Qatar Happening - April 2015

Editor-In-Chief's Letter

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

QH Speaks

The best of our social media, plus the Hit-Or-Miss list!

The QH Grab-Bag

Our monthly prize corner for your chance to win

It Happened

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

Phone Directory

Need-to-know phone numbers

Top Picks

Legends Of Reggae

Music legends The Wailers are coming to the Sheraton Doha and we meet the band!

Nos Encanta España

The Seville April Fair is back for the second year in a row with the sounds and flavours of Spain

Magic On Ice

The cast of Frozen leads the show in Disney On Ice presents Princesses & Heroes

Virgin Recommends

The best monthly entertainment picks from the Megastore

Spotlight On Movies

Our top five must-see films of the month

Entertainment Listings

Find out everything that’s going on this month

Top Picks

Animal Tales

We explore MIA's new Marvellous Creatures exhibit to learn about the mythical animals that have graced the pages of Islamic folktales throughout the centuries

Mad For Manga

How one local Qatari couple turned their love for Japanese collectibles into a thriving business at Hobby Chan – Qatar's first and only anime store

Arts & Culture Listings

Find out everything that’s going on this month

Top Picks

Smiles Of Friendship

How the Best Buddies Qatar program is offering children with disabilities an opportunity to shine

Radio, What's New?

We meet Qatar's king of the airwaves, QBS Radio's Haytham Jawhari

Choosing The Right Babysitter

What caregiver-criteria should be met? We offer up a few tips

Community Listings

Find out everything that’s going

this month

Top Picks

Spain A La Mode

El Faro in the new Marsa Malaz Kempinski sets the bar for Doha tapas-lovers

The Bentley SteakhousesOf

It's sheer flavour and pure class at the Radisson Blu's Bentley's Grill

Chef Marco's Table

The Four Seasons' Chef Marco Arlotti takes us to the Italian seaside with his recipe for savoury seafood linguine

Word Of Mouth

Our contest winner turns up the heat at Nando's on The Pearl-Qatar

Food & Dining Listings

Find out everything that’s going on this month

The Road To The Qatar Cup

The best teams in the Qatar Stars League have their eyes on the prize

Spring Sport Preview

We've got more games, tournaments and sporting events than you can shake a stick at this April!

World Cup In A Winter Wonderland

It's official – a 2022 winter World Cup. We tell you what that means on a global sporting scale

A Weighty Issue

The experts at Fitness With Food dispel the myths surrounding caffeine and weight loss

Sports Listings

Find out everything that’s going on this month

Top Picks

The Lap Of Luxury

We opt for some indulgent spring treatments at The Four Seasons Doha vSpa & Wellness Centre

Country Life

Spring has sprung in the English countryside of Hampshire. We check in to The Four Seasons property for a breath of fresh air – plus a side-trip to Stonehenge!

The Dish On Qatar

This month we offer newcomers a guide to Doha's parks and green spaces

From The Desk Of The Editor-In-Chief On The Cover?

Dear friends,

We’re very excited to unveil to our readers this month’s April issue. Those who follow Qatar Happening will have noticed that since January 2015 we’ve introduced a new look, layout and size, plus a superior style of paper quality and gloss. We said to ourselves that this year will be a year of change for the brand and we’re more than proud of what we’ve accomplished in the first quarter of the New Year. It is our hope that we can work together and keep growing, bringing you a stylish, glossy read with vibrant stories, photos and colours that jump off the page.

Speaking of stories, we’ve got more than a few to pique your interest across the board this issue. In our It Happened section it is our utmost privilege to bring you images of Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser during her inaugural visit to Hamad bin Khalifa University's new Faculty of Islamic Studies building and also delivering the keynote address at the recent World Innovation Summit on Health 2015 held here in Doha. Her compassionate contributions towards global access to health and education are to be commended.

On the Entertainment scene we’re highlighting the celebration of culture with two very special events – the Spanish Seville April Fair happening at the Hilton Doha and the Cherry Blossom Festival week at The St. Regis honouring the Japanese tradition.

While over in Community we shed light on the Best Buddies Qatar program with a feel-good feature on how children and youth with disabilities are making new friends and establishing a positive identity through a very special social exchange. We headed out to Education City to take part in their recent Carnival Festival of Friends and met some truly inspiring children and mentors who are all working towards a common goal – and it’s our pleasure to share it with you.

April is also a deciding time in the world of local sports as the Qatar Stars League football teams gear up for competition to close out the season with the 2015 Qatar Cup. Formerly known as The Heir Apparent Cup, the tournament is one of most-anticipated highlights for local football and we bring you more than a few sporty insights this issue. Also, with FIFA’s recent recommendations for a winter 2022 World Cup, we re-visit the implications of a tournament date change with an in-depth analysis in our Sports pages.

As always, we’re grateful for the trust and dedication of our readers who continue to choose us as their go-to guide each and every month.

Thank you for making us a part of your lives,

We've got our reggae colours out in full force for The Wailers!

About Us

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

Publisher: The Art of Business

Chairman: Ahmed Hassan Bilal

Editor-in-Chief: Nasser Ahmed Hassan Bilal

Editor: Ashlee Starratt

Finalizer / Production Manager: Srimani Welagedara

Lead Designer / Brand Manager: Zahi Srour

Photographer: Jessie Palanca

New Media Manager: Serah Mary Sampath

Web Coordinator: Imran Khan

Intern: Aisha Javaid

Sales and Marketing Manager: Deliah Furcoi

Sales and Communications Manager: Jorge Granda

Marketing Coordinator: Chet Tibayan

Distribution & Accounts: Lanie Fillo-Pana

Contributors: Shahmim Akram, Jacqueline Bodnar, Diana Farid, Mitch Freeley – QSL , Rodger Gillen, Karine Hajjar, John Hunt, Jan Janssen – Viva Press, Jonny Parr, Carl Roberts, Brian Schwartz, Lindsey Steenkamp, Ujwala Thirumurthy, Ray Toh – Raytohgraphy

QATAR HAPPENING (QH) is published 12 times a year by The Art of Business, Doha, Qatar, an associate of Ahmed Hassan Bilal Group.

The information contained in QATAR HAPPENING (QH) is correct at the time of printing. Details may change at any time without liability on the part of The Art of Business. Readers are advised to confirm details with the event organizers.

All rights reserved 2011, The Art of Business. Reproduction in part or in full is strictly prohibited. QATAR HAPPENING (QH) assumes no responsibility for content of advertisements.

QATAR HAPPENING (QH) retails for QR 10. Bulk subscriptions are available for QR 5 each, for orders over 50. Printed by

- 2015

Photo Credit: Conceptualized by Lindsey Steenkamp

Nasser Ahmed Hassan Bilal

QHSPEAKS

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

Editor’s Corner

Well, I guess you could call this the reggae edition of QH! This month it’s our massive pleasure to bring you the one-and-only Wailers, the iconic reggae band founded by the late Bob Marley, Bunny Livingston and Peter Tosh, as our April cover feature exclusive. The icons of reggae will be performing a one-night-only show on May 22 at the Sheraton Doha, so flip to our Entertainment section for a sneak peek in advance as we sit down with bassist Aston ‘Family Man’ Barrett to talk music, life and legacy.

It’s been a while since we had such a big name on the music scene in Doha and it’s a definite first for the reggae genre. With a healthy appetite for the island rhythms and their message of peace, love and harmony, Qatar’s listening public have spoken – and it’s going to be one heck of a party!

After a revamp of our look, layout and size, this month’s April issue marks yet another milestone for the Qatar Happening family as we welcome Aspire Printing Press as our new publishing partner. We're excited to keep bringing you an elevated quality of publication each and every month and it's our pleasure to welcome them on board.

Also coming up in the weeks ahead, Disney On Ice is back in Doha for more musical action in the rink. Though we’ve got a teaser to tempt you in this month’s issue, stayed tuned for a full cover feature for May. There’s also some compelling stories in our Arts & Culture pages this month as we introduce you to some truly Marvellous Creatures at MIA, plus a Qatari couple whose passion for Japanese culture has turned into a thriving business at Doha’s very first manga and anime store!

We also take you inside the new Marsa Malaz Kempinski for a taste of Spain at El Faro restaurant, get up-close-and-personal with the Iron Man himself, Robert Downey Jr. and go behind the decks with Iconic Qatar who are bringing heavy-hitting DJs Paul van Dyk and Mark Ronson to Doha this month. You’ll also find a ton of Easter events scattered throughout this issue like an egg hunt so go on and get flipping – April won’t be here for long…

See you next month,

Ashlee Starratt Editor

Top Of The Twitter-Verse

Your #DailyKickstart: Productivity is less about what you do with your time, and more about how you run your mind.

Trouble In Paradise?

Last month’s launch of Saint-Tropez’s Thursday night beach club at the Hilton Doha got off to a bit of a rocky start, but we want to give them the benefit of the doubt to up their game. With the promise of an upgraded quality of service and number of staff, triple the token kiosks, plus cocktail tasters from 8:00 p.m. till 10:00 p.m., we’re keen to see their stock rise. Check out our full feature in Entertainment on page 30!

Here Comes The Rain Again

If April showers bring May flowers (though maybe not in Doha), then we hope to see a bit more of the wet stuff that’s graced us with its presence since March. Yeah, your car gets muddy, yes your hair gets damp – but who cares? Rain in the desert is a blessing, so let’s all just keep on dancing in it.

Three’s Company?

Or maybe not so much if you’re three singletons searching for your dream apartment. We’re giving a big thumbs down to one West Bay property (which shall remain nameless), whose policy of only allowing sharing under corporate leases meant losing out on an amazing unit for one QH staffer. We want to know how many of our readers have had similar experiences? Time to check out Qatar’s Rent Law more closely…

Don’t Mess With A Good Thing

In last month’s Hit-Or-Miss list we may have been raving just a wee bit about the Hilton Doha’s new High Heels Lounge. So we were a bit disappointed to discover that after a few short months they’re changing the concept yet again. What we loved about High Heels was the unique experience of being able to chill out in three different areas all at one venue – restaurant, lounge and rooftop. Now, it’s looking like the rooftop will be re-launched as its own outlet called Blanco – we’ll just have to wait and see on that one!

This month’s grab-bag is all about luxury, as The W Doha’s Executive Chef Mauro G. Gomez is treating two lucky winners to a fabulously exclusive dinner in the hotel’s iconic WOW Suite.

To participate, head on over to the Qatar Happening Facebook page where the winner will be selected on April 12!

About Chef Mauro

Chef Mauro G. Gomez brings his wealth of more than ten years of international experience from leading luxury hotels and resorts to The W Doha as Executive Chef. Mauro manages a brigade of 140 chefs and 35 stewards, spearheading food and beverage operations across all of the hotel’s restaurants and lounges, as well as overseeing its catering needs. Since joining in 2013, his leadership has significantly contributed to these venues’ numerous accolades. Market by JeanGeorges alone has reaped Restaurant of the Year at the 2013 BBC Good Food Middle East Awards.

Other hotel recognitions, where the food and beverage division is considered a key contributor to success, include Best Five-Star Business/Corporate Hotel at the 2013 MENA Travel Awards; Middle East’s Leading Hotel Residences and Lifestyle Hotel, and Qatar’s Leading Hotel Residences and Lifestyle Hotel at the 2013 World Travel Awards; and Best Business Hotel in the Middle East at the 2013 Condé Nast Traveller Middle East Readers’ Choice Award.

Mauro’s passion for all things gastronomic, coupled with his business acumen, has been developed from the time he studied Economics at the University of Buenos Aires, Culinary Arts at the Lindsey Hopkins Technical School, and Strategic Hospitality Management at Cornell University. He furthered his practical training at the world’s top hospitality brands such as The W Atlanta Midtown, The W Retreat & Spa Maldives, Melia Hotel Atlanta, and Banyan Tree Hotels and Resorts.

Today, his aim is not only to take the hotel to greater heights but also to inspire his team to be the best in their field, which naturally enables them to bring the best W Doha signature food and beverage experience to diners and guests. This is sure to be one top-tier meal to remember for our lucky winner – bon appétit! n

W Doha Executive Chef Mauro G. Gomez wants to cook you dinner!

La Spiga by Paper Moon

Photo Credit: Jessie Palanca

Market by Jean-Georges

Spice Market

Unwind in style at Wahm

The W Doha's WOW Suite

ENTERTAINMENT Top Picks

THE RITZ-CARLTON

Lucky 23

Daily: Level 23. Why limit ‘happy’ to an hour? Order two drinks and pay for one. It only takes 33 seconds to reach Level 23! From 5:00 p.m. till 7:30 p.m. For more information call 4484-8000, or email rc.dohrz.leads@ritzcarlton.com.

THE

ST. REGIS DOHA Reggae Night

Thurs & Fri: Oyster Bay. Every weekend Buggy Nhakente and the Fully Loaded band get the crowd grooving to their foot-tapping beats on the beach. Minimum spend of QR 200 per person for VIP tables only. From 8:00 p.m. till late. For more information call 4446-0000 or e-mail Oysterbay.Doha@stregis.com.

THE FOUR SEASONS Thursday Beach Party

Thursdays: Pool Grill. The highly-popular Thursday party season is back once again. Set up on the beach of The Four Seasons, the party has a great atmosphere and the best crowds from Doha’s social scene. No cover charge, terms and conditions apply. Doors close at midnight. From 8:00 p.m. till 1:30 a.m. For more information call 4494-8888.

LA CIGALE

Arabic Songs

Tuesdays: Madison Piano Bar. Do you miss the old Arabic songs? The star Shady El Basha will perform the best Tarab songs at Madison Piano Bar every Tuesday – so be there! No entrance fee and no minimum charges. Membership required. From 10:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. For more information call 4428-8665 or 5518-8008.

RADISSON BLU Laughter Factory

April 13 & 14: Shehrazad. Radisson’s monthly nights of stand-up comedy with three of the best comics from the Laughter Factory will help you unwind and relax after work. QR 140. For more information call 4428-1555 or email fbreservations.doha@radissonblu.com.

Legends Of Reggae

As told to Ashlee Starratt & Jorge Granda

Photography by Brian Schwartz

Next month, icons of reggae

The Wailers are bringing their universal sound to Qatar with a performance at the Sheraton Doha. QH sits down with reggae legend and Rastafarian Aston ‘Family Man’ Barrett to talk about his music with a message and the band’s early days with Bob Marley.

Together with Bob Marley, the Wailers have sold more than 250 million albums worldwide, notching up over 20 chart hits, including seven Top 10 entries in England alone. Outside of their ground-breaking work with Marley, The Wailers have also played or performed with international acts like Sting, the Fugees, Stevie Wonder, Carlos Santana, and Alpha Blondy, as well as reggae legends Peter Tosh, Bunny Wailer, and Burning Spear. As the greatest living exponents of Jamaica’s reggae tradition, the Wailers have toured the globe, playing to an estimated 24 million people around the world. They were also the first reggae band to tour new territories, including Africa and the Far East.

Their nucleus formed in 1969 when Bob Marley, Bunny Wailer, and Peter Tosh recruited the Barrett brothers – bassist Aston ‘Family Man’ and drummer

Carly – from Lee Perry’s Upsetters to play on hits such as ‘Lively Up Yourself’, ‘Trenchtown Rock’ and ‘Duppy Conqueror’. Inspired by Rastafari and their ambitions of reaching an international audience, their original line-up pioneered roots rock reggae, and eventually signed to Island Records in 1971. Bunny and Peter left the group two years later and it was at this point that the in-demand Barrett brothers – whose rhythms influenced many other hits by reggae artists during the 70s – assumed the title of The Wailers, and backed Marley on the group’s international breakthrough album, Natty Dread. Under Family Man’s musical leadership, they partnered with Bob Marley on a succession of hit singles and albums that made him a global icon, winner of several Lifetime Achievement awards, and Jamaica’s best-loved musical superstar. Drummer Carlton ‘Carly’ Barrett died in 1987, leaving his brother to carry on The Wailers legacy.

Through their music, Aston 'Family Man' Barrett carries on The Wailers' legacy,

QH: Why do you think reggae music remains relevant after so many decades?

AB: Because it’s the music of the people – and the people’s cry will always be heard no matter what the crisis is.

QH: The Wailers have carried on the musical and humanitarian legacy they helped build with Bob Marley. What themes are most important to you in the band's song-writing and what kind of message are you looking to spread?

AB: Peace, love and understanding.

QH: For a lot people in Qatar – especially locals, the concept of Rastafarianism is relatively foreign, even though its roots were laid not too far from here, in Ethiopia. What does being a Rasta mean at its most elemental level?

AB: It means truth and rights, cultural respect and the preservation of our origin, Africa.

QH: What kind of touring and music-making have you guys been up to lately? Are you working on a new studio album or any collaborative works with other reggae artists? You guys have also done some recent charity

work with the World Food Programme's (WFP) Fight Ebola campaign.

AB: We’re not recording anything at this time as The Wailers, but we’re always working with other artists. The latest project was with Selasee and the Fafa Family [on] the album Time For Peace. Selasee is from Ghana. My son Aston Barrett Jr. has a new band Reggae Force that I’m working with as well.

Our work with the WFP goes back many years. These past several months we’ve put together a fundraising campaign with WFP USA to benefit their efforts to fight Ebola. The campaign is through their website, www.wfpusa.com/wailers, where we’re selling items that benefit the organization.

QH: What is one piece of wisdom from Bob that you’ve always carried with you?

AB: Bob’s work ethic was very strong, and I’ve always maintained the same standard.

QH: Is there a song that you guys wrote together that's always been your favourite?

AB: There is not a favourite…I like to switch up the program in order to share the many favourites with the fans. n

IN CONCERT

Date: Friday, May 22

Location: Indigo at the Sheraton Doha

Ticket Info: QR 250, with VIP packages available.

Contact Info: For more information visit Iconic Qatar’s Facebook page

Through their music, Aston 'Family Man' Barrett carries on The Wailers' legacy,

Singer Dwayne Anglin

Wailers vocalist Cegee Victory

THE WAILERS LIVE

Iconic Nights

As told to Jorge Granda

After the smashing success of Ed Sheeran’s concert, Iconic Qatar events promoter Jared McCulloch is bringing us more entertainment this month starting with the launch of Indigo: The VIP Experience concept at the Sheraton Doha, plus Paul van Dyk, Mark Ronson and more. QH has the details on all the upcoming party plans!

The Sheraton Doha, one of Qatar’s most iconic hotels, is ready to host the ultimate weekly party experience. The re-vamped five-star hotel will be the Friday hotspot for Indigo – a beach club concept that will change Doha’s party scene. Indigo combines awesome elements of entertainment, music, fashion, dining and art into one, and is set to make its mark as the hot address for Doha’s trendsetters. Making the most of the Sheraton’s multi-faceted luxury and lifestyle location, Indigo will be hosting Qatar's leading DJs as well as world-famous international artists.

Indigo will open its doors on Friday, April 3 from 5:30 p.m. till 1:00 a.m. – so join in for their happy hour from 5:30 p.m. till 7:00 p.m. and indulge in some shisha and sushi too! For more information follow Indigo on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram @ IndigoDayLife.

ICONIC QATAR & GLOBAL DJS PRESENT

Paul van Dyk

Politics Of Dancing World Tour

Thursday, April 16: For more than two decades, the world has known Paul van Dyk as one of Germany's most successful musicians and as one of the ultimate superstars of electronic music. As an artist, DJ and producer, Paul has surpassed various milestones over the course of his career, including having sold more than 3.5 million albums and being voted the world's No.1 DJ twice. He’s remixed the likes of Madonna, Justin Timberlake, U2 and Depeche Mode. Earning a Grammy nomination and accepting the Order of Merit from the state of Berlin are just two of Paul's numerous accomplishments and accolades for his talents. The famous DJ will be performing live in Doha this April 16. For full information including venue and ticket prices, visit the ‘GlobalDJsOnline’ Facebook page.

Mark Ronson

Live In Doha

Thursday, April 23: A Grammy and Brit Awardwinner, Mark Ronson is an English singer, DJ and music producer, best known for his chart-topping single, 'Uptown Funk' featuring Bruno Mars. Ronson got his break on the scene when he was approached by the manager for Nikka Costa and went on to producer her song 'Everybody Got Their Something', which led to a recording contract with Elektra Records. In 2003, Ronson released his debut album, Here Comes The Fuzz, which went on to receive

tremendous critical acclaim. The album featured artists like Nate Dogg, Ghostface Killah and Trife Diesel, yet failed to sell well, despite its promotion and critical response.

Ronson found commercial success in 2007 with his album of cover songs, entitled Version. Released on June 22, 2007, Version reached the second spot on the UK charts. The album featured appearances from Kasabian, Robbie Williams, Amy Winehouse and Lily Allen. Soon after he began work on his third studio album, Record Collection, which was released in September 2010. The album received strong reviews and hit the top of the UK Downloads Chart and came second on the UK Albums Chart. In October 2014, Ronson released the lead single from his fourth studio album; the song, 'Uptown Funk', featured Bruno Mars and topped the Billboard Hottest 100. On January 13, 2015, Ronson released Uptown Special to rave reviews. The album topped the UK charts and reached number five on the Billboard Album Charts, becoming the highest charting album from Ronson in the US. For full information including venue and ticket prices, visit the Iconic Qatar and Alive Qatar Facebook pages. n

There's a new kid in town to liven up the party scene Indigo at the Sheraton Doha!

DJ Paul van Dyk

DJ Mark Ronson

Nos Encanta España!

As told to Jorge Granda

For the second year in a row Qatar welcomes The Spanish Seville April Fair! Get ready to dance once again with Spanish band Calle Botica, taste authentic regional dishes and sip the best traditional beverages on the Hilton Doha’s Blanco rooftop.

The Seville April Fair (or Feria de Abril de Sevilla) is a yearly event held in the Andalusian capital of Seville, Spain. The fair generally takes place over six days in April, with the festivities beginning with a parade of carriages and riders at midday, carrying Seville's leading citizens, and making its way to the bullring, La Real Maestranza, where the bullfighters and breeders meet.

For the duration of the festival, the fairgrounds and a vast area on the far bank of the Guadalquivir River are totally covered in temporary rows of casetas (individually-decorated marquee tents). Some of the casetas belong to the prominent families of Seville, some to groups of friends, clubs, trade associations or political parties. From around 9:00 p.m. until 6:00 a.m. or 7:00 a.m. the following morning, at first in the streets and later only within each caseta, you’ll find crowds partying and dancing the Sevillanas, drinking rebujito vino, and enjoying some famous Spanish tapas

The Feria de Abril is accompanied by men and women dressed up in their finery – traditional trajecorto (short jacket, tight trousers, hats and boots) for men, and the colourful faralaes (flamencostyle dress) for women.

The Seville April Fair In Doha

The first Seville April Fair in Qatar took place last year at The W Doha organized by local promoter Paloma Garralda and Anayetevents. The two-day event was a massive success, attracting not only local expat Spaniards, but expats from a host of nationalities who call Doha home. This year’s event will be held on April 16 at the Blanco rooftop in the Hilton Doha.

The Sounds Of Calle Botica

All the way from Huelva, Spain Calle Botica’s first CD is already on the market, and with over on five years of performing live on the stages of western Andalusia, these five talented friends are bringing their unique flavour of flamenco-Andalusian music to audiences around the world.

Having performed over 150 times last year, headlining the renowned music halls of Seville such as Groucho and many other spread along Andalusia, these guys know how to make people dance. Laughter, good vibes and a wide Spanish-Latin music repertoire, mixed with high doses of Spanish sense of humour make them a must-see. Come and join them for the second time in Doha at the Spanish April Fair 2015! n

THE SEVILLE APRIL FAIR

Date: April 16

Location: Blanco rooftop, Hilton Doha

When: From 8:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m.

Entry Fee: QR 220. Ticket includes Spanish tapas buffet dinner, one welcome drink and special gifts. Minimum consumption fee of QR 2,000 for tables of six people or more

Dress Code: Flamenco-Spanish outfits. Look out for the Best Outfit Award.

Contact Info: Call 5572-3345 or visit the Spanish April Fair 2015 and Anayetevents Facebook pages

We love Spain! The flamenco was out in full force at last year's festival at The W Doha

Guest can also enjoy a taste of traditional Spanish tapas at the Hilton rooftop

Magic On Ice!

As told to Jorge Granda Images courtesy of Feld Entertainment

Disney On Ice is returning to Qatar for the third year in a row as Royal sisters Anna and Elsa from Disney’s Frozen are bringing their Princesses & Heroes show to the Middle East from May 27-30 at QNCC. QH gives you a sneak peak in advance!

Disney On Ice is heading back to Doha this spring with Anna and Elsa and the hilarious snowman Olaf from Disney’s Frozen headlining in Disney On Ice presents Princesses & Heroes. Audience-goers will enter a world of wonder where heroes and hearts prevail, Tinker Bell guides guests from Doha to a place where imaginations soar and anything can happen if they just believe.

The Disney team has rounded up their very best classic collection of tales, wonderfully told through artistic skating and acrobatics. Believing is just the beginning in this mesmerizing show where dreamers will witness the magic of eight other Disney Princesses – Ariel, Belle, Cinderella, Rapunzel, Tiana, Jasmine, Aurora and Snow White – making their wishes come true.

Jasmine discovers a whole new world with Aladdin after meeting her unlikely hero in the marketplace. Prince Philip defeats the evil fire-breathing dragon Maleficent in a race to save his true love Aurora. Prince Eric breaks Ursula’s spell so that Ariel can remain part of his world. Rapunzel, Tiana, Cinderella, Belle and Snow White also find happiness in this beautifully-imagined ice show.

“Before dreaming up this show, we reflected on what makes Disney’s princesses and heroes so special,” producer Kenneth Feld tells us. “It didn’t take long to realize that every princess had one thing in common: each embarked on an adventure to find her heart’s fondest wish, and through believing, it comes true. We wanted to share that inspirational message with our audiences by celebrating the stories of these enchanting princesses and their heroic princes.”

Guests will also enjoy a special second act by royal sisters, Anna and Elsa from the Academy Award-winning and number-one animated feature film of all time, Disney’s Frozen. Audiences will enter the land of Arendelle and journey up the North Mountains with Olaf and rugged mountainman Kristoff as they help the sisters along the way to discover true love can conquer all. “Being able to include these new and exciting characters from Disney's Frozen, keeps our shows current and ever-evolving,” divulges Feld.

Tickets for performances at the Qatar National Convention Centre start from QR 150 and are on sale now at all Virgin Megastores and online at www.virginmegastore.qa. n

No one does royal set-pieces like Disney! Here, Cinderella meets her Prince. Fans can sing along with Frozen's Elsa as she lets it all go!

S akura Season

As told to Jorge Granda Images courtesy of The St. Regis Doha

The St. Regis Doha is celebrating its passion for community, education, fashion, food and the arts with a Japanese cultural Cherry Blossom Festival week. Taking place from April 19-25, we take you through the line-up as the Land Of The Rising Sun shines its rays on Qatar!

Cherry blossom or ‘sakura’ season heralds the arrival of spring in Japan, as the island nation becomes awash in the fragrant blooms in what the Japanese Meteorological Agency calls the ‘sakurazensen’ or ‘cherry blossom front’ that moves up the country. The cherry blossom has long captured the attention of poets, artists and an adoring public thanks to its symbolism and the custom of flower-viewing known as hanami

The blossoming begins in Okinawa in January and typically reaches Kyoto and Tokyo at the end of March or the beginning of April. It proceeds into areas at higher altitudes and continues northward, arriving in Hokkaido – the most northerly island of Japan – a few weeks later.

Japanese people pay close attention to these forecasts and turn out in large numbers at parks, shrines, and temples with family and friends to hold flower-viewing parties. Hanami festivals celebrate the beauty of the cherry blossom and, for many, are a chance to relax and enjoy the beautiful view.

Residents of Doha will have the chance to be part of this beautiful celebration with a range of different events organized by The St. Regis hotel in cooperation with the Japanese Embassy, the Japanese Society and the Japanese School of Doha among others

Japan's iconic Mt. Fuji is framed by the delicate flowers of the spring cherry blossoms

FESTIVAL LINE-UP

Kimono Fashion Fusion

Grand Ballroom, Ground Level

Sunday, April 19, 7:00 p.m.: Blending Japanese culture and Qatari couture, The St. Regis Doha presents ‘The Rites of Passage’ kimono show and design collaboration with Sckali Design & Angel Line Abaya. Kimono master, Mrs. Suemi Nishiwaki, presents a kimono show of traditional fashion for women through the ages. In collaboration, local talent Asma Sckali (Sckali Design) and Safia Al Qahtany (Angel Line Abaya) will also unveil a unique collection of designs with heavy influences from Japanese culture and couture. Free entrance. Call 4446-0000 or email diningreservation@stregis.com to reserve your seat as places are limited.

Celebrating Japanese Flavours

Astor Grill

April 19-25, 7:00 p.m. till 12 midnight: Enjoy the flavours of the grill and the taste of world-class Japanese cuisine with a delicious three-course set menu at Astor Grill. Standard set menu is QR 350, with two Chef’s Choice enhancements also on offer, including Kobe beef. For reservations call 4446-0211 or email Astorgrill.Doha@stregis.com.

‘Chakai’ – The Art Of Japanese Tea

Sarab Lounge

April 19-25, 2:30 p.m. till 8:00 p.m.: Enjoy a Japanese Afternoon Tea experience at Sarab Lounge and choose from a selection of Japanese teas and infusions. All Japanese afternoon teas are accompanied by a profusion of traditional Japanese delicacies. A special Tea Ceremony will take place in Sarab Lounge every afternoon only from April 22-25. For reservations call 4446-0000 or email Sarablounge.Doha@stregis.com.

Ikebana Master Class

April 22-23, 11:30 a.m. till 3:00 p.m.: Ikebana is the traditional Japanese art of flower-arranging that has been practiced for more than 600 years. Join Mrs. Hiroko Kitazume for an ikebana master class and take home your own personal arrangement for you and your family to enjoy. The class is followed by a chakai Japanese tea ceremony performance and a special Japanese Afternoon Tea. QR 310 per person, including master class, own flower arrangement and Japanese Afternoon Tea. For reservations call 4446-0000 or email diningreservations@stregis.com.

Japanese Jazz At JALC

JALC Doha

April 20-21, 9:00 p.m. till 1:00 a.m.: Back in Doha to celebrate the distinct culture of his home country, Takeshi Ohbayashi brings ascendant trumpeter and composer Takuya Kuroda, for two very special nights of Japanese-inspired jazz at JALC. Come indulge in their special a la carte and sushi options and take a lively show highlighting the best of Japanese jazz. For reservations call 4446-0226 or email jazzatlincolncenter.doha@stregis.com.

Japanese Friday Brunch

Vine Restaurant

Friday, April 24, 12 noon till 4:00 p.m.: The Japanese Brunch at Vine will satisfy the most refined of palates and, with the usual brunch favourites on offer, there’s no reason to hold back! QR 390 including soft drinks and QR 490 including enhanced beverages. For reservations call 4446-0107 or email Vine.Doha@stregis.com.

Cherry Blossom Family Picnic

On The Lawn

Terrace Lawn

Saturday, April 25, 12:30 noon till 4:00 p.m.: Enjoy a bento box full of authentic Japanese treats and a refreshing welcome drink! In this final celebration of Japanese community and culture, the Japanese School of Doha student drummers and choir join the picnic to entertain and excite – plus there will be some family fun with origami! QR 290 per person for adults and QR 125 for kids, beverage charge upon consumption. For reservations call 4446-0000 or email diningreservations@stregis.com. n

The St. Regis is turning Japanese with a week's worth of cultural offerings

A Japanese ikebana arrangement

See some kimono-inspired creations at Fashion Fusion runway event

That Rich Vibe

Words and images courtesy of Carl Roberts

After a stellar string of parties in March, the Sundowners team is planning some very special treats for the month of April, which will see hot, hip club DJ Alexa Rich remain on the decks alongside Doha favourites Kinky D and Carl Roberts.

The Al Dana terrace at the Sharq Village & Spa is the place to spend your Friday nights since Sundowner Sessions came back with a bang. Having recently celebrated the lounge night’s oneyear anniversary the guys and gals of Sundowners have more in store this spring so party-goers can make the most of their experience. From chic

cocktails and light barbecue bites, to hot sounds and a thrumming dance-floor, consistency and quality are the name of the game at Sundowners.

After expanding into the Al Dana garden so you can feel the grass under your feet, this season they’ve also spilled over into the interior restaurant space with a second dance-floor and bar as an alternative to the terrace.

April kicks off with an All-White Full Moon Party on the 3rd with top local talent lined up, together with a huge surprise international guest. Resident DJs Carl Roberts and Kinky D, regarded as pioneers in the emerging Doha entertainment scene, will be providing the backbone of the aural treats with the evening progressing from chill and lounge-core in the daylight hours through to deep and funky sounds as the evening progresses.

Over the following weeks the cream of DJ-ing talent in the city, as well as special international guests have been enlisted to provide the most diverse and entertaining sounds in the city for each of the individually-themed weekly events.

April will also be showcasing the latest addition to the Sundowner Sessions family, DJ Alexa Rich. Her sound is best described as ‘party music’ and varies from commercial and vocal, to progressive house with a touch of electro, nu-disco, deep house, minimal techno and just about everything in between.

Renowned for mixing in the top club nights in Bahrain, UAE, Morocco, Switzerland, France, Russia, Armenia, Cyprus, and India, Alex has headlined huge events including Sensation White, St. Petersburg and supported the AKON Live show in Dubai.

She was also resident DJ at the FTV Club in Dubai, is booked regularly for celebrity parties including the closing party at the Monaco Rally for Prince Albert of Monaco, and has toured regularly across Europe, Asia and the Middle East. Over the years Alexa has played alongside numerous headlining acts including Akon, David Guetta, Axwell, Ian Carey and Sander Kleinenberg.

The new Sundowner Sessions season on the terrace at Al Dana is the ultimate open-air sunset and Friday night experience. With a relaxed atmosphere and casual dress code, they’ll once again be introducing no entrance fees. So come by and enjoy the Arabian sunset accompanied by the hottest soundtrack and icy cold drinks – the perfect antidote to that Friday feeling. No entrance fees, no VIPs, no attitudes –because lounging is a right, not a privilege. n

For more information visit the Sundowners At Al Dana Terrace Facebook page.

DJ Alexa Rich is back on decks at Sundowners for another month of hot nights and cool sounds!

Fans show their love for the new Sundowners merch

Party Like It’s Saint-Tropez

As told to Jorge Granda Images courtesy of Saint-Tropez

Saint-Tropez threw open its doors with a luxury beach party last month and the members-only label is quickly turning Thursday nights in Doha around. Pairing up with only the trendiest brands in London, New York, Paris and beyond, Saint-Tropez has selected Doha as its next hot-spot. QH takes you behind the velvet rope!

Become A Member

Saint-Tropez is first and foremost a private members club. Membership is complimentary for a limited period but requires applicants to apply on-line at www.Saint-Tropez.events. A membership committee based in London then assesses each application, reviewing your Facebook, LinkedIn and online profiles to determine your suitability to the Saint-Tropez community. The aim is to build a balanced, friendly and respectful community so that members can enjoy a sensational night out.

Saint-Tropez members are gifted with a White & Gold bracelet, an exclusive badge of honour

allowing red-carpet access to each weekly beach event. Members may invite three guests to each beach party who will receive complimentary admission. The next big thing coming soon for members will be invitations to mixologist workshops, tastings, private viewings and fashion shows.

The Sounds Of Saint-Tropez

Saint-Tropez music scouts track down only the best emerging talent combined with a top-of-the-range acoustic array for a rich, distributed sound that you can chat, toe-tap or dance to. If you miss the party, Saint-Tropez will upload their favourite set each week for you to listen to, reminisce and tie you over until Thursday night.

Also, Saint-Tropez mixologists take their cocktails seriously and believe their creation is an art that begins with freshly-pressed fruit, the purest ingredients and an obsession to blend and shake to perfection. All their drinks are half-price before 9:00 pm and members will be invited to private cocktail-making master-classes.

If you would rather upgrade to a VIP table, SaintTropez can elevate you to their raised decking, where you’ll be centre-stage in sumptuous white loungers while their VIP team greets you with a choice of premium bottles, unlimited mixers and scrumptious canapés n

SAINT-TROPEZ

Date: Every Thursday night

Location: Beachfront, Hilton Doha

When: From 8:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m.

Happy Hour: From 8:00 p.m. till 9:00 p.m.

Dress Code: Beach chic

VIP Tables: Call 5566-9387 or email VIP@Saint-Tropez.events

Membership: Currently complimentary, thereafter QR 3,000 per person

Contact Info: Email reception@saint-tropez.events follow Saint.Tropez.Doha on Facebook, visit www.Saint-Tropez.events for membership applications, or call Regional Director Jonathan DeCarteret at 3313-5563.

Readers of Qatar Happening who apply to for membership at www.Saint-Tropez.events and state QH as their proposer will be fast-tracked by the membership committee.

The club night's opening bash

Promising a VIP party experience like no other, we can't argue with the elegant ambiance at Saint-Tropez

America’s Superhero

By Jan Janssen

Interview and selected images courtesy of Viva Press

Robert Downey Jr. steps back into his iron suit as Tony Stark in Avengers: Age Of Ultron, out next month. We sat down with the star to chart his meteoric rise back into Hollywood’s good graces in what’s undoubtedly become one of the most wildly popular roles of his career.

As the highest-paid actor in Hollywood, with a reported $50 million-plus payday for his work in the last Iron Man film, Robert Downey Jr. is basking in the success that has come with sobriety, family, and marriage. The wunderkind actor who nearly destroyed himself with drugs a decade ago, RDJr. is now one of the most popular movie stars on the planet. His self-described "Phoenixlike" rise from the ashes has seen him turn Marvel Studios' Iron Man and Avengers films into a multibillion dollar motion-picture franchise. It's the kind of incredible comeback story that seems staggering even to the man himself.

"Oh, it's mind-blowing," Downey Jr. says. "It's always great to be able to achieve so much more than you or anyone else could have imagined. Even when you're mired in the depths of your own misguided making, you still have hope. I always wanted to do something extraordinary with my life and leave my mark on the world. I'm still ruthlessly ambitious!"

RDJr. returns to his iconic role as Tony Stark, aka Iron Man, in Avengers: Age Of Ultron, the highlyanticipated sequel to the billion-dollar Avengers blockbuster. Joining him in this latest superhero extravaganza are Chris Evans (Captain America), Scarlett Johansson (Black Widow), Chris Hemsworth (Thor), Mark Ruffalo (The Hulk) et al. as well as two new players – Paul Bettany's The Vision and James Spader as the voice of Ultron. Given that The Avengers ranks as the third highest-grossing film of all time with $1.5 billion in global box-office earnings, Hollywood insiders expect that the sequel

may well surpass the $2 billion mark on the back of massive audience expectations.

In Ultron, directed by Joss Whedon, RDJr.'s Tony Stark tries to jump-start a dormant peacekeeping program only to see things go seriously awry. As a result, the familiar legion of superheroes – Captain America, Thor, The Incredible Hulk, Black Widow and Hawkeye – join Iron Man in trying to save Earth from the evil plans of the mysterious Ultron. It has all the makings of an epic superhero adventure that will no doubt see RDJr. juice up the action with his witty asides and devilish charisma.

Avengers: Age of Ultron will mark the fifth time that he has played Tony Stark/Iron Man, and while he's quite aware of what the role has meant to his life and career, this is a brilliant actor who has serious ambitions for what he wants to accomplish down the road. At age 50, RDJr. believes that his Iron Man character has given him carte blanche as far as future film roles are concerned.

"Iron Man has put me in a position to many other things. I originally pursued the film because I had seen Keanu Reeves and Johnny Depp succeed with their own film franchises and I wanted my son to see his dad in that kind of a movie. I wanted it to be the kind of movie you can take your kid to and explore the comic-book hero genre with a mix of escapism and intelligence. I'm also proud of the fact that I'm a leading man who can do major blockbusters and be that Harrison Ford kind of guy. It's not a bad place to be."

This past September, RDJr. gave a hint of things to come when he starred in The Judge, the opening film at the Toronto International Film Festival and which went on to earn co-star Robert Duvall a supporting actor Oscar nomination.

Robert Downey Jr. lives in Los Angeles with his wife, Susan, a major Hollywood producer, and their two young children, Exton, 3, and a baby girl, Avri, born last November. Downey is also father to a son, Indio, now 21, from his previous marriage to actress/model Deborah Falconer. RDJr. has been actively involved in helping Indio deal with drug addiction following his son's arrest for possession and subsequent probationary sentence in September following a 70-stay in rehab.

Robert Downey Jr.'s Iron Man will rise from the ashes to once in Avengers: Age Of Ultron

Robert Downey Jr.'s climb from rock bottom to reclaimed stardom is one of Hollywood's ultimate comeback stories.

QH: Robert, what's life like for you these days?

RDJr: This is another great year for us. It's a wild and exciting moment for [wife] Susan and I. We've been so blessed with the joy that Exton has brought to our lives and now we have another chapter in our family life beginning. It's pure joy to be able to spend hours at a time with your children and having no other thought in your brain except to fully engage and share in that experience.

QH: You've had an extraordinary success with your Tony Stark/Iron Man character. What can you tell us about Avengers: Age of Ultron?

RDJr: Tony's solution [to defending the earth] is what becomes the problem, in a way. That's really kind of interesting..There's that theme of, could it be that we're the problem? Therefore, I can't really say there's a bad guy. I mean, it's hard to call Jimmy Spader [Ultron] a bad guy. He's scary, but his thought is like: I see what's wrong here. And guess what? It's y'all [the Avengers].

QH: Where does Tony Stark fit into the puzzle now?

RDJr: The clues are in Ultron about where we might find him next. What would it take for Tony to completely turn around everything he's stood for, quote-unquote, because he was the right-wing guy who could still do his own thing. When the first Iron Man came out the liberals and conservatives were both like, "You're our guy." "Yes! Score!" But the idea of Tony being able to march into Washington and say, "I'll sign up," wouldn't have made sense if the political climate in the real world hadn't shifted the way it has. It's a little bit of things following a real world continuum in, "What would you do?"

There's always the bigger overarching question, that Joss [director Whedon] brings up all the time – it's kind of weird that these guys would have all these throw-downs all over planet Earth and it looked like a little collateral damage happened over there…and yet when the movie's over, it's like nobody minds. You have to figure, were you to ask the question,

"What would the American government do if this were real?" Wouldn't it be interesting to see Tony doing something you wouldn't imagine?

QH: You're also branching out from your Iron Man duties these days. Your most recent film, The Judge, saw you tackle difficult father-son issues that must have come uncomfortably close to your own reality and your own wellknown issues with your father [film director Robert Downey]?

RDJr: I could start crying right now if I wanted to think really deeply about all the parallels and memories the film evokes for me. My wife thought it would be an important and even therapeutic experience for me to do this film and she was right. As actors we often rely on our subconscious and all our psychological baggage to put ourselves inside our characters, but this story took me deeper into that process. It was good, though. It's good to work those things out and allow them to take you further into your character and into the story.

I think our movie is a celebration of families and how it's possible to reconnect again. Family is the basis for so much of our lives and every day after finishing work on the film I would come home as fast as possible so I could spend time with my son Exton, take him in my arms, and rock him to sleep. That's the kind of effect it had on me.

QH: Was that the reason you and your wife Susan chose The Judge as the first film to be produced by your production company?

RDJr: There were many reasons. It was a beautiful story, a very American story, a bit old-school, like the kinds of films we grew up watching. It reminded me of films like The Verdict and Terms of Endearment and movies we used to see the studios make in the 70s and 80s. Stories which had this sweeping kind of impact and where there was room for strong characters and emotions as well as strong plotting. I felt really caught up in it.

I don't want to get into specifics but I could easily relate to how there came a point where the relationship between Hank and his father

simply came to a stop. There are so many things which can cause families to rip apart and where brothers stop talking to each other or sons and daughters can no longer connect to t heir parents. It's a terrible tragedy, in a sense, that families can't find enough love or tolerance to hold things together.

QH: Was making The Judge a pleasant change of pace from your extended tour of duty as Tony Stark?

RDJr: It was good to take a break between my more overtly capitalistic work. Sometimes you need to get back to deeper kinds of drama and more realistic themes to reinvigorate yourself. I know I'm part of this other machine where I've enjoyed being a good company man and having Tony Stark occupy this strategic place in my career. But I still want to do other kinds of stories and be as creative and passionate in my work as I can be.

QH: You often like to add your input to the dialogue and the filmmaking process. How does that find its way into the Iron Man and Avengers franchise?

RDJr: Well of course I wanted to dominate the process like a rabid gorilla. [Smiles] I want to be a productive and sentient and thinking being when I'm making a movie. I love to improvise and think up interesting ways to make a scene better and usually the directors I work with are responsive or they tell me to shut up if they think my ideas are crap. But conflict and discussion and creative consultation is what leads to a better film.

QH: Your family means so much to you. Will this mean that you're going to want to spend less time working on big action movies like Iron Man and The Avengers down the road?

RDJr: Work is still very important to me. I need to keep myself occupied and not let my mind wander too much when I'm not planning or involved in a project. I know from past experience that work is the best therapy for me. I need that discipline and I also enjoy it as much as I ever have. I never spend much time away from Susan or Exton, and nothing is going to change that in the future. I'm also excited about working on developing our own projects and

being able to find good scripts and maybe by some extreme twist of fate a good role for me. [Laughs]

QH: You've been living healthily for a long time now. How do you keep on that path?

RDJr: You have to learn to help yourself, grow up, and assume responsibility for your life. It's not a simple process. I've had a lot of psychiatrists tell me that "you can't do it alone" and so I've surrounded myself with good people to help me remain healthy and forward-looking. My wife is the foundation of that process. Thanks to her I've been able to turn my life around in every sense. So this is a beautiful chapter in my life and I've been able to bury most of my character defects and throw myself into a space where I take pleasure and joy in basic things.

Susan has given me a structure for living and we love each other as much as any couple can be in love. We've always had this feeling that this is the big relationship and marriage for the rest of our lives till death do us part. We take that responsibility seriously and I've become a better man because of my commitment to taking this journey together with her.

QH: Are you at the place you want to be in terms of your career?

RDJr: I'm in an arena of activity where I now get to work with people I would choose to work with, given my druthers. I think, oftentimes before, that was the missing component.

QH: You seem to be in a good place. Do you feel you've got things figured out now?

RDJr: I live by certain principles and I feel I'm in the process of building a good life with Susan and being a good father. My work helps keep my focus and I pour as much of my energy into my life as I can and it all reflects back on me and that's my way of getting high now. I don't need anything else.

I've reached a point where I know I can live this way, and I am deeply grateful for everything I have today. I was always chasing this elusive kind of joy or happiness when I was younger and I was chronically unhappy. So I learned that real truth and happiness comes from living honourably, responsibly, constructively, and taking care of your family. I know if I follow that path I will get to where I want to be. n

The Avengers: Age Of Ultron cast at the 2014 San Diego Comic-Con

L-R: Co-stars Jeremy Renner (Hawkeye), Chris Hemsworth (Thor), Scarlett Johansson (Black Widow), Robert Downey Jr. (Iron Man). and Mark Ruffalo (The Incredible Hulk)

ENTERTAINMENT

Party

Happenings

By Jorge Granda

Photography by Jessie Palanca

Additional images courtesy of the Marriott Marquis City Center Doha

If you’re in the market for great comfort food, a large beverage menu, upbeat (but not too loud music) and a casual spot to catch up and unwind with colleagues or friends, Glo Cocktail Bar should top your list.

The first time I visited Glo Bar at the Marriott Marquis City Center Doha (back then it was called the Renaissance) was about three years ago. At the time Glo was an okay bar – nothing really special. It had obvious potential to be so much more, but I guess since the hotel was new the management had more interest in making Champions Sports Bar upstairs a success – so the focus was there instead. Still Glo had some sort of charm; it’s always been a nice place to have a quick drink before heading up to any of the restaurants in the hotel. I always liked the hassle-free and intimate ambiance of the place – you step inside and you’re a world away from the noise and traffic jams of West Bay.

For some time, the cocktail bar was overshadowed by Champions, but now I’m confident in saying that it’s come into its own as one of the nicest outlets in the Marriott Marquis and a very cool bar overall. A quick look around reveals a dark-toned space, with walls plastered full of blue neon lights and dark wood elements. Three elevated tables with high wooden chairs can be spotted on the right as soon as you walk in, with the lit-up bar located opposite. As you make your way further into its cosy recesses, you’ll find comfortable, spacious red sofas between the wooden pillars and adjacent boothstyle couches. The ceiling is covered with tiny blue lights that resemble a psychedelic sky, creating an atmosphere that’s tranquil yet sophisticated.

On Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays they have a DJ rocking the decks and the music is right on the money, with dance and club tunes that deftly capture Glo’s new, upbeat mood. There’s also a big selection of cocktails to choose from the menu. I would recommend trying the 60-day aged Old Fashioned which is served and poured from its own unique cask, their signature Vanilla & Ginger and the ubiquitous, albeit delicious mojito. In terms of food Glo’s stepped it up a notch – forget about the standard cheese-sticks and lousy food. They’ve now got a conceptualized new menu offering some serious quality indulgences. The dynamite shrimp, Argentine tenderloin and the beef sliders are the way to go if you’re peckish.

On the service front, the waiters don’t take long to bring you the drinks and food –in general they’re fairly quick and efficient. A member of staff is always within distance so there’s no issue in drawing their attention. My verdict is that the ambiance is great, and they’ve got an awesome bartender and approachable staff – plus the music is fantastic, and the décor classy. Glo is a good spot to share more than one drink and a few laughs with friends any night of the week.

Happenings At Glo

Ladies Night

Ladies indulge every Wednesday from 5:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. at Glo, with a selection of house beverages and a special concoction every month. For ladies only enjoy the 2-for-1 Happy Hour from 8:00 p.m. till 9:00 p.m., plus a special drinks menu starting at QR 25 for ladies. Entry is free and there are treats and surprises on your way out!

After-Brunch Sessions

Because brunch without an after-brunch session is just a lunch! Join in after brunch at Glo Cocktail Bar and groove to the sounds of their guest DJs spinning the latest hits. Free entry. For more information call 4419-6100 or visit www.marriottmarquisdohadining.com. n

With a revamped menu and stellar new ladies night, Glo Cocktail Bar is back on our radar!

New on the menu, Glo's dynamite shrimp pack quite a punch!

A trio of signature sliders hits the spot

QH BRINGS YOU THE TOP STAFF PICKS FROM THE MEGASTORE

NAME: MEAZA BEKELE

STORE SECTION: MUSIC

TIME AT VIRGIN: 9 MONTHS

Best Part of My Job:“Just listening to the music and playing and exploring a range of different songs – I really like to do that!”

1989 TAYLOR SWIFT

The 25-year-old songstress has been on a meteoric rise up the charts since the release of her Grammy Award-winning album Fearless in 2008. Now, with her latest album offering, she’s leaving her contemporaries in the dust with tracks such as ‘Shake It Off’, ‘Blank Space’ and ‘Style’. What can we say? Haters gonna hate, but we still love ya Taylor! Retail price: QR 60.

VEGAS SESSIONS GLOBAL DJS

This is a double-whammy collection celebrating the planet’s biggest dance DJs. There’s some Tiesto, Avicii and Calvin Harris for starters, with a bit of Showtek, Sigma and Deadmau5 thrown in for good measure, plus dozens more. This is a party compilation if ever there was one – so pump it loud. Retail price: QR 110 for double-disc set.

X

ED SHEERAN

NAR HELWA 3 WALEED AL SHAMI

Iraqi musician and composer Waleed Al Shami has become one of the Arab world’s most successful male pop-stars. His flavour of contemporary Arab music has garnered him a huge fan following and some serious radio rotation. This is his sixth studio release and so far we’ve had his ‘Ahebah Kolesh’ single on repeat. Retail price: QR 60.

WAEL WAEL KFOURY

The Lebanese heartthrob is back with his 15th studio album – yes, you read that right, a whopping one-five. As prolific as they come, Wael has been making music non-stop for the last 20 years and his latest release features current hits ‘El Gharam El Moustahil’ and ‘Kifik Ya Wajaai’. Retail price: QR 60.

After last month’s rocking show at QNCC, if you haven’t yet picked up a copy of Ed Sheeran’s latest album X (pronounced ‘multiply’) clearly you need to reevaluate your musical priorities. The young singer/ songwriter has been blasting up the charts with hits like ‘Don’t’, ‘Sing’ and ‘Thinking Out Loud’, and this latest release has been getting more airplay than we know what’s good for! Retail price: QR 60 and QR 85 with extra three-song bonus track disc.

Spotlight On Movies

Spring has sprung and so have the big-budget Hollywood hits! Here’s our top five for April.

PAUL BLART: MALL COP 2 FURIOUS 7

Action | Crime | Thriller

Has this franchise really spawned a whopping seven films already? In this latest sequel, Deckard Shaw (Jason Statham) seeks revenge against Dominic Toretto (Vin Diesel) and his family for the death of his brother, hit-man and former Special Forces Agent Owen Shaw.

Stars: Vin Diesel, Paul Walker, Dwayne Johnson

QH Fun Fact: Actually, there’s nothing ‘fun’ about this one. Sadly, Furious 7 is actor Paul Walker’s last film before his untimely death in a single vehicle accident in 2013.

Action | Comedy

Everyone’s favourite rent-a-cop on a Segway is back for more mall mischief. After six years of keeping our malls safe, Paul Blart has earned a well-deserved vacation. He heads to Vegas with his teenage daughter before she goes off to college. But safety never takes a holiday and when duty calls, Blart answers.

Stars: Kevin James, Raini Rodriguez, Eduardo Verástegui

QH Fun Fact: Star Kevin James met his wife Steffania De La Cruz on a blind date set up by his interior decorator!

Drama | Thriller

This is one gritty and dark film that crime-drama fans will flock to. A disgraced member of the military police investigates a series of chilling murders during the Stalin-era Soviet Union.

Stars: Tom Hardy, Gary Oldman, Noomi Rapace

QH Fun Fact: The late Phillip Seymour Hoffmann was meant to play the character of Major Kuzmin. After his death, the role was given to French actor Vincent Cassel.

MONKEY KINGDOM

Documentary

This Disney nature documentary follows a newborn monkey and its mother as they struggle to survive within the competitive social hierarchy of the Temple Troop, a dynamic group of monkeys who live in ancient ruins found deep in the storied jungles of South Asia.

Directors: Mark Linfield and Alastair Fothergill

QH Fun Fact: Filmed in Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka, actor Nicholas Cage does the voice-over narration for one of the monkeys!

Drama | Romance

A young woman, born at the turn of 20th century, is rendered ageless after an accident. After years of a solitary life, she meets a man who might be worth losing her immortality.

Stars: Blake Lively, Harrison Ford, Michiel Huisman

QH Fun Fact: Actresses Natalie Portman and Katherine Heigl both turned down the lead role of Adaline Bowman before the directors finally settled on Gossip Girl’s Blake Lively.

ENTERTAINMENT Listings

The Beatles Tribute April 27: Jazz Club. Sing your heart out and relive the greatest hits of The Beatles. Be part of this tribute on Monday, April 27 from 9:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. Love is all you need so head to the Jazz Club and don’t miss your chance to honour the legendary band. For more information call 4402-3333.

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

SPECIAL PROMOTIONS

CROWNE PLAZA DOHA –THE BUSINESS PARK

The Race Is On!

All month: Misturado. The hotel brings to you the opportunity of a lifetime to see one of the region’s Formula 1 Grand Prix races live – plus watch the season final this November 2015. All you need to do is pit-stop at Mistuardo at least 12 times this Formula One season and get your stamp during any of the 20 races to win two VIP tickets for the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix including flights, accommodation and race tickets. For more information call 4408-7788.

HILTON DOHA

Happy Hours

Daily: Blanco. Blanco rooftop lounge is your new after-work piece of heaven. Enjoy relaxing lounge music, shisha, drinks and gourmet bites with unbeatable views of the Gulf. Enjoy a 50% discount on selected beverages and complimentary snacks. From 5:00 p.m. till 8:00 p.m. For more information call 4423-3413.

Straight From Space

April 23: High Heels Lounge. The famous DJ Camilo Franco is coming from Space Ibiza to High Heels Lounge in Doha for one night only. Free entrance. For more information call 4423-3413.

LA VARENNE

Happy Hour Aperitif

Sun-Thurs: 28th Floor, Tornado Tower. Enjoy a selection from the signature hors d’oeuvres and dessert trolley with a selected beverage, all for QR 40. From 5:00 p.m. till 7:00 p.m. For more information call 4499-0680.

MARRIOTT MARQUIS CITY CENTER DOHA

Let’s Get Quizzical

April 13: Champions. Join Champions for the best quiz night in Doha with a maximum of six contestants per team to win the first prize of QR 3,000. Free entry. From 7:30 p.m. till 9:30 p.m. For more information call 4419-6100 or visit www.marriottmarquisdohadining.com.

MARSA MALAZ KEMPINSKI

Signature Molecular Creations

Daily: Bohemia. Bohemia is a lounge that oozes sophistication and is surrounded by luxury and comfort. The lounge offers the finest selection of molecular creations to ensure the experience is as unique and spectacular as the setting itself. Bohemia is the place to be for those who dare to explore and experiment during their beverage adventures. From 5:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. For more information call 4035-5011, email restaurants.marsamalaz@kempinski.com, or visit www.kempinski.com/marsamalaz.

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

MÖVENPICK HOTEL DOHA

Perfect Match

All-Month: Jazz Up. If you consider yourself a connoisseur of the finer things in life, sit back and relax at Jazz Up while sipping one of their fine imported vinos. For every bottle of vino purchased in April, guests will be presented with a complimentary cheese platter and a rich variety of international cheeses and condiments. Vino prices start from QR 145 per bottle. For more information call 4429-1111.

RADISSON BLU Quiz Night

April 27: Shehrazad.Take part with your team in the monthly quiz night and enter for the chance to win dinner vouchers. For more information call 4428-1555 or email fbreservations.doha@radissonblu.com.

THE GRAND HYATT Groove Office

April 9: Dunes. Mark April 9 on your calendar for a night of the funkiest nine-piece band collective in town, made up of some of Doha's finest musicians, including former members of Supa Fat and DJ Santiago. QR 50 for ladies and QR 100 for gents. For more information call 7021-8094.

REGULAR PROMOTIONS

CROWNE PLAZA DOHA –THE BUSINESS PARK Shaken Or Stirred?

Mondays: Liquidity. The hotel invites you to chill-out at Doha’s favourite rooftop lounge while sipping freshly-made drinks and listening to funky beats from their resident DJ. From 8:00 p.m. onwards. For more information call 4408-7788.

Ladies First

Thurs, Fri & Sat: Liquidity. It’s lovely being a lady! Find out why every weekend at Liquidity. QR 50 for the ladies with unlimited sips plus one bite, and QR 100 for the gents with one sip and one bite. From 8:00 p.m. till 12:00 midnight. For more information call 4408-7777.

DOHA MARRIOTT

Happy Hour At Pearl Lounge

Daily: The Pearl Lounge. Unwind in chic and elegant surroundings at the Doha Marriott’s conveniently located, exclusive Pearl Lounge. Enjoy their daily happy hour with 2 for 1 on selected drinks from 5:00 p.m. till 8:00 p.m. For more information call 44429-8444.

ORYX ROTANA

ENTERTAINMENT Listings

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA

Big Night Out

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

Lava Theme Nights

Sundays: Lava welcomes you to the world of Arabian nights. DJ Alex is on the decks to play the best of khaliji hits, plus the latest Arabic and English commercial dance mixes to move you all night. Enjoy and have fun till late with the best in Oriental and English music, alongside the usual quality cocktails and service from Lava.

Mondays: Urban Diva Night with DJ Shadi. Enjoy two free drinks for ladies and no entrance fee from 10:00 p.m. till late.

Tuesdays: Your Tuesday night is about to get much hotter. Lava offers an open bar for all female cabin crew with DJ Shadi on the decks playing the latest top house music mash-ups.

Thursdays: Vibe Nights with their resident DJ. Fridays: Martini Madness with DJ Shadi playing his top-class house music, mash-ups, R&B and hip-hop. Come down to every Friday night as they bring you an evening of high-quality music alongside the usual quality cocktails and service from Lava! (Ladies get two Lava special martinis all night).

Saturdays: Themed parties every Saturday night. Doors open from 8:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. For more information call 4484-4919 or 4484-4444.

Happy Hour

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

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA THE CITY

Pink Wednesday

Wednesdays: Strata. This isn’t your ordinary ladies night – it’s a designer label ladies night! Ladies will enjoy a special complimentary welcome drink from 9:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. every Wednesday, along with chances to win fabulous prizes including various designer label items. Want a pair of Christian Louboutins or a Louis Vuitton? Then Pink Wednesday at Strata might be your lucky night! Free entrance for ladies, QR 75 entrance for men after 10:00 p.m. Dress code: elegant. For more information call 4015-8888.

After-Work Evenings

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

Bucket Day

Fridays: Hive. Quench your thirst with a bucket of six brews for the price of QR 175 or a cocktail bucket for QR 150, while listening to funky tunes. Also, perform your favourite song for the crowd from 10:00 p.m. till 12:00 midnight. For more information call 4015-8888.

Super Saturdays

Saturdays: Hive. Gather the boys and get down to Hive on Saturday to enjoy the best the Premier League has to offer, while indulging in a 20% discount on food items and a brew bucket promotion of six bottles for QR 175. For more information call 4015-8888.

KEMPINSKI RESIDENCES & SUITES

Loose Tie

Sundays: The Lounge. Imagine Cuban flavour surrounded by well-aged oak barrels and a touch of perfection...sounds tempting? Come and join your fellow connoisseurs on Sunday evenings at The Lounge from 8:00 p.m. till 12:00 midnight. For more information call 4405-3325, email restaurants.doha@kempinski.com, or visit www.kempinski.com/doha.

Cosmopolitan Ladies Night

Mondays: The Lounge. Cosmopolitan ladies night at The Lounge offers 50% off on the cosmopolitan special drinks menus and a complimentary choice from the nibbles menu. From 8:00 p.m. till 12:00 midnight. For more information call 4405-3325, email restaurants.doha@kempinski.com, or visit www.kempinski.com/doha.

Tuesdays With Kéyali

Tuesdays: The Lounge. Kéyali Mayaga and her co-performers take the stage at The Lounge and are set to captivate you with a collection of her favourite songs. Join them by the candle-lit bar with its signature ambiance for nights of true musical indulgence. From 9:30 p.m. till 11:30 p.m. For more information call 4405-3325, email restaurants.doha@kempinski.com, or visit. www.kempinski.com/doha.

LA CIGALE

Ladies Night With DJ Tony Shweiry

Sundays: Madison Piano Bar. Ladies night is back at Madison Piano Bar! Save your Sundays for the most vibrant ladies nights with DJ/VJ Tony Shweiry! And that’s not all – you’ll get one complimentary welcome drink on the house. Open from 6:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. Membership required. For more information call 4428-8665 or 5518-8008.

MARRIOTT MARQUIS

CITY CENTER DOHA

Ladies Night

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

Music Fridays!

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

MÖVENPICK HOTEL DOHA

Be Entertained At Jazz Up

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

ORYX ROTANA

DJ Night

Saturdays: Jazz Club. One of Doha’s best DJs will be playing all the hot new tunes and introducing a new twist to the Jazz Club. For more information call 4402-3333.

Ladies Night

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

SHARQ VILLAGE & SPA Sundowner Sessions

Fridays: Al Dana terrace. The much beloved lounge night makes its comeback on the Al Dana terrace. Doha's sunset spot comes to life every Friday with very special DJs and guests. Entry is free. From 4:00 p.m. till 1:00 a.m. For more information call 4425-6666.

Beirut Nights

Thursdays: Al Dana terrace. Enjoy the best of local specialties and expertly-crafted cocktails as the DJ sets the scene with the latest dance music. A la carte and regular menus are both available. From 6:30 p.m. till 1:00 a.m. For more information call 4425-6666.

SHERATON DOHA

Midnight Happy Hour

Sun-Wed: Irish Harp. Gather with friends and discover a little bit of Ireland right here in Doha with a dining menu that includes Irish favourites. Every day from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. join in for Happy Hour! And now, don’t miss the new midnight Happy Hour from Sunday to Wednesday from 11:00 p.m. till 12:00 midnight, where selected beverages start from QR 25 to QR 30. For more information call 4485-3000.

THE GRAND HYATT

A1 Nights By Xtremer Entertainment

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

THE RITZ-CARLTON Hospitality Night

Daily: Habanos. Hotel professionals and airline crews enjoy a 25% savings on selected menu items. From 8:15 p.m. till 12:30 midnight. For more information call 4484-8504, or email rc.dohrz.leads@ritzcarlton.com.

Cigar Night

Fridays: Habanos. Enjoy a 25% savings on all cigar selections. From 5:00 p.m. till 12:45 midnight. For more information call 4484-8504, or email rc.dohrz.leads@ritzcarlton.com.

THE ST. REGIS DOHA

Ladies Night

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

Jam Night

Wednesdays: Start your Wednesday night out with your friends at Jazz at Lincoln Center Doha. Led by trumpeter Dominick Farinacci, musicians and vocalists of all styles come together for an impromptu and eclectic jam session. Changing every week, Wednesdays are full of musical surprises! Buy-one-get-one-free (choice of selected beverages). From 7:00 p.m. till 10:00 p.m. For more information call 4446-0000.

Ladies On The Roof

Wednesdays: The Rooftop. Enjoy a fabulous ladies night al fresco on the one-and-only rooftop. Buy-oneget-one-free on selected beverages. From 5:00 p.m. till 8:00 p.m. For more information call 4446-0226 or e-mail rooftop.doha@stregis.com.

W DOHA

‘The VIBE’ Ladies Night

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

Kiss N’ Fly Ladies Night

Wednesdays: Crystal. Every Wednesday, Crystal hosts Doha’s favourite Ladies Night with resident DJ Tobias Sabido mixing up the latest tunes. Ladies get three free drinks. From 10:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. For more information call 4453-5353.

Arabesque Night

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

ENTERTAINMENT Directory

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

Admiral’s Club

The Ritz-Carlton 4448-4800

Beach Bar Lounge

The Four Seasons 4494-8888

Belgian Café InterContinental Doha 4484-4444

Bohemia Marsa Malaz Kempinski 4035-5555

Bubbles on Two Radisson Blu 4428-1428

Champions

Marriott Marquis City Center Doha 4419-6100

Cigar Lounge

Sharq Village & Spa 4425-6666

Club 7 La Cigale 4428-8888

Crystal Lounge W Doha 4453-5135

D’Illusion Gokulam Park 4470-8888

Dunes The Grand Hyatt 4448-1234

Fahrenheit Horizon Manor Hotel 4445-5444

Glo Cocktail Bar

Marriott Marquis City Center Doha 4419-6100

Habanos

The Ritz-Carlton 4484-8000

Hive

InterContinental Doha The City 4015-8888

Jazz At Lincoln Center Doha The St. Regis Doha 4446-0000

The Jazz Club Oryx Rotana 4402-3333

Jazz Up Mövenpick Hotel Doha 4429-1111

Krossroads Horizon Manor Hotel 4445-5444

Lava Lounge InterContinental Doha 4484-4444

Le Club Mercure Grand Hotel 4446-2222

Level 23

The Ritz-Carlton 4448-4800

Liquidity

Crowne Plaza DohaThe Business Park 4408-7777

Madison Piano Bar La Cigale 4428-8888

Manhattan Radisson Blu 4428-1428

Misturado

Crowne Plaza DohaThe Business Park 4408-7777

Orion Radisson Blu 4428-1428

Oyster Bay & Bar The St. Regis Doha 4446-0105

Paloma InterContinental Doha 4484-4444

Pearl Lounge Doha Marriott

4429-8888

Qube Radisson Blu 4428-1428

Rocca The Grand Hyatt 4448-1234

Shehrazad Radisson Blu 4428-1428

Sky View La Cigale 4428-8888

Spike’s Lounge Doha Golf Club

Splash Oryx Rotana

4496-0777

4402-3333

Strata Lounge InterContinental Doha The City 4015-8888

The Irish Harp Sheraton Doha 4485-4444

The Library Radisson Blu 4428-1428

The Library Bar & Cigar Lounge The Four Seasons

4494-8888

The Lounge Kempinski Residences & Suites 4405-3325

Vintage Lounge The St. Regis Doha 4446-0105

Wahm W Doha 4453-5353

Wahm Lounge The W Doha

Champions Sports Bar The Renaissance Doha City Center

Vintage Lounge The St. Regis Doha

ARTS & CULTURE Top Picks

QATAR MUSEUMS

Now Open: The Fire Station

Ongoing: The renovated Civil Defence Building, known locally as Doha’s Fire Station, has recently been transformed to host a new artists-in-residence program. Fire Station: Artists in Residence fulfills a key part of Qatar Museum’s commitment to nurturing emerging talent by offering local artists opportunities to develop best practice by providing a platform for the exchange of ideas. The artists-in-residence program, due to open later in 2015, will support local artists by providing 20 studios and gallery spaces. For more information visit www.firestation.org.qa.

MATHAF

Wael Shawky: Cabaret Crusades and Other Stories

Until April 16: Ground floor galleries. Egyptian artist Wael Shawky produces spectacular film series based on literature and historical narratives, using a visual language that mixes fictional storytelling and documentary styles. This exhibition presents two newly completed film trilogies, each inspired by stories and scripts of literature, with over fifty ceramic and glass marionettes from the Cabaret Crusades, and drawings from both series share insight on the making of the films. For more information visit www.mathaf.org.qa.

QATAR TURKEY 2015

History And Identity: Literary Majlis With Iskender Pala

April 28: Museum Of Islamic Art Atrium. This event is part of Qatar Turkey 2015 and will be exploring the rich, intricate world of Turkish Divan literature. Known as ‘The People’s Poet’ in Usak, literary giant Iskender Pala will inspire audiences through discussion on the significance of historical narratives in identity construction along with the responsibilities of non-fiction novelists in their contribution to society’s historical memory. For more information visit www.qm.org.qa.

QATAR PHILHARMONIC ORCHESTRA Night Of The Proms

April 3: Ceremonial court, Education City. Part of The British Festival 2015 featuring renowned Scottish conductor Bob Ross with soprano Felicitas Fuchs and Kirill Bogatyrev on cello. With selections from George Gershwin’s Porgy & Bess: Summertime, I Got Rhythm, John Williams’ Harry Potter: Hedwig´s Theme, plus many more.Show starts at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are QR 75-QR 200 and can be purchased at Virgin Megastores, online at tickets.virginmegastore.me or at the Katara Opera House. For more information visit www.qatarphilharmonicorchestra.org.

AL MARKHIYA GALLERY Distant Dreams Exhibition

Until April 4: Building 5, Katara Art Center. This engaging exhibit will feature works from Iraqi artists Fahtel Neema and Qahtan Ibrahim Alameen. Exhibition opens from 7:00 p.m. For more information visit www.almarkhiyagallery.com.

Artwork by Qahtan Ibrahim Alameen

Animal Tales

By Ujwala Thirumurthy

Selected photography by Jessie

Palanca

Additional images courtesy of Qatar Museums

A new exhibit launching this month at the Museum of Islamic Art explores the role of animal fables in Islamic art. QH gets ready to meet some truly Marvellous Creatures!

When was the last time you visited a museum? Has it ever been on your list of must-see places? No? Then, why not ditch that trip to the mall and head to the Museum of Islamic Art? Why, you ask? For centuries now, museums all over the world have served as a source of historical and cultural information about a city and its society. They bring together the past, present and future in a form which undeniably is the creative, most efficient way to preserve cultural and historical identity of a people.

The Museum of Islamic Art is more than just art; it glorifies art manifested in every form including architecture, objects of historical importance and even…folktales and animal fables.

The exhibition, aptly titled Marvellous Creatures, and currently on at the MIA Special Exhibitions Gallery, is quite simply ‘marvellous’. It focuses on the real and mythical animals that feature in the legends, tales and fables of the Islamic world, and introduces the well-known beloved classics Kalilawadimna, Shahnameh, and the One Thousand and One Nights

Get ready to be transported into a whole new mythical world that keeps you engaged right to the finish. Divided into the natural quadrants of fire, air, earth and water, these creatures cleverly portrayed as illustrations through a light box and in objects dating thousands of years ago, make it an unforgettable sensory experience. It’s then quite obvious why it’s believed that museums give an interpretation of history and how to view the world and locate ourselves in it. They are, in themselves, great educational institutions – and perhaps the

reason why this exhibition in particular is made to be child-friendly.

Dr. Leslee Michelsen, Head of Curatorial Research at MIA, says: “We want to see more families bring in children to help them experience the visual and creative side of learning. You bring a child to a museum once, chances are they’ll want to come back.”

We couldn’t agree more; in a city that’s being taken over by malls, it’s only fair to give children what they truly deserve apart from walking miles and miles around endless stores and food courts.

Puppet shows by the Istanbul Karagoz Puppet Foundation, creative art workshops where children can create their own marvelous creatures, and even a theatre with narrations of the fables in nine languages are just some of the activities that accompany the exhibit.

But behind all these wonderful activities and the amazing presentation of the exhibition itself, is a team that has worked tirelessly to put together every piece of the puzzle from content to execution.

“We are a team of 45-50 including those that are directly involved, like the electricians, the cleaners, and all those who make sure that every detail is accurate,” Dr. Michelsen explains. “Having worked on this exhibition for the past two years, which included tremendous amounts of research and detailed study, the team is very pleased with the reviews received on its opening night, and we hope the rest of the journey will see more visitors who will have learned something new.”

So, what sparked the idea of bringing creatures from ancient Islamic fables to life? An Islamic art historian, Dr. Michelsen was always interested in the use of tangible objects as a method of teaching.

Merely looking into a book is nothing like looking at the real thing. Recreating these ancient stories is a way of reaching out to audiences and highlighting the fact that exhibitions need not always be about kings and queens. "The fact that the exhibition has been conceptualized and developed wholly in Qatar, except for the exhibition designer from Spain, makes

it that much more special," she says. While leading you on through this amazing journey of light and sound, the exhibition brings you closer to the characters in each of the fables with its simple, yet brilliant narration and visuallystunning illustrations.”

Needless to say, it brings to life a lost world in a way that will be remembered for a long time, proving once again that a museum is a powerhouse of knowledge that never goes out of style. n

The Marvellous Creatures exhibit is on display in the MIA Special Exhibitions Gallery until July 11, 2015. Entry is free and timings are as follows: Sun, Mon & Wed, 10:30 a.m. till 5:30 p.m., Thurs & Sat, 12:00 noon till 8:00 p.m., Friday, 2:00 p.m. till 8:00 p.m., Tues, closed. For a full list of educational activities call 4422-4444 or visit www.mia.org.qa.

Dr. Leslee Michelsen, Head of Curatorial Research at MIA

Ancient Islamic folktales are kept alive through items and artifacts on display at MIA

The Marvellous Creatures exhibit takes visitors on a journey through Islamic folklore to the crossroads where animals and mythology meet

Polychrome Underglaze Painted Dish with Hare Motif Ottoman, Turkey (Iznik) 16th century Fritware, polychrome pigments, glaze MIA.PO.6. 1997

ARTS & CULTURE Listings

QH RECOMMENDS

MUSEUM OF ISLAMIC ART

Marvellous Creatures: Animal Fables In Islamic Art

Ongoing: Special Exhibitions Gallery, 1st Floor. This exhibition focuses on the real and mythical animals that appear in the legends, tales and fables of the Islamic world. Divided into the natural quadrants of earth, air, fire and water, these marvelous creatures introduce timeless stories such as the well-known and beloved classics Shahnameh, Kalilawa Dimna, and The Thousand and One Nights. The variety of objects presented in this exhibition – manuscripts, textiles, ceramics, jewelry, glass and metalwork – ranging from the 10th to the 19th centuries, demonstrates the enduring appeal of these characters and stories across diverse cultures. Entry is free. For more information call 4422-4444 or visit www.mia.org.qa.

ONE OF A KIND

MUSEUM OF ISLAMIC ART

Qajar Women: Images Of Women

In 19th Century Iran

Opens April 8: Temporary Exhibitions Gallery, 4th Floor. This exhibition demonstrates the centrality of women in the artistic expression of 19th century Iran and how it continues to inspire contemporary artists. The most popular representations of the Qajar era have been of male sovereigns, whose life-size portraits exaggerate masculinity to depict power. Yet this era also saw a period of artistic modernization in Iran, particularly in paintings and photography, in which depictions of women became essential elements of the scenes. Showcasing women at the court, and in private, alongside images of female musicians and aristocratic women, this exhibition explores rarely-told narratives of the Qajar artistic tradition. Free entry. For more information call 4422-4444 or visit www.mia.org.qa.

AL MARKHIYA GALLERY

Spring Exhibitions

April 21-May 30: Souq Waqif. Syrian artists Adel Khalaf and Wassim Marzouki will be showcasing a selection of their prolific works of art. From Khalaf’s poignant paintings that explore themes of identity, to the technical drawing style of Marzouki the exhibition is a unique perspective of each artist’s world view. For more information visit www.almarkhiyagallery.com.

QATAR MUSEUMS

Ismail Azzam: For Them Exhibition

April 25-August 31: Building 10, QM Gallery, Katara. This exhibition will highlight Ismail Azzam’s distinctive portraits of painters and sculptors who have made a significant contribution to Arab art, with the entire body of work created exclusively for this show in Doha. For more information visit www.qm.org.qa.

QATAR PHILHARMONIC ORCHESTRA

Schumann’s Rhenish Symphony

April 11: Building 16, Opera House, Katara. With conductor Fawzi Haimor leading the QPO, and soloist Julien Labro on accordion the performance will cover a selection of works including Richard Strauss’s Don Juan, TrV 15b, Op. 20; Julien Labro’s Apricity, Concerto for Accordion and Orchestra, and Robert Schumann’s Rhenish Symphony No. 3 in E Flat Major, Op. 97. Show starts at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are QR 75-QR 200 and can be purchased at Virgin Megastores, online at tickets.virginmegastore.me or at the Katara Opera House. For more information visit www.qatarphilharmonicorchestra.org.

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

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

EVERY WEEK

MATHAF

Mathaf Collection: Summary, Part 1

Ongoing: Permanent Exhibitions, First-Floor Galleries. The collection of Mathaf: Arab Museum of Modern Art is the largest of modern and contemporary art in the region. Established in the early 1990s, it continues to grow and today contains more than 8,000 objects from the Arab world, Iran, Turkey and other regions historically connected to the Arab Peninsula. Summary, Part 1 inaugurates the permanent display of Mathaf’s collection in the second-floor galleries with a first selection of 100 artists to give an overview of its breadth. The curatorial concept looks beyond traditional linear histories of art to highlight diverse attitudes, and contextualizes intellectual production within multiple modernities. For more information visit www.mathaf.org.qa.

IAID

Contemporary Dance For Ladies

Mon & Fri: Hilal St., Al-Tadamon Signal, D-Ring Road. Contemporary dance is a modern version of ballet, featuring expressive movement, improvisation and physical coordination. Considered a ‘concert’ dance, its elements of discipline and focus logically follow those associated with ballet. Students will be encouraged to push new boundaries, discover versatility and minimize tension in the search for clarity and fluidity. For more information call 4432-0974/4441-1234, visit www.iaidonline.org, or email enquire@iaidonline.org.

'Prince Dara Shikoh Riding A Royal Elephant' from a Royal Album of Shah Jahan Mughal, India, 1628–30 CE, Artist: Balchand, Ink, opaque watercolour, and gold on paper, MIA.MS.51.2007

COMMUNITY Top Picks

DOHA SCOTTISH DANCING CLUB Dance Classes

April 20 & 27: Doha English Speaking School. Those with an interest in participating in one of Scotland’s most traditional forms of dance can join the Doha Scottish Dancing Club for lessons. Classes are held from 7:00 p.m. till 9:00 p.m. on Mondays every month. The cost is QR 20 per class and there is no additional registration fee or membership requirement. Bring soft shoes and a bottle of water to stay hydrated. For more information email dohascottishdancing@gmail.com, or request to join the club’s Facebook page.

MUSEUM OF ISLAMIC ART

MIA Park Bazaar

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

QATAR TOASTMASTERS

Youth Public Speaking Championship Semi-Finals

April 17: Since 2000, the Qatar Toastmasters have been hosting this yearly English-language championship for youth between the ages of 13 and 18. The semi-final round of the 18th Qatar Open Public Speaking Championship will be held on April 17, and the finale on May 8. The regular monthly Qatar Toastmasters meeting will be held on April 19 at the Radisson Blu from 7:00 p.m. till 9:30 p.m. To register visit www.qatartoastmasters.org.

DOHA MUMS

Easter Celebrations

All-Month: Hop into Easter with Doha Mums as they offer members a range of Easter-inspired activities for the children to enjoy. There’s ceramic and boiled-egg painting, plastic and chocolate egg-hunting, bunny-themed decoration classes, baked goods decoration classes and loads more. Attendance is members-only. For more information on how to join email attend@dohamums.com.

DOHA TWEETUPS

Monthly Networking

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

Smiles Of Friendship

By Shahmim Akram

Photography by Jessie Palanca

Additional images courtesy of Best Buddies Qatar

QH was recently invited to join Best Buddies Qatar (BBQ) at their annual Carnival Festival of Friends to celebrate its national Pen Pal Program. We learn more about the group’s important work in a shared environment of fun, friendship and social acceptance.

The popular nursery rhyme, ‘If You’re Happy And You Know It’, played loudly as local schoolgirls waited in anticipation for the festival to begin. Arranged by Best Buddies Qatar (BBQ), with the support of Qatar Foundation for Education & Science, this spring gathering is a vital part of the organization’s events calendar. Over 170 students took part in varied activities including cookie decorating, salad-making, henna design and face-painting.

Bright rays of sunlight shone through the Recreation Center’s glass ceiling as the students energetically clapped while a magician delivered an interactive show and, with the help of a few of the students, he produced doves out of thin air and levitated tables – even I was impressed. I couldn’t help but smile along as I was moved by the obvious friendships between the schoolgirls and their fellow peerbuddies. This atmosphere of social inclusion is all thanks to the hard work of the employees of BBQ and their partner schools.

Running successfully for seven years, BBQ encourages students, both with and without intellectual and developmental disabilities, to foster mutual understanding and learning with an emphasis on equality. BBQ focuses upon building deep friendships, helping to train and support individuals, and encouraging peer support at all educational levels through its many programs including Best Buddies Colleges, Jobs and e-Buddies.

The Pen Pal program provides resources and support to schoolchildren from 15 local schools, including the Shafallah Center for Children with Special Needs. The aim is to connect children between the ages of seven to 13 through the exchange of letters, which also helps to improve their writing skills. Letters are exchanged at least three times during the school year, while activities and events are also held to further encourage peer friendships.

“People with intellectual disabilities are often excluded from society because of their differences,” explains Laalei Abu Alfain, Executive Manager at BBQ. “Best Buddies Qatar is determined to end social isolation for people with intellectual disabilities by establishing meaningful, lasting one-to-one friendships with their peers without intellectual disabilities. These friendships help to increase self-esteem, confidence and the abilities of people with and without intellectual disabilities.”

Catching the eye of a student having her face painted with a flower I raised a ‘thumbs-up’ as she smiled back shyly. Children are not aware of societal exclusion based upon disabilities; rather they focus upon the innocence of play and friendships. And it is events like this that Laalei refers to when she expresses the success of BBQ as bringing smiles to the faces of all its members.

The activities available at the Carnival Festival of Friends all had a level of interactivity so as to encourage the children to enjoy their time together in an inclusive learning environment and to build lasting friendships and happy memories.

“Nowadays Best Buddies Qatar opened its clubs in the most educational institutions across the country,” Laalei tells us. “The awareness of its mission inspires and involves more people to be an asset to the society and during the next years Best Buddies Qatar expects to have its clubs in all schools across the country, to involve more volunteers and partners in private and government sectors to support its noble mission to enhance life for people with and without intellectual disabilities.”

By providing a platform for students of all ages to interact based upon their interests, BBQ encourages the building of important social networks and ultimately recognizes that all individuals “possess a great potential and some have talents that must be developed and inspired but not socially isolated,” according to Laalei. BBQ’s work with schoolchildren is particularly impressive as it works to break down barriers of social exclusion by providing activities and events for students to meet and socialize as children do based upon shared interests, whether through creative play or through taking part in shared activities such as skating, playing sports, and visiting museums.

Laalei’s message of social inclusion provides a framework for her program coordinators, like Yasmeen Shubber, who are organizing more BBQ clubs across Qatar’s educational institutions and working to recruit additional volunteers to help with organized events and activities – and that’s something that, as a society, we should all be clapping for! n

Best Buddies Qatar is a non-profit organization, championed by Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser. Funded by government and private sectors it provides support and training for people with mild to moderate intellectual disabilities. To learn more about its programs visit www.bestbuddies.org.qa.

Best Buddies Qatar aims to provide a safe environment where children with disabilities can participate inclusively in social interaction

Best Buddies youth decorate cookies at the Carnival Festival of Friends

Al Danah Chefs Pradeep and Anton teach Best Buddies youth all about eating healthy

Program Coordinator Yasmeen Shubber hands out gift bags to a young participant

Radio, What’s New?

By Rodger Gillen

Photography by Jessie Palanca

Haytham Jawhari is the voice of the QBS Radio alternative Rock Top 40 QH caught up with the Lebanese DJ to talk about late-night radio, record collections and how major bands are looking to play in Doha.

Behind the mic at the QBS Radio studios is Haytham Jawhari’s second home. “I started to get into music from a very early age from my parents,” he reminisces. “I was aware of music and records, even before I could read and write I would be able to choose records from my parent’s collection just by the colours and shapes of the pictures.”

Those formative years gave Haytham a passion for music – particularly vinyl. Initially he was inspired to collect records thanks to the work of David Bowie’s Ziggy Stardust persona, which Haytham describes as “Something I had never seen before, a complete revelation.” Encouraged by his parents’ taste in music, soon Haytham’s collection grew, eventually leading to a slot by chance on a local radio station.

“A dear friend of mine asked if I would be interested in playing, based on the simple fact that I owned so much music. I haven’t really looked back from then.” After a few months, the larger national stations

Haytham Jawhari's lifetime love of music is the driving force behind his massive personal collection of records and discs

called, with Haytham being a regular presence on Lebanese radio for over a decade before moving to Qatar in 1995.

Today, Haytham’s dulcet tones can be heard on the QBS alternative Top 40 every Monday night along with new music show The Spin – which he is immensely proud of. “We’ve developed our own little community on the alternative countdown,” he tells us. “Each week I send out a voting form to one hundred or so people, who choose their top tracks. I then calculate the chart by hand.” This do-it-yourself ethic is central to his show and it harbours a unique relationship between DJ and audience alike.

“Bands such as The Arctic Monkeys and Noel Gallagher are interested in visiting Doha.”

Talk turns to the lack of major bands visiting Qatar, something that Haytham is confident will change in the future. “I think before we look at bigger artists coming to Qatar, a musical scene needs to develop more,” he explains. “I’ve had plenty of people asking me to invite bands over, but I can’t just do it on my own. You need a whole big group of people ready to help out.” Haytham does confess that bands such as The Arctic Monkeys and Noel Gallagher are interested in visiting Doha, however this can only be possible with, in his words, “major backing and dedicated individuals.”

In terms of artists to watch for in 2015 we asked Haytham to recommend a number of new artists or albums to check out. Immediately his eyes lit up and he instantly spurts: “Well, firstly it has to be Noel Gallagher’s High Flying Birds album. It’s really bluesy, and a fantastic return to form. Second, it has to be Father John Misty. The second album is a real classic in the making – a really melodic, rambling journey of a record. I guess my final choice is Darlia who are my favourite band at the moment. They remind me of Nirvana and the Kurt Cobain sound. They’re stunning…simply stunning… I have a feeling they’ll make it big.”

When relaxing outside of the studio, Haytham is again surrounded by music. Which he readily admits: “It’s the story of my life.” At home he possesses a hefty record collection, covering a host of alternative genres. While he also regularly heads to watch concerts across Europe and visits music festivals, his last visit at the turn of the year included catching The Cure, and one of his current favourite bands, Darlia.

So with an undeniable passion for new music, and emerging talent Haytham Jawhari is pushing the boundaries of new music in Doha. His infectious attitude and dedication to alternative sounds, makes his late-night radio show the only one to listen to. n

Listen to Haytham via Mixcloud, www.mixcloud.com/haythamjawhari3, or on QBS Radio at www.qatarbroadcast.qa.

On the airwaves in Qatar since 1995, Haytham has made a name for himself at QBS as one of the longeststanding radio hosts in the country

Choosing The Right Babysitter

By Jacqueline Bodnar

Even the most attentive parents need a babysitter once in a while. Finding someone you can trust so you and your partner can go out on a much deserved Friday night can be a daunting task. There are some steps you can take to make sure you choose the right person to invite into your home for a few hours while you get away. Read on for some tips on choosing the right babysitter.

Where To Look

Before you even begin looking for a candidate it’s important that you know what you would be comfortable with. Think about certain qualifications that you want the person to have. Knowing this will help ensure you hire the right babysitter. Make a list of what you prefer, including age, gender and location.

If you’re not quite sure where to start searching for a new sitter, you can’t beat word of mouth. Ask your friends, family and neighbours if they have any recommendations. Another good option is to find someone right in your neighbourhood. There are benefits of doing this, including that they’re familiar with the area and have their own parents nearby in the event that they need an adult.

Interviewing

When you get a good recommendation set up a meeting to discuss their experience. If you have an

infant it’s crucial that they need to know how to feed, change and care for a baby. One of the most important things you need to discuss is safety. Make sure they know what to do in case of an emergency and are familiar with basic first aid. It’s helpful if the candidate has had experience watching children and has taken a babysitter training course. Many of these courses are available through local organizations like the Red Crescent or local hospitals. If you are interested in this person and he or she hasn’t taken one, don’t hesitate to ask them to do so. If they have prior experience babysitting, ask if you can contact the person they sat for so you can inquire how well they did at the job.

The Details

Before hiring the babysitter it’s important to go over what your expectations are to make sure that he or she is comfortable with them. Some important issues that you should address during this time include pay, advance notice requirements, cancellation policy and rules you would want followed. If you prefer that she not be on the phone or have a friend over, now is the time to make that clear to avoid any surprises later.

Hired!

Before the first time babysitting, invite the person over to tour your house and get an idea of how your family interacts. Make sure they know where a first aid kit and fire extinguishers are. Explain your child’s routine and if there are any things they are not allowed do. Leave a list of phone numbers in a handy spot that will include emergency contacts, your child’s doctor, a trusted neighbour or adult, and a way to contact you. Let the babysitter know if there are foods that are off-limits due to choking hazards or allergies and any other specific rules that you may have. If your children are of age, have a talk with them to explain that they will be with the sitter and what behavior is expected of them.

Relax

Now that you have done your homework and set the babysitter up for success, it’s time to enjoy your night out. The first couple of times you leave your precious ones with a sitter will be the hardest. Keep in mind that this is normal. When you get home and see everything under control you will know you chose the right person. Then you can start planning your next special date with your mate. n

QH RECOMMENDS

DOHA MUMS

Easter Afternoon Tea

April 4: Sharq Village & Spa. Easter is only a hop, skip and a jump away and the Doha Mums are celebrating from 3:00 p.m. till 5:00 p.m. at the Sharq Village & Spa. Children will enjoy an Easter egg hunt on the hotel’s grounds, plus a special appearance by the Easter Bunny who will hand out soft, cuddly toy bunnies to all children. Various activities will also be offered including a bouncing castle, face-painting, balloon twisting, egg colouring and more! Families will enjoy a scrumptious afternoon tea buffet in the Lobby Lounge. Attendance is members-only. For more information on how to join email attend@dohamums.com.

ONE OF A KIND

DOHA MUMS

Egyptian Moms Park Playgroup

Saturdays: Al Hatmi Park. Are you Egyptian or married to an Egyptian? Then Moms can meet every Saturday from 9:00 a.m. till 12 noon at Al Hatmi Park which offers a large playground and shaded area. For more information visit www.dohamums.com, or email rsvp@dohamums.com.

Katara

Q Talent Store

Now Open: Gate 17, Katara beachside. Q Talent is a local company that focuses on finding, connecting and promoting Qatari talented youth. They provide services for employers who are looking for Qatari talent, while providing opportunities for young artists and entrepreneurs to grow and prosper. The Q Talent store features clothing, books, arts and crafts, perfumes, accessories and more – all designed, produced and created by local young artists. For more information find them on Facebook or visit www.qtalent.com.

EVERY WEEK

MUSEUM OF ISLAMIC ART Kids Calligraphy Workshops

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

IAID

Zumba For Kids

Tues & Thurs: Hilal St., Al-Tadamon Signal, D-Ring Road. Zumba is the latest dance fitness craze and is 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 kids as they learn how to move and engage in activities while exercising and discovering how being fit can also be fun. For more information call 4432-0974/4441-1234, visit www.iaidonline.org, or email enquire@iaidonline.org.

Karate For Kids

Sat-Thurs: Hilal St., Al-Tadamon Signal, D-Ring Road. Shotokan, a karate style developed from various martial arts, tackles karate basics, form, patterns of moves and sparring. Affiliated with the Qatar Karate Federation, the course is open for kids and adults. For more information call 4432-0974/ 4441-1234, visit www.iaidonline.org or email enquire@iaidonline.org.

KATARA

Dragon-Boat Racing

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

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

Egyptian Women’s Association 5572-4171

French-Speaking Ladies Group 5559-7467

Indian Women’s Association 4442-4052

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

Red Dotters Qatar 5520-9294

Follow @RedDottersQatar on Twitter

Silver Dhow Association 4435-2598

Turkish Women’s Association www.twaq.org

Tuesday Ladies Group Email: tlgindoha@gmail.com

SASCOM: South Africans In Qatar www.southafricansinqatar.netfirms.com

Canadians In Qatar

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

FOOD & DINING Top Picks

RADISSON BLU

Easter Brunch

April 3: Hyde Park Coffee Shop. Enjoy spectacular all-you-can-eat Easter brunch buffet filled with special events and a live band at The Hyde Park Coffee Shop on Good Friday. QR 210 with unlimited special house beverage and QR 160 including juices and soft drinks. Kids under the age of six eat for free when they dine with their families. From 12:00 noon till 3:00 p.m. For more information call 4428-1555.

SHERATON DOHA

Pizza Class With Chef Federico Carsili

Saturdays: La Veranda. Want to be a pizza chef? Join in for a pizza class hosted by Chef Federico Carsili! It’s a fun tutorial for all pizza-lovers that’s not to be missed. QR 150 per person. From 4:00 p.m. till 6:00 p.m. For more information call 4485-3000 or email F&Breservations.Doha@sheraton.com.

MARSA

MALAZ KEMPINSKI

Tapeo After Work

Starts April 1: El Faro. Enjoy your favourite beverage with a complimentary selection of inimitably authentic Spanish tapas and pintxos. From 5:00 p.m. till 7:00 p.m. Closed Sundays. For more information call 4035-5011, email restaurants.marsamalaz@kempinski.com, or visit www.kempinski.com/marsamalaz.

MÖVENPICK HOTEL DOHA

Hop, Skip And Brunch

April 5: Seasons Restaurant. Indulge in an elegant Easter brunch filled with all sorts of fun for the entire family. The buffet feast includes carvery and live cooking stations, a seafood display, ‘Wonderland’ salad bar and an endless selection of desserts. Kids will enjoy fun activities including face-painting and an exciting Easter egg hunt in the garden. QR 265 per person, including beverages. Children ages 12 to 16 get a 50% discount, while those below the age of 12 eat for free. From 12:00 noon till 3:30 p.m. For more information call 4429-1111.

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA

Sunny Easter Brunch

April 5-12: Mykonos. Enjoy painting eggs with the kids while savouring a succulent international buffet, Greek-style. QR 375 with unlimited house beverages. For more information call 4484-4444.

Spain À La Mode

By Ashlee Starratt

Photography by Jessie Palanca

We make El Faro restaurant in the new Marsa Malaz Kempinski our home-base for an evening of laid-back tapas, tangy sangria and an ambiance that’s second-to-none.

Since opening a little over two months ago, the word on the street about El Faro is that this little slice of Spain is as authentic as it comes. With a secluded bar area, an outdoor balcony terrace and walk-up central tapas station, its exposed beam and brick layout evokes an industrial-chic vibe. Anchoring the space is a massive graffiti wall mural conceptualized by a Spanish street artist flown in from Barcelona, while on every table, colourful hand-blown glassware adds to the whimsy of its Picasso-like theme.

‘El faro’ means ‘lighthouse’ in Spanish and with a menu that spans the Iberian Peninsula to highlight traditional flavours from Andalusia all the way over to the Catalonian region, the restaurant is quickly living up to its name to become a beacon for Spanish cuisine in Qatar. It’s early on a Wednesday evening and dinner service has just started when we arrive. Already there’s a smattering of tables full and the soft buzz of conversation trickles in from the outdoor terrace where more diners are making the most of the cool evening breeze.

We’re seated at a comfortable banquette at the back of the restaurant and our server Javier, who

hails from the northern Spanish city of Bilbao, gets us started with a few icy glasses of their signature sangria. Though El Faro offers a solid selection of hearty main courses, its Spanish spirit lies in its tapas and pintxos menu and Javier prepares a selection of Valencian Chef Raoul’s very best for us to try. Served in small, plated sharing portions the tapas experience is meant to be savoured family-style. We sample a trio of traditional Spanish Manchegos cheese – soft yet sharp, and delightful on a slab of crusty bread with fresh grapes and strawberries. There’s the ensaladilla rusa; the Spaniards’ take on potato salad it’s layered with tuna, pickles and chopped veg topped with a blanket of silky potato. For me it’s a winner – for my companions, not so much.

Instead they’re sinking their teeth into the bruschetta-style pan a la Catalana – rustic bread topped with an emulsion of tomato and garlic. It’s basic, yet bursting with rich fragrance and flavourful acidity. Javier appears on the horizon balancing two aromatic bowls –gambas al ajillo, sautéed prawns with garlic and chili and a tureen of champinones al ajillo, marinated garlic mushrooms. Both are briny and earthy in their own way and pop-in-your-mouth simplistic. Because that is what El Faro’s ethos is all about – using fresh, simple ingredients where the natural flavours are not masked by an excessive use of condiments. So far, it’s a winning formula.

By popular demand the evening’s star tapas dish is the patatas bravas, a delightful little bowl of hashbrown-style fried potatoes drizzled with a creamy garlic sauce and served with a side of spicy tomato

marinara. Throw in some bacon and eggs and they’d be the perfect accompaniment to a lazy Friday morning breakfast – as they’re addictively more-ish.

After a short break and a little walk around the restaurant – we love the flamenco shadow-dancers painted in the restrooms – our main course, a heaping cast-iron pan of paella, is ready to serve. Many a Spanish restaurant is judged by its calibre of paella, that most quintessential national dish.

El Faro offers three Valencian varieties on their menu – seafood, a fideuà version with vermicelli noodles, and their changing paella del dia. Tonight, because the kitchen has been notified of my allergy to shellfish, Chef Raoul has prepared a special dish with chicken and roasted vegetables. Using Spain’s revered Bomba rice, the consistency of the paella is creamy – almost like a risotto, with the natural flavours and juices from the roasted peppers and succulent morsels of chicken infusing the stock. Spanish saffron gives the dish its signature golden colour and Javier explains to us that in Spain this kind of paella would traditionally be prepared with rabbit meat.

With the paella pan scraped clean, we loosen o ur belts for dessert – a trio of Spanish sweets that will send your taste-buds into overdrive and your blood sugar through the roof. There’s a comfortingly creamy arroz con leche – rice pudding with sugar and cinnamon, a hunk of torrijas –Andalusian bread soaked with cinnamon sugar and honey, and (my favourite!) crispy, traditional churros encrusted with cinnamon and served with melted chocolate for dipping.

After dinner, El Faro is a great place to linger over a coffee before heading next door to Bohemia lounge for a night-cap. Its ambiance is ideal for those casual meet-ups that turn i nto spectacular evenings. In fact the hotel itself is worth a wander; with over 3,000 pieces of artwork throughout, its sheer opulence is gallery-worthy. The Tree Of Life chandelier in the central foyer with its 12 iridescent colibri birds is jaw-dropping, as are the four-foot tall vases inlaid with the mother-of-pearl sheen from thousands of collected crushed turtle shells. With an estimated 600,000 individual pieces of mosaic tile throughout the property, Marsa Malaz Kempinski is an island waiting to be explored by art-lovers with a keen eye. And for us foodies with discerning palates to please? Well, El Faro is just the tip of the fork. n

EL FARO RESTAURANT

Location: Ground floor, Marsa Malaz Kempinski, The Pearl-Qatar

Timings:

Open Tues-Sun

• 5:00 p.m. till 11:30 p.m., dinner

• 5:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m., bar

Average Meal Price:

• QR 25-QR 150, tapas & pintxos

•QR 350-QR 620, paella for four people

• QR 35-QR 45, desserts

Smoking: Yes

Licensed: Yes

Contact Info: Call 4035-5011 or email restaurants.marsamalaz@kempinski.com

El Faro's paella a special creation made with succulent chicken, roasted vegetables and fragrant saffron

Forget French fries the patatas bravas took tasty taters to a whole other level

The chili shrimp and garlic marinated mushrooms are perfect for sharing though you might not want to!

We plunged the creamy depths of the ensaladilla rusa's layers of potato and tuna

We make it a sweet ending with a trio of Spanish treats!

The Bentley Of Steakhouses

By Jorge Granda

Photography by Jessie Palanca

Tucked away on the ground floor of the Radisson Blu, Bentley’s Grill is still Doha’s standout steakhouse. QH visits the elegant restaurant with our bellies growling, to stick our forks into some truly succulent slabs.

It’s just after work on a Wednesday evening as we make our way into the new wing of the Radisson Blu, heading down the hall to the secluded back corner that hosts Bentley’s Grill, directly across from Pier 12 seafood restaurant.

At first blush, Bentley’s seems more like a membersonly gentlemen’s club for Doha’s upper-class, than

a simple steakhouse. Though small, the restaurant is classy and luxurious; sumptuous armchairs at the tables and lavish golden chandeliers hanging from the low ceiling gives Bentley’s a particular air of elegance and sophistication.

After cleansing our hands with hot towels given to us by one of the waiters, we begin contemplating the options for our banquet. There are about ten starters to choose from off the menu and my companions and I decide to share a few. An Alaskan crab-cake, pan-fried tiger prawns in a mushroom ragoût with tarragon-saffron cream, and a warm buffalo mozzarella salad with roasted, sliced beetroot, tomato and arugula.

All starters are beautifully presented – the crab cakes are crispy throughout and are accompanied by salmon roe and aioli crème fraiche. The prawns are also a winning starter and the tarragon-saffron

cream adds an incredible depth of flavour. But for me, the warm buffalo mozzarella was a pleasant surprise – a Caprese salad should always be prepared this way in every restaurant, as the warmness of the cheese gives the tomatoes a great softness and perfect temperature.

For the mains I opt for small portions of two different dishes – a beef Bourguignon and a veal medallion with Gorgonzola cheese crust. Again both dishes earn top marks for quality of presentation and preparation. A Julia Child classic, the beef Bourguignon is a refined version of a stew and is sheer heaven on a plate. The cubed beef with brown mushrooms and shallots in a red vino sauce accompanied with mash potatoes is just superb –the morsels of meat are as tender as can be and cooked in a first-class manner – the perfect combo alongside the shallots and mashed potatoes. The veal medallion is also succulent, tasty and cooked

exactly as I ordered it – hats off to Chef Sunil and his team. Served with braised celery stalks, broccoli, carrots and chicken risotto, the vegetables are steamed to be nicely al-dente. The risotto caught my attention with its atypical presentation – a rectangular block of rice that tastes utterly delicious.

We round out this evening of decadence with more of the same for dessert. We order the Bentley’s classic – a rich molten chocolate fondant cake, and also one of their unique signature offerings – rhubarb crumble. You can’t go wrong with melted chocolate and ice cream and the fondant is a sure bet. But it’s the crumble that piques our fancy, with its layers of delicately tart rhubarb – an elusive plant here in Doha – crunchy toffee crumble and topped with homemade Bailey’s ice cream. Wow. Hands down one of the best top-tier desserts we’ve had the pleasure of indulging in – the balance of sweetness with the pucker punch from the rhubarb is simply stunning.

Worth a mention is the fact that Head Chef Sunil has been working at Bentley’s for ten years – hence why the quality of the food has remained admirably consistent. We should note that if you have children we wouldn’t recommend bringing them along – this calibre of fine-dining restaurant is definitely not a place for kids. Prices at Bentley’s are not inexpensive but considering its overall quality, well thought-out, creatively presented dishes and top-notch attentive service from the wait staff, they’re more than fair. Next time we’re looking for somewhere to celebrate that special occasion, Bentley’s easily tops the list. n

BENTLEY’S GRILL

Location: Ground floor, Radisson Blu

Timings: 6:00 p.m. till 12:00 midnight, dinner service

Average meal price:

• QR 45-QR 120, starters

• QR 60-QR 90, main courses

• QR 200-QR 400, steak menu

• QR 20-QR 25, side dish accompaniments

• QR 36-QR 42, desserts

Licensed: Yes

Smoking: Outside

Contact Info: Call 4428-1555 or 4428-1428

If you try one item from the dessert menu, make it the

crumble

Bentley's signature chocolate fondant cake

Wagyu beef fillet with Béarnaise sauce and garlic butter

The pan-fried prawns with saffron-tarragon cream

Duck breast with currant sauce compliments of Chef Sunil

rhubarb

A beef Bourguignon that Julia Child would be proud of

Chef Marco’s Table

Photography by Jessie Palanca

What’s more filling and comforting than tender pasta tossed with sweetly succulent seafood? The Four Seasons’ Chef Marco Arlotti of Il Teatro brings you a recipe for linguine ai frutti di mare that’s as easy to make as it is to eat.

Linguine Pasta With Seafood

Ingredients:

• 100gms linguine pasta

• 20gms langoustine

• 20gms Canadian lobster

• 20gms prawns

• 20gms calamari

• 20gms mussels

• 20gms clams

• 30gms cherry tomatoes

• 10gms garlic

• 10gms banana shallots

• 5gms basil

• 5gms parsley

Preparation:

Place a large sauté pan over mediumhigh heat, adding extra virgin olive oil, the banana shallots and garlic, and heat until the garlic starts to turn golden. Add the fresh cherry tomatoes and cook for two minutes. Put the linguine pasta to boil in the water for two minutes then toss it in the pan with the sauce to finish cooking. Add all the seafood in the pan with the fresh tomatoes and the pasta and cook for two minutes. Plate the linguine and add some sprigs of basil leaf and extra virgin olive oil to garnish the plate, then serve immediately. n

Cooking classes with Chef Marco are available very last Saturday of the month for QR 500, including a four-course lunch menu. For reservations call 4494-8600.

An array of flavourful shellfish infuses this dish with a richness that evokes the Italian tradition

Chef Marco tosses all ingredients together with the freshly made linguine

Word Of Mouth

Photography by Jessie Palanca

This column is part of a monthly contest where we send one of our readers to experience a meal in a restaurant. It’s our way of giving the community a voice in our pages. This month England McCarthy turns up the heat, PeriPeri-style, at the new Nando’s in The Pearl-Qatar’s Medina Centrale. Here is her review.

QH: What did you order?

EM: I ordered the Something Special Espetada Carnival which is flame-grilled Peri-Peri chicken stuffed with garlic, parsley and feta, skewered with mixed peppers and served with two regular sides – I chose the spicy rice and corn-on-the-cob.

My husband ordered the full platter with a flamegrilled whole chicken plus side dishes which included fries, corn-on-the-cob, three bean salad and coleslaw.

QH: Were the prices reasonable?

EM: The prices were really reasonable, and it’s worth the money that you’re paying.

• Lentil soup of the day & Portuguese roll, QR 18

• Chicken livers & Portuguese Roll, QR 21

• Espetada Carnival, QR 69

• Full platter, QR 105

• Garlic bread, QR 5

• Cinnacool soft drink, QR 20

• Crimson Cola soft drink, QR 18

• Caramel cheesecake, QR 22

• Turtle chocolate, QR 22

QH: Describe the ambiance.

EM: Nando's The Pearl-Qatar branch is very stylish, classy and relaxing with a modern twist on the restaurant design and you can choose from the indoor or outdoor dining areas.

QH: Described the quality of the food.

EM: The food was so finger-licking good and the chicken was so tender and creamy. You can choose from the different Nando's sauces to suit your taste and I can’t forget to mention the designer drinks were to die for.

QH: Describe the quality of the service.

EM: All the staff were really friendly and helpful –as soon as you arrived at the restaurant a smiling hostess greets you with a warm welcome and assists you to the table where you prefer to sit. The Manager Leticia was very pleasing and our waiter Tony was so helpful and smiling all the time – he even suggested what to order to make it easier for us.

QH: Would you go back? Why / Why not?

EM: We will definitely go back especially to Nando's Pearl-Qatar branch because the area itself speaks for the quality of treatment and you can rest assured that your dining experience is memorable and will satisfy your appetite. It’s the best area to take the family for a treat.

QH: Favourite thing about the restaurant?

EM: Aside from the delicious food and great staff service, I loved the ambiance of the restaurant as it let me enjoy my time eating and having a happy time with my husband Kevin and daughter Khloe.

QH: Least favourite thing about the restaurant.

EM: As a diner in a high-end restaurant I prefer they have restrooms installed inside the restaurant, as I had to go outside the restaurant if I needed to use the restroom.

QH: Was there a special touch or flair to the experience?

EM: All the staff from time-to-time would go to our table and exert effort to ask if there was anything we needed and all of them treated us as special. The supervisor Ali was really entertaining our daughter Khloe and that made me feel safe as a mother. The manager Leticia even offered us a ride with their delivery car to take us to the car-park.

QH: Could the overall experience be improved?

EM: I guess the restaurant speaks purely of its goal, being ultimate satisfaction with every dining experience when you visit Nando's Pearl-Qatar branch. There's nothing to be improved upon, but to continue with its passion – money is nothing compared to an experience that will last forever. n

For more information on Nando’s Pearl-Qatar branch call 4480-1783, 4436-0606 (delivery hotline) or visit www.nandos.qa.

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

With a mound of spicy rice and juicy flame-grilled Peri-Peri chicken thighs, the espetada carnival is perfect for sharing

Contest winner England McCarthy and family pose with Nando's Grill Coordinator Victor Sunday (left)

LA VARENNE

Easter Weekend Family Brunch

April 3 & 4. Come to La Varenne from 12:00 noon till 4:00 p.m. to indulge in their fun family-style brunch. Crack into a selection of Easter goodies while your little bunnies enjoy face-painting and colouring activities. QR 109 for children between the ages of 4-12 years old, QR 179 includes tea, coffee and water and QR 379 includes selected drinks. For more information call 4499-0680 or email reservations@lavarenne.qa

Canadian Lobster At Marriott

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

SPECIAL PROMOTIONS

DOHA MARRIOTT

Easter Weekend Brunch

April 3 & 4: Restaurant Gallery. 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 hunt as well as many more fun and memorable activities. QR 375 for all-in bubbly brunch. For more information call 4429-8499.

The Late Brunch Is Back!

Fridays: The View Pool Bar & Grill. Experience the awesome revamped outdoor Late Brunch in an all-new location! Shaking up the Doha brunch scene, join in for Doha’s first and only Late Brunch! Chill-out and watch the sun set by the pool with spectacular views across the city and the famous backdrop of the Doha skyline. With funky tunes, a full grill, buffet and seafood selections, 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.

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 utmost versatile and nutritious sources of seafood protein you can find? This month JW’s Steakhouse/ Asia Live!/Salsa and Taj Rasoi are featuring tantalizing variations of lobster cooked to perfection. For more information call 4429-8499.

KEMPINSKI RESIDENCES & SUITES

Asparagus Menu In Aroma

All-Month: Aroma. Asparagus is the star of the month in a selection of classic recipes from Aroma. Try the mixed asparagus salad with green leaves and strawberries, or the duet of asparagus soup, followed by asparagus risotto with Canadian lobster and finishing with a green and white asparagus sorbet. The asparagus menu is available throughout April. For more information call 4405-3325, email restaurants.doha@kempinski.com, or visit www.kempinski.com/doha.

LA CIGALE

Easter Brunch

April 5: La Cigalon. Revive Easter traditions while gathering with your family and friends around the exquisite international buffet featuring a wide selection of dishes specially prepared for this occasion. QR 270 inclusive of one American coffee or tea. For more information call 4428-8698.

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

MARRIOTT MARQUIS CITY CENTER DOHA

Easter Brunch

April 3: Crossroads Kitchen. Enjoy the taste of Easter specialties prepared by the culinary team. Don’t forget to look out for the Easter Bunny bursting with surprises! From QR 260. From 12:30 noon till 3:30 p.m. For more information call 4419-6100 or visit www.marriottmarquisdohadining.com.

ORYX ROTANA

Easter Brunch

April 5 & 12: Choices. Celebrate a Greekthemed eggs-travagant Easter with family and friends. Children can have their Easter fun in the kids’ corner. Buffet price is QR 270 inclusive of unlimited water, soft drinks and chilled juices, or QR 350 inclusive of unlimited selected house beverages. For more information call 4016-6000.

RADISSON BLU

Tapas, Vino & Paint Event

April 28: Picassos. Have a go creating your very own painting while indulging on tasty tapas with selected house beverage. Carry away your own painting with you all for QR 201. For more information call 4428-1555 or email fbreservations.doha@radissonblu.com.

THE ST. REGIS DOHA

Easter Brunch

April 3 & 5: Vine. Gather with family and friends to experience a lavish buffet with treats for everyone. Parents can relax with live music and enjoy breathtaking views from the terrace. Special British-inspired dishes will be offered. QR 320 including soft drinks and QR 420 including enhanced beverages. From 12:30 noon to 4:00 p.m. For more information call 4446-0107 or email Vine.Doha@stregis.com.

SHARQ VILLAGE & SPA

Easter Brunch

April 5: Al Liwan. Enjoy an extensive buff¬et including Easter specialties and international favourites with lots of children’s activities. QR 300 per person, or QR 450 inclusive of selected beverages. From 12:00 noon till 3:30 p.m. For more information call 4425-6666.

THE FOUR SEASONS

Songkran Thai New Year

April 13 & 15: Nusantao: Sea Kitchens. Nusantao rings in the Thai New Year with seven delicious dishes served family-style. The menu includes Tom Yum soup, red curry shrimps and mango sticky rice for dessert. QR 300 per person including one Thai special drink. For dinner only from 7:00 p.m. till 11:30 p.m. For more information call 4494-8601.

THE GRAND HYATT Easter Brunch

April 3: The Grill. Take your family on an Easter journey of excellence and deliciousness 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. For more information call 7798-2400.

South African Week

April 9-16: The Grill. Indulge in an inspired South African menu including a themed South African brunch. The soft beverage brunch will be for QR 295 or QR 420 for a special beverage brunch. For more information call 7798-2400.

Thai Cooking Classes

April 11 & 25: Isaan. Join Chef Wachira Chaipinidnorrachart and his team to learn how to prepare the best Thai recipes in the city at Isaan. QR 280 including lunch. From 11:00 a.m. till 3:00 p.m. For individual and group bookings call 7021-8097.

Songkran ‘Whet Your Appetite

April 12: Isaan. Songkran marks the New Year according to the Thai lunar calendar. The tradition is an example of beautiful Thai culture, revealing the joy, generosity, warmth and respect of the Thai people. During Songkran, Thai people use water and scents to convey love and amity to each other. The Grand Hyatt is celebrating this occasion with a special event at Isaan. Enjoy traditional Thai food prepared in various live stations, accompanied by infused teas and soft beverages for QR 350 or QR 495 including special beverages. From 7:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 7021-8097.

THE RITZ-CARLTON Easter Festivities

April 5: The Lagoon Restaurant. This Easter families can look forward to a delicious, fun-filled line-up at The Ritz-Carlton. Guests can indulge in a luxurious buffet, live musical performance and a relaxed atmosphere at The Lagoon. The Ritz-Kids line of activities includes a special egg-hunt in The Lagoon Garden and some great treats for little ones and grown-ups alike. QR 305 per person including soft beverages, QR 395 person including bubbly, or QR 425 for full brunch. Kids under the age of four can dine for free. QR 150 for children aged 4 -12 years old. For more information call 4484-8512 or email rc.dohrz.leads@ritzcarlton.com.

Chef & Sommelier Tables

April 10 & 24: La Mer. Experience the innovative cuisine and intimate service of The Chef & Sommelier Tables at La Mer restaurant. Chef William Khala will visit your table, conveying the passion he puts into each recipe, while the experienced Ladies and Gentlemen will escort you through the world of grape varieties. Chef Table: Taste of Italy on April 1 and Sommelier Table : 50° South Australia & Africa on April 24. For more information call 4484-8512 or email rc.dohrz.leads@ritzcarlton.com.

FOOD & DINING Listings

REGULAR PROMOTIONS

CHOWKING

Indo-Chinese Menu & Value Meals

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

CROWNE PLAZA DOHA –THE BUSINESS PARK Arabic Night

Wednesdays: Aramede. Savour authentic Lebanese and Oriental specialties including traditional mezzes and grilled meats available at the live cooking stations. End your meal with Arabic coffee, dates and other sweets including umm ali and kunafa QR 175 per person. From 6:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4408-7788.

Seafood Night

Thursdays: Aramede. Enjoy the bounty of the sea with their international selection of seafood dishes, including the daily catch from the local market. The dedicated sushi live station offers sashimi, nigiri and our chef’s signature maki. QR 215 per person. From 6:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4408-7788.

World of Curries

Thursdays: Aramede. Get a taste of authentic Asian flavours as they offer 10 different curries from Malaysia, India, Thailand, Vietnam and Indonesia. A traditional Asian tea service is also offered at every table for a truly Asian dining experience for QR 170. From 6:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4408-7788.

Be Social Friday Brunch

Friday: Aramede. Socialize with friends at the newest brunch destination in town and enjoy their selection of international dishes and signature drinks. Entertainment provided by DJ’s streaming live from around the world. QR 255 for all-you-can-eat and drink. From 12:30 p.m. till 4:00 p.m. For more information call 4408-7788.

DOHA MARRIOTT

JW’s Steakhouse

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

Weekend Brunch

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

GRAND HERITAGE DOHA

Modern Turkish Cuisine

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

Surf & Turf

Daily: Blue. There’s something new and amazing and it’s all for you at Blue! Savour a platter of a scrumptious US tenderloin steak with a mouthwatering side of lobster, cooked to perfection by their professional chefs to ensure your satisfaction. From 12:30 noon till midnight. QR 260 per plate. For more information call 4445-5555.

Family Brunch

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

HILTON DOHA

Brunch At Trader Vic’s

Fridays: Trader Vic’s. A new food menu with twentyfive new cocktail drinks is introduced to Trader Vic’s. Gather with friends and colleagues in the great ambiance for and indulge in their newest offerings of food and drinks. QR 375 including unlimited selected cocktails. From 12:30 noon till 3:30 p.m. For more information call 4423-3118 or visit www.facebook.com/tradervicsdoha.

Brunch At Mawasem

Fridays: Mawasem. Spend some quality time with family and friends with a unique brunch at Mawasem. QR 234 including soft drinks and QR 345 Including house beverages. From 12:30 noon till 3:30 p.m. For more information call 4423-3112 or visit www.facebook.com/Hilton.Hotel.Doha.

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA

Traditional Greek Menu

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

Saturday Brunch

Saturdays: Fish Market. Enjoy special Lebanese seafood delicacies for QR 325 including house beverages. Kids package for QR 295 with unlimited non-alcoholic beverages. From 12:30 noon till 4:00 p.m. For more information call 4484-4919 or 4484-4444.

Greek Grills

Mondays: Mykonos. The restaurant aims to provide you with a variety of mezze alongside a selection of salads, starters and dips, followed by a mixed grilled platter and finishing up with a selection of Greek desserts. QR 160 per person. From 6:30 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4484-4074 or 4484-4444 or email Mykonos@ihg.com.

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA THE CITY Izakaya

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

Seafood Night

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

Friday Brunch

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

KEMPINSKI RESIDENCES & SUITES

Signature Camel Burger

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

Steak & Vino Menu

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

Breakfast Eggsperience

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

Business Lunch

Sat-Thurs: Aroma. Aroma offers a creative business lunch menu by using fresh and locally-farmed ingredients. Mixing flavours from around the globe, a few dishes to name are the Apulian burrata, the Angus beef medallions and a sweet indulgence of the fruit forest honey parfait. QR 95 per person from 12:00 noon till 3:00 p.m. For more information call 4405-3325, email restaurants.doha@kempinski.com, or visit www.kempinski.com/doha.

LA CIGALE

International Cuisine

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

Sushi Mania

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

LA VARENNE

French Country Brunch

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

Rotisserie Night

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

Business Lunch

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

MARRIOTT MARQUIS CITY CENTER DOHA

Smoking Beef

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

Three Countries, One Platter

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

Tomahawk – Can You Handle It?

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

Pizza & Pasta Express

Daily: Cucina. Order any one of Cucina’s pizza or pastas along with a side dish and one soft beverage for just QR 50! From 12:00 noon till 6:00 p.m. For more information call 4419-6100 or visit www.marriottmarquisdohadining.com.

Business Express Lunch

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

MARSA MALAZ KEMPINSKI Friday Brunch

Fridays: Sawa. Signature sweet and savoury recipes from all around the world, fine live entertainment and a children’s corner on the lawn are the elements of the first and only fivestar Friday brunch. QR 330 per person, including soft drinks, or QR 425 per person, including white and red vino. From 12.30 noon till 4:00 p.m. For more information call 4035-5011, email restaurants.marsamalaz@kempinski.com, or visit www.kempinski.com/marsamalaz.

Traditional Spanish Delicacies

Daily (except Mondays): El Faro. A trendy corner of Spain inside Marsa Malaz Kempinski, the restaurant uses traditional recipes from culinary hotspots across the entire Iberian Peninsula, serving authentic tapas in a casual and stylish setting, around the ambient central tapas bar. From 5:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. For more information call 4035-5011, email restaurants.marsamalaz@kempinski.com, or visit www.kempinski.com/marsamalaz.

Levant Culinary Experience

Mon-Sat: Al Sufra. With a blend of traditional recipes and flavours from Lebanon, Cyprus, Syria, Jordan and Palestine, the Levant-inspired restaurant Al Sufra – meaning ‘the dining room’ in Arabic – has a timeless charm. With a coffee lounge, open terrace and shisha, as well as a la carte dining, the restaurant can be visited any time throughout the day. From 6:30 p.m. till 11:30 p.m. For more information call 4035-5011, email restaurants.marsamalaz@kempinski.com, or visit www.kempinski.com/marsamalaz.

Al Fresco Dining By The Beach

Thurs, Fri and Sat: Amwage. Meaning ‘the wave’ in Arabic, Amwage serves a selection of fresh and flavoursome seafood and BBQ options in a casual setting by the beach,and next to the azure waters of the Arabian Gulf. Raising the standards for the best al fresco dining in the city, Amwage offers cool tunes, great comfort cuisine and a relaxed, yet attentive service. From 5:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4035-5011, email restaurants.marsamalaz@kempinski.com, or visit www.kempinski.com/marsamalaz

MÖVENPICK HOTEL DOHA

Burger Express

Daily: L’Espresso. Why get one burger when you can have three? Stop by at L’Espresso, the bustling heart of the hotel, and dive into a tasty Burger Sampler. Three burgers – beef, chicken and veggie make for one hearty meal. This experience will leave nothing to be desired. Grab the Burger Sampler at L’Espresso for only QR 55. For more information call 4429-1111.

New & Inspired Theme Nights

Daily: Seasons Restaurant. Take your taste-buds on an exciting journey with a variety of new theme nights, plus some old favourites!

Les Alpes Mondays

The restaurant has combined the finest delicacies of France, Italy and Switzerland to fashion an exclusive gourmet event. QR 160 per person.

Lebanese Tuesdays: Savour enticing Middle Eastern delicacies combined with authentic drinks and desserts. QR 160 per person.

TemptAsian Wednesdays: Taste the creativity of the Japanese sushi or the tang of the Thai curry among many others. QR 160 per person.

Seafood & Family Thursdays: Tuck into a simply spectacular buffet of fresh and succulent seafood while the kids play their hearts out in the famous Kids Kingdom with an array kiddie treats. QR 180 per person.

Naughty Food Gone Good Fridays: Enjoy all your tasty indulgences minus the guilt with an array of healthconscious junk food to choose from. QR 140 per person. International Saturdays & Sundays: Indulge in a colourful collection of international creations. QR 140 per person. For more information on all promotions call 4429-1111.

Friday Family Brunch: 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. QR 215 per person with kids under the age of 12 dining free and those between the ages of twelve and sixteen receiving a 50% discount. Brunch with bubbles or suds for QR 245. For more information call 4429-1111.

ORYX ROTANA

X'Press Lunch And Dinner

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

New Tapas Galore Selection

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

Latin Night

Sundays: Choices. Enjoy a unique concept and indulge in a Latin American buffet from 7:00 p.m. till 11:30 p.m. for QR 215 per person food only, or QR 305 including unlimited selected house beverages. Also try their premium package for QR 350 which includes unlimited sparkling vino, house spirits, selected digestives and aperitifs. For more information call 4402-3333.

RADISSON BLU Weekend Brunch

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

SHERATON DOHA

Seafood Experience

Daily: Almaskar. The hotel’s new seafood restaurant Almaskar offers a fresh sea breeze and retreat-like feeling in the heart of the city. Simplicity, quality of design and finishes are essential in making the difference by embracing the resort-like feeling away from the stresses of daily life. From 7:00 p.m. till 10:30 p.m. For more information visit www.almaskar-restaurant.com.

Churrasco Night

Mon-Sat: Latino Steakhouse. If you’ve never experienced Churrasco before, prepare yourself for a unique culinary experience every Wednesday in Latino Steakhouse! Churrasco is a Brazilianstyle barbecue laden with mouth-watering spitroasted meats cooked in a churrasco grill and served from a sword-sized skewer to your table. Latino Steakhouse is open daily from 5:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4485-3000 or visit F&Breservations.Doha@sheraton.com.

Friday Brunch

Fridays: Al Hubara. Located on the lobby level of the hotel, Al Hubara is often described as one of the best dining outlets in the city. It’s easy to see why as this ambient, beautifully-decorated venue tends to attract diners from far and wide. QR 350, from 12:00 noon till 3:30 p.m. For more information call 4485-3000 or visit F&Breservations.Doha@sheraton.com.

THE ANVIL ROOMS

The Blacksmith’s Lunch

Daily: 28th Floor, Tornado Tower. Choose a signature steak, a side, a sauce and a soft drink for QR 149 available seven days a week. Fridays and Saturdays include a sommeliers selected drink for QR 179. From 12:00 noon till 3:00 p.m. For more information call 4499-0685 or email reservations@theanvilrooms.qa.

The Blacksmith’s Supper

Sun-Thurs: 28th Floor, Tornado Tower. Choose a signature steak, a side dish, a sauce and a signature drink for QR 179 with a sommeliers selected drink. From 5:30 p.m. to 6:45 p.m. For more information call 4499-0685 or email reservations@theanvilrooms.qa.

SHARQ VILLAGE & SPA

Sushi Mania

Mon & Wed: Al Dana Terrace. Tantalize your taste-buds with these bite-sized morsels of culinary perfection. Enjoy fresh selections of sushi, maki and sashimi from their sushi counter. QR 185 per person. From 6:30 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4016-6000.

Barbecue By The Pool

Thurs & Fri: Al Seef. Embrace the outdoor vibe with a nice breeze while the weather is nice, overlooking the magnificent sea. Experience Western-style barbecue at its best with a side of shisha. QR 215 per person. From 6:30 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. Barbecue is also available during lunchtime on Fridays from 12:30 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at QR 150 per person. For more information call 4016-6000.

Weekend Brunch

Fri & Sat: Al Liwan. Unwind with friends and family and indulge in a luxurious buffet featuring the freshest seafood, Middle Eastern favourites and international classics. QR 250 per person, or QR 390 inclusive of selected beverages. All kids below 12-years-old dine complimentary. From 12:30 noon till 4:00 p.m. For more information call 4016-6000.

THE FOUR SEASONS

Piatto Unico

Sat-Thurs: Il Teatro. ‘Piatto Unico’ in Italian literally means a ‘one-dish meal’ that is well-balanced, healthy and bountiful. The chef is delighted to share this unique Italian lunch on a weekly changing basis to suit all tastes. Perfect for those who don’t have much time for lunch and offers great value for a true Italian experience. QR 99 per person. From 12:00 noon till 3:00 p.m. For more information call 4494-8631.

Go Go Bento Box

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

FOOD & DINING

Wagyu Beef

Daily: Il Teatro. The Four Seasons brings you the opportunity to experience the exquisite flavour of Japanese Wagyu beef here in Doha. Chef Marco, the hotel’s Chef de Cuisine will satisfy your palate with exclusive dishes showcasing tasty Wagyu beef with an Italian touch. Prices start from QR 120. From 7:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4494-8601.

Friday Brunch

Fridays: Nusantao: Sea Kitchens. Start the weekend on a leisurely note with their Friday Brunch, which offers an array of delicious dining choices to enjoy. The main buffet is a showcase of live Asian cooking stations, as well as hot and cold appetizers and a traditional carvery. Regular brunch is QR 340 and sparkling brunch is QR 440. From 12:00 noon till 4:00 p.m. For more information call 4494-8601.

THE GRAND HYATT

Curry Nights

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

Chatuchak Weekend Market Brunch

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

THE RITZ-CARLTON

Seafood Platter

Tuesdays: Admiral’s Club, lower floor. Overlooking the marina, delight yourself in fresh seafood offerings while admiring the perfect surroundings and stunning view. QR 260 per portion which serves up to two people. From 6:00 p.m. till 10:00 p.m. For more information call 4484-8663, or email rc.dohrz.leads@ritzcarlton.com.

Friday 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 260 per person including soft beverages, QR 340 per person including bubbly, or QR 395 for full brunch. Kids under the age of four can dine for free. QR 130 for kids ages 4-12-years-old. From 12:30 noon till 4:00 p.m. Last order for beverages is at 3:30 p.m. For more information call 4484-8512, or email rc.dohrz.leads@ritzcarlton.com.

BBQ Lovers

Mon, Thurs & Fri: Admiral’s Club, lower floor. What better way to savour the perfect surroundings of the hotel’s marina while indulging in a succulent BBQ platter? QR 190 per portion, with an additional QR 50 for fresh lobster. For more information call 4484-8663, or email rc.dohrz.leads@ritzcarlton.com.

THE ST. REGIS DOHA

Burger & Pint Night

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

Gourmet Chilli-Dog Nights

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

BBQ Night

Thursdays: Vine. Ring in the weekend and experience a wide selection of BBQ classics while enjoying breath-taking views from the terrace. Follow dinner with a trip to The Rooftop for a night-cap, and music from their resident DJ. QR 320 with soft beverages and QR 420 including grapes, grain and sparkling beverages. From 6:30 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4446-0107.

Weekend A La Carte Brunch

Fri & Sat: Opal by Gordon Ramsay. Delight you taste-buds with everything you can eat from our a la carte brunch menu designed by famous Chef Gordon Ramsay. Sit on the terrace and while away a lazy weekend. QR 295 with soft beverages and QR 395 with selected beverages. For more information call 4446-0116 or e-mail opal.Doha@stregis.com.

THE TORCH DOHA

Theme Nights At Flying Carpet

Escape To India: Each Monday night try out Indian food platters for only QR 180 per person including selected beverages.

Tex- Mex Night: Every Wednesday try Latino specialties with a wide selection of steaks, burgers and hot dogs for only QR 190 per person.

Seafood Extravaganza: Every Thursday night find a selection of seafood for grilling, frying, wok and many more for only QR 250 per person including selected beverages. Arabian Nights: Every Friday live the charm of the Orient and indulge in a variety of plates from different Arabic cuisines for QR 200 per person. From 7:00 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. For more information call 4446-5600, or email reservation@thetorchdoha.com.

Casual Business Lunch

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

Barbecue Bazaar Brunch

Fridays: Flying Carpet. Choose from a wide selection of steaks, Oriental BBQ, fish, burgers, and hot dogs for only QR 210 per person including selected beverages. From 12:30 noon to 3:30 p.m. Special rate of QR 98 for children between the ages of six and 12-years-old. For more information call 4446-5600, or email reservation@thetorchdoha.com.

W DOHA

Burger Night

Sundays: Market by Jean-Georges. Start your week with your favourite burger, side dish and one amazing sundae from the selection –all for QR 110 per person. From 6:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4453-5135 or email bnfreservations.wdoha@whotels.com.

Sip &Savour

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

Business Lunch

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

Jazz Brunch

Fridays: Market by Jean-Georges. Enjoy a delicious brunch with live entertainment by Doha Jazz. QR 410 per person including house beverages, or QR 295 including soft drinks. For more information call 4453-5135 or email bnfreservations.wdoha@whotels.com.

WYNDHAM GRAND REGENCY

Marrakesh Night

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

Sharazad Night

Wednesdays: Tangia. Tangia restaurant opens its doors for ladies only every Wednesday to enjoy the delicious wonders of traditional Moroccan cuisine, accompanied by the tunes of mesmerizing music during Sharazad Night. Between 6:30 p.m. till 11:30 p.m. For more information call 4434-3203/3333 or email wgrf&b@wyndham.com.

Sushi Fiesta

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

SPECIAL LISTINGS

ASPIRE KATARA HOSPITALITY

Red Velvet Cupcakery

April: Katara Cultural Village. A party celebration at Red Velvet is fun! Celebrate your children’s birthday party at QR 60 per child with their great birthday party package. Advance reservation is required. For more information call 4408-0700.

April: Ice Cream Sandwich. Enjoy a mouth-watering ice cream sandwich and get a free small bottle of regular water with every purchase. For more information call 4408-0700.

Aspire Grand Café

April: Aspire Park. Try their chicken biryani – a specially-prepared fresh chicken, well-marinated with traditional Indian spices, cooked with fragrant basmati rice and finely-chopped fresh herbs. For more information call 4449-3963.

April: Delight your taste-buds with a speciallyprepared dhal curry cooked with Indian spices, tempered with cumin and served with paratha bread. For more information call 4449-3963.

April: Choose from ready-to-heat soups and a wide selection of hot and cold beverages for dine-in or take-away. For more information call 4449-3963.

April: Enjoy healthy choices for breakfast while visiting the park, including fresh croissants, sunnyside up or omelette egg dishes, and crêpes. For more information call 4449-3963.

Burgeri

April: Aspire Park. Burgeri Fun Meal. Each meal comes in a beautifully-designed Fun Box that includes one fruit juice, an order of regular French Fries, and choice of B. Classic, B. Cheesy, Good Dog or their new B. Bites (served with special sauces). For more information call 4449-3958.

April: Children can now enjoy Burgeri’s Crazy Golf. Play and have fun on a 9-hole mini-golf course this spring by dining at Burgeri. For more information call 4449-3958.

April: A new level of dining experience is now open daily at the Burgeri Rooftop. Open Sun-Wed from 11:00 a.m. till 12 midnight, Thurs & Sat from 11:00 a.m. till 2:00 a.m., and Friday from 12 noon till 2:00 a.m. For more information call 4449-3958.

Sukar Pasha Ottoman Lounge

April: Katara Cultural Village. Reserve a kashta and enjoy sumptuous food and magnificent views for a minimum order of QR 1,500. Daily from 3:00 p.m. till 1:00 a.m. For more information call 4408-2000.

April: For only QR 200 enjoy a rich and traditional Turkish breakfast, daily. From 8:00 a.m. till 11:00 a.m. For more information call 4408-2000.

April: Experience the comfort of their designer VIP beach tents with personalized butler service. Also, their outdoor garden seating is your ideal option to unwind. For more information call 4408-2000.

April: Enjoy a whole lamb seasoned to perfection, charcoal spit-roasted and served with aromatic traditional Machbous rice for take-away. From 3:00 p.m. till 12:00 midnight. For more information call 4408-2000.

April: Take a real creative break and enjoy the new Turkish Business Lunch at Sukar Pasha for only QR 85. From 12 noon till 3:00 p.m., daily. For more information call 4408-2000.

Chac’Late

April: Katara Cultural Village. Their newly-designed breakfast menu now includes an organic egg breakfast, served fresh and healthy at QR 48. For more information call 4408-0733.

April: Enjoy a signature Parisian or Chac’Late breakfast with indoor or outdoor seating. Prices start from QR 30. From 8:00 a.m. till 11:00 a.m. For more information call 4408-0733.

L’wzaar Seafood Market

April: Katara Cultural Village. A fresh selection of cold mezze including classic, mixed or deluxe is now available daily from the a la carte menu. For more information call 4408-0710.

April: A tantalizing special dish of the day is available during lunch and dinner. For more information call 4408-0710.

April: Experience their Tandoori grill and Thai curry cooking styles for your fresh seafood. Other cooking styles are also available. For more information call 4408-0710.

April: Come to L’wzaar and take in their new Marine Life art exhibit, with masterpiece paintings available for sale starting from QR 500. For more information call 4408-0710.

le Vesuvio

April: Katara Cultural Village. Three-Course Lunch. A special table lunch menu consisting of a starter, a main course and a dessert for only QR 75. Available from Sunday to Thursday. For more information call 4408-1500.

April: Pizza Home Delivery. They deliver for a minimum order of 20 pizzas. Advance reservation is highly required. For more information call 4408-1500.

April: A special a la carte menu for children is available daily. For more information call 4408-1500.

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. Kunafa Keshda. Enjoy a unique homemade kunafa roll filled with keshda Available for dine-in and take-away. For more information call 4408-1200.

April: Savour a unique homemade soft kunafa with Nabulsi cheese imported from Jordan for either dine-in or take-away. For more information call 4408-1200.

April: Try their new aesh el saraya – a bread pudding recipe with deep flavours of caramelized sugar and hints of rosewater, topped with homemade fresh cream, pistachios, cashew nuts and a dash of cinnamon. For more information call 4408-1200.

HDC RESTAURANTS AT THE PEARL-QATAR

Al Tabkha

A fast-casual restaurant concept offering healthy home-made Lebanese cuisine in a family friendly environment for dine-in, takeaway or delivery. Open daily from 8:00 a.m. till midnight. Located at Croisette 18, Porto Arabia, The Pearl-Qatar. For more information call 4495-3876, Ext: 5874/5875.

Burj Al Hamam

Offers a wide range of Lebanese traditional dishes and fresh seafood specialties with breath-taking marina views of The Pearl-Qatar. Open daily from 12:00 noon till midnight, and Fridays and Saturdays from 9:00 a.m. till 12 midnight. Located at Croissette 1, Porto Arabia, The Pearl-Qatar. For more information call 4495 3876, Ext: 1291.

Tse Yang

An elegant, chic and high-end Chinese restaurant overlooking a breath-taking marina. Open daily from 12:00 noon till midnight. Located in Croisette 6, Porto Arabia, The Pearl-Qatar. For more information call4495-3876, Ext: 2071.

Megu

A high-end Japanese restaurant providing an exclusive experience second-to- none. Open from 12:00 noon till 3:00 p.m. for lunch, and from 7:00 p.m. till midnight for dinner. Located at Croisette 6, Porto Arabia, The Pearl-Qatar. For more information call 4495-3876, Ext: 2101.

Pampano

A refined, modern Mexican cuisine concept in partnership with Chef Richard Sandoval and Maestro Placido Domingo. Open daily from 12:00 noon till midnight. Featuring live Latin music on Thursdays and Fridays from 7:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. Located at Croisette 1, Porto Arabia, The Pearl-Qatar. For more information call 4495-3876, Ext: 1221.

Alison Nelson’s Chocolate Bar

A slick, chic and stylish café offering salads, desserts, decadent chocolates and ice-cream, alongside dishes that are a delicious choice for lunch, dinner and breakfast. Open daily from 6:00 a.m. till 2:00 a.m. Located at Croisette 1, Porto Arabia, The Pearl-Qatar. For more information call 4495-3876, Ext: 1311.

FOOD & DINING Directory

SPANISH & TEX-MEX

Caminito 4447-0000

Chili’s 4466-0663

El Faro 4035-5555

Ipanema 4419-6100

Latino Steakhouse 4485-3000

Oyster Bay 4446-0105

Paloma 4484-4444

Pampano 4495-3876, Ext: 1221

Rodizio Brazilian Churrascaria 4408-7777

CHINESE

Chopsticks 4434-3333

D’Chopstix 4408-4888

Royal Bafilyon 4411-4458

Ruby Wu’s 4428-1428

Tse Yang 4495-3876, Ext: 2071 Wok of Fame 4413-4772

CONTEMPORARY EUROPEAN

Salsa 4429-8888 Aroma 4405-3325

ARABIC & LEBANESE

Agora

4445-5555

Al Balad 4491-8692

Al Bandar 4431-1818

Al Batross 4432-8888

Al Canteen 4433-6666

Al Mourjan 4483-4423

Al Sayyad 4484-7420

Al Shaheen Restaurant 4485-3000

Al Sufra 4035-5555

Al Sultan Brahim 4446-0105

Al Tabkha 4495-3876, Ext: 5874/5875

Al Tawash 4498-2002

Argan 4433-6666

Burj Al Hamam 4495-3876, Ext: 1291

Istanbul Sultan Dining Restaurant 4468-5089

Khan Rafouk Tarab Café 4408-0840

Kunafa Albisana. 4408-1200

Layali 4431-0005

Lebanese Shawarma 4466-2616

Majlis 4448-1234

Marmara Istanbul 4436-2947

Shawarma Albisana 4408-1400

Sukar Pasha Ottoman Lounge 4408-2000

Tajine 4435-5554

Tangia 4434-3333

Turkey Central 4443-2927

Astor Grill 4446-0105

Belgian Café 4484-4444

Gordon Ramsay 4446-0105

La Mer

4484-8000

Market by Jean-Georges 4453-5135

Nando’s Delivery Hotline 4436-0606

Opal by Gordon Ramsay 4446-0105

FRENCH

La Sahtaine 4423-3333

La Varenne 4499-0680

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

Maxim 4428-1428

Sormani 4495-3876 Ext. 3222

The French Olive 4444-4777

INDIAN

Biryani Hut 4464-1401

Bombay Balti 4428-1428

Chingari 4428-1428

Idyl Factory 6674-1143

Royal Indian 4466-6876

Royal Tandoor

Al Souq St., Jasra 4444-6151

Souq Waqif 4432-3244

Saffron Lounge 3325-8919

Sukh Sagar 4431-9172

Taj Rasoi 4429-8888

INTERNATIONAL

Al Hubara 4485-3000

Al Liwan Restaurant 4424-2888

Al Matbakh Rooftop Grill 4433-6777

ForKnife 4496-6600

Baraha 4447-0000

Blue Brasserie Restaurant 4472-2666

Choices 4402-3333

Corniche 4429-8888

Crossroads Kitchen 4419-6100

Flying Carpet 4446-5600

Grand Gourmet 4434-3333

La Brasserie 4446-2222

La Cigalon Restaurant 4428-8888

Lifestyle Restaurant 4463-2154

Mawasem 4423-3333

Mehfil Restaurant 4409-4444

Nando’s Delivery Hotline 4436-0606

The Dining Room 4433-6666

(Al Najada Boutique Hotel)

The Dining Room 4424-3444 (Fraser Suites Hotel)

The Grill 4448-1234

The Lagoon 4484-8000

The Village Souq Waqif 3331-1558

Three Sixty 4446-5600

Torch Tea Garden 4446-5600

Vine 4446-0105

ITALIAN

Bice Ristorante 4495-3876

Carluccio’s 4495-3876

Cucina 4419-6100

Di Capri 4428-8698

Fabio’s Pizza 4416-5641

II Teatro 4494-8888

La Dolce Vita Italian Restaurant 4436-7991

La Spiga by Paper Moon 4453-5135

La Veranda 4485-3000

le Vesuvio 4408-1500

Paper Moon 4016-6000

Picasso’s 4428-1428

Porcini 4484-8000

Rocca 4448-1272

The Italian Job 4428-1428

New York Steakhouse Marriott Marquis City Center Doha

Rocca The Grand Hyatt

Al Mourjan The Corniche

JAPANESE

Neo 4432-2508

Oishi Sushi 4442-8989

Sakura 4428-1428

Strata Restaurant & Lounge 4015-8888

Sushi Minto 4467-5577

Megu 4495-3876, Ext: 2101

Yen Sushi Bar 4428-8888

MEDITERRANEAN

Aramede 4408-7777

Bistro Bistro 4428-1428

La Villa 4446-2222

Le Central Restaurant 4428-8888

Medi @ The Village 4444-4700

Mykonos 4484-4444

Sawa 4035-5555

The Cellar 4402-3333

PERSIAN

Grill @ The Village 4444-4700

Parisa 4425-6666

Prince Of Persia 4015-0190.

SOUTHEAST ASIAN

Asia Live! 4429-8888

Chowking Delivery Hotline 4431-1212 Mamoura 4486-6077

Al Khor 4411-8816/17

Salwa Road 4437-1212

Al Sadd St. 4431-4411

Holiday Villa 4411-5225/335

Isaan 4448-1250

Mango Tree 4495-3876

Nusantao: Sea Kitchens 4494-8888

Spice Market 4453-5353

Sri Kebaya 4434-0838

The Noodle House

City Center Mall 4411-5063

The Pearl 4495-3876

Wok Mee Noodle House 4496-6600

BAR FOOD

Belgian Café 4484-4444

De Ozone 4470-8822

Madison Piano Bar 4428-8888

Pool Bar 4484-4444

Shehrazad 4428-1428

The Irish Harp 4485-4444

The Lounge 4405-3325

Wahm 4453-5353

AMERICAN & BURGERS

American Grill

4411-0188

Burgeri 4449-3958. Chili’s 4466-0663

Fuddruckers 4483-3983

Hardee’s 4467-8750

Johnny Rockets 4455-2792

Ric’s Kountry Kitchen 4443-7846

TGI Friday’s 4488-7008

SEAFOOD

Almaskar

4485-3000

Al Dana 4425-6666

Al Dente Seafood Restaurant 4472-2666

Al Sayyad 4484-7420

Al Sultan Brahim 4446-0105

Fish Market 4484-4444

L’wzaar Seafood Market 4408-0710

Pampano 4495-3876

Pier 12 4428-1428

STEAKHOUSES

Bentley’s Grill

Alison Nelson’s Chocolate Ba 4495-3876, Ext. 1311

Al Jalsa 4425-6666

Al Kut Lounge 4434-3203

Allegria 4485-3000

Al Mandarine 4463-3748

Anima Gallery & Lounge 4002 7437

Aspire Grand Café 4449-3963

Atrium Lounge 4485-4444

Bab Al Baher 4423-3333

Biscotti 4448-1282

Café Murano 4035-5555

Café Vergnano 4495-3876

Ext. 2611

Chac’Late 4408-2000

Coffee Time 4466-7551

Colombiano 4434-2753

Dean and Deluca 4451-9780

Gourmet House 4405-3333

Jones the Grocer 4407-7175

La Margarita 4409-4444

Le Gourmet 4436-1789

Lime Café 4496-6600 Maya La Chocolatiere Landmark Mall 4486-2264 Villaggio Mall 4417-8132

MBCo The Gate Mall 4407-7130 Al Emaadi Financial Square 4411-7224 Moka and Co 4458-3232

Orangery Café Troittor 4428-8888 Quick Bites 4419-6134 Red Velvet Cupcakery 4408-0700. Sarab Lounge 4446-0105

Savor Café Lounge 4408-7777

Shisha Garden 4428-8888

Sky Lounge 4402-3333

Sugar and Spice 4411-4456

4428-1428

JW’s Steakhouse 4429-8888

Le Grill 4484-7412

New York Steakhouse 4419-6100

Prime 4015-8888

The Anvil Rooms 4499-0685

The Butcher Shop and Grill 4413-5508

The Old Manor Steakhouse 4446-2222

Sweet Temptations 4485-3000

The Courtyard 4433-6444

The Drawing Room 4433-6666

The Lobby Lounge 4484-8000

The Terrace Lounge 4433-6555

Torch Café 4446-5600 W Café 4453-5353

Ya Hala 4423-3333

Tangia Wyndham Grand Regency

Coral InterContinental Doha

Aramede Crowne Plaza Doha – The Business Park

SPORTS Top Picks

QATAR TENNIS FEDERATION

Learn How To Play Tennis

Upon request: Khalifa International Tennis & Squash Complex. Learn how to play tennis with renowned coaches from all over the world, imparting programs that will provide students with the most advanced and professional tennis skills. For more information visit www.qatartennis.org.

ASPIRE ACADEMY

Become

A Professional Athlete

Upon request: Aspire Dome. The Aspire Academy athletics program develops young, talented athletes, selected in partnership with the Qatar Athletic Federation and through the Aspire Academy Talent Identification program. Upon joining, student-athletes are introduced to the full spectrum of athletic disciplines. For more information visit www.aspire.qa.

QATAR SWIMMING ASSOCIATION Qatar Open Water Swimming Championship

May 1: Corniche. Participate in a professional open water race at the Corniche during this annual event. Participants will be divided into the following age groups: 13 to 14-years-old (distance 2 kms); 15 to 17-years-old (distance 3 kms); 17 to 25-years-old (distance 2 kms), and over 25-years-old (distance 1.5 km). For more information visit www.qatarswimming.com.

QATAR RACING & EQUESTRIAN CLUB Al Zubara Cup Day

April 22: Enjoy the power of horse-racing this spring at the Al Zubara Cup Day as colts and geldings carry 58 kg and mares carry 56 kg. For more information visit www.qrec.gov.qa

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA Pilates Sculpt

Tuesdays: Fitness Studio. Features slow and controlled movements in a series of nonimpact exercises using toning balls, elastic bands and your own body-weight. The class helps develop abdominal strength, lengthens muscles, while improving flexibility and postural alignment. From 9:15 a.m. till 10:15 a.m., members QR 30/ non-members QR 50. For more information call 4484-4444.

The Road To The Qatar Cup

By Mitch Freeley – QSL

Images courtesy of

The Qatar Stars League

The Qatar Stars League is soon to come to a dramatic conclusion, ending the season on a high with the second ever Qatar Cup – previously known as the Heir Apparent Cup—taking place this April. QH sat down with the league’s Executive Director of Competition & Football Development, Ahmad Al Harmi to talk about the showpiece tournament that brings to a close the domestic football season in Qatar.

QH: Are you excited about the upcoming Qatar Cup tournament?

AAH: Of course, the Qatar Cup is the big finale to a long Qatar Stars League season – I’m fully expecting a competitive tournament with plenty of action to excite the fans. After all, the tournament will have the four best teams in the country.

QH: Can you tell us a bit about the format and who will be involved?

AAH: The format is simple. The top four teams in the Qatar Stars League automatically qualify for the Qatar Cup. First place will face fourth, and second position will play third place in two semifinal matches, with the winner of those games playing in the final for the prestigious Qatar Cup trophy. At the moment, the top four positions are yet to be decided as we are still currently competing in the Qatar Stars League.

A player from El-Jaish Club hoists the Qatar Cup trophy as they took home the victory last year

Fans and players rejoice after the 2014 final

Ahmad Al Harmi, Executive Director of Competition & Football Development for the QSL

QH: What’s the history behind the Qatar Cup?

AAH: The Qatar Cup has had several guises, but it’s always been seen as the end-of-season tournament that brings a close to the Qatar Stars League. In the 2013/14 season the League rebranded the Heir Apparent Cup to the Qatar Cup. In terms of winners, Al Sadd has won the tournament on five occasions, with Al Rayyan close behind on four and Qatar Sports Club on three wins. The last team to have the honour of lifting the cup with its old name [The Heir Apparent Cup] was Lekhwiya, as they beat Al Sadd in the 2012/13 season. El Jaish defeated Lekhwiya last year on penalties to become the first ever Qatar Cup winners.

QH: Looking to the future how will the QSL develop?

AAH: Our aim in two years is to be the most technologically-advanced league in the world. This is the best way to create talent for the league; each club uses the latest football technology, which can be used to give analysis and feedback to develop players. All 14 QSL clubs have access to this software which also creates a level playing field for all the clubs when it comes to data analysis – something which is unique in the GCC. So in the coming years I expect a stronger reliance on football data, which will directly aid teams in matches – that’s something that I’m looking forward to. Certainly, we are also looking to develop the best young Qatari football talent at every opportunity, supported by high-quality foreign players and coaches which will hopefully lead to greater national success in the future. n

QATAR CUP 2015

Dates: April 26-May 1

Location: Stadium venue TBA

Ticket Info: Visit www.qsl.com.qa or follow @QSL on Twitter

Lekhwiya celebrate a goal

Post-match celebrations for 2014 champions El-Jaish

Spring Sport Preview

By Rodger Gillen

In April, Qatar is hosting a range of world-class motor, beach and equestrian events this month –not to mention a host of many domestic finals before the start of the warmer summer season. QH decided to have a look at the best sporting events in April.

Doha will host the second edition of the GCC Beach Games in April. Over 300 athletes from across the GCC will participate in 13 events across seven sporting disciplines from April 2-9. The multi-purpose complex at Al-Gharafa Club will host the volleyball, handball, football and 3x3 basketball events, while Katara Cultural Village, will host open-water swimming, rowing and sailing.

If beach sports don’t take your interest, the Qatar Racing and Equestrian Club has a full complement of racing events across the month of April. Races are held every Wednesday and Thursday evening of the month, starting from 4:00 p.m. at the club in Al-Rayyan. Highlights include the prestigious Loyalty Cup taking place on April 9.

Qatar is also hosting two prestigious events in the world of motor-sport. First up is the Qatar International Enduro-Cross held at Sealine Beach Resort from April 19-24. Competitors from the world of cars, motor-bikes and quad-bikes will convene for the six-day event. Last year, FIA racer Vladimir Vasilyev and former Dakar Rally champion Marc Coma where the star names in a field that included car and motorcycle drivers from 18 different countries.

Intense heat, wind and dust, coupled with tricky navigation and varied landscapes make this one of

the most challenging events of its kind on the planet and a crucial test event for competitors keen to prepare for the next Dakar Rally.

The Qatar Racing Club is also running a full calendar of events including two major drag and drift-racing meetings. Fans will get the chance to watch the impressive drag vehicles in action at The Qatar Mile event held on the weekends of the 17 and 24 of April. The aim of the event is to allow participants to reach their top speed over a distance of 804 metres – on an actual airport runway! Spectators enjoy seeing the cars and bikes on the track along with various family activities across the airstrip to ensure a great day out for the family.

Domestically, Qatar will host a range of finals across football, basketball, volleyball and handball – the highlight of which being the Qatar Cup, the big finale to a long Qatar Stars League season. The top four sides in the league will battle it out at the end of April for the Qatar Cup trophy. So with a jampacked schedule, April is your month to get your fix of exciting sport. n

• More info on horse-racing: www.qrec.gov.qa

• More info on Qatar International Enduro-Cross: www.qmmf.com

• More info on the Qatar Racing Club: www.qrc.qa

• More info on QSL/Qatar Cup: www.qsl.com.qa

The best teams in the QSL will compete this month for the coveted Qatar Cup

Motocross racers hit the dunes near Sealine

The equestrian season winds down with the Loyalty Cup this April

World Cup In A Winter Wonderland...

By John Hunt

With FIFA’s recent announcement that the 2022 World Cup will officially be moved to Qatar’s cooler months of Nov/Dec 2022, we explore the implications of this monumental move.

Last month in these very pages I opined that the silence of the Supreme Committee for Delivery and Legacy (SCDL) in the face of continued questions from the media worldwide about the climatic viability of the 2022 World Cup was harmful to the tournament and needed to be answered.

With another searing summer on the way, a simple solution was floated: use the first

available stadium boasting the much-vaunted carbon-free cooling technology to play a friendly match in high summer, and prove that what Qatar promised in its bid for 2022, could be delivered.

Alas, fates (and deadlines) conspired to make my piece redundant pretty much as soon as it went to print as it transpired that SCDL had been keeping quiet as it engaged in talks with FIFA about moving the 2022 World Cup from summer, to winter.

Provisionally, the contest is now likely to take place in November and December of 2022, with the final match, reportedly, taking place on December 18 – Qatar National Day. Things will be clearer by the time you read this with the FIFA Executive Committee having met late last month (deadlines! again!), with this topic high on the agenda, but it can be said with certainty that the 2022 World Cup will not, as is customary, take place during the northern hemisphere’s summer months. So Qatar 2022 will certainly be unique in that respect. However, it would be a mistake to think that this switch will present no obstacles in that while certain logistical complications in Qatar will cease to be a problem, others will pop up in their place.

As far as the host nation is concerned, gone is the need for the carbon-neutral cooling technology to be built into the eight World Cup stadiums. Gone is the need for 32 cooled training facilities, one for each of the qualifying teams. Gone is the need for the cooling of the fan zones and gone is the risk of visitors inadvertently harming themselves by underestimating the power of the summer sun. But as one block of issues is sidestepped, another appears in its place…

Now we have a World Cup scheduled to take place when all of the major European Leagues (whose clubs employ roughly 80% of the players seen at last year’s World Cup) are underway, when the Champions League and Europa League Competitions are underway. Even the domestic cup competitions and the qualifying matches for EURO2024 are likely to be taking place at this time and clubs from the big European leagues aren't best pleased about this.

The US is a market that FIFA is trying to woo, but American football, ice hockey and basketball leagues will be in full swing, which represents an issue in terms of television clashes and advertising revenue. As previously discussed, the World Cup is nothing without fans. Will people – Europeans and South Americans especially – travel to the Middle East so close to Christmas? I guess there's only one way to find out!

So while the obstacles and challenges faced by a summer World Cup in 2022 have changed significantly, they have not disappeared entirely, merely mutated. n

FIFA President Sepp Blatter draws Qatar's name on December 2, 2010, as the host of the 2022 FIFA World Cup

A Weighty Issue

By Karine Hajjar

It’s a fitness urban legend that caffeine consumption can help with weight loss. The nutrition specialists at Fitness With Food help us separate fact from fiction.

We all have our own take on caffeine –is it good or is it bad? There are those of us who don’t have a pulse in the morning until we’ve had our first cup of java, while there are others whose school of thought is ‘should I skip it altogether, or maybe just stick to a daily limit?’

Caffeine in moderation is a good thing. It improves cognitive function, interferes in anti-inflammatory processes and helps reduce pain, inhibits insulin resistance, and speeds up your metabolism. The trick is not to overdo it! Too much caffeine can actually make us gain weight by burning out our adrenal glands and releasing stress hormones.

For this reason, 400 milligrams (mg) a day should be the limit. (That's the equivalent of one

to two large cups of coffee, depending on how strongly it's brewed.)

If you're someone who drinks a lot of caffeine and thus has a high tolerance for it, you may want to consider first breaking your addiction and letting your body get used to no caffeine for a while.That way, when you eventually do ingest a small amount of caffeine you'll actually benefit from the effects. If you want to ingest your caffeine through coffee, start with just one cup to see how you feel. If needed, you may drink a cup or two extra to boost your energy and alertness. Personally, I sometimes like to add coffee to my protein shake. It's tasty and gives me just the boost I need to have a great workout!

Some sources of caffeine are better than others. Organic, filtered coffee (not doctored up with sugar, artificial sweeteners, or cream) is okay. Green tea is a better choice because it promotes fat oxidation and is believed to improve insulin sensitivity and boost your metabolism.

Limit your intake of caffeinated beverages to one or two a day —

and because caffeine is a diuretic, you should drink one glass of water for every caffeinated drink. Also, you should have your last caffeinated drink before noon so that it doesn't interfere with your sleep.

If you're not currently drinking coffee or getting caffeine in other ways, you don't need to start ingesting it. You can enjoy good weight-loss and fitness results without it.

However, if you're already a coffee drinker or you otherwise ingest caffeine regularly, the good news is that you don't have to stop. Since it seems to be more beneficial than harmful – and because it does give you a slight edge in the gym – you can keep enjoying your caffeine. Just be sure to do it in moderation to avoid getting addicted and having more than the optimal limit. So, get brewing! n

Caffeine may be more beneficial to the body than first thought

By Jonny Parr

What does it take to reach a peakform level of strength? The pros from Absolute Health & Fitness chat with Scottish boxing guru Ryan Scott to find out what it takes to get fit as a fighter.

As I write this article, I’m currently back home in my beloved Glasgow, Scotland. Currently, it’s a bitter cold four degrees Celsius and I can barely feel my ears and fingertips. I’m situated in an old, no-frills results-focused gym, huddling around the one radiator that works. I’ve not long finished my training session and I’m still trying to recuperate from the lactic acid present in my legs from pushing the dreaded prowler – a simple yet brutal piece of equipment that you merely push, but makes you scream to the high heavens.

me

Scott. Today is his second session of the day in which his trainer Andy Tsang, is looking to develop his strength, power output, work capacity and general conditioning. His first session started at 6:00 a.m. when he ran up hills and flights of stairs. Sound crazy? Well he wasn’t finished there. In the evening he was to have his third and regular skills-based session specific to his adored boxing.

This type of commitment has a reason of course, as Ryan is to compete in a huge boxing event in May against Scottish Middleweight Champion Gary McCallum. With such an important match on the horizon, I had a huge interest in how he, and other boxers, prepare for such a mentally and physically-draining event. This has led me to observe how he trains and what he eats, courtesy of his strength and conditioning coach Andy Tsang.

Typical Week

Mon: GPP/Strength and Conditioning (with Andy) & Boxing

Tues: GPP & Boxing

Wed: GPP/Strength and Conditioning (with Andy) & Boxing

Thurs: GPP & Boxing

Fri: GPP/Strength and Conditioning (with Andy) & Boxing

Sat: GPP & Boxing

Sun: Rest or Active Rest (40-minute run)

*GPP – General Physical Preparedness

Timing Schedule

Of A Typical Day

6:00 a.m. – GPP

12 noon – Strength and Conditioning/Injury Reduction/Postural Work

7:00 p.m. – Boxing (skill-training)

Beside

is local professional boxer Ryan

What does it take to be the top of your game? We head into the ring to find out!

We will focus on his Strength and Conditioning/ Injury Reduction/Postural Work sessions that currently take place three times per week. Here’s an example of a session he undertook.

Warm-Up

A: Foam-rolling

B: Dynamic warm-up

C: Activation

D: CNS – Jump squats 3 sets of 10 reps

Power-Based Movement 1

A: Hip power-snatch, 3 sets of 5 reps

Power-Based Movement 2

A: Trap-bar dead-lift, 3 sets of 5 reps

Assistance Exercises (Superset*)

A1: Paused barbell back squats, 3 sets of 5 reps

A2: T-bar rows, 3 sets of 5-10 reps

* Performed the above exercises back-to-back with no rest.

Core

A: Abs wheel roll-outs, 3 sets of 10 reps

Restoration

A: Static stretching B: Foam rolling

Typical Food Schedule

5:00 a.m. – Porridge/oats/blueberries/raspberries

7:30 a.m. – Chicken, sweet potato and vegetables

11:00 a.m. – Apple and banana

1:30 p.m. – Omelet and vegetables. Spoonful of peanut butter.

5:00 p.m. – Apple and banana

8:30 p.m. – Fish, vegetables and brown rice

Note - Ryan also has three post-workout protein shakes

It’s clear from the breakdowns above that to compete at the very highest level within boxing requires a great degree of commitment, discipline, planning and having the correct social network and professionals working with these athletes in their respective fields.

In almost all instances preparation is key and Ryan couldn’t be more prepped at the moment as he looks forward to battling on the canvas yet again. While we all don’t adhere to being professional boxers we can all take lessons from how they prepare in terms of nutrition and training. I’m not suggesting training three times per day but certainly incorporating

elements such as GPP, Strength Training, Injury Reduction and Postural Work can all benefit us when we look to our own personal fitness and nutritional routines. What’s more, for a lot of us, eating six times per day is unrealistic – but having at least three balanced meals per day will pay dividends to both your fitness and health.

If you want to be more functional, drop body-fat, get stronger and generally feel better, then key components used to improve boxing performance are real areas for you and everyone to consider. I personally intend to include elements of what I learned from both Ryan and Andy. Certainly, I’ll be using boxing drills with clients to improve their conditioning. I’m sure they’ll enjoy and revel in this type of training – you guys should consider it also. n

Jonny Parr is the founder and CEO of Absolute Health & Fitness. For more information on personal training options call 3385-2696 or visit www.absolutehealthandfitness.org.

Diet, dedication and stamina are an athlete's training trifecta

SPORTS Listings

QH RECOMMENDS

MARSA MALAZ KEMPINSKI Tennis

Daily: Make use of their outdoor tennis court on the island grounds, with private or group lessons with coaches. For more information call 4035-5555, email spa.marsamalaz@kempinski.com, or visit www.kempinski.com/marsamalaz.

EVERY WEEK

DOHA MARRIOTT

New Personal Trainer

Upon request: The Marriott’s comprehensive gym offers more than just regular treadmills and resistance equipment. Here they integrate equipment and personal training and include variety and creativity to help you explore and enjoy what suits and works for you. The experienced, new generation certified personal trainer, belonging to ACE (American Council on Exercise), Coach Andrew, will keep you engaged and motivated with his invigorating and results-driven methodology. Enjoy one 30-minute consultation with Coach Andrew for free. Valid until April 30, 2015. For more information call 4429-8520.

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA Fitball

Sundays: Fitball is an effective body-conditioning class for all fitness levels and has been a huge success in changing people’s lives, making them feel stronger, prepared for more physical-impact exercises, and overcoming physical and emotional barriers. The Fitball sessions are welcoming with a relaxed, supportive atmosphere. All classes are small and friendly. Members QR 30/Non-members QR 50. From 9:30 a.m. till 10:30 a.m. For more information call 4484-4852.

Pi-Yo

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

TRX Fitness

Sun & Tues: Another name for this challenging class is suspension training. Participants will be working against gravity using their own bodyweight and TRX equipment to complete a series of exercises. It helps to develop strength, balance, flexibility and core stability simultaneously. Members, QR 30/non-members, QR 50. Sundays from 10:30 a.m. till 11:30 a.m., and Tuesdays from 6:00 p.m. till 6:45 p.m. For more information call 4484-4852.

LA CIGALE

Tone & Shape

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

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

The Ultimate Core

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

Explosive Cardio

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

MARRIOTT MARQUIS CITY CENTER DOHA Yoga Classes

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

MARSA MALAZ KEMPINSKI Fitness Classes

Daily: The Health Club. Numerous fitness classes are available, including body-pump, boot camp, abs workout, Pilates, body-weight, Zumba, yoga, pushup challenge and more. Classes start from QR 75 per person. For more information call 4035-5555, email spa.marsamalaz@kempinski.com, or visit www.kempinski.com/marsamalaz.

The Gym

Daily: The Health Club. A state-of-the-art space with female-only and mixed fitness areas, the latest Technogym equipment, two fitness group studios, a personal training studio and male and female wet relaxation areas. For more information call 4035-5555, email spa.marsamalaz@kempinski.com, or visit www.kempinski.com/marsamalaz.

THE FOUR SEASONS Power Yoga

This is 75 minutes of dynamic yoga practice including strengthening vinyasa positions. Energizing and detoxifying, the practice improves balance, strength and flexibility. QR 80 per person. For more information call 4494-8888.

Cycling

Enjoy a 60-minute Activio cycling class that targets the 65-85% heart rate zone. QR 60 per person. For more information call 4494-8888.

Boot Camp

Enjoy a 60-minute outdoor workout that combines body-weight exercises, interval training and strength exercises, resembling a military workout. QR 80 per person. For more information call 4494-8888

Activities & Clubs

Bike Riding

The Corniche Aspire Park

Bowling

The Qatar Bowling Center 4432-9178 or www.qatarbowlingcenter.net

Gondolania Bowling Center (Villaggio) 4403-9807 or www.gondolania.com

Strike Bowling Alley (City Center) 4483-9162

Golf

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

Horse Riding

Al Khor Riding Center 4421-8857

Al Samariya Stables 5525-7203 or qatarracing@gmail.com

Al Shaqab Riding Academy 4454-6236 or www.alshaqab.com

Ice-Skating

Winter Wonderland (City Center) 4483-9162

Gondolania Ice Arena (Villaggio) 4403-9807 or www.gondolania.com

Sailing

Doha Sailing Club 4443-9840 or www.qmsf.com

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

Royal Yachting Association Courses www.ryacourses-qatar.com

Swimming

Aspire Academy for Sporting Excellence 4413-6219 or www.aspire.qa

Aqua Park 4490-5872 or aquaparkqa@gmail.com

Tennis & Squash

Khalifa Tennis & Squash Complex 4440-9666

Walking Park at Museum of Islamic Art

The Corniche

The Pearl-Qatar (2.5 km) Aspire Park

QH SENSATIONS Top Picks

Now Open: A 3,000 square-metre European spa featuring legendary products and treatments by Clarins. Facilities include 23 treatment rooms, male and female wellness areas and wet relaxation areas, laconiums, saunas and steam-rooms and two indoor pools (male and female). For more information call 4035-5555, email spa.marsamalaz@kempinski.com or visit www.kempinski.com/marsamalaz.

SHARQ VILLAGE & SPA Thai Treat

Upon request: Six Senses Spa. Begin your Thai journey with a 50-minute full-body scrub, using a mixture of herbs such as tamarind and turmeric to remove dead skin-cells. This is followed by the application of a body moisturizer made from natural ingredients such as oatmeal, milk powder and honey to hydrate and nourish the skin. In addition, enjoy half an hour of Thai stretching to loosen tight muscles and complete the experience with a delicious lemongrass ice tea. QR 800. Open daily from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. For bookings call 4425-6999 or email reservations-sharq-spa@sixsenses.com.

HILTON DOHA Skin And Body Fit

All-Month: Eforea Spa. Purchase six Eforea Spa treatments and get six complimentary full day-passes. Price depending on the treatment chosen. For more information call 4423-3443.

THE FOUR SEASONS Spring Indulgence

April 1-June 15: Spa and Wellness Centre. Experience a revitalizing and detoxifying mineral salt and Balinese massage that relaxes body, mind and spirit, followed by a full indulging facial. QR 1,325 per person, for a 2 ½ hour treatment. Available from 9:00 a.m. till 9:00 p.m. For more information call 4494-8802 or email spa.doh@fourseasons.com.

DOHA MARRIOTT Pevonia Stem-Cells Anti-Aging Facial

All-Month: This ground-breaking, freeze-dried treatment redefines the anti-aging facial! Infused with the first-ever blend of argan and comfrey stemcells and supercharged with ‘de-agers’ like collagen, retinol, elastin and other key actives, this treatment starts working from the very first application, visibly reducing lines and wrinkle depth like never seen before. Ask the spa desk for more details. Receive a 30% discount for an introductory facial. For reservations call 4429-8520.

MARSA MALAZ KEMPINSKI Spa By Clarins

The Lap Of Luxury

By Ashlee Starratt and Jorge Granda

Eager for a tranquil retreat, we head to the lush surroundings of The Four Seasons Spa & Wellness Centre for an afternoon of springtime pampering that lives up to its promise of ultimate rejuvenation. Can you say ‘Ohm’?

A Taste Of The Tropics

If the warm scent of magnolia blossom conjures up images of beachside afternoons in Thailand then The Four Seasons Spa’s Tropical Magnolia Experience could be considered an out-of-body occurrence for some. The properties of magnolia –from its bark, buds and oil – have long been used in Chinese herbal medicine to treat abdominal upsets, reduce bloating, aid with respiratory illness and as a powerful antioxidant. Today, as I enter the

calming luxury of the spa, my therapist May tells me that all products used – from the foot scrub, soap, massage oil and aromatherapy essence –contain magnolia and are manufactured by Sodashi. Chemical-free and all-organic, the brand is ideal for those with allergies or skin sensitivities and as I sink my feet into the steaming water for the footbath ritual, the steam is imbued with the flower’s soft fragrance.

As May first exfoliates, then cleanses my feet she tells me that where she’s from in northern Thailand’s Chiang Mai region, magnolia trees grow in the yards of nearly every home. She says that two trees grow in her family’s own yard – yellow and white blossoms – and she’s searching for a third seedling to plant with elusive pink buds, which can be found in the city’s bustling markets but at a costly price.

After my feet are cleansed, May has me lay face-up on the massage table. She places a warm compress under my neck, across my abdomen and under my legs to support my knees. She then

channels the energy in the room with a monastic bell ritual signaling that the treatment is in session. She begins with a sedating scalp, neck and facial massage – always my favourite part of any spa visit. As I’m lulled towards sleep, she gently moves on to my arms and legs, stretching them out as well as kneading them gently in long movements that barely miss a beat.

It’s sometimes uncomfortable having your abdomen massaged, but you actually don’t realize how much the process aids in digestion. If you’re experiencing bloating, water retention or any kind of intestinal upset, a brief abdominal massage helps move things right along. Afterwards, May has me turn face-down and she repeats the whole process on my back, legs and arms. The ritual finishes with a delightfully calming inhalation of pure magnolia essential oil that brings me back to consciousness.

Once ambulatory, May guides me to the relaxation room where I can recline on one of their loungers with a hot cup of Japanese matcha tea and some

Guests can indulge posttreatment in the Wellness Centre's water-therapy room

fresh dates before heading back to the changing rooms. I must give kudos to The Four Seasons for having one of the most comprehensive spa facilities I’ve encountered – not a single detail is overlooked. From shampoo, fresh toiletries and hair-dryers, if you’ve forgotten to bring an item, chances are they have it there waiting for you. I head out refreshed, revived and relaxed, with the scent of magnolia blossom still lingering on the air.

A Spring Clean

Any type of spa treatment is always nice and relaxing – let’s be honest, everyone likes to be pampered once in a while. The majority of spas in Doha provide clients with many different treatment options and more often than not the experience is more than pleasant.

Since I’ve been working for QH I’ve reviewed many spas, but one of the top three for me is the Spa & Wellness Centre at The Four Seasons. Not only is its décor perfectly decorated with earthy elements and the ambiance sublime, but the attention you

receive is top-notch. The professionalism of the staff is remarkable, making you feel you’re spending your money in the right place. Yes, it’s a bit more expensive than other facilities across town, but it’s definitely worth it.

I’ve visited the Spa & Wellness Centre many times since 2011 and not once have been disappointed or not completely satisfied. Every single treatment I’ve experienced here has always been up to the highest possible standards – whether a facial, body-wrap or a massage, the immediate results are visible. The skill of their therapists and quality of products are unmatchable in the market – a true testament of why The Four Seasons is not only a beautiful property with high-end restaurants, but also has one of the best spas in the region.

This time around I submerged myself in their 2 ½ hour Spring Indulgence treatment. For some it may seem like a very long session, but it’s so impeccably carried out that the time just passes by. The treatment consists of a revitalizing and detoxifying mineral salt scrub and Balinese massage, followed by a facial.

In my opinion massages in general are very similar to one another and their success or failure depends purely on the therapist. My masseur was extraordinary, applying the right amount of pressure to every single area and constantly checking if I was

comfortable without being obnoxious. Something I really enjoyed was the tap-water she opened that provides a soothing and relaxing noise. She also placed warm cushions under my feet and neck adding to the comfort of the experience.

The facial was just as good as the massage. It pretty much consisted of the application of different creams and rubbing them all over my face and neck, followed by a 15-minute mask. While the mask set I received a blissful scalp massage. As always I was very impressed with the treatment and the facilities as a hole. There’s a reason why The Four Seasons is one of the most sought-after by those who want a first-class spa journey. n

THE FOUR SEASONS SPA & WELLNESS CENTRE

Location: The Four Seasons, adjacent to the main hotel building

Timings:

• 9:00 a.m. till 6:00 p.m., spa treatments

• 6:00 a.m. till 11:00 p.m., general facility hours

Prices:

• QR 795, 75-minute Tropical Magnolia Experience

• QR 1,325, 2 ½ hour Spring Indulgence Seasonal Treatment

Contact Info: Call 4494-8888 or visit www.fourseasons.com

The tranquility of the natural elements reigns supreme in the spa's carefully-crafted décor

Country Life

By John Hunt

We pack our bags and head to the English countryside for a weekend stay at The Four Seasons Hampshire, where lush landscapes blend with ancient heritage on a quick detour to Stonehenge

Twice I’ve enjoyed a stay at Four Seasons properties (Lisbon, London) which were in the middle of the respective capitals. Being at the centre of the action obviously has many advantages, but what if – to use the well-worn phrase – you want a break where you can ‘get away from it all’?

One solution to this conundrum is The Four Seasons Hampshire hotel which is set in extensive (500-acre) – and very quiet – grounds in the rolling countryside of that eponymous English County. The property is dominated by an impressive, Georgian country house, which is augmented by a collection of smaller buildings behind it which have been amalgamated into the hotel main as rooms, restaurants, bars, function suites and a spa in an eclectic manner. The ensemble is a pleasing mix of historic and modern.

We were guided to our room through the labyrinthine corridors by a member of staff who told

us that we’d secured ‘something quite nice’ for our stay, rather an understatement when our door opened into a corner suite with hall, mammoth living/dining room and bedroom with en suite facilities.

The suite was decorated in an impeccable ‘English Country’ style, yet had an array of modern amenities in terms of lounge and bedroom flat-screen TVs, DVD players, WiFi and such-like. Tucked up in a quiet corner of Hampshire, we were indeed ‘away from it all’. So, nothing to do but put your feet up and relax, right? Wrong, and this is the hotel’s unique selling point – there are numerous activities available of which you partake as little or as much as you like.

An extensive spa complex features a cardio fitness centre, large pool, sauna and steam-rooms and, unusually, a ‘swim-through’ door from the pool to a spa pool outdoors. On one nocturnal swim, we tried the bubble pool, and it was a unique experience to have a spa bath, outdoors, at night.

Outside the walls of the hotel, you can experience horse-riding at the new, purpose-built equestrian centre, mountain-biking (complimentary), fishing, tennis, croquet, falconry, clay pigeon-shooting and a new attraction, the ‘Highwire Adventure’. Sadly, this was incomplete during our visit late last year, so if you want to experience what is described as ‘an exhilarating tree-top challenge for adventurers and thrill-seekers of all ages and abilities’ then you’ll

have to try it yourself. It boasts a 235-metre zip-line though, which sounds fun.

So we’ve established that if you want to find solitude and inertia with The Four Seasons’ stamps of luxury and service, then its Hampshire property is the answer. Simultaneously, however, there is the array of family-friendly activities in which you can partake, should you want the solitude, but not the inertia.

At the same time, you’re only just over an hour by train from London, as well as being close to other attractions of note, as we discovered. In terms of food, beverage and service, The Four Seasons excelled as usual. We took dinner one evening (sea bass for her, chargrilled chicken for me) which was faultless in execution, and breakfast the same.

The Four Seasons Hampshire is, by any yardstick, an exceptional hotel, with a different twist in terms of location and amenities and our visit there will live long in the memory. A double room with breakfast starts from QR 1,800 a night. To book visit www.fourseasons.com/hampshire.

Stones Alone

While London is 70 minutes by train in one direction, the same amount of time travelling west takes you to Salisbury and from there by bus to Stonehenge, the world-famous and instantly-recognizable Neolithic site.

The ring of massive standing stones are believed to be about 5,000 years old and while they have been fairly accurately dated, mystery surrounds what the construction was actually for. Theories abound that Stonehenge was an astronomical observatory, a site for religious worship, a burial ground, or a mix of all three, and more.

It is this mystery – and the remarkable fact that many of these enormous stones are still standing 5,000 years after they were raised – that is the basis of their odd allure.

We visited on a calm, sunny day which helped us appreciate the monument. While Neolithic religion, nor spiritualism, are strong suits of mine, there is an undeniable sense of serenity, mystery and an unusual power that emanates from the circle. It’s difficult to describe, but wonderful to behold.

There’s a brand-new visitor centre adjacent to the monument which takes you through the history of the site from its inception to the present day, but a definitive answer as to the purpose of Stonehenge still eludes us. Perhaps it should remain that way?

The monument is divisive in terms of its merit as a tourist attraction, but we both found it fascinating, and a must-see. It was the perfect adjunct to our hotel pampering. Definitely see it if you get the chance. Entry is QR 100. n

The prehistoric monument of Stonehenge near Salisbury guards its secret of construction across the centuries

The estate-like grandeur of The Four Seasons Hampshire

A suite at The Four Seasons Hampshire

As usual, The Four Seasons' menu scaled the heights

Go for a ramble along the rolling hills of the English heartland

The Dish On Qatar

By Aisha Javaid

Are you new in Doha? Want a change from the typical weekend brunch hang-out? Slightly tired of malls or outdoor restaurants? What if we told you that this beautiful desert we call home actually has some great green spaces – would you be skeptical? Think again.

Sunset over Aspire Park

In this issue of Dish on Qatar, we’ll be taking a look at all of the great green spaces to enjoy with family and friends. These spaces are a great excuse to explore different corners around the city as they take you away from the conventional tourist spots and open you up to the great facilities Doha residents can use yearround. And for those of you just settling in? Let us help you get your bearings.

Aspire Park

Aspire Park is located behind Hyatt Plaza and parallel to Villaggio Mall and opens from 6:00 a.m. till 10:00 p.m. We should mention that it’s a family park and entry is not usually granted to single men. Stretching over a vast 880,000 m2 it’s among the largest parks in the Middle East. Featuring sprawling swaths of green with a large pond in the middle, Aspire also has additional cafés and sitting areas, and with hills throughout it can be a fun place to roll down for young kiddos!

Want to get in some exercise while your kids play? Aspire has just what you need. Throughout its expanse, there are exercise machines with views of the great pond and massive track –a perfect way to keep an eye on the kids while getting in some exercise.

Special Factoid: When you go to the park, take a look at the over 35 different species of trees! For more information visit www.aspirezone.qa.

Barzan Olympic Park

If you’re feeling slightly adventurous and would really like to see the other side of Doha, we highly suggest an afternoon at Barzan. This large Olympic park opened in 2012 and is located past IKEA, north of Um Saal. The motivation behind its opening was to further expand recreational services in Qatar. If you’re new to the country with kids, this is a great way for the little ones to interact with one another. The nice, shaded areas of grass next to the playground are a great place for a picnic with friends and family –and while the weather’s still good, it’s important to take this opportunity to be as active as you can.

The park is open from 6:00 a.m. till 10:00 p.m. with the exception of Monday when gates open at 4:00 p.m. There’s plentiful shaded parking located right outside the perimeter, making it easy to visit even on warmer days. The entrance fee is QR 10 per person, though the fee is waived for visitors with disabilities. All of the facilities offered inside the park are free as well and animals are permitted. Additional charges include the use of the bikes provided on-site at the bicycle track (you can also bring you own), as well as the train which takes you around the grounds for about QR 5.

Special Factoid: Want to know how much your exercise paid off? No problem – just take a look at the billboard near the park entrance that will not only tell you how many calories you burned but how many steps you took while doing so! For more information visit www.barzanpark.com or call 4499-7544.

MIA Park

The Museum of Islamic Art Park earns its points for having one of the best views in the city of the West Bay skyline. Head to the café, lounge on the comfortable chairs and look off over the beautiful waters of The Corniche. Or, plan a family picnic on the vast green space right in front of the Museum. The park opens from 10:30 a.m. till 11:00 p.m. every day, and is closed on Tuesdays.

MIA Park is also equipped with an entertaining array of play structures ideal for kids between the ages of two up to 16. It also offers a great path for bike lovers to cycle along the concrete platform right next to the water and bicycle services are offered on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays from 12 noon till 5:00 p.m, as well as weekend services from 12 noon till 5:30 p.m. Added amenities include paddleboats on The Corniche which can be rented for QR 25 from 12 noon till 5:30 p.m.

Special Factoids:

• While lounging at the café, be wary of all the cats! If you haven’t noticed yet, Doha is home to many feline creatures who can be more than eager to take part in your coffee conversation!

• Looking for some homemade goodies? Join MIA Park’s open bazaar every Saturday from 12 noon till 8:00 p.m., with an array of over 100 market stalls. You can purchase different handmade arts and crafts including jewelry, home items and even souvenirs.

• Want to kill two birds with one stone? Why not take part in one of MIA’s great outdoor activities, such as kayaking, paddle-boating and fitness training. Not only will you be getting in some good exercise, but you can meet new people at the same time. For women new to Doha, the park offers ladies-only fitness classes at 5:00 p.m. every Tuesday in a selective area of the park shut off to the rest of the public.

Enjoy live music? The park hosts a wide range of concerts events to spice up your weekends!

• Jazz Nights: Visit MIA Park’s jazz nights in the park from 6:00 p.m. till 8:00 p.m. The next two are coming up on Monday, April 15 and Wednesday, May 17. Featuring the talented sounds of artists from The St. Regis’ Jazz At Lincoln Center Doha, they’re a great way to enjoy a world-class music for free!

• Friday Night Live: This is a very cool program for youth that offers opportunities for children and young artists to perform for the general public. This month’s events will be held on April 3 and 17.

Though Doha is filled with many tourist attractions, it’s important to be adventurous and explore the alternative spots it has to offer – especially if you’re a newcomer. These parks are truly a beautiful sight to see, with world-class facilities to be taken advantage of. We hope that by swinging by for a visit, new arrivals will feel more settled and part of the Doha community that many are lucky to call home. So pack a picnic and some sunscreen and head out into the great wide open before it gets too hot! n

Jazz In The Park has become one of MIA's most-popular community events

Barzan Olympic Park is an ideal weekend destination for families with children

WISH 2015

QNCC Feb 18, 2015

QATAR FACULTY OF ISLAMIC STUDIES GRAND OPENING

Education City March 20, 2015

Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser delivers the opening address at the World Innovation Summit for Health (WISH) 2015.

Photo Credit: AR Al-Baker/HHOPL

Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser with other high-level government and royal delegates at the opening session of WISH 2015

Photo Credit: Maher Attar/HHOPL

Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser opens the new state-of-the art building of QFIS, a college of Hamad Bin Khalifa University.

Photo Credit: AR Al-Baker / HHOPL

Hala Mohammed Al Khalifa speaks about the Artists In Residence Program at the newly-opened Fire Station space

QATAR MUSEUMS MEDIA LUNCH

Idam Restaurant, Museum Of Islamic Art Feb 25, 2015

IT HAPPENED

Tennis titan Venus Williams

Czech competitor Lucie Šafářová won the biggest title of her career at this year's Qatar Total Open

QATAR TOTAL OPEN 2015

Khalifa International Tennis & Squash Complex Feb 23-28, 2015

2015 runner-up and former Qatar Total Open champion Victoria Azarenka

The Polish fans were out in full force!z

Cosplay actress Riki (Riddle) Lecotey

Game Of Thrones actor and Icelandic strongman Hafþór Júlíus Björnsson was on hand to sign autographs for fans

Prolific gamer Ryan 'Prodigal Son' Hart (right) goes head-to-head with a fellow player in a virtual face-off

It was great to see some cosplay characters in Qatar!

British Council Qatar Country Director, Martin Hope, gives a keynote address at the opening press conference

H.E. Mr. Nicholas Hopton, British Ambassador to Qatar (centre) greets dignitaries and VIPs at the launch event

Even the grocery stores were going British!

Left: British Council Qatar Country Director, Martin Hope

Park House English School Director Niall Brennan (left) and British Ambassador to Qatar, H.E. Mr. Nicholas Hopton (right)

Education City March 2-7, 2015

There's no room for error in the discipline of horse-vaulting

CHI Al Shaqab Event Director, Mr. Omar Al Mannai

CHI AL SHAQAB 2015

L-R: Martin Habib, artist; Jack Saba, GM of Public Affairs Sasol Qatar; Marjo Louw, President of Sasol Qatar; Hussein Al Thawadi, COO of Qatar Museums; Martin Hope, British Council Qatar Country Director; Dr. Waseem Kotoub, Head of Arts & Creativity for The British Council

in this year's

AL GALAYEL CHAMPIONSHIP

Bu Samra Feb 4-26, 2015

Crowne Plaza Doha Resident Manager, Robbert Manussen with Thai Ambassador to Qatar, H.E. Mr. Piroon Laismit

Aramede's diverse team of chefs bring the flavours and heart of their homelands to the table

WORLD OF CURRIES LAUNCH

Aramede Restaurant, Crowne Plaza Doha – The Business Park March 10, 2015

The month-long Al Galayel event is a skills championship in the traditional Arab methods of hunting

of Ray Toh

German falconer and local expat Laura Wrede was a member of the first international team to compete

hunting competition

The Marriott Marquis team channel their inner leprechauns!

Back by popular demand the Irish band Shamrog kept toes tapping at Champions

H.E. Mr. Hasan Najn, Lebanese Ambassador to Qatar cuts the ribbon to officiate the opening

Chef Zarmig (left) welcomes guests and dignitaries

ST. PATRICK’S DAY CELEBRATIONS

AZIZA RESTAURANT OPENING

Marriott Marquis City Center Doha March 17, 2015

MEDIA BREAKFAST WITH CHEF OLIVER

Members of the media with the Doha Marriott team and new Executive Chef Oliver Weber (fourth from left)

Preparing some sincerely decadent Eggs Neptune!

H.E. Dr. Hamad Bin Abdulaziz Al-Kuwari, Minister of Information and Culture (second from left) cuts the ribbon at the opening ceremony

Artists from the region and around the globe displayed their artwork at the Wyndham

Doha Marriott March 18, 2015

AL ASMAKH INTERNATIONAL SYMPOSIUM OF ART Wyndham Grand Regency March 3, 2015

QATAR INTERNATIONAL FOOD FESTIVAL 2015 MIA Park March 24-28, 2015

There' s nothing like a little musical accompaniment when showing off your pizza-making skills

With Qatari tourism to Germany booming, visitors gather information on its various regions and attractions

Staff from all the hotel's in the city were out to showcase their best culinary talent!

German Ambassador to Qatar, H.E. Angelika Renate Storz-Chakarji greets tourism representatives

DALAL FI ALMANI ROAD SHOW

Sheraton Doha February 23, 2015

Al Gassar Resort 4424-4881

Al Mourjan Restaurants 4483-4423

Banana Island Resort Doha by Anantara 4040-5050

Bert’s Cafe` 4495-3876

Biella 4467-7731

Crowne Plaza The Business Park 4 408-7777

Doha Marriott Hotel 4429-8888

Four Seasons 4494-8888

Grand Heritage Doha Hotel and Spa 4445 5555

The Grand Hyatt 4448-1234

Holiday Villa 4408-4888

Hilton Doha 4423-3333

InterContinental 4484-4444

InterContinental Doha The City 4015-8888

Johnny Rockets Al Emadi Complex 4455 2792 Hyatt Plaza 4460 4210

Kempinski Residences & Suites 4405-3333

La Cigale 4428 8888

Marriott Marquis City Center Doha 4419-5000

Marsa Malaz Kempinski 4035-5555

Mövenpick Hotel 4429-1111

Mövenpick Tower & Suites 4496-66 00

Nando’s Delivery Hotline 4436-0606

Oryx Rotana 4402-3333

Radisson Blu 4428-1555

Red Velvet 4408 0700

Sharq Village & Spa 4425-6666

Sealine Beach Resort 4476-5299

Sheraton Doha 4485-4444

St. Regis Doha 4446-0000

The Diplomatic Club 4484-7444

The Ritz-Carlton 4484-8000

The Torch Doha 4446-5600

W Doha Hotel & Residences 4453-50 00

Wyndham Grand Regency 4434-3333

Zubarah Boutique Hotel 4447-0000

Amaoras RelaxationSpa 4408-4085

Angsana Spa 4434-3152

Bay View 26, Wellness Centre 4496-6410

Bio-Bil Health, Beauty & Spa

Ladies 4493-4433 Men’s 4483-0989

Bliss 4453-5555

Bottega Verde 4483-4535

Coiffeur Française 4468-9211

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

Ahmed Hassan Bilal 4442-8877 Trad. & Cont. Co. www.ahbqatar.com

Design 4456-8716

RESTAURANTS

Chowking Salwa Road 4437-1212

Chowking Al Saad St. 4431-4411

Chowking Al Khor 4411-8816/ 4411-8817

Chowking Mamoura 4486-6077

Chowking Holiday Villa 4411-5225/335

Air India 4441-8423

Egypt Air 4435-2901

Emirates 4438-4477

Etihad Airways 4436-6657

Gulf Air 4499-8000

Qatar Airways 4449-6666

Alpha Tours 4434-4496

Arabian Adventures 4436-1461

World Wide Destination 4467-1200

Fox Transport 4462-2777

Gulf Adventures 4422-1888

Qatar Airways Holidays 4449-6969

Qatar International Adventures 4455-3954

Qatar International Tours 4455-1141

Qatar Tourism & Exhibitions Authority 4499-7499

Regency Travel & Tour 4434-4444

Victoria Car Rental 4466-6635

Khalifa International Tennis and Squash Complex 4440 9666

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