Qatar Happening - April 2014 by Qatar Happening

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Table of Contents

pg 18 Backstage Pass With Cirque Éloize

OUT CHECK pening.com

atarhap ion! www.q test informat la for the

APRIL MENT ENTERTAIN

EVERY ISSUE 9 Editor-In-Chief's Letter

QH's Editor-in-Chief tells you what's happening this month

QH Speaks

114

120

The best of our monthly social media

Top Picks

Dora Explores Doha

Art Without Borders

Backstage Pass

Events Calendar

Pullout calendar with the city’s do-not-miss monthly events

It Happened

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

Phone Directory

Need-to-know phone numbers

TURE ARTS & CUL

Our favourite girl-wonder hits the stage with Dora The Explorer Live! Search for the City of Lost Toys Cirque Éloize flies into Doha with their latest production iD

Ferry Corsten Live

The QH cover boy and Dutch DJ sensation has a slot at La Cigale this month

Party Hoppin’ Happenings 26

The party is back at The Four Seasons pier

Entertainment Listings

The Create & Inspire competition launches in partnership with Qatar Brazil 2014

We Are One People

Celebrate world music with the Desert Bridges ensemble

The Fiddler Of Qatar

Transcending musical borders with solo violinist MAias Alyamani

Arts & Culture Listings 40

Find out everything that’s going on this month

LIKE US ON FACEBOOK www.facebook.com/qatarhappening

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Table of Contents COMMUNITY 41

Top Picks

Undiscovered Qatar

Step back in time and explore Qatar's historic castles and forts

A Helping Hand

Community Listings

The Ritz-Carlton Doha's Community Footprints program is changing lives Find out everything that’s going on this month

KIDS CLUB 47

Top Picks

Family Fun Days

A day at the souqs can be a fun outing for both young and old

Kids Club Listings

pg 60 Enjoy A Two-For-One Brunch At La Spiga

Fun ideas to do with the kids

ING FOOD & DIN 55

Top Picks

Prime-Time

A Night In The Ring

There's more than filet mignon on the menu at The InterContinental Doha The City's Prime restaurant

Brunch La Spiga-Style Tear out our two-for-one voucher for The W Doha's newest Italian hot-spot

Easter Events

Egg-hunting, chocolate rabbits, Easter brunches and more!

Food & Dining Listings

Find out everything that’s going on this month

QH Recommends

In the spotlight with champion boxer Joe Calzaghe at the Radisson Blu

QH Gets Pampered

Golf Is My Passion

103

Reasons To Fly

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An Arabian Paradise

108

Virgin Recommends

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Spotlight On Movies Our top five must-see films of the month

Qatari pro-golfer Yasmine Al-Sharshani is queen of the greens

Move Better, Feel Better Why warming up to work out matters

Sports Listings

Find out everything that’s going on this month

e. Feedback and comments are always welcom Please forward letters to the editor:

Call Details: Inquiries: Marketing:

Email: editor@qatarhappening.com

Fax:

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Our favourite monthly must-haves We get in the zone at La Cigale's Ozone Spa Our pick of top destinations It's sheer grandeur at Abu Dhabi's Emirates Palace The best monthly entertainment picks from the Megastore

112 The Dish On Qatar

Have Your Say: info@qatarhappening.com jorge@qatarhappening.com

IONS QH SENSAT

SPORTS

What to do in an emergency? We've got you covered.

+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 Editor-In-Chief

On the Cover? Dora The Explorer with her friends Diego and Boots Photo Credit: Life Like Touring

Dear friends, Welcome to our latest April edition of the magazine. Spring is about new beginnings and discovering new things about ourselves and the people and places around us. Therefore, this month we have made it our mission to bring you the new, the unexplored, and the best-kept secrets of Qatar’s cultural and natural history. In our Community section we probe the furthest reaches of undiscovered Qatar – the castles, forts and archaeological sites that are sometimes seldom visited by the public, but which hold great insight and meaning into our collective story as country. There are also discoveries to be made in the arena of Arts and Culture as oftentimes artistic expression and dialogue are the best ways to learn and discover more about each other as a society. This edition we are proud to expose you to two incredible musicians whose work are making waves throughout Qatar and beyond. First, Cheo Jeffery Allen Solder and the Desert Bridges ensemble brings together musicians and artists from a variety of mediums and backgrounds to create performance pieces that challenge our perception of the boundaries of the mind we place upon ourselves as human beings. Secondly we introduce to the spotlight Syrian solo violinist and Doha String Quartet member MAias Alyamani, whose music and message strive to explore the common bonds we all share. With a new CD Off Stage just recently released, this vibrant artist is gaining international recognition with his blend of modern classical Arabic music. On the family fun front, the well-loved children’s character Dora The Explorer will enchant audiences at the QNCC later this month. With her sense of adventure and love of nature, Dora is another role model to teach our children about the wonder and discovery of the world around us. We bring you all the show-times and ticket details in our Entertainment section.

World-renowned DJ Ferry Corsten Photo Credit: Global DJs

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 Executive Editorial Director: Moona Masri-Whitice Editor: Ashlee Starratt Finalizer / Production Manager: Srimani Welagedara Lead Designer / Brand Manager: Zahi Srour Photographer: Jessie Palanca Listings Coordinator: Marlynne Mallari-Dela Pena Web Coordinator: Imran Khan Intern: Chantelle D’Mello Sales and Marketing Manager: Deliah Furcoi Sales and Communications Manager: Jorge Granda Marketing Coordinator: Chet Tibayan Distribution & Accounts: Lanie Fillo-Pana Contributors: Mai Akkad, Sarah Al Motairi, Reine Atrach,

Amy Bassett, Jacqueline Bodnar, John Hunt, Nadir Khamis, Alexandre Orion, Jonny Parr, Charlie Sands, Gerald Tan

We hope that, in keeping with our theme of undiscovered Qatar, you may also make discoveries of your own as you flip through this issue. A new event, an engaging feature, a new fact or detail about life in Qatar and all that’s going on here on a daily, weekly and monthly basis. We are, as always, here for you. Thank you for making us a part of your lives,

QATAR HAPPENING (QH) is published 11 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.

Nasser Ahmed Hassan Bilal

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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QH Speaks

Tweets Of The Month @TechNodeJohnny

“Decisiveness is a characteristic of highperforming men and women. Almost any decision is better than no decision at all.” – Brian Tracy.

@dohanews

Sheraton Doha to close doors indefinitely to undergo renovations.

@DeeDee_ALM

Does running late count as exercise, ‘cause I'm really good at it.

@loveoflolly

A must try in #qatar @thetorchdoha organizes a picnic basket at Aspire Park for you. How much more fabulous…

best of the best We ask, you answer. Here’s the this month, plus from our social media top picks you’re saying! our Editor’s Corner. Here’s what

Editor’s Corner Well, it’s one of those months again – where there are too many great events head-lining in Doha that we had to have not one, but two covers! First up on the docket we’ve got the legendary DJ Ferry Corsten set to perform live at Club Seven in La Cigale on April 10, courtesy of Global DJs. After his successful performance last year at the InterContinental Doha beach party, the Dutch DJ is back for another round. With collaborations on re-mixes with Justin Bieber and original compositions with Duran Duran under his belt, we bring you Ferry’s star-studded roster of hits in our Entertainment section. Making a bit of a one-eighty from the dance-floor, we move to the stage with the latest production from the same folks who brought you Barney Let’s Go! Live On-Stage! last November. Now it’s the intrepid explorer Dora, who’s coming to Doha for the first time in the family-friendly stage show Dora The Explorer Live! Search for the City of Lost Toys held at Al Rayyan Theatre in Souq Waqif from April 10-18. We go behind the scenes with the creative team and discover how Dora came to be one of the most popular children’s figures in animation. There’s also some compelling stories in our Arts & Culture pages this month on local musician MAias Alyamani, plus the Desert Bridges group who aim to change the world through the power of music. While over in Community we take you deeper into our national history with a story on the castles and forts of Qatar that will have you stepping back in time. We love this issue and hope you do too! See you next month,

@GlobalDJs

I just can't get you out of my mind, your love is all I think about! Mark Knight #Doha #March20th #2014.

In Your Face

’s theme of In keeping with this month asked our Facebook ‘Undiscovered Qatar’, we and what are their followers to tell us where in Qatar. Here are es sur trea den hid e favourit ed: eal rev you ts the special spo

Mohamed Mrzouk

“One of the most amazing places, with its own hidden and charming beauty are the ruins of old houses in Al-Ghariya. These houses are established in front of the sea. “

Fatimah Ashraf Khan

"Al-Zubarah Fort, the ruins of its old fishing village, Zikreet with its spectacular limestone formations and Film City and the rock huts near it hold a special place in our hearts! Both are places we keep going back to. Qatar is truly beautiful in so many ways...one just has to go, explore, admire and make it part of one's memories to be cherished forever!"v

Shrustiga Saravanan

“In Qatar, Fuwairait Beach is a hidden treasure. This place…I keep going there.”

Ashlee Starratt Editor

LIKE US ON FACEBOOK www.facebook.com/qatarhappening

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Entertainment

s k c i P p o T â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s This Month

Doha Marriott Jamrock With Wayne Wonder

Radisson Blu Grandmaster Flash April 25: Qube. Famous for his hit records The Message and White Lines, this American hip-hop recording artist and DJ needs no introduction! Gents QR 120 regular/QR 150 VIP, ladies free entrance, starts at 9:00 p.m. Qatari ID required. For more information call 4428-1555.

Kempinski Residences & Suites

InterContinental Doha The City

Slow Motion Vogue

Bunny Fun In Strata April 18: Strata. Who says Easter is only for kids? Join the party in Strata with Global DJs. QR 100 per person including one Easter cocktail. From 9:30 p.m. till late. Don't forget your bunny suit! For more information call 4015-8888.

OUT om .c CHECaK ppening

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April 4: The Pearl Lounge. Reggae dance-hall sensation, the one-and-only Wayne Wonder is hitting up Doha for one rhythm-infused night at The Pearl Lounge. Tickets are available the Doha Marriott concierge desk, QR 150 for gents, QR 75 for ladies. Show starts from 8:00 p.m. and goes till 2:00 a.m. For more information call 4429-8888.

La Cigale Ziad Khoury Live April 4: Madison Piano Bar. Be part of a delightful night at Madison Piano Bar with renowned Lebanese singer Ziad Khoury and the band conducted by Maestro Elie El Alia. QR 250 entrance fee, membership required. For more information call 4428-8665 or 5518-8008.

Wednesdays: The Lounge. Longplayer joins the team of The Lounge and funks up one of the most booming nights out in Doha. Start the weekend early with the Slow Motion Vogue at Kempinski and dance with sophisticated Latin, funk, disco, boogie and re-edited sounds. Socialize with the trendiest crowd in the city and sip the hippest cocktails. 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.

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Entertainment

Dora Explores Doha As told to Jorge Granda Images courtesy of Life Like Touring

Dora The Explorer is coming to Doha with a fun production of Dora The Explorer Live! Search for the City of Lost Toys from April 10-18. QH talks to the show's creator to find out how this beloved children's TV character came to life.

o wonder Dora is known to millions of pre-school children around the world as Dora the Explorer. The heroine of a series of animation adventures since August 2000, Dora’s exploits have been screened in almost thirty different languages, from Hebrew to Hindi, Tamil to Turkish. Nor has she been content to remain on the screen. In fact, Dora has played to a combined live audience of more than two million people through the stage show Dora the Explorer Live! Search for the City of Lost Toys. In the past three years, Dora’s itchy feet have taken her to theatres in Asia, Australasia and

the United Kingdom, underlining her massive international appeal. All this must be music to the ears of the three people credited with dreaming up the Dora phenomenon: Valerie Walsh Valdes, Eric Weiner and Chris Gifford who confesses with a laugh that memories have faded over the years and so it’s difficult to be absolutely certain of who did what during the development of the character. “I can say that I was the driving force behind her from the beginning,” explains Gifford. “I was leading the charge, if you will, because I felt that it was the ideal time to create a new character.” It would be tempting to think it a relatively straightforward process to develop a figure such as Dora, who has proved to be an instant and enduring success. However, there were a number of interesting stages in the genesis of the character whom millions of young children, drawn from many and various cultures, have taken to their hearts. “During the period of development, Dora took the form of many different human beings as well as a variety of animals,” says Gifford. “At one stage she was going to be a bunny rabbit.

Dora's furry nemesis Swiper

But she became a girl very quickly; perhaps it was because I had a five-year-old daughter at the time, as well as a three-year-old son and I think I put something of their relationship into Dora and her friends. Then one of the people at Nickelodeon approached us and asked how we felt about making Dora a Latina. So we brought in a number of people to advise us. It was felt at the time that Hispanic people were underrepresented on television and this was one of the ways in which we could redress the balance. I think that it was probably the most important journey we took.” Making the central character a Latina was also useful in that it opened up a new range of narrative possibilities. “We knew that we’d be going on a journey with Dora that would involve learning and exploration, and Dora’s ethnicity enables us to use the topography, the geography, the mythology of Latino culture as part of the

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With Dora's Doha debut organized by State Media, parents and children can enjoy the show over eight days at the Al Rayyan Theatre

from his fate by my lack of any acting talent,” says Gifford with a smile. “Putting Dora on stage has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my professional life and it has given me the opportunity of travelling to Australia, Israel, the Middle East and Latin America. The television show runs for only twenty-two minutes so we’ve had time in the theatre to play with the dynamics of the story and with the relationships between the characters. You mustn’t go on for too long, however. This audience will soon need a ‘potty break’.”

Dora the Explorer Live! Search for the City of Lost Toys Everyone’s favourite explorer is embarking on a live musical adventure in Nickelodeon’s Dora the Explorer Live! Search for the City of Lost Toys. Dora the Explorer has lost her teddy bear Osito, and the search is on to retrieve him! With the help of the audience, Map, Backpack, Boots, Diego and their courageous friends, Dora uses her map-reading, counting, musical and language skills to successfully pass through the number pyramid and the mixed-up jungle to reach the City of Lost Toys. But watch out - you never know what that sneaky fox Swiper might be up to along the way!

Dora must master her math skills and pass through the number pyramid in search of the City of Lost Toys

process of discovery,” Gifford reminisces. “We never say how old Dora is, although we think of her as about five or six – but we know that she can read and that she goes on journeys, journeys beyond the point which most five or six-year-olds can go. Dora can take the audience on the kind of adventure which the kids couldn’t experience for themselves.” Dora’s avid followers are, by definition, at the start of their lives and their developing minds are open to all kinds of possibilities, possibilities which the creative team behind Dora the Explorer hope to meet.“The story was originally all about problem-solving and there’s still a pretty strict seven-point editorial curriculum which is based on Howard Gardner’s multiple intelligences,” explains Gifford. “It’s a given that in every episode Dora will display one of her strengths – everything from maths to music.” While Dora remains in a perpetual childhood, like a latter-day Peter Pan, her audience will

inevitably be aging and there have been a number of TV specials, set in the future, in which an older Dora has appeared, presumably to keep pace with the older demographic. Dora is also the focus of a group of friends with whom she shares some of her adventures. Her adversary is the cunning Swiper. “He’s the classic villain,” remarks Gifford. “In fact, he was the first character we thought of when we had the original idea. He’s pretty harmless really, although I did have a battle with my colleagues when we argued about giving him a number of sharp teeth in order to make him look a little scary.” You could argue that Gifford’s own background – his father was an actor and Gifford himself took to the boards – made him more sympathetic perhaps, to the idea of transferring Dora to the stage. “I had a firsthand view of the struggles which my father went through but luckily I was saved

Dora the Explorer fans will delight in this twoact, song and dance spectacular that invites them to think, sing and play along. n

DORA THE EXPLORER LIVE! SEARCH FOR THE CITY OF LOST TOYS Venue: Al Rayyan Theatre, Souq Waqif Dates: April 10-18 Show Timings: Thurs, April 10: 5:00 p.m., Fri-Sat, April 11-12: 3:00 p.m. & 6:00 p.m. Sun-Thurs, April 13-17: 5:00 p.m. Friday, April 18: 3:00 p.m. & 6:00 p.m. Ticket Info: General, QR 100 Silver, QR 150 Gold, QR 250 VIP, QR 300 VVIP, QR 500 Private Lounge (26 seats only), QR 800 Tickets available at Virgin Megastores or online at tickets.virginmegastore.me.

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Entertainment A mix of urban acrobatics, Cirque Éloize blends everything from hoop spectacles to street juggling (below)

Backstage Pass As told to Jorge Granda

Last month we sat down with director Jeannot Painchaud to explore the urban world of the stage production iD coming to Doha on April 2-5. This month we bring you all the facts and figures of Cirque Éloize at a glance! ‘Éloize’ is a Francophone word that comes from Canada’s Magdalen Islands in Québec and means ‘flashes of heat lightning seen on the horizon’. An inspiration for the troupe’s founding members this lightning symbolizes the heat and energy which feeds the troupe’s spirit. Positioned at the heart of the renewal of circus arts, Cirque Éloize has been creating moving performances filled with magic since 1993. Continually striving for artistic perfection, it’s one of the leaders in contemporary circus arts. Based on the multi-disciplinary talents of its artists, Cirque Éloize expresses its innovative nature through theatricality and humanity, combining circus arts with music, dance and theatre in a path-breaking and original manner. With ten original productions to its credit, Cirque Éloize has presented more than 4,000 performances in over 440 cities and 40 countries. Its touring cast has taken part in numerous prestigious international festivals and its shows have seduced Broadway and the West End. In addition to its touring shows, Cirque Éloize develops custom-made concepts for international special events, and to date more than 1,300 events have taken place.

A History Of Cirque Éloize • Founded in 1993 in Montréal, Québec, Canada. • 10 original productions: - 1993 - Cirque Éloize - 1997 - Excentricus - 1999 - Cirque Orchestra - 2002 - Nomade - At night, the sky is endless - 2003 - Typo - 2004 - Rain - 2007 - Nebbia (co-produced with Teatro Sunil) - 2009 - iD - 2012 - Cirkopolis - 2013 - Le Music-Hall de la Baronne - Currently touring: iD since 2009 and Cirkopolis since 2012 • The company has more than 4,000 performances to its credit in over 440 cities and 40 countries. • Over 3.5 million spectators have seen a Cirque Éloize show. • More than 100 collaborators are working on various projects.

• The circus productions are created for the general public and pose no language barrier. • Jeannot Painchaud was the recipient of the 2011 Prix Samuel de Champlain. • Cirque Éloize was the winner of the 26thGrand Prix du Conseil des Arts de Montréal in 2010 for iD and its exceptional exposure. n CIRQUE ÉLOIZE PRESENTS iD Location: Qatar National Convention Centre (QNCC) Timings: Wed, April 2 at 8:00 p.m. Thurs, April 3 at 8:00 p.m. Friday, April 4 at 3:30 p.m. & 8:00 p.m. Sat, April 5 at 1:30 p.m. & 6:00 p.m. Ticket Info: QR 95, bronze QR 195, silver QR 295, gold QR 495, platinum QR 650, VIP QR 1,500, royal Tickets are available at Virgin Megastores in Villaggio and Landmark malls or online at tickets.virginmegastore.me.

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Entertainment Doha goes Dutch as DJ Ferry Corsten readies the decks for a one-night-only set at Club Seven

e iv L n e t s r o C y r r e F Straight from Rotterdam, the Netherlands, DJ Ferry Corsten hits up Doha on April 10 to perform live at Club Seven in La Cigale Hotel. QH introduces you to his signature sound.

erry Corsten’s illustrious career is exemplified by a passion for music that began as a hobby and spiralled into a full-blown profession. Today, as it was in the beginning, Corsten’s skills lie in his ability to coax the maximum emotional impact from electronic dance music of all genres, not just trance, but also progressive-house and electro. He remains and has always been ahead of his time, making music that becomes a template for others to follow. It was the album, Out Of The Blue that started it all. As Corsten’s sophomoric artist album under the alias, System F, the eponymous single became a worldwide hit and charted in the UK’s Top 20 UK singles charts and Japan’s Top 10 singles charts for three consecutive years after its release. Corsten’s rapid success ignited a steady flow of releases including ‘Gouryella’ with Tiësto. It was during this time that his remix of William Orbit’s ‘Barber’s Adagio For Strings’ became a club-land anthem. Though the

original appeared in Oliver Stone’s film, Platoon, it was Corsten’s heady remix that took the composition’s strongest elements and amplified them into a singular, explosive masterpiece. Offers for remix work poured in furiously ever since, with the latest being a remix of Justin Bieber’s ‘As Long As You Love Me’ for Island Def Jam in 2012. Corsten has also consistently appeared near the top of international DJ polls and has won his share of industry awards. Over the years, he’s released a steady flow of new music with seven full-length studio albums under his belt, namely: Looking Forward as Ferry; Out Of The Blue and Together as System F; and Right Of Way, L.E.F., Twice In A Blue Moon and WKND as Ferry Corsten. These seven killer albums have yielded more than their share of gold records, including ‘Punk’, ‘Out Of The Blue’, ‘Rock Your Body Rock’, and other world-class hits including ‘Made Of Love’ featuring Betsie Larkin and ‘Radio Crash’. In

2006 when Corsten released ‘Fire’ with Duran Duran front-man Simon LeBon, that record also became a solid radio hit. The following year, his smash single, ‘Beautiful’, was released to widespread acclaim, continuing to be in demand by Corsten’s audiences around the globe whenever he DJs. n FERRY CORSTEN LIVE Date: Thursday, April 10 Location: Club Seven, La Cigale Hotel Ticket Info: QR 200, Tickets on sale at Virgin Megastores, Crepaway and at La Cigale Contact Info: Call 5518-8008 or visit the Global DJs Facebook page

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Entertainment Cabana-users can make use of The St. Regis' pristine beach

Enjoy all the comforts of home with free WiFi and flat-screen TV

We loved a dip in the private jacuzzi after a rigourous catamaran sailing lesson (left)

An Urban Retreat Words and selected images by Ashlee Starratt Additional photography by Nadir Khamis

We while away the weekend in the exclusive beachfront cabanas at The St. Regis Doha with a full day of sun, surf and sand.

hen it comes to weekend shenanigans, more often than not I find myself looking for something new. After you’ve been in Doha for a while you feel like you’ve seen and done it all and are just going through the motions on repeat. Which is why my fun factor quotient hit the roof when we decided to get a bunch of friends together and spend a day at the poolside, beachfront cabanas at The St. Regis.

ourselves in our own private jacuzzi. At The St. Regis it’s all about the added touches, and when you rent a cabana you’re treated as though you’re an in-house guest – with full access to the beach and pool facilities, plus water-sport activities. A few of our group tried their hand at a catamaran lesson, heading out to hit the waves while the wind was good, while the rest of us frolicked on the beach and made use of their massive trampoline on the water.

With room for around eight to ten people, the cabanas are one of the hotel’s best-kept secrets. Private, lush and secluded by tall hedges, they’re almost like a little villa where you, your friends and family can spend the day. With sliding-glass doors, tons of natural light, a flat-screen TV, plush living room area, free WiFi, a full-length dining room table, kitchenette and two fullbathrooms with rain-showers it’s really an idyllic weekend escape. You can even have in-room spa treatments courtesy of Remède Spa, where they’ll literally bring the massage table to your cabana – luxury overload!

The level of service was attentive, with waiters and hosts available on call to bring us trays of food and pitchers of drinks, and checking in on a regular basis to see if we were in need of anything. Serving us a variety of items off the Oyster Bay menu, plus the special cabana menu, we tucked in family-style around the table to delicious butterfly coconut prawns, rich goatcheese nachos, beef quesadillas, fresh garden and Caesar salads, piping hot empanadas with chimichurri sauce, chicken drum-sticks with a kick of tangy barbecue and pitchers of spicy tomato cocktail, lemon with mint and a fruity pink Rasta Love concoction.

Thrilled to find the cabana came stocked with board games, we tried our hand at a few rounds of Scrabble at the outdoor patio table, before kicking back on the sun loungers and immersing

As the sun set, the cabana area lit up with soft mood lighting as we sat around – freshly showered and bundled up, gabbing about

anything and everything under the sun. The day was full-on and chock-a-block, but also incredibly relaxing and a great bonding experience with friends. The nice thing too if you book on a weekend is that, though the cabanas close at sunset, you can stay on and book a table for the reggae on the beach which, for us, was the cherry on top of an already incredible, jam-packed day. So next time you’re struggling for weekend options, a cabana day might be just what the doctor ordered. Bring a crowd of friends, your beach gear, a good book and your favourite music, and split the cost for an affordable weekend that will leave you ticking off the days till the next one. n CABANAS AT THE ST. REGIS DOHA Number Of Guests: Accommodates 8-10 people comfortably Timings: 9:00 a.m. till sunset Price: Weekdays: QR 2,000 full-day rental, plus QR 1,000 minimum spend on food and beverage Weekends: QR 3,000 full-day rental, plus QR 1,000 minimum spend on food and beverage Contact Info: Call 4446-0000 or visit www.stregisdoha.com or www.dohalifestyleandspa.com.

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Entertainment

e d i u G n u F l a v i t s e F By Amy Bassett

You don’t have to be born on the bayou to appreciate the soulful sounds of rhythm and blues. We head on over to the luscious land of Mardi Gras to soak up the sounds of the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival.

ention the city of New Orleans, Louisiana and instantly the mind conjures swampy images of magic and mysticism, crawfish and gumbo, people of all walks enjoying music in the streets, life at a laid-back pace, a grand Southern drawl. A true cultural crossroads, with AfricanAmerican, Spanish, French, Cajun, Creole and Native-American heritage, New Orleans is the ultimate definition of a ‘melting-pot’ and well deserves the bragging rights of being the most diverse city in the US. It’s the home of Creole and American voodoo, the birthplace of jazz, and the perfect destination for the festival-seeker looking for a week that delivers a good dollop of history and mystique along with the music.

Company in 1718 as a major port city around the same time African slavery was established in the South. It’s the only city in the country which allowed ‘enslaved blacks’ to own and play African drums, and practice the spiritual rites of voodoo. Rituals were accepted and attended by people from across the social spectrum, racial tolerance was (relatively) high and New Orleans became one of the first cities to accept ‘free blacks’ into society allowing them education, accumulation of wealth and artistic expression. Eventually the intermingling of the rhythmic African drum and European brass instruments met with the Negrospiritual songs of the church to give birth to the vibrant new sound of jazz, laying the foundation for the future of all American music.

Straddling the legendary Mississippi River, New Orleans was founded by the French Mississippi

Isn’t it fitting then, that New Orleans should play host to one of the most popular

Trombone Shorty doing what he does best

and long-running music festivals in the world? The New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival, or the JazzFest, was first held in 1970, attracting around 350 attendees. Buy a ticket to the festival this year, and you’ll join around 400,000 revelers at the Fair Grounds Race Course, a comfy ten minutes from the city’s seductive French Quarter. The seven days of musical immersion takes place over two weekends, from Friday April 25 to Sunday April 27 and Thursday May 1 to Sunday May 4, giving those cheeky enough to stay both weekends a well-needed breather in the early week.

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e tickles the ivories Jazz legend George Duk

Hundreds of acts grace the three music stages during the festival, and yes, there is a lot of jazz on offer. Cats, fill your boots! They don’t call it the ‘First City of Jazz’ for nothin’… But bearing in mind, with the musical history that followed the jazz explosion in New Orleans, there’s plenty other ear-candy on offer too. Expect hearty helpings of everything from the traditional to the contemporary: pop, rock n roll, blues, Cajun, Zydeco, Latin, hip-hop, country, bluegrass, folk, afro, Caribbean…have I missed anything?? A skim across the bill reveals calorific servings of well-known, worth-seeing performers. Solange, Public Enemy, this generation’s soul legend Gregory Porter, Robert Plant and the Sensational Space Shifters, Keb Mo, Eric Clapton, Santana, Vampire Weekend, Chaka Khan, Alabama Shakes, The Wailers, Soul Rebels, Bruce Springsteen, Foster the People, Al Jarreau, Arcade Fire, Bobby Womack, Chick Corea and The Hot 8 Brass Band (highly recommended by this writer!)

The Black Keys rocking out

at last year's festival

Music is not the only star of the show at the JazzFest, the cuisine alone is something to be experienced. Cajun jambalaya, crabmeat po-boy, seafood gumbo, alligator pie and Cuban sandwiches are just a sample of the distinctly regional treats on offer, so be sure to work up an appetite and satisfy the taste-buds, alongside the ear! Tickets will set you back $70 USD per day if you wander up to the gate and purchase, but you’re better off taking a festival pass for $550 USD, or if you’re feeling luxe, there are three VIP ticket options, ranging up to $1,275 USD. VIPs allow you pass-outs, exclusive viewing at popular stages, fancy restrooms and access to the hospitality lounge – paying a little extra may pay off when you feel the need to catch some shade. Like Doha, New Orleans is hot this time of year! n

The one and only Bruce Springsteen proves that he's still The Boss

NEW ORLEANS JAZZ AND HERITAGE FESTIVAL Location: Fair Grounds Race Course, New Orleans, Louisiana, USA Dates: April 25-May 4 Ticket Info: $550 - $1,275 USD Available at www.nojazzfest.com Flights: $1,100 USD (www.expedia.com) Don’t Forget: Grab yourself a copy of the annual JazzFest poster – they’re collectible…and give you the perfect reason to return next year! Check Out: This helpful insiders’ guide to the festival www.gumbopages.com/insiders

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Entertainment From the beach to the pier, the party's back at The Four Seasons with a new location and a stellar vibe

Party Hoppin’

Happenings

By Jorge Granda Photography by Jessie Palanca

The party is back at The Four Seasons with a bold new outdoor venue that’s quickly made its mark as the go-to Thursday night spot. QH takes you inside the Party At The Pier.

was very much bummed out when I heard The Four Seasons had to cancel their Thursday night beach lounge at the Pool Bar due to Qatar’s new regulations. It was without a doubt one of the best places to go to on the weekend as it was the only al-fresco lounge and party hub in Doha (except for the beach parties at the InterContinental Doha). But as of last month, there’s some amazing news for all party-goers that used to enjoy the beachfront ambiance at the Pool Bar. The Four Seasons has re-launched the weekly seasonal party with an even better setup and atmosphere. The concept remains pretty much the same in the sense that one can enjoy a drink and the spectacular panoramic views of the West Bay skyline while listening to great tunes played by the resident DJ. Why is it better? Very simple – now the party takes place on the hotel’s fantastic wooden pier, looking out right at the

ocean. The set-up is much more sophisticated, bigger and comfortable. All across the pier there are beautifully-decorated white cabanas and tables all around, while the bar is much more accessible, located at the end of the pier. The music played by the DJ has significantly improved, with a range of pumped up house music and the sound is of the highest quality. Apart from the Sundowner Sessions at the Sharq Village & Spa, the Party At The Pier is the only other outdoor lounge in the city. I was pleasantly surprised at how enjoyable it was when I went. The crowd remains the same – chic and highend, and I’m sure it will quickly become the only place to be on a Thursday night with an upscale vibe that can makes you forget you’re in Doha, but rather in St. Tropez or St. Barts. There’s an annual fee for membership that entitles you to the following:

Sound-check? The DJ's on the deck till dawn

• Entrance to the Party At The Pier (weather permitting) • 10% savings at Il Teatro Restaurant • 10% savings at Arabica Café • 10% savings at Apres Spa Café ** Savings are applicable to food and soft drinks only So we’ll see you at the end of the dock this Thursday night. n PARTY AT THE PIER Location: The Four Seasons Timings: Thursdays, 8:00 p.m. till 1:00 a.m. Price: QR 200 annual membership, with valid Qatari ID Contact Info: Call 4494-8741

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Entertainment Listings RECOMMENDS

All listin per hot gs are categoriz el. Inclu ed s to avail ability o ion is limited f priority given to space, with advertis ers.

Buddha Bar ‘Big Friday’

THE GRAND HYATT

Whose Line Is It Anyway?

April 28: Al Silia Ballroom. An entertainment rollercoaster takes centre-stage at The Grand Hyatt Doha from 7:00 p.m. till 10:00 p.m. with a special performance of the mash-hit improvisation show Whose Line Is It Anyway?, featuring special guest Phill Jupitus. Get your tickets from The Grand Hyatt’s concierge desk for QR 150. Cash beverages are available. For more information call 4448-1234.

PROMOTIONS CROWNE PLAZA DOHA – THE BUSINESS PARK April Fools

April 3: Misturado. The hotel will celebrate this foolish day by giving out prizes for the best themed dress, so let’s show your creative side in accordance to the local regulations. Live entertainment from their resident DJ starts at 4:00 p.m. For more information call 4408-7777.

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA THE CITY Sundowner Special Daily: Strata. Visit Strata any weekday and experience the Sundowner Special from 5:00 p.m. till 7:00 p.m. With stunning views from the 56th floor why not escape the rush hour and relax after a long day. Watch the sunset from the highest lounge in Doha and enjoy burger sliders and some suds for just QR 100.

RADISSON BLU The Laughter Factory

April 7 & 8: Shehrazad. Three of the best comics present over two hours of club stand-up, direct from The Comedy Store in London. Both evenings are non- smoking events! Admission is QR 140 including one sponsored beverage. Doors open from 5:00 p.m., show starts at 8:00 p.m. For more information call 4428-1555.

Pub Quiz

April 28: Shehrazad. Let Geordie Andrew take you through his Pub Quiz challenge. Bring along your team of six players to test your knowledge against the best of Doha. Fantastic prizes for winners! Doors open at 5:00 p.m., quiz starts at 8:00 p.m. and entrance is free. For more information call 4428-1555. Qatari ID required.

SHARQ VILLAGE & SPA Sundowner Sessions

Fridays: Al Dana Terrace. The much-beloved lounge night makes a comeback on Al Dana Terrace. Doha's sunset spot comes to life every Friday with DJ Carl Roberts and special guests. From 4:00 p.m. till 1:00 a.m., entry is free. For more information call 4425-6666 or visit the Sundowner Sessions Al Dana Terrace Facebook page.

THE GRAND HYATT Cuban Nights

April 4-12: Dunes. Book your table at Dunes and indulge in an authentic Cuban fiesta with a hand-made Habanos cigar and premium single malts, while enjoying an exclusive Cuban jazz performance by Yani La Cubana and Juan. For more information call 7021-8094.

THE ST. REGIS DOHA Moulin Rouge Theme Party Night

April 10 & 11: JALC Doha. A night of jazz excitement and fun as Dominick Farinacci and band bring the spirit of Paris to life with a dazzling night of cabaret and can-can. Bookings recommended. From 9:30 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. For more information call 4446-0105 or email diningreservations@stregis.com.

W DOHA Lounge & Mingle

April 16 & 30: Wahm. DJ Adrien Callier continually amazes the social set, both locally and internationally, with his eclectic style of cross-mixing electronic dance music best defined as nu-disco and house. With a growing number of followers and new projects in the pipeline, Adrien is definitely the next big name to watch out for in the Middle East. From 10:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. For more information call 4453-5323 or BBM: 2A8F6AE5.

April 25: Wahm. French-Canadian DJ Nicholas Sechaud is no stranger to the international club and fine dining scene. Currently resident DJ at the world-renowned Siddhartha Lounge at Grosvenor House Dubai, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Nicholas has done a number of residencies across famed bars, clubs, lounges and restaurants worldwide, from Italy, Spain, Monaco, and Turkey to Uzbekistan and the Philippines. From 10:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. For more information call 4453-5323 or BBM: 2A8F6AE5.

Pure Crystal

April 13 & 27: Crystal. Proudly presenting DJ Stephane Karl, the legend of house and electro house music, coming all the way from the hottest parties of St. Tropez, mixing up the best of the best for a magic night to remember. For more information call 4453-3135 or BBM: 2ADD2715.

Carnival Night

April 4: Crystal. Presenting from the hottest parties in Miami, Florida, USA, the number one saxophonist Matt performing live in Doha alongside Crystal resident DJ Waylon Pereira mixing all the latest tunes. Starts at 10:00 p.m., strictly reservation and guest list only. For more information call 4453-3135 or BBM: 2ADD2715.

EVERY WEEK CROWNE PLAZA DOHA – THE BUSINESS PARK Happy Hours

Daily: Misturado will re-open its doors one hour earlier for you at 4:00 p.m. to broadcast more live sport events this coming season. Don’t miss out on the special happy hour daily 2-for-1 promotion on all house beverages. We dare you to go somewhere else! From 5:00 p.m. till 7:00 p.m. For more information call 4408-7777.

Shaken Or Stirred?

Mondays: Liquidity Lounge. The hotel invites you to chill out at Doha’s favourite roof-top restaurant while sipping freshly-made Liquidity beverages and listening to the funky beats of their favourite resident DJ. From 8:00 p.m. For more information call 4408-7777.

DOHA MARRIOTT Happy Hour

Daily: The Pearl Lounge. Unwind in chic and elegant surroundings and enjoy their daily happy hour with 2-for-1 on selected drinks. For more information call 4429-8444.

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Entertainment Listings 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: R&B and Funky House. Ladies get one free drink between 9:00 p.m. till 12 midnight. Wednesdays: Arabic Night. Ladies get one free drink between 9:00 p.m. till 12 midnight. Thursdays: Diva’s Night Out. Gents QR 75, ladies get three free drinks between 9:00 p.m. till 12 midnight. Fridays: Chillax Saturdays: Bollywood Meets Hollywood. Ladies get one free drink between 9:00 p.m. till 12 midnight. Sundays: Reggae ‘n Old School.

KEMPINSKI RESIDENCES & SUITES MIX & FUSE Happy Hour Daily: The Lounge. Socialize at The Lounge with the trendiest crowd in Doha while sipping your favourite cocktail and benefit from the 50% discount on selected drinks, cocktails and Tasting & Sharing menu items. From 5:00 p.m. till 7:00 p.m. For more information call 4405-3325, email restaurants.doha@kempinski.com,or visit www.kempinski.com/doha.

The Lounge Tuesdays With Kéyali

Tuesdays: The Lounge. Kéyali Mayaga captivates guests of The Lounge with a collection of her favourite songs, along some stellar surprise co-performers and piano accompaniment. Join her at The Lounge for nights of true musical indulgence by the amber-lit bar 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.

Airline Flight Crew Happy Hours

Sat-Fri: The Lounge & Aroma. All airline flight crew can enjoy a complimentary 20% discount on the final bill of their dinner 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.

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA Big Night Out

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

Hospitality Night

Sundays: Lava. Rock out to the sounds of DJ Yaser Zain and enjoy a 50% discount on food and beverage for hotel staff. For more information call 4484-4444.

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA THE CITY Karaoke At Hive

THE FOUR SEASONS Vino & Cheese Trio

ORYX ROTANA Hospitality Night

THE GRAND HYATT Instagram Currency Promotion

Diva Tuesdays

THE RITZ-CARLTON Salsa

Tuesdays: Hive. Enjoy a unique experience at Hive every Tuesday where all selected beverages are QR 25 and where the best karaoke singer can enjoy free beverages from 8:00 p.m. till midnight. For more information call 4015-8888 or email doharestaurants@ihg.com.

Mondays: The Jazz Club. Every Monday is a great date for our fellow hoteliers, crew members, and all hospitality staff to come and enjoy the best notes of jazz being played by their new in-house band Mane and Cocktails and benefit from a 25% discount on the total food and beverage bill. Be sure to check in early for a great night! Hoteliers can invite up to three guests. For more information call 4402-3333.

Tuesdays: The Jazz Club. Every Tuesday ladies can enjoy one complimentary drink from 6:00 p.m. till 9:00 p.m. and after that enjoy a 50% discount on selected cocktails. It’s ladies night at the Jazz Club with buy-one-get-one free on cocktails, selected vino and bubbly and a 25% discount on any giant cocktails. Enjoy the night with the best of funk, soul, groove and lounge music with their resident DJ. For more information call 4402-3333.

RENAISSANCE DOHA CITY CENTER Ladies Night Saturdays: Glo Bar. Every Saturday experience the most unique ladies night in the city only at Glo Bar! Don’t miss DJ Makis spinning the finest beats on the dance-floor. From 5:00 p.m. onwards, free entry for ladies. For more information call 4419-6100 or visit www.westenddoha.com.

Let’s Get Quizzical

April 14: Champions Sports Bar & Restaurant. Get your seats early for the best quiz night in Doha with a maximum of 6 people per team and a first prize win of QR 3,000. From 7:30 p.m. till 9:30 p.m., free entry. For more information call 4419-6100 or visit www.westenddoha.com.

THE DIPLOMATIC CLUB BBQ Donut

Daily: Looking to set sail on the Arabian Gulf, searching for an exclusive dining place or a fun experience? With room for up to eight people the BBQ Donut will take you along the West Bay shores to enjoy unparalleled views of the city while savouring an exquisite dining experience. QR 180 including chilled juices, mineral water and soft drinks. Rental fees: 1 hour for QR 450, 2 hours for QR 800 and an additional 30 mins for QR 200. For more information call 4484-7450 or email spa.recreation@dclub.com.qa.

Daily: Library Bar & Cigar Lounge. You can have the chance to taste six different kinds of cheeses from all over Europe paired with the finest selection of beverages from their experts for QR 195 each. From 12:00 noon till 2:00 a.m. For more information call 4494-8981.

All-month: Dunes. Dunes will accept your social media posts as payments this April. Post something at Grand Hyatt Doha to your Instagram account and visit Dunes lounge for a complimentary drink. Just simply use the hash-tag #Instagram4Currency, geo location Grand Hyatt Doha and then show the post to your server and that you’re also following them on Instagram. For more information call 7021-8094.

Sundays: Admiral’s Club. Come and dance to the beats of Latino live band, Salsa and Kizomba at Admiral’s lower floor. For more information call 4484-8663 or email dilip.kumar@ritzcarlton.com.

Retail Night

Tuesdays: Habanos. Enjoy a 30% value on your bottle of vino or spirits. For more information call 4484-8504 or email rc.dohrz.leads@ritzcarlton.com.

THE ST. REGIS DOHA Ladies Night

Wednesdays: JALC Doha. Ladies, gather your girlfriends together for a night of cool jazz on a Wednesday evening and receive a complimentary signature cocktail. Buy one cocktail get one complimentary on selected mixed beverages. From 7:00 p.m. till 10:00 p.m. For more information call 4446-0106 or email diningreservations@stregis.com.

High Heels Night

Wednesdays: Vintage Lounge. Step into the glamourous and elegant Vintage Lounge for a great night out. Ladies enjoy a complimentary second drink between 6:00 p.m. and 9:00 p.m. and 50% off selected beverages between 9:00 p.m. and 1:00 a.m. For more information call 4446-0106 or email diningreservations@stregis.com.

SHARQ VILLAGE & SPA Happy Hours

Daily: The Sea Lounge, Al Seef & The Cigar Lounge. You can save 50% on your favourite brands and house beverages every day at some of their most popular meeting places: Al Seef from 2:00 p.m. till 8:00 p.m., The Sea Lounge from 5:00 p.m. till 8:00 p.m. and The Cigar Lounge from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. For more information call 4425-6666.

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WEEKENDS CROWNE PLAZA DOHA – THE BUSINESS PARK Liquidity Nights

Thurs, Fri & Sat: Liquidity. All ladies are entitled to free special cocktails from 8:00 p.m. till 12:00 midnight with live entertainment. Free for ladies, QR 100 for gents. For more information call 4408-7777.

KEMPINSKI RESIDENCES & SUITES Thursdays 9 To 1

Thursdays: The Lounge. Relax at the legendary Thursdays 9 to 1 at The Lounge with resident DJ Mike Hobson squeezing the most out of the decks. Urban contemporary sounds, cocktails of the future, love, fun and class are the ingredients of the most chic Thursday night in Doha. 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.

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA THE CITY Cosmopolitan Thursdays

Thursdays: The Square. From 6:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m., QR 300 including selected house beverages and QR 230 including soft drinks and mocktails. For more information call 4015-8888, or email doharestaurants@ihg.com.

Bucket Day

Fridays: Hive. Quench your thirst with a bucket of six brews for the price of four for QR 125, while listening to funky tunes from the ‘70s from 5:00 p.m. till 12 midnight. For more information call 4015-8888, or email doharestaurants@ihg.com.

ORYX ROTANA Boy’s Night In Town

Saturdays: The Jazz Club. It’s finally Boy’s Night Out. Every Saturday gents enjoy a 25% discount on spirit bottles when buying cigars. For more information call 4402-3333.

SHARQ VILLAGE & SPA Barbecue By The Pool

Thurs & Fri: Al Seef. It’s that time of the year again! The heat’s off and the coals are sizzling. Take a seat by the pool and enjoy the finest al fresco dining at Al Seef for QR 215, from 6:30 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4425-6666.

THE ST. REGIS DOHA Reggae Is Back

Thurs, Fri & Sat: Oyster Bay. Get into the rhythm of the Caribbean every Thursday, Friday and Saturday. Kick off your shoes, chill out on the beach and enjoy live reggae music by Buggy Nakhente and the Fully Loaded band with singer Rhesa Garnes. Complimentary entry, tables with bottle service have a QR 200 minimum spend, non-bottle service tables also available – bookings recommended. From 8:30 p.m. till 12 midnight on the beach. For reservations call 4446-0106, or email diningreservations@stregis.com. ID scanning required and guests must be over the age of 21.

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Entertainment Directory

Nightclubs, Bars & Lounges 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

Belgian Café InterContinental Doha

4484-4444

Krossroads Horizon Manor Hotel

Bubbles on Two Radisson Blu 4428-1428 Champions West End Renaissance Doha Cigar Lounge Sharq Village & Spa

4419-6100

4425-6666

Club 7 La Cigale

4428-8888

Crystal Lounge W Doha

4453-5135

D’Illusion Gokulam Park Dunes Lounge The Grand Hyatt

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

4445-5444 Shehrazad Radisson Blu 4428-1428 4484-4444 Sky View La Cigale

4428-8888

4446-2222 Spike’s Lounge Doha Golf Club

4429-8888

4446-0000

4496-0777

4448-4800 Splash Oryx Rotana 4402-3333

Liquidity Crowne Plaza Doha The Business Park

4408-7777

Strata Lounge InterContinental Doha The City 4015-8888

Madison Piano Bar La Cigale

4428-8888

The Irish Harp Sheraton Doha

4485-4444

The Library Radisson Blu

4428-1428

4470-8888 Manhattan Radisson Blu 4428-1428 4448-1234

Fahrenheit Horizon Manor Hotel

4445-5444

Misturado Crowne Plaza Doha The Business Park

Glo Cocktail Bar West End Renaissance Doha

4419-6100

Orion Radisson Blu

4428-1428

The Lounge Kempinski Residences & Suites 4405-3325

Habanos Ritz-Carlton Doha

4484-8000

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

Hive InterContinental Doha The City

4408-7777

The Library Bar & Cigar Lounge Four Seasons 4494-8888

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Arts & Culture

s k c i P p o T ’s This Month

Qatar National Library

Arab & Islamic Heritage Collection

VCUQatar Strange Wonders Faculty Exhibition

April 2-May 6: Msheireb Enrichment Centre, Sheraton Park, Corniche. Opening reception is at 6:00 p.m. on April 2 and is free and open to the public. VCUQatar’sannual faculty exhibition showcases new work by current faculty and staff. This year sees the first annual collaboration with Msheireb Museums.For more information visit www.qatar.vcu.edu or www.mec.msheireb.com.

Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra

Katara The First Turkish Festival April 9-12: Building 3, Katara Esplanade. Promoting Turkish culture, history and modern aspects based on the bonds between Qatar and Turkey, festival-goers can enjoy four days of Turkish sights, sounds, tastes and traditions. Open to everyone, the festival runs from 10:00 a.m. till 10:00 p.m. each day. For more information visit www.katara.net.

OUT om K C E H .c C ppening

atarha tion! www.qthe latest informa for

QH April 2014- FINAL.indd 33

April 17: The Qatar National Library (QNL) is offering members of the public a special chance to tour its stunning Arab & Islamic Heritage Collection with its annual open day. Following the success of last year’s open day which saw hundreds of Qatar residents marvel at the historic artifacts, the event is timed to mark the International Day for Monuments and Sites which was approved by the 22nd UNESCO General Conference in 1983.The open day takes place From 1:00 p.m. till 5:00 p.m. at the Qatar National Library’s Arab & Islamic Heritage Collection Building at 71 Al-Maha Street in Al-Luqta. For more information visit www.qnl.qa.

Museum of Islamic Ar t MIA Park Bazaar April 5: The first Saturday of every month, MIA Park hosts its monthly community bazaar with a vibrant mix of around 150 stalls. Running from 12 noon till 7:00 p.m., the bazaar is a modern version of the old souq tradition, featuring products such as jewelry, books, clothing, arts and crafts, as well as food.For more information visit www.mia.org.qa.

Family Concerts: Thunder And Lightning

April 6: Opera House, Building 16, Katara Cultural Village. A concert for all ages, the legendary Bob Ross conducts Edvard Grieg’s Op. 23: In the Hall of the Mountain King and Morning Mood from Peer Gynt, Johannes Brahms’ Hungarian Dance No. 1 & No. 5: in G Minor, Mozart’s Concerto in A Major for Clarinet and many more. Tickets available at all Virgin Megastores, at the Katara Opera House box office and online at tickets.virginmegastore.me. For more information visit www.qatarphilharmonicorchestra.org.

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Arts & Culture Spectators gather at last year's Create & Inspire workshop at MIA Park

Art Without

Borders

By Ashlee Starratt Images courtesy of Alexandre Orion & Crossway Foundation

The Create & Inspire competition has kicked off as part of the Qatar Brazil 2014 Year of Culture. Bringing together young artists to explore and nurture their artistic drive, twelve lucky winners will travel to Brazil to experience its colourful culture.

ith a vibrant launch last month at the Museum of Islamic Art, the Create & Inspire competition is now open for submissions from any and all aspiring young artists. Run by the Crossway Foundation in partnership with Art Jameel and the Qatar Museums Authority, the theme of this year’s competition ‘The World is not Black and White’, is inspired by the Qatar Brazil 2014 Year of Culture. To highlight the ebb and flow of Brazil’s colourful pulse, renowned Brazilian graffiti artist Alexandre Orion led a graffiti workshop at the MIA Park back in March that was as intellectual as it was vivid.

carnaval, tropical rainforests, beaches, favelas, capoeira and bossa nova. But more importantly, it’s known as one of the most colourful places on earth. This year’s theme is about colour as a metaphor for a creative way of life.

“A black and white world is one with limited variety,” says Crossway Foundation Project Manager Valeria Mariani. “Colour represents diversity, multiple opinions and openness. Experiencing different parts of the world firsthand helps us to better understand ourselves and others. Brazil conjures up images of

Young artists will be judged on a range of criteria says Mariani. “Creativity and originality, how inspiring their work is to other young people, what is the level of artistic and technical skill displayed in their work, how effectively they interpreted the theme of ‘The World is not Black and White’ and also their presentation

Applicants can submit their artistic works online with the competition ending June 12, 2014, and the winners announced mid-August. The nature of each submission must fall in line with ‘The World is not Black and White’ theme. Judging will take place via interview with industry experts in London, Dubai, Doha, Riyadh and Jeddah for the 40 shortlisted applicants.

Brazilian artist Alexandre Orion's graffiti murals come to life

skills – how effective was their creative project and their personal statement in demonstrating passion and belief in their ideas?” Much is at stake for the twelve lucky finalists – the chance to learn about and experience all levels of Brazilian culture. “The winners will travel to Brazil where they’ll work with professional artists, photographers, curators, filmmakers and musicians to develop the key skills of leadership, communication and creativity,” Mariani explains. “[They’ll visit] Rio de Janeiro, São Paulo, Inhotim and Salvador to explore Brazil’s awe-inspiring landscapes, experience its vibrant arts scene and to collaborate with local artists and organizations.” n For more information on Create & Inspire or to enter the competition visit www.create-inspire.org.

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Arts & Culture Cheo Jeffery Allen Solder (far right), his wife Anna (second from right) and their colleagues in the Desert Bridges ensemble seek to change the world through the power of music

e l p o e P e n O e r A e W By Charlie Sands Images courtesy of Desert Bridges Additional photography by Nadir Khamis

With a lot of love, a passion for music and a vision for breaking down the social, political and religious boundaries which separate us, Cheo Jeffery Allen Solder and his collective Desert Bridges have set out on a journey to bring people together through their improvisational and cross-cultural music. “Desert Bridges is an ongoing musical experiment. It's a project more than a band,” says the 61-year-old musician and founder, who says he plays “anything with a reed” and a few other instruments besides. The inspiration behind this project came when Cheo and his wife Anna visited the Characters of Egypt Festival in Fustat Wadi El Gemal and were inspired by the mix of styles and genres they heard and the coming together of many different nationalities. Desert Bridges has three purposes, explains Cheo: “The first is to look at new ways of playing.” As an improvisational jazz musician, he believes that jazz musicians have “stopped innovating and started imitating” what was done before.

He adds: “The whole purpose of the music is to be in the moment and I see this whole generation who have forgotten that. So I got out of that whole genre and I was looking for another way of playing... and this is where this idea of a kind of cross-cultural musical collaboration came from.” "The second purpose,” says Cheo, “is that my wife and I have a shared belief – in that we are one people travelling through space and time under one sun and all these nationalities and differences are just illusions, so rather than me standing on a street corner and shouting it, we put together a project that expresses that philosophy.” It took Cheo a while to find musicians that were sensitive to the idea of Desert Bridges,

but when he was moved to tears on hearing group-member Shadi play his oud, he knew he was on the right track. “Later,” says Cheo, “I met Santosh and we played together and he said: ‘You know something? I've been looking for something like this all my life.’” As well as the core group which makes up Desert Bridges: Cheo, his wife Anna (voice, percussion), Shadi from Syria (oud, rebaba), Santosh from India (tabla, percussion), Katrin from Germany (cello) and Amal from Qatar (voice), Cheo and Anna also seek out and play with musicians from anywhere and everywhere.

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beautiful.” The third purpose of the group is to raise money to help young people do cross-cultural musical training, so far this has included supporting several young musicians including a young Moroccan guitarist who's musical education in France is now being paid for by Desert Bridges. The group raises money through playing concerts, CD and DVD sales, and also through working with artists, one of whom – Sabah Arbilli created a stunning painting during the Desert Bridges performance at the Qatar National Theatre in April of 2013 which will be auctioned at a later event. “So the higher purpose of what we do,” explains Cheo, “is not just about music, it's about love, and that if we come together with love in our hearts, what a world it would be? ”

For one of their earlier concerts in Qatar the group was made up of twelve musicians: three from Syria, an Indian, an Egyptian, a Qatari, three Swiss and two other Americans, from which they released a CD.

“My wife and I have a shared belief – in that we are one people travelling through space and time under one sun and all these nationalities and differences are just illusions.” He says: “It was at the time of some political tensions between the USA and Syria and we locked ourselves in a room and treated ourselves with respect and made something that was quite

About Cheo The Desert Bridges collective perform live on-stage at the Qatar National Theatre

Cheo Jeffery Allen Solder came to Qatar with his wife Anna after she got a post as a professor of architecture Visual artist Sabah Arbilli at Qatar University three creates a painting set live to the backdrop of music years ago. Originally from Los Angeles, California he studied film, television and music at Loyola Marymount University and has since worked as a screen-writer, playwright, worked in film and television production, festival producer, producer of art exhibits and performance artist appearing all over the world at different times. Visit www.desertbridges.org for more information about the band and their future performances. n

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Arts & Culture MAias Alyamani pioneers a new blend of modern and classical Arab music with a message

r a t a Q f O r e l d d i F e h T By Sarah Al Motairi Images courtesy of MAias Alyamani Additional photography by Nadir Khamis

QH had the honour of sitting down with Damascus-born solo violinist, MAias Alyamani, to delve into the life of a musical genius and discuss the inspirations of his new album, Off Stage.

fter my delightful interview with solo-violinist, MAias Alyamani, I was eager to listen to his new album, Off Stage. Waiting until I got home would have been too much to ask after such a pleasant chat with the established musician. As soon as I sat in my car, I popped in MAias’ CD, Off Stage. Instantly, my senses were awakened by the Eastern sounds my speakers were pumping into the car. It was easy for me to detect his personality in the music; it was precise, passionate, melodic, professional and alive. MAias is a musician full of life. His love for music infused with his love for life in its simplest form is apparent throughout his album. MAias Alyamani was born in Damascus and comes from a family with a rich musical history. His parents are musicians, as are his uncles.

His grandmother was a singer. A passionate career in music would only seem natural given his family background. “With time, I started to be more connected to music,” says MAias. He continues, “I studied at the Music Conservatory in Damascus later continuing my studies in a number of places in Italy and Germany. In 2004, I moved to Vienna where I completed a Masters degree in violin performance and composition at Vienna University.” In 2006, MAias Alyamani established MAqam, an ensemble of talented musicians that specialize in performing modern classical Arabic music in an innovative and fresh light. MAias settled in Doha in 2008. When asked about his musical influences I was taken aback by his answer. In a practical tone he explained to me that it would be easy to list his inspirations; Marcel Khalife, Omar Khairat,

Sabah Fakhri, Fairuz, and other prominent names such as Umm Kulthum but he goes on to say, “in order to make good music you have to stretch beyond great musicians and composers alone. Athletes and scientists influence me. I am inspired by astronomy…I love to read, you must read a lot. The resources are endless.” MAias continued to remind me of the achievements of many Arabs from our past. Arab minds who have contributed to the development and betterment of our world. “We have become passive and we must remember our rich history and continue to contribute as Arab thinkers to our world.” MAias

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adds that his influences are also deeply-rooted in Western sounds from classical music to Jazz. It’s no secret that the East and the West often have their political tensions that in turn lead to cultural scrutiny and misunderstandings on both sides of the ocean. MAias believes that music can help bridge those very tensions. “It’s all about dialogue. Speaking with one another. It’s the responsibility of Arabs to help others learn about their culture and history. It’s crucial that we interact on a human level.” His music is his tool. “I had a lot to say as an Arab. My music had a lot to say. I can easily create music fine-tuned for a European ear but I enjoy manipulating that very element by introducing new ideas, fresh ideas and interpretations of classical Arabic music. For me, it’s very important that I use my talents to help people understand Arab culture. Our culture is much more than belly-dancing and good food. We have a rich history. I became aware of our cultural richness and talents as I started touring Europe and now I strive to leave a print.” MAias said something to me that stuck with me on a very endearing level. He nobly stated that borders are old-fashioned. We are turning a leaf in our world where people of all backgrounds interact on a human level. He used Qatar as an example stating “in Qatar we are surrounded by diversity, different nationalities and different people. This is the world we live in. My son’s best friend is Chinese.” MAias has made it a part of his life mission to ensure that Arab modern classical music is recognized worldwide. His efforts have paid off as he has been received with welcoming ears and much-deserved recognition in Europe. MAias is proud of the many European audiences he has had the honour of playing for who, in turn, have been exposed to the beauty of Arab music and Arab culture, stating “as I have gained from my culture, I feel obliged to give back to that very culture. And I enjoy doing so.” As music is dear to MAias’ heart, so is his homeland of Syria. Political tensions in Syria have left many victims forced into conflict, yet

MAias calls Qatar home and performs regularly with the Doha String Quartet

MAias has been able to gracefully remember Syria without exploiting the situation. MAias passionately states, “To me, the soul of one person is more important than all of the world’s music. I avoided writing music in connection to the current political situation in Syria. The Syrian people are with me, always. It is easy for me to compose music and use that music to show images of [the Syrian situation], but that would be cheap.” His vision is to stand as a musician who represents the many facets of the Syrian people. “If an American were to hear my CD, he will be exposed to a side of Syrian and Arab culture other than war and struggle.” For MAias, that is the success; unity and dialogue through this musical journey. MAias is especially proud of his new album, Off Stage. He humbly explains the fresh sound of the album. It’s the first of its kind in its genre and is proudly composed fully in Qatar. “Off Stage is just another step in exploring how far we can go with our musical journey. The album was created by a modest group of 20 individuals, all with different ideas and opinions. This diverse input from every member on the album promises a unique sound. The album was created in an environment of joy with a fresh concept.” This album was particularly special to MAias as it was a daring jump into the Gulf region with

On-stage, the passion in MAias' compositions resonates with audiences

a brand new sound. It’s currently on the best-selling list at Virgin Megastore in Doha and is currently being received well in Dubai. Since moving to Doha in 2008, MAias has also thoroughly enjoyed working in collaboration with the Doha String Quartet. “The members of the Quartet are my friends, not just colleagues. When we are together we don’t feel like we’re working but rather a group of friends drinking coffee, making music and having fun. We’re a family.” He added that Qatar is a lovely place to live for a number of reasons. MAias is happy to live with his family in Doha as it provides a safe family environment with nice weather for most of the year. “I care to allow my son to experience the diversity of Qatar, the diversity in the people around us. There is also a strong arts and culture environment. Qatar loves its history and culture. The good thing about the Qatari leadership is that they care about their country and they love their people. There is a safe feeling in that and I am honoured to be a piece of the puzzle.” n

For more information on MAias Alyamani visit www.maqamensemble.com or www.maiasalyamani.com. Off Stage can be purchased at Virgin Megastores in Villaggio and Landmark Malls.

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Arts & Culture Listings RECOMMENDS

Museum Guide

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

KATARA Al Dabke Festival

April 3-5: Building 15 Hall, Katara Amphitheater & Katara Esplanade. The Al Dabke Festival highlights the historical and cultural richness of Arabic folkloric across many countries. The aim is to showcase dabke and its diversity through workshops, exhibitions and three shows in the amphitheater. The idea is to make history by breaking the current world record for the largest dabke gathering through the Guinness Book of World Records. The event will be showcased to a minimum of 20,000 people in total. Runs from 10:00 a.m. till 10:00 p.m. For more information visit www.katara.net.

ONE OF A KIND

EVERY WEEK

QATAR PHILHARMONIC ORCHESTRA Tchaikovsky’s Pathétique Symphony

MATHAF Etel Adnan in All Her Dimensions

April 19: Building 16, Katara Opera House. Han-Na Chang, music director; Lilya Zilberstein, piano. Performing Jamal Abou El-Hosn’s Overture, Sergei Rachmaninoff’s Piano Concerto No. 2 in C Minor, Op. 18 and Peter Ilyich Tchaikovsky’s Pathétique Symphony No. 6 in B Minor, Op. 74. Tickets available at Virgin Megastores or online at tickets. virginmegastore.me or at the Katara Opera House box office. For more information visit www.qatarphilharmonicorchestra.org.

Ongoing: Mathaf: Arab Museum of Modern Art presents an exhibition of the work of LebaneseAmerican visual artist, poet, playwright and essayist Etel Adnan in All Her Dimensions, curated by Hans Ulrich Obrist. Similar to nature consisting of many dimensions, the artistic and literary oeuvre of Etel Adnan contains many different aspects. Through the exploration of this artist’s multidimensionality, the exhibition will highlight the diversity in her work. Providing an extensive overview, the display at Mathaf will include Adnan’s paintings, drawings, leporellos, tapestries, writings and films from the 1960s onwards. For more information visit www.mathaf.org.

Shuttle Service

See us online! m www.qatarhappening.co

Ongoing: Have you hopped on the Mathaf Bus yet? Sponsored by Occidental Petroleum of Qatar (Oxy Qatar), the Mathaf bus connects cultures on the hour and operates between the Museum of Islamic Art and Mathaf: Arab Museum of Modern Art. The free shuttle service operates from Wednesday to Sunday from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and on Friday from 3:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. It takes about 25 to 35 minutes to reach either museum. For more information visit www.mathaf.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

s k c i P p o T ’s This Month

Sharq Village & Spa Jacob Melaard: Wellness Life Coach

VCUQatar 15th Annual Fashion Show April 15-17: Salam, The Gate Mall. 6:30 p.m. till 7:30 p.m. Entitled ‘Center Front’, this year’s runway exhibition showcases the work of VCUQatar fashion design sophomores, juniors and seniors, as they make the transition from students to successful designers. The show will present a line-up of distinct and individual creative looks that students have researched, experimented with, and now present for the audience. Tickets will be available for purchase online from March 17 for QR 50. All proceeds in support of the VCUQatar service trip to Indonesia with Reach Out To Asia. For more information visit www.qatar.vcu.edu or www.reachouttoasia.org.

All month: Six Senses Spa. Are you suffering from a phobia? Are you stuck in life? Is your relation with food detrimental to your body and health? Do you have memories from the past that are still bothering you today? These are all symptoms of an underlying cause. Jacob Melaard is a Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP) and Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT) master practitioner and master hypnotist. He works with you at the root cause of a problem by combining techniques from hypnotherapy, meridian tapping, and neuro-linguistic programming so you’ll experience quick and lasting results. For more information call 4425-6999 or email reservations-sharq-spa@sixsenses.com.

The RAW Health Coach

Raw Start Classes

Ongoing: An introductory course that’s perfect for those who are new to the idea of raw food ‘un-cooking’, or are ready for a refreshing new approach to how raw food can transform their health, energy and weight. Try raw food samples and learn the basics in this delicious, informative and inspirational class. Individual and group classes available, each session is an hour and a half and can accommodate up to six people. For more information visit www.therawhealthcoach.com.

OUT om .c CHECaK ppening

atarh tion! www.qthe latest informa for

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Qatar Animal Welfare Society Become A Volunteer Ongoing: Whether you’re a pet-owner or simply a lover of animals – especially those in need, the Qatar Animal Welfare Society (QAWS) is always looking for volunteers to help out. With up to 100 animals in their care, every hour of donated volunteer time counts. Whether it’s dogwalking, animal socialization, kennel cleaning or administrative work, QAWS could use the extra hand. For more information on becoming a volunteer call 5539-6074 or visit www.qaws.org.

Doha Garden Club The Green Box Ongoing: Gardening gurus and green-thumbs rejoice! The Doha Garden Club is now offering members a 10% discount on Green Box home deliveries valid until September 30, 2014. Filled with locally-sourced fruits, vegetables and poultry, the Green Box comes to your home twice a week so that you and your family can enjoy the health benefits of fresh produce. The Garden Club is also planning their next field trip for members on April 20. For more information visit www.dohagardenclub.com to become a member or visit www.thegreenbox.me.

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Community The Barzan Towers historic site

Undiscovered Qatar By Chantelle D’Mello

Though Qatar may be small in size, it’s rich in a cultural history that dates back centuries. Join us as we wander off the beaten path to explore the historic castles and forts that each tell a story of this country we call home.

he sun beat down on the road, forming mirages. The rays scorched the hood of the car, turning it iridescent. Against the backdrop of the weekend and old 90s music, it was almost like a scene from a coming-of-age movie. But it promised to be more than just a routine road-trip. It promised to be a study in tactility, on the power that touch had to transfer memories. History is alive there. Breathing, living, and transforming – moving through wind and sky. Qatar’s rich and diverse history is embodied not only by its traditions, clothes, and music, but most importantly, its architecture. The impressive city of glass and concrete is in sharp contrast to the simple, tacit beauty of the numerous forts that scatter the deserts around the bustling city of Doha.

Al Wakra Castle

Barzan Towers

Al-Thaqab Castle

The Barzan Towers were the first of Qatar’s undiscovered architectural jewels on our list. Located 20 km to the north of Doha, this fortress towers dates back to 1910, when they were built by Sheikh Mohammed bin Jassim Al Thani to serve as watchtowers. The one-metre thick walls were reinforced with buttresses, lending strength to the 16-metre tall structure. Built also as a residential complex, the towers feature a majlis, a mosque, and a madrassa (school). The architectural style is similar to other Qatari structures, with small windows for ventilation, thick walls to keep the interiors cool and traditional marazims, or wooden channels jutting out from the roof to drain rainwater.

Dating back to between the 17th and 19th centuries, this historic fort was built, supposedly, to protect a water source nearby. Rising up from the taupe sand, the fort’s massive walls and towers were a welcoming site after the endless car ride through the undulating desert. The Restoration Department of the Qatar Museums Authority restored the rectangular fort with its four towers in 2003. Located 110 km away from Doha, in the northwestern region of the country, Al-Thaqab Castle is a tactile explosion. Walls full of ridges, pock-marked by years of erosion, followed by smooth interiors of the fort’s rooms. Wooden beams penetrate the ceilings, while outside, smooth stone semi-circles adorn the tops of the towers.

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Irkayyat Castle Our next stop, Irkayyat Castle, is located a mere 2 km away from Al-Thaqab and 8 km from the iconic Al-Zubarah Fort. This 17th century fort was restored in 1988. Its four corner towers – three rectangular and one circular – and massive walls are built out of old stones and mud. Several coins dating to the First Abbasid State were found buried within the walls of the castle.

Al Wakra Castle

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Al Zubarah Fort strikes an imposing presence

The Al Wakra Castle was third on our list of Qatar’s hidden gems. Located in Al-Wakra, this 20th century structure was built on the ruins of an older castle. Not bare or rustic like the others, this architectural landmark had a much more quotidian purpose –a post office. What it lacked in years, it made up in beauty. Its columns traversed the perimeter, elegant and timetested, reflecting the clear blues of the mid-day sky. The castle’s promenades are reminiscent of those in Souq Waqif, with arched pathways that facilitate ventilation.

Al Wajba Fort Shortly after mid-day, we reached the site of the famed battle wherein the Qatari people, under Sheikh Jassim bin Mohammed Al-Thani won over the Ottoman army in 1893 A.D. Regarded as one of the oldest forts in the country, it was built in 1882 by the Al-Rayyan municipality, and stands as one of Qatar’s most important architectural landmarks. Against the picturesque red sky, the fort’s high towers stood firm against the evening wind, thick walls safeguarding its secrets within. In those forts, surrounded by the forces of nature, devoid of the technology that has become so integral to our lives, one cannot help but relive an ancient time. A time when people expressed themselves through words pushed through post offices, channels of thought that would take weeks, even months, to reach the intended. A time when children studied diligently at madrassas while soldiers stationed themselves at the watchtowers overhead, looking for signs of danger looming in the distance. A time when walls were made of overlapping pieces of coralrock with limestone mud mortar and coatings of gypsum plaster.

An aerial view of the wider site at Al Zubarah, which was built near the archaeological remains of an even older township

The beauty of history is that it changes you. As the sun leered over the horizon, it wasn’t our lives that we thought of, but of those alive centuries ago, their memories imbued within these foreign walls. Bustling Doha was far away and all that mattered now was the fast falling sun, the enveloping darkness, and the expansive desert ahead. n

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Community Children from Syria enjoy a day at The Ritz

Dishing up iftar boxes for taxi drivers

Community Footprints Manager Nancy Lau. In Circle: Lending some love and support for critters

A Helping Hand By Ashlee Starratt Images courtesy of The Ritz-Carlton Doha Additional photography by Srimani Welagedara

The Community Footprints program is an initiative at The Ritz-Carlton Doha that’s changing lives for the better here in Qatar. We speak with Nancy Lau, the remarkable woman behind it all, to learn how a little help goes a long way

ancy Lau’s life’s work is to help others in need, though she’s always seen it as a hand up – not a hand-out. Today her bubbly, joyful presence brims over with excitement as she speaks about the important work of the Community Footprints program. Established as a Ritz-Carlton initiative, under Nancy’s guidance and penchant for dreaming big, Footprints has grown wings over the past two years, passing on a message of empowerment and hope that stretches far into the community.

charitable activities in the past year alone. They are the official hotel partner for the Qatar Red Crescent, hosting 60 refugee families from Syria so that they could enjoy the hotel’s facilities. They’ve also participated in Think Pink and National Center for Cancer Care initiatives, spear-headed a volunteer beach clean-up in honour of World Environment Day and are staunch supporters of fundraising efforts for the Qatar Animal Welfare Society (QAWS) and 2nd Chance Rescue.

“It’s our social responsibility not just to be a business entity but also to give back to our community,” says Ritz-Carlton Doha General Manager Hoss Vetry. “How can we improve our society, our environment – we are part of the growth of this city. This is where we find responsibility and want to contribute our fair share, if not more.”

“What we really like about working with these organizations is that, when they fully trust you [and] see that they can lean on you, you feel inspired that ‘Hey! I can actually do more!’”, says Nancy Lau. “And to see not just the kids, but seeing a person smile back at you and say “Thank you”, that’s more than enough to tell you that you’re going in the right direction.”

With a staggering total of 423 Ritz-Carlton employees from all sectors of the company participating in the Community Footprints program, the hotel was able to carry out 45

One of the Community Footprints’ latest endeavours is the Succeed Through Service program. “We’re focusing a lot on developing the future generation,” explains Nancy. “So

Celebrating teamwork at the World Environment Day beach clean-up

that’s why this year we’re pushing a lot of schools for this program and hopefully [it] will be an inspiration for them when they start thinking about college and what they want to do with life.” The hotel oversees skill-building training for youth, having them assist with greeting guests, concierge duties, job-shadowing house-keeping and even planning their own community service activity. But for Nancy the success of the Footprints program ultimately comes from a belief that affecting positive change, means paying it forward – and people are sitting up and taking notice. “They get inspired and they follow,” she says. “Seeing people do something good and it becoming contagious is the best way of saying 'thank you.'” n

If you’re interested in learning more about the work of the Community Footprints program and potential volunteer opportunities visit www.ritzcarlton.com/doha.

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ubity Listings mm Clun Cods Ki RECOMMENDS

Community Guide 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

DOHA MUMS The Biggest Loser Round 6

April 1: Did you get a little too jolly over the holidays or simply need some motivation to lose the last of that baby weight? Join the Doha Mums Biggest Loser Round 6. This is a great way to lose weight and maybe even make a few bucks in the process! The money awarded will be the total amount collected from the competitors. There will be first, second, and third place prizes depending on how many participants join, and the group will meet every week to track their progress. For more information visit www.dohamums.com.

Egyptian Women’s Association 5572-4171

French-Speaking Ladies Group 5559-7467

ONE OF A KIND VCUQATAR The Art of Hat-Making

All month: This course introduces students to the classic craft of hat-making, known as millinery. Students will get an overview of the design process and work on creating two finished hats. The course will cover various different materials and techniques used in the creation of hats as well as emphasize professional quality finishing. This is a studiobased course. Prior knowledge of fashion and sewing is beneficial but not a prerequisite. Classes are held on Mondays from 5:15 p.m. till 7:15 p.m. and the fee is QR 745. For more information visit www.qatar.vcu.edu.

EVERY WEEK FANAR Spoken Arabic Lessons

Sun & Tues: Fanar Cultural Center. The spoken course is a personalized to the level of each student and will focus on communicative functions required in the day-to-day language. These include greetings and getting to know people, asking and answering essential questions, numbers and other topics that help for a better understanding of the society. In this course all the above-mentioned conversational topics are written by transliteration – Arabic words written in English letters. For more information call 4250-1732.

GREEK COOKING LESSONS Greek Food

Indian Women’s Association

Ongoing: Lessons are offered by an experienced cooking instructor in your home for groups of two or three ladies. Throughout the 3-hour long lessons, Mrs. Hara will teach you how to make famous Greek dishes to please your whole family. Printed recipe material is supplied. For more information call 6633-5289.

4442-4052

THE TALENTS CENTER Community Classes

Red Dotters Qatar

Weekdays: Arabic Speaking Lessons For Expats on Thursdays from 11:30 a.m. till 12:30 p.m., Lebanese Cuisine on Tuesdays from 11:00 a.m. till 12:30 p.m., Photography For Ladies on Mondays from 11:00 a.m. till 1:00 p.m., QR 120 per lesson or QR 500 per five consecutive lessons. Additional classes include Jewelry and Ornaments for Girl Teens on Tuesdays from 6:30 p.m. till 7:30 p.m., Photography for Girl Teens on Wednesdays and Saturdays from 6:30 p.m. till 7:30 p.m., QR 500 for 8 sessions. For more information e-mail kids@thetalentscenter.com.qa.

IAID Zumba

Sat-Thurs: Hilal St., Al-Tadamon Signal, D-Ring Road. Zumba is the latest dance fitness craze spreading fast worldwide. This upbeat workout is fantastic for kids and adults alike. Zumba is an exhilarating class filled with good feelings and party-like fun that’s perfect for your fitness goals. For more information call 4432-0974 or visit www.iaidonline.org.

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

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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Kids Club

s k c i P p o T â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s This Month

The Pearl-Qatar Kids Playroom

Entalek Eco-Adventure Trips Ongoing: Enjoy kayaking trips to the Al Thakira mangrove forest, stand-up paddle boarding lessons, coral reef snorkeling trips, overnight camping kayak expeditions and full-moon drumming. Perfect for older children and teens, Entalek offers school outdoor education packages and is one of the top-rated Doha-based eco-adventure companies in Qatar. For more information call Steve at 3023-3207 or email entalek.org@gmail.com.

Ongoing: The Kids Playroom at Sabban Towers (Towers 8, 9, 10) is now open on the The Pearl-Qatar. The playroom is a space where parents and kids alike can come to mix and mingle in a colourful environment packed with toys and activities. Gifted by Sabban Property Investments, the Kids Playroom is an attractive, family-friendly amenity for families living in Sabban Towers or looking to relocate to the property. For more information call 4491-3222 or email info@LSKeepmoving.

Music & More Qatar Music Classes For Youth Ongoing: Offering classes in harmony, melody choral, concerto, sonata styles, Music & More uses music as a tool for children to explore their creative abilities, extend their cognitive and social competence, as well as to develop their language and physical proficiency in a relaxed and enjoyable environment. For more information on class timings and how to sign up visit www.musicandmoreqatar.com.

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Gymnastics Academy Doha Classes For Children Ongoing: The academy caters toyoung gymnasts of different abilities, over the age of four. It follows the British Gymnastics floor and vault syllabus but also trains on bars, beam and trampolines. They have excellent equipment including air tracks, landing inflatables, two trampolines, beams, junior bars, tumble tracks, vault and a full floor. For more information on gym locations, schedules and fees visit www.gymacademydoha.com.

Tornadoes Tag Rugby Saturdays: Park House English School. Tornadoes is a fun, non-contact tag rugby club that caters for both boys and girls in Doha. Children develop and learn a range of skills such as speed and agility drills, improve their co-ordination and enjoy the sport of tag rugby! Sessions end with small-sided matches to give children the opportunity to put their skills into game situations.For more information on timings and registration visit www.tornadoestagrugby.com.

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Kids Club

Are You On Technology

Overload? By Jacqueline Bodnar

If you can’t get through this article without stopping to check your phone, you might be finding yourself overwhelmed by the devices in your life. Recognizing this overload and limiting the time spent on smart-phones, on social media and in front of the TV can be the first step towards reviving and appreciating communication as a family.

n a recent afternoon lunch outing, I was amazed by what I saw. Maybe it was because the place offered Wi-Fi. Maybe it was because it was a weekday, right around the busy lunch hour. Whatever the reason, as my family and I sat waiting for our sandwiches, I made some observations. The restaurant was busy and the people were engaged…but not with each other. Some were on their mobile phones and others on laptop computers; still more were listening to iPods or using other hand-held electronic gadgets. But the sad reality was that very little real communication was going on between people sitting at the same table. Albert Einstein once said that it has become appallingly obvious that our technology has exceeded our humanity. Little did he know that technology was going to continue to evolve and take on a life of its own. Today, we are bombarded with it to a point where sometimes it actually seems hard to escape. We get so caught up in all this ‘progress’ that we often don’t realize exactly how distracting this sea of technology has become to our personal relationships and family unit. New technology

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Are you spending more time plugged in online than tuned in at home where it counts?

brings with it a whole new set of problems, like those with face-to-face communication, internet addictions, and a sense of disconnection with those around us.

Can We Talk? “Communication is consistently one of the chief complaints that prompt people to seek therapy or couples counseling,” explains Mary Jane Walker, a licensed professional counselor. “Many people describe a lack of communication in their relationship as the primary cause of their unhappiness.” The root of this lack of communication often stems from the use of technology. People are so busy answering e-mails, surfing the internet, watching television, playing video games, and talking to other people on mobile phones, that they sometimes fail to talk to those around them. According to Walker, a common thread in many counseling sessions about communication has to do with internet addiction. “Often, the partner who communicates more with cyber-strangers online, than with their own partner in person, will deny any wrongdoing.” she says. “However, it’s not hard to see that behaviour of this nature is just a short step away from infidelity.”

Distractions Everywhere Technological advances are to supposed to make our lives easier. They are intended to speed

things up and give us more time to do other, more important things. Instead, it seems that the more ‘tech toys’ that come out, the busier we become. Constant work interruptions from checking e-mails every time one comes in, or answering our mobile phone as we drive or dine, are pervasive, time-consuming distractions. The internet isn’t the only culprit in this technological overkill, although it’s a big part of it. Instead of bonding with their family by playing a game with them at home, folks now play with someone they have never met, across the country, online. Then consider the lure of television and movies, which can be watched on many different types of devices today -- including in our cars. It further demonstrates just how little time we can go without that form of stimulation. “If couples want to avoid communicating with their partners, there is technological equipment to help them escape at virtually any moment of the day,” says Walker.

Taming Technology We can’t imagine living without the devices we have come to know and love. But if we don’t control them, they will most certainly control us. There’s no better time than now to take inventory of the devices you and your family use, and to put a plan into action, defining just how much time you’re willing to dedicate to them per day. For example, it’s a good idea to limit how long you’re willing to spend answering e-mails

per day, and to set aside a specific time of day that can be dedicated to doing it. The same goes for laying down ground rule for how much time children spend in front of the television or video console, or on their computer or smart-phone – and, does your child really need a smart-phone before they reach a certain age. Devices such as these should be a privilege that is earned, not a necessity that is demanded. “A limit should be set on how much time every day will be spent using technological gadgets,” adds Walker, “including computers, cell phones, television, etc. A timer should be used, if necessary. If internet addictions play havoc with a relationship, [families and] couples should seek the help of a professional counselor or search out a support group.” n E-MAIL ADDICTION BY THE NUMBERS • The average person checks their e-mail five times per day. • Of those using portable devices, 59 percent check their e-mail as each message arrives, and 43 percent sleep near the device to hear incoming messages. • On vacation, 40 percent of people consider e-mail accessibility when they plan their trip, and 83 percent check their e-mail once a day while on vacation. • For 43 percent of e-mail users, checking it is the first thing they do each morning.

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Kids Club

Kitchen

Creations Images courtesy of The St. Regis Doha

If there’s something fishy going on the kitchen blame it on this delicious recipe for salmon and zucchini cannelloni that will have your kids hooked, pardon the pun! We get down to business with JeemTV’s celebrity Chef Elias Gemayal from Opal by Gordon Ramsay in The St. Regis Doha as he shows us how to prepare the catch of the day. Ingredients: Salmon • 2 small pieces of salmon with skin on • Pinch of salt and pepper • Olive oil for cooking • 3 sprigs of fresh rosemary • 3 sprigs of fresh thyme • 4 bay leaves (dried) • Zest of 1 lemon (cut thinly) Zucchini Cannelloni • 2 large zucchinis • 1 cup of spinach (cooked) • 4 large basil leaves Fennel Salad • ½ fennel bulb • Pinch of salt • 1 tbsp of olive oil • Pinch of dry fennel seeds • Squeeze of lemon juice Yogurt Dressing • 3 tbsps yogurt (plain or low-fat) • Touch of cumin powder and fennel seeds • ½ tsp of lemon juice • Pinch of salt and pepper • ½ clove of garlic (finely-chopped or minced)

Instructions: Cook Salmon • Sprinkle salt and pepper over the salmon. • Heat a frying pan until it becomes hot, drizzle

Your kids will get their full daily dose of healthy Omega-3 fatty acids with this dish

with a sprinkle of olive oil, then add all the herbs and lemon zest around the sides of the pan. • Add the fish skin side down then cover it. Cook the fish for 3 minutes, making sure you get a crispy skin. Turn over the fish and cook it for another 3 minutes. • Put the fish aside until needed. Prepare Zucchini Cannelloni • Cook a large handful of fresh baby spinach with a little water in a small saucepan with the lid on to get a soft, fresh spinach. • Drain and leave the spinach until cool enough to handle then squeeze out the excess water. • Use a vegetable peeler to cut 4 long, thin pieces of zucchini then cook it in a grill pan on high heat for 30 seconds on each side. Lay the cooled, cooked zucchini together on a plate. They need to be side by side and overlapping so there is no gaps. • Place the cooked spinach on the top of the zucchini and place the 4 basil leaves on top of

the spinach. Carefully roll into a cylinder, trim the ends and cut into pieces. • Set the plate aside until needed. Make Fennel Salad • Cut the fennel bulb into thin slices then put into ice water to make it curl. Once it becomes curly remove it from the ice water and put it in a small bowl with olive oil, a pinch of fennel seeds and a squeeze of lemon juice. Prepare Yogurt Dressing • Mix all of the ingredients into a small bowl and set aside until needed. To Serve • Place the zucchini cannelloni rolls on a large plate, then place the cooked salmon next to it and add the crunchy fennel salad. • Place a dollop of the yogurt dressing on the salmon and enjoy! n

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Kids Club Souq Waqif is a hub at night, set to the illuminated backdrop of the Fanar Islamic Cultural Center

s y a D n u F y l i m Fa Words and selected images by Charlie Sands

Before all of the mega-malls make an appearance around Doha, we spent the morning and evening at some of the many Souqs dotted between the Corniche and Grand Hamad Street, discovering more than just a bargain or two. How To Get There For anyone who doesn't already know, most of the souqs are in the area between the Corniche and Grand Hamad Street, so if you’re standing with the Corniche behind you looking up towards Grand Hamad (also known as Bank Street) you will find Souq Waqif straight ahead and on your right-hand side after the first set of lights. Most of the other souqs are straight ahead and on your left-hand side after the first set of lights, and next to the Fanar Islamic Cultural Centre – the building that looks like a spiral.

and accessories. Souq Al Jabor is good for ready-made clothing, baby clothes and lingerie. The Filipino Souq has practically everything you could want from the Philippines. Then Souq Al Asiery sells fabrics and luggage, and is also known as Escalator Souq from when it was the first place in Doha to have an escalator, although its’ since been replaced by elevators. There are more souqs than I have mentioned here, but they’re all within a stone's throw of each other so it's best just to go and take a look for yourselves, which of course we did.

What You’ll Find

The Family Visit

Practically anything! Here’s a run-down of the options: Souq Al Deira sells mostly fabrics and tailoring services. Souq Nasser bin Saif sells and fixes electronics: CDs, DVDs, mobile phones

We began our tour on a warm Saturday morning and started out at Souq Al Deira, the fabric souq. With its dozens of abaya stores this looks like the number one destination to get kitted out in

the local garb, for any of you expats out there who would like to blend in a little without paying through the roof. The souq is also a good place to buy fabric, should you want to make your own, or have someone make it for you. Thankfully, we also found a little knick-knack store selling very reasonably-priced toddler toys which kept our two-year-old out of mischief for the rest of the day. Carrying on down the road we wandered in and out of the Filipino Souq, Souq Al Asiery, where I

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Exploring the alley-ways and back-shops of the many souqs that populate the old city can be a stimulating day out for the kiddies

shops, more fabric and tailoring shops and then, as we got to the main drag, all sorts of handicrafts from paintings to Arab coffee pots, model dhow boats, to ornaments and artifacts. Having worked up an appetite for dessert, we stopped off at Tajine, a lovely Moroccan restaurant, for Moroccan mint tea, ice-cream for the kids and a shisha pipe for my husband -- nice! You've got to hand it to the designers of Souq Waqif, which was only restored in 2006, who have retained the souq’s traditional Arabic feel, for its lively and friendly ambiance, for the variety of products you can buy, and for the fact that you don't need to spend a fortune to enjoy a pleasant day or evening out where the kids can play, away from the cars, and the adults can wind down a little.

Missed Anything?

bought a cotton dress for the increasingly sticky days ahead and a couple of T-shirts for me and the kids, and then hit Souq Al Jabor which has an escalator (yay!) but no elevator (boo!)

fun of Souq Waqif which, I think it's safe to say, the Sands family has fallen in love with.

Being a two-storey building, the lack of an elevator was a little tricky with a buggy, and while I managed to reverse the buggy and myself onto the escalator like a true pro, the return downward journey required the assistance of a strong-armed man. Thankfully, there were plenty of likely candidates as most of the shops seem to be run by men, while most of the clientele, buying clothes, fabrics, lingerie etc. are women. Leaving Souq Al Jabor and approaching midday we all felt the need to get out of the heat, so we stopped for a chai in a tea stall run by a friendly Keralan.

As our tummies started to rumble and the kids required food before a melt-down ensued, we headed to our favourite kofta cafe next to the animals in Souq Waqif. We ate our fill for the usual QR 80 and enjoyed another large chai each for QR 2 apiece – no holes in the wallet here! Then with full bellies we started our circuitous passage through the meandering lanes of the souq, taking in the sights, smells and sounds along the way.

After this it was time for a well-earned a/c break in the car! We would return at sunset for all the

An Evening Tour Of Souq Waqif

Moving on past the fluorescent-coloured chicks and exotic birds and fish, we delved into the heart of the souq, passing tea stalls, sweet stalls, stores selling cooking equipment, plastic containers and boxes, shoe shops, clothes

You certainly don't want to pass up the opportunity of visiting the Falcon Souq and the Gold Souq, which are on either side of Souq Waqif. The kids will love the falcons, but beware they are pretty lethal so it's better to look and not touch. And if the sky's the limit in your jewellery budget then you can splurge to your heart's content in the Gold Souq. Even if you don't intend to buy, it's worth a look for all the dazzling gold jewellery you can see there. You might also be interested in paying a visit to the Souq Waqif Art Center which is home to various galleries of Arab- inspired art, and also, across the road and near to the other souqs is the Fanar Islamic Cultural Center which aims to “to help all non-Arabs to have a better understanding of Islam and the culture of Qatar” (www.fanar.gov.qa).

The Score Is Out Well this certainly ranks as one of my favourite days out with something for all ages to enjoy. Whether it’s the falcons, the reasonably-priced clothes, fabrics and electronics, or simply the chance to kick back and watch the world go by at Souq Waqif. All in all I’m giving a day out at the souqs an 8 out of 10! n

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Kids Club Listings RECOMMENDS

ONE OF A KIND THEATRIX GROUP Outta The Box & LOL Workshops

Spring term: Presented by SFQ Sports Academy, each course consists of ten weekly hour and a half sessions. Theatrix is a newly formed group of theatrical programs, founded by Joel Adams, offering courses for kids, pre-teens and adults. For more information call Joel at 6699-5321 or email jadams@fastmail.net.

EVERY WEEK HAMILTON AQUATICS Swimming For Kids

Ongoing: They provide quality lessons and training for everyone, from complete beginners to Olympians. Their best swimmer finished sixth at the 2012 Olympic Games. Key features of the program are small class sizes, fully-qualified and experienced teachers and coaches, and a learn-to-swim scheme that allows for individual rates of progression. They currently operate at four locations in Doha: Al Jazeera Academy, Al Maha Academy for Boys, Al Maha Academy for Girls and ACS Doha International School and look forward to helping your children become safe, confident and efficient swimmers. For more information email doha@hamiltonaquatics.ae.

CUB SCOUTS 1st Doha Cubs

Thursdays: Doha English Speaking School. This group is part of the British Scouts Association and meetings are from 4:30 p.m. till 6:00 p.m. in the DESS small gym. They provide activities, fun, and games for boys and girls ages 8-10. The Cub program is designed to develop all aspects of a young person’s character and personality. Cubs is run by two fully-warranted Cub Scout Leaders and supported by parents who help when they can. If your child would like to join the worldwide family of Scouting please email Janet Barnett at 1stdohacubs@gmail.com.

ELITE TENNIS ACADEMY Mini-Tennis Lessons

AL SAMARIYAH EQUESTRIAN CENTRE Horse-Riding

Mon-Sun: Opensfrom 6:30 a.m. till 7:00 p.m. Kids, adults, beginners or advanced, everyone is welcome at ASEC. The riding school is located next to the Sheikh Faisal Bin Qassim Al-Thani Museum on the Dukhan Road in Al Shahaniyah. At ASEC it’s possible to join both group or private lessons. They organize promenades in the forest, competitions, clinics, pony days/camps and lessons as an after-school activity. It’s also possible to celebrate your birthday at ASEC or to have a team-building day with us. For more information call 5525-7203 or email meg_jos@hotmail.com.

Ongoing: Mini-tennis is the best way for children to learn the sport. Research shows it’s essential for children up to the age of 10 to learn the physical skills of running, jumping, balance, co-ordination, throwing and catching, as well as basic tennis skills if they are to reach their full sporting potential. Expect to see lots of these activities in mini-tennis lessons. Allow your children to play in the mini-tennis colour stage that is appropriate to them, this will ensure they enjoy playing the game and gain confidence. For more information visit www.elite-tennisacademy.com.

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Food & Dining

s k c i P p o T ’s This Month

The Four Seasons Taste And Learn

Doha Marriott Canadian Lobster All-month: One of Canada’s most iconic species of lobster will be a feature in all of the hotel’s outlets this month. Did you know that Atlantic lobster is not only irresistibly delicious but one of the most versatile and nutritious sources of protein you can find relating to seafood? This month JW’s Steakhouse, Asia Live!, Salsa and Taj Rasoi are featuring tantalizing variations of lobster cooked to perfection. JW’s Steakhouse baked prawns wrapped in bacon paired with a half lobster are a delicious option for those who enjoy a hearty American style dish, while Asia Live! Thai lobster in green curry is a featured Asian specialty with flavours difficult to find outside of Thailand. Dinner service starts at 6:30 p.m. For more information call 4429-8499.

April 10: Il Teatro. Enjoy a live cooking lesson with a 4-course set menu. Start off with a welcome drink at the restaurant patio followed by a show from four distinguished Four Seasons chefs who will prepare one course each. Every guest will be able to watch the live preparation on a big screen and then taste what they’ve learned. Guests will receive the dinner dishes to take home in a recipe brochure. QR 230 per person including welcome drink and regular beverages or QR 340 per person including welcome drink and bubbly beverages. Starts at 7:00 p.m. For more information call 4494-8631.

Aspire Katara Hospitality Spit-Roasted Lamb All-month: Sukar Pasha Ottoman Lounge. Katara Cultural Village. Succulent spit-roasted whole lamb, well-marinated, seasoned to perfection and served with aromatic traditional Turkish rice for QR 99 per serving, starting at 7:00 p.m. For more information call 4408-2000.

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The Grand Hyatt British Brunch

InterContinental Doha South African Freedom Day April 24: One of the most popular annual events in Doha, enjoy a spectacular dinner on the beach with South African music and traditional national dishes. For more information call 4484-4919 or 4484-4444.

April 4: The Grill. Calling all Brits in the city! Get ready for the best of British cuisine as the British brunch will be serving classic UK fare accompanied by the best of Brit-pop with DJ Santiago. Book your soft beverage brunch for QR 295 or QR 420 for a special beverage brunch. All British residents will enjoy a 10% discount upon presenting their Qatari ID. For more information call 7798-2400.

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Food & Dining

Prime-Time

Intimate urban chic greets diners seeking a serene ambiance along with their filet mignon

By Jorge Granda Photography by Nadir Khamis Additional images courtesy of The InterContinental Doha The City

If you’re passionate about a good steak and upscale-dining, Prime at The InterContinental Doha The City will succeed in fulfilling your expectations. We tuck in and brace ourselves for a truly meaty meal.

’ve made early arrangements to visit Prime, arriving just when it opens up for the evening at 6:00 p.m. Like most Doha steakhouses, Prime’s décor consists of dark wood tones, leather seats and racks of vino on display. The lighting is low, with the right amount of glowing ambiance on each table, and while it looks like a somewhat ‘dressy’ place the atmosphere is relaxed and unpretentious. The restaurant is big enough to provide diners with a comfortable, yet private setting. Guests can choose to experience a live-grill show from the kitchen, an interactive dining area or a private dining room.

We are seated at a comfortable, candle-lit table in the middle of the restaurant. Though we’re surrounded by others, we have enough space so as not to be disturbed by the conversations of other diners around us. Tonight we’re lucky to be sampling dishes from Prime’s new menu that’s now available, as restaurant manager Ally Hossenbux takes care of us for the evening. He’s incredibly attentive and cordial, and once we’re seated he places a bread basket on the table. All pastries are warm, fresh, and delicious – not very common in restaurants in the city, so I’m pleasantly surprised.

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The sea bass with leek and mussel fondue served with a decadently calorific Grenobloise sauce

Prime's Chef Valentin

Sumptuous mushroom risotto is offset by bitter rocket and velvety Parmesan

that infuse the broth are just the right pairing. It’s a well-executed dish with the right mix of ingredients. We continue with a crab cake and spring onion salad, red pepper sauce and avocado coulis. It’s a light, simple dish with a beautiful flavour and texture, dissolving the moment the fork enters your mouth. The chef really nailed it with this appetizer.

We start our dinner with three different appetizers, followed by two main courses and dessert. Our first are tasty braised short ribs served with wasabi sauce, roasted pumpkin and spinach. The meat is juicy and considerably soft, melting in my mouth. The combination of the wasabi, pumpkin and spinach enhances the flavour of this amuse-bouche, making it the perfect start to any meal. The ribs are followed by a potato and leek soup. The bowl is hot enough as a soup should be, allowing you to truly enjoy it without burning your tongue. The flavours of the sautéed leek and truffle cream

Our first main course is an outstanding sea bass fillet served with leeks, mussel fondue and a buttery Grenobloise sauce. The fish is cooked to perfection, perfectly-grilled on the outside, juicy and tender on the inside. There are little morsels of seasoned olives and tiny slices of tomato on the top of the fish and their flavours penetrate the sea bass for a splendid taste. The dish promises a lot and it delivers. Our final main course of the evening is definitely the star of the show. The scrumptious Prime grilled tenderloin served with truffled Parmesan fries and pepper sauce. The meat is cooked beautifully – unseasoned of course so you can better enjoy the taste and quality, but you’re also free to accompany it with one of Prime’s signature sauces. The mushroom and pepper

Braised short-ribs with wasabi sauce and roasted pumpkin are a fiery burst of flavour

sauce stands out, bursting with flavour; it’s a timeless, classic tenderloin dish and I loved it. For dessert we try their lemon cheesecake. A sensational treat, it’s moist and has indescribable richness in every bite. Delicious and decadent, it’s everything a cheesecake is supposed to be. Prime offers an enjoyable fine dining experience any night of the week. The steakhouse checked all the right boxes – good food, good service and reasonable prices. n

PRIME Location: The InterContinental Doha The City, 1st floor Timings: 6:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m., daily Licensed: Yes Smoking: Yes, but by the bar only Average Meal Price: QR 360 per person, with one appetizer, one main and one dessert Contact Info: Call 4015-8888 or email doharestaurants@ihg.com

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Food & Dining

Old World

Flavour Words & selected images by Ashlee Starratt Additional photography by Srimani Welagedara

With its prime waterfront location at Katara and enticing ambiance, Mamig Restaurant beckons with the flavours of old world Armenia.

erving up Arabic cuisine with a regional twist, Mamig Restaurant offers up a tempting array of Lebanese-Armenian dishes, straight from Grandma’s kitchen. Because really, what’s an all-the-comforts-of-home meal without a strong woman at the helm? In this case, that lady is Chef Zarmig. Humble, talented and passionate about all things gastronomy, she has embraced her Armenian roots to bring a taste of her homeland to Qatar. It’s early on a weekday when we arrive at Mamig and the restaurant is just starting its

first service of the day – lunch. Spanning two floors, Mamig is one of the few restaurants at Katara to offer seating on two levels. The lower floor is spacious and elegant – a more classic dining room feel, while a short elevator ride away the upper floor beckons diners with its enclosed terrace and rustic décor reminiscent of a traditional Armenian home. As we’re seated, warm sunlight washes through the picture windows, throwing glints off the turquoise waters of West Bay. Today we’re sampling a variety of hot and cold Armenian mezze, coupled with some mains that are a family favourite of Chef Zarmig’s. She explains to us that the differences in nuance of Armenian cooking come from the spices used to flavour each dish. Fresh red chili pepper imported from Armenia, mint, cumin, cinnamon, sumac and rose-water all make an appearance on our plates. First up is a selection of Armenian appetizers featuring a fiery eech salad, traditional hummus with freshly-made flatbread, vart boereg – or cheese roses with basterma, panjarov sarma – Swiss chard stuffed

A sweet ending of traditional Arabic desserts

with walnuts and Armenian spices and gedzou patates –spicy potatoes with a fragrant blend of spices. It’s all too much and it’s all too flavourful. The cheese roses are tiny parcels that melt in your mouth, while the eech salad, made with white burghul – steamed, dried and crushed wheat kernels, is refreshing with its blend of tomato base, a kick of chili and a burst of those famous Armenian spices. The panjarov sarma is equally earthy; similar to a stuffed vine leave, this

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version based with walnuts is less heavy than its counterparts with rice, while nubbins of pomegranate seeds add a sweet finish. The main courses to follow can only be described as the ultimate cold weather comfort food or those traditional tastes of home that only your mother or grandmother can pull off – often imitated but never duplicated. First up is soujouk boereg, which can best be described as what the Armenian version of lasagna could be like, though still very different in concept. Delicate layers of soujouk and halloumi cheese are stacked as thin and fine as phyllo The succulent, fragrant pastry, complemented and sweet fishne kebab by notes of dried mint and cumin. There is also a platter of fishne kebab which is one of the big hits of the meal. Tender juicy lamb patties are seasoned with parsley and lemon juice and topped with a fishne (wild cherry) reduction that is redolent of cinnamon and Mamig’s own blend of seven spices.

A platter of stuffed panjarov sarma tops off our trio of cold mezze

Chef Zarmig celebrates the much-loved tastes of her Armenian homeland

It’s absolutely lush, and so is what’s up next. Let us introduce you to mante, which is an Armenian crock-pot dish. Baked a deep ceramic bowl and left to stew in its own juices, it’s a mouth-watering blend of spiced beef rendered in lamb fat and stewed in ghee and sumac. It’s then topped with a sumptuous tomato sauce and served with strippets of dough (kind of like dumplings), and a generous lashing of matsoun, a heavy yogurt aromatic with cloves of garlic. Stuffed by this smorgasbord, we take some time to kick back with some sweet apple shisha and digest with a potent cup of coffee. We finish up with a helping of traditional Armenian rice pudding, dusted with fresh cinnamon, crunchy sari boorma and a few other sweet endings. Without a doubt Mamig sets the bar high on a scene where Arabic gastronomy is in need of the new, the refreshed, and the unexpected. Bon appétit. n MAMIG RESTAURANT Location: Building 2, Katara Cultural Village Timings: Sun-Wed, 1:00 p.m. till midnight Thurs-Sat, 1:00 p.m. till 1:00 a.m. Smoking: Yes, shisha also available

The eech salad with its blend of tomato, chili and burghul packed a tasty punch

Contact Info: 4408-0800 or www.mamig.com

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Special Promotion

Brunch La Spiga-Style! This month The W Doha offers diners a special two-for-one voucher to celebrate the launch of their new Friday brunch at La Spiga by Paper Moon. So, what are you waiting for? Tear it out and get brunching!

he W Doha is a modern sanctuary above the city; peering out over the blue Arabian Gulf it’s’ signature style and vivid interiors set the scene for unforgettable days and nights. The hotel is famous in Doha for being the house of many incredible outlets such as the one-and-only Spice Market, the international Market by Jean Georges and newcomer, La Spiga by Paper Moon.

Chic ambiance meets Italian home-style cuisine at La Spiga by Paper Moon

In La Spiga diners can experience authentic Italian cuisine amidst vibrant design and a sophisticated scene, setting the tone for an extraordinary dining experience. Renowned for creating popular haunts for global trendsetters in Milan, New York and Istanbul, Paper Moon has brought its vision to The W Doha. And now, The W Doha is offering diners a super offer to enhance the experience – if you book one brunch for two (or ‘broonch’ as the folks at La Spiga like to call it), by presenting the voucher below, the second ‘broonch’ is on the house. Sounds good to us! n

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Special Promotion

From Qatar To The UK Aspire Katara Hospitality has announced the opening of Chapati & Karak in London, and they’re bringing you all the tasty details.

atara Cultural Village is not only the cultural hub of the country, but also the playground for many international chefs and cuisines. Some of the most amazing restaurants offering a vast variety of global cuisines in Doha are located at Katara, providing visitors the opportunity to experience an exceptional culinary journey while walking through its stunning infrastructure. A great majority of these restaurants are operated by the Doha-based company Aspire Katara Hospitality (AKH). Among the many restaurants AKH operates in the country are L’wzaar, the first seafood market and restaurant of its kind in the region showcasing more than 50 varieties of seafood; the sensational Italian restaurant le Vesuvio, the one-of-a-kind Chac’ Late and the cigar lounge in Katara, El Cigar Lounge. In January AKH crossed its borders to open Chapati & Karak UK in London. From Katara to Knightsbridge, Chapati & Karak UK will make its mark among international luxury brands, designer shops and the famous high-end department store, Harrods. Known for serving a traditional culinary cuisine, Chapati & Karak will continue to please London’s food enthusiast crowd with its savoury chapati flatbread served alongside karak – a loose milk-doused tea boiled with sugar. It’s high-tea Qatar-style! n CHAPATI & KARAK UK Location: 144 Brompton Road, Knightsbridge, London, UK Timings: 9:00 a.m. till 11:00 p.m., daily

Take a break from the fast city pace and relax in traditional Arabic-style

Contact info: Call +44 20 7052 0039 www.facebook.com/chapatikarakuk www.instagram.com/chapatikarakuk www.twitter.com/chapatikarakuk

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Food & Dining The colourful interior of Chowking's spacious Holiday Villa Hotel location

New Flavours At Ladle up an extra helping of the new Chinese Seafood Soup

Photography by Jessie Palanca

With a new Indo-Chinese menu launching at Chowking outlets across Doha, the iconic Filipino brand continues to bring the spice of life in every bite.

e’re spoiled for choice when it comes to quick, fast-food lunch and dinner options in Doha. But how often can we claim to be making the healthiest choices for ourselves and our families when we’re on the run? Chowking restaurant, an associate of Ahmed Hassan Bilal Group, has stepped in to fill that gap with the launch of their new Indo-Chinese menu. As of March, savvy diners can now enjoy a taste of Asia at Chowking's Holiday Villa Hotel location and also at their newest branch in Dar Al Salam Mall planned for April 1, 2014. The new menu features classic Oriental flavours with an array of new soups, appetizers and noodle dishes that give a nod to the health-conscious. There’s the Chinese seafood soup with a rich broth and fresh ingredients to start you off on the right foot, or for those that like their brimming bowls with a kick of spice there’s the hot and sour chicken soup to try, with thick portions of meat blended with a special mix of spices for a light, spicy taste.

Chowking will also be offering a range of crisp, new salads as part of their new Indo-Chinese appetizer selections. Try the classic green salad with your choice of condiments over a bed of perky, crunchy greens, or if your palate wanders to the more adventurous, opt for their new papaya salad lightly flavoured with a mild peanut sauce. Finally, for diners looking to indulge in heartier fare, slurp up some of the restaurant’s signature Indo-Chinese hakka noodles. Choose from either a seafood base with Chowking’s unique, flavourful sauce or if you’re feeling meaty go for their mix noodles with only the freshest cuts of chicken and beef. With a loyal base of customers whetting their appetites at any of the restaurant’s five locations across Qatar, Chowking continues to hold strong to the edge they’ve made in a culinary climate where quality of taste and value for money are top considerations for discerning diners in Doha. n

INDO-CHINESE MENU Chinese Seafood Soup, QR 12 Hot & Sour Chicken Soup, QR 16 Green Salad, QR 12 Papaya Salad, QR 18 Mix Hakka Noodles, QR 20 Seafood Hakka Noodles, QR 20

CHOWKING Locations: • Holiday Villa Hotel (Entrance #7, Ground Floor, Muntaza) • Salwa Road (near Radisson Blu Hotel) • Al Saad St. (before Commercial Bank) • Al Khor Mall, Al Khor (2nd floor food court area) • Dar Al Salam Mall (Level 1, Mamoura) Timings: • Holiday Villa location: 10:00 a.m. till 1:00 a.m. (Sat-Thurs) 8:30 a.m. till 11:00 a.m. & 12:30 p.m. till 1:00 a.m. (Friday) • All other locations: 10:00 a.m. till 11:00 p.m.

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Food & Dining Contest winner Nadjib K. (left) enjoys the Tasting and Sharing Menu with dining companion Sarah Williams

Word of Mouth The bosphorale dessert is sheer chocolate decadence

Photography by Nadir Khamis

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 Nadjib K. tries the Tasting and Sharing Menu at The Lounge in the Kempinski Residences & Suites. Here is his review. QH: What did you order? NK: The Mediterranean Platter for our main and the Bosphorale for dessert. QH: Were the prices reasonable? NK: The Mediterranean Platter was QR 195 and the Bosphorale was QR 65. We considered the prices very reasonable for both the quality and quantity of food. QH: Describe the ambiance. NK: The ambiance in The Lounge is ok – it’s not outstanding or horrible. With a name like The Lounge, the music expectation is lounge music

or popular music with a lounge/jazz/blues feel. But often what comes through the speakers at The Lounge at all hours is house music premixes. That’s great when you’re getting geared up for some dancing on a Thursday or Friday, but doesn’t suit the dining or lounging experience the rest of the time. This wouldn’t be an issue, but the acoustics in The Lounge are very poor and even light music reverberates in an awkward way in the space. Early evening drinks and food require a lighter auditory touch. The lighting and décor are both perfect to set the ambiance that The Lounge is striving for. The bar is one of the most spectacular in Doha – made from marble and lit from within. The soft lighting, high ceilings and dark wood all combine to create

a very relaxing space. However, it’s one of the worst offenders when it comes to the ‘Great Doha Mistake’ – torrential a/c. The Lounge is never a comfortable temperature at any time of the year. The a/c is set to Nuclear Winter at all times and could definitely do with a tweak. QH: Describe the quality of the food. NK: The Mediterranean Platter was surprising. The cured meats were spectacular and some of the best we’ve tasted in Doha and the fish on the platter was superb. The cheese selection was fair to good. As it’s a Mediterranean Platter, it could have used a few more Mediterranean foods such as olives, feta or goat’s cheese or tapenade/bruschetta. The only true nod to Mediterranean food aside from the excellent cured meat was a few sun-dried tomatoes. QH: Describe the quality of the service. NK: The service was prompt, attentive

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and polite. The Doha service industry seems to swing between extremes – exceptionally attentive to the point of stalking, or so unconcerned, you wonder if you’ll ever actually be served. The Lounge doesn’t seem to suffer from this – we didn’t have to wait long for anything, and every question we asked was answered knowledgeably. QH: Would you go back? Why/why not? NK: Yes. The Lounge is overall a pleasant place to while away a few hours with friends during the week after work. It also has great music on Thursday nights. QH: Favourite thing about the restaurant? NK: The gorgeous bar! QH: Least favourite thing about the restaurant? NK: The layout and the seating – The Lounge is a long, rectangular hall with an entire wall taken up by private booths which are too tucked away. That means the only place for live music or DJs is just to the right of the bar, near the piano. If people are seated anywhere but the few immediate tables near the bar, it’s impossible to see the musicians. The further away from the bar you get, the more distorted the sound as well. The seating for the smaller individual tables near the bar is awful – The Lounge seems to have tried to compensate for the shape of the space by having seats so low to the ground that you may as well be sitting on the floor. For ladies in heels, this proves a bit difficult and the chairs are nearly impossible to get comfortable in – not ideal for a place to lounge in. QH: Was there a special touch or flair to the experience? NK: The head of Food and Beverage was very charming and knowledgeable, and genuinely seemed to love his job. That made us more interested in the dining experience and more likely to come back. QH: Could the overall experience be improved? If so, how? NK: See above!

EDITOR’S NOTE:

The Mediterranean Sharing Platter is a charcuterie of cured meats, tapenades and other treats to tempt the palate

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 These delicate treats have as much history behind them as flavour inside them

One Sweet World:

Gulab Jamun

Words and images by Gerald Tan

From many a grandmother’s kitchen, this traditional sweet from the subcontinent has sustained a nation. We pop back these little bites of glory one-by-one and satisfy our craving.

hen I speak to friends of South Asian heritage about gulab jamun, almost each one has a visceral memory of this sweet, sticky dessert. I hear childhood stories of kids waiting eagerly as their Moms prepare them, some sneaking in a few balls before dinnertime and getting caught because of the syrup trail. My association with gulab jamun is more of a visual one. Whenever I walk by food shops selling Indian or Pakistani food, I am instantly drawn to the dessert larders (go figure). Behind the glass would sit beautiful mounds of cakes and candies of saffron and pink, mostly studded with almonds or cashews, dusted with coconut and icing sugar. Invariably, my gaze would shift to the tureen housing these glistening amber-hued balls… floating in a rose-scented syrup. You just know they’re saturated and poised for that first bite when a small symphony of sugary, milky, flowery flavours goes ‘whoosh’ in your mouth. I believe it’s that simple amalgamation of milk and sugar that makes this treat so sickeningly good. Gulab jamun translates to ‘rose berries’. The first half of its moniker refers to

the syrup, a simple reduction of sugar with rosewater, while jamuns are a kind of berry found in India. The balls are traditionally made from khoya, or milk solids. A popular ingredient in Indian cuisine, khoya is sold commercially in big hunks resembling cheese. It can also be made at home simply by boiling milk until all the liquid evaporates and only the curd remains. The khoya is mixed with some flour, cardamom powder, baking soda and water to form a soft dough from which little balls are formed, before being deep-fried in oil (or ghee for extra flavour). And here’s the real pressure point. It’s essential for the oil to be hot but the flame to remain low – so the gulab jamuns cook all the way through while maintaining a uniform golden colour outside. Needless to say, there’s always an easier way. If grating khoya isn’t your thing, or if it’s not available, powdered milk is an acceptable substitute. I also know of some home cooks who use paneer, another form of milk solids. But the biggest shortcut of them all is to resort to pre-packaged gulab jamun mix – simply add water and fry.

The final step is perhaps the most excruciating… leaving the gulab jamuns for a few hours as the balls sit and stew in syrup to gain their candied fluffiness. I guess this helps explain why they’re popular at restaurants and so widely available at bakeries and sweet shops. You can cut the torture of waiting and skip to the part where you gobble the entire ball in one mouthful…then blissfully float away. n TRY GULAB JAMUN HERE: Aalishan Ibn Seena Street, Muntazah 4431-5999 Daily, 12 noon till 3:00 p.m., & 7:00 p.m. till 11:30 p.m. MRA Bakery & Restaurant Behind New World Centre, Old Al Ghanim 4442-2072 Daily, 6:00 a.m. till 2:00 a.m. Al-Muzammil Sweets Al Diwan Street near Two Swords Intersection 4443-3758 Daily, 8:00 a.m. till 10:00 p.m.

Each month, food journalist Gerald Tan features the desserts of different cuisines and where they can be found in Qatar. Visit his website www.boulangerry.com for recipes and culinary chronicles from his travels or Tweet him @geraldotan.

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Food & Dining

Egg hunts, chocolate overload and a heightened reverence for fuzzy bunnies are all hallmarks of the Easter celebrations we know and love. This year, Doha gets in on the fun with a host of hotel-centric activities. CROWNE PLAZA DOHA – THE BUSINESS PARK Easter Brunch

April 20: Aramede Restaurant. This Easter Sunday, treat your family to a sumptuous Easter Brunch with fun activities such as an egg hunt and Easter egg-decorating station, plus live entertainment from their resident band. QR 225 per adult, QR 110 per child (ages 6-12 years). Children under six years of age dine free of charge. QR 305 per adult including house beverages. From 12:30 noon till 4:00 p.m. For more information call 4408-7777.

DOHA MARRIOTT Easter Weekend Brunch

April 18 & 19: Indulge in something enchanting this Easter and embark with your children on an incredible culinary journey. This themed weekend brunch will bring you and your family on an adventure through an array of spectacular chocolate creations and delicious culinary selections from around the world. Children are welcome to join in an exciting Easter egg hunt as well as many more fun and memorable activities. QR 380 for ‘all-in’ bubbly beverage package. From 12:30 noon till 4:00 p.m. For more information call 4429-8499.

Easter Late Brunch

April 18: Easter is just around the corner! Party the night away at the Easter-themed Late Brunch and bring your friends to an evening overflowing with dancing, chocolates, colourful candies and yummy chocolate-inspired cocktails, all for QR 380. From 6:00 p.m. till 10:30 p.m. For more information call 4429-8499.

THE FOUR SEASONS Good Friday Brunch

April 18: Nusantao Restaurant. Come together with family and friends to celebrate this wondrous moveable feast at The Four Seasons. Enjoy an irresistible selection of appetizers, desserts and a sumptuous whole-roasted lamb, neatly presented at the Easter-inspired brunch buffet. The little ones will also have an enjoyable day filled with cheer and amusement. Excite them with different activities like balloon-twisting, bouncy castle, face-painting, egg-hunting, and more. QR 375 for full buffet inclusive of regular beverages, or QR 460 for sparkling brunch. QR 190 for kids ages five to 12 years old, kids below the age of five dine free of charge. From 12:00 noon till 4:00 p.m. For more information call 4494-8601.

THE GRAND HYATT Easter Brunch

April 18: The Grill. Take your family on a journey of delicious excellence this Easter at The Grill. From 12:30 noon till 4:00 p.m., enjoy a scrumptious buffet, live cooking stations and special children’s delights and Easter activities including an amazing egg hunt in the garden. For more information call 7798-2400.

Easter Lunch & Dinner

April 20 & 21: The Grill and Rocca. Choose your favourite cuisine, whether Italian or international, and book for yourself, family and friends to have some quality time this Easter. Guests can enjoy breath-taking views of the Arabian Gulf or the hotel gardens and a four-course menu for QR 180. For more information call 7021-8096 for Rocca bookings, and 7798-2400 for The Grill bookings.

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KEMPINSKI RESIDENCES & SUITES Easter à La Carte Brunch

April 18 & 19: Aroma. Enjoy intimate family moments in Aroma and treat your loved ones with a genuinely European à la carte brunch! Choose from the finest selection of Aroma’s favourite dishes and let your children enjoy their entertainment zone and the egg hunt! QR 250 per person including soft drinks selection, children ages six to 12 enjoy 50% off, while children below the age of six dine complimentary. 12 noon till 3:30 p.m. For more information call 4405-3325, email restaurants.doha@kempinski.com or visit www.kempinski.com/doha.

Easter Goodies

All-month: Gourmet House. Homemade chocolate bunnies and eggs of all sizes show up in Gourmet House this Easter! Indulge in the sweet creations or gift them to your family and loved ones. Need an extraordinary creation? Just let them know 48 hours in advance and their pastry chefs will make it your wishes come true! For more information call 4405-3326, email gourmet.doha@kempinski.com or visit www.kempinski.com/doha.

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA THE CITY Easter Friday Brunch

April 18: The Square. Join in this April for Easter brunch in The Square. Enjoy the delicious international buffet while your little ones enjoy a visit from the Easter Bunny and lots of other Easter activities to keep them entertained. QR 350 inclusive ofhouse beverages or QR 250 including soft beverages. For more information call 4015-8888 or email doharestaurants@ihg.com.

Easter Friday Brunch

April 18: Al Jawhara Ballroom. Bring all your friends and family together for the ultimate family Easter brunch! Enjoy a wide variety of dishes on the buffet, featuring Easter sweets and carvings. There will also be a large play area for your little ones to enjoy a variety of fun activities including egg-painting, face-painting and balloon-twisting! Priced at just QR 200 inclusive of soft beverages and QR 100 for children the ages of six and 12 years old. For more information call 4015-8888 or email doharestaurants@ihg.com.

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA Celebrate The Easter Season

April 20: Join and celebrate Easter Sunday with friends and family in Coral Restaurant, Mykonos and Fish Market. Special kids’ activities include an egg-hunt, egg-painting, colouring, face-painting and many more. For more information call 4484-4919 or 4484-4444.

Chocolates & Easter Sweets

April 19 & 20: Sky Lounge. Share the happiness of Easter with the hotel’s special Easter sweets and chocolates to eat in or to take away from their Sky Lounge counter. For more information call 4402-3333.

LA CIGALE Easter Brunch

April 20: Le Cigalon. Savour a succulent holiday brunch this Easter and enjoy with your family and friends a wide assortment of appetizers, salads, Easter lamb and an extensive seafood, sushi and sashimi display. Also, don’t forget the special kids’ corner and the variety of Arabic and international sweets. QR 270 inclusive of one American coffee or tea. For more information call 4428-8698.

MÖVENPICK HOTEL DOHA Easter Surprise

April 20: Seasons Restaurant. Dash to Seasons restaurant on Sunday April 20 from 12:00 noon till 3:30 p.m. and indulge in an elegant Easter brunch. The buffet feast includes carvery and live cooking stations, a seafood display, a wonderland salad bar and an endless dessert selection. Kids will enjoy fun activities including face-painting and an exciting Easter egg hunt in the garden. Priced at just QR 215 per person excluding beverages. Children and teens ages 12-16 get a 50% discount, while children under the age of 12 dine free. For more information call 4429-1111.

ORYX ROTANA Chocolate Egg Workshop

April 19: Sky Lounge. Their professional pastry chef will be giving a workshop available for all at QR 115 per person, starting at 3:00 p.m. Reservations should be made two days in advance. For more information call 4402-3333.

SHARQ VILLAGE & SPA Easter Brunch

April 20: Al Liwan. The hotel’s two most popular venues offer a very bubbly brunch with lots of children’s activities, including face-painting and an Easter egg hunt. Extensive buffet includes Easter specialties and international favourites. QR 300 per person including soft drinks or QR 350 per person with free-flowing sparkling beverages. For more information call 4425-6666.

THE ST. REGIS DOHA Benjamin Bunny Afternoon Tea

April 18: The St. Regis Lawn. Join Benjamin Bunny and all his friends for a day of story-telling and egg-hunting with a special children’s afternoon tea on The St. Regis lawn. Dress up as your favourite character and join them for a special afternoon tea and lots of family Easter fun. QR 150 for adults, QR 60 for children, complimentary for infants and children up to the age of three. From 3:00 p.m. till 6:00 p.m. For more information call 4446-0105 or email diningreservation@stregis.com.

Easter Brunch

April 20: Vine Restaurant. Enjoy the taste of St. Regis showcased with an extensive Easter buffet, live cooking stations and special delights for the children. With lots of Easter activities on the terrace including an egg hunt, face-painting, a jumping castle and more, this is the perfect family day out. QR 345 includes soft beverages, QR 395 includes a selection of house beverages. From 12:30 noon till 4:00 p.m. For more information call 4446-0105 or email diningreservation@stregis.com. n

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Food & Dining Listings RECOMMENDS

d tegorize s are ca n is limited g n ti s li io All l. Inclus e, with per hoteability of spac rtisers. il e a v v d a to a given to priority

EVERY WEEK CROWNE PLAZA DOHA – THE BUSINESS PARK Phoenician Night

Mondays: Aramede. Enjoy a wide variety of Lebanese and Oriental specialties with live cooking stations and Arabic desserts taking you to the midst of the Orient. QR 150 per adult and QR 75 per child (ages six to 12 years). From 6:00 p.m. For more information call 4408-7777.

RADISSON BLU

By The Sea

Seafood Sunday

Sundays: Pier 12. A buffet with a twist! Choose as many items of individual fresh starters, mains and desserts from the chef’s trolley and they will cook them exactly to your liking! The perfect way to try lots of the fabulous delights that Pier 12 has to offer. QR 280 inclusive of selected house beverages, QR 260 inclusive of soft drinks. From 6:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4428-1555.

PROMOTIONS CHOWKING New Indo-Chinese Menu & Value Meals

Daily: Tuck in to the new flavours at Chowking with the launch of their Indo-Chinese menu now being served at the Holiday Villa Hotel and Dar Al Salam Mall locations. Also, enjoy dinner for 2 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.

THE GRAND HYATT Cooking Class

April 5 & 25: Isaan. Chef Wachira and Isaan’s team invite guests to learn how to prepare the best Thai recipes. Sessions start at 11:00 a.m. and end at 3:00 p.m. for a fee of QR 280 including lunch. For individual and group bookings call 7021-8097.

See us online! om www.qatarhappening.c

KEMPINSKI RESIDENCES & SUITES Light It Up Blue

April 2: The Lounge & Gourmet House. April 2 is dedicated World Autism Awareness Day. The Light It Up Blue campaign was established in 2010 and last year serene blue light radiated from every corner of the Earth; 8,400 landmarks, buildings, large and small businesses and homes were illuminated. They could be found on every continent and in 101 countries and 1,350 cities. On April 2 Kempinski will celebrate with a Blue Wednesday by illuminating the exterior of the tallest tower in West Bay, spreading tones of blue at The Lounge and offering blue cupcakes in Gourmet House. For more information call 4405-3325, email restaurants.doha@kempinski.com or visit www.kempinski.com/doha.

Wednesdays: Aramede. Come and enjoy seafood night at their all-day dining restaurant. QR 250 per adult, QR 125 per child (ages six to 12 years). From 6:00 p.m. For more information call 4408-7777.

DOHA MARRIOTT JW’s Has A New Look

Daily: JW’s Steakhouse. Featuring a refreshed and re-invigorated interior with new wall displays, enhanced lighting, and tasteful soft furnishings, the first steakhouse in Doha has a new lease on life! 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 lovers will not be disappointed by the delicate selection on the menu and the presentation, paired with impeccable service and mouth-watering flavours promises an unforgettable evening. For more information call 4429-8499.

THE ST. REGIS DOHA Picnic On The Lawn

Mexican Cuisine

Saturdays: Opal by Gordon Ramsay. The picnic on the lawn is back by popular demand. Blue skies, soft grass, picnic rugs, delicious food and family fun. QR 290 including soft drinks, other beverages payable upon consumption. Children under the age of 12 receive 50% off. From 12:00 noon till 6:00 p.m. For more information call 4446-0105 or email diningreservations@stregis.com.

Daily: Salsa. Enjoy a lively slice of Mexico at Salsa TexMex Restaurant. Let the authentic, picturesque setting and its colourful charm be an exciting backdrop for an evening full of rich flavours and spices and let their authentic Mariachi band liven up your dining experience. Whether you opt for your favourite fajita or try something new off the stone plate, at Salsa you’ll find everything you need for the perfect Mexican fiesta. For more information call 4429-8499.

Grapes & Cheese Nights

Traditional Indian Cuisine

April 15: Opal By Gordon Ramsay. Once a month the head sommelier opens one of the largest cellars in Doha inviting enthusiasts for a tasting paired with the finest selection of gourmet cheeses. Places are limited, bookings essential. QR 375 per person, including 10 exclusive labels and a selection of cheese. From 6:00 p.m. till 8:00 p.m. For more information call 4446-0105 or email diningreservations@stregis.com.

Daily: Taj Rasoi. Elegant yet simple, understated yet rich, these are the characteristics reflected in the authentic Indian ambiance, the tantalizing dishes from various regions of India as well as in the outstanding service at Taj Rasoi. You will be transported into a dining experience full of aromatic herbs and spices rarely enjoyed elsewhere in the city. For more information call 4429-8499.

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Southeast Asian Cuisine

Daily: Asia Live! Featuring an exotic blend of Southeast Asian cuisine, Asia Live! offers an array of fragrant dishes from Japanese and Thai to Malaysian and Vietnamese cuisine. Enjoy freshly-prepared sushi or indulge in a skillful demonstration of teppanyaki art. For more information call 4429-8499.

THE FOUR SEASONS A Taste of Britain

Daily: Library Bar & Cigar Lounge. Discover the real taste of Britain with delectable English dishes such as the traditional roast beef, steak and Guinness pie. A la carte menu is also available. From 5:00 p.m. till 12:00 midnight. For more information call 4494-8981.

HILTON DOHA Ladies’ Lunch At Trader Vic’s

Sat-Thurs: Trader Vic’s. Receive a complimentary soup or salad and dessert of the day when ordering a main course. Ladies lunch in Trader Vic’s – a place so trendy it deserves to be on your Instagram! Enjoy a healthy and exotic three-course lunch for the price of one main in Trader Vic’s! For more information call 4423-3118.

THE GRAND HYATT Curry Nights

Mondays: Isaan. Everybody’s favourite Thai restaurant is offering a new concept of all-you-can-eat curry! Every Monday in April from 7:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m., guests can order a variety of unlimited curry to share, with their choice of fish, beef, chicken, mussels or vegetables. Bring your friends and share up to five curries per round. QR 75 per person. For more information call 7021-8097.

The Energy Lunch

Daily: Rocca. Book your table at Rocca and enjoy your daily dose of tasty carbs for QR 75. You can choose your favourite appetizer and your choice of pizza or pasta from Rocca’s delicious Italian menu plus coffee and water every day. For more information call 7021-8096.

KEMPINSKI RESIDENCES & SUITES Bakery Happy Hour

Sun-Fri: Gourmet House. The best and most fresh bakery products in the city, on sale every evening from 7:00 p.m. till 9:00 p.m. Gourmet House, well known for its products, gives you the chance to purchase them for half-price. For more information call 4405-3326, email gourmet.doha@kempinski.com or visit www.kempinski.com/doha.

Camel Milk Chocolate

Sun- Fri: Gourmet House. Al Nassma chocolate, the first and finest camel milk chocolate is now exclusively available in Gourmet House! Reflecting the flavours of the region, the premium chocolate uses camel milk as its finest ingredient. From 7:00 a.m. till 9:00 p.m. For more information call 4405-3326 or email gourmet.doha@kempinski.com or visit www.kempinski.com/doha.

A La Carte Experience

Daily: Aroma. Aroma invites you for a new culinary experience beyond dining. A mix of fusion creations blended with the European heritage of Kempinski and the local fresh produce of Qatar is on offer with the innovative dinner a la carte menu at Aroma, created by the Executive Chef Mike Scheumann. 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.

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Food & Dining Listings GRAND HERITAGE Refinement Of Ottoman & Modern Turkish Cuisine

Mon-Sat: Agora. This divine Turkish restaurant offers modern Turkish and Ottoman dishes inspired by the Black Sea and the Balkan regions with Mediterranean touches. Monday and Tuesday from 6:00 p.m. till 11:30 p.m., Wednesday to Saturday from 1:00 p.m. till 11:30 p.m. For more information call 4445-5555.

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA Theme Nights At Coral Restaurant

Sundays: Turf Night dinner buffet. QR 250 including a glass of house beverage. Mondays: Sushi Boutique dinner buffet. QR 225 including a glass of house beverage. Tuesdays: Asian Night dinner buffet. QR 225 including a glass of house beverage Wednesday: Italian Night dinner buffet. QR 225 including a glass of house beverage. Thursdays: Phoenician Night dinner. QR 235 including a glass of house beverage. Fridays: Coral Goes BBQ dinner. QR 225 including a glass of house beverage. Saturdays: Surf Night seafood dinner buffet. QR 260 including a glass of house beverage. Saturday Kids and Family Brunch from 12:30 noon till 4:00 p.m. QR 250 per person including bubbly and QR 225 with soft drinks. For more information call 4484-4919 or 4484-4444.

Greek BBQ Night

Mondays: Mykonos. Enjoy a variety of mezze with a selection of salads, starters and dips, followed by BBQ freshly-prepared on the terrace and end up with a selection of Greek desserts. QR 170 per person. From 6:30 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4484-4919 or 4484-4444.

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA THE CITY Sushi Night Mondays: Strata. Open sushi and sashimi, accompanied by a Japanese traditional beverage for QR 225 including one drink and QR 200 for food only. For more information call 4015-8888 or email doharestaurants@ihg.com.

Daily Theme Nights

Daily: The Square. Feast on an exciting array of international dishes every Friday, Saturday and Sunday evening. Mondays offer the best of the Mediterranean and include authentic Italian, Spanish, Lebanese, Moroccan, French and Greek delicacies. Take a trip to Asia every Tuesday where Thai, Chinese, Japanese and Indian favourites take centre-stage. QR 180 excluding beverages or 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.

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LA CIGALE International Cuisine

Daily: Le Cigalon. Enjoy international cuisine with Lebanese specialties at their daily extravagant breakfast, lunch and dinner buffet with a la carte option available. Buffet breakfast at QR 130 and buffet lunch or dinner with live cooking stations at QR 220 per person, inclusive of American coffee or tea. From 6:30 a.m. till 11:30 p.m. For more information call 4428-8698.

Best Sushi

Daily: YEN Sushi Bar. Enjoy the best sushi and sashimi served on a special rotating belt; colour-coded plated formula along with a la carte menu. From 11:30 a.m. till 12:00 midnight. For more information call 4428-8698.

Pure Mediterranean

Daily: Le Central. Mediterranean specialties including a seafood market and antipasti station complemented by an extended beverage selection. From 12:00 noon till 3:00 p.m., and from 7:00 p.m. till 11:30 p.m. For more information call 4428-8772.

MÖVENPICK HOTEL DOHA Mövenpick Ice-Dreams

Daily: L’espresso Lobby Lounge. Treat yourself to one of the timeless creations of legendary Mövenpick ice cream. Each taste is a masterpiece of culinary inspiration, a work of true gastronomic art. Fashioned with Swiss perfection all the flavours, textures and colours are owed exclusively to natural ingredients. From 8:00 a.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4429-1111.

Travel The World On A Plate

Monday: Matador Night. Savour enticing Spanish delights with tapas, paella, live cooking and much more for QR 160 per person. Tuesday: Les Alpes. Enjoy the combination of the finest delicacies of France, Italy and Switzerland for an exclusive gourmet event for QR 160 per person. Wednesday: TemptAsian. Be tempted by authentic ingredients and aromas. Gather around the teppanyaki table, taste the creativity of the Japanese sushi or the tang of the Thai curry for QR 160 per person. Thursday: Deep Blue. A simply spectacular buffet of rich, fresh and succulent seafood and fish for QR 180 per person. Friday: Curry, Kare, Kari. Get ‘curried’ away from Southeast Asia to the north of India for QR 160 per person. Saturday& Sunday: International. Indulge in a colourful collection of international creations for QR 140 per person. For more information call 4429-1111.

PAPER MOON Taste of Milano

Sundays: Delight in the fresh flavours of Italian gastronomy with a special tasting menu created by Chef Fabrizio de Togni. Guests can sample and share Paper Moon-highlighted dishes such as Melanzanealla Parmigiana, Fritto di calamari e zucchini, Pappardelle Paper Moon, and more. Minimum for two people, QR 120 per person. From 6:00 p.m. till 8:30 p.m. For more information visit www.papermoondoha.com.

Lunedi Cinema

Mondays: Monday night is movie night! Savour enticing range of Italian a la carte menu while watching your all-time favourite movies, from classic, black and white films to world cinema in a relaxed, casual atmosphere. From 8:00 p.m. onwards. For the full movie schedule visit www.papermoondoha.com.

ORYX ROTANA Latin Night

Sundays: Choices. Every Sunday, enjoy a unique concept and indulge in a Latin American buffet for QR 200 per person including water, soft drinks and chilled juices, or QR 280 including unlimited selected house beverages. You can even try their premium package for QR 320 including unlimited sparkling vino, house spirits and selected digestives and aperitifs. From 7:00 p.m. till 11:30 p.m. For more information call 4402-3333 or email oryx.hotel@rotana.com.

Tapas Galore

Tues & Sat: The Cellar. For tapas lovers, the unlimited night is every Tuesday. Enjoy a selection of tantalizing tapas with unlimited selected vinos for QR 300. Or, enjoy the experience for QR 160 inclusive of unlimited tapas galore and soft drinks. For more information call 4402-3333 or email oryx.hotel@rotana.com.

Choices Goes Italian

Wednesdays: Choices. Every Wednesday, discover an amazing variety of regional dishes, so well-renowned for the use of fresh classic ingredients while enjoying the live cooking presented by the chefs. QR 200 including unlimited juices and soft drinks or QR 280 including unlimited selected house beverages. You can even try the premium package for QR 320 including unlimited sparkling vino, house spirits and selected digestives and aperitifs. For more information call 4402-3333 or email oryx.hotel@rotana.com.

QUISINE BY GUY SAVOY Dining Room

Weekly: The Pearl-Qatar, Parcel 4, Unit 109. The main dining room offers patrons three potential private dining areas which can each welcome up to eight guests. The private dining rooms can also be opened up to create one large room and/or two private dining rooms, depending on the needs of your party. For more information call 4002-7245 or email reservations@guysavoy.qa.

RADISSON BLU Raclette Night

Mondays: Picasso’s. Enjoy a selection of fresh-cut meats, vegetables and potatoes dipped in scrumptious raclette melted cheese! The perfect evening to share with friends for QR 60, starts at 6:00 p.m. For more information call 4428-1555.

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RENAISSANCE DOHA CITY CENTER Make Your Own Breakfast

Daily: Quick Bites. Continuing their highly-successful ‘Make Your Own’ selections, Quick Bites introduces ‘Make Your Own Breakfast’ with a selection of freshly-baked breads, cheeses and breakfast fillings, from QR 20. From 6:00 a.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4419-6100 or visit www.westenddoha.com.

Pizza & Pasta Express!

Daily: Cucina, The Italian Kitchen. Order any one of Cucina’s pizzas or pastas along with a side dish and one soft beverage for just QR 45! From 12:00 noon till 6:00 p.m. For more information call 4419-6100 or visit www.westenddoha.com.

THE ANVIL ROOMS Signature Steak

Daily: Tornado Tower. Choose a signature steak, a side, a sauce and a house mocktail or cocktail for QR 149. Available seven days a week from 5:30 p.m. till 6:45 p.m. For more information call 4499-0685.

THE DIPLOMATIC CLUB Qanun Player

Daily: The Grill Restaurant. Qanun is a string instrument played in much of the Middle East and is one of the richest-sounding Oriental musical instruments. Join in at The Diplomatic Club every evening for an alluring performance that will entertain you and enhance your appetite. For more information call 4484-7412.

Lobster The Way You Like It

Daily: Al Sayyad Restaurant. Pick out your lobster from the tank and have it prepared in your desired way -- poached, grilled, thermidor, or served over a simple salad. QR 220 per meal. Kids’ activity every Friday (bouncing castle, face-painting), from 12:00 noon till 4:00 p.m. For more information call 4484-7412.

THE ST. REGIS DOHA Burger & Pint Nights

Mon, Tues & Wed: Opal By Gordon Ramsay. Enjoy the tastiest and juiciest burger in Doha! Choose from lamb, fish, Wagyu beef or Opal’s vegetarian burger served with fluffy fat fries and homemade tomato sauce for QR100. From 6:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4446-0105 or email diningreservations@stregis.com.

Prestige Menu To Share

Mon-Sat: Gordon Ramsay. Indulge in an evening of epicurean delights as Michelin-starred chef Gilles Bosquet prepares a 7-course tasting menu for eight or more people. QR 590 per person (excluding beverages). From 6:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4446-0106 or email diningreservations@stregis.com.

Chef’s Table

Sun-Fri: Astor Grill. Book the Chefs Table and get up close and personal with Chef Roudy and the team in Astor Grill and enjoy the theatre of the kitchen! Choose from two tasting menus and the chef will create a bespoke experience just for you. QR 390 five courses food only or QR 500 five courses with sommelier’s selection. From 7:00 p.m. till midnight. For more information call 4446-0106 or email diningreservations@stregis.com.

SHARQ VILLAGE & SPA Sushi Mania

Mon & Wed: Al Dana. Choose your favourite from the freshlyprepared sushi, maki and sashimi menu twice a week. QR 185 per person with a 50% savings for children ages 6 to 12. From 6:30 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4425-6666.

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Food & Dining Listings THE RITZ-CARLTON Porcini Aperitivo

Daily: Porcini. The restaurant opens its doors early for an Italian aperitivo. Enjoy a complimentary aperitif on your selection of Italian bites. From 5:30 p.m. till 7:00 p.m., starting at QR 115. For more information call 4484-8514 or email umberto.panella@ritzcarlton.com.

Like In A Fairy Tale

Daily: La Mer Restaurant. Impress your loved one with a private dinner in Le Ciel, inclusive of a personalized selected food menu, soft beverages and water, plus private venue with breath-taking views. Starting from QR 3,000 per couple. For more information call 4484-8506 or email chiara.berton@ritzcarlton.com, or rc.dohrz.leads@ritzcarlton.com.

THE TORCH DOHA Tex-Mex

Wednesdays: Flying Carpet. Every Wednesday try Latino specialties with a wide selection of steaks, burgers and hot dogs for only QR 190 per person. From 7:00 p.m. till 10:30 p.m. For more information call 4446-5600.

Escape To India

THE FOUR SEASONS Sabato Italiano

Saturdays: Il Teatro. Over the last century, pizza and pasta have both become the quintessential Italian comfort food. So it’s no surprise that Il Teatro, as the pure Italian restaurant in town pays tribute to this legendary dish by offering Pizza and Pasta Night every Saturday with a variety of Chef Aldo’s fresh home-made pizzas, pastas and gelato. On the Sabato Italiano guests will enjoy the best-tasting, most versatile and convenient food there is…so eat, drink and go Italian! QR 160 with soft drinks and QR 250 with bubbly. Kids ages 4-12 enjoy a 50% discount off the price of their meals. For more information call 4494-8631.

DOHA MARRIOTT Gourmet Route

Thursdays: The Gallery. Enjoy something for everyone, with highlights from their specialty restaurants and experience a gourmet buffet taste sensation! QR 225 regular and QR 320 with bubbly. For more information call 4429-8499.

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA Seafood BBQ Night

THE RITZ-CARLTON Paella With Pepe

ORYX ROTANA Indian Flavours

Thursdays: Aramede. Every Thursday the hotel brings the streets of Italy to Aramede. Chefs preparing your pizzas and pastas at live cooking stations await you for a lavishing Italian night buffet. QR 150 per adult, QR 75 per child ages 6-12 years, and QR 299 per adult including house beverages. For more information call 4408-7777.

Thurs & Fri: Cigar Lounge. Enjoy the unlimited signature taste of Great Britain every Thursday and Friday from 5:00 p.m. till midnight for QR 55 per person. For more information call 4425-6666.

LA VARENNE Rôtisserie Night

WEEKEND CROWNE PLAZA DOHA – THE BUSINESS PARK La Dolce Vita

All You Can Eat Fish & Chips

Saturdays: Lagenda. Enjoy delicious Asian cuisine and free-flowing Tarik tea for QR 110 and QR 55 for children between the ages of 4 to 12 years. From 12:00 noon till 4:00 p.m. For more information call 4408-4333.

Sundays: Market by Jean-Georges. Start your week with your favourite burger, your favourite side dish and one amazing sundae from the selection for QR 110 per person. For more information call 4453-5135 or email bnfreservations.wdoha@whotels.com.

W DOHA Burger Night

Thurs & Fri: Al Seef. Embrace the outdoor vibe with a nice breeze while the weather is cool, overlooking the magnificent sea. Experience Western-style barbecue at its best with shisha. From 6:30 p.m. till 10:00 p.m. for QR 205. For more information call 4425-6666.

Fridays: Fish Market. Come and join in every Friday for a seafood BBQ dinner by the beachfront. Enjoy grilled fish and seafood freshly-prepared by expert chefs including live cooking stations. Starting at QR 280 for food-only and QR 350 with unlimited house beverage. From 7:00 p.m. till 12 midnight. For more information call 4484-4919 or 4484-4444.

HOLIDAY VILLA HOTEL Malaysian Hi-Tea

Saturdays: Rotisserie is a style of roasting where meat is skewered on a spit over coals or fire. This slow-cooking method allows the juices to remain, thus enhancing the flavours. It’s very popular in France and part of the culinary tradition, on Sundays Mum would buy a rotisserie grilled chicken for the family, Dad would roast and carve the chicken and the family would enjoy a splendid, hearty lunch together. The restaurant uses a ‘horizontal spit’ to do their cooking, allowing them to get the perfect crust on the outside and succulent meat on the inside. Join in every Saturday for Rôtisserie Night, with unlimited rotisserie meats, chicken, fish and classic sides. For more information call 4499-0680.

Mondays: Flying Carpet. Try their Indian food platters for only QR 180 per person including selected beverages. From 7:00 p.m. till 10:30 p.m. For more information call 4446-5600 or email reservation@thetorchdoha.com.

Barbecue By The Pool

Fridays: Choices. Turn your Friday evenings into a celebration of Indian flavours, colours and aromas for QR 160 per person including unlimited juices and soft drinks, or QR 240 including unlimited selected house beverages, or try their premium package for QR 290 including unlimited sparkling vino, house spirits, selected digestives and aperitifs. For more information call 4402-3333.

SHARQ VILLAGE & SPA Dining On Them

Thurs & Fri: Al Dana. Experience the best seafood and sushi at the only oceanfront dining venue in Doha. The outdoor beach terrace offers a more relaxed ambiance with stunning views of the water for a casual-dining gathering spot. This month, be among the three couples to win complimentary dining regardless of the amount of your bill. Winners will be announced at 9:30 p.m. on both evenings. For more information call 4425-6666.

Saturdays: The Living Room. Enjoy Spanish paella from the talented kitchen of Chef Pepe while chilling out on a beautiful Saturday afternoon overlooking the Gulf Sea. From 12:00 noon till 4:00 p.m. For more information call 4484-8525 or email rc.dohrz.leads@ritzcarlton.com.

W DOHA Burger Nights

Saturdays: Market by Jean-Georges. Choose your favourite burger, your favourite side dish and one amazing sundae from the selection for QR 110. From 6:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4453-5135.

Sushi Night

Saturdays: Spice Market. Add some flavour to the start of the week with Spice Market’s comprehensive sushi menu featuring assorted sushi, nigiri, maki and sashimi prepared with the secret condiments of three-Michelin star chef, Jean-Georges Vongerichten and his expert team. QR 230, from 6:00 p.m. till 10:30 p.m. For more information call 4453-5135.

RENAISSANCE DOHA CITY CENTER Seafood Night Thursdays: Crossroads Kitchen. Tiger prawns, mussels, tuna, oysters and the freshest sushi in town! Try the Mongolian stir-fry station where the chef mixes chicken, beef, lamb or seafood with crunchy vegetables. There’s also a delicious chocolate fountain and pastries for those with a sweet tooth. QR 225 including soft beverages and QR 285 including selected beverages. From 6:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4419-6100.

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THE TORCH DOHA Seafood Extravaganza

Thursdays: Flying Carpet. Every Thursday night find a selection of seafood for grilling, frying, wok and many more for only QR 250 per person including selected beverages. From 7:00 p.m. till 10:30 p.m. For more information call 4446-5600 or email reservation@thetorchdoha.com.

Arabian Nights

Fridays: Flying Carpet. Every Friday live the charm of the Orient and indulge in a variety of plates from different Arabic cuisines for QR190 per person. From 7:00 p.m. till 10:30 p.m. For more information call 4446-5600 or email reservation@thetorchdoha.com.

BRUNCH CROWNE PLAZA DOHA – THE BUSINESS PARK Carnival Brunch

Fridays: Rodizio. Enjoy the unique Brazilian atmosphere and visit Rodizio to experience the taste of carnaval in Rio. QR 265 per adult, QR 130 per child (ages 6-12 years). Children under six years dine free of charge. QR 333 per adult including house beverages. From 12:30 noon till 4:00 p.m. For more information call 4408-7777.

DOHA MARRIOTT Weekend Brunch

Fri & Sat: The Gallery. A culinary journey like no other, discover an array of live cooking stations and specialties from the Restaurant Gallery, 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, kounafa and more. Now offering a kids’ club zone with a special kids’ buffet and activities. From 12:30 noon till 3:00 p.m., QR 245 or QR 350 for bubbly brunch. For more information call 4429-8499.

The Late Brunch

Fridays: Marriott Open-Air Dining. Shaking up the Doha Brunch scene, join in for Doha’s first and only Late Brunch! Chill out and watch the sunset from your outdoor table with spectacular views across the city and the famous backdrop of the Doha skyline. With cool tunes from famous funky DJ Kinky D, a full grill, buffet and seafood selection, dance the night away under the stars! Including ‘all- in’ bubbly and BBQ for QR 380. From 6:00 p.m. till 10:30 p.m. For more information call 4429-8499.

See us online! om www.qatarhappening.c

THE GRAND HYATT Thai Brunches

Fridays: Isaan. Guests who prefer an authentic and spicy weekend meal can book a table at Isaan for a special Thai brunch every Friday from 12:30 noon until 4:00 p.m. The brunch includes dishes from all areas of Thailand, and the restaurant’s creative and innovative chefs will assist guests in choosing cuisine from various live cooking stations. A range of options are available; for example, the soft drinks brunch is available at QR 250, and the Moët brunch at QR 680. For more information call 4448-1250.

HILTON DOHA Friday Brunch

Mawasem. Indulge in a lavish family buffet. Mawasem’s Friday Brunch is well-known for its variety of dishes and the family-friendly environment, offering an exciting candy floss and ice cream section for the youngsters. QR 234 including soft drinks or QR 345 including bubbly. Children QR 149 inclusive of access to Kids Paradise. From 12:30 noon till 3:30 p.m. For more information call 4423-3112.

HOLIDAY VILLA HOTEL Dim Sum Brunch

Fridays: D’Chopstix. Enjoy a delicious dim sum brunch with family and friends along with free-flowing Chinese tea. QR 138 and QR 68 for children between the ages of 4 to 12 years. For more information call 4408-4888.

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA Grand Mussel Brunch

Friday: Belgian Café. Enjoy the most delicious mussels and Belgian house beverages in town for QR 275 from 12:30 noon till 3:30 p.m. For more information call 4484-4919 or 4484-4444.

We Love Saturday Brunch

Saturdays: Coral Restaurant. Join in at Coral as the hotel re-launches their favourite Saturday brunch featuring the great taste of Mexican, Greek and Belgian cuisines alongside the popular international and Mediterranean buffet and sushi bar. To make it more exciting for your little ones, they’ve put together a fabulous kids’ cooking class for free and other activities. QR 200 with soft beverages or QR 250 with unlimited house beverages. For more information call 4484-4919.

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA THE CITY Friday Brunch The Square. Every Friday celebrate the weekend with friends at The Square. Featuring four interactive kitchens specializing in cuisine 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. Priced at 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.

MÖVENPICK HOTEL DOHA Friday Family Brunch

Seasons Restaurant. The lively Seasons restaurant is all geared-up with more yummy additions to the Friday brunch. 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 desserts. Every Friday features an entirely new theme to amuse the little ones, from sly pirates and playful jungle monkeys to some very angry birds and the best of Disney’s classics. QR 215 per person with kids under the age of 12 dining free and from ages 12-16 enjoy a 50% discount. For more information call 4429-1111.

LA VARENNE French Country Brunch

Fridays: Tornado Tower. Their unique French Country Brunch is a success. Join in every Friday from 12:00 noon till 4:00 p.m. to indulge in their interpretation of a table-top brunch. Enjoy a full-course, all-you-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 all for QR 179. For more information call 4499-0680 or email reservations@lavarenne.qa.

ORYX ROTANA Jazzy Friday Brunch

Choices. Every Friday no one does it better! Brunch starts at 12:30 noon and ends at 4:00 p.m. offering a wide variety of food and beverages with live jazz music. (Last order for beverages is at 3:15 p.m.) QR 250 including unlimited juices and soft drinks or QR 325 including unlimited selected house beverages. For more information call 4402-3333.

THE DIPLOMATIC CLUB Spanish Brunch

Fridays: Enjoy a rich Spanish buffet including tapas and paella and many other traditional Spanish dishes for only QR 160 including water and excluding any other beverages. The Spanish Day on the February 14 will be themed for Valentine’s and a surprise awaits ladies and gents on that day. For more information call 4484-7412.

RENAISSANCE DOHA CITY CENTER Friday Brunch Ipanema Brazilian Churrascaria. Take a trip to Rio de Janeiro every Friday with a feast of Brazilian meats and the only authentic Brazilian band in Doha. Ipanema is the place to come for a super brunch, flambé desserts and live entertainment.QR 250 includes soft beverages and QR 320 includes selected beverages. Valet parking included. From 12:30 p.m. till 3:30 p.m. For more information call 4419-6100 or visit www.westenddoha.com.

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Food & Dining Listings Friday Family Brunch

Crossroads Kitchen. Offering a delicious international brunch of Chinese, Spanish, French, Italian, Indian, Arabic and more. Kids are kept entertained with games, face-painting and movies while you relax with a cocktail in hand. QR 225 includes soft beverages and QR 275 includes selected beverages Children ages seven to 12 dine half price, while children under age six dine complimentary. Valet parking included. From 12:00 p.m. till 3:30 p.m. For more information call 4419-6100 or visit www.westenddoha.com.

THE ST. REGIS DOHA Brunch

Fri & Sat: Opal by Gordon Ramsay. Experience the true British brunch experience with a selection of Gordon Ramsay signature breakfast items. Book a table on the terrace and enjoy the beautiful weather! Extend brunch with an exclusive buy-one-get-one happy hour from 4:00 p.m. till 6:00 p.m. QR 250 inclusive of soft beverages and QR 375 inclusive of grape, grain and sparkling beverages, from 12:00 noon till 4:00 p.m. For more information call 4446-0105 or email diningreservations@stregis.com.

Family Friday Brunch

Vine.Gather with family and friends and experience a lavish buffet with treats for everyone. Parents can relax with live reggae music and enjoy breath-taking views from the terrace. Entertainment for children is provided by The St. Regis Doha recreation team and includes fun games, face-painting and lots of creative activities. QR 295 per person with soft drinks and QR 395 per person including sommelier selection, from 12:30 noon till 4:00 p.m. For more information call 4446-0105 or email diningreservations@stregis.com.

HAKKASAN Tan Cha Friday Brunch

Hakkasan, the incredibly stylish Chinese restaurant offers a dim sum brunch every Friday. Eight different dim sum creations are served at your table along with a special dessert. QR 229, QR 399 or QR 600 depending on your choice of beverages. From 12:00 noon till 3:00 p.m. For more information call 4446-0170 or email reservation.hakkasan@stregis.com.

THE RITZ-CARLTON Brunch

Fridays: The Lagoon. Bring all the family for a relaxing weekend brunch. Live music complements the delicious buffet of Middle Eastern specialties and international live cooking stations. Children have their own junior buffet and entertainment. QR 250 per person including soft beverages, QR 335 per person including bubbly, or QR 375 for full brunch. Kids under the age of four can dine for free. QR 120 for kids ages 4-12 years old. From 12:30 noon till 4:00 p.m. For more information call 4484-8512 or email rc.dohrz.leads@ritzcarlton.com.

THE TORCH DOHA Friday Barbecue Bazaar Brunch

HILTON DOHA Business Lunch

Saturday Torch Brunch

KEMPINSKI RESIDENCES & SUITES

Flying Carpet. Choose from a wide selection of steaks, Oriental BBQ, fish, burgers and hot dogs for only QR199 net per person including selected beverages .From 12:00 noon till 3:30 p.m. Special rate of QR 95 for children between the ages of 6 and 12 only. For more information call 4446-5600 or email reservation@thetorchdoha.com.

Flying Carpet. Presenting an array of specialties from the Mediterranean, Asia and Latin America for only QR 199 per person including selected beverages. Served from 12:00 p.m. till 3:30 p.m. Special rate of QR 95 for children between the ages of 6 and 12 only. For more information call 4446-5600.

W DOHA Jazz Brunch

Fridays: Market by Jean-Georges. Enjoy a jazz brunch with live entertainment for QR 380 including selected house beverages or QR 290 including selected soft drinks. For more information call 4453-5135.

Friday Brunch

Spice Market. Asian street food meets slick city chic at the new up-market weekly Friday brunch. Dine in style while enjoying a backdrop of live, upbeat swing music courtesy of Doha Jazz. QR 380 including selected house beverages and QR 290 including soft drinks. From 12:00 noon till 4:00 p.m. For more information call 4453-5135.

WYNDHAM GRAND REGENCY Brunch

Fridays: Tangia Restaurant. Presenting a traditional Moroccan brunch buffet with a variety of tagines, salads and Moroccan bread. QR 149 per person, from 12:00 noon till 4:00 p.m. For more information call 4434-3203/3333 or email fzohrahalably@wyndham.com.

BUSINESS LUNCH CHOWKING

Sun-Thurs: Enjoy a delicious meal with the trusted Chowking flavours you love in under 30 minutes. From 1:00 p.m. till 3:00 p.m. at all locations. 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 The Deal Is Done

Sat-Tues: Aramede. Combine business with pleasure at Aramede restaurant and unwind from your heavy working hours with a healthy and quick business lunch. QR 95 per person including local mineral water. From 12:00 noon till 3:30 p.m. For more information call 4408-7777.

Sat-Thurs: La Sahtaine. Recharge from your morning in the office with a three -course set lunch at La Sahtaine. Nestled on the first level of the Hilton Doha, La Sahtaine is a cozy and elegant restaurant overlooking the beach. QR 88, from noon till 3:00 p.m. For more information call 4423-3333.

Sat-Thurs: Aroma. Stay healthy and select a low-calorie menu option from the revamped Business Lunch by Kempinski. Simple and delicious flavours, carefully selected fresh produce and creative preparation are the ingredients for the finest business lunch in Doha. QR 90 per person with a dessert-to-go option. From 12:00 noon till 3:00 p.m. For more information call 4405-3325 or email restaurants.doha@kempinski.com, or visit www.kempinski.com/doha.

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA THE CITY Brunch Sat-Thurs: The Square. The Square’s threecourse business lunch offers a selection of à la carte starters and main courses including locally-sourced seafood, prime cuts of meat, vegetarian selections and right-sized desserts. From 12:00 noon till 3:00 p.m. for QR 88. For more information call 4015-8888 or email doharestaurants@ihg.com.

LA CIGALE Business Lunch Formula

Daily: Le Central. Welcoming you and your corporate associates for a closed business deal with its specialty three-course Business Set Menu for QR 150.From 12:00 noon till 3:00 p.m. For more information call 4428-8772.

ORYX ROTANA X'Press Lunch & Dinner

Daily: The Cellar. Every day is quick-bite time and everyone is ready for it. Enjoy the Cellar’s 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.

RENAISSANCE DOHA CITY CENTER Express Lunch Sun-Thurs: Cucina, The Italian Kitchen. Choose from five entrees, five mains and three desserts made from the freshest Italian ingredients for QR 85. Valet parking included. From 12:00 noon till 3:00 p.m. For more information call 4419-6100.

THE ST. REGIS DOHA

Sun-Thurs: Opal by Gordon Ramsay. Be it with colleagues, clients or friends, enjoy a delicious three-course lunch. A different chef-selected menu available each week for QR 100, from 12:00 noon till 3:00 p.m. For more information call 4446-0105 or email diningreservations@stregis.com.

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Food & Dining Listings Express Buffet Lunch

Sat-Thurs: Vine. Enjoy an express lunch buffet in Vine Restaurant. An extensive selection of international cuisine and a scenic terrace to dine on, it’s the perfect lunchtime getaway. QR 150, from 12:30 noon till 4:00 p.m. For more information call 4446-0105 or email diningreservations@stregis.com.

Business Lunch

Mon-Sat: Al Sultan Brahim. Experience the taste of authentic Lebanese cuisine at the most famed Lebanese restaurant in Doha. Al Sultan Brahim offers a three-course lunch menu featuring a selection of mezze, fish of the day and desserts made from traditional recipes. QR 100 for three courses, from 12:00 noon till 4:00 p.m. For more information call 4446-0105 or email diningreservations@stregis.com.

W DOHA Express Lunch

Sat-Thurs: La Spiga by Paper Moon. Choose your favourite Italian starter, main course and dessert for just QR 95 per person, daily except Fridays. From 12:00 p.m. till 4:00 p.m. For more information call 4453-5135 or email bnfreservations.wdoha@whotels.com.

Express Lunch

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

SPECIAL LISTINGS ASPIRE KATARA HOSPITALITY Sukar Pasha Ottoman Lounge

April: Succulent spit-roasted whole lamb, well-marinated, seasoned to perfection and served with aromatic traditional Turkish rice for QR 99 per serving, starting at 7:00 p.m. For more information call 4408-2000.

Red Velvet Cupcakery

April: Katara Cultural Village. Decorate Your Own Cupcake! It’s fun and very educational, the best way to spend quality time for families with their children. Each plain cupcake goes with edible decorations for only QR 30. Apron and chef’s hat will be provided. April: Come and celebrate your children’s birthday party at QR 60 per child with their Decorate Your Own Cupcake birthday party package. Advance reservation is required. April: One cool promotion. Get a free small bottle of water with every purchase of an ice cream sandwich. For more information call 4408-0700.

El Cigar Lounge

April: Katara Cultural Village. Experience the vintage club car ride in full comfort and convenience to and from the Katara parking lot. It’s free, daily. For pick-up call 4408-0750 as soon as you arrive. April: High tea at El Cigar Lounge. Come and experience an assortment of exquisite delights, elegantly served in style. From 3:00 p.m. till 12:00 midnight. For more information call 4408-0750.

L’wzaar Seafood Market

April: Katara Cultural Village. Their special main course might be your first choice. Visit L’wzaar and relish their recommendation of the day. Available for lunch and dinner daily. April: With family and friends, come and celebrate any of your special occasions at L’wzaar and capture the moment for a happy and everlasting memory with a free snapshot featured in the L’wzaar Celebrant’s Book. April: Experience their Tandoori grill and Thai curry cooking styles for your fresh seafood. Other cooking styles are also available. Please ask the team for assistance. For more information call 4408-0710.

Chac’late

April: Katara Cultural Village. Enjoy their signature breakfast, Parisian or Chac’Late. Prices start from QR 30, available from 8:00 a.m. till 11:00 a.m. For more information call 4408-0733. April: Introducing their new Chac’Late Organic Egg Breakfast. Their newly-designed breakfast menu now offers this organic egg breakfast served fresh and healthy at QR 48. Available from 8:00 a.m. till 11:00 a.m. daily. April: Introducing their new Chac’Late Cheese Platter. Served with varieties of high-grade cheese along with homemade toast, marmalade and fresh grapes at QR 45, available daily. April: Enjoy 30% off on Amedei chocolates – a true Italian chocolate, available daily for the month of April. For more information call 4408-0733.

Shawarma Albisana

April: Katara Cultural Village. Enjoy your favourite chicken or beef shawarma with a cold soft drink for only QR 15. For more information call 4408-1400.

Kunafa Albisana

April: Katara Cultural Village. Offering the best traditional kunafa with Nabulsi cheese imported from Jordan for dine-in and takeaway at Kunafa Albisana in Katara. For more information call 4408-1200.

le Vesuvio

April: Katara Cultural Village. Check out the kids’ menu. le Vesuvio is happy to serve all of its guests, especially kids, with its healthful kids’ menu options. From 12:00 noon till 3:00 p.m. and from 7:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m., Monday to Saturday. April: le Vesuvio serves authentic Italian pizza from 12:00 noon till 11:00 p.m., Monday to Saturday. For more information call 4408-1500.

Aspire Grand Café

April: Aspire Park. Offers more than coffee and sandwiches. Choose from fresh sushi, soups and a wide selection of hot and cold beverages for dine-in and take-away. April: Enjoy healthy choices for breakfast while visiting the park. Fresh croissants, sunny-side up or omelette egg dishes and crêpes are available. For more information call 4408-1996.

Burgerry

April: Aspire Park. Introducing their new B. Bites, homemade chicken nuggets prepared from chicken breasts well-marinated with their special Burgerry infusion. April: Introducing the new Burgerry Fun Meal. Each meal comes in their beautifully-designed Fun Box with a fruit juice, a regular French fries and a choice of the B. Classic, B. Cheesy, Good Dog or their new B. Bites (served with special sauces). Don’t forget to look inside the box for a special gift. April: Due to high demand on weekends, Burgerry is now open from 11:00 a.m. till 2:00 a.m. on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays. From Sunday to Wednesday, it opens from 11:00 a.m. till 12:00 midnight. April: Take a bite of their ‘B. Special’, a perfectly-grilled, tender and juicy Certified Angus beef burger with melted American cheese, topped with lettuce, tomatoes, onions, pickles and their Special Burgerry sauce served on a deliciously soft buttered potato bun. Available in single or double patties, add fries and a drink to make it a meal! Open week-days from 11:00 a.m. till midnight and weekends 11:00 a.m. till 2:00 a.m. For more information call 4449-3958.

Kashta

April: Katara Cultural Village. Enjoy fresh air in one of their Kashta located by the beach and have the luxury to order and be served from the menu of any of your favourite food and beverage outlets at Katara. From 5:00 p.m. till midnight. For more information call 4408-2000.

! See us online om www.qatarhappening.c

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ctory rery cto ngreDi t Di anni urDi sta& Reod Fo American & Tex-Mex American Grill

International

Chinese

4411-0188

Chopsticks 4434-3333

Al Hubara

4485-4444

Chili’s 4466-0663

D’Chopstix 4408-4888

Al Liwan Restaurant

4424-2888

Ipanema 4419-6100

Royal Bafilyon

4411-4458

Al Matbakh Rooftop Grill

4433-6777

Johnny Rockets

4455-2792

Ruby Wu’s

4428-1428

Al Shaheen Restaurant

4485-4444

Latino 4485-4444

Wok of Fame

4413-4772

Animato 4496-6600

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

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

Agora 4445-5555 Al Balad

4491-8692

French

Al Bandar

4431-1818

La Sahtaine

4423-3333

Al Batross

4432-8888

La Varenne

4499-0680

Al Canteen

4433-6666

Al Mourjan

4483-4423

Le Relais de L’Entrecote 4495-3876 ext. 1411

Al Sayyad

4484-7420

Maxim 4428-1428

Al Sultan Brahim

4446-0105

Quisine by Guy Savoy

Al Tawash

4498-2002

Sormani 4495-3876 Ext. 3222

Argan 4433-6666 Burj Al Hamam

4495-3876

Istanbul Sultan Dining Restaurant 4468-5089 Khan Rafouk Tarab Café

4408-0840

Layali 4431-0005 Lebanese Shawarma

4466-2616

Liza 4495-3876 Majlis 4448-1234 Marmara Istanbul

4436-2947

Tajine 4435-5554 Tangia 4434-3333 The Tent Turkey Central

4432-8888 4443-2927

Indian

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 Nando’s

4409-4444

Delivery Hotline 4436-0606

The Dining Room (Al Najada Boutique Hotel)

4433-6666

The Dining Room (Fraser Suites Hotel)

4424-3444

The Grill

4448-1234

The Lagoon

4484-8000

Three Sixty 4446-5600

Biryani Hut

4464-1401

Bombay Baiti

4428-1428

Chingari 4428-1428 Idyl Factory

6674-1143

Royal Indian

4466-6876

Torch Tea Garden

4446-5600

Vine 4446-0105

Italian Bice Ristorante

4495-3876

Carluccio’s 4495-3876

Royal Tandoor Al Souq St., Jasra 4444-6151 Souq Waqif 4432-3244

Cucina 4419-6100 Di Capri

4428-8698

Saffron Lounge

3325-8919

Fabio’s Pizza

4416-5641

Sukh Sagar

4431-9172

II Teatro

4494-8888

Taj Rasoi

4429-8888

La Dolce Vita Italian Restaurant

4436-7991

La Veranda

4485-4444

linoem! s opn See au ing.c tarhap en www.q

4002-7245

Blue Brasserie Restaurant

Picasso’s 4428-1428 Porcini 4484-8000 Rocca 4448-1234 Romano’s Macaroni Grill

4451-7585

The Italian Job

4428-1428

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Japanese

Bar Food

Cafés

Neo 4432-2508

Belgian Café

4484-4444

Oishi Sushi

4442-8989

De Ozone

4470-8822

Alison Nelson’s Chocolate Bar

4495-3878 Ext. 1311

Sakura 4428-1428

Madison Piano Bar

4428-8888

Al Jalsa

4425-6666

Strata Restaurant & Lounge

4015-8888

Pool Bar

4484-4444

Al Kut Lounge

4434-3203

Sushi Minto

4467-5577

Shehrazad 4428-1428

Al Mandarine

4463-3748

Yen Sushi Bar

4428-8888

The Irish Harp

4485-4444

Atrium Lounge

4485-4444

The Lounge

4405-3325

Bab Al Baher

4423-3333

Mediterranean

Wahm 4453-5353

Aramede 4408-7777

Burgers

Bert’s Café 4495-3876 Ext 1381 Biscoti 4448-1282

Bistro Bistro

4428-1428

La Villa

4446-2222

American Grill

Le Central Restaurant

4428-8888

Chili’s 4466-0663

Medi @ The Village

4444-4700

Fuddruckers

4411-0188 4483-3983

Café De Biznez

4470-8822

Café Tasse

4444-7017

Café Vergnano 4495-3876 Ext. 2611

Mykonos 4484-4444

Hardee’s 4467-8750

Coffee Time

4466-7551

The Cellar

Johnny Rockets

4455-2792

Colombiano

4434-2753

4488-7008

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 Villaggio Mall MBCo (The Gate Mall) Al Emaadi Financial Square

4486-2264 4417-8132 4407-7130 4411-7224

Moka and Co

4458-3232

Orangery Café Troittor

4428-8888

Quick Bites

4419-6134

4428-1428

Sarab Lounge

4446-0105

JW’s Steakhouse

4429-8888

Savor 4408-7777

Le Grill

4484-7412

Shisha Garden

4428-8888

New York Steakhouse

4419-6100

Sky Lounge

4402-3333

Prime 4015-8888

Sugar and Spice

4411-4456

The Anvil Rooms

4499-0685

The Courtyard

4433-6444

The Butcher Shop and Grill

4413-5508

The Drawing Room

4433-6666

4446-2222

The Lobby Lounge

4484-8000

The Terrace Lounge

4433-6555

Torch Café

4446-5600

W Café

4453-5353

Ya Hala

4423-3333

4402-3333

TGI Friday’s

Seafood

Persian Grill @ The Village

4444-4700

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 The Pearl

4411-5063 4495-3876

Wok Mee Noodle House

4496-6600

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 4408-0710 Pampano 4495-3876 Pier 12

4428-1428

Steakhouses Bentley’s Grill

The Old Manor Steakhouse

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AHB Listings - April 2014 - FTP.pdf

3/24/14

11:23 AM

CMY

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Sports

s k c i P p o T ’s This Month

Losail International Circu

Track Day April 5: Track days are open days where the public can bring their own bike or car and ride on the Qatari track. The track is open to everybody.There is no need to register before; you can just come to the circuit on the same day. You need to bring your ID, driver’s license and registration of the vehicle. If the vehicle is not yours, you need to bring an authorization letter from the owner. Daytime: QR 350 for motorbikes, QR 500 for cars and QR 500 for a car co-driver. Registration times for bikes are 7:30 a.m. till 8:30 a.m., and cars 12:00 noon till 1:00 p.m. For more information visit www.qmmf.com.

Sharq Village & Spa Motion Restoration Therapy April 15-26: Six Senses Spa. Motion Restoration Therapy™ for pain relief and improved performance is a unique combination of detailed clinical chiropractic techniques, soft-tissue manipulation, finger pressure and joint movement, developed by internationallyrenowned neuro-muscular consultant Dr. Chet Collins. He can provide you with immediate pain relief and long-term solutions for your physical discomforts. For bookings call 4425-6999 or email reservations-sharq-spa@sixsenses.com.

Qatar Stars League The H.H. Emir Cup April 20-May 17: The 42nd Edition of the H.H. Emir Cup 2014 will be held across four stadiums and is set to take place from April 20 till May 17. Matches will be held at Al Arabi Sports Club, the Qatar Sports Club, Al Sadd Sports Club, and Khalifa International Stadium. For more information visit ww.qsl.com.qa.

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atarh tion! www.qthe latest informa for

QH April 2014- FINAL.indd 85

Qatar Motor And Motorcycle Federation Sealine Cross Country Rally April 19-25: The Sealine Cross Country Rally is one of the rounds of the FIA World Cup for Cross Country Rallies for cars. For more information visit www.qmmf.com or www.fia.com.

InterContinental Doha Fun On The Beach April 4: Register your team and participate in the hotel’s yearly Fun on the Beach event! Enjoy outdoor sports activities, food and beverage stations and live DJ entertainment. Doors open from 2:00 p.m. For more information call 4484-4919 or 4484-4444.

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Sports

A Night In The Ring As told to Jorge Granda

Famous international boxer Joe Calzaghe is visiting Doha this month to greet fans at a glamourous dinner at the Radisson Blu. QH speaks with the sportsman to find out more about his outstanding career. QH: Tell us about your trip to Qatar? JC: I’m coming to a do sportsman dinner event. I’ve been really looking forward to it to be honest. I was speaking with the organizers on the phone and they’ve told me the Qatari and expat crowd here are great so I’ve been looking forward to [it] a lot and seeing what sunny Qatar has to offer. QH: How did you get into boxing? JC: My dad pushed me into boxing. He had boxing gloves and a speedball in the sitting room. He would get the cushion off the settee and hold it against him. At the age of nine I could throw combinations, knew how to move, double jab. QH: What’s it been like now that you’re retired from the sport? JC: A mixture really. You lose the focus of

something you’ve done all your life, that’s always missing. But to retire undefeated and to be still looking not too bad is a bonus [Laughs]. Retiring at the top of the game was always my aim. But I’m happy.

boxers] for breakfast [Laughs]. But I’ve promised my kids and my Mum I won’t fight again QH: Any regrets over the course of your career? JC: I wish I would have gone to America earlier. I never went to America for ten years as a champion. But I did go and do it, and I did it across two weights, beating two legends – Roy Jones Junior and Bernard Hopkins. Also, not going to the 1992 Barcelona Olympics. I was the best choice to go but [for] reasons out of our control they [Welsh ABA] chose not to take me.

QH: Do you still stay fit? QH: Who has been your toughest opponent? JC: Of course I stay in shape – I love going the gym. I play a bit of football, I’m not too good though [Laughs], and also I still do a bit of boxing, training and running. QH: What do you miss most from the ring? JC: Kickin’ some butt! [Laughs] QH: Would you ever come out of retirement? JC: I’ve thought about it, when I’m bored mostly. I think I’ll do a bit of training and eat them [other

JC: Chris Eubank was my most difficult fight, not the toughest. It was my first world-title fight. Everybody up to that fight I had knocked them out in the first few rounds, and to fight Chris Eubank who had as many world-title fights as I had was very difficult. But Mikkel Kessler was my toughest fight – he’s a really good fighter. QH: Your Dad, Enzo Calzaghe, was your trainer. What was that like? JC: He was a lot tougher on me. We had a lot

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of ups and downs. It’s difficult for your trainer to also be your Dad. Usually it doesn’t work, but we managed to make it work and were very successful. I never lost with him in my corner. I lost a few amateur fights when I was very young but when he [Enzo] took over as main coach when I was 17, I never lost a fight again. QH: Your Dad is still training boxers. What happens if he trains someone to be better than you? JC: That’s not gonna happen is it? He’d love that though… [Laughs] QH: What’s the training like for boxers? JC: Tough – very tough. It’s a bit like Rocky [the movie], but without the raw eggs. I tried that when I was a kid after watching the movie… disgusting! [Laughs] A formidable adversary in the ring, Calzaghe is one of few in the world of boxing to claim retirement undefeated

Joe Calzaghe dons his suit and tie for a round in the guest-speaker's spotlight at the Radisson Blu this month

QH: You were recently a contestant on Strictly Come Dancing. How was that? JC: You learn something new about yourself all the time. I couldn’t believe how nervous I was when I took the floor for Strictly Come Dancing. When I was boxing I could walk out with 50,000 people gathered in the Millennium Stadium to fight Mikkel Kessler and I’d feel great . . . but on Strictly, I’m standing there wearing tight pants and Cuban heels, and freaking out. QH: The George Groves vs. Carl Froch re-match is happening on May 31, 2014. Who do you think will win? JC: It’s going to be an interesting fight. It could go either way. Froch was lucky to win the first fight and Groves was unlucky to get stopped. It shouldn’t have been stopped as it was a worldtitle fight and he [Groves] deserved the chance to carry on. QH: What can the crowd in Doha expect to hear from you? JC: The story of my career, an in-depth look at the world of boxing, a few funny stories about my fights and other boxers, and more. n A NIGHT WITH JOE CALZAGHE Date: Friday, April 11 Time: 7:30 p.m. Venue: Giwana Ballroom, The Radisson Blu Ticket Price: QR 350, inclusive of a three-course dinner Reservations: Call 5011-8694 Tickets can be purchased at The Radisson Blu or at joe.iloveqatar.net

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Sports

Golf Is My

Passion By Mai Akkad Images courtesy of the Qatar Golf Association

Yasmine Al-Sharshani, Qatari golf star and business entrepreneur shares her love for the sport on and off the greens.

atar’s first female golf player, Yasmine Al-Sharshani got into the game by chance. While she was on holiday in Egypt, enjoying her lunch in a restaurant that overlooks a golf course, she became hooked to play the game. “I love trying new and interesting things,” she says. When she went back to Doha she looked for golf courses and the Qatar Golf Association welcomed the young prodigy. She was only 11 years old when she started practicing the game.

Al-Sharshani is making a name for herself as one of the world's up-and-coming female pro-golfers

Al-Sharshani is already making strides in her budding sporting career. She won the 2011 Golf Championship in Doha and participated in the Arab Tournament in Morocco in the same year. She also won the Recognition Award from the Qatar Business Women Association for her project about women’s golf in Qatar. “This award is very special to my heart,” said the 27-year-old. “It shows evidence Qatari women’s success in various fields and that motivates me to continue pursuing my project.” Al-Sharshani’s project, which will mainly target women and children, will get underway in 2014. Al-Sharshani is pleased with the efforts invested in women’s sports in her country. “Qatar has developed significantly,” she said. “Today, women can participate in sports. Their achievements are sometimes more successful than men’s and that is thanks to the Emir who encourages Qatari women to not just participate in sports but other fields in life as well.” Despite her demanding schedule, the Qatar University graduate in Physical Education is currently doing her Masters in Olympic Events Management in London. As an active member in the sports sector in Qatar, Al-Sharshani urges young athletes in her country who have an idea in their sport to turn it into a business venture since Qatar generously supports its athletes. n

Yasmine poses with golf legend Tiger Woods at a recent tournament in Dubai

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Sports

Move Better,

Feel Better! By Jonny Parr Photography by Reine Atrach

A suitable warm-up is the key to correcting movement, relieving pain and improving overall results in or out of the gym. Jonny Parr from Absolute Fitness explains how to do it in the most productive manner possible.

arm-ups are generally perceived as not fun. This view is a great shame and almost universal now with gym-lovers, athletes and even coaches; but why is this the case? It appears the most widespread reason is quite simply boredom. Scenario 1 - people who train in gyms warm-up for five minutes by running on the treadmill, cycling on the bike or worse, ‘skiing’ on the elliptical trainer. Scenario 2 – people who play sports (i.e. football, rugby) warm-up by running around the field for five minutes and then perform a few ‘half-bothered’ static stretches. A second reason is a lack of knowledge. It makes absolutely no sense whatsoever to cycle for five minutes followed immediately by a 1-rep max bench press attempt. Your potential won’t be realized and more importantly, your shoulder girdle is going to suffer. These instances are all too common and what’s more, disadvantageous to your performance and well-being.

The Modern Day Warm-Up A warm-up creates a starting point for fitness or sporting sessions and refers to preparing you for performance. In fact, at Absolute Fitness (AF) we actually refer to a warm-up as ‘movement preparation’. During this time, you should aim to be as specific as possible in reference to the action/activity/exercises you intend to perform. Absolute Fitness trainer Ryan Bell demonstrates towel squats -- a commonly used warm-up technique

A warm-up can and should be fun! It should also be hugely productive in correcting specific

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Focusing on the muscle groups in his legs, Ryan uses a foam roller to implement self myofascial release

areas such as flexibility or mobility. At AF, there are five areas we consider during a warm-up. In total, this should take you no longer than 15 minutes. Trust me this little time spent on warming up correctly will pay dividends both in terms of your quality of life and performance. 1. SMR (Self Myofascial Release) Self Myofascial Release refers to massaging the muscles and is often known as ‘cheap man’s massage’. You will get some of the benefits of a qualified masseuse but without the awkward conversation and price tag! Techniques and tools vary but the intention always remains the same – to improve the quality of your muscle tissue; the exact nature of how this works involves pressing and creating tension on a particular or series of muscle groups. This then leads to muscle spindles relaxing (sensed by the Golgi tendon organ). This is very effective at relieving tension/knots within muscles that tend to develop through repetitive movement patterns and injuries. By applying Fascia Release techniques, you can significantly reduce and ease chronic injuries, recover quicker from exercise, improve your ROM (range of motion), and function better throughout everyday life and during all types of performance. There are various tools you can use to apply this method of self-massage. The foam roller

is, unsurprisingly, the most popular as it was purposely designed for this type of training. However you can also use a range of sports balls that are of different size and density. In fact, I would argue that in many circumstances this is actually better than the foam roller as you can manipulate the ball to suit your needs. 2. Raise And Mobilization ‘Raise’ refers to elevating body temperature, heart rate, respiration rate, blood flow and joint fluid viscosity. Mobilization refers to improving movement, range of motion and function of the joints. At AF, we target both raise and mobilization via specifically selected exercises that are performed in a back-to-back circuit format. This means we perform each exercise for a prescribed number of reps before progressing to the next. In essence, we raise the temperature of the body while improving joint health and integrity. We’ve found this saves us more time, all the while preparing the body for the subsequent demands of the session. An example of a routine we have clients perform is below and takes as little as three minutes. In this example we use nothing more than body-weight and a towel.

An instructional video of the routine can also be found on the Absolute Fitness YouTube channel – www.youtube.com/AbsoluteFitnessME. 1. Towel Dislocates x 5-10 reps 2. Towel Retractions x 5-10 reps 3. Towel Depressions x 5-10 reps 4. Towel W, L, Y, Ts x 5-10 each 5. Towel Push-Ups x 5-10 reps 6. Towel Squats x 5-10 reps 7. Towel Overhead Squats x 5-10 reps 8. Towel Overhead Reverse Lunges x 5-10 reps per leg 9. Towel Good Mornings x 5-10 reps 10. Towel Lateral Lunges x 5-10 reps per leg Check back next month for the final two areas of the warm-up up puzzle – muscle activation and potentiation. n

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Sports Listings RECOMMENDS

DOHA MARRIOTT Boxing

Daily: Join boxing classes and enjoy self-defense that is safe and most of all fun! Great for body-conditioning and weight loss, core strengthening and toning. Improve stamina, strength and agility. Discover balance and enhanced hand-eye coordination. De-stress and build self-confidence! Members QR 35/non-members QR 45. For more information call 4429-8520.

ONE OF A KIND SHARQ VILLAGE & SPA Aura Reading & Meditation

April 27-May 1: Six Senses Spa. Shivani Aldalja is regarded as one of the leading new-age well-being consultants in the Middle East and the Gulf peninsula. Find our which colour your aura has, what disturbances are there and how you can overcome them. Align your chakras and truly relax and unwind through meditation. For bookings call 4425-6999 or email reservations-sharq-spa@sixsenses.com.

EVERY WEEK THE FOUR SEASONS Power Yoga

Tues & Thurs: Fitness Center. Enrol in a 75-minute dynamic yoga practice which includes strengthening power positions to improve strength, balance and flexibility. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s energizing, detoxifying and also improves breathing capacity. Fee is QR 80.Tuesdays from 8:30 a.m. till 9:45 a.m. and from 7:00 p.m. till 8:15 p.m., and Thursdays from 8:30 a.m. till 9:45 a.m. For more information call 4494-8801.

Prana Flow Yoga

Sundays: Fitness Center. Enrol in a 75-minute class using gentle energy movements to help create a meditative experience which will reduce stress and allow the body to feel light and restored. Fee is QR 80. Sundays from 8:30 a.m. till 9:45 a.m. For more information call 4494-8801.

Boot Camp

Mondays: Fitness Center. Get your body back, work hard and gain more in this 60-minute session. Fee is QR 85. From 6:00 p.m. till 7:00 p.m. For more information call 4494-8801.

GOKULAM PARK DOHA Sports & Fitness

Daily: Health Club. Burn off your calories at the state-of-the-art health club with the latest equipment overlooking the city. Or, draw out toxins while soothing weary and aching muscles and joints in the sauna and steam room on the 12th floor. Opening hours are Sunday to Thursday from 6:00 a.m. till 11:00 p.m., and Friday and Saturday from 8:00 a.m. till 8:00 p.m. For more information call 4470-8822/33/55, or visit www.gokulamdoha.com.

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA Wing Chun

Mon &Fri: Wing Chun is widely accepted as the most effective martial art and taught to special forces and military personnel across the world. The most famous figure of Wing Chun is Bruce Lee. Techniques learned will give you practical skills on how to protect yourself through self-defense disciplines. Suitable for all ages. Parents and children can enjoy this program and its benefits together. Mondays from 8:00 p.m. till 9:30 p.m., Fridays (kids and adults class) from 1:00 p.m. till 2:30 p.m. For more information call 4484-4852.

Pilates Sculpt

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

Boxing Fitness

Fridays: 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 4:00 p.m. till 5:00 p.m. Members QR 30 / non-members QR 50. For more information call 4484-4852.

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Activities & Clubs gorized d s are cate All listing Inclusion is limiteh per hotel. ility of space, wit . to availabiven to advertisers priority g

Ashtanga Yoga

Mon, Wed & Sat: This intense form of yoga involves standing and seated poses, back bends and inversions. This vigorous, athletic style of practice appeals to those who like a sense of order and who like to do things independently. This class is 75-minutes long, Mondays and Wednesdays from 8:30 a.m. till 9:45 a.m., and Saturdays 3:30 p.m. till 4:45 p.m. Members QR 45 / non-members QR 65. For more information call 4484-4852.

LA CIGALE Ozone Gym & Spa

Daily: Be part of Ozone Gym and Spa’s newly-launched fitness classes (Power Toning, Ultimate Core, Explosive Cardio and soon, Spinning). Fee per class: QR 60 per person. Reservations are required for some classes. For more information call 4428-8101.

RENAISSANCE DOHA CITY CENTER Yoga Classes Daily (upon request): Balance your mind and body at your choice of time and day. QR 65 for 60-minute session, available seven days a week. For more information call 4419-6090 or visit www.westenddoha.com.

THE DIPLOMATIC CLUB Pilates

Sun, Mon & Wed: Pilates is the system of strengthening and stretching exercises designed to develop the body’s core, mobilize the spine and build flexibility. It teaches you how to train your mind and build symmetry and coordination in the body. From 5:00 p.m. till 5:45 p.m. For more information call 4484-7450, or email spa.recreation@dclub.com.qa.

Zumba

Sun, Mon, Tues & Thurs: A global lifestyle brand that fuses fitness, entertainment and culture into an exhilarating dance party workout! It’s a combination of different types of dance styles from hip-hop and Latin to house and even contemporary! This 50-minute cardio workout will have something for everybody! Sundays from 6:15 p.m. till 7:15 p.m. Mondays from 6:15 p.m. till 7:15 p.m., Tuesdays and Thursdays from 5:00 p.m. till 5:45 p.m. For more information call 4484-7450, or email spa.recreation@dclub.com.qa.

Aqua Dance Fitness

Sat & Tues: Captivates the joy of movement and the expression of life through integrating world rhythms and music. The fusion of aquatic fitness with dance-based choreography will give you a movement base free from boundaries. Saturdays and Tuesdays from 10:00 a.m. till 10:45 a.m. For more information call 4484-7450, or email spa.recreation@dclub.com.qa.

Bike Riding

Sailing

Bowling

Regatta Sailing Academy 4442-4577 or www.regattasailingacademy.com

The Corniche Aspire Park

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

Doha Sailing Club 4443-9840 or www.qmsf.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

Ice-Skating

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

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QH Sensations

RECOMMENDS

your Tell us what you think! Send ing.com reviews to info@qatarhappen

ick! P ’s r o t i d E

Chantelle Netflix’s House of Cards

Ashlee J’Adore by Christian Dior Well, it’s official. This is my new signature fragrance. Light, sweet, indelibly feminine and not too overly floral, I received this bottle of brilliance as a recent birthday gift from my roommate. Featuring notes of ylang-ylang plucked from Africa’s Comoro Islands, its delicate bouquet is blended with heavier notes of Damascus rose and sambac jasmine for a slight tinge of musky mystery. I love it – I daub it on my pulse points and spray it all over my body in a light cloud that goes the distance and lasts the day. Pick up your own bottle at most beauty outlets here in Doha – Sephora is a good bet – for QR 315.

Srimani Party Favours If you’ve ever wanted to have unique packaging or branding for your party or event, we’ve found a place that creates custom gift boxes for any occasion – baby showers, weddings, birthdays and anniversaries. Gulf Publishing and Printing Company (Al Rayya) can create high-quality custom-made packaging done at a reasonable price for your private event or function. They can even create bespoke designs on boxes for chocolates, cakes, gifts and party favours. Talk about a keepsake! For more information call 4405-8513 or 5534-6071.

Chet

The second season of the acclaimed Emmy Award-nominated, and Golden Globe-winning show is now available online – so stock up on your popcorn, because this one is a doozy. It’s a one-of-a-kind political drama starring Kevin Spacey that will leave you breathless, shocked, and amazed at just how far one can go in the pursuit of power. Whether you binge-watch on Netflix, or stream the season one episode at a time, House of Cards is sure to entertain you this month. Subscribe to Netflix for around QR 28 a month.

Jorge

Nescafé Dolce Gusto

Black XS by Paco Rabanne

I’m one of those people who can’t start the day without my coffee. I’m a self-confessed caffeine addict, downing five to six cups a day. Nescafé’s Dolce Gusto is one of the best inventions for coffee lovers like me – easy to operate with high-quality tasting coffees that come in a variety of blends and flavours. Available at Lakeland, Home Centre and most home supply stores starting from QR 745 to QR 972, depending model size.

The first time I smelled Black XS by Paco Rabanne was nine years ago. I immediately fell in love with the fragrance and it’s been some time since I owned a bottle, until I got one from my Mom recently as a gift. It’s still the most delicious cologne a man can wear; when I go out and have it on everyone praises how good I smell. It’s provocative and, for me, a symbol of masculinity. Available for QR 224 where most fine fragrances are sold.

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Special Promotion

Teenage Talent The Kempinski Grand & Ixir Hotel Bahrain City Centre becomes the first hospitality outlet in Bahrain to introduce a Teen Concierge program.

empinski Bahrain has begun an innovative concept. To enhance guest experiences Kempinski introduced Teen Concierges at the beginning of the year. The Teen Concierges work during weekends when the hotel is busy with family guests. During hectic check-in and check-out periods some queues might form and the lobbies are full of activity. The teens intermingle and chat with the guests, entertain children, advise them of what’s showing in the cinema and what’s happening in the country; and give wide-ranging information about Bahrain, such as what to see and do on the island. Being natives they know their country and of course speak the local language, which is important as so many of the hotel’s guests are Arabic speakers. “We are absolutely delighted to have launched the Teen Concierge concept as the first hotel in Bahrain and also the first Kempinski in the world, and we are very

proud of that,” says Puneet Singh, General Manager of Kempinski Grand & Ixir Hotel Bahrain City Centre. “Benefits of this pioneering initiative are many-fold: one of them is the enriched guest experience that strengthens our position as the leading family hotel in Bahrain. The initiative also helps us to project ourselves as an employer of choice for the locals. We are happy to help the future generation to gain valuable and beneficial work experience in the fastest growing industry in the kingdom.” The concept is an ongoing venture to augment guest services and provide the guests with fun, young local contacts. The work contracts with the teens are open-ended, they choose their working hours, and will stay in their roles as long as they want to. The concierges are expected to change once in a while, due to the fact that they are students. The teens will

Skill-building for the future is the hallmark of the Teen Concierge program

eventually move onto higher education, which obviously opens the positions to other students. Kempinski attended a government organized Career Day in October 2013 where they met students from various schools. The hotel introduced the project to the students, gauged their interest and then invited them with their parents to attend a presentation at the hotel,

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Inside one of the hotel's luxurious suites

The Teen Concierge team, at your service!

where the initiative was explained in detail. Following that the students did a couple of days of job observation at the hotel, to ensure that this is what they really wanted to do. Finally the teens attended an intense custom-designed orientation course made by the hotelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s training department specifically for them. Kempinski Bahrain currently employs six Teen Concierges. Feedback from both guests and the teens themselves has been extremely positive. n For more information call +973-1717-1000 or visit www.kempinski.com/bahrain.

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QH Sensations

s t e G H Q ! d e r e p Pam By Ashlee Starratt and Jorge Granda Photography by Srimani Welagedara Additional images courtesy of La Cigale Hotel

We take a break from the stresses of the work-day and hit up Ozone Spa in La Cigale Hotel for some well-deserved rejuvenation.

f you’ve never been to La Cigale’s Ozone Spa, it’s a hidden gem that’s worth booking ahead for. Sharing floor-space with the hotel’s massive indoor pool (think glistening water and loads of natural sunlight) and their spacious gym and exercise facilities, Ozone Spa is a one-stop shop for wellness junkies. Bust a move on the elliptical, swim a few laps in the pool, then top it off with a toe-curling relaxation massage. Today we’re here to try a few of their signature aesthetic treatments.

Women’s Signature Hammam Body Treatment This isn’t my first time on the hammam wagon. I’ve had a few at other outlets around town, and to be honest, they aren’t always my cup of tea. The steam and the intensity of the heat can be overpowering, and I’ve never been one to sweat it out very well. But after experiencing the hammam at Ozone, I feel more open-minded to its benefits. Steeped in tradition, a hammam is the act of washing and scrubbing the entire body in a sauna-like environment to open all the pores, releasing toxins and other impurities that affect our skin and our health. The hammam treatment room at La Cigale is opulent; nestled at the end of a small hallway it’s a large mosaic-tiled space with high ceilings, a central shower

Forget your cares for an hour or two and relax with an indulgent massage

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Ozone Spa's hammam room is one of the largest we've been in -- talk about glam!

pedestal and luxurious alcoves dotted around the perimeter of the room where guests can languish under the steam. The size of the space makes the heat and humidity less cloying and smothering, so that’s a big plus point. My therapist Khaoula is Tunisian and is wellversed in the ways of the hammam. First she has me tuck back into one of the alcoves to let the steam from the vents above penetrate my pores. Bottles of cold water are provided – which I’ve never had offered during a hammam before and I guzzle mine back as the sweat starts building up. Next she lathers me up from head to toe with traditional Moroccan soap, infused with olive oil and calming eucalyptus to moisturize the skin. After a quick rinse she has me lay down on a toweled pad on the shower pedestal and using a glove, exfoliates all the dead skin cells from my arms, back, legs and chest. This is followed by another moisturizing session with a creamy lotion infused with rose-water and menthol by Matisse. The fragrance is gorgeous and the tiny granules of menthol have a cooling effect on my entire body, like someone took an ice cube to my skin – an amazing feeling after the initial steam and humidity. Khaoula washes my hair and completes the treatment with another rose-water-infused Matisse body lotion. I leave feeling brand new and pink like a baby, with skin soft to the touch and a calming sense of clean refreshment.

Volcanic Stone Healing Massage The last time I had a massage involving hot elements rubbed against my body, I have to admit it was a very unpleasant experience. I won’t mention where I had it out of respect to the outlet, but it did put me off receiving any massage involving hot stones, towels, or herbs wrapped in hot towels. But, when the opportunity presented itself to try the volcanic stone healing massage at Ozone, I decided to give it another chance. This is a full-body massage with medium to soft pressure and the massage therapist uses heated volcanic stones which relaxes body muscles and soothes stress. The stones are placed on the body’s chakra points (where energy flows), while other heated stones are used as well to perform the massage techniques. Before the treatment starts I tell the therapist about my last experience and that I really don’t enjoy very hot objects on my body. He’s very accommodating and understanding. Of course the essence of the massage is the hot stones, so I’m prepared for some level of heat. Fortunately for me the technique applied is surprisingly pleasurable and relaxing and my initial opinion on these types of treatments changes dramatically. My therapist first starts by cleaning my feet and covering my body with a warm towel. He then applies cream to the areas he‘s about to work on, which are my back and neck. He then proceeds to

massage me with the stones; they’re more than warm, but not unpleasantly hot and the feeling is quite soothing and relaxing. Before massaging my legs he places three stones on my back and leaves them there. When I ask why, he explains it’s because those are my chakra points and it will help the energy to flow more easily throughout my body and de-stress my mind and muscles. It doesn’t make much sense to me at first but after a minute or so, amazingly, I feel much more relaxed and a bit sedated. He leaves the stones on my back while he massages my legs, after removing them I turn around and he applies the same techniques to my chest and abdomen. The most sublime part of the whole experience is when he gently rubs the stones over my face – I almost fall asleep. Overall the treatment is highly pleasurable and enjoyable; the room is intimate and clean and my therapist is respectful and knows his craft. This won’t be the last time we book into the Ozone Spa for a work-day break! n OZONE SPA Location: La Cigale Hotel, Level M2 Timings: 9:00 a.m. till 10:00 p.m., daily Price: QR 500, 45-minute, Women’s Signature Hammam Body Treatment QR 350, 45-minute, Volcanic Stone Healing Massage Contact Info: Call 4428-8888 or email info@lacigalehotel.com

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QH Sensations Listings RECOMMENDS

THE DIPLOMATIC CLUB Reflexology Treatment

Daily: Rebalance the harmony to the body by cleaning congested reflexes and help boost the immune system to assist with recovery from illness, boost circulation, increase energy levels and improve mental and emotional processes. It’s very relaxing and creates a feeling of well-being. For more information call 4484-7450.

Hot Stone Treatment

Daily: Heated black stones are used to massage the whole body, releasing deep-seated tension, working to relieve stress at the deepest level, as well as on the body’s energy channel. A holistic and energizing therapy for body, mind and spirit. For more information call 4484-7450.

Swedish Treatment

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA Shiatsu Massage

Daily: The Bay Club. A Japanese pressure-point technique massage based on the concept of acupuncture. Thumb pressure is applied to various body points along energy pathways. Enhance the flow of chi (life-force energy) in your body. With the best therapists in town available only at The Bay Club, they ensure you’ll enjoy your best massage ever. Treatments start from QR 180 for a 30-minute massage and QR 300 for a 50-minute massage. For more information call 4484-4852 or email bayclub.icdoha@ihg.com.

CROWNE PLAZA DOHA – THE BUSINESS PARK Signature Treatments

Daily: The Spa. The Diamond treatment is a sparkling, invigorating ritual to revive your senses, awaken your spirit and detox your body. The Pearl treatment is soft, smooth and sleepinducing, calming your senses, levelling your anxieties and clearing your mind. QR 350 for 60 minutes, plus free access to the swimming pool, jacuzzi, sauna and steam-room. QR 450 for 90 minutes, plus free access to the swimming pool for two people. Book six treatments and get one complimentary. For more information call 4408-7620.

DOHA MARRIOTT Fantasy Tan Spray

Daily: The Spa. Fantasy Tan is a fake tan application using a spraying technique for a fast and effective application of colour, giving the appearance of a golden, natural and even-looking tan without the damaging effects of the sun. The desired results are seen within eight hours and the tan lasts for approximately 5 -7 days. Full-body, 45-minute spray tan application is QR 280. For more information call 4429-8520.

Pevonia Facial & Massage

Daily: The Spa. Formulated to deliver accelerated visible results, Pevonia Essential Treatment keeps skin looking porcelain smooth and youthfully radiant. Special offer of a 20% discount when combining a high-performance Pevonia facial with any full-body massage. For more information call 4429-8520.

LPG Slimming Machine

Daily: The Spa. Adored by stars all over the world and well-known to the general public, the Cellu M6 Keymodule (the lipo-massage machine) is the new alternative to invasive methods. Special introductory offer: one LPG treatment plus 20% discount on a personal training consultation with Adamou. Purchase a course of five sessions and get the sixth treatment valued at QR 300 for free, plus one personal training consultation with Adamou valued at QR 150, plus one Total Workout class valued at QR 35 for free, plus a 20% discount on one seaweed wrap and one coffee wrap. For more information on all treatments call 4429-8520.

THE FOUR SEASONS Spring Indulgence

Daily: The Spa. Mineral salt body scrub and Balinese massage that relaxes the body, mind and spirit, followed by a full-indulging facial. QR 1,295 for two and a half hour treatment. For more information call 4494-8802.

Anti-Aging Rose Crystal Samadara Facial

Daily: The Spa. Re-awaken the skin with timeless anti-aging techniques. The skin is visibly transformed with increased firmness and elasticity, producing a youthful glow and reducing fine lines. QR 2,100 for an hour and a half treatment. For more information call 4494-8802.

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA Swedish Massage

Daily: The Bay Club. A classic full-body massages that works predominantly with the muscles, soft tissues and joints, utilizing long, rhythmic strokes. For more information call 4484-4852 or email bayclub.icdoha@ihg.com.

Daily: Effective in ensuring a fast recovery from muscular strain this massage increases circulation, stimulates skin and soothes the nerves. An excellent treatment for both mental and physical stress. For more information call 4484-7450.

SHARQ VILLAGE & SPA Detox Delight

Daily: Six Senses Spa. A treatment that will cleanse your body from the inside to give you that wonderful glow as it gets rid of unwanted toxins. Enjoy a 30-minute body scrub with black sesame blended with their alluring Six Senses Spa oil followed by a 50-minute full body signature massage. To finish, you’ll be served with a detox juice containing carrots and ginger. QR 750 for 80 minutes. For more information call 4425-6999.

Hammam Ritual

Daily: Six Senses Spa. A combination of two favourites, you’ll feel rejuvenated, fresh and silky-smooth with this package. The hammam ritual allows you to experience their Moroccan hammam that includes a 10-minute relaxation in the steam-room, a ritual cleanse of the whole body with Moroccan black soap and loofah, followed by a full-body oil-based massage of medium pressure that releases your stress and tension. QR 1,100 for 100 minutes. For more information call 4425-6999.

RENAISSANCE DOHA CITY CENTER Anti-Aging Treatment Daily: Saray Spa. Age-defying body rehydrating treatment of 80 minutes, along with a 25-minute body scrub treatment for only QR 650. For more information call 4419-6090 or email sarayspadoha@renaissancehotels.com.

Spring Special

Daily: Saray Spa. Indulge with a 55-minute Phytomer facial along with an express-manicure and pedicure with paraffin treatment for only QR 569. For more information call 4419-6090 or email sarayspadoha@renaissancehotels.com.

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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

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

Restaurant Chowking (An Associate of Ahmed Hassan Bilal Group) Road 4437 1212 hAl Khor 4411 8816 / 4411 8817 hAl Saad St. 4431 4411 hMamoura 4486 6077 hHoliday Villa 4411 5225 / 4411 5335 hSalwa

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QH Sensations Experience ns ing destinatio ome n e p p a h c ti s s nta Escaping to fa rld does wonders. Here are o around the w

New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival April 25-May 4: USA

Nowhere will you find a more ingrained music culture than in the home of jazz – New Orleans. This year’s fourth anniversary line-up promises to be a musical Mardi Gras of acts. On the docket are Led Zeppelin front-man Robert Plant and his new band The Sensational Space Shifters, plus John Fogerty, Alabama Shakes, Vampire Weekend and the often imitated but never duplicated Chaka Khan. Get your ear to the ground and click on www.nojazzfest.com to scoop tix.

See our full festival feature on page 24!

Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix April 4-6: Bahrain

They don’t call this tiny island nation the home of motorsport in the Middle East for nothing! Drawing record crowds of speed-freaks each year, the 2014 Grand Prix marks the 10th anniversary of the race held in the MENA region. In addition to cars burning rubber on the track, there will be a host of family events and activities for young and old alike, while millions watch the tournament televised live across the globe. Be sure to get your tickets early, ‘cause they’ll go quickly, and visit www.bahraingp.com to book your seats in the fast lane.

Athens International Film Festival April 11-17: Greece

'Get him to the Greek’ takes on a whole new meaning at Athens’ premiere celebration of celluloid. Submissions from new and emerging local and international artists and filmmakers span everything from feature-length productions, to animated shorts, to hard-hitting documentaries. With screenings held at the iconic Athens Cinema, the vibe in the Greek capital during film-fest week makes for the perfect spring break atmosphere of star-scoping and cocktail-sipping. For more info on this year’s line-up check out www.athensfilmfest.org.

Songkran

1,000 Drawings April 19: The Netherlands

This art-scene exhibition’s motto is ‘Draw anything, with anything, on anything’, and that’s just what dozens of artists convene on Amsterdam’s De Brakke Grond to do. A creative charity fundraiser, each drawing is then sold in a gallery exhibition for ten Euros in support of a different artistic charity each year. The gallery showing is open to the public, and those with an eye for appreciation can visit www.1000drawingsamsterdam.nl to scope out previous year’s contributors.

Apri 13-15: Thailand

One of Southeast Asia’s most popular festivals, ring in the Thai New Year all over the country as mountain villages, beach-side tourist towns and city metropolises get drenched. Meant to cleanse the bad energy from the past year, locals and visitors spray each other in what is undoubtedly the world’s biggest water fight – so, prepare to get wet! There are also parades, food festivals and beauty pageants for a mix of colourful, wet ‘n wild fun. Pack your bathing suits and go to www.songkran2014.com for all the info.

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QH Sensations

An Arabian

Paradise By Jorge Granda Images courtesy of Emirates Palace

If you’re in the market for a luxurious break, hop a flight to Abu Dhabi for a stay at the iconic Emirates Palace. QH books in for the weekend and explores the many wonders of this exclusive Arabian destination.

hen I received the invitation to visit Emirates Palace in Abu Dhabi and experience everything the hotel has to offer I’m more than happy to accept. I’ve heard marvellous things about the place and I can’t wait to hop on the plane and start my idyllic stay at this fantastic resort. I arrive in Abu Dhabi on a Thursday night, and while driving through the city it’s evident that the Emirati capital isn’t as mesmerizing as Dubai, but it does have its particular charm. It’s definitely not as developed as its brother emirate – or even Doha for that matter, and the amount of skyscrapers and over-the-top architecture is much less. This makes the Emirates Palace stand out as some sort of spectacular mirage in the middle of the city. As we drive towards the main gate, I’m stunned at its sheer expanse. It is what it is – a beautiful, formidable palace on its own stretch of private beach. As of today, Yas Island

and the Emirates Palace emerge as the two most iconic landmarks of the UAE capital. Once inside the hotel I’m taken aback by how huge it is – like a massive shopping mall, with plenty going on just in the lobby itself. It hits me then that it will be impossible to explore the entire property in a mere two days. The check-in is fairly fast and uncomplicated, with the hotel divided in two wings, East and West. The Emirates Palace offers 302 grand rooms and 92 suites adorned with opulent upholstery and craftsmanship. A butler escorts us to our room in one of the Khaleej Suites in the West Wing, and once inside he explains to us in exhaustive detail every single amenity inside the space. The suite resembles a very luxurious apartment in New York or London, although the Arabic décor is palpable in every detail from the furniture, to the

Enjoy service like a sultan in absolute luxury

lamps and overall ambiance. The lounge area is spacious, as is the bedroom – the bed is worthy of a king and there’s a big flat-screen TV on the wall right in front of it. The suite also has an outdoor terrace large enough to host a small party of 15 people. All in all the room is everything you can expect from such a lavish property. After unpacking, my friend and I decide to go for dinner and drinks. We start our evening in BBQ Al Qasr. The restaurant is a relaxing al fresco venue right overlooking the tranquil Arabian waters. The breath-taking view of the sea sets the perfect mood for a romantic, gourmet evening. The outlet offers an extensive a la carte menu which includes, as expected, a large selection of grilled dishes and feeling peckish,

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The palatial grounds approaching the hotel are as seven-star as they come

The resort even boasts its own theatre auditorium seating up to 1,100 people

Soak, indulge and unwind in quarters fit for a king

we go for the chicken and beef barbecue. The food is superb, and both varieties of meat are cooked to perfection. Both are flavoursome and have that undeniable taste of Arabic spices typical of most regional Gulf dishes. Although the service isn’t as prompt as we would like, the waiters are attentive and polite, as well as extremely knowledgeable about the menu. The atmosphere is splendid; it’s really a terrific restaurant with an elegant, tropical ambiance. It felt like I was having dinner in a resort in the Maldives, instead of on the shores of the Gulf. After dinner we head to Etoiles, one of the resort’s exclusive lounge outlets. Modern and classy-chic, it’s located on the lobby level and offers a sophisticated indoor and outdoor seating area overlooking the beach. The décor is decadent, the music pumping, and the crowd are as trendy as they come. The downside is there’s a 200 AED entry fee per person, un-inclusive

of any drinks or snacks. In my opinion this fee shouldn’t be applicable for hotel guests, considering the hotel is already pricey enough. Apart from that we really enjoy ourselves; it’s a sublime spot to while away a night on the town. The next day we wake up early and head to Le Vendome Brasserie for breakfast. The restaurant has particularly high ceilings and is super-spacious, with comfortable indoor and outdoor seating. We sit outside, the area being like a magnificent terrace. I would be the happiest man in the world if I could wake up every day and have breakfast in this majestic atmosphere. It’s the perfect start to any day, with a varied buffet and the quality of the food up to the highest possible standards. Post-brekkie, it’s time to head to the pool and relax. The hotel features two lushly-landscaped swimming pools and terraces – one to refresh

and relax, and one perfectly-designed for adventure and family fun. The adventure pool is located along the West Wing where there are slides and plenty of other fun activities, especially for the kids. We couldn’t find chairs by the adventure pool so we took a club car and drove to the relaxation pool located in the East Wing. Both are astonishing pools, with plenty of green areas and palm trees all around – it’s like being in the Caribbean. There’s room for improvement when it comes to the service by the pool, but this isn’t an impediment to having an extraordinary day under the magnificent sun and surroundings. Staying at the Emirates Palace has been the most delightful experiences I have had so far this year. n EMIRATES PALACE Location: West Corniche Road, Abu Dhabi, UAE Room Rate: 16,500 AED per night, Khaleej Suite Contact Info: Call +971 2690-9000, email reservations@emiratespalace.ae or visit www.kempinski.com/en/abudhabi

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QH Sensations

Well Seasoned Words and images by John Hunt

We spend the night at the most luxe address in the most cosmopolitan of cities to revel in the creature comforts of The Four Seasons Hotel London at Park Lane.

nother brutal Doha summer looms and – for those who have the means to make it feasible – thoughts turn to escaping the heat and heading for milder climes. London remains a hugely popular destination, mainly due to the unending list of things to do, temperate climate, and also the range of accommodation options available.

hotel. We were escorted to our room by one of the reception staff and shown around. Normally this is pretty redundant but in this case, necessary, as our room was in fact a beautifullyappointed suite – and an enormous one at that.

Located on the fringes of London’s exclusive Mayfair area, the hotel is tucked a block back from the busy main road, so noise, even at the heart of the British capital, is not an issue.

A main bedroom, a second room with sofa bed (and desk, so I used this as my office), dining area, living area, a dressing room, an enormous bathroom, a second toilet and access, if required, to an adjacent bedroom. A spacious balcony ran the entire length of the suite. Basically, this was a two/three-bedroom family suite, something that would undoubtedly appeal to Qataris looking to bring the brood across. All the usual gadgets you would expect to find in a hotel of this standard were present (WiFi, DVD player, giant plasma televisions, minibar, safe, etc.)

When checking in it was impossible not to notice the opulent level of decoration in the lobby – a theme that continued throughout the

All this space was, if anything, too much for just the two of us but I imagine that incidents of people returning to reception and complaining

I’ve previously stayed in some superb hotels in London, but none have reached the standards and levels of service we recently enjoyed during a three-night break at the Four Seasons Hotel London at Park Lane.

The main course of turbot at Amaranto restaurant

that “my room is too big, I’d like a smaller one please,” are rare. The standards set in terms of our accommodation were replicated throughout the hotel. Breakfast, served in an airy restaurant with floor to ceiling windows, was an a la carte affair with dishes cooked from scratch and rapidly delivered to the table, accompanied by a bewildering array of breads and juices. A new breakfast brunch menu has recently been introduced at the weekends. Come the evening, the restaurant becomes ‘Amaranto’, where an Italian menu is served – concocted by Executive Chef Adriano Cavagnini. If only I had an extra page to describe the dinner we enjoyed, such was its quality. The meal was faultless, the highlights being the main courses:

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turbot for my companion, and lobster risotto for me. The risotto was exceptional in taste and large in portion, so much so that I didn’t have room for a sweet. A fantastic meal overall, packed with flavour and served with panache by the besuited and knowledgeable staff. The hotel spa is located on the top (tenth) floor, where a variety of body treatments/massages and the like are available. My companion was treated to a eucalyptus and seaweed wrap, while I took advantage of the ‘heat experience’ section (identical, separate facilities for men and women) which consists of a sauna, steam room, huge rain shower and a ‘vitality pool’. The latter being a massive jacuzzi with relaxing jets of water coming at you from all angles while you lie on a submerged ‘bed’ of steel tubes. The tenth floor also has a coffee lounge, selection of newspapers and a great view across the city, along with a state-of-the-art fitness lounge which is currently undergoing full renovations.

Classic yet modern décor in the ultimate of urban surroundings

Only the most succulent Atlantic lobster makes it into their risotto

It would be easy to shower this hotel with superlatives, it really was that good. I think ‘exceptional’ sums up our stay without resorting to hyperbole. Everything impressed, but the levels of industry and professionalism of the staff stood out. It added a welcome personal touch to a very professional product. Sure enough, such luxury doesn’t come cheap. Double rooms with breakfast for two start at QR 2,300 a night, though special offers are often available on the website at www.fourseasons.com.

Your level of tranquillity is the only thing you need to worry about at the hotel's spa

How To Get There Qatar Airways flies five times daily to London, but we reached our destination internally, via return journey by train from Edinburgh with East Coast. If you’re planning a trip to London this summer of any appreciable length, then a trip to Edinburgh – the UK’s second most-popular destination – is well worth a look. Travelling by rail between the two cities is far less hassle than flying (city centre to city centre) and provides a far more rewarding view! First class return travel with East Coast features a complimentary at-seat service of hot and cold food, snacks, soft drinks and house beverages. Additionally, there’s free WiFi and a quiet carriage if you want some peace. Starting from QR 580, visit www.eastcoast.co.uk for more details. n

The rambling hills of the British coastline along the route from Edinburgh to London

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Virgin Recommends THE TOP U O Y S G IN R B H Q M THE STAFF PICKS FRO MEGASTORE

NAME: LINDON ARGALLON STORE SECTION: SHREDDER’S PLANET

TIME AT VIRGIN: ONE YEAR

Best Part of My Job:“The good thing about this section is you enjoy helping every customer, knowing everything they need to know about music – especially guitars because we focus on string instruments here.” CORDOBA CP-100 GUITAR This is a Spanish classical guitar and the perfect starter instrument for a beginner. The products we’re selling here are some of the best in terms of quality of the wood and the materials that they’re using – especially with Cordoba. They’re well-handcrafted with each detail a labour of love. Retail Price: Starting from QR 1,200.

STAGG 20-WATT AMPLIFIER This is a brand from Belgium that’s been gaining a lot of traction lately. The 20-watt amp-size is light-weight enough to be easily portable and is the perfect bit of gear for a live gig with friends. With simple distortion and gain options, it’s an ideal mid-range amp for plugged-in newbies. Retail price: Starting from QR 770.

MICHAEL KELLY FLANGER FMT-209 ACOUSTIC GUITAR CLIP-ON TUNER This is an American acoustic brand whose product just arrived in stock this December, so it’s still fairly new and includes a wide range of sixstrings. Made with a solid spruce top and classic dove-tail craftsmanship, choose from their Dreadnought, Cutaway and Travel styles. Retail Price: From QR, 2,200 to QR 4,800.

We have lots of accessories, especially tuners – everything a customer needs, with beginners in mind. There are three types of tuners – sound-receiving tuners, chromatic tuners and clip-on tuners, which is our best-seller. This one is a three-in-one tuner, metronome and tone generator. Retail price: Starting from QR 53.

SIGNATURE B.C. RICH ELECTRIC GUITAR Customers in the market for a heavy sound will find what they’re looking for with this instrument. Metal or rock – if it’s loud you want, it’s loud you’ll get. Choose from the classic Flying-V designs or rip out on their newest Warlock eight-string. Retail Price: Starting from QR 6,000.

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Spotlight On Movies

TOP

Our hit-list of the top flicks of the month. Extra popcorn anyone?

Captain America: The Winter Soldier Action | Adventure | Sci-Fi Steve Rogers struggles to embrace his role in the modern world and battles a new threat from old history: the Soviet agent known as The Winter Soldier. Stars: Chris Evans, Scarlett Johanssen, Samuel L. Jackson QH Fun Fact: This is the first Marvel movie to use barely any special effects, as directors Anthony and Joe Russo feel that live action film style has quickly become a dying art form.

Rio 2 Animation | Adventure | Comedy It's a jungle out there for Blu, Jewel and their three kids after they're hurtled from the magical city of Rio to the wilds of the Amazon. As Blu tries to fit in, he goes beak-to-beak with the vengeful Nigel, and meets the most fearsome adversary of all – his father-in-law. Stars: Anne Hathaway, Rodrigo Santoro, Jamie Foxx QH Fun Fact: In the Rio 2 teaser poster, the number two is made up of 150 Spix’s Macaws – which is the same number of the endangered bird species left in captivity.

Walk Of Shame Comedy A reporter's dream of becoming a news anchor is compromised after a wild night leaves her stranded in downtown L.A. without a phone, car, ID or money - and only eight hours to make it to the most important job interview of her life. Stars: Elizabeth Banks, James Marsden, Ethan Suplee QH Fun Fact: Leading lady Elizabeth Banks is appearing in more and more comedic roles, saying “Every once in a while I play a true idiot, and they’re really fun to play.”

Dom Hemingway Comedy | Crime | Drama After spending 12 years in prison for keeping his mouth shut, notorious safe-cracker Dom Hemingway is back on the streets of London looking to collect what he's owed. Stars: Jude Law, Emilia Clarke, Richard E. Grant QH Fun Fact: Hollywood heartthrob Jude Law gained 30 pounds for the lead role of Dom. Chubby or thin, we still love him!

Transcendence Action | Drama | Sci-Fi A terminally ill scientist downloads his mind into a computer. This grants him power beyond his wildest dreams and soon he becomes unstoppable. Stars: Johnny Depp, Morgan Freeman, Kate Mara QH Fun Fact: Director Wally Pfister eschewed digital camera-work to shoot the movie on 35mm film, adding the finishing touches to the effects photo-chemically – refusing to use all digital mediums.

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QH Sensations

The Dish On Qatar Keep our tear-out list of emergency numbers on-hand and always try to remain calm in a situation

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By Charlie Sands

This month we’ve put together a list of ‘what to do in an emergency’, including everything from which numbers to dial, to losing your passport and breaking down in the desert – so keep calm and carry on! 999 Do dial it if you urgently need an ambulance, the police, or fire service. And if you’re at home, remember where you live. For this you need to know your building number and apartment number as well as your street name, number and your zone name and number. This information will be on the street sign where you live (e.g. Zone 25, Street 868) so take a look and note it down. Don't panic and try to say which service you need, and explain what you need it for. But don’t dial 999 if it's a non-urgent medical injury, where you can get driven to emergency at Hamad General Hospital in a private vehicle, which might actually save you time rather than waiting for an ambulance to arrive in rush hour.

Breakdown So you've broken down and you require breakdown assistance to help you get your vehicle fixed and, if necessary, taken to an auto garage to be repaired. If you’re on a highway then you shouldn't wait for a breakdown service to come and pick you up but call the traffic police (4489-0666) and ask for assistance. Although not many people actually know about it, there are actually some breakdown services you can subscribe to (for a cost). One is AAAArabia (www.aaaqatar.com or 4481-0500). Another is Qatar Assist (5545-5252). And a search for ‘Automotive Breakdown Service’ on the online Yellow Pages www.qatcom.com will bring up a list of around 10 other options. Also, to avoid problems when you do breakdown it's a good idea to keep in your car: plenty of water to avoid dehydration, a fire extinguisher, a first-aid kit, a flashlight, and if you’re driving in the desert take a shovel and a tow rope. A mobile phone will of course get you out of trouble in many situations but if you are going off the beaten track, travelling in a convoy is also strongly advised. Make note of the petrol stations en route and always make sure you've topped up before longer journeys. And carry your driver’s licence and insurance documents with you at all times.

First-Aid There's a myriad of information online but here is one easy-to-access and printable guide that you might want to keep handy:

www.redcross.org.uk/everydayfirstaid. Also of interest if you want to do a first-aid course or update your existing knowledge, then the Hamad International Training Center (4439-7399 or www.hmc.org.qa/hitc ) runs a lot of courses, some of which are for the public. Qatar Red Crescent also runs first aid courses and you can call them at 4402-7777.

When You Need Consular Services Other kinds of emergency may mean you need the help of your embassy or consular services. Thankfully as most people live in Doha and this is the capital, you will find most embassies or consulates in the city. It varies from country to country what kind of help your embassy can provide, but it’s advised that you contact them for any legal matters concerning your Qatari ID, visa and documentation (where there’s a dispute or documents are not available), and also for notary services, loss of passports and for people facing or in jail, for people on trial or involved in legal proceedings and in case of death, assault or abduction. Of course this is not a finite list and there may be other services that are provided by your embassy or not provided, so it’s worth visiting them online or giving them a call to find out what they can do for you. Ann Munro, Vice Consul, Head of the Consular Section at the British Embassy Qatar says: “One of the most common issues we face is when British nationals try to leave Qatar with less than six months on their passport. Some countries won’t let you enter with less than six months’ validity so we advise people to always check their travel documents before travelling, especially for children’s passports which only last for five years. If necessary we can issue an ETD (Emergency Travel Document) but not all countries will allow you to enter on them, so please plan your passport renewal well in advance.” n

Here’s a list of a few common expat embassies: • Canada – 4419-9000 • UK – 4496-2000 • USA – 4488-4101 • Australia (UAE) - (+971) 4508-7100 • New Zealand (UAE) - (+971) 2441-1222 • South Africa – 4485-7111 • Philippines - 4483-1585 • India – 4425-5777 • Pakistan – 4483-2525 • Nepal – 4467-5681 • Bangladesh – 4467-1927 • Kuwait – 4483-2111 • UAE – 4483-8880 • Lebanon – 4493-3330 • Oman – 4493-1514 • Jordan – 4483-2202 • Egypt – 4483-2115 • Syria – 4483-1844 For the full list, try to this very useful website: www.embassypages.com.

Other Useful Numbers • Police, Fire, Ambulance – 999 • Telephone Directory - 180 • Kahramaa – 991 • International Calls – 150 • Internet Service - 111 • Traffic & Patrol Police Department – 4489-0666 • Hamad Hospital – 4439-4444 • Flight Information (Doha International Airport) – 4462-2999 • Doha Airport – 4465-6666 • General Post Office – 4446-4446 • Customs and Port Authority – 4445-7457 • Qatar Tourism Authority – 4499-7499 • Ooredoo (Q-Tel) - 111 • Directorate of Immigration, Passports and Naturalization – 4488-2882

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It Happened

QATAR TOTAL OPEN 2014 Khalifa Tennis & Squash Complex Feb 10-16, 2014

Champion Simona Halep (right) and finalist Angelique Kerber (left) show off their trophies

QATAR MOTOR SHOW National Exhibition Center Feb 20, 2014

Qatar's Minister of Culture, H.E. Dr. Hamad Bin Abdulaziz Al-Kuwari (second from right) examines the latest concept cars

Onlookers check out the new BMW i8 model from Alfardan Automobiles

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The team from Red Bull showed off an array of tricks and stunts

HOW WOMEN WORK CONFERENCE Crowne Plaza Doha March 5-6, 2014

Photography by Nadir Khamis

Conference organizer Carolin Zeitler greets attendees at the annual event

RED BULL EXPO National Exhibition Center Feb 20, 2014

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It Happened

L-R: Martin Hope of the British Council, Cecile El Beleidi of the British Embassy, HE British Ambassador Nicholas Hopton, Lee Jennings of the Welsh Government, and Gareth O'Brien of UKTI

THE BRITISH FESTIVAL 2014 LAUNCH The British Embassy March 9, 2014

Farah Elalfy of the Grand Hyatt (second from left), and the Emirates Airlines Sales and Marketing team

L-R: Nicholas Chrisostomou of Coco LattĂŠ and Grand Hyatt GM Christoph Franzen and his wife

THE RED BALL The Grand Hyatt Feb 14, 2014

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SUNDOWNER SESSIONS Sharq Village & Spa March 21, 2014

L-R: Fadzai Dodzo, Mimi Teferra and Nerine Lourens

The Four Seasons waterfront party venue is back with a bang

PARTY AT THE PIER The Four Seasons March 20, 2014

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It Happened

Minister of Culture HE Dr. Hamad bin Abdulaziz Al Kuwari, Qatar Tourism Authority Chairman, HE Issa bin Mohammed Al Mohannadi, & Qatar Airways Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Akbar Al Baker cut the ribbon at QIFF 2014.

The dining in the sky experience was for fearless foodies only

QATAR INTERNATIONAL FOOD FESTIVAL MIA Park March 20, 2014

With a variety of booths and stalls set up to raise awareness about Doha's roads this year's event enjoyed a successful campaign

GULF TRAFFIC WEEK Across Doha March 9-15, 2014

Staff Major General Saad bin Jassim al-Khulaifi & Jassim Mohammed Al Ansari, Green Line Project Director at Qatar Rail

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Phone Directory Al Gassar Resort 4424-4881 Al Mourjan Restaurants 4483-4423 Bert’s Cafe` 4495-3876 Biella 4467-7731 Crowne Plaza The Business Park 4408-7582 Doha Marriott Hotel 4429-8888 Four Seasons 4494-8888 Grand Heritage Doha Hotel 4445 5555 and Spa Grand Hyatt 4448-1234 Holiday Villa 4408-4220 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 Mövenpick Hotel 4429-1111 Mövenpick Tower & Suites 4496-6115 Nando’s Delivery Hotline 4436-0606 Oryx Rotana 4402-3333 Radisson Blu 4428-1555 Red Velvet 4408 0700 Renaissance Doha City Center 4419-5000 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 4453-5021 Wyndham Grand Regency 4434-3333

Airlines Air Arabia Air India Egypt Air Emirates Etihad Airways Gulf Air Qatar Airways

Ahmed Hassan Bilal Group

Health / Beauty

Hotels / Restaurants

4432-2111 4441-8423 4435-2901 4438-4477 4436-6657 4499-8000 4449-6666

Hospitals/Emergency

Amaoras RelaxationSpa Angsana Spa Bader Chemist Bay View 26, Wellness Centre Bio-Bil Health, Beauty & Spa Ladies Men’s

4493-4433 4483-0989

Bliss 4453-5555 Bottega Verde 4483-4535 Dados Beauty Salon 4498-0033 Diva Lounge 4431-8488 Diplomatic Spa 4484-7412 Doha Dental 4431-7766 Doha Marriott Spa 4429-8520 Ebn Sina Medical 800-2288 Foot Care Centre Lulu Gharafa 4478-0510 The Center 4436-6275 City Center 4493-0394 Four Seasons Spa 4494-8801 Frank Provost 4494-8844 Glow American Salon, Salwa Rd. 4468-9945 West Bay 4411-7652 GoodLife Chemist City Center 4483-9100 The Pearl 4495-3876 Guerlain Alfardan Spa 4420-8660 Habibs Hair and Beauty Salon 4413-0672 La Cigale - Ozone Spa 4428-8888 Medical Spa Villaggio 4451-7590 Patrice Salon 4485-4012 Ritz-Carlton Spa 4484-8173 Saray Spa 4419-5517 Six Senses Spa 4425-6999 Snips Salonon 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

AMBULANCE, POLICE & FIRE DEPARTMENT DOHA CLINIC HOSPITAL

4408-4085 4434-3152 4441-1888 4496-6410

4434-4496 4436-1461 4467-1200 4462-2777 4422-1888 4449-6969 4455-3954 4455-1141 4499-7499 4434-4444 4466-6635 4440 9666 999

4438-4333

EMERGENCY HOTLINE 4435-5999

PEDIATRIC EMERGENCY

4439-2948

AL AHLI HOSPITAL

4489-8000

QATAR FOUNDATION FOR CHILD &

HAMAD GENERAL HOSPITAL

4439-2222

WOMAN PROTECTION HOTLINE 4466-6671 / 72

RUMAILAH HOSPITAL

4439-3333

REAL ESTATE Ahmed Hassan Bilal 4442-8877 Trad. & Cont. Co. www.ahbqatar.com INTERIOR Forum Design 4456-8716 RESTAURANTS Chowking Salwa Road 4437-1212 4431-4411 Chowking Al Saad St. 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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