...fingers crossed!

Going all-white for The Rooftop

launch

Ruckus On The Roof This striking, outdoor terrace at The St. Regis Doha just opened last month, bringing with it the urban chic of New York, Beirut and London. From its lofty perch, you’ll be face-to-face with the imposing Al Gassar Resort, with views of The Pearl-Qatar and the West Bay skyline. Like the rest of the property, the bar breathes elegance and sophistication – the dark silhouettes of costumed dancers can be seen cavorting inside colourful shadowboxes. That’s the first time I’ve seen this in Doha and it gives the place a welcome flair of sensuality. Another new concept they’ve introduced at The Rooftop

With loungers in the middle of the space and gazebos at either end, there are plenty of places to sit, chill, and enjoy a drink and conversation without being stepped on by the crowd or pushed into a corner. The music is vibrant and fresh, but not unnecessarily loud. International DJ Darin Epsilon has created the first SOUNDCLOUD, an exclusive Rooftop mix that is available for guests to enjoy at any time. To reach the lounge, you ascend from the private entrance on the lower floor of the hotel and step out onto the fashionable terrace where you can kick back in a sleek, hip atmosphere and drink in the unbeatable view. The Rooftop is open Wednesday to Saturday from 5:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. For reservations call 4446-0410 or email rooftop.doha@stregis.com.

Sporty-Chic If you’re looking for a pub/sports bar that goes beyond the basics, Misturado Lounge at the Crowne Plaza Doha – The Business Park is a top spot to tune in and root for your team. When a game isn’t on, Misturado can be a relaxed, quiet and spacious retreat; decked out in wood, the bar has a familiar feeling. With its spacious couches and cosy tables, it’s like being in a friend’s living room having a few snacks and frothy drinks. The bar is often crowded with regulars – mostly residents of the hotel and business-people.

We dare you not to love the chicken wings at Misturado!

Weekends and game days can get really packed and rowdy, with big groups glued to the TV screens yelling and sipping their favourite cocktails. The music is varied and not too loud, and their dinner menu offers all the standard classic, pub-style dishes such as nachos, burgers and some particularly memorable chicken wings. Due to the hotel’s out-of-the-way location on Airport Road, Misturado could easily be overlooked – which is a shame because it’s the perfect place to enjoy a drink, especially after a stressful day at the office. During the week (when it’s not so crowded) it’s also perfect for you and 20 of your pals to have the run of the place for a birthday bash. It’s got a separate entrance from the hotel, giving it that standalone bar feeling, and there’s also an outdoor terrace area where you can have a cold one and make the most of the great winter weather. Happy hour is from 5:00 p.m. till 7:00 p.m., and the bar opens from 5:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. and can accommodate approximately 84 guests with an additional 32 on the outdoor terrace. For more information call 4408-7777. n

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Virgin Recommends

QH brings you the top staff picks from the Megastore Name: Ricky Padua Store Section: Literature Time At Virgin: 6 years

Best Part of My Job:“There’s a lot of demand for good books here in Doha, so my challenge is to bring in the customers’ requests for what they like to read. It’s very important in the book industry to bring out a book on time – especially for books related to movies – when it’s out in the cinema you need to have the book in the store.”

Diary of a Wimpy Kid: The Long Haul By Jeff Kinney This is book number nine in the Wimpy Kid series and it’s great for kids ages seven to 11-years-old. In this latest installment everyone’s favourite underdog, Greg Heffley, and his family set off on a long-haul road trip with hilarious repercussions. From psycho seagulls to fender benders and runaway animals, the open road never looked so thrilling! Retail price: QR 59.

Guinness World Records 2015 This is a popular seller and we expect more than a few people unwrapped a copy this holiday season. Want to find out who or what’s the biggest, the fastest, the longest, and the most record-breaking from the last year? It’s all here – and with some cool new sections such as ‘Fun With Food’, ‘Body Parts’ and ‘Solar System’, there’s not a statistic or factoid you’ll miss! Retail price: QR 125.

Four: A Divergent Collection By Veronica Roth

The Rules Of Work: 10 th Anniversary Edition By Richard Templar

A collection of five e-Book short stories from Roth’s hit Divergent sci-fi trilogy, Four serves as a kind of prequel to the series. With each story told from the perspective of character Tobias Eaton, the narratives delve deeper into his back-story and the unstable happenings going on in the world before Tris chose to join the Dauntless faction. Retail price: QR 68.

Re-visiting his classic guide for its 10th anniversary, self-help guru Richard Templar explores the 100 aspects required for a successful and motivated career path. With common sense advice, humourous anecdotes and insightful strategies, it’s a bestseller for those looking to boost their job profile. Retail price: QR 65.

The Maze Runner By James Dashner The first book in the popular young adult series has also been made into a blockbuster movie which hit theatres back in the fall. A post-apocalyptic novel, the plot centres around main character Thomas who awakens in a service elevator that takes him up to the ‘Glade’ – a vast expanse of green in the heart of a sinister maze where a group of boys have been surviving for the last three years. Their only escape from those who have kept them trapped is through its labyrinth where only the strongest maze runners dare to go. Retail price: QR 59.

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Spotlight On Movies 2015 is off to a cinematic start with these January must-sees.

Mortdecai

Still Alice

Action | Comedy Art dealer Charles Mortdecai – played by an inimitably quirky Johnny Depp – searches for a stolen painting that's reportedly linked to a lost bank account filled with Nazi gold. Stars: Gwyneth Paltrow, Ewan MacGregor, Jonny Depp QH Fun Fact: Did you know that actress Gwyneth Paltrow spends Thanksgiving every year with Steven Spielberg and his wife Kate Capshaw at their home in the Hamptons?

Drama Alice Howland, happily married with three grown children, is a renowned linguistics professor who starts to forget words. When she receives a devastating diagnosis, Alice and her family find their bonds tested. Stars: Julianne Moore, Kristen Stewart, Kate Bosworth QH Fun Fact: Co-director Richard Glatzer suffers from ALS (Lou Gehrig’s Disease) and can’t speak. He used a text-to-speech app on his iPad to help direct the film.

Paddington Comedy | Family In this live-action feature based on the series of popular children's books by Michael Bond, a young English boy befriends a talking bear he finds at a London train station. But can they escape the cunning taxidermist who’s out to stuff him?! Stars: Hugh Bonneville, Nicole Kidman, Ben Wishaw QH Fun Fact: In 1956, author Michael Bond spotted a lonely teddy bear in a shop window near Paddington Station, sparking the idea for what would become one of the most beloved children’s literary characters.

Black Sea Adventure | Thriller In order to make good with his former employers, a submarine captain takes a job with a shadowy backer to search the depths of the Black Sea for a submarine rumoured to be loaded with gold. Stars: Jude Law, Scoot McNairy, Tobias Menzies QH Fun Fact: During his acting school days, Jude Law was roommates with Ewan MacGregor and Jonny Lee Miller. All three would go on to attain Hollywood stardom. Not too shabby!

The Woman In Black 2: Angel Of Death Drama | Horror | Thriller Forty years after the first haunting at Eel Marsh House, a group of children evacuated from World War II London arrive, awakening the house's darkest inhabitant. Stars: Helen McCrory, Jeremy Irvine, Leilah de Meza QH Fun Fact: Though Daniel Radcliffe starred in the first film, you’ll still see Harry Potter alums in the sequel. Helen McCrory who played Narcissa Malfoy, and Adrian Rawlins who played James Potter, both star.

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ENTERTAINMENT

Listings

QH RECOMMENDS

All listings are categorized per hotel. Inclusion is limited to availability of space, with priority given to advertisers. A1 Nights By Xtremer Entertainment Fridays: The Grill. Do you want to feel ‘A1’? Xtremer Entertainment presents ‘A1 Nights’ at The Grand Hyatt starting Friday, Jan 9, and then every Friday onwards from 9:00 p.m. until late. Xtremer’s official DJ Rage will rock the house along with top international DJs performing the best hip-hop, R&B, UK garage and soul music. Ladies enjoy free cocktails before 11:00 p.m. Dress code is dress to impress. For more information call 7712-3440 or 7798-2400.

REGULAR PROMOTIONS CROWNE PLAZA DOHA – THE BUSINESS PARK Liquidity Nights

W Doha ‘The VIBE’ Ladies Night

Mondays: Wahm. Enjoy a night of deep house and Afro-beats with resident DJ’s Bruno & Savino. Ladies sip two drinks on the house from 9:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. Strictly reservation and guest list-only. For more information call 4453-5323.

Thurs & Fri: Liquidity. Enjoy a drink or two with your favourite snack at Liquidity. Complimentary drinks for the ladies. From 8:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. For more information call 4408-7777.

The Crew Lounge Making it easier to navigate at your fingertips, we’ve categorized all our listings per outlet – including special offers and weekly/daily regular promotions.

SPECIAL PROMOTIONS MARRIOTT MARQUIS CITY CENTER DOHA Let’s Get Quizzical

Jan 12: Champions Sports Bar. Join Champions for the best quiz night in Doha with a maximum of six players per team for a chance to win the 1st prize of QR 3,000. Free entry. From 7:30 p.m. till 9:30 p.m. For more information call 4419-6100.

RADISSON BLU BBQ On The Terrace

Jan 2 & 9: Shehrazad. Enjoy a succulent selection of Chef’s choice BBQ items for QR 120 while kicking back and relaxing on an open terrace. For more information call 4428-1555.

Laughter Factory

Jan 12 & 13: Shehrazad. Three of the best comics present over two hours of club standup, direct from The Comedy Store in London. Both evenings are non-smoking events! Doors open from 5:00 p.m., show starts at 8:00 p.m. Entrance fee is QR 140 and patrons must be 21 years of age or older with valid ID. For more information call 4428-1555.

THE FOUR SEASONS BBQ Night

Thursdays: Pool Grill. Kick-off your beach party with a selective feast of irresistible meat and seafood, grilled to perfection. Enjoy extraordinary BBQ such as 800-gm of bone-in rib-eye, complemented with refreshing beverages. From 7:00 p.m. till 10:30 p.m. For more information call 4494-8741.

THE GRAND HYATT Doha Hustle

Saturdays: Rocca. The Doha Hustle parties are back! Book your table every Saturday on Rocca’s terrace with DJ Kinky D and enjoy the best soul, funk, disco and deep house tunes while sipping the most refreshing drinks from a specially- customized beverage menu. Entry fee is QR 50 which includes a drink on the house. Don’t forget to leave your card for a chance to win prizes. For more information call 7021-8096.

Sundays: Misturado. The weekend is extended until Sunday! Misturado is offering specials for hospitality and airline crews with a live DJ spinning the latest music and mash-ups. From 8:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. For more information call 4408-7777.

#SOS: Sound On Saturday

Saturdays: Liquidity. The bar is calling #SOS every Saturday at the hotel’s rooftop restaurant for an evening of great music by DJ Jared McCulloch and the Global DJs. Must be 21 years of age or older.. QR 45 includes one drink and one bite. From 6:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. For more information call 4408-7777.

DOHA MARRIOTT Pearl Lounge Theme Nights

Mondays: Ladies Just Wanna Have Fun. Gents QR 100, ladies get three free drinks between 9:00 p.m.and 12 midnight. Tuesdays: Bollywood vs. Hollywood. Ladies get one free drink between 9:00 p.m. and 12:00 midnight. Wednesdays: Arabic Night. Ladies get one free drink between 9:00 p.m. and 12 midnight. Thursdays: Diva’s Night Out. Gents QR 75, ladies get three free drinks between 9:00 p.m. and 12 midnight. Fridays: Khaliji Night. Saturdays: Bollywood. Gents pay QR 75 and get one free drink. Ladies get one free drink between 9:00 p.m. and 12:00 midnight. Sundays: Closed. For more information call 4429-8444.

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ENTERTAINMENT INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA Big Night Out

Wednesdays: Paloma & Lava. It’s Doha’s biggest ladies night with unlimited complimentary selected drinks for ladies. Dance to the tunes of Paloma’s new resident band, Sizzle, followed by two dance-floors with resident DJs from 10:00 p.m. till late. For more information call 4484-4919 or 4484-4444.

Lava Theme Nights

Sundays: Hospitality Night. Enjoy a 50% discount on food and beverages for hotel staff and cabin crew with DJ Hossein. Mondays: Urban Diva Night with DJ Shadi. Enjoy two free drinks for ladies and no entrance fee from 10:00 p.m. till late. Tuesdays: Fly Night with Resident DJs! Enjoy 50% off on food and beverages for teachers and free drinks for female cabin crew all night. Thursdays: Vibe Nights with their resident DJ. Fridays: Sparkling Friday with their resident DJ. Saturdays: Themed parties every Saturday Night. Doors open from 8:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. For more information call 4484-4919 or 4484-4444.

Happy Hour

Daily: Paloma. Enjoy an amazing Happy Hour from 5:00 p.m. till 7:00 p.m. with selected beverage offerings seven days a week and exclusive food offerings on Saturday, Sunday and Monday with 50% off on the a la carte menu. For more information call 4484-4919 or 4484-4444.

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA THE CITY After-Work Evenings Sun-Thurs: Hive. De-stress with an after-work visit to Hive and make the most of their buy-one-get-one free offer on selected house beverages between 5:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. For more information call 4015-8888.

Live DJs

Wed-Fri: Strata. Enjoy three musical-themed nights with two extremely talented DJs on the decks from 9:30 p.m. till late. Every Wednesday and Friday enjoy the disco and deep, soulful house tunes from Steve Kz. Deep and funky house music enthusiasts will enjoy the beats played by Jared McCulloch & Friends every Thursday, with local DJs making guest appearances on selected dates. A mash-up of dance and urban tunes will keep you on the dance-floor the entire night every Friday with Sam World & Friends.For more information call 4015-8888.

Bucket Day

Fridays: Hive. Quench your thirst with a bucket of six brews for the price of four on selected beverages for QR 125, while listening to funky tunes from the ‘70s from 5:00 p.m. till midnight. Also perform your favourite song for the crowd from 8:00 p.m. till 12:00 midnight. For more information call 4015-8888.

Listings Super Saturdays

Saturdays: Hive. Gather the boys and get down to Hive on Saturday to enjoy the best the Premier League has to offer, while indulging in a 20% discount on food items and selected beverages for QR 25. For more information call 4015-8888.

KEMPINSKI RESIDENCES & SUITES Sparkling Fridays Fridays: The Lounge. Fridays at The Lounge are bright and sparkling! They welcome all ladies with two complimentary glasses of bubbly. From 8:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. For more information call 4405-3325, email restaurants.doha@kempinski.com or visit www.kempinski.com/doha.

Happy Hour MIX & FUSE

Daily: The Lounge. The Happy Hour at The Lounge is back, more Mixed and Fused than ever! From 5:00 p.m. till 7:00 p.m., socialize with the trendiest crowd in the city and sip your favourite beverages and cocktails or take a bite from the refreshed options on the menu and benefit from a 50% discount on selected items. For more information call 4405-3325, email restaurants.doha@kempinski.com or visit www.kempinski.com/doha.

Airline Flight Crew Happy Hours Daily: All airline flight crew can enjoy a complimentary 20% off their final bill of their dinner and/or drinks in Aroma or The Lounge when presenting their company ID card. From 7:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. For more information call 4405-3325, email restaurants.doha@kempinski.com or visit www.kempinski.com/doha.

Soulful Sundays

Sundays: The Lounge. Kéyali Mayaga returns, recharged, to The Lounge – ready to relax and chill you every Sunday evening with her magnificent voice. Start the new week in style at The Lounge and revel in blues and soul sounds from the much-loved repertoire of Kéyali. From 9:00 p.m. till 12:00 midnight. For more information call 4405-3325, email restaurants.doha@kempinski.com or visit www.kempinski.com/doha.

Slow Motion Vogue

Wednesdays: The Lounge. The hippest night out in Doha returns in September with Longplayer and Kinky D at the decks of The Lounge. The weekend starts early with sophisticated Latin funk, disco-boogie and re-edited sounds. Sip the most creative cocktails in Doha and socialize with the trendiest crowd in the city. From 8:00 p.m. till 1:00 a.m. For more information call 4405-3325, email restaurants.doha@kempinski.com or visit www.kempinski.com/doha.

9 To 1 At The Lounge

Thursdays: The most chic Thursday night out in Doha arrives back at The Lounge after the summer vacation. Listen to the finest grooves and the slickest of soul, funk, jazz, Afro and soulful house music, sip cocktails of the future and be part of the fun and class. From 9:00 p.m. till 1:00 a.m. For more information call 4405-3325, email restaurants.doha@kempinski.com or visit www.kempinski.com/doha.

LA CIGALE Global DJs

Thursdays: Club 7. Welcome your weekend in a vibrant atmosphere at Club 7 and join Global DJs every Thursday for an unforgettable night! From 9:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. For more information call 4428-8665 or 5518-8008.

MARRIOTT MARQUIS CITY CENTER DOHA Ladies Night

Wednesdays: Glo Cocktail Bar. Ladies can indulge every Wednesday from 5:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. at Glo, with a selection of house beverages and a special concoction every month. The ladies-only two-for-one Happy Hour runs from 8:00 p.m. till 9:00 p.m., with a special drinks menu starting at QR 25 for ladies – plus treats and surprises on your way out! Free entry. For more information call 4419-6100, or visit www.marriottmarquisdohadining.com.

DJ Beats

Thurs-Sat: Glo Cocktail Bar. Glo presents DJ Lady CC from Portugal on the decks bringing you the latest grooves on the dance-floor every Thursday, Friday and Saturday. Entry is free. From 8:00 p.m. till 1:00 a.m. For more information call 4419-6100 or visit www.marriottmarquisdohadining.com.

Music Fridays!

Fridays: Champions Sports Bar & Restaurant. The sports bar presents evenings of international music and pizzazz with all your favourite songs played by a live band. Entry fee is QR 60 inclusive of one house beverage. From 8:00 p.m. onwards. For more information call 4419-6100 or visit www.marriottmarquisdohadining.com.

MÖVENPICK HOTEL DOHA Be Entertained At Jazz Up

Fridays: Jazz Up. This bar is a charming spot where sports and music-lovers can chill out in intimate and contemporary surroundings. Listen to soothing tunes and indulge in the beverage selections, creative cocktails and snacks. Catch all the major sporting events live on the big screen, plus sizzling performances by the Doha Jazz Club every Friday from 8:00 p.m. onwards. For more information call 4429-1111.

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See us online! om www.qatarhappening.c

ORYX ROTANA Hospitality Night

Saturdays: Jazz Club. All hoteliers, crew members and hospitality colleagues can enjoy the best notes of funky jazz music with an 80’s flair, while benefiting from a 30% discount on the total bill. Make sure to check in early for a great night! You can invite up to three guests. Enjoy the night with the DJ spinning from 9:00 p.m. till 1:00 a.m. For more information call 4402-3333.

Ladies’ Night

Tuesday: Jazz Club. Join in ladies and indulge in three complimentary drinks from 5:00 p.m. till 10:00 p.m. After that, enjoy a 50% discount on selected cocktails. Enjoy the night with the jazz band Why Not playing. For more information call 4402-3333.

THE ST. REGIS DOHA High Heels Night

Wednesdays: Vintage Lounge. Step into the glamourous and elegant Vintage Lounge for a great night out. Ladies enjoy a 50% discount off selected beverages from 6:00 p.m. till 1:00 a.m. For more information call 4446-0000.

Jam At JALC Doha

Wednesdays: Every Wednesday night JALC Doha gathers an eclectic group of local, regional and international musicians for an exciting and impromptu jam session. Led by JALC Global Ambassador Dominick Farinacci, musicians and vocalists of all styles are brought together in dynamic performances. QR 100 entry per person includes complimentary welcome beverage. From 9:00 p.m. till late. For more information call 4446-0000.

W DOHA Crystal Happy Hour

Mon-Fri: Crystal Lounge. Enjoy Happy Hour at Crystal Lounge accompanied by their ‘Radiation Duo’ live band performing from 6:00 p.m. till 10:00 p.m. There’s a 50% happy hour discount on beverages, plus indulge yourself with their renewed and recharged food menu. From 7:00 p.m. till 10:00 p.m. For more information call 4453-5353.

Arabesque Night

Saturdays: Crystal. Crystal proudly presents every Saturday, Arabesque Night featuring LAYALI 1001 NIGHTS with the stars Fadi & Mazen performing live all the latest Arabic songs, while DJ Imran mixes the best of R&B and commercial house. For more information call 4453-5353.

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ENTERTAINMENT

Misturado ess Park Crowne Plaza Doha - The Busin

Directory

Strata Lounge InterContinental Doha The City

Dunes The Grand Hyatt

Let us help you make the most of your weekend with our comprehensive directory of bars, pubs , clubs and lounges throughout the city. So grab your friends and head out for a night on the town! Admiral’s Club The Ritz-Carlton

4448-4800

Jazz At Lincoln Center Doha The St. Regis Doha

Pearl Lounge Doha Marriott

Bar Rancho’s Grand Regal Hotel

4425-6666

The Jazz Club Oryx Rotana 4402-3333

Beach Bar Lounge The Four Seasons

4494-8888

Jazz Up Mövenpick Hotel Doha 4429-1111

Belgian Café InterContinental Doha

4484-4444

Krossroads Horizon Manor Hotel

Bubbles on Two Radisson Blu 4428-1428 Champions Marriott Marquis City Center Doha 4419-6100 Cigar Lounge Sharq Village & Spa Club 7 La Cigale Crystal Lounge W Doha D’Illusion Gokulam Park Dunes The Grand Hyatt Fahrenheit Horizon Manor Hotel

4425-6666

4428-8888

Lava Lounge InterContinental Doha Le Club Mercure Grand Hotel Level 23 The Ritz-Carlton

Qube Radisson Blu 4428-1428 Rocca The Grand Hyatt

4448-1234

Shehrazad Radisson Blu 4428-1428 4445-5444 Sky View La Cigale

4428-8888

4484-4444 Spike’s Lounge Doha Golf Club

4496-0777

4446-2222 Splash Oryx Rotana 4402-3333

Liquidity Crowne Plaza Doha The Business Park

4448-4800 Strata Lounge InterContinental Doha The City

Madison Piano Bar La Cigale

4015-8888

The Irish Harp Sheraton Doha

4485-4444

The Library Radisson Blu

4428-1428

4428-8888

4470-8888 Manhattan Radisson Blu 4428-1428 4448-1234 Misturado Crowne Plaza Doha The Business Park

4408-7777

4453-5135

4445-5444

4429-8888

4446-0000

The Library Bar & Cigar Lounge The Four Seasons

4494-8888

4405-3325

4408-7777

Glo Cocktail Bar Marriott Marquis City Center Doha 4419-6100

Orion Radisson Blu

4428-1428

The Lounge Kempinski Residences & Suites

Habanos The Ritz-Carlton

Oyster Bay & Bar The St. Regis Doha

4446-0105

Vintage Lounge The St. Regis Doha

4446-0105

Paloma InterContinental Doha

4484-4444

Wahm W Doha

4453-5353

4484-8000

Hive InterContinental Doha The City 4015-8888

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Arts & Culture

Top Picks

Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony Jan 31: Qatar National Convention Centre. Alastair Willis conducts Beethoven’s masterpiece Symphony No. 9 in D Minor, Op. 125. Felicitas Fuchs, soprano; Elisabeth Meister, alto; Robert Gambill, tenor; David Jerusalem, bass baritone; and the MDR Radio Choir of Leipzig. Show starts at 7:30 p.m. and tickets can be purchased at Virgin Megastores, or online at tickets. virginmegastore.me, or at the Katara Opera House, Building 16. For more information visit www.qatarphilharmonicorchestra.org.

MATHAF Shirin Neshat: Afterwards

Ongoing: This is the first solo exhibition in the Middle East by internationally-acclaimed artist Shirin Neshat, which will run until February 15, 2015. Occupying the entire ground floor galleries at Mathaf: Arab Museum of Modern Art, the exhibition features existing and newly-produced works. The show includes the major photographic series The Book of Kings (2012) inspired by the poem Shahnameh (The Book of Kings) by Persian poet Ferdowsi, written between c. 977 and 1010 CE, as well as a selection of video installations, OverRuled (2012) and Turbulent (1998) that collectively comment on historical, cultural and political realities on which the artist has focused on for the past 30 years. For more information visit www.mathaf.org.qa.

Photo credit: Amara Photos

The St. Regis Doha Jerry Weldon Band

Until Jan 31: JALC Doha. A veteran in the New York jazz scene, Jerry Weldon is most noted for being the saxophone legend from Harry Connick Jr.’s big band, and part of the Lionel Hampton Orchestra. He’s a world-class musician who’s bringing his band to Jazz at Lincoln Center Doha for some top-notch, non-stop entertainment for jazz aficionados. For more information visit www.jalcdoha.com.

Al Markhiya Gallery Artist Showcase Qatar Museums Here There Exhibition

Until spring 2015: Alriwaq Doha. A showcase of works by artists from Qatar and Brazil, Here There is a commentary on the transformation of culture and society within these two countries. It explores the context of where we come from and what we are maintaining as part of the organic change. The exhibition falls under the Qatar Brazil 2014 Year of Culture as part of Qatar Museums’ annual initiative in establishing cultural ties between Qatar and countries around the world. For more information visit www.qm.org.qa.

Until Jan 17: Souq Waqif. Al Markhiya Gallery kicks off the New Year with a thought-provoking collection of works from Jordanian artist Hilda Hiary and Lebanese artist Raouf Rifai. Browse through a selection of contemporary pieces that explore the unique perspectives of both artist’s creative minds. For more information visit www.almarkhiyagallery.com.

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Arts & Culture This year's Mal Lawal exhibit is laid out to reflect the historic alleyways and old streets of Qatar

Living History By Ashlee Starratt Images courtesy of Qatar Museums

How much can the past teach us about our present? It’s a concept currently being explored in Qatar Museums’ 8,000 squaremetre Mal Lawal exhibition, on display now at the International Exhibition Centre until February 28. Featuring artifacts and heritage items from private collectors across Qatar and the GCC, each piece tells a story about the region’s early roots. QH learns more from curator Nasser Al Hammadi. QH: ‘Mal Lawal’ means ‘from the old days’ in the Qatari dialect; can you give us an overview of the exhibition? NAH: ‘Mal Lawal’ is a phrase in the Qatari dialect made up of two parts. The first part, ‘Mal’, has multiple meanings in the Arabic

language. The second part of the phrase, ‘Lawal’, means ‘days from olden times’ (defined as 50 years or more). The exhibition is called ‘from the old days’ because it’s a collection of old personal belongings with significant monetary and historical value, from times past.

This year’s exhibition features collections taken from residents and locals in Qatar as well as a number of countries within the GCC. This is intended to embody and confirm the shared history, heritage, and national identity of these nations. This exhibition is built on the success of the previous Mal Lawal exhibition that took place during September 2012. This was the first of its kind locally and regionally,and showcased art and heritage collections of high quality and value. The initiative is made possible under the guidance and leadership of HE Sheikha Al Mayassa bint Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, Chairperson of Board of Trustees of Qatar Museums. And also the wise care and leadership of His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, the Emir of Qatar, and the Father Emir His Highness Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, and their keenness to preserve heritage and establish the root of Qatar’s national identity and legacy.

QH: This is Mal Lawal’s second edition – what new artifacts and items will be highlighted in this year’s collection? NAH: The exhibition will feature all types and categories of collectibles including manuscripts, weapons of all kinds, metal and paper money, Islamic coins, ancient maps, ethnographic antiques, artifacts, jewelry, clothing and other accessories. These items are collected and sourced from different parts of the world after complying with the conditions set forth in the contract signed between the collector and Qatar Museums. What’s new in this year’s exhibition is the design idea, which was inspired by old streets, alleys, and neighbourhoods (Al Fergan) in Qatar, where young people, at that time, used to write on the walls of houses and alleyways. The design is in the shape of three arched walls, each 40 metres long, containing display windows that have the capacity to hold more than 4,000 pieces. Between these walls are narrow passageways with locally-inspired names. QH: How do you source the pieces for the collection and who are some of the most prominent collectors to showcase their items? NAH: Qatar Museums is responsible for the care and transfer of private collections from Qatari collectors to and from their homes, upon the collector’s request. QM is also

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responsible for arranging the order and covering all costs related to packaging, shipping, and transportation of the collections, and all documents related to the pieces, from their location of origin to the exhibition site and back to the custody of the collectors after the end and closing of the exhibition. The shipping is managed by a company selected by Qatar Museums. This method of handling also applies to participants from the GCC. An invitation has been extended to a large number of Qatari and GCC VIP figures, urging them to attend the exhibition as guests of honour and to display their exquisite collections. It’s been confirmed that HE Sheikh Faisal Bin Qassim Al Thani will be participating in this exhibition, among others.

QH: Are there any especially rare heirlooms that will be on display? NAH: Yes, beautiful and rare collections of precious stones and precious jewelry, made from the finest and most beautiful forms of natural pearls, will be displayed in the exhibition. This is in addition to a huge array of rare and valuable collectibles and pieces of heritage, currencies and old stamps, and old handicrafts, which were locally manufactured in Qatar and the Gulf region – be it a marine or desert environment. These handicrafts include coffee cups, dishes, pots, tools for grinding and storing grains, old metal and wooden kitchen utensils, and many other tools used in all aspects of daily life in tents and in simple traditional Arab houses. One of the significant and rare displays in the exhibition are parts of the covering of the Kaaba, and the lid or curtain for the door of the Kaaba, which was commissioned for the Ottoman Sultan, Suleiman the Great, in Mecca in the year 950 Ahjria. This cladding is in great condition and is the earliest known of its kind, along with its counterpart in the Topkapi Palace in Istanbul. There is also a pair of huge scientific models that represent the universe and are the property of private university libraries (manufactured by Willem Janszoon Blaeu, 15711638, in Amsterdam).

A traditional milk churn

QH: Most of the items and artifacts are representative of Islamic culture – and also Qatar’s early roots. How rewarding is it for you, as a curator, to oversee such a vast exhibit of the nation’s cultural history?

A telescope or spyglass from 1917 with its bill of sale

NAH: Qatar Museums seeks through this exhibition, and through the historical and artistic collections displayed throughout its galleries to build bridges between the past and the present. Also, to create real connections between the displayed artifacts and the communities in Qatar and the Gulf states, to enhance and enrich the knowledge and awareness of the shared heritage and cultural cooperation between these nations. As an expert in heritage at Qatar Museums and as a supervisor of such wonderful collections that embody the cultural history and cultural identity of Qatar and the Gulf region, I think that this exhibition, with its many purposes and benefits, is of the utmost importance to Qatar, the Arabian Gulf and world heritage more generally. QH: As a viewer, it’s quite remarkable that so many of artifacts come from privately-held collections, rather than from museums. When you think about it, there’s really an unprecedented level of accessibility to historical heirlooms. Why is this? NAH: This exhibition includes a unique display of a wide range of artifacts and pieces of heritage owned by both esteemed collectors and amateur enthusiasts, who have either inherited or purchased them. These collectors have kept and maintained artistic and creative belongings that showcase knowledge passed down by parents and grandparents to generations hungry for the heritage, history, art, and creativity of their ancestors. Each display tells a story that transports us across time on an exciting artistic, historical, and cultural journey. In our display of the collectors’ belongings, we treasure their participation and express our gratitude for the acquisition and preservation of these valuable artifacts – and also for their love and passion for the hobby of collecting. n To learn more about Mal Lawal visit www.qm.org.qa.

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Arts & Culture

The Power Of

The Picture Photography enthusiasts and equine aficionados are finding common ground through Qatar Museums' Equestrian Photography Competition. We take you behind the lens!

hat skill does it take to capture the strength, speed, power and agility of Arabian racing horses on frame? With its Equestrian Photography Competition, Qatar Museums is searching for those with the creative eye and shutter-speed it takes, in an effort to uncover new photographic talent in Qatar. Qatar Museums is responsible for developing, promoting and sustaining Qatar’s cultural sector under the visionary guidance of its Chairperson, HE Sheikha Al Mayassa bint Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani. They’re inviting all amateur and professional photographers to submit photographs that capture raw and striking imagery of Arabian horses on the track as they compete at various events organized by the Qatar Racing & Equestrian Club (QREC). The contest began on November 25, 2014 and will run until January 31, 2015.

n makes The power of the Arabian stallio the track them formidable competitors on − and subjects through the lens

The competition celebrates the role that horses have played in Arabic art, as well as their contribution to Qatar’s heritage and culture. The best photo entries will be unveiled and the winner announced at the QREC’s 40th anniversary event on February 20, 2015. The person who walks away with the top honour will be invited on a trip of a lifetime to the famous racing and equestrian event in France –The Qatar Prix De L’Arc De Triomphe 2015. “The Equestrian Photography Competition is a new and exciting initiative that gives aspiring and professional photographers in Qatar the opportunity to showcase their talent and capture powerful imagery of beautiful Arabian horses in action,” says Hamad Al Eida, Director of Communications at Qatar Museums, expressing his excitement at the potential scope of community involvement. “At Qatar Museums, we’re shining a spotlight on the importance of horses in Qatari culture, which have always been an important part of the heritage of Qatar and a source of national pride,”

he adds. “We’re excited to see all of the wonderful submissions of these magnificent animals as seen through the eyes of the local community.” To enter, participants need to register online at www.qm.org.qa, where they can also find out information on the terms and conditions of the

competition and the entry requirements. Once completed, entrants will gain exclusive access to a press box at one of the QREC events to capture close-up shots. They can submit up to three images for consideration. Events to attend will be based on the QREC racing calendar, with equestrian activities held twice a week. n

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Arts & Culture

The Ties That Bind

Images courtesy of Qatar Museums

This January marks the dĂŠbut of the Qatar Turkey 2015 Year of Culture, the latest cross-cultural exchange in the Qatar Museums-led series. QH gives you a glimpse ahead at the festivities!

atar Turkey 2015 Year of Culture celebrates the relations between the State of Qatar and the Republic of Turkey, and will explore the contemporary and traditional cultures of both countries. With a host of exhibitions, festivals, performances, educational programs and cultural exchanges on the horizon, the activities will showcase the unique aspects of each nation, as well as the shared interests of their citizens.

Qatar Years of Culture Locals with their caravan in front of Al Zubarah Fort

Istanbul's Ortakoy Mosque on the banks of the Bosphorus

The Qatar Years of Culture are an ongoing series of bilateral cultural exchange programs that have included Qatar Japan 2012, Qatar UK 2013 and Qatar Brazil 2014. Each Year of Culture aims to foster understanding of Qatar internationally and deepen understanding of the cultures of the partner country in Qatar. All Years of Culture include activities for a range of audiences including family, schools, student and adult participants and the programs are grouped under four main pillars: Arts & Culture, Community & Education, Sport and Business & Trade.

2015 Highlights

Qatari women sell their wares at a souq stall

Inside Istanbul's Sultanahmet, or Blue Mosque

Qatar Turkey 2015 will include major events in both countries; exhibitions in Turkey will include a new edition of the acclaimed Pearls exhibition, now seen by over 250,000 visitors in Japan, UK and Brazil, and a new show of modern and contemporary Qatari and Arab art from the collection of Mathaf: Arab Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art. In Qatar, The Hunt, a new exhibition curated by MIA will explore images from Qatari and Ottoman Royal collections. Musical performances in both countries will feature classical, Turkish and Arab music, including concerts in Doha and Istanbul by the Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra. Festivals will include a Turkish film week in collaboration with the Doha Film Institute and an open-air Turkish Festival and Bazaar at the Museum of Islamic Art Park. n All event programs are subject to confirmation. For more information on the Qatar Turkey 2015 Year of Culture visit www.qm.org.qa.

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Arts & Culture

Listings

Museum Guide QH RECOMMENDS

For a complete list of timings visit www.qma.org.qa/en/exhibitions

Mathaf: Arab Museum of Modern Art Education City 4402-8855 mathaf_info@qma.org.qa www.mathaf.org.qa Open: Tuesday to Sunday Closed: Mondays

Museum of Islamic Art & Park

The Corniche 4422-4444 infomia@qma.org.qa www.mia.org.qa Open: Wednesday to Monday Closed: Tuesdays

QATAR MUSEUMS Yousef Ahmad: Story Of Ingenuity

Ongoing: QM Gallery, Katara. Running until February 14, 2015, this exhibition highlights Qatari artist Yousef Ahmad’s body of work through a precise selection of the most striking artworks from his early works in the 1970s up until today. It showcases three phases of his artistic career, from the early oil paintings that include the historic depiction of Al Zubarah Fort, to his mixed media calligraphic pieces where he utilizes and creates local palm tree paper, to his new conceptual artworks presenting his ability of developing an innovative artistic style. For more information visit www.qm.org.qa.

ONE OF A KIND

EVERY WEEK

QATAR PHILHARMONIC ORCHESTRA Buchbinder Plays Brahms

SALSA N CANDELA Winter Schedule

Jan 10: Building 16, Katara Opera House. Renowned pianist Rudolf Buchbinder will perform Johannes Brahms’ Piano Concerto No. 1 in D Minor, Op. 15, and Symphony No. 1 in C Minor, Op. 68. Dmitrij Kitajenko conducts. Tickets are QR 75-QR 200 and are available for purchase at Virgin Megastores or online at tickets.virginmegastore.me or at the Katara Opera House box office. For more information visit www.qatarphilharmonicorchestra.org.

MUSEUM OF ISLAMIC ART The Tiger’s Dream: Tipu Sultan

Until Jan 24: 1st Floor, Special Exhibitions Gallery. Drawn entirely from the MIA collection, this exhibition delves into the life and times of Tipu Sultan, the South Indian ruler, statesman and patron. Featuring a selection of objects that reflect Tipu’s image as the ‘Tiger of Mysore’, the main highlight of the exhibition is a rare display of 24 paintings showing Tipu’s victory at the Battle of Pollilur in1780. The Tiger’s Dream is on display until January 24, 2015. For more information visit www.mia.org.qa.

Ongoing: Eforea Spa, The Hilton Doha. Salsa and dancing are the core of Salsa n Candela’s activities, with their team of multi-talented professionals from the world of art and dance, teaching and assisting all class participants. Learn the high-energy, sultry art of Latin dance with traditional Salsa, Cuban-style, fitness, Bachata, hip-hop and Zumba classes. QR 60 per class or QR 420 for a package of eight salsa classes only. For more information on class timings call 5504-7010, visit www.salsancandela.com or email info@salsancandela.com.

IAID Broadway Jazz

Sat, Tues & Thurs: Hilal St., Al-Tadamon Signal, D-Ring Road. Offering classes for both kids and adults, Broadway Jazz dance is different from other styles as its fusion of ballet, jazz and modern allows for unconventional movements and unusual body forms. The use of theatre props such as canes, top hats, and gloves is also popular in Broadway production which is an essential component of this course. For more information call 4432-0974/4441-1234, visit www.iaidonline.org, or email enquire@iaidonline.org.

ALRIWAQ DOHA

Museum of Islamic Art Park 4452-5555 Open: Same days as Museum of Islamic Art

QMA Gallery

Building 10, Katara, Cultural VIllage 4408-1255 qmagallery@qma.org.qa Open: Monday--Saturday & Sunday Closed: Fridays

QF Radio 93.7FM Bolded programs in English Bright Morning: 7:00 a.m. International News: 9:30 a.m. Innovations: 10:00 a.m. The Movie Guide: 12:00 p.m. English News: 1:00 p.m. Market Economics: 3:00 p.m. Stars of Science: 3:00 p.m. Green Tea: 4:00 p.m. Therapeutic Fatwas: 4:00 p.m. Voice of the Youth: 5:00 p.m. Raising a Child: 5:00 p.m. Corners: 6:00 p.m. Fashion: 6:00 p.m. Straight Up: 7:00 p.m. Twitter: 7:00 p.m. Legendary Artists: 8:00 p.m. Sport Global: 9:00 p.m.

Sun-Thurs Daily Monday Thursday Daily Tuesday Wed Saturday Friday Thursday Monday Sun--Thurs Saturday Sunday Tuesday Daily Daily

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Community

Top Picks

Doha Mums Craft Club

Ongoing: If you have Pinterest boards bursting with projects you’d like to do, but never quite get round to them, then come along and work on your latest project with some company to get you motivated and inspired. This club is for members only. For more information visit www.dohamums.com or email rsvp@dohamums.com.

Katara Dragon-Boat Racing

Ongoing: The Doha dragon-boat team first took to the water in October 2013 and its popularity and number of team members has grown ever since. A unique style of long-boat, dragon-boat racing is found all over the world and is one of the fastest-growing water-sports. Paddlers of all levels and age groups are welcome to join in this fun exercise of teamwork, physical fitness and camaraderie. For more information on the training schedule call Jeff at 7044-3823.

Museum Of Islamic Art Kids Calligraphy Workshops

Ongoing: Informative and entertaining for kids, the MIA offers a range of walk-in sessions, individual workshops and special courses in calligraphy and art education. During each session, students will explore the MIA’s collections and create beautiful artworks and calligraphy. Try out traditional and modern techniques, learn about the great artists of the past and engage with historic works of art. For more information visit www.mia.org.qa.

IAID Modern Jazz For Kids

Qatar Foundation Healing Tunes Charity Concert

Mid-Jan: Location to be determined. Qatar Foundation is hosting a charity concert event in support of the Climb4PCRF initiative. A delegation of climbers from Qatar will be scaling Tanzania’s Mt. Kilimanjaro to raise awareness and funds for the Palestinian Children’s Relief Fund (PCRF). The concert will be led by talented local pianist and composer Waseem Kotoub [pictured above]. Tickets are QR 200 and the performance starts at 7:00 p.m. For more information visit www.climb4pcrf.wordpress.com, or www.qf.org.qa.

Sat, Sun, Mon & Wed: Hilal St. Al Tadamon Signal, D-Ring Road. This dynamic class covers the basic step vocabulary and variations of dances commonly used in the musical theatre and commercial entertainment industries. Designed to train students to professional-level standards with technical exercises and exciting routines, children will learn from only the most skilled instructors. For more information call 4432-0974/4441-1234, visit www.iaidonline.org, or email enquire@iaidonline.org.

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COMMUNITY

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Perched on Laura's arm, Isabel La Catolica emanates strength and a fierce beauty

Laura trains her lanner falcon Ramas with a freshly-killed pigeon

nce upon a time, expats would arrive in Qatar, hear something vague about falcons and grow curious. Somehow, most of them found their way to the falcon market in the old souq. Peering or stepping in, they’d note the perfect stillness penetrated by shafts of dusty light, surrounding dozens of birds—perched motionless like totemic monks pacified under tasseled hoods. They’d wonder—‘what must it be like to hold that feat of nature on your arm, take the blinders off and unleash its power into the sky—never totally sure if it would return?’ At the market or at dinner parties, some would ask what an animal like that costs. With the x-thousand riyal answer, they’d shelve their fantasiesin the filing cabinet of their minds labeled ‘romantic tradition for locals only.’ The end…except in the case of Laura Wrede.

By Emily Alp Photography by Jessie Palanca

The traditional hunting practice of falconry has long been an important part of Qatari culture. For centuries fathers and grandfathers would rise with the dawn and take their sons into the desert to commune in nature with their birds of prey. Now, the face of the tradition is shifting as we introduce you to Laura Wrede, a German expat who has embraced both its roots and the people who have taught her how to fly.

For Laura, this story would prove way too simple, way too status quo—for she was destined to be what she has now quietly become: a Qatar-based iconoclast. “They go with their brothers and cousins. They usually don’t even take their friends—not even Qatari friends. They just take the close nucleus of the family,” Laura says, explaining her gradual entry into Qatar’s falconry culture. And along the road to training falcons with locals, even she was unaware of what reaching her goal really meant for the nation and one of its most prized activities. You might wonder – with this level of exclusivity and sheer expense, how did she even begin? Yet anyone spending time with Laura senses quickly, she’s a pleasant force of nature. Behind her wideopen, green-eyed grin, bleach-blonde braided hair and sharp sense of humour resides an incredible combination of tenacity, sensitivity and grace that, when combined with a lifelong passion around falcons, would find her the protagonist in a breathtakingly unusual story.

A German national, Laura accompanied her husband to Qatar from Madrid, Spain, where she had lived for eight years. In both Germany and Spain, she found her passion sparked by wildlife and hunting. She grew up well aware of Germany’s high standards around these pursuits—you have to study for a year and take several exams just to get a hunting license there. Shortly after her arrival in Qatar, someone sensed that Laura wasn’t just another expat interested in nature and falcons. They decided to express this in a fatefully generous gesture. On a random Thursday night, Laura threw a dinner party for ladies only, so that Qatari women would feel comfortable and welcome. One by one, she’d receive her guests and their thoughtful gifts—colourful flower bouquets, a cake, delicately-wrapped sweets and… a falcon. “I was so shocked—I was like ‘what is that!’” Laura says, surprised all over again as she recounts the night. “I was so overwhelmed. Seriously, I put the falcon in a room, locked the door, and my guest was like ‘I just felt that this is your passion, and I just wanted to throw you into the water with it.’” “I said ‘But I have no idea …,’ and she said ‘Well you’re going to have to figure your way out.’ And I said ‘Well I’m not ready yet,’ and she said ‘Well you’re going to have to be ready now.’” After the party, Laura was so tired that she thought maybe the whole falcon scenario was a hallucination, a dream. So she went straight to bed without going to check on it. In the morning, she turned to her husband and wondered aloud if there was a falcon in the house. Thinking her a bit nuts, he joined her on a walk to their guest room. They opened the door and met eyes with a kestrel falcon, perched in a massive cage.

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COMMUNITY

Laura's mentor, Salim Al Humaidi with his peregrine falcon Anoof.

Laura had to figure out what to do with her new falcon, and her WhatsApp chats with a German falcon expert would certainly not be enough. She had to care for and train this animal to hunt in the skies above Qatar’s sizeable desert. After a couple of discouraging visits to veterinary centres around Doha, she spotted a Qatari man with a falcon on his arm, talking to many people at the falcon hospital. “So many people came up to him,” she says. “I had no idea what they were saying, but by the way they came with their falcons, I could see they needed advice – and he was giving it to them. So I went up to him and said ‘Hi, my name is Laura,’ and he was like ‘Ana Arabi …’ [seeming to say] ‘By the way, I don’t want to talk to you’ … they don’t talk to women on a normal basis unless they have to. And I came with my little tiny kestrel [training] falcon, which nobody respected. You know, it’s like when everyone has a Ferrari and you pull up in your little Fiat Punto, and you’re like ‘Hi—I’m ready!’” Somehow through this man, Salim’s, resistance—and his outright denial that he owned a cell phone (which Laura had watched him slip into his thobe pocket earlier), she persisted in getting his number and making sure he had hers. Over the next few weeks, with only a dozen or so words to bridge their languages, they would arrange meetings to go out and hunt. The first time they met at a petrol station between Doha and Al Khor—“At 2 p.m. on the dot” since Salim is always punctual. Salim, with a

The sun sets after a long day in the desert, and Isabel La Catolica is hooded for the journey home

few family members in tow, guided Laura and her concerned husband into the vast expanse of sand and rock, the grounds for a subtle yet profound shift in history. A Qatari gentleman in his late 30s, Salim was at first a reluctant participant in a lady’s life-long dream, a dream that would grow to include him as well. Laura was not begging; she was insisting. And by some strange and wild grace, it never seemed she was demanding so much as simply stating the obvious—she belonged with the falconers in Qatar, out in the desert with them, honing a passion for wildlife that they all understood and shared. The rest was just details.

“He called me Margaret,” she says, “He would say ‘Hi Margaret, how are you?’ And I would say ‘Laura’…He called me Margaret every day… after two weeks of seeing him every day, it changed.” Having shared with her the basics of falconry and some spots in the desert, Salim could tell, Laura wasn’t going away. In fact, he had to somehow integrate her into the larger local falcon group, with his male cousins, nephews and siblings. When he did, the two of them faced some mixed emotions—what Laura described as generosity mixed with skepticism and slight hostility. But Salim was now also

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aggressive peregrine. She takes them out into the desert every day, most times with the group. Training and feeding them involves her killing and dismembering a couple of pigeons a day. Falcons naturally survive off of the fresh meat of these birds, and some species get a good amount of their hydration from the blood of their prey. For how fierce they are, falcons are complex and sensitive animals that demand attention to their weight and other health signals. Laura sets each one on a scale before walking it out, removing its hood and letting it get a sense of its surroundings. She’ll release a pigeon or tie one to a rope, depending on whether the falcon is in a training/molting phase or full-flight mode. The next chapter of Laura’s falconer story will involve regional competitions. They “enable and

possessed by this woman’s destiny, something that felt only natural—and after all, that’s what they were doing out there, appreciating nature. Laura describes his challenge: “Salim was talking with one of the older brothers, and you could see the body language—‘Who is this and what the heck are you doing?!—Do you think this is some kind of tourist attraction?!’ And I could totally see, as if Salim was saying ‘You know what, if you would have met her, the same thing would have gone down! It’s not possible to get rid of her! Here she is, whatever, she almost pulled out my phone. I tried my best, here she is—we have to deal with it.’” All of the hostility gradually dropped away as the group started to accept Laura— “We have shared our cultures and learned from each other,” she says. “They are like brothers to me.” Laura now has two falcons—Ramas, a mid-sized lanner falcon, and Isabel La Católica, a larger more

Noor Balooshi, Salim's helper from Pakistan, watches over Anoof

idi releases Salim's cousin, Abdulla Al Huma gets his young peregrine. A falcon often prey wild first named after it has killed its

preserve this heritage, and this is why I want to be a part of them. I am about to fly to Abu Dhabi where I will sleep in a tent with other falconers from all over the world who share the same passion.” Laura has learned Arabic enough to converse, and Salim now speaks enough English to tell good stories about his experiences in the desert. “We got close that they have become a part of me,” Laura says. “In the beginning the feelings were mixed—they didn’t know how to deal with this completely new social situation. Once I was accepted, whenever I was on vacation they would call me…and when I returned, they wouldn’t say they missed me. They would say, ‘Your place in the desert was empty and was not filled by anything or anyone.’” n

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COMMUNITY

The Climb To Heal

By Sarah Al Motairi Selected images courtesy of Ghalia Farzat and Zahra Shikara

QH had the pleasure of speaking with Qatar’s very own moutaineers. Amina Ahmadi (Bahraini/Qatari), Ghalia Farzat (Syrian), Haneen Al Oraidi (Palestinian), Haya Al Ghanim (Qatari), Mohammed Gamar (Canadian/Libyan), Shaima Al Tamimi (Yemeni), Una Seth (Indian), and Zahra Shikara (Iraqi/British) spent New Year’s Eve atop a noble cause: summiting Mt. Kilimanjaro in support the of the Palestinian Children’s Relief Fund (PCRF).

s we sat in the lobby of The Torch, I met with five of the eight climbers: Amina, Ghalia, Haneen, Shaima and Una. Their charismatic personalities beamed as we began the interview and a sense of support and commitment towards one another filled the air. They were united by a common cause: PCRF.

addressing the medical and humanitarian needs of the Palestinian youth. There are currently a number of chapters, from the West Bank, to Gaza, to Lebanon, to Jordan, to the U.S., all bias-free and fighting for a greater cause: the healing of the human race. I think Una said it best, “We are all human beings but the PCRF is human.”

Ghalia Farzat shared the impactful story on how the PCRF came to be, “In the early 90’s, [U.S. journalist] Steve Sosebee was on assignment in Palestine,” she says.”He encountered a child who was injured. Steve felt helpless, realizing he needed to find a way to heal these young children. He decided to take full responsibility for this young child, flying the child out to Ohio, taking care of all medical expenses. He became one of the first host families, taking full responsibility for a child in need."

I began by asking the obvious first question: “What inspired you to climb Mt. Kilimanjaro?” The girls smiled as they looked at each other, then Ghalia said, “I was at a time in my life where many challenges came my way. I was looking for an out, something to impact me deeply. I remember watching a video of the late Marwa Fayed, the young woman who inspired the Marwa Fayed’s Toy Run after her passing. Her video spoke to me about Arab women, empowering ourselves and stepping outside of our comfort zones.” Ghalia has experienced many travel adventures but was looking for something with meaning, a deeper cause, “I was inspired by the children who were treated by the PCRF and went on to climb

Together, Steve and his late wife, Huda Al Masri, started the PCRF, providing a transparent, registered, non-political, non-profit organization

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with The ladies pose at The Torch Doha tian Omar Samra (centre), the first Egyp Everest and youngest Arab to climb Mt.

“Planning has set a goal for me,” she eloquently states. “Having that goal has allowed me to be systematic in my training, physically and mentally, focusing on my health and daring to take on new challenges.” Amina reminds me that PCRF is at the heart of her inspiration. Recognizing the journey of the children who climbed with the PCRF despite their physical disabilities, “how freeing of an experience that must have been for them,” she muses. To be able to assist children in need, financially, to help treat their medical needs, and help them live happier lives is what Amina believes is the centre of her journey.

Qatar A delegation of eight climbers from for a scaled the heights of Mt. Kilimanjaro hearts charity cause that's close to their

Kilimanjaro with prosthetic legs. I was inspired by the PCRF for providing them that very opportunity, providing them with treatment to make it possible for them to climb.” Shaima chimed in, “I was tired of routine, and I needed a challenge. I had witnessed the beauty of Kilimanjaro during my travels from Kenya to Tanzania but I never dreamed there would come a day that I would climb this beauty. Ghalia pitched the idea to me, and I thought, why not, a great cause, I’m turning 30, I need a challenge.”Amina was happy to share her thoughts as well, “I can’t think of a fundamental reason but when Ghalia asked if I would be interested in climbing a mountain with her, I thought, why not! Yes! Then I began to think about it and realized how empowering of an idea this actually is. It was an epiphany for me. Since I started planning in February, month by month, I realized the power of the mind. How we own the power of thinking. We can do anything we set our minds to and there is no excuse to not succeed.”

Haneen admits she is drawn to adventure and challenge: “I am known for stepping outside of my comfort zone. I have done so in my personal life and career often. When Ghalia called me, I said yes, I’m doing it! With no details of what was required of me. If it means finding a way to promote the needs of children in Palestine, Syria, Iraq or elsewhere, I will use whatever means necessary to draw attention to the cause.” She admits that through training and preparations for the climb, her fitness level is not where she had hoped it to be. This has only encouraged Haneen to improve her fitness lifestyle and habits. Una decided to support the cause by committing to the climb later on in the game. Omar Samra, an adventurer, mountaineer, entrepreneur, inspirational speaker and future astronaut, inspired her. He is the first Egyptian and youngest Arab to climb Mt. Everest. He is also the first Egyptian to complete the 7 Summits challenge as of May 31, 2013, climbing the highest mountain on all seven continents. On December 5, 2013, he was chosen to be an astronaut to become the first Egyptian in space in 2014. He spoke at an event in Doha in October called The Pursuit of Dare, in support of Climb4PCRF. Una gleams: “I’m one of the late joiners. I was taken aback by Omar Samra’s talk at The Torch a [few] months ago. I am doing this for the children. I am 48, will be 49 this [month]. I want to challenge myself. My pocket keeps saying

don’t do this, but my heart says go for it. It’s for a good cause and God will provide a way. I do a lot of volunteer work so this is a great cause for me to work with. Plus, I am doing this with my friends.” Scottish born, Iraqi Zahra is a self-confessed adrenaline-junkie and a citizen of the world. She’s also a keen martial artist, gaining physical, mental and spiritual discipline in a number of martial art forms such as taekwondo, Shaolin kung fu, tai chi, sunmudo and wing chun. As a qualified yoga and body-control Pilates teacher, Zahra is always on the look-out for a new adventure. “When I heard about this climb, my adventure-instinct was roused. My biggest fear about this trip is the cold and this fear has stood in the way of several great adventures in the past. So I have decided to face my fear and head to a summit where temperatures can reach -30 degrees. As Mum said, ‘Why would you do that to yourself? But go for it!’” It’s only natural that Zahra would support a cause such as the PCRF: “It’s a fantastic organization dedicated to healing and I fully support and salute their cause. I believe they not only contribute to making people's lives that little more bearable but they bring to light that most beautiful of human emotions: hope,” she passionately shares. Ghalia added that each has their own selfish reason for climbing Mt. Kilimanjaro, but to do so with such dedicated people makes it easier. “I’m thankful to every one of my comrades for encouraging me and making this an easier decision to take on. We are a team. We come from different backgrounds, career-wise, ethnically…yet we united for this cause and that is special.” Ghalia jokes, “Mohammed is one of our late joiners but he is fully on-board. He has managed to complete all the necessary documentation, bought his ticket, set up his campaign on the Climb4PCRF campaign site and is inching towards his goal. At the speed he’s going, he may summit before us all,”

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COMMUNITY to be a means to healing. The charity concert will support buying medical equipment for children in the Arab world. I will play an array of my compositions, Palestinian tunes and tango music.” Waseem graduated from the Royal Academy of Music in London, is a special prize-winner of the IBLA piano competition in Italy, first prize-winner of the KRSF competition, has played with several orchestras including the Brandenburg National Orchestra under the baton of many conductors such as Solhi Al-Wadi, Ahmad Al-Saiedi (director of the Egyptian Opera House) and Sebastian Wiegle. the biggest For Zahra Shikara, the cold was njaro obstacle she faced on Mt. Kilima

Last month, December 26, 2014 marked the beginning of an inspirational journey for each of these climbers. Each will experience the climb as it relates to them; however, all agree that without their families support this adventure would be unachievable. “As an Arab woman, we tend to face a number of hurdles when convincing our families to take on such extreme journeys in our lives. They may not be comfortable with our decisions yet they support us, unconditionally. For a woman to climb Mt. Kilimanjaro is not the norm within our society. So we thank them for their support and trust in us,” says Haneen.

Ghalia Farzat says the challenge of the climb was a source of empowerment

Amina goes on to share: “My family supported me without question, and for that I am grateful. They are examples to other Arab families.” Una lightheartedly giggles: “My parents are back home. I had to get approval from the hotel management, [her employer]. He is worried sick and keeps reminding me not to do this. I thank them for their support.”

These brave climbers aren’t sure what to anticipate during their climb. It takes a total of seven days to summit and then descend. The schedule is as follows: one day at base camp, the next five days are spent ascending the mountain with regular stops to rest, while allowing the body to acclimatize as oxygen levels decline, and the seventh, final day, spent descending the mountain. Still, each of them agrees that regardless of fears they may harbour, fear of heights, physical challenges, fear of the intense cold weather, or the fear of failure, this journey will be a discovery.

know is we will be there to support one another. We will work as a team,” Una confidently says.

“I will discover something about myself, my endurance. I’m afraid of heights. I visited the Seychelles recently and instead of relaxing, I climbed granite boulders to push my boundaries,” states Amina. She shared that Haya Al Ghanim encouraged them that, “on that mountain we will discover what it is that keeps us going, what keeps pushing us.” This is a journey not yet taken, so expectations are vast yet unanswered. “What I do

To raise awareness for the PCRF in Qatar, Amina Ahmadi has organized a concert she appropriately named Healing Tunes, in line with the PCRF’s concept: healing children. The charity concert is to take place near the end of January, as they finalize location details, and will feature local talents including accomplished Syrian pianist and medical doctor, Waseem Kotoub. He states, “As a medical doctor and a pianist, I consider music

Haneen goes on to share, “I’ll be keeping my eyes on the summit. I have a fear of heights, so this is definitely out of my comfort zone and this helps me realize that I have no boundaries.” Shaima adds, “I despise the cold. The more I research, the more I learn –the realities of frostbite, high-altitude sickness, and malaria. All issues of real concern but force us to prepare and take the necessary preventive measures such as vaccinations, medication, and the right climbing gear.

Shaima is thankful to her family for their endless support. She is also grateful to Viras for their generous donation of $5,000 USD, helping her inch closer to her $15,000 USD fundraising goal. Ghalia is grateful to Omar Samra (the late Marwa Fayed’s husband) and his company, Wild Guanabana: Life Changing Journeys, for being an inspiration and providing the support the team needs to make this a successful climb. “I must give a shout-out to Bilal Randeree, the folks at Doha Tweetups and Stand-Up Comedy Qatar for their selfless support. I would also like to thank my mother, who has put up with my travels over the past year. She is supportive in all I do.” The team would like to thank all the donors for their generosity and commitment to helping children in need of medical assistance. “We couldn’t do this without all of you. Thank you.” n For more information on how to donate, visit www.climb4pcrf.wordpress.com. Please remember, in order to support the climbers with their initiative click on one or more of the climbers’ profiles at the bottom of the web-page. Click ‘donate’ and help support them in their journey to heal children around the world.

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COMMUNITY

In their video series the Karak Time team are bringing Qatar's community to your doorstep

Voice Of

The People By Diana Farid Images courtesy of Karak Time

There’s a new online show that’s bringing together the stories and experiences of community groups and people who are making a positive difference towards life in Qatar. QH tunes in to Karak Time.

n a fast-paced country like Qatar, where many expats come with boundless dreams, it’s only fair that someone would think of a way to share these stories, inspire others and help develop the country. Karak Time is a local startup that uses online videos to profile the

Pass the cup and get to know your neighbour!

achievements of Qatar’s residents and push for more positivity and progress in Doha. “There are so many beautiful stories happening in Qatar,” says Deevina Visrolia, Karak Time’s co-founder. “Since each one of us is helping in one way or another in Qatar’s future, I guess it’s helpful to share these stories with the public masses to get inspired.” The show’s name stems from the local tradition of sharing stories over a cup of sweet, milky karak tea.

as the desert, oil and wealth, the World Cup and that’s it,” she explains. “People abroad are so ignorant about how it feels to live in Doha. That’s why I thought I want to come up with an idea of a social platform to share inspiring stories both inside and outside Qatar. ”Karak Time’s programming aspires towards a format that resonates with a distinctly Qatari feel – but with a global outreach to help eradicate the common misconceptions abroad about Qatar.

With her own passion for media and the joy of sharing, Visrolia moved to Qatar in 2011 and quickly discovered that much of the outside media attention on her new home didn’t tell the whole story. “I don’t like the fact that every time I go back home to England, people think of Qatar

Karak Time was co-created by The Youth Company’s founder Mohamed Farid and Deevina Visrolia, a former BBC designer and presenter on the children’s show, Deadly Art. “He came up with the idea of Karak Time because it’s so Qatari, aiming that when the web show goes

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global, it will be so evident that it’s coming out of Qatar,” she tells us. Its goal is when people go online and type in ‘Qatar’s National Vision 2030’ or ‘Qatar’, they’ll discover that the National Vision isn’t just a document, but also a series of real-life, inspiring stories. According to Deevina: “We’re adding the human dimension to the [2030] goals, which is pure goodness and pure happiness…so it ignites hope in others to believe in themselves and do well with their lives – just as the stories we share.”

ve stories in her team, highlighting the positi For Amal Al-Shammari (left) and Vision 2030 ibuting to the country's National contr of way their is unity Qatar's comm

Interviewing Karak Time founder Amal Al-Shammari (right)

Although Karak Time is meant to spread a positive message, the team had to face a lot of challenges in order to get off the ground – most of which were the financial expenses that they’re still struggling with. “Financing what we do is the most challenging part of the task,” says Deevina. “Because it’s tough, when we like a story, to [then] go ask the people to be featured to finance the shooting – but we’re still setting things up and can’t afford to incur the expenses ourselves. So now we’re trying to build the reputation and the brand so we’ll be able to get the sponsorship of big companies who wish to be part of [a] nice cause, inspiring others.” Despite the fact that the idea started only in mid-2014, the team has managed to learn a great deal of things in this short time due to their passion and belief in the strength of their idea. “My main aim is to spread positivity and happiness; this makes it tough because we want to cleverly and artistically shoot the inspiring stories we choose to share with the audience,” adds Deevina. The Karak Time team is keen to keep growing because they need more researchers and writers, but most importantly they need people to get in touch if they know of any story ideas worth sharing. ILoveQatar have come on-board in a show of support, dedicating a special section for Karak Time videos on their website (www.iloveqatar.net), providing them with some extra exposure in addition to their own social media. For Deevina and her colleagues, the sky’s the limit as to the future of the show’s potential. She hopes to build Karak Time in to a series where, at the end of each season, she can gather all the people featured in an auditorium with an audience so story-tellers and their viewership can interact and engage with another. “One of my goals is also to remove the barriers in such a diversified culture,” she says with a smile. “So I’m planning to build a big ‘K’-for-karak letter and place [it] in public, where we get two strangers, over karak, to talk to one another, share their stories and video-tape it. This will help break the barriers and share happiness as we go along.” They also hope to host charitable events to raise money for local causes at a later stage as well. To learn more about Karak Time, tune in at www.karaktime.org.n

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COMMUNITY

The Facts On Kids

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The habits you set in place for your children will last a lifetime − so start healthy and stay healthy

By Jacqueline Bodnar

The kind of diet we adopt in childhood sets a precedent for the rest of our lives. The effects of too much sugar in the body and its linkages to Type 2 diabetes are well-publicized. But how often do we think about the growing problem of elevated cholesterol levels in children? QH sheds some light on a fatty issue.

hen you think of cholesterol impacting someone’s health, you probably don’t think much about children. As it turns out, however, there’s a lot of evidence supporting the fact that we should be. As our children follow in their parents’ dietary and lifestyle footsteps, they often have health and weight problems as a result, and they’re also increasingly being found to have cholesterol abnormalities. The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in Atlanta, Georgia announced in early 2010 that research shows one in every five teens in the country have abnormal cholesterol levels. And while this news is alarming, many people are not quite sure what it means and what they should do about it. The good news is that learning to combat cholesterol at a young age helps create healthy habits that may last a lifetime. In order to help you make sense of it all, here are 10 tips and facts to keep in mind about cholesterol and your kids:

The American Heart Association reports that there’s evidence to show that atherosclerosis (the build-up of fatty plaque in the arteries) begins while we are children and slowly progresses during our adult years. Left untreated, it often develops into coronary heart disease, which is the number one cause of death in the country.

Too much cholesterol essentially clogs the arteries, which in turn restricts the flow of blood through them to the heart and other organs. The narrowing of the arteries from this build-up can cause major health problems. Cholesterol, according to the CDC, is a fatty, wax-like substance found in your body, as well as in food. When you eat food that contains a lot of cholesterol, it can build up in your body, turning into the plaque that clogs arteries.

Foods that contain cholesterol consist of those that come from animals, such as milk, cheese, chicken, beef, seafood, eggs, ice cream, etc. Cholesterol is of animal origin.

Three major factors contribute to high cholesterol levels: a diet high in fats (particularly trans-fats and saturated fat), obesity (which is related to a lack of exercise and diet), and heredity.

Kids who eat healthfully, are not overweight and get plenty of exercise are not likely to develop abnormal cholesterol levels.

According to the National Cholesterol Education Program (NCEP) in the US, the total cholesterol level for children ages 2 to 18 should be less than 170, with the LDL cholesterol being less than 110. Those who have higher rates should seek nutritional counseling aimed at reducing dietary fat and cholesterol, and at increasing physical activity. According to the CDC, eating a fibre-rich diet can help to reduce your cholesterol levels. Fibre is found in plant-based foods, so it’s important that children get at least five servings of fruits and vegetables per day, as well as whole-grain, high-fibre products such as bread, pasta and cereal.

The American Academy of Pediatrics (APA) does not recommend routine cholesterol screenings for all children. But they do recommend them for children whose parents have a history of high cholesterol levels or heart attacks prior to the age of 50.

According to the APA, children should be getting less than 30 percent of their daily calories from fat (with less than a third of that from saturated fat). They also recommend no more than 300 milligrams of cholesterol per day. Some animal-product foods contain high levels of cholesterol. For example, one egg has around 270 milligrams of cholesterol. To learn more about fostering healthy habits for your family, consider visiting a registered dietitian through a referral from your primary healthcare practitioner. n

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COMMUNITY

Listings

Community Guide QH RECOMMENDS

Australian and New Zealand Business in Qatar Group 6651-1892 www.anzbiq.org

American Women’s Association 5511-8085 www.awaqatar.com

Doha Players

4447-4911 Search ‘Doha Players Lovers’ Group on Facebook

MUSEUM OF ISLAMIC ART MIA Park Bazaar

Jan 3: With a vibrant mix of around 150 stalls, the MIA Park Bazaar is a modern version of the old souq tradition. You can browse and buy homemade and handmade products such as jewelry, arts and crafts, clothing, books and souvenirs. So if you’re looking for interesting or unusual gifts, the bazaar offers a wealth of options for both young and old. Held every first Saturday of the month from 12 noon till 8:00 p.m., entry is free of charge. For more information email MIAevents@qm.org.qa.

ONE OF A KIND

EVERY WEEK

KOREA TAEKWONDO CENTER QATAR Lessons For Kids

DOHA TWEETUPS Monthly Networking

Ongoing: Build stamina, skill and strength while learning to master this formidable martial art form. A range of class timings are available to fit into your family’s busy schedule including weekends, after-school and evenings. For more information call 4465-9066.

QATAR TOASTMASTERS Personal Growth

Jan 4 & 18: Looking to develop communication and leadership skills? Want to build your self-confidence? Look no further than Qatar Toastmasters Club. Master the art of public speaking in a supportive, multicultural group. The club meets on the first and third Sunday of the month, all year round. Please note that the first meeting for October has been moved to the second Sunday of the month due to the Eid Al Adha holidays. Meetings are at the Radisson Blu Hotel from 7:00 p.m. till 9:30 p.m. For more information call 5505-5275 or 5572-5293 or visit www.qatartoastmasters.net.

online! See us rhappening.com www.qata

Ongoing: If you’re new to Qatar, the Doha Tweetups is a great way to get involved and meet new people. This online community regularly hosts monthly ‘offline’ gatherings where people can network or enjoy themed presentations of local talent. Follow them on Twitter or Facebook to find out when and where the next event will be held, or email them at team@dohatweetups.com.

IAID Zumba

Sun-Thurs: Hilal St., Al-Tadamon Signal, D-Ring Road. Zumba is the latest dance fitness craze spreading fast world-wide. This upbeat workout is fantastic for kids and adults alike so come take part in an exhilarating class filled with positive energy and party-like fun. For more information call 4432-0974/4441-1234, visit www.iaidonline.org or email enquire@iaidonline.org.

DOHA MUMS Bounce & Rhyme

Tuesdays: A fun activity for parents, care-givers and children (newborns to pre-school age), with action songs, rhymes and stories that help children’s literacy and numeracy and are a great way for parents and guardians to brush up on their nursery rhymes! Recurs every Tuesday from 10:00 a.m. till 11:30 a.m. For more information visit www.dohamums.com.

Egyptian Women’s Association 5572-4171

French-Speaking Ladies Group 5559-7467

Indian Women’s Association 4442-4052

Qatar National Cancer Society 4447-8128 www.qncs.org

Red Dotters Qatar

5520-9294 Follow @RedDottersQatar on Twitter

Silver Dhow Association 4435-2598

Turkish Women’s Association www.twaq.org

Tuesday Ladies Group Email: tlgindoha@gmail.com

SASCOM: South Africans In Qatar

www.southafricansinqatar.netfirms.com

Canadians In Qatar

Search ‘Canadians In Qatar’ Group on Facebook to join the community

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Food & Dining

Top Picks

Coffee Planet Qatar Coming Soon Doha wouldn't be complete without tea and coffee, as most locals and expats take their comfort over a cup with friends and family. So it's good news for coffee lovers that another coffee shop is about to open through a partnership with AHB Group. Coffee Planet roasts fresh beans in its Dubai facilities, which are one-ofa-kind in the entire Middle East. Stay tuned for its newest location opening soon here in Qatar on Salwa Road.

Marriott Marquis City Center Doha Asparagus Promotion

Jan 14-27: Cucina. Come savour a menu intricately designed by their experienced Chefs using asparagus – the ‘Official Spring Vegetable’ as the key ingredient of inspiration. From QR 75. From 6:00 p.m. till 11:30 p.m. For more information call 4419-6100 or visit www.marriottmarquisdohadining.com.

Paper Moon Frutti Di Mare Night

Fridays: Jaidah Square. Enjoy a selection of freshly prepared seafood by Chef Fabrizio and his culinary team. From 6:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4016-6000.

The Grand Hyatt Rehab Brunch

Jan 9: The Grill. The Grill invites you to a rehab brunch after the holidays. Expect an Amy Winehouseinspired decor and theme, while DJ Katie Smiles entertains the crowd with the best tunes. Soft drinks brunch is priced at QR 295 and special beverage is for QR 420. For more information call 7798-2400.

Radisson Blu Tapas, Vino & Paint Event

Jan 27: Picasso’s. Have a go creating your very own painting to take away, while indulging on tasty tapas and selected vinos. QR 210. For more information call 4428-1555.

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Food & Dining The Jazz Club welcomes diners with an upscale ambiance and some truly stellar music

By Ashlee Starratt Photography by Jessie Palanca

We sample more than just the tunes in The Jazz Club at the Oryx Rotana. The hotspot is hopping on a Thursday night and with a re-vamped menu, new band and classic atmosphere it’s a sure bet to kick off your weekend.

here’s already people lined up to get into The Jazz Club as it opens its doors for happy hour at 5:00 p.m. Small, intimate and smoky, the space has a classy vibe that hearkens comparisons to Rat Pack-era New York. The glimmering bar provides a fore-drop to the stage where the club’s newest live musical act – all the way from Armenia and simply named The Band – are set to get rolling at 9:00 p.m. But for now, it’s happy hour and a DJ’s on the deck pumping some mellow tunes through the speakers. Tonight we’re here to sample three of the club’s new signature dishes – lest we remind you not to overlook the fact that The Jazz Club also hits its high notes as a restaurant too. The menu features new items conceptualized by the in-house culinary team and with everything ranging from steaks, to burgers, creative starters, seafood and salads, you’re bound to find something that will please your palate. First to be brought to our table is their new prawns kataifi appetizer. Bite-sized morsels of succulent shrimp are wrapped in kunafa ‘noodles’ instead of traditional batter, then deep-fried – an inspired spin on the standard norm with a regional flair. Served with baby corn salad and a punchy red harissa mayonnaise, they’re tasty poppers; the kunafa breading adds a nice blend of textures – crunchy and silky.

A Medley On The Plate

Next up is their signature Norwegian salmon steak with smoked olive oil, served with a chimichurri sauce and roast vegetables. Jazz Club regulars will remember their incredible BBQ-glazed salmon served with baby asparagus and grilled pineapple with a dash of cayenne. I wish they would bring that dish back. Though the salmon was a nice, hearty-portioned fillet, it was dry and needed more seasoning. The chimichurri sauce was lacking in that there wasn’t enough of it to coat the salmon (barely a spoon’s drizzle) and the roasted vegetables – carrot, asparagus and celery were practically raw. We hope this was a one-time oversight. After the surf, came the turf –with a slab of their 300-gram, Australian Black Angus rib-eye.

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The Norwegian salmon steak left much to be desired on this trip to the restaurant

The presentation for the steak was top-notch, served on a large wooden platter with a skillet of Pommery grain mustard mashed potatoes, grilled vegetables, Béarnaise sauce and a brown-sauce demi-glaze on the side. If you’re a steak novice, the rib-eye tends to be a fattier cut of meat, but here it was cooked mediumrare and we were able to easily trim away any excess. The Pommery mash was a knockout – a truly flavoursome way to punch up your standard potatoes. I preferred the brown-sauce for my steak; a savoury gravy, it went well not only with the meat but also poured over the mash and grilled veg. The Béarnaise was a miss; thick and bland, the notes of tarragon needed to be much stronger in order to make it the star of the side-dish show. Rounding out the evening’s courses was a truly five-star dessert – aptly named the Melt In Your Mouth. Think of a chocolate lava cake re-imagined and you’ll get the sweet picture. Served in a large bowl, it looks like a pudding dusted with icing sugar and served with a side of chocolate-drizzled vanilla bean ice cream, rolled in cookie crumble. Break the molten layer with your spoon and you’re mining the depths of a melted chocolate centre so rich and dense you’ll need to take breaks between bites. There is no dignified way to eat this – just prepare to get chocolate all over your face and enjoy! After dinner, as the band geared up to play, most of the tables in the house were full. This speaks to the continued longevity of what has always been one of the Oryx’s most popular outlets. Though its restaurant concept has gone through some revitalizing in terms of its menu and, as on this occasion, there are some hits and misses, the place still has much to offer. As a venue for live music in the city it’s in the top tier – and, like I said, there are enough options on the menu to find something to suit your taste. We’ve got our eye on their new pickle-back burger for next time! n The Jazz Club

The Jazz Club caters to meat-lovers with their succulent Australian Black Angus rib-eye

The prawns kataifi appetizer was a hit − spicy and sweet it's the perfect bite-sized crunch

Location: Ground floor, Oryx Rotana Timings: • 5:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m., daily • 5:00 p.m. till 8:00 p.m., happy hour Average Meal Price: • QR 75, Prawns kataifi • QR 140, Norwegian salmon steak • QR 199, Australian Black Angus rib-eye • QR 34, per side dish • QR 60, Melt in your mouth dessert Licensed: Yes Smoking: Yes Contact Info: Call 4402-3333 or visit www.rotana.com/oryxrotana

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Food & Dining

Aromas Of Egypt

By Jorge Granda Photography by Jessie Palanca

We head out to Katara to sample the traditional Egyptian cuisine at Khan Farouk Tarab Café to find out if the food and service at this cosy bistro matches its culinary competitors nearby.

han Farouk Tarab Café is tucked away on the far side of Katara’s amphitheatre close to Entrance 4. It’s shortly past noon on a quiet Sunday as we head inside to grab a table on its enclosed shisha terrace, pausing to relish its carefully-crafted Arabic look and feel. The Egyptian décor manifests itself all over, from the

table settings, to the chandeliers and upholstery design. The waiters are also wearing what resembles traditional Egyptian clothing – adding an extra touch of authenticity. As I arrive with my two companions the restaurant isn’t at its capacity, but a few patrons can be spotted at several tables adjacent to ours. The restaurant is big and is divided into four sections; for those who like brightness and an airy, open concept, I’d recommend sitting in the terrace area near the main entrance. A more private and secluded area and family section is situated inside near the kitchen. In general the restaurant is inviting; however, one thing customers should be aware of is that at the outset the service can be very slow. You need to catch the waiter’s attention in order to be given the menu – but after your order is taken the service becomes quick and the food is served very fast.

My lunch proved to be a very interesting and disappointing experience at the same time. My first course, a chicken-based soup of the day, was very creamy and delicious – so I was hoping to have the same luck with my starters and main, but this wasn’t really the case. Our appetizers consisted of falafel with sesame, traditional Egyptian bread and fatir mishaltet. The falafel tasted good, but lacked a bit of seasoning and condiments –it could’ve use a dipping sauce like tahini, and I’m surprised they don’t include this option. The fatir mishaltet, which is a hot, layered pastry, was kind of tasty but definitely not memorable. The menu says it comes served with cheese, ashta and honey, but what was brought to the table was very different. There was no cheese, but instead a mayonnaise-based vegetable spread that looked similar to a roasted red pepper dip; the ashta – for those who aren’t familiar –is like a clotted

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The fatir mishaltet with its layers of pastry and creamy accompaniments

Platter of crispy falafel

Heavy and homey, the baked rice with chicken finds its niche as a side-dish

Their lentil soup is a no-fail starter

Open and bright, the enclosed terrace is a nice spot for a leisurely lunch

cream that you can spread over the fatir; and in lieu of honey we were served what looked and tasted like blackstrap molasses. In my opinion, aside from the ashta, these accompaniments weren’t the right match for the fatir – but maybe that’s just my taste. For the main course I ordered the baked rice with chicken, while my one of my dining companions ordered it with lamb, and the other had the shish taouk sandwich, plus some lentil soup. The presentation of the soup and the baked rice earned top marks – served in piping-hot, burnished copper tureens. The lentil soup was warming and fragrant, but could have used an extra pinch of condiment such as cumin to give it more depth of flavour – we added quite a bit of salt and pepper. Though the baked rice with chicken and lamb was cooked to perfection, the dish also lacked flavour. Reminiscent of a

soufflé, you have to pierce a bubbling milk-skin on top of the bowl and dig down through mounds of glutinous rice to get to the pieces of meat at the bottom, which have been stewed in milk, salt and butter. The chicken and lamb were a bit dry and the rice very heavy – it’s a very simple dish which would be better ordered as an accompaniment to a saucier main course. I’ve eaten at Khan Farouk Tarab Café on many occasions before and on all my previous visits I’ve had outstanding meals. Their grilled chicken – which is what I usually order – is absolutely fantastic, so I guess we just had bad luck this time around. I do highly recommend visiting Khan Farouk Tarab Café the next time you’re feeling peckish at Katara; though I didn’t really experience the greatest meal on this particular day, the restaurant does serve an amazing selection of Egyptian food, including pigeon served in a variety of traditional dishes on the menu – a truly Egyptian delicacy. The restaurant also gets points for its price range, which is more than reasonable – for QR 140 you can fill up your belly with a three-course lunch. Next time, we’ll make sure to try one of their top specialties – seven different kinds of foul! n

The Egyptian way of serving shish taouk is more pita-style than shawarma, with tahini instead of garlic mayo

Khan Farouk Tarab Café Location: Building 7, Katara Cultural Village Timings: Open from 12:00 noon till 12:00 midnight Average Meal Price: • QR 18, Lentil Soup • QR 18, Falafel with Sesame • QR 42, Fatir Mishaltet • QR 58, Baked Rice with Chicken or Lamb • QR 32, Shish Taouk Sandwich Smoking: Yes, plus shisha Contact Info: Call 4408-0840/1 or visit www.khanfarouktarabcafe.com

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Food & Dining y The quinoa salad at Anima Galler & Lounge is proof positive that you the in don't have to sacrifice taste ! search for healthy options in Doha

2015: Clean And Lean

By Lynsey Riach Selected images courtesy of Anima Gallery & Lounge, Raw ME and Salad Boutique

Welcome to this New Year! A time where most of us set great intentions to eat healthier and move our bodies more. So what’s actually stopping us? Well nothing now as Doha (thankfully) welcomes this new trend in healthier options all over town. We show you some of the best spots to chow down guilt-free!

n the name of research, I’ve scoured and scoffed my way through some of the healthiest finds to deliver to you my round-up of places where health comes first – allowing you to turn this year into ‘2015: Clean And Lean’. From specialty food stores, to restaurants, to juice stalls that are all jumping on the bandwagon of sourcing locally, offering glutenfree, healthier menu options and all within a reasonable price range (to help with those financial goals you’ve also set for 2015) here they are…

Tea makes everything ok…

Keep your salad on trend…

Argo Tea, Landmark Mall Favourite: Green Tea Ginger Twist I’m British so of course I drink tea – a lot of tea – and on a cold Chicago day I found and fell in love with Argo tea. Brewing beautiful organic and ethically-sourced raw tea with a twist, it’s now here in Doha! Argo are passionate about bringing teas directly from growers around the world and blending them into unique and delicious signature brews. Committed to being a sustainable business by working with the best local and global tea and food artisans, they also contribute back to communities to promote a healthy lifestyle.

Salad Boutique, Aspire Zone Favourite: Egg Omelette & Mushroom Salad The first restaurant in town specializing in serving salads ‘as a main course’. (You had me at ‘salad’!) If, like me, you love to mix up greens into a huge bowl to create a salad masterpiece then you’ll love Salad Boutique as that’s exactly what they do, all within a boutique-style setting! But it’s not all tomato tomato – they also have a great edamame soup and even offer omelettes in their breakfast menu too – which wins my healthy and tasty vote! Located in Aspire Zone, beside the ladies sport hall. For more information visit www.saladboutique.com.

Choose your favourite tea from an iPad menu that delivers all nutritional content and ingredient information. Argo offers hot and cold signature flavours that are blended to bring a new twist to tea – and trust me, their tea is good…real good. Their dedication to "one customer and one cup at a time" rings true because these guys know their customers. They remember me and they remember my tea…every single time. Also on offer, healthy eats including fruit, fresh muffins and even some dishes that have a hint of tea such as the Earl Grey Chicken Pot with Quinoa. Located in Landmark Mall, Hamad International Airport and Gulf Mall opening soon. For more information visit www.argotea.com.

Take a shot – at juicing…

CMY

Robeks, Ezdan Mall Favourite: Heart Health Smoothie Venture upstairs to the food court and tucked away (among the usual junk suspects), you will find this little treasure. Whizzing up the freshest juices from the freshest fruits right in front of your very eyes, these guys have also been known to add a little entertainment with lemon and orange juggling. Just what you need to make you down that cayenne shot to boost your metabolism. And it’s not all kale…for those muscle machines you can also opt to add protein from Greek yogurt or whey protein (as found in their ‘800lb Gorilla’) to your ‘slurp du jour’, keeping you feeling fuller longer and building muscle. The diverse menu

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Food & Dining includes fun names such as ‘The Replenisher’, ‘Cardio Cooler’ and ‘Age Buster’ to get you smiling and slim in no time! For more information visit www.robeks.com.

find. Breakfast is often overlooked but just think – if you tuck into a hearty start to your day here, you won’t feel the need to over-indulge at that brunch later…

I’m turning vegetarian…

Jones is an Australian brand offering ethicallysourced produce driven by their desire to provide the best gourmet food for everyday living. With products sourced and selected from around the globe, this isn’t just a café, but also a food emporium focused on providing natural ingredients produced by specialist, artisan suppliers and take-home products ranging from premium tea leaves to artisan crackers, to handmade pasta sauces.

Vasanta Bhavan, Parco Mall Favourite: Masala Dosa & Coconut Naan The first to bring a vegetarian-only concept to the Middle East and open in Doha since 2007, this traditional Indian eatery offers up fresh, seasonal ingredients and culinary expertise for vegetarians alike with North and South Indian influence. With a varied menu of fresh juices, super-spicy curries and possibly the best naan bread (coconut!) I’ve ever tasted, it really is truly traditional and an excellent option for vegetarians, or those looking for something a little different with a healthy hint. Located in Parco Mall and Al Matr Street. For more information visit www.thevasantabhavan.com.

It’s art darling… Anima Gallery & Lounge, The Pearl-Qatar Favourite: Quinoa & Kale Soup Set in an art gallery with beautiful views over The Pearl, where else better to tuck into a crunchy quinoa salad, quinoa burger or quinoa wrap – do you see a trend? (It’s their signature ingredient!) But it’s not all superfood quinoa; there are freshly-made juices and soups designed to perfection by their in-house nutritionist. Set in a relaxed atmosphere, Anima Gallery & Lounge also offers a large variety of gluten-free options, from salads to sandwiches, to main courses and desserts. Located at The Pearl-Qatar, 17-30 La Croisette. For more information visit www.animagallerylounge.com.

I’ll need sprinkles with that… Stick House, Various Locations Favourite: Fig & Pistachio Stick Three words – Italian handcrafted gelato. Shall I continue? Ok…gelato on a stick! These refreshing concoctions are made from only 100% natural ingredients and made in accordance with traditional Italian gelato-making production. Crafted without preservatives, without colouring and without any synthetic flavouring, they deliver a quality, juicy treat that’s also glutenfree. Choose from a variety of flavours then, if you like – add toppings! With various locations now popping up across town, search out a healthy treat from Stick House at 199 Porto Arabia, The Pearl-Qatar, Landmark Mall, Souq Waqif and Al Wakrah. For more information visit www.stickhousesrl.com.

Forget the Friday fry-up… Jones the Grocer, The Gate Mall Favourite: Corn fritters with avocado salsa and poached egg For Friday morning breakfast, you may well find me here. Partially for the cute canteen-style setting, but mostly for the cleanest eats you can

Enjoy a healthy break amidst artsy e ambiance at Amina Gallery & Loung

ins Detox, hydrate and get your vitam all in a daily dose of Raw ME's juices

The main reason I go back time and time again comes down to the freshness of the food and ingredients. A team of expert bakers work hard in the wee hours of the morning to bring us the freshest bread and cakes. The salads are simple and classic, no oil and no additives. The fresh juices are actually fresh juice and where possible they offer organic produce. They also add new dishes and specials each month to keep regulars like me coming back for more. For more information visit www.jonesthegrocer.com.

The only home deliveries you need… Green Box We all know how many home-delivery food options are available around town, but could healthier options direct to your door be the new trend? I certainly like to think so, and these two get my vote…This is an awesome initiative that allows Doha residents to not only order a weekly box of fresh fruits and vegetables (for QR 150) from the comfort of their own home and delivered straight to their front door, but also a range of organic foods and drinks including teas, baby foods, grains, eggs, honey and much more. For more information visit www.the-box.me. Raw ME 100% healthy juice to your door? Yes please. You’ve probably heard of Raw ME, the country’s first-ever raw, vegan company providing fresh juice and detox packages to Doha’s residents – but have you actually tried out their juices? I have and I love all they have to offer…tasting complete and utter freshness in one drink! A variety of juices are available, from gorgeous greens to bright beets. Sourcing all of their produce from local and regional farms, juices are whizzed up and delivered to you the very next day to lock in their goodness. With single bottles or cleanse packages available, you can also now see their ‘Juicy Bike’ at random and various locations across town! But it’s not all juices…the company now offers a Fruit Basket delivery service direct to your workplace to curb junk food snacking! For more information visit www.raw-me.com.

seriously Salad Boutique serves up some choice bowls of leafy goodness

Following a healthy diet full of fresh fruit and vegetables has been proven to provide us with more energy, gain less weight and fight disease. So with all these new offerings, get out there and enjoy all our Doha has to offer with these healthy bites and fruity finds!. n Lynsey Riach is a qualified yoga instructor living and working in Doha. You can normally find her walking her dog, on her yoga mat or blending up fruit smoothies. To learn more about her services visit www.andstretchyoga.com.

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Food & Dining

Word Of Mouth Photography by Jessie Palanca

This column is part of a monthly contest where we send one of our readers to experience a meal at a restaurant. It’s our way of giving the community a voice in our pages. This month Linzi Gaston sinks her teeth into some prime cuts at New York Steakhouse in the Marriott Marquis City Center Doha. Here is her review.

QH: What did you order?

QH: Describe the ambiance.

LG: • Alaskan King crab-cakes, QR 95 • Pacific shrimp cocktail, QR 95 • 250g Black Angus fillet mignon, QR 190 • Garlic cream prawns, QR 55 • Butter mash, QR 25 • Gratinated Dauphinoise potatoes, QR 25 • Onion rings, QR 25 • Pineapple carpaccio • Pavlova • Signature chocolate dessert, sent over by the chef

LG: Welcoming décor, great furniture and very spacious with a relaxed feel. Music plays at just the right volume to give the restaurant a good vibe, without being overpowering.

QH: Were the prices reasonable? LG: [They’re] reasonable compared to similar restaurants in Doha.

QH: Describe the quality of the food. LG: Both the quality and presentation of the food was excellent – some of the best we’ve had in Doha. It’s obvious that the chef and his team are passionate about what they do. The presentation of the Pacific shrimp cocktail was fantastic, ‘an old classic, remastered’, and the Australian Wagyu just melted on the tongue.

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The restaurant's red and leather décor reflects well with the richness of the menu

Contest winner Linzi Gaston and guest with Chef Jeremy Steele (left)

The Black Angus filet mignon, char-grilled to the chef's recommendation

The Pacific shrimp cocktail's eye-catching presentation

Our waiter, Phil was extremely knowledgeable about the menu and was on-hand to offer his recommendations as well as ensure our dining pleasure. QH: Would you go back? Why/why not? LG: Definitely – great food, great service and very comfy chairs! A sweet ending of signature desserts

Although we were extremely full after our mains, we managed to squeeze in dessert. The pineapple carpaccio was extremely light but bursting with flavour, and the signature chocolate dessert was heavenly – as soon as I cut into it the warm chocolate oozed out of the centre. A great recommendation from our waiter, Phil, thank you!

QH: Favourite thing about the restaurant?

QH: Could the overall experience be improved? If so, how?

LG: The passion and enthusiasm in delivering top-quality food and top-quality service that is evident from every member of staff.

LG: It would be great to see a live jazz band playing on the weekend – this would create a great atmosphere. n

QH: Least favourite thing about the restaurant? LG: Nothing. QH: Was there a special touch or flair to the experience?

QH: Describe the quality of the service. LG: From the moment we walked out of the lift, until the moment we left, each and every member of staff made us feel very welcome and were extremely attentive to our needs.

Chubby onion rings, gratinated d veg Dauphinoise potatoes and roaste

LG: It was great to speak to the Chef, Jeremy, and see him walking around the restaurant talking to various guests. It’s obvious he loves what he does and is keen to keep the New York Steakhouse going from strength to strength.

For more information on New York Steakhouse call 4419-6100 or visit www.marriottmarquisdohadining.com.

Editor’s Note: The views and opinions expressed in our reader reviews do not reflect in any way those of Qatar Happening Magazine’s staff, directors, management or Editor-in-Chief. All hotel PR food and beverage departments are aware of the content and receive a copy.

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Food & Dining

Listings

QH RECOMMENDS

All listings are categorized per hotel. Inclusion is limited to availability of space, with priority given to advertisers. THE FOUR SEASONS A Tour Around Asia Cooking Class Upon request: Nusantao: Sea Kitchens. Take a tour around Asia and choose your favourite cuisine – Chinese, Japanese, Thai, Indian or Indonesian. Your personal chef will guide you with their special tips and tricks. You may book your cooking class for a minimum group of four people. QR 500 per person. From 4:00 p.m. till 7:00 p.m. For more information call 4494-8601.

Signature Lunch

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA Traditional Greek Menu

Sundays: Mykonos. Enjoy an extraordinary Greek dining experience complemented by a selection of mixed dips and salads, some rustic Greek favourites and finishing with homemade desserts. QR 150 per person. From 6:30 p.m. till 10:30 p.m. For more information call 4484-4074/4484-4444 or email Mykonos@ihg.com.

Making it easier to navigate at your fingertips, we’ve categorized all our listings per outlet – brunches, business lunches and weekly/daily promotions.

SPECIAL PROMOTIONS CROWNE PLAZA DOHA – THE BUSINESS PARK Be Social Brunch

Fridays: Aramede. Socialize with friends at this new brunch destination in town and enjoy a selection of international dishes and signature drinks. Entertainment provided by DJ’s streaming live from around the world. QR 255 all you can eat and drink. From 12:30 noon till 4:00 p.m. For more information call 4408-7777.

GRAND HERITAGE DOHA Exclusive Gazebos

Daily: Blue. Reserve your private gazebo on Blue’s ‘award-winning’ outdoor terrace for all those specially-celebrated occasions! With a beautiful view overlooking the Aspire gardens, a themed setup to suit your occasion and welcome drink to make you and your guests feel at home, the enjoyment is yours for QR 350 per gazebo. From 12:30 noon till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4445-5555.

Sushi & Steak

Saturdays: Blue. Enjoy a sharing sushi platter along with your choice of US tenderloin steak for QR 215 per person. An option of Wagyu beef is available for an additional QR 50. From 12:30 noon till midnight. For more information call 4445-5555.

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA THE CITY Izakaya Mondays: Strata. The restaurant transforms into a traditional Japanese after-work haunt known as an izakaya, serving a special menu including sashimi and sushi, as well as a variety of other hot and cold Japanese dishes. QR 200 per person for food only, QR 320 per person including unlimited vino service for two hours or QR 280 per person including three beers. From 6:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4015-8888.

LA CIGALE Indulge At Di Capri

Daily: Di Capri. The Italian bistro is back with a dazzling new decoration and contemporary menu that boasts the special gastronomic stamp of Italian Chef Luca Dal Col. Open from 12:00 noon till 3:00 p.m. and from 7:00 p.m. till 11:30 p.m. For more information call 4428-8840.

PAPER MOON Never-Ending Pasta Night

Saturdays: Jaidah Square. Come and delight in an endless feast of special Italian homemade pastas at the ‘Never-Ending Pasta Night’. From 6:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. for QR 120. For more information call 4016-6000.

Sun-Thurs: Nusantao: Sea Kitchens. Savour the most exquisite Pan-Asian lunch from Nusantao and choose your set of six courses for lunch and delight in an exotic taste of their Bento Box. QR 110. From 12:00 noon till 3:00 p.m. For more information call 4494-8601.

Il Teatro New Menu

Daily: Il Teatro. Arriving directly from The Four Seasons Hotel Milan, Chef Marco Arlotti, the new head chef for Il Teatro, has created a brand new a-la-carte menu to tempt the palates of Doha diners. Lunch is served from 12:00 p.m. till 3:00 p.m., and dinner from 7:00 p.m. till 11:30 p.m. For more information call 4494-8631.

Cook With Chef Marco

Upon request: Il Teatro. Experience the true way of Italian cooking! With many years of experience cooking with the famous Chef Sergio Mei from Milan, Chef Marco will show you some tips and tricks of the trade to enable you to cook Italian dishes in the comfort of your kitchen. You can book a cooking class at your desired time, provided there are a minimum of four participants. QR 500 per person for a four-course set menu. For more information call 4494-8631.

THE GRAND HYATT Lombardy Promotion

Jan 4-11: Rocca. Experience Italy like never before at Rocca with a Lombardy promotion. Italian Chef Marco will introduce a special a la carte menu inspired from the region’s cuisine. For more information call 7021-8096.

Celebrate Christmas The Russian Way

Jan 10: The Grill. Celebrate a traditional Russian Christmas brunch with a live DJ playing the best traditional Russian Christmas tracks. Put your national costume on and the best one will get a chance to win a weekend stay at The Grand Hyatt Doha. Book your soft beverage brunch package for QR 295 or QR 420 for a special beverage package. For more information call 7021-8096.

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WYNDHAM GRAND REGENCY Moroccan Brunch

Fri & Sat: Tangia Restaurant. The restaurant presents a traditional Moroccan brunch with a variety of tagines, salads and Moroccan bread for only QR 149 per person. From 12:00 noon till 4:00 p.m. For more information call 4434-3203/3333 or email wgrf&b@wyndham.com.

REGULAR PROMOTIONS CHOWKING Indo-Chinese Menu & Value Meals

Daily: Tuck in to the new flavours at Chowking with their delectable Indo-Chinese menu. Also, enjoy dinner for two for QR 70-80 including soft drinks. Available at all restaurant locations, serving the best taste at the best price. For more information call Delivery Hotline: 4431-1212, Mamoura: 4486-6077, Al Khor: 4411-8816/17, Salwa Road: 4437-1212, Al Sadd St.: 4431-4411, Holiday Villa Hotel: 4411-5225/335.

CROWNE PLAZA DOHA – THE BUSINESS PARK Phoenician Night

Mondays: Aramede. Enjoy a wide variety of Lebanese and Oriental specialties and Arabic desserts, all for QR 150. From 6:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4408-7777.

Seafood Night

Wednesdays: Aramede. Indulge yourself in their extensive selection of the freshest catch with live cooking stations for QR 195. From 6:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4408-7777.

Italian Night

Thursdays: Aramede. Have a taste of the unique flavours of Italian cuisine with entertainment from their resident violinist, all for QR 150. From 6:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4408-7777.

DOHA MARRIOTT JW’s Steakhouse

Daily: Marriott’s signature restaurant and still the best in the city, JW’s Steakhouse offers an exclusive, upscale dining experience reflected in the sophisticated atmosphere and classic décor. JW’s main courses feature only the finest cuts of US Certified Prime Angus Beef complemented by exquisite spices and sauces. Seafood and salad are also available. From 6:30 p.m. till 11:30 p.m. For more information call 4429-8499.

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Food & Dining Weekend Brunch Al Fresco-Style

Fri & Sat: The View Pool Bar & Grill. The View is a beautifully-designed, terrace-style space located directly on the pool deck with excellent views over the Doha city skyline. Enjoy your weekend brunch under the sun at the only outdoor pool terrace in Doha! Stop by with a friend and join in for their daily Happy Hour from 5:00 p.m. till 8:00 p.m. and enjoy the fantastic views and atmosphere that The View has to offer! Also open daily from 11:00 a.m. till 12:00 midnight. Happy Hour is from 5:00 p.m. till 8:00 p.m. For more information call 4429-8499.

Weekend Brunch

Fri & Sat: Restaurant Gallery. Discover an array of live stations and specialties featuring favourite dishes from around the globe. Highlights from the weekend brunch include a wide selection of fresh sushi, Peking duck, fajitas, Oriental grills, pizza, curries, biryanis, fresh seafood, ice cream and more. Now offering a kids’ club zone with a special kids’ buffet and activities. QR 270 for regular brunch and QR 375 for bubbly brunch. From 12:30 noon till 4:00 p.m. For more information call 4429-8499.

GRAND HERITAGE DOHA Modern Turkish Cuisine

Mon-Sat: Agora. Offering modern Turkish and Ottoman dishes inspired by the Black Sea and the Balkan regions, with Mediterranean touches. From 1:00 p.m. till 11:30 p.m. For more information call 4445-5555.

Spanish Tapas

Daily: Blue. Channel the vivacious spirit of Spain with the restaurant’s delicious contemporary tapas lunchtime menu. From 12:30 noon till 12:00 midnight. For more information call 4445-5555.

Family Brunch

Fridays: Blue. Enjoy a sophisticated brunch with special kids’ activities in the exclusivelydesigned area adjacent to the restaurant. QR 220 including one round of soft drinks. From 12:30 noon till 4:00 p.m. For more information call 4445-5555.

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA Seafood Brunch

Fridays: Fish Market. Indulge in a luxurious buffet and a market display featuring lobsters, oysters and tiger prawns. Choose from a wide range of beverage options to complement your meal while enjoying the stunning views of the Arabian Sea and Doha’s skyline. QR 375 including unlimited house beverages and QR 160 for kids with unlimited soft drinks. From 12:30 noon till 3:30 p.m. For more information call 4484-4919 or 4484-4444.

Listings Grill & Share

Mondays: Mykonos. Enjoy a variety of mezze with a selection of salads, starters and dips, followed by a BBQ mix platter freshly-prepared on their grills and end up with a selection of Greek desserts, all for QR 160. From 6:30 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4484-4919 or 4484-4444.

Grand Mussel Brunch

Fridays: Belgian Café. Enjoy unlimited pots of mussels and Belgian house beverages alongside traditional Belgian salads and dessert buffet for only QR 275. From 12:30 noon till 3:30 p.m. For more information call 4484-4919 or 4484-4444.

Mussel Madness

Saturdays: Belgian Café. Every Saturday is ‘Mussel Madness’. If you can handle a half-kilo of mussels, Belgian fries and a pint of suds all for QR 99, then visit the Belgian Café. For more information call 4484-4919 or 4484-4444.

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA THE CITY Best Pan-Asian Food Sun-Fri: Hwang. In the casual yet refined setting of the new pan-Asian restaurant, Hwang, you will enjoy a truly eclectic Asian experience. They offer the finest cuisine from eight different Asian countries. In addition, Hwang is the first five-star hotel restaurant in Doha to offer the unique shabu-shabu hot-pot concept. From 6:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4015-8888.

Seafood Night

Wednesdays: The Square. Delectable, locally-sourced seafood is served every Wednesday from 6:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. Cold seafood salads, fresh seafood cooked ‘a la minute’ at the live cooking stations and a delectable dessert station will make it a night to remember. QR 350 per person including selected house beverages or QR 250 per person inclusive of soft drinks and mocktails. For more information call 4015-8888.

Friday Brunch

Fridays: The Square. Featuring four interactive kitchens specializing in cuisines from Japan, China, India, Thailand, Europe and the Middle East, The Square is the place to be for an indulgent day out. Choose from four distinct seating areas before sampling an array of starters, main courses and sumptuous desserts. QR 330 including selected house beverages, or QR 230 including soft drinks and mocktails. From 12:00 noon till 4:00 p.m. For more information call 4015-8888.

Travel The Globe Each Night

Sun- Fri: The Square. Every night at The Square is a celebration with a different themed buffet! Also visit the live cooking stations preparing dishes a la minute, and cap off the evening with a sweet treat from their huge selections of desserts. Friday to Sundays is International Night. Mondays are Mediterranean Night and Tuesdays are Asian Night. QR 180 excluding beverages. QR 250 including unlimited house beverages. From 6:00 p.m. till 11:30 p.m. For more information call 4015-8888 or email doharestaurants@ihg.com.

KEMPINSKI RESIDENCES & SUITES Signature Camel Burger Daily: Aroma, The Lounge and Gourmet House. The talk-of-the-town signature camel burger is one of Kempinski’s best-selling food items – known for its rich and distinctive combination of tastes that sets it apart from other burgers. For more information call 4405-3325, email restaurants.doha@kempinski.com, or visit www.kempinski.com/doha.

Steak & Vino Menu

Daily: Aroma. Enjoy the most succulent and tender steaks, perfectly combined with superb grilling, tasty accompaniments and a flawlessly matched glass of vino. From 7:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4405-3325, email restaurants.doha@kempinski.com or visit www.kempinski.com/doha.

Breakfast Eggsperience

Daily: Gourmet House. Considered by many as one of the top breakfast spots in the city, Gourmet House serves the Breakfast Eggsperience. Enjoy coddled eggs with your choice of spinach, bresaola or salmon, your favourite bread roll from their famous selection, a cup of tea or coffee and a scone with cream and jam for a sweet ending – all for QR 50 per person every morning. From 7:00 a.m. till 11:30 a.m. For more information call 4405-3326, email gourmet.doha@kempinski.com or visit www.kempinski.com/doha.

Business Lunch

Sat-Thurs: Aroma. Kempinski’s Executive Chef Vinon Yergu has revamped the popular business lunch menu with creative, healthy and fresh options. Savour culinary creations such as the chilled vanilla and orange soup, the vegetable moussaka, and finish off with the sweet indulgence of the lemongrass crème brûlée. QR 95 per person from 12:00 noon till 3:00 p.m. For more information call 4405-3325, email restaurants.doha@kempinski.com or visit www.kempinski.com/doha.

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LA CIGALE International Cuisine

Daily: Le Cigalon. Indulge in an extravagant buffet breakfast, lunch and dinner with a la carte option available. Buffet breakfast is QR 130 and buffet lunch or dinner with live-cooking stations is QR 220 inclusive of American coffee or tea. From 6:30 a.m. till 11:30 p.m. For more information call 4428-8698.

Sushi Mania

Daily: Yen Sushi Bar. Partake in the best sushi and sashimi served on a special rotating belt and colourcoded, plated formula along with an a la carte menu option as well. From 11:30 a.m. till 12:00 midnight. For more information call 4428-8698.

LA VARENNE French Country Brunch

Fridays: Indulge in La Varenneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s interpretation of a table-top brunch. Enjoy a full-course, allyou-care-to-eat menu with sharing-style dishes showcasing an array of the best La Varenne classics, along with their hors d'oeuvres and dessert trolleys. QR 179 for regular brunch and QR 379 per person with selected drinks. From 12:00 noon till 4:00 p.m. For more information call 4499-0680 or email reservations@lavarenne.qa.

Rotisserie Night

Saturdays: Delight your taste-buds with an unlimited offering of rotisserie chicken, meat and fish with a selection of side orders for QR 179 per person. From 7:00 p.m. till 10:00 p.m. For more information call 4499-0680 or email reservations@lavarenne.qa.

Business Lunch

Sat-Thurs: Enjoy the most exquisite French business lunch in Doha with two courses for QR 85 and three courses for QR 95. For more information call 4499-0680 or email reservations@lavarenne.qa.

MARRIOTT MARQUIS CITY CENTER DOHA Smoking Beef Daily: New York Steakhouse. For the first time in Doha, treat yourself to their bourbon-barrel, woodchip-smoked beef tartare, prepared and smoked by their brilliant hosts right in front of you! QR 105, from 6:30 p.m. till 11:30 p.m. For more information call 4419-6100 or visit www.marriottmarquisdohadining.com.

Three Countries, One Platter

Daily: New York Steakhouse. Taste three origins of beef tenderloin as Chef Jeremy Steele presents 100 gm cuts from the U.S.A, Argentina and Australia on one succulent plate. Treat yourself to three glasses of vino from each homeland carefully paired to perfection. QR 280 and QR 390 including vino pairing. From 6:30 p.m. till 11:30 p.m. For more information call 4419-6100 or visit www.marriottmarquisdohadining.com.

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Food & Dining Tomahawk – Can You Handle It?

Daily: New York Steakhouse. Can you handle the largest steak in Doha? This is definitely the talk of the town! Choose from 1kg or 2kgs of flavourful Tomahawk Wagyu rib-eye. QR 690 for 1kg and QR 1,280 for 2kgs. From 6:30 p.m. till 11:30 p.m. For more information call 4419-6100 or visit www.marriottmarquisdohadining.com.

Pizza & Pasta Express

Daily: Cucina. Order any one of Cucina’s pizza or pastas along with a side dish and one soft beverage for just QR50! From 12:00 noon till 6:00 p.m. For more information call 4419-6100 or visit www.marriottmarquisdohadining.com.

Business Express Lunch

Sun-Thurs: Cucina. Choose from three entrées, three mains and three desserts made from the freshest Italian ingredients and served in 45 minutes or it’s on them – all for QR 85. From 12:00 noon till 3:00 p.m. For more information call 4419-6100 or visit www.marriottmarquisdohadining.com.

MÖVENPICK HOTEL DOHA New & Inspired Theme Nights

Daily: Season Restaurant. Take your taste-buds on an exciting journey with a variety of new theme nights, plus some old favourites! Les Alpes Mondays: The restaurant has combined the finest delicacies of France, Italy and Switzerland to fashion an exclusive gourmet event. QR 160 per person. Lebanese Tuesdays: Savour enticing Middle Eastern delicacies combined with authentic drinks and desserts. QR 160 per person. TemptAsian Wednesdays: Taste the creativity of the Japanese sushi or the tang of the Thai curry among many others. QR 160 per person. Seafood & Family Thursdays: Tuck into a simply spectacular buffet of fresh and succulent seafood while the kids play their hearts out in the famous Kids Kingdom with an array kiddie treats. QR 180 per person. Naughty Food Gone Good Fridays: Enjoy all your tasty indulgences minus the guilt with an array of health- conscious junk food to choose from. QR 140 per person. International Saturdays & Sundays: Indulge in a colourful collection of international creations. QR 140 per person. For more information on all promotions call 4429-1111.

Friday Family Brunch Seasons Restaurant. Indulge in an elegant yet casual experience with free-flowing bubbly and enchanting music to complement the tasty buffet delights including fresh seafood, live cooking and sushi, plus an endless assortment of appetizers and dessert. QR 215 per person with kids under twelve dining free and those between the ages of twelve and sixteen receiving a 50% discount. Brunch with bubbles or suds for QR 245. For more information on all promotions call 4429-1111.

Listings ORYX ROTANA X'Press Lunch and Dinner

Daily: The Cellar. It’s quick-bite time and The Cellar is ready for it! Enjoy their new three-course set menu including a large variety of starters, main dishes and desserts for only QR 95 per person for lunch and QR 150 per person for dinner guaranteed to be served in 60 minutes. For more information call 4402-3333.

New Tapas Galore Selection

Tuesdays: The Cellar. Enjoy The Cellar’s array of tantalizing tapas with unlimited selected vinos for only QR 300 per person, or QR 160 per person for food-only. For more information call 4402-3333.

Latin Night

Sundays: Choices. Enjoy a unique concept and indulge in a Latin American buffet from 7:00 p.m. till 11:30 p.m. for QR 210 per person food only, or QR 300 including unlimited selected house beverages. Also try their premium package for QR 345 which includes unlimited sparkling vino, house spirits, selected digestives and aperitifs. Or, there’s also their unlimited prosecco package which includes all beverages in the premium package, except sparkling vino for QR 425. For more information call 4402-3333.

Asian Night

Mondays: Choices. Take a culinary journey around Asia as Choices’ expert Thai, Indonesian and Filipino chefs prepare an exquisite buffet of authentic Far Eastern cuisine for QR 200 per person for food only, or QR 290 including unlimited selected house beverages. Also try their premium package for QR 335 including unlimited sparkling vino, house spirits, selected digestives and aperitifs. Or there’s also their unlimited Prosecco package which includes all beverages in the premium package, except sparkling vino for QR 425. For more information call 4402-3333.

RADISSON BLU Paella Night

Mondays: Picasso’s. Visit the restaurant and enjoy the most delicious paella in town. Dishes priced between QR 55 to QR 100. From 6:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4428-1555.

Weekend Brunch

Fridays: Hyde Park. Let the team of chefs tempt you with fresh seafood, sushi, Chinese, Indian and European specialties. QR 180 per person or QR 210 per person including a little sparkle! From 12:00 noon till 3:00 p.m. For more information call 4428-1555.

THE ANVIL ROOMS Lunch Special

Daily: Choose a succulent and tender signature steak, a side dish, a sauce and a soft drink for QR 149. Friday and Saturday includes a sommelier’s selected drink for QR 179. From 12:00 noon till 3:00 p.m. For more information call 4499-0685 or email reservations@theanvilrooms.qa.

The Blacksmith’s Supper

Sun-Thurs: Choose a signature steak, a side dish, a sauce and a signature drink for QR 149. From 5:30 p.m. to 6:45 p.m. For more information call 4499-0685 or email reservations@theanvilrooms.qa.

THE FOUR SEASONS The Perfect Lunch

Sat-Thurs: Nusantao: Sea Kitchens. Longing for a sensational lunch from the Far East, but short on time? Personally design your perfect lunch to suit your taste and schedule by choosing from an extensive selection of dishes. From a one-course to a six-course lunch, Chef Kato’s exclusive Bento Box will delight your palate. From QR 55. From 12:00 noon until 3:00 p.m. For more information call 4494-8601.

Piatto Unico

Sat-Thurs: Il Teatro. ‘Piatto Unico’in Italian literally means a ‘one-dish meal’ that is well-balanced, healthy and bountiful. The chef is delighted to share this unique Italian lunch on a weekly changing basis to suit all tastes. Perfect for those who don’t have much time for lunch and offers great value for a true Italian experience. QR 88 per person. From 12:00 noon till 3:00 p.m. For more information call 4494-8631.

Go Go Bento Box

Sat-Thurs: Nusantao: Sea Kitchens. The Go Go Bento Box is a take-away bento box that gives you four different menus for a delicious, easy meal. Boxes have to be ordered in advance over the phone and pick-up times will be advised (allow 45 minutes preparation time). The boxes are composed of four to six dishes, all cooked to order and packed with authentic flavours. From QR 79 for a four-course bento to QR 89 for a six-course bento. From 12:00 noon till 3:00 p.m., and from 7:00 p.m. till 10:00 p.m. For more information call 4494-8601.

Friday Brunch

Fridays: Nusantao: Sea Kitchens. Start the weekend on a leisurely note with their Friday Brunch, which offers an array of delicious dining choices to enjoy. The main buffet is a showcase of live Asian cooking stations, as well as hot and cold appetizers and a traditional carvery. Regular brunch is QR 340 and sparkling brunch is QR 425. From 12:00 noon till 4:00 p.m. For more information call 4494-8601.

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THE GRAND HYATT Curry Nights

Mondays: Isaan. The Thai restaurant offers an all-you-can-eat curry night. Every Monday from 7:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m., you can order a variety of unlimited curry to share, with your choice of fish, beef, chicken, mussels or vegetables. You can share up to five curries per round, for only QR 75 per person. For more information call 7021-8097.

Chatuchak Weekend Market Brunch Fridays: Isaan. Get an outstanding Thai Chatuchak Weekend Market experience, every Friday for brunch from 12:30 noon till 4:00 p.m. Walk around and explore the colourful array of live cooking stations and market-like stalls. A range of options is available. Enjoy a soft drink brunch for QR 280, a special beverage package for QR 395 and the MoĂŤt brunch for QR 680. For more information call 7021-8097.

THE ST. REGIS DOHA Burger &Pint Night

Mondays: Opal by Gordon Ramsay. Enjoy the tastiest and juiciest burger in Doha! Choose from lamb, Wagyu beef, or Opalâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s vegetarian burger served with fluffy fat fries and homemade tomato sauce all for QR 100. From 6:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4446-0000, or email opalbygordonramsay@stregis.com.

Gourmet Chilli-Dog Nights

Tuesdays: Opal by Gordon Ramsay. Tuesday night is officially Gourmet Chilli-Dog Night. Enjoy the tastiest chilli-dogs in town served with bubbles or brews and includes ice-cream for dessert, all for QR 125. From 6:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4446-0000 or email opalbygordonramsay@stregis.com.

Seafood Extravaganza

Mon-Sat: Al Sultan Brahim. Famous for its fresh and varied seafood Al Sultan Brahim is also the place to enjoy traditional Lebanese mezze favourites all cooked from secret traditional recipes by chefs from Lebanon. From 6:30 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4446-0000 or email diningreservations@stregis.com.

Family Brunch

Fridays: Vine Restaurant. Gather with family and friends and experience a lavish buffet with treats for everyone. Parents can relax as children are taken care of with special entertainment and buffet. Live music and breath-taking views from the terrace make this a brunch to remember! Entertainment for children is provided by The St. Regis Doha recreation team and includes fun games, face-painting and lots of creative activities. QR 320 inclusive of soft drinks, QR 420 inclusive of grapes, grain and sparkling beverages. From 12:30 p.m. till 4:00 p.m.; then enjoy the After-Brunch Happy Hour with 50% off on selected beverages from 4:00 p.m. till 6:00 p.m. For more information call 4446-0000, or email diningreservations@stregis.com.

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Food & Dining THE TORCH DOHA Theme Nights At Flying Carpet

Escape To India: Each Monday night try out Indian food platters for only QR 180 per person including selected beverages. Tex- Mex Night: Every Wednesday try Latino specialties with a wide selection of steaks, burgers and hot dogs for only QR 190 per person. Seafood Extravaganza: Every Thursday night find a selection of seafood for grilling, frying, wok and many more for only QR 250 per person including selected beverages. Arabian Nights: Every Friday live the charm of the Orient and indulge in a variety of plates from different Arabic cuisines for QR 200 per person. From 7:00 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. For more information call 4446-5600, or email reservation@thetorchdoha.com.

Casual Business Lunch

Sun-Thurs: Mezzanine. Served from Sunday to Thursday, enjoy a fantastic business lunch that includes salad buffet plus a la carte sandwiches or pasta, one soft drink or chilled juice and a mini-dessert from QR 80 per person. For more information call 4446-5600, or email reservation@thetorchdoha.com.

Barbecue Bazaar Brunch

Fridays: Flying Carpet. Choose from a wide selection of steaks, Oriental BBQ, fish, burgers, and hot dogs for only QR 199 per person including selected beverages. From 12:30 noon to 3:30 p.m. Special rate of QR 95 for children between the ages of six and twelve years-old. For more information call 4446-5600, or email reservation@thetorchdoha.com.

W DOHA Burger Night

Sundays: Market by Jean-Georges. Start your week with your favourite burger, side dish and one amazing sundae from the selection – all for QR 125 per person. From 6:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4453-5135 or email bnfreservations.wdoha@whotels.com.

Sip & Savour

Sat-Thurs: Spice Market. Try Spice Market’s signature cocktails and drinks alongside a combination of mouth-watering snacks with a 50% discount on selected beverages. For more information call 4453-5135 or email bnfreservations.wdoha@whotels.com.

Business Lunch

Sat-Thurs: Market by Jean-Georges. Choose your favourite starter, main course and dessert in just half an hour at QR 95 for a three-course meal. From 12:00 noon till 4:00 p.m. For more information call 4453-5135, or email bnfreservations.wdoha@whotels.com.

Listings Jazz Brunch

Express Lunch

Friday Broonch

All-Day Dining

Fridays: Market by Jean-Georges. Enjoy a delicious brunch with live entertainment by Doha Jazz. QR 395 per person including house beverages, or QR 290 including soft drinks. For more information call 4453-5135 or email bnfreservations.wdoha@whotels.com.

La Spiga. Amplify your flavours with a chic, Italian a la carte brunch. QR 220 per person with selected soft drinks, QR 220 per person with a 25% discount on house beverages, or QR 380 per person with selected house beverages. From 12:00 noon till 4:00 p.m. For more information call 4453-5135 or email bnfreservations.wdoha@whotels.com.

WYNDHAM GRAND REGENCY Marrakesh Night

Thursdays: Tangia Restaurant. Enjoy an authentic Marrakesh buffet in Tangia Restaurant. Gentlemen pay QR 240 and ladies QR 200. Every Thursday from 6:30 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4434-3203/3333 or email wgrf&b@wyndham.com.

Sun-Thurs: Baraha. Stop by Baraha restaurant to try their new Express Business Lunch, specially-crafted by their Executive Chef for busy professionals at only QR 75 per person! For more information call 4447-0000 or email baraha@zubarah.com.

Daily: Baraha. Indulge in Oriental and international flavours of cuisine at Baraha. Tantalizing dishes served round-the-clock, from buffet breakfast a la carte, to an express lunch and a la carte dinner with an option of al fresco seating. For more information call 4447-0000 or email baraha@zubarah.com.

SPECIAL LISTINGS ASPIRE KATARA HOSPITALITY Red Velvet Cupcakery

Sun-Thurs: Tangia Restaurant. Enjoy an authentic Moroccan business lunch in Tangia Restaurant with a three-course set menu for only QR 87 including beverages. From 12:00 noon till 3:00 p.m. For more information call 4434-3203/3333 or email wgrf&b@wyndham.com.

Jan: Katara Cultural Village. Get two free drinks tomorrow by spending QR 100 today. For more information call 4408-0700 for more details. Jan: A party celebration at Red Velvet is fun! Celebrate your children’s birthday party at QR 60 per child with their great birthday party package. Advance reservation is required. For more information call 4408-0700. Jan: Ice Cream Sandwich. Enjoy a mouth-watering ice cream sandwich and get a free small bottle of regular water with every purchase. For more information call 4408-0700.

Sushi Fiesta

Aspire Grand Café

Business Lunch

Saturdays: Chopsticks Restaurant. Chopsticks, the award-winning restaurant, presents a delightful miso soup followed by Sushi Fiesta. Eat as much you can for only QR 169 per person. Immerse yourself in an eclectic range of original and sensational sushi platters and try their sushi made of chicken, beef and duck exclusively at Chopsticks. From 6:30 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4434-3203/3333 or email wgrf&b@wyndham.com.

ZUBARAH BOUTIQUE HOTEL All You Can Eat

Mondays: Caminito. Caminito brings you a fantastic promotion where you can enjoy endless bruschettas, empanadas and a free-flow of their signature drinks for just QR 80 per person. From 6:30 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4447-0000 or email Caminito@zubarah.com.

Two For One

Wednesdays: Caminito. Because they love Wednesday, Caminito offers one complimentary main course for your guest when a main course of equal or greater value is purchased. From 6:30 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4447-0000 or email Caminito@zubarah.com.

Jan: Aspire Park. New Grab-To-Go items. Due to business demand, the Aspire Grand chefs have prepared special ready-to-go Middle Eastern flavours up for grabs. Available daily. For more information call 4449-3963. Jan: Try their chicken biryani – a speciallyprepared fresh chicken, well-marinated with traditional Indian spices, cooked with fragrant basmati rice and finely-chopped fresh herbs. For more information call 4449-3963. Jan: Delight your taste-buds with a speciallyprepared dhal curry cooked with Indian spices, tempered with cumin and served with paratha bread. For more information call 4449-3963. Jan: Choose from ready-to-heat soups and a wide selection of hot and cold beverages for dine-in or take-away. For more information call 4449-3963. Jan: Enjoy healthy choices of breakfast while visiting the park, including fresh croissants, sunny-side up or omelette egg dishes, and crêpes. For more information call 4449-3963.

Burgeri

Jan: Aspire Park. ‘B.4.’ Enjoy four new flavourful burgers, B. Hawaiian, B. Fish, B. Ultimate Veggie, and B. Cajun are now available daily. For more information call 4449-3958.

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Jan: B.Mushroom Melt. A choice of Black Angus, Wagyu beef, or chicken topped with fresh tomatoes, grilled onions and mushrooms, garlic aioli and melted Swiss cheese. Beef burgers are available in single and double sizes for dine-in and take-away. Available daily. For more information call 4449-3958. Jan: Burgeri Fun Meal. Each meal comes in a beautifully-designed Fun Box that includes one fruit juice, an order of regular French Fries, and choice of B. Classic, B. Cheesy, Good Dog or their new B. Bites (served with special sauces). For more information call 4449-3958.

Sukar Pasha Ottoman Lounge

Jan: Katara Cultural Village. Experience the comfort of their designer VIP beach tents with personalized butler service. Also, their outdoor garden seating is your ideal option to unwind. For more information call 4408-2000. Jan: Enjoy a whole lamb seasoned to perfection, charcoal spit-roasted and served with aromatic traditional Machbous rice for take-away. From 3:00 p.m. till 12:00 midnight. For more information call 4408-2000.

Chac’Late

Jan: Katara Cultural Village. Their newlydesigned breakfast menu now includes an organic egg breakfast, served fresh and healthy at QR 48. For more information call 4408-0733. Jan: Enjoy a signature Parisian or Chac’Late breakfast with indoor or outdoor seating. Prices start from QR 30. From 8:00 a.m. till 11:00 a.m. For more information call 4408-0733.

L’wzaar Seafood Market

Jan: Katara Cultural Village. Sushi Night. Platters of specially-prepared assortments of sushi to share are now available during dinnertime, from Sunday to Wednesday. For more information call 4408-0710. Jan: A fresh selection of cold mezze including Classic, Mixed or Deluxe is now available daily from the a la carte menu. For more information call 4408-0710. Jan: A tantalizing special dish of the day is available during lunch and dinner. For more information call 4408-0710. Jan: Experience their Tandoori grill and Thai curry cooking styles for your fresh seafood. Other cooking styles are also available. For more information call 4408-0710.

leVesuvio

Jan: Katara Cultural Village. Three-Course Lunch. A special table lunch menu consisting of a starter, a main course and a dessert. Available from Sunday to Thursday. For more information call 4408-1500. Jan: Pizza Home Delivery. They deliver for a minimum order of 20 pizzas. Advance reservation is highly required. For more information call 4408-1500.

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Food & Dining

Directory

Burgeri Aspire Park

INTERNATIONAL

Savor Café Lounge ess Park Crowne Plaza Doha - The Busin

American & Tex-Mex American Grill 4411-0188 Burgeri 4449-3958. Caminito 4447-0000 Chili’s 4466-0663 Ipanema 4419-6100 Johnny Rockets 4455-2792 Just Burger 4015-0180 4437-2679 Latino 4485-4444 Oyster Bay 4446-0105 Paloma 4484-4444 Pampano 4495-3876 Ric’s Kountry Kitchen 4443-7846 Rodizio Brazilian Churrascaria 4408-7777 Salsa 4429-8888 TGI Friday’s 4488-7008

ARABIC & LEBANESE Agora 4445-5555 Al Balad 4491-8692 Al Bandar 4431-1818 Al Batross 4432-8888 Al Canteen 4433-6666 Al Mourjan 4483-4423 Al Sayyad 4484-7420 Al Sultan Brahim 4446-0105 Al Tawash 4498-2002 Argan 4433-6666 Burj Al Hamam 4495-3876 Istanbul Sultan Dining Restaurant 4468-5089 Khan Rafouk Tarab Café 4408-0840 Kunafa Albisana. 4408-1200 Layali 4431-0005 Lebanese Shawarma 4466-2616 Liza 4495-3876 Majlis 4448-1234 Marmara Istanbul 4436-2947 Shawarma Albisana 4408-1400 Sukar Pasha Ottoman Lounge 4408-2000 Tajine 4435-5554 Tangia 4434-3333 The Tent 4432-8888 Turkey Central 4443-2927

Nusantao: Sea Kitchens The Four Seasons

CHINESE Chopsticks 4434-3333 D’Chopstix 4408-4888 Royal Bafilyon 4411-4458 Ruby Wu’s 4428-1428 Wok of Fame 4413-4772

Contemporary European Aroma 4405-3325 Astor Grill 4446-0105 Belgian Café 4484-4444 Gordon Ramsay 4446-0105 La Mer 4484-8000 Market by Jean-Georges 4453-5135 Nando’s Delivery Hotline 4436-0606 Opal by Gordon Ramsay 4446-0105

FRench La Sahtaine 4423-3333 La Varenne 4499-0680 Le Relais de L’Entrecote 4495-3876 ext. 1411 Maxim 4428-1428 Sormani 4495-3876 Ext. 3222

Indian Biryani Hut 4464-1401 Bombay Balti 4428-1428 Chingari 4428-1428 Idyl Factory 6674-1143 Royal Indian 4466-6876 Royal Tandoor Al Souq St., Jasra 4444-6151 Souq Waqif 4432-3244 Saffron Lounge 3325-8919 Sukh Sagar 4431-9172 Taj Rasoi 4429-8888

Al Hubara 4485-4444 Al Liwan Restaurant 4424-2888 Al Matbakh Rooftop Grill 4433-6777 Al Shaheen Restaurant 4485-4444 Animato 4496-6600 Baraha 4447-0000 Blue Brasserie Restaurant 4472-2666 Choices 4402-3333 Corniche 4429-8888 Cosmo Restaurant 4424-7777 Crossroads Kitchen 4419-6100 De Dine Zone Restaurant 4470-8822 East 4433-6666 Flying Carpet 4446-5600 Grand Gourmet 4434-3333 La Brasserie 4446-2222 La Cigalon Restaurant 4428-8888 Lifestyle Restaurant 4463-2154 Mawasem 4423-3333 Mehfil Restaurant 4409-4444 Nando’s Delivery Hotline 4436-0606 The Dining Room 4433-6666 (Al Najada Boutique Hotel) The Dining Room 4424-3444 (Fraser Suites Hotel) The Grill 4448-1234 The Lagoon 4484-8000 Three Sixty 4446-5600 Torch Tea Garden 4446-5600 Vine 4446-0105

Italian Bice Ristorante 4495-3876 Carluccio’s 4495-3876 Cucina 4419-6100 Di Capri 4428-8698 Fabio’s Pizza 4416-5641 II Teatro 4494-8888 La Dolce Vita Italian Restaurant 4436-7991 La Spiga by Paper Moon 4453-5135 le Vesuvio 4408-1500 Paper Moon 4016-6000 Picasso’s 4428-1428 Porcini 4484-8000 Rocca 4448-1270 The Italian Job 4428-1428

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La Spiga by Paper Moon The W Doha

CafÉs

Mykonos InterContinental Doha

Japanese Neo 4432-2508 Oishi Sushi 4442-8989 Sakura 4428-1428 Strata Restaurant & Lounge 4015-8888 Sushi Minto 4467-5577 Yen Sushi Bar 4428-8888

Mediterranean Aramede 4408-7777 Bistro Bistro 4428-1428 La Villa 4446-2222 Le Central Restaurant 4428-8888 Medi @ The Village 4444-4700 Mykonos 4484-4444 The Cellar 4402-3333

Persian Grill @ The Village 4444-4700 Parisa 4425-6666 Prince Of Persia 4015-0190.

Southeast Asian Asia Live! 4429-8888 Chowking Delivery Hotline 4431-1212 Mamoura 4486-6077 Al Khor 4411-8816/17 Salwa Road 4437-1212 Al Sadd St. 4431-4411 Holiday Villa 4411-5225/335 Isaan 4448-1250 Mango Tree 4495-3876 Nusantao: Sea Kitchens 4494-8888 Spice Market 4453-5353 Sri Kebaya 4434-0838 The Noodle House City Center Mall 4411-5063 The Pearl 4495-3876 Wok Mee Noodle House 4496-6600

The Anvil Rooms Tornado Tower

Bar Food Belgian Café 4484-4444 De Ozone 4470-8822 Madison Piano Bar 4428-8888 Pool Bar 4484-4444 Shehrazad 4428-1428 The Irish Harp 4485-4444 The Lounge 4405-3325 Wahm 4453-5353

Burgers American Grill 4411-0188 Burgeri 4449-3958. Chili’s 4466-0663 Fuddruckers 4483-3983 Hardee’s 4467-8750 Johnny Rockets 4455-2792 TGI Friday’s 4488-7008

Seafood Al Dana 4425-6666 Al Dente Seafood Restaurant 4472-2666 Al Sayyad 4484-7420 Al Sultan Brahim 4446-0105 Fish Market 4484-4444 L’wzaar Seafood Market 4408-0710 Pampano 4495-3876 Pier 12 4428-1428

Steakhouses Bentley’s Grill 4428-1428 JW’s Steakhouse 4429-8888 Le Grill 4484-7412 New York Steakhouse 4419-6100 Prime 4015-8888 The Anvil Rooms 4499-0685 The Butcher Shop and Grill 4413-5508 The Old Manor Steakhouse 4446-2222

Alison Nelson’s Chocolate Bar 4495-3878 Ext. 1311 Al Jalsa 4425-6666 Al Kut Lounge 4434-3203 Al Mandarine 4463-3748 Aspire Grand Café 4449-3963 Atrium Lounge 4485-4444 Bab Al Baher 4423-3333 Bert’s Café 4495-3876 Ext 1381 Biscotti 4448-1282 Café De Biznez 4470-8822 Café Tasse 4444-7017 Café Vergnano 4495-3876 Ext. 2611 Chac’Late 4408-2000 Coffee Time 4466-7551 Colombiano 4434-2753 Dean and Deluca 4451-9780 Dell @ The Village 4444-4700 Gourmet House 4405-3333 Jones the Grocer 4407-7175 La Margarita 4409-4444 Le Gourmet 4436-1789 Lime Café 4496-6600 Maya La Chocolatiere Landmark Mall 4486-2264 Villaggio Mall 4417-8132 MBCo The Gate Mall 4407-7130 Al Emaadi Financial Square 4411-7224 Moka and Co 4458-3232 Orangery Café Troittor 4428-8888 Quick Bites 4419-6134 Red Velvet Cupcakery 4408-0700. Sarab Lounge 4446-0105 Savor Café Lounge 4408-7777 Shisha Garden 4428-8888 Sky Lounge 4402-3333 Sugar and Spice 4411-4456 The Courtyard 4433-6444 The Drawing Room 4433-6666 The Lobby Lounge 4484-8000 The Terrace Lounge 4433-6555 Torch Café 4446-5600 W Café 4453-5353 Ya Hala 4423-3333

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Sports

Top Picks

Doha Marriott Personal Training

Upon request: Experience a personal training session tailored just for you, at the Doha Marriott gym. Whether you choose to squeeze in a quick jog before lunch or a non-stop cardio and strengthening workout with the gym’s experienced and dynamic personal trainer, Andrew Martinez, everything you do will guarantee that you’ll have fun and see results. One hour-long session is QR 150, or a package of eight one-hour sessions is QR 1,080. For more information call 4429-8520.

Qatar Tennis Federation Qatar ExxonMobil Open 2015

Jan 5-10: Khalifa International Tennis & Squash Complex. Some of the world’s top male tennis players including Novak Djokovic, Rafael Nadal, Tomas Berdych and David Ferrer will heat up the courts at the Khalifa International Tennis & Squash Complex this month as they battle it out for the coveted title and prize money. Tickets are available at designated stands in City Center, Landmark, Lagoona, and Villaggio Malls, and the Khalifa Tennis & Squash Complex. For more information visit www.qatartennis.org.

Qatar 2015 24th Men’s Handball World Championship

Jan 15-Feb 1: Various venues. With the participation of 24 countries from all over the world, the biennial Men’s Handball World Championship is the biggest and one of the most important international events in Olympic sport. Tournament matches will take place across three venues – Lusail Multi-Purpose Hall in Lusail, Ali Bin Hamad Al Attiya Arena in Al Sadd and the Duhail Handball Sport Hall in Duhail. For more information visit www.qatarhandball2015.com.

InterContinental Doha Prenatal Yoga Doha Golf Club The Commercial Bank Qatar Masters 2015

Jan 21-24: Doha Golf Club. The biggest international golf tournament in Qatar is returns this January. Drawing the biggest names in golf, the four-day event will be packed with dramatic twists and surprises on the green and endless entertainment at the Public Village, including a concert performance from British reggae-pop band UB40. For more information visit www.qatar-masters.com.

Wed & Sat: Fitness Club. Using gentle, targeted exercises that can be practiced during the first, second and third trimesters, prenatal yoga classes generally focus on poses that strengthen and increase the flexibility of the muscles used during childbirth, while also increasing stamina. From 8:15 p.m. till 9:15 p.m. For more information call 4484-4852.

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SPORTS

Return Of The

Champion By Jorge Granda Images courtesy of Commercial Bank & Fasttrack Agency

As the top names in the sport prepare to tee off at the 2015 Commercial Bank Qatar Masters, QH chats with the defending champion. In this frank interview, Sergio Garcia talks about winning last yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s tournament, his biggest victories in 2014, his workout routine and his goals for the future.

Sergio Garcia will be back on the greens to defend his title at this year's Qatar Masters

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SG: No, not really. If you’re a professional sportsman, you have to look after yourself for many reasons. QH: Can you tell us three things that your fans might be surprised to know about you? SG: I like to cook, I like to chill and I’m interested in art. t With 128 players in the tournamen y Garcia says he's up against a stead stream of strong competitors

ed Pearl Sergio Garcia took home the covet do it again! trophy in 2014 −and he hopes to

QH: Last year you won your first Commercial Bank Qatar Masters title. How did it feel to lift the trophy?

QH: You’ve already enjoyed a high level of success in your career as a golfer. What’s next on the horizon?

SG: It´s always great to win – no matter where, but if you can win a tournament at a course you like, a place you like, where you have many friends, that´s extra special.

SG: I want to be remembered as a good person and a good golfer, and I would like to win a major of course. That´s what we work and play hard for.

QH: How did you keep your cool during that tense play-off with Mikko Ilonen?

QH: For those people who find golf boring and debate that it doesn’t qualify as a sport, what would you say to those with that mind-set?

SG: I can only control what I do and focus on my game. I knew that Mikko was playing great but I can only focus on my game…that helps to calm you down a bit. QH: How confident are you about a second win this time ‘round? SG: Well, we will see how my form is going into the tournament week. It´s a good field as always and I would have to be on top of my game. QH: Do you think your game has improved since last year’s tournament in Doha? SG: I would say that I played very consistent and it helps the confidence. My last nine holes of the 2014 season at the Thailand Golf Championship I shot 29 and I hope to pick up my game where I left it in Thailand on a good note. QH: Who would you say is your biggest contender this year at the Commercial Bank Qatar Masters?

SG: If you’re not a golfer, I recommend going and hitting as many golf balls as possible on the range and the next day you will see what muscles you can feel. Golf is now on the agenda of the IOC [International Olympic Committee], so it´s definitely a sport.

QH: Is there a victory in particular that gave you a great sense of achievement in 2014? SG: Yes, The Commercial Bank Qatar Masters 2014 and, of course, The Ryder Cup.

Venue: Doha Golf Club, West Bay Dates: January 21-24 Prize Fund: USD $2.5 million

QH: Are you doing any specific preparation for the Qatar Masters? SG: No, not really. I like the course and will play my practice rounds to see how the course plays this year. QH: Apart from playing golf, do you have a workout routine that keeps you in shape? SG: Yes, I do have a personal and professional fitness coach who is travelling with me to the tournament, and yes we have our routine that we work on. QH: Do you follow a strict diet?

SG: There are 128 players in the field and they all can play good golf. It´s seriously tough to say, I have to be in good form and focus on my game.

2015 Commercial Bank Qatar Masters

SG: I try to eat healthy and stay away from the sweets if I can. QH: You’re hearing tell more often of male celebrities and athletes who are very much into following a beauty regime to look young and healthy. Are you one of them?

Event Schedule • Sunday 18 & Monday 19: Player arrivals and official practice days. • Monday 19: Challenge match featuring six European Tour professionals, paired up with six Qatari juniors in a nine-hole shootout – 2:00 p.m. shotgun start. • Tuesday 20: Pro-Am • Wednesday 21: Round 1 • Thursday 22: Round 2 • Friday 23: Round 3, followed by evening concert – UB40 featuring Ali Campbell, Astro and Mickey. • Saturday 24: Final round, followed by prize presentation on the 18th Green. Ticket Information Season tickets and individual day passes for the 2015 Commercial Bank Qatar Masters are available to purchase from the Doha Golf Club, the Doha Rugby Club and Virgin Megastores. Entry is free for children under 15 years of age. For further ticketing information and details on hospitality packages visit www.qatar-masters.com. n

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SPORTS

ent colour Runners get showered in a differ 5K race for every lap they complete of the

ipants The Color Run Qatar will take partic on a course around the QNCC

In addition to being tons of fun, The Color Run also focuses on promoting healthy living. Over 60% of Color Runners are first-time 5K runners, and the event hopes to help further Qatar’s commitment to improving health and wellness across the country.

Rainbow Run As told to Jorge Granda

What do you get when you mix adrenaline, fitness and community spirit with a splash of pink, blue, yellow, orange and green? The Color Run – that’s what! This 5K race where runners are doused in powdered paint will take place in Doha on January 24, followed by a Finish Festival party! QH laces up our running shoes to bring you the details.

he ‘Happiest 5K On The Planet’ is coming to Qatar for the first time ever, with the help of Sahtak Awalan: Your Health First, a health campaign run by Weill Cornell Medical College in Qatar (WCMC-Q.) Less about a 10-minute-mile and more about having the time of your life, The Color Run is a five-kilometres, un-timed fun-run where participants – or ‘Color Runners’ – can run, jog, walk, or even push their children in strollers round the course under a shower of coloured powder. Winding its way around the outside of the Qatar National Convention Centre, the race will light up the area as it goes along with huge clouds of vibrant colour. The fun continues at the finish line with a gigantic Finish Festival to celebrate the public’s participation.

The Color Run Qatar is presented by Sahtak Awalan: Your Health First, an initiative from WCMC-Q in association with the Supreme Council of Health and the campaign’s strategic partners, Qatar Foundation, the Supreme Education Council, Qatar Petroleum, Occidental Petroleum Qatar, ExxonMobil, and the Qatar Olympic Committee. The five-year educational-health campaign, which was launched in 2012, focuses on encouraging young people between the ages of ten to 25 to make healthy lifestyle choices. Gaining global popularity since its launch in January 2012, The Color Run has become the single largest event series in the United States and is gaining traction around the world with over 100 events and a million participants in 2013 alone. The Color Run Qatar will be organized by IMG, the global sports, media and fashion company. Color Runners can sign up now at www.thecolorrun.qa and with the event consistently selling out all over the world, including sold-out events in Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Singapore, organizers are urging hopeful participants to sign up early to avoid disappointment. Entries cost QR 140 and include a gift pack, an event T-shirt, sweatband and colour pack. For more information visit www.thecolorrun.qa, or The Color Run Qatar Facebook page. You can also Tweet them @TheColorRunQA. n

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Special Promotion

Evolution Soccer offers kids the chance to increase their level of activity and build team leadership skills

The Little Leagues The children’s recreation sector is typically thought of as a quaint one, populated by small businesses, non-profits and municipally-run programs. But larger, more professionalized businesses are stepping into to fill the space too, offering an array of fitness and team sports options for youth. A case in point here in Doha – Evolution Sports.

n his arrival to Qatar in 2004, former P.E teacher, Tommy Westmoreland quickly noticed a distinct lack of recreational opportunities for young children in Doha. With very few professionally-run programs available, Westmoreland started his soccer classes for young players ages three to 16. Word spread among parents, and he was soon putting together about 35 classes per week. Westmoreland saw a business opportunity and in 2007, he established a company called

Evolution Soccer – with the goal of creating soccer coaching resources for the growing population of both Qatari and expat players. “Evolution Soccer was never set up with the intention of being a ‘baby-sitting’ service,” he says. “We realized early on that there was strong demand for a more professionally-run program, and this is what we strive for.” The company has since expanded and now boasts over 2,000 players across several different sports including swimming, basketball, and rugby.

am are Coaches in the Little Ballers progr ls fully-qualified, registered professiona

Evolution Soccer’s ‘Little Ballers’ program is particularly popular and offers specialized training for pre-school children up to six years-old. Evolution Soccer kicks-off term two on January 11 and will run for a period of ten weeks. Sessions are typically held after school from 4:00 p.m. at Doha College Al Waab and Doha College West Bay campuses. For more information on how Evolution Soccer is changing the face of children's sports in Qatar, visit www.evosportsqatar.com. n

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SPORTS

Running in sand offers more resistance than paved terrain, adding more benefit to your workout.

Kick-Start To Health By Jonny Parr Photography by Jessie Palanca

Making New Year’s fitness resolutions is one thing – making them a reality is another. Good thing we’ve got the trainers from at Absolute Fitness on our side to help you follow through!

Absolute Fitness trainer Jonny Parr does a set of bench-dips

he New Year is a great time for a host of reasons – whether it be fun, family, reflection, and more often than not, setting new goals or resolutions. In most instances, people will target particular health and fitnessrelated goals. This is great – and what’s more should excite and motivate you.

The Importance Of Goal-Setting And Focus Keeping focused and setting goals will be important if you hope to attain them. With regard to goal-setting, it’s great to have a longterm goal but ultimately those short-term will be more vital to your success. The most common example is fat loss. If you’re aiming to lose 10 kilos, this won’t happen immediately. A good short-term goal for this is to plan over the course of a week and prepare balanced and nutritious meals. In terms of fitness, a good goal is to train

three times per week focusing on exercises that significantly elevate metabolism. These somewhat small goals in combination with motivation and discipline will ultimately be the factors that help you fit into that dress you used to wear 3-4 years ago.

Once you’ve set, planned and importantly written these goals down…then the graft of making them a reality comes into play. Provided below is a proven outdoor fitness individual session that takes advantage of the amazing cool weather Qatar is currently experiencing.

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I’m not a believer of long, tedious training. Short, intense, scenic, and where possible fun sessions will help deliver better results and instill and re-ignite enthusiasm when the going gets tough – which it will at many stages. Let’s get to it.

Outdoor Fitness Session (Approx 30mins) • Be sure to participate in a thorough, movement-focused warm-up before performing this session. • Running is not for everyone – particularly for those with tissue and joint issues. This is due to the high-impact velocity it entails. If you’re ‘joint healthy’, then performing the 15-yard sprints should pose no problem. If this isn’t the case, simply remove the sprints or substitute them for a fast walk.

Metabolic Focused Strength & Conditioning Training • Bodyweight squats x 10-20 • 15-Yard sprints x 4 • Bench dips x 10-20 • (Modify where necessary, i.e. bent knees) • 15-Yard sprints x 4 • Bench jumps x 10-20 (This an advanced exercise with a notably higher risk – if you aren’t comfortable performing these please substitute for lowerimpact vertical jumps or bodyweight lunges). • 15-Yard sprints x 4 • Sit-ups x 10-20 • 15-Yard sprints x 4 Perform the above for the number of reps you deem fitting before progressing to the next exercise with little to no rest. This rest will be dictated by your current level of conditioning. Complete for 1-5 rounds.

Bodyweight squats are a great way to firm up and improve your centre of gravity

Jonny positions himself to do a bench jump

Running-Based Conditioning Finisher Running is best performed on sand or grass as opposed to roads or hard terrain. Sand in particular is great for further challenging your body metabolically, can actually help strengthen your joints, and is a bit more fun to perform. It’s 2015 and it’s a great time to clearly define and – more importantly, get your health and fitness resolutions in to full-motion (literally). The session provided can play a role in your short-term development. Apply yourself via hard work, remain focused throughout the course, stay motivated when times get tough, and finally reach the goals you want to achieve. Happy New Year people of Qatar – make 2015 the best year yet. n For more information on personal training options through Absolute Fitness call 3385-2696 or visit www.absolutefitness.me.

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Sports

Listings

QH RECOMMENDS

All listings are categorized per hotel. Inclusion is limited to availability of space, with priority given to advertisers. Boxing Fitness

Mon & Fri: Fitness Club.This class combines the principles of boxing – such as basic punching, defending and foot-work, with cardio exercises specific for boxing training. Participants will develop coordination, balance and control. From 8:30 p.m. till 9:30 p.m. on Mondays, and from 4:00 p.m. till 5:00 p.m. on Fridays. Members pay QR 30/non-members QR 50. For more information call 4484-4852.

LA CIGALE Tone & Shape

Saturdays: Ozone Gym & Spa. This 60-minute total body workout combines low to medium-intensity cardio and weighttraining exercises. Starts at 11:00 a.m. Complimentary for members,non-members pay QR 60 per class. For more information call 4428-8101.

The Ultimate Core

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA Pilates Sculpt

Tuesdays: Fitness Club.This special class focuses on a series of non-impact exercises designed to develop abdominal strength, flexibility, balance and improve postural alignment. Slow and controlled movements strengthen and lengthen muscles to help re-balance the body. From 9:15 a.m. till 10:15 a.m. Members pay QR 30/non-members QR 50. For more information call 4484-4852.

EVERY WEEK CROWNE PLAZA DOHA – THE BUSINESS PARK Personal Trainer

Upon request: The hotel’s fitness instructors are fully-qualified to provide expert guidance and motivation for your workout, ensuring the correct technique to help you get the best results. One session is QR 150 and ten sessions are QR 1,350. From 8:00 a.m. till 9:00 p.m. For more information call 4408-7621 or email recreation.cpdoha@ihg.com.

DOHA MARRIOTT LPG Slimming Machine

Upon request: Adored by stars all over the world and well-known to the general public, the Cellu M6 Keymodule (the Lipomassage machine), is the new alternative to invasive methods. Enjoy a special introductory offer of one LPG treatment plus a 20% discount on a personal training consultation with trainer Adamou. For more information call 4429-8520.

Swimming Lessons

Upon request: Join their fun-filled swimming lessons in a temperaturecontrolled Olympic-sized swimming pool. Learn the front-stroke, back-stroke, breast-stroke and butterfly by a certified swimming instructor with CPR and first-aid training. Adults and children are welcome by appointment. Lessons are 45 minutes. For more information call 4429-8520.

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA Pi-Yo

Wednesdays: Pi-Yo combines the muscle-sculpting, core-firming benefits of Pilates with the strength and flexibility of flowing yoga movements. You'll improve your balance and core power with an intense low-impact workout that will burn crazy calories and sculpt your body. From 5:00 p.m. till 5:45 p.m. For more information call 4484-4852.

Sun & Tue: Ozone Gym & Spa. An amazing 30-minute workout that focuses on core muscles to stabilize and strengthen the entire body. Sunday and Tuesday at 8:00 p.m. Complimentary for members, non-members pay QR 60 per class. For more information call 4428-8101.

Explosive Cardio

Sun & Tue: Ozone Gym & Spa. This 60-minute endurance cardiovascular training session will burn fat, tone muscles and improve fitness capabilities. Sundays and Tuesdays at 7:00 p.m. Complimentary for members, non-members pay QR 60 per class. For more information call 4428-8101.

MARRIOTT MARQUIS CITY CENTER DOHA Yoga Classes

Daily (upon request):Balance your mind and body at your choice of time and day. QR 65 for a 60-minute session, available seven days a week. For more information call 4419-6090..

See us online! www.qatarhappening.com

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Activities & Clubs Bike Riding The Corniche Aspire Park

Bowling

The Qatar Bowling Center 4432-9178 or www.qatarbowlingcenter.net Gondolania Bowling Center (Villaggio) 4403-9807 or www.gondolania.com Strike Bowling Alley (City Center) 4483-9162

Golf

The Doha Golf Club 4496-0777 or www.dohagolfclub.com

Horse Riding

Al Khor Riding Center 4421-8857 Al Samariya Stables 5525-7203 or qatarracing@gmail.com Al Shaqab Riding Academy 4454-6236 or www.alshaqab.com

Ice-Skating

Winter Wonderland (City Center) 4483-9162 Gondolania Ice Arena (Villaggio) 4403-9807 or www.gondolania.com

Sailing

Doha Sailing Club 4443-9840 or www.qmsf.com Regatta Sailing Academy 4442-4577 or www.regattasailingacademy.com Royal Yachting Association Courses www.ryacourses-qatar.com

Swimming

Aspire Academy for Sporting Excellence 4413-6219 or www.aspire.qa Aqua Park 4490-5872 or aquaparkqa@gmail.com

Tennis & Squash

Khalifa Tennis & Squash Complex 4440-9666

Walking

Park at Museum of Islamic Art The Corniche The Pearl-Qatar (2.5 km) Aspire Park

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Interior Design Forum Design, Bilal Tower, Al Asmakh Area, 11th Floor. Tel.4456 8716 (An Associate of Ahmed Hassan Bilal Group)

Bilal Pearl Suites The Pearl Qatar

Real Estate Ahmed Hassan Bilal Trading & Contracting Co. W.L.L. Bilal Tower, Al Ashmeck Area, 10th Floor. Tel.4442 8877

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Top Picks

The Ritz-Carlton Wellness & ‎Spa Membership

Upon request: The Spa. The Ritz-Carlton Doha is promoting healthy New Year’s resolutions in 2015 with Wellness & Spa memberships. The membership allows guests to access the spa and fitness centre along with a ‎personal training session, savings on fitness classes, spa treatments and retail purchasing along with other offers. For more information call 4484-8173.

Doha Marriott Be Beautiful

Upon request: The spa. Whether you’re going to a major event, or looking for some inspiration, visit the spa at the Doha Marriott and get the perfect make-up. Bridal Makeup: 1 ½ hours at QR 500; Evening Makeup: 1 hour at QR 375; Day Makeup: 1 hour at QR 275 and Trial Makeup: 45 min at QR 275. For more information call 4429-8520.

The St. Regis Doha New Year Wellness & Renewal

Upon request: Remède Spa. Enjoy a postholiday 60-minute Remède Customized Detoxifying Body Wrap treatment to improve circulation and reduce water retention, followed by an Elemis Tri-Enzyme Resurfacing facial to reveal a smoother, more radiant complexion, all for QR 900. For more information call 4446-0300 or e-mail Remedespa.doha@stregis.com.

The Grand Hyatt January Treats

Sharq Village & Spa Arabian Treat

Upon request: Six Senses Spa. Try their brand-new Charme D' Orient product range and indulge in a 50-minute Morrocan hammam, followed by a 35-minute full-body massage using healing argan oil. This is a locally-inspired experience complete with a 15-minute nourishing hair treatment. QR 110. For more information call 4425-6999/6995.

All-Month: Jaula Spa & Club. Book the Jaula Liftosome Facial, a highly-powered anti-wrinkle treatment formulated for the delicate area around the eyes to restore radiance, or Aroma Visage, Jaula’s signature cleansing and oxygenating facial that’s suited to calm, improve and protect the skin, combined with aromatic essential oils blended to your skin’s personalized needs. QR 500. For more information call 4448-1060.

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The Art Of

Zen By Ashlee Starratt and Jorge Granda Photography by Jessie Palanca

As its name suggests, it’s all about elevating your healthy outlook at B/Attitude. One of only a few elite spas in Doha to adopt a full-spectrum, holistic approach to wellness the facility offers fitness, nutrition, beauty services and more in addition to a menu of 73 indulgent spa treatments. QH was lucky enough to try out a few to tempt you!

Back To Nature I’m here to get elemental at B/Attitude with their Salt Massage Purifying Body Treatment. It’s my first time visiting the spa and I’m refreshed to find such a gem tucked away inside a private, residential building – West Bay’s Beverly Hills Tower. Part of the iconic Buddha Bar brand, its whole aesthetic surrounds the principles of the Oriental and Ayurvedic modalities of wellness. If you’ve ever been to Buddha Bar in Dubai, you’ll have a quick idea of the kind of sumptuous décor that awaits you at B/Attitude. The female reception area is bathed in the deepest tones of Chinese red, and there’s a hand-painted Japanese kimono spread out on the far wall – as much a work of art as any Pollock, Dalí or Hirst. For it’s here where the Middle East meets the Far East as I follow my therapist Kitty down a serpentine, Chinese lantern-adorned hallway; it’s like chasing after a red dragon – aglow with rich light and a calming essence. Along the way she stops to show me their water massage room – a grotto-like pool that would be the envy of any Japanese onsen. My treatment room is lush – with two massage beds, a private shower and washroom, a double-soaker relaxation pool and some seriously serene Buddha Bar ambient music. Kitty starts by having me select which aromatherapy salt scrub I prefer – chamomile, lavender, green tea or rosemary. Feeling the need to align my chi I go for the lavender and Kitty goes to work. She starts by using a calming massage oil, working out all the knots before seamlessly sprinkling the salt crystals along my body’s energy path-points and exfoliating my skin. She has a deft touch – not too much pressure – and absolute fluidity of movement and I catch myself nodding off snoring a couple of times. Kitty, who hails from northern Thailand, is a talented massage therapist and I would recommend requesting her if you’re planning to book a treatment at B/Attitude. She finishes up with the application of a body lotion that seals in moisture and leaves my skin silky-smooth. After the Salt Scrub Massage I’m treated to some hair therapy at their in-spa salon. The facility is a welcome touch – making B/Attitude a one-stopshop for pretty much everything you’d need done when it comes to pampering. Today I’ll be trying out one of their exclusive Leonor Greyl hair masks; the only salon/spa to carry the high-end Parisian products in Qatar, the brand prides itself on its all-natural, silicone and paraffin-free range of treatments that instead have all-natural, organic, plant-based extracts to purify and nourish. My stylist Lucinda – a bubbly girl from Britain, knows her product inside and out – she tells me that I’ll first be having a leave-in root mask made of algae extracts which as she describes as like “having a shampoo without the shampoo.” After adding water to the solution she meticulously paints the (bright green!) treatment

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Their decadent water massage

room

and rubbing my body with black salt to prepare the skin for exfoliation and scrubbing. r In Chinese tradition, red is the colou itude of luck and prosperity − at B/Att it also brings a sense of tranquility

After my entire body was covered in salt – which felt more like a slippery soup – I was left for 15 minutes so the product could properly soak into my skin. Afterwards my therapist once again rinsed me off with warm water from a bucket. He then scrubbed and exfoliated my entire body using specialized massage gloves in order to get rid of any residuals and dead skin cells, followed by a washing from head-to-toe with black rasshoul soap under a Vichy shower. This type of treatment done well by a professional, in a respectful manner, is the best pampering experience. It was by far one of my top three spa treatments in Doha – I truly enjoyed it and could easily book myself in every week.

A winding, temple-like hallway beckons guests towards the treatment rooms

onto my roots, while adding another smoothing, magnolia-scented cream on my ends. Leonor Greyl offers products specifically tailored towards your individual hair-type – there are treatments for hair loss, dandruff, dry colourdamaged strands and more. Lucinda then sets me under a hair-steamer machine which alternates a hot and cool mist for about 15 minutes. She then rinses me off – both masks lather up into a sudsy, shampoo-like consistency –and finishes up by giving me a tousled, texturized blowout. Since all the products used are essentially scent-free, my hair smells very natural, yet feels more glossy and revived than it has in weeks. I’m able to comb through it while wet for the next few days too, with minimal tangles and snarls. Top marks to B/Attitude for a level of luxury that will leave you feeling like a princess – for more than just a day.

Hydrating Relaxation Having a spa-day is one of those indulgent Doha traditions, and I recently visited B/Attitude Spa

to try their Le Bain d’Orient experience, which is almost exactly the same as a hammam – but with more of a traditional Japanese bath-house aesthetic. This is my third hammam, so this time around I know what it consists of and what to expect, so I was very relaxed and ready to enjoy – for the uninitiated, the prospect of having someone bathe and scrub you can be slightly nerve-wracking. Upon arrival I was led to the men’s section and was shown around by my therapist. B/Attitude is easily one of country’s most ornate and striking spas – each room more beautiful than the last, with a clean serenity to the space. You can really tell how much effort was put into designing every single corner – it’s simply stunning. I then followed my therapist to a treatment room to change, where I was given disposable underwear, a robe and slippers. He sat me down on a small sofa and left, only to return ten minutes later wearing a sarong, a sleeveless shirt and slippers. He then led me to a steam-room – not a very hot one, but quite a comfortable temperature – where the actual treatment would take place. I was asked to sit on a marble bench where he rinsed my body with warm water before lying down on my back

Usually after a hammam you get a massage, but instead I got to try their Intraceuticals Rejuvenate facial – a treatment popular among A-list movie stars I’m told. My therapist informs me that Intraceuticals is the only brand to offer a serum specifically formulated to be infused deep into the skin using oxygen under pressure. The effects are visible within 24 hours of the treatment and also cumulative with long-term benefits – for me the hydrating results were visible almost immediately. Both treatments have different prices, but they really complement each other. If you like spending two hours being pampered like a king I would recommend doing both. My experience at B/Attitude was the perfect indulgence to kick off the New Year. n B/Attitude Spa Location: 2nd Floor, Beverly Hills Tower, West Bay Timings: 9:00 a.m. till 9:30 p.m. for spa treatments Prices: • QR 650, 75-min Salt Massage • QR 550, Leonor Greyl Treatment (medium-length hair) • QR 150, 30-min Wash and Blow-Dry • QR 570, 60-min Le Bain d’Orient • QR 1,000, 60-min Intraceuticals Rejuvenate Facial Contact Info: 4412-2046/3319-8631 or visit www.battitudespadoha.com.

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Up In The Air... By John Hunt Images courtesy of Qatar Airways and Marriott Marquis City Center Doha Hotel

emergence of Hamad International Airport (HIA) as a global travel hub, abetted by the meteoric rise of QA.

light, but rather buttons which allow you to electronically polarize the window glass in stages – very neat.

We take to the skies in Qatar Airways’ 787 Dreamliner from Scotland to Qatar for a weekend retreat at the Marriott Marquis City Center Doha, in the heart of West Bay.

But there’s one further attraction to flying with QA from Edinburgh to Doha return, as I did late last year: the flight experience itself. I’d flown QA once before, in economy from London, and that was extremely good, but not a patch on my most recent flight, in business class.

Both on the way out and back I managed to secure the coveted ‘1A’ seat, but the word ‘seat’ doesn’t accurately convey the accommodation in the business class section. Rather I settled into a multi-function, pod-like booth, with various hitech buttons controlling the seating and a touchscreen handset for the in-flight entertainment (IFE). Sound was delivered through top-notch noise-cancelling headphones and vision through a TV monitor which looked to be about 17” across – the biggest I’ve seen yet in a business class cabin.

his coming spring, in May 2015, Qatar Airways (QA) will celebrate one year since launching its direct service between Doha and Edinburgh. The popularity of the route is such that the current five-times-weekly service will become daily in the same month as the first anniversary, so it’s clear that the route connecting Qatar’s capital with that of Scotland is busy. One can make a few guesses as to why: Edinburgh’s position as the second most-visited city for tourism in the UK could be filling seats, and Edinburgh is also in the top ten of European financial centres, so business opportunities could be a draw. Then, we must consider the magnetism of the ever-changing Doha, and also the

At the risk of making those of you yet to experience business class travel with a worldclass airline jealous (QA is one of only six airlines ranked ‘five-star’ by industry-standard review body Skytrax), my recent flights were nothing short of superb. QA uses the new Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft on the route, and the aircraft’s youth is evident in numerous ways. One of these is the plane’s increased cruising speed – I remember when London to Doha took seven hours – the 787’s flight time from Edinburgh to Doha is 6½ hours – with Edinburgh 350 miles further away from Doha than London... This shorter flight duration is a luxury that can be enjoyed regardless of what class you’re in. Likewise the windows – larger than any contemporary plane – which don’t have anything as passé as a manual blind to shut out the

Before take-off came the offer of a drink, soft or otherwise, and I confess that I opted for otherwise, with a flute of chilled bubbly. Our afternoon flight ascended to the heavens and lunch was served – warm breads with an olive oil/balsamic dip, followed by a choice of mains. I passed on the steak and went for something lighter – a caramelized onion and cheese tart with asparagus spears and potato wedges. Well, a little lighter. I finished up with a chocolate tart and another glass of fizz. The three courses were all superb, close to restaurant quality. More impressive than this, though, was the standard of service from the

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cabin crew, which was matchless, and ran like a thread throughout the outward and return legs. After lunch, there only remained about 4½ hours to destination – I say ‘only’ as time does seem to pass faster in business class. The 787 is WiFi equipped, with QR 18 buying 12Mb of data. This doesn’t sound like a lot, but it was plenty enough to conduct a text conversation on WhatsApp for the entire flight, as well as send a few pictures, update Facebook, and do a little browsing. When not playing with the WiFi, I was plugged in to the IFE, which had a wide selection of current and classic cinema, world cinema, and TV shows in multiple languages, not to mention an extensive music library from which you can

A fully-reclining pod-seat becomes a businessclass bed where you can catch some shut-eye

gets Qatar Airways' Business Class menu quality of top marks for presentation and mignon food. Case in point here − the filet

construct your own playlist. I watched Muriel’s Wedding and, as afternoon quickly turned to night as we travelled east, the cabin lights dimmed so I could cry at the sad bits without anyone seeing me. The flight back was an early-ish one, so I had only a little time to peruse the split-level QA business class lounge at HIA before departing. After a (delicious) breakfast, I used the controls to unfold my seat into a completely flat bed, and caught up on some sleep. Before too long, I was back in Edinburgh. I’ve now flown business with the Gulf’s ‘big five’ airlines: Emirates, Etihad, Oman Air, Gulf Air and now QA. For all the reasons mentioned, and its superb service and attention to detail, Qatar Airways takes first prize.

r The spacious executive class interio

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Unwind pool-side at their rooftop sanctuary

junior suite during peak season, but vary according to seasonality and weekday/weekend booking.

Marriott A double executive room at the that view! Marquis − imagine waking up to

Each morning, I enjoyed a fresh and tasty buffet breakfast in the Executive Lounge on the 42nd floor. Each evening in the lounge, a buffet of main courses and fresh desserts was served, with a full, complementary bar. A computer is available, and I had some work on, so I spent a lot of time – both productive and enjoyable – in here. The lounge staff were courteous and efficient, and deserve special mention. Leisure, however, was not ignored. I forwent the gym for the enticing 35-metre outdoor pool, surrounded by palm trees, shades and loungers. I alternated between swimming, sunbathing, and dipping in one of the two outdoor Jacuzzis. This was as relaxing as it sounds, as was my trip to the hotel’s Saray Spa.

Preferred guests can grab a bite to eat and some free WiFi at the hotel's Executive Lounge

A Big City Escape I hoped that my three-night stay in the capital would be as impressive as the flight that got me there. These hopes were pinned on the Marriott Marquis City Center Doha Hotel, and it did not disappoint. Arriving at the hotel – which towers over City Center Mall – at 1:00 a.m., a courteous and efficient check-in meant I was in my king-size bed ten minutes later. Their Mobile Check In/Out app made the whole process a breeze. I slept soundly, and in the morning enjoyed a rain-shower in the marbled bathroom. Finally attuned to my surroundings, I admired a sizeable junior suite, which afforded me great views over the city and the bay. The hall fed into the living room – a large, airy space with dining table and large work desk – and from there to the bedroom area, where the bed faced a hefty LED television with scores of channels. WiFi in the room, indeed throughout the hotel, was fast and free. Executive rooms at the Marriott Marquis Doha cost from QR 1,675 for a

Cucina's tantalizing antipasti buffet

I’d been booked in for a spa treatment and this was something new for me. I was treated to a full-body exfoliation, followed by an hour-long massage. Where the scrub was revitalizing, the massage was so relaxing it almost put me to sleep. As I mentioned, this was a new experience, but certainly an enjoyable one. My penultimate evening afforded the opportunity to catch up with a couple of friends over a brew in Champions Sports Bar, which was, on the Thursday night, busy to say the least! My final evening at the Marriott Marquis Doha was more sedate – and filling – as I dined with the editor of this very magazine in Cucina, the hotel’s Italian-themed restaurant. We enjoyed an array of antipasti starters, a few glasses of Prosecco, and a pair of delicious pizzas from the authentic wood-fired oven. Mine was so big I had to take away a doggy bag... I left the Marriott Marquis Doha the following morning for my flight home very impressed with the room, the facilities (especially the Executive Lounge), the food and the staff. A truly memorable visit to a noteworthy hotel. n For more information on Qatar Airways routes visit www.qatarairways.com. To book a reservation at the Marriott Marquis City Center Doha visit www.marriottmarquisdoha.com or www.marriottmarquisdohadining.com or call 4419-5000.

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Charmed cobras in Marrakesh

Vibrant furs hang outside the tanneries of Marrakesh

How To Get Lost In

Morocco Words and selected images by Jessica Furseth

On the western edge of North Africa lies the Kingdom of Morocco – land of the Berbers. Long before Hollywood solidified its mystique, history and geography forever marked it as a crossroads for culture and trade, where Spanish, Portuguese, Arab and Persian influence defined a people. We explore its historic heart in Marrakesh and Essaouira.

hese days, the thousand-year-old square at the heart of Marrakesh is covered in practical black asphalt, but the snakes seem to have no problem charming their way across the paved Djemaa el-Fna. It’s an intriguing place, Marrakesh – even with the new century elbowing in, there’s something indisputably ancient about it. Every night the crowds gather around the storytellers in the square, where grilled meats and rich couscous are the grand prize as smoke rises from the market stalls.

The Medina, the old town of Marrakesh, contains the soul of the city. Colourful spices are stacked high and newly-tanned leather pokes at your nostrils as you wander through the streets; the fresh orange juice from the square doesn’t taste like any other juice. If you do nothing else in Marrakesh but wander around its deep, sprawling souq, you will be just fine: this is the stuff of fairy tales. Deep into the maze the shops get less glossy, with the whizzing and banging of goods being created on the spot, in the spaces between the display fronts. Pale leather is tanned, dyed fabrics hang overhead, metal is hammered into shape. Marrakesh is the sort of place you come to experience – not to tick off a list of attractions. But of course, there are plenty of sights worthy of visiting too: the Badi Palace (QR 8) is massive in stature and an oasis of calm in a hectic city. The name means ‘The Incomparable’, a testament to its former glory, but now it all belongs to the storks, with its decaying walls surrounding a tranquil square. The Saardian Tombs (QR 4) is another prize sight; no expense was spared when building this decadent mausoleum. The Berber Art Museum (QR 10) is located in the beautiful Jardin Majorelle (QR 20), providing insights into the culture of the region’s original inhabitants.

A gust of wind catches a line of traditional Berber scarves

Castles made of sand in Essaouira

Vendors selling escargot at Marrakesh's sunset bazaar

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Courtesy of a well-developed train and coach network, visitors can travel around Morocco with ease. Two hours west of Marrakesh is Essaouira (QR 60 return with Supratours), a small coastal town with a distinctly bohemian vibe. Tucked inside white walls that are slowly being eroded by the salty wind, Essaouira means ‘The BeautifullyDesigned’, and this is no lie. Apparently Jimi Hendrix wrote ‘Castles Made of Sand’ before he came here, but looking at the crumbling castle just off Essaouira beach, you may well choose to believe the myth that the song is indeed about the Borj El-Berod. You’ll get your feet wet, but you can wade out to the sand-covered ruin, which is split down the middle now, and halfway reclaimed by the sea. Essaouira is a place that encourages you to remain shoeless on the beach, eating berries for breakfast and fruity tagine for dinner. It arrives underneath its flowerpot lid, a few chunks of meat with a few nuts and prunes chucked over the top. Bright yellow couscous is served on the side, no alcohol and asleep by 10:00 p.m. The fish market provides a cheap and quick lunch – point to what you want and they will cook it in front of you. Around the ramparts of old Essaouira the waves never stop crashing, covering the expanse of rock below with bright white foam. Keep walking a while longer and you’ll reach beyond the tidy, more tourist-y part of the city, entering into the area where the locals live. Schoolchildren squeeze by in the narrow streets where the Grannies linger in doorways. The shops are attended by the men, chatting to each other while serving customers. Naked chickens are nailed to walls and eggs are balanced precariously, everything available for a prize. And no matter where you go, the smell of mint hits you square in the face. Moroccan mint tea may well be the most memorable thing about the country. This isn’t some lazy teabag in tepid water, but a revelation: a fistful of fresh mint leaves gets shoved in a glass, hot water is added and a bowl of sugar provided – who’d ever think something so simple could be so wonderful.

The port of Essaouira

Marrakesh's Badi Palace

Essaouira has built its touristic reputation as an art hub

Fly/Sleep Qatar Airways flies direct from Doha to Casablanca daily for about QR 3,000 return. Visitors can get an ongoing flight to Marrakesh, or travel overland via national train network ONCF, or the Supratours coach network. For accommodation, consider a riad guesthouse for a local experience at good value, such as Dar Soukaina in Marrakesh (from QR 400), or Les Matins Bleus in Essaouira (from QR 230). n

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The Dish On Qatar QH SensationS

By Ashlee Starratt

For expats, getting sick in a new country while far from home can be a stressful experience to say the least. So to kick off 2015, we guide you in the right direction when it comes to navigating Qatarâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s public health-care system. 110 QH Jan 2015 PRESS.indd 110

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ast spring, I got sick. And I stayed sick for six months. What started out in mid-May as a persistent spring cold and throat infection eventually turned into acute, recurrent tonsillitis, four months straight of non-stop antibiotics, a bout of appendicitis in July requiring emergency surgery and an operation to have my tonsils removed back in October. I feel like I’ve been through the wringer. I also feel like I’ve had a crash course on the ins and outs of Qatar’s hospital system – enough to be able to share what I’ve learned here. To start, the country has a two-tiered approach to health-care, with both public and private sector hospitals and clinics. Every expat who lives, works and is sponsored in Qatar receives their Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC) health card. On the back of this card is listed your blood type and a checklist of any important medical data; there’s also a health centre number assigned to you. By going online to www.phcc.qa you can find out where your Primary Health Care Center (PHCC) is located based on the number on your health card – for example, mine’s 24 which corresponds to the Al Muntazah PHCC. The Primary Health Care Centers in Qatar offer a range of services that can be utilized either for free or for a minimal charge because they are accessible with the use of your HMC health card. Vaccination clinics, dental clinics, family medicine, radiology, ENT and myriad more services can be offered at your local PHCC. The downside is they often tend to be busier than private clinics (Ex: Future Medical, Doha Clinic, Al Ahli Hospital) so wait times can be significantly longer. If you have privately-brokered health insurance coverage through your employer you can use it to access services at a private clinic and in turn use your insurance card to cover any approved medical costs under your plan, or access reimbursement if you’re required to pay upfront. Not all private sector companies in Qatar offer private insurance to their employees, so it’s not unusual for some expats to pay out of pocket for an individual policy in order to have the peace of mind that they are fully covered no matter where they go. Allianz Worldwide is a comprehensive international provider (www.allianzworldwidecare.com) though you can expect to pay fairly hefty premiums as an expat. Currently all Qatari nationals have coverage under the government-run National Health Insurance Company’s Seha program. (www.nhic.qa). The referrals process to see a specialist is also quite different here in Qatar – you have to do most of the leg-work yourself. When I got sick I saw an ENT (Ear, Nose and Throat) doctor at a private clinic and requested a referral letter from him to see an ENT specialist at Hamad Hospital.

The Cuban Hospital in Zikreet

I then had to physically take the referral to the Outpatient Department at Hamad and submit it for approval. After a week I got a phone call from their Patient Contact Center with my appointment time. You must pay a doctor’s fee each time you see a specialist at Hamad, but it’s minimal – to open a file as a new patient it’s QR 50, then for each follow-up appointment it’s QR 30. I managed to get an appointment fairly quickly – two weeks from my date of application, but was told that I could possibly be waiting another four or five months to have my operation scheduled. When you’re sick and feeling run-down, this is the last thing you want to hear – and even the doctors I was seeing at the private clinic had told me the wait-lists at Hamad are lengthy. The good thing about HMC is that it comprises several state-run hospital facilities across the country – Women’s Hospital, Rumailah Hospital, Heart Hospital, Al Khor and Al Wakrah Hospitals and The Cuban Hospital. I’d heard rave reviews about the quality of care at The Cuban Hospital, located in Zikreet – about a 45-minute drive from Doha on the way to Dukhan. Borne out of a joint initiative between Qatar and Cuba to share knowledge and resources, the hospital is staffed entirely by Cuban doctors and nurses – who are some of the best in the country. I had to go back to get a second referral which I faxed off to The Cuban Hospital; the next morning they called me with an appointment for the following day. My operation was scheduled for two weeks after that. Because the hospital is part of HMC, the operation was free and I only had to pay a fee of QR 100 for the overnight stay and QR 13 for all of my prescriptions – though that last figure will vary per individual. The wards were clean and bright, the staff incredibly friendly and I had a private room. For me, the quality and expediency of care at The Cuban Hospital makes it worth the drive to get there. (www.cuban.hamad.qa.)

Though all hospitals in Qatar have an emergency department, if you experience a medical crisis in Qatar, nine times out of ten you’ll be taken to Hamad – especially if you dial 999 for an ambulance. As the largest facility in the country, they are the best-equipped to handle virtually any type of case that comes through the door. Also, if you’re referred for emergency surgery (as I was with appendicitis), then you will only pay a fee of QR 100 per day if your stay in-hospital exceeds more than two days. It’s important to note that the ER at Hamad is segregated with a separate area for men and women. If you are accompanied by your husband or wife, father or mother, they will allow them to come into the room with you. But otherwise it’s same-sex escorts only to accompany patients. Like any hospital, cases in the ER get prioritized according to severity and my surgery was postponed for a full day as other life-threatening cases took precedence. When you’re discharged from the hospital you will be given an appointment card with the date of your next follow-up and the doctor’s stamp. The Patient Contact Center will call you a few days before to confirm and their SMS service will also send you a text message reminder. Don’t lose your appointment card as you’re required to bring it with you for every visit. I can only speak from my own experiences, but now that I’ve had a chance to recover and reflect, I can objectively say that, though time-consuming and at times frustrating with all the waiting…charting a course through the hospital system in Qatar was not as daunting as it sometimes seemed. Though the central Hamad Hospital can be overwhelming due its sheer size, long wait times and volume of patients, The Cuban Hospital was for me – and possibly many others, a literal life-saver. To learn more about all HMC facilities visit www.hamad.qa. n

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It Happened!

His Highness The Emir, Sheikh Tamim s Hamad Al Thani waves to the crowd gathered along the parade route

bin

Nasser Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint (centre) visits the Qatar Foundation El-Saai Darb National Day celebrations at

Qatar National Day Dec 18, 2014

Members of the Emiri Guard stand atop their camels in the parade

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their The younger generation shows of Qatar national pride, flying the colours

Aerial performances were a highlight of the day's events

Qatar National Day Dec 18, 2014

A spectacular fireworks display capped off the days festivities

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It Happened!

a Al-Remaihi, Salma Hayek L-R: Ayjal Festival Director Fatm Saeed Harib and Emirati director Mohammed

with Salma Hayek Young Ajyal jury members pose The Prophet at the premiere of Khalil Gibran's

DFI Ajyal Youth Film Festival Katara Dec 1-6, 2014

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biggest stars Held for the first time in Qatar, the the Katara in the world of opera gathered at ony Amphitheater for a gala award cerem

Oscar Della Lirica Awards Katara Dec 12, 2014

d bin Ibrahim al Sulaiti Katara's Director-General, Dr. Khale the star-studded event at ss addre ming welco the gives

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It Happened!

ntal Doha The team from the InterContine pride The City show their National Day ion with a cake honouring the occas

National Day Cake-Cutting InterContinental Doha The City Dec 18, 2014

s this A traditional Qatari fortress adorn on special National Day culinary creati

Tree Lighting Ceremony InterContinental Doha The City Dec 10, 2014

This little one got a bit too excited about meeting Santa!

A children's choir raised the roof with traditional Christmas carols

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A mass choir had onlookers in a festive spirit

Making some truly colourful, festive creations

Tree Lighting Ceremony The Grand Hyatt Dec 5, 2014

Gingerbread Decorating CLASS Marriott Marquis City Center Doha Dec 6, 2014

an The kids took over Quick Bites for afternoon of fun and sweet treats

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It Happened!

Pacha Ibiza Party Doha Marriott Nov 27,2014

Party people, party rockin!

world Florent Manaudou celebrates his record in the Men's 50-m Freestyle

Music meets fashion on-stage at Pacha

The 12th FINA World Swimming Championship Hamad Aquatic Center Dec 3-7, 2014

Evelin Verraszto competes in the y Women's 200-m Individual Medle

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Phone Directory Hotels / Restaurants Al Gassar Resort 4424-4881 Al Mourjan Restaurants 4483-4423 Banana Island Resort Doha by Anantara 4040-5050 Bert’s Cafe` 4495-3876 Biella 4467-7731 Crowne Plaza The Business Park 4408-7777 Doha Marriott Hotel 4429-8888 Four Seasons 4494-8888 Grand Heritage Doha Hotel and Spa 4445 5555 The Grand Hyatt 4448-1234 Holiday Villa 4408-4888 Hilton Doha 4423-3333 InterContinental 4484-4444 InterContinental Doha The City 4015-8888 Johnny Rockets Al Emadi Complex 4455 2792 Hyatt Plaza 4460 4210 Kempinski Residences & Suites 4405-3333 La Cigale 4428 8888 Marriott Marquis City Center Doha 4419-5000 Mövenpick Hotel 4429-1111 Mövenpick Tower & Suites 4496-6600 Nando’s Delivery Hotline 4436-0606 Oryx Rotana 4402-3333 Radisson Blu 4428-1555 Red Velvet 4408 0700 Sharq Village & Spa 4425-6666 Sealine Beach Resort 4476-5299 Sheraton Doha 4485-4444 St. Regis Doha 4446-0000 The Diplomatic Club 4484-7444 The Ritz-Carlton 4484-8000 The Torch Doha 4446-5600 W Doha Hotel & Residences 4453-5000 Wyndham Grand Regency 4434-3333 Zubarah Boutique Hotel 4447-0000

Airlines Air Arabia 4432-2111 Air India 4441-8423 Egypt Air 4435-2901 Emirates 4438-4477 Etihad Airways 4436-6657 Gulf Air 4499-8000 Qatar Airways 4449-6666

Health / Beauty Amaoras RelaxationSpa Angsana Spa Bay View 26, Wellness Centre Bio-Bil Health, Beauty & Spa Ladies Men’s Bliss Bottega Verde Coiffeur Française Dados Beauty Salon Diva Lounge Diplomatic Spa Doha Dental Doha Marriott Spa Ebn Sina Medical Foot Care Centre Lulu Gharafa The Center City Center Four Seasons Spa Frank Provost Glow American Salon, Salwa Rd. West Bay GoodLife Chemist City Center The Pearl Guerlain Alfardan Spa Habibs Hair and Beauty Salon La Cigale - Ozone Spa Medical Spa Villaggio Patrice Salon Ritz-Carlton Spa Saray Spa Six Senses Spa Snips Salonon

4408-4085 4434-3152 4496-6410 4493-4433 4483-0989 4453-5555 4483-4535 4468-9211 4498-0033 4431-8488 4484-7412 4431-7766 4429-8520 800-2288 4478-0510 4436-6275 4493-0394 4494-8801 4494-8844 4468-9945 4411-7652 4483-9100 4495-3876 4420-8660 4413-0672 4428-8888 4451-7590 4485-4012 4484-8173 4419-5517 4425-6999 4408-4083

Tourism / Travel Alpha Tours Arabian Adventures World Wide Destination Fox Transport Gulf Adventures Qatar Airways Holidays Qatar International Adventures Qatar International Tours Qatar Tourism & Exhibitions Authority Regency Travel & Tour Victoria Car Rental Khalifa International Tennis and Squash Complex

4434-4496 4436-1461 4467-1200 4462-2777 4422-1888 4449-6969 4455-3954 4455-1141 4499-7499 4434-4444 4466-6635 4440 9666

Hospitals / Emergency Ambulance, Police & Fire Department

999

Doha Clinic Hospital 4438-4333 Emergency Hotline 4435-5999 Al Ahli Hospital 4489-8000 Hamad General Hospital 4439-2222

Rumailah Hospital 4439-3333 Pediatric Emergency 4439-2948 Qatar Foundation for Child & Woman Protection Hotline 4466-6671

Ahmed Hassan Bilal Group Real Estate Ahmed Hassan Bilal 4442-8877 Trad. & Cont. Co. www.ahbqatar.com Interior Forum Design 4456-8716 Restaurants Chowking Salwa Road 4437-1212 Chowking Al Saad St. 4431-4411 Chowking Al Khor 4411-8816/ 4411-8817 Chowking Mamoura 4486-6077 Chowking Holiday Villa 4411-5225/335 Publications ABODE/QH Magazines

4427-8416

Shopping Alfardan Jewellery 4440-8408 City Center Doha 4483-0582 Hyatt Plaza 4469-4848 Landmark Mall 4487-5222 Lagoona Mall 4433-5555 Maya Paris 4495-3876 4495-3207 Salam 4448-5555 Villaggio 4413-5222 Virgin Megastore Villaggio 4413-5823 Landmark 4418-2245

Clubs Bridge Club Doha Garden Club Dana Club Doha Golf Club Doha Sailing Club

5554-0873 5523-1650 4496-0600 4496-0777 4443-9840

Embassies American Embassy Brazilian Embassy British Embassy Chinese Embassy French Embassy German Embassy Japanese Embassy Nepalese Embassy Philippine Embassy South African Embassy U.A.E. Embassy

4496-6000 4483-8812 4496-2000 4493-4205 4402-1702 4408-2334 4484-0888 4467-5681 4483-1585 6622-1552 4483-8880

Websites www.qatarhappening.com www.iloveqatar.net www.justlanded.com/english/Qatar www.qatarliving.com www.qatartourism.gov.qa

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