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THE HEIGHT OF LUXURY
IN THE HEART OF SOUQ WAQIF Discover the height of luxury in the heart of culture at Souq Waqif Boutique Hotels, and enjoy personal service at its best. Nestled between the alleyways of old are ancient doors that lead into a new world in boutique hotels. A unique combination of modernity and history that brings together the height of international design and the charm of authentic Qatari hospitality. Visit us at one of Souq Waqif Boutique Hotels and experience the unforgettable.
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For more information please call us at +974 4433 6666 or email us at: reservations@swbh.com
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CMY
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OUT om K C E CH appening.c
Navigating National Day
atarh information! www.q test for the
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CONTENTS
December EVERY ISSUE 9 EDITOR-IN-CHIEF LETTER QH’s editor-in-chief tells you what’s happening this month.
10 QH SPEAKS The best of our monthly social media
13 EVENTS CALENDAR
Pullout monthly events calendar
with happening events in Doha
124 IT HAPPENED
19 TOP PICKS 21 Wild For Wahm Enjoy a free BBQ voucher for Wahm
45 TOP PICKS 46 Cultural Crossover
22 Bringing Down The House
48 Celebrate With Katara Enjoy the festive season with a dose
Need-to-know phone numbers
DJ Danny Rampling is back in Doha for one iconic night at Rocca
Plan your New Year’s in advance with our round-up of the best celebrations in town
happening events in Doha
‘Tea With Nefertiti’ and ‘Forever Now’ light up Mathaf
on us!
24 Party Hoppin’ Happenings
QH’s photo gallery of the latest
132 PHONE DIRECTORY
ARTS & CULTURE
ENTERTAINMENT
of culture at Katara
50 ARTS AND CULTURE LISTINGS Find out everything that’s going
on this month
34 ENTERTAINMENT LISTINGS Find out everything that’s going on this month
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COMMUNITY
‘Tea With Nefertiti’ Comes To Mathaf
53 TOP PICKS 54 Navigating National Day Celebrating Qatar from a local perspective
57 I Love Qatar
Why women are the future of the nation
60 COMMUNITY LISTINGS Find out everything that’s going on this month
61 TOP PICKS KIDS CLUB Fun adventures with the kids 62 Beating The Doha Daze Calling all stay-at-home parents!
A guide to socializing in Doha
64 The Family Circle Why having dinner as a family is so important
66 KIDS CLUB LISTINGS Ideas to do with the kids
FOOD & DINING 69 TOP PICKS 70 Lush Brunch
We review the Friday Jazz Brunch at the Oryx Rotana
72 Word Of Mouth One QH reader tests drives Opal by
Gordon Ramsay at the St. Regis
74 Top 10 Holiday Feasts Our round-up of festive feasts to
SPORTS 95 TOP PICKS 96 Tennis Titans The megastars of tennis touch
down for the Qatar ExxonMobil Open 2013
100 SPORT LISTINGS Find out everything that’s going on
this month
enjoy this holiday season
78 Christmas And New Year’s Listings
Everything a holiday foodie could wish for this December
86 FOOD AND DINING LISTINGS Find out everything that’s going on this month FOLLOW US ON TWITTER @qatarhappening
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QH SENSATIONS 103 QH Recommends
Our fave little luxuries of the month
106 Glowing For Guinot
The French luxury facial brand has arrived at Glow American Salon
110 REASONS TO FLY Our pick of top destinations 114 Holly Jolly London Wind your way through the city’s
festive Borough Market
118 VIRGIN RECOMMENDS
The best monthly entertainment picks from the Megastore
120 SPOTLIGHT ON MOVIES This month's top five films 122 THE DISH ON QATAR Fun facts about National Day LIKE US ON FACEBOOK www.facebook.com/qatarhappening
For customer service and subscription questions, such as renewals, billing and account status, email info@qatarhappening.com 11/26/12 3:43 PM
FROM THE DESK OF THE EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Dear friends, December is a special month for Qatar and we are proud to bring you our special holiday issue chock full of festive events and happenings. With Qatar National Day on the horizon this December 18, we wanted to take the time to show our readers the meaning of this important day. We must start by acknowledging the tireless efforts of His Highness, the Emir of Qatar, Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, His Highness, the Heir Apparent, Sheikh Tamim Bin Hamad Al-Thani and Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser for their dedication in raising our great nation up to the world stage. Through their vision for education, peace, health-care and diplomacy we as Qataris are proud to call them our leaders and may we all strive to uphold the national vision set forth by them. In our Community section we bring you an inside look at an authentic National Day experience and a rundown of Corniche events. We are proud of the vision that Qatar has for its nation and its people and we hope to see you out there on the big day, expats and locals alike, to share in the celebrations. The holiday season is also upon us and we’ve rounded up a selection of the best festive New Year’s events in Entertainment and Nightlife and the most scrumptious holiday feasts, brunches and family dinners in Food and Dining. Get all the info on timings, prices, membership requirements and reservations and pick your favourite spot in Doha during December so you can plan ahead to share in the fun. Finally, with National Day and the festive season bringing families closer together, we are proud to introduce the first feature articles to our Kids Club section this month. We highlight how eating dinner as a family strengthens bonds and is beneficial to the well-being of the family unit and also some of the best spots for stay-at-home parents to meet new people and develop social circles here in Doha. We hope you enjoy all we have to offer in our pages this month. As this year draws to a close we have to reflect on how spectacular it’s been – packed with events, concerts, festivals and cultural activities, Qatar continues to grow and prosper. We at Qatar Happening look forward to growing along with it, bringing you the best, up-to-date information, timely, engaging articles and being your constant companion. Here’s to a wonderful start to the New Year with many good things to come in 2013. Thank you for making us a part of your lives.
Publisher: The Art of Business Chairman: Ahmed Hassan Bilal Editor-in-Chief: Nasser Ahmed Hassan Bilal Executive Editorial Director: Moona Masri-Whitice Editor: Ashlee Starratt Editorial Coordinator: Marlynne Mallari-Dela Pena Senior Designer: Soné Moriarty Brand Manager: Zahi Srour Sales and Marketing Manager: Deliah Furcoi Sales and Communications Manager: Jorge Granda Marketing Coordinator: Chet Tibayan Photographer: Jessie Palanca Finalizer/Production Manager: Srimani Welagedara New Media Manager: Susanna Wolfe Web Coordinator: Imran Khan Distribution & Accounts: Lanie Fillo-Pana Contributors: Sarah Al-Motairi, Jacqueline Bodnar, Khalifa Saleh Haroon, John Hunt, Gerald Tan, Steven Keith Tart Have Your Say: Feedback and comments are always welcome. Please forward letters to the editor: Email: editor@qatarhappening.com info@qatarhappening.com marketing@qatarhappening.com Call Details: Inquiries: Marketing: Fax:
+974 4427 8416 +974 5556 5046 +974 4427 8415
Postal Address: P.O. Box 7848 , Doha, Qatar
QATAR HAPPENING (QH) is published 11 times a year by The Art of Business, Doha, Qatar, an associate of Ahmed Hassan Bilal Group. The information contained in QATAR HAPPENING (QH) is correct at the time of printing. Details may change at any time without liability on the part of The Art of Business. Readers are advised to confirm details with the event organizers. All rights reserved 2011, The Art of Business. Reproduction in part or in full is strictly prohibited. QATAR HAPPENING (QH) assumes no responsibility for content of advertisements. QATAR HAPPENING (QH) retails for QR 8. Bulk subscriptions are available for QR 5 each, for orders over 50.
Nasser Ahmed Hassan Bilal Editor-in-Chief
2012
ON THE COVER
National Day fireworks light up the sky above the Corniche. Photo credit: Jessie Palanca
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SPEAKS
We ask, you answer. The best of the best from our social media top picks this month , plus our Editor’s Corner. Here’s what you’re saying!
EDITOR’S CORNER This month we’re mixing it up with a very special Editor’s Corner. I’m giving the floor to the host of this year’s Qatar Choice Awards, Steven Keith Tart. Coming to Doha all the way from London just for the Awards, Steven shares with us his impressions of that night as he makes his first trip to the Middle East.
,,
See you next month, Ashlee
You better have
ARDS QATAR CHOICE AW
ating above me, s seem to be congreg “Ominous grey cloud head. It must mean themselves onto my threatening to empty desert nation of on after five days in the that I’m back in Lond ems to be written se e’ ed Daily Sunshin nte ara ‘Gu ere wh , Qatar rd for ‘rain’ (matr) whereas the Arabic wo into the constitution, re for centuries. hasn’t been used the ards’ and it was a nual ‘Qatar Choice Aw an the st ho to t ou s I wa from the hospitality er a wealth of talent blast! Bringing togeth them with wellustry and presenting and entertainment ind t gave me a taste of not only great fun, bu earned rewards was Doha. I met owners, r, tar and in particula Qa in er off on is at wh genuinely moved promoters who were managers, chefs and know that a lot of all their hard work. I by being awarded for I wanted to say a e into the event and people put a lot of tim Mr. Ahmed Hassan ma AHB Group Chair n to u yo nk tha r ula rtic pa ice, IFPQatar’s Sarah ’s Moona Masri-Whit Bilal, Qatar Happening m Premium Projects d Chris Van Kamp fro Mroueh and Mimi an ccess. to make the night a su who worked tirelessly
THE DAY AFTER THE NIGHT BEFORE I stayed at The Ritz-Carlton and the morning after the show, as I walked the corridor, I saw a mem ber of staff carrying one of the awards that the hotel had won. I asked whether he had attended the awards and he told me that he had not, but that on receiving the award that morning, he had crie d with joy and felt so proud of his team. It made me realize that when hard work is rewarded, it has the power to affect people positively. I feel like this is the beginning of a great relationship between myself and Qatar. There are exciting opportunities and this is a time of great change for the country as you approach the Wor ld Cup in 2022. If you’ll have me, I intend to be there every step of the way.”
a four-wheel drive
!
Dune-bashing: the national past-time!
LIKE US ON FACEBOOK www.facebook.com/qatarhappening
IN YOUR FACE It’s National Day this December 18 and we asked our Facebook followers what the holiday represented to them. Here’s a few of the awesome responses we got! “My favourite thing about National Day is the car showdown!” – Habeeb Mohammed Abu-Futtaim “My favourite thing about Qatar: it brings the world to you and regardless of how advanced and modernized the country is, the Qataris are proud of their culture and their faith. This is my favourite thing about Qatar and one of the main reasons I am proud to call it my home away from home.” – Noor Dajani AbuKishk Also, we asked you to send us your photos of the Qatari desert and here are two great shots above sent to us to us by reader Santosh of some four-wheeling, dune-bashing fun!
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QH SPEAKS
QH TEAM OUT & ABOUT
On November 2 we joined the crowds on the Corniche for the annual Walk for Life breast cancer rally with Think Pink Qatar! FOLLOW US ON TWITTER @qatarhappening
TWEETS OF THE MONTH
@polliblog The @QatarHappening team scrubbed up well last night at the #QatarChoice Awards! Centre: South African Ambassador, H.E. Dr. Sa ad Cachalia Photo Credits: Sanjaya Gihan Munindradasa
@alexklim Watch the Qatar Choice Awards 2012 videoclip – youtu.be/LwUSD7tXjs. @ QatarHappening @iloveqatar boys you make our life special.
@Javaadpp Russian Ballet was amazing. The dancers are so talented. They promise to return! Can’t wait!! A good turnout of people
bolstered the spirit of the
cause
@Gladoodles Road trip to the North of Qatar, Hello Al Zubarah Fort!
@Zakiadian A heavy sand storm coming #gharaffa. Is there a dust storm in your area? Please share.
@kattie05
The younger gene
ration took part to
There’s a huge mix of people in Qatar. Qatar is growing and it’s nice to have events for all ppl :)
o!
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ENTERTAINMENT TOP PICKS AND NIGHTLIFE THIS MONTH'S
DJ Juicy M DJ Santiago Vitorelli
GRAND HYATT DOHA
Fridays At Rocca Fridays: Rocca. Transformed into a boutique club with added lighting, up-graded sound and resident DJ Santiago Vittorelli, joined by guest DJs Amy B, Laura O’Shea, Carl R and Veronica C on rotation. Two for one drinks from 8:00 p.m. till 10:00 p.m. Ladies free entry all night and first drink free. 8:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. For more information call 4448-1272.
KEMPINSKI RESIDENCES & SUITES DOHA
Half Note Wednesdays: The Lounge. Funky saxophone sounds, upbeat mixes from the DJ and a unique ambiance. 7:00 p.m. till 12:00 a.m. For more information call 4405-3325.
OUT om K C E H .c C ppening
atarha tion! www.qthe latest informa for
RADISSON BLU HOTEL DOHA
School Disco Fri 28: Qube. Dress up in that old school tie and blazer and come and enjoy a night reminiscent of the last school disco you ever attended. Lots of classics from the 70’s, 80’s and 90’s to keep the dance-floor filled all night long. For more information call 4428-1555.
W DOHA
DJ Juicy M Thurs 6: Crystal. DJ Juicy M is one of the most successful DJs in the world, in her profile are Asian tours with A-list artists like the Backstreet Boys, Jay Sean and Willow Smith and gigs in the best clubs in more than 30 countries all over the world. For more information call 4453-5135.
THE ST. REGIS DOHA
Humouristic Evening With Comedian Nemr Abou Nassar Thurs 13: Grand Ballroom. Enjoy an evening of laughter as stand-up comedian Nemr Abou Nassar takes the stage. QR 345 including a 3-course meal and the performance; QR 495 for VIP seating including 3-course meal and meet and greet with the artist. 8:00 p.m. For more information call 4446-0105. 19
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SPOTLIGHT ON ENTERTAINMENT & NIGHTLIFE
Wild For Wahm By Jorge Granda
S
ince Wahm opened a few years back, the lounge has become the hotspot for Doha’s glitterati to mix and mingle. The design and ambiance is distinctive, cosmopolitan and one-of-a-kind. Guests can retreat to one of Wahm’s fabulous cabanas by the pool or to the exotic cushion-filled indoor banquettes while savouring delicious coctails and a selection of Mediterranean mezze. A trend-setting hub where every night of the week you can kick back and enjoy, Wham represents what the W Doha Hotel & Residences is all about, a lifestyle and sophisticated hotel that applies a touch of uniqueness and design philosophy to everything they do. This December let Wahm hypnotize and entertain you with its electrifying offers and nights.
SECRET SANTA ON THE WET DECK BY WAHM December 24, 2012 DJ Bruno Rocharte will be spinning the decks. Festive BBQ from 6:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m., QR 120 per person. Buy a gift for QR 100, place it under the Christmas Tree and get one in return. (Gifts will be opened at 10:00 p.m.) Best festive outfit gets a gift from Wahm.
Wahm at the W Doha is full of surprises for the festive season. QH dives into what’s on offer at the famous poolside lounge. Don’t forget to clip out the free voucher too! WHITE PARTY
DJ Kinky D & DJ Bruno Rocharte December 25, 2012 Enjoy Xmas on the Wet Deck by Wahm with good tunes and a BBQ from 8:00 p.m. – 11:00 p.m., QR 120 per person. Come dressed in white and enjoy a sip from them on the house from 10:00 p.m. – 2:00 a.m.
NYE BY WAHM
December 31, 2012 Join DJ Bruno Rocharte, DJ Kinky D and a percussionist for a great night of live entertainment. Let’s all ring in the New Year at the Wet Deck or in one of the interior cabanas. Bookings start from the December 1, QR 150 entry ticket per person. For more information call 4453-5323 or 3025-5247.
2 for 1 BBQ at wet Saturday duty free SeSSionS at wet Enjoy a 2 for 1 bbq by the pool side by presenting this voucher.
This offer is only valid during the month of December.
for reservations call 4453 5135
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SPOTLIGHT ON ENTERTAINMENT & NIGHTLIFE
Bringing Down The House By Ashlee Starratt
The godfather of house music, DJ Danny Rampling is back in Doha this month for one exclusive night at Coco Latté’s Atmosphere 2 party in Rocca at the Grand Hyatt on December 14. QH caught up with the music legend to take a look at his legacy. QH: Take us back to your house music roots. You’d been moving around the London scene for a while but how did your outlook and your craft change when you first went to Ibiza? DR: Before going to Ibiza on the famous trip with Paul Oakenfold, Nicky and Johnny, my DJ career hadn’t really begun as such. I spent years learning my craft and working my way up and it was difficult as there were not many clubs which embraced new talent. Back then it was all about who you knew and the doors were firmly closed to newcomers. However, I kept pushing on, believing and knowing that one day my time would come. I just didn’t know how, when or where until I went to Ibiza and heard Alfredo, the DJ in Amnesia - that was an epiphany moment that unlocked the magic for me. We came home and created our own respected clubs, mine being Shoom. We’re celebrating 25 years of Shoom on Dec 8 and 9 in London. The Saturday, Dec 8 party pre-sold out 1,500 tickets in a matter of hours so we added an extra date. 22 QH December 2012.indd 22
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SPOTLIGHT ON ENTERTAINMENT & NIGHTLIFE QH: Would you say you’re more of a traditionalist in your sound and the technology that you use to DJ, or are you constantly evolving with the element? DR: Technology has revolutionized and transformed music production and the role of the DJ. It’s there to be embraced and is all about progress. I have used Traktor for the past two years and feel, personally, it’s important to move forward in life with one’s craft. Of course I still love vinyl although it’s not practical to travel the international circuit with records!
DR: The love and passion for music inspired me and knowing what I wanted to do with my life, that being a career in music. When I started my career DJs did not earn the money they do now. In the present a DJ can create a couple of cool tracks and within months be revered and working the international scene making great money and traveling the world.
QH: What are your thoughts on the new generation of DJ? (David Guetta, Tiesto, Calvin Harris, etc.)
QH: How would you describe the impact your music and that of your colleagues had on the scene in Britain at the height of the movement?
QH: How is the scene in Doha different from other places, or is it?
DR: The impact we made created a movement and a shift in youth culture. Today the scene is global and at last, 25 years later, has exploded in the U.S.A. with huge electronic dance music festivals and American radio support. It’s a very exciting time for dance music.
QH: What has been one of your most memorable career highlights? DR: Pioneering the original London dance music scene with my night-club Shoom, and going from pirate radio to a prime-time BBC Radio One show for seven years.
QH: Where’s your favourite club back home to go back and spin?
QH: You’re considered one of the godfathers of the early DJ house scene. What inspired the groundbreakers like you? What were you listening to and playing around with in the early days?
DR: Cable London, East Block, Deelooded in Vauxhall, Dalston Superstore and any Coco Latté parties Nicholas puts on of course!
DR: David Guetta has transformed the role of the DJ to stadiums along with Tiesto and others. Guetta has been quoted that when he came to Shoom, I inspired him greatly to become a superstar DJ.
DR: The scene is different in many places dependent upon different cultures. At the end of the day it’s about the love of music, having a party and celebrating life through the spirit of electronic music and dance. QH: Where do you see yourself ten years from now? DR: On a space flight to the moon hopefully, and still doing what I do best - being creative, working with music and hospitalit and sharing good times with people. Danny Rampling is DJ’ing at Coco Latté presents ATMOSPHERE 2 at 8pm on Friday December 14 at Rocca, Poolside at Grand Hyatt Doha, West Bay Lagoon. Tickets from www.virginmegastore.me.
ABOUT COCO LATTÉ’S ‘ATMOSPHERE 2’ WITH DJ DANNY RAMPLING
g
DJ Danny Ramplin
Location: Rocca, Poolside at Grand Hyatt Doha Timings: Doors open at 8:00 p.m. Tickets: QR 100 for queue jump tickets QR 150 for VIP, includes fast track entry, one free drink, reserved seating and table service Purchase online at www.virginmegastore.me Smoking: Yes Licensed: Yes Contact Info: 7021-8096 or victor.marcato@hyatt.com.
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SPOTLIGHT ON ENTERTAINMENT & NIGHTLIFE
Party-Hoppin ’ Happenings
Jorge Granda
Not flying home for the holidays? No worries. Clear your Christmas and New Year’s Eve calendar and celebrate two of the most sensational nights of the year in some of the finest hotels in Doha. QH’s Jorge Granda delivers a list of the hottest parties to say goodbye to 2012 and welcome 2013 with a bang!
THE ST. REGIS Christmas Eve Gala Dinner
ORYX ROTANA DOHA Countdown to Christmas Getting into the Christmas spirit will be easy at the Jazz Club, which hosts a stylish Christmas Eve soirée. Enjoy the soulful sounds of jazz in an elegant bar sparkling with festive decoration and oozing Christmas charm. Choose from a selection of tempting festive treats on the menu and toast the occasion with a glass of bubbly or a cocktail. There are also special ‘holiday’ prices on bottles of Champagne and spirits – the perfect gift for a loved one. Date: Monday, December 24 Where: Jazz Club at the Oryx Rotana Doha For reservations: 4402-3333
The Jazz club won’t be open but the Sherman Irby Quintet will be playing in the lobby for a lavish Christmas Eve Gala Dinner. The grandest lobby at the finest address in Qatar transforms into an elegant Christmas experience featuring ‘A Taste of The St. Regis Doha’. Enjoy world-class Jazz music from Jazz at Lincoln Center Doha while savouring a five-course festive menu prepared by the St. Regis culinary team. Santa will also surprise the younger guests with gifts at The St. Regis Doha Pastry Kitchen. Date: Monday, December 24 Where: St. Regis lobby Time: 7:04 p.m. to midnight Price: QR 390 including soft drinks, QR 490 including bubbly and vino. Children enjoy a 50% discount and kids below six eat for free (and will be able to prepare their own dessert in the Pastry Kitchen) For reservations: 4446-0105 or diningreservations.doha@stregis.com
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SPOTLIGHT ON ENTERTAINMENT & NIGHTLIFE KEMPINSKI RESIDENCES & SUITES Christmas Eve Gala Dinner in the Sky Villa
W DOHA Festive Christmas Party With a surprise exclusive DJ! Intrigued? Come and join the city’s most exquisite nightclub and find out more on Christmas day. Date: Monday, December 25 Where: Crystal Time: 11:00 p.m. until late For reservation: 4453 5135 Membership required
ST. REGIS New Year’s Eve at Jazz at Lincoln Center Doha The Jazz Club will feature a true evening of entertainment including a five-course Jazz menu and live performances by the Sherman Irby Quintet. Start the evening with a five-course Jazz-inspired menu, then welcome the New Year and dance the night away to the sound of live Jazz music with post-bop alto saxophonist Sherman Irby leading the Quintet’s entertaining performances. Date: Monday, December 31 Where: Jazz at Lincoln Center Doha at the St. Regis Time: 7:00 p.m. to 2:13 a.m. Price: QR 1006 per person, QR 2012 for two including a five-course Jazz menu and two glasses of bubbly. For reservations: 4446-0105 or diningreservations.doha@stregis.com St Regis will also host a Gala Dinner Party in the ballroom the 31st featuring superstar Nawal Zoghbi
The unique Sky Villa dresses up with festive decorations and takes you on a culinary journey, inspired by the European pedigree of Kempinski. Chefs have prepared a gourmand four-course menu for a memorable experience along with Christmas sounds from a live entertainment band. Date: Monday, December 24 Where: Kempinski Residences & Suites, Sky Villa Time: 8:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. Price: QR 325 with soft beverages QR 495 with house vino and soft beverages For reservation: 4405-3325
W DOHA NYE by Wahm Join DJ Kinky D and a famous percussionist for a great night of live entertainment. Let’s all ring in the new at the wet deck or in one of their fabulous interior cabanas. Date: Monday, December 31 Where: Wahm at W Doha Entrance fee: QR 150 For reservations: 4453-5323 or 3025-5247 Bookings Start from the December 1, 2012
LA CIGALE New Year’s Eve The most famous nightclub in town will host a breathtaking and biggest New Year party in town with an International DJ and Doha’s favourite, DJ Roger Choueiry. Date: Monday, December 31 Where: Club 7 at La Cigale Hotel Price: QR 300 including canapés. For reservations: 4428-8665 or 5518-8008 (membership required)
GRAND HYATT Under The Stars @ Rocca Coco Latté presents a sophisticated evening of scrumptious food, uplifting music, delicious cocktails and attentive service, ‘Under The Stars at Rocca’, to bring in the new year in style. With special guest DJ Passant Refaat, plus Rocca resident DJ Santiago Vittorelli. Date: Monday, December 31 Where: Rocca at the Grand Hyatt Time: 8.30 p.m. –2:00 a.m. Price: QR 600 per person, includes as much as you can eat ‘til midnight, unlimited vino, beverages and cocktails, bubbly at midnight, breakfast and coffee at the end and a limited edition Coco Latté CD to take home. For reservations: 7021-8096 or email victor.marcato@hyatt.com
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SPOTLIGHT ON ENTERTAINMENT & NIGHTLIFE
KEMPINSKI RESIDENCES & SUITES Shaken, Not Stirred, New Year’s Eve
INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA THE CITY Hive The lounge will extend to the bridge area with a DJ on the mezzanine level overlooking the main hotel lobby. There will be a countdown to midnight with a festive balloon drop over the lobby. Guests from Prime and The Square will also move to the bridge for the countdown and balloon drop. Date: Monday, December 31 Where: Hive at Intercontinental Doha the City
INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA New Year’s Eve This year, the InterContinental Doha will take you to an exciting journey around the world. Join them on New Year’s Eve and experience an evening of entertainment and fun to welcome 2013. Explore the wonders of amazing Mexico at Paloma and get wild ‘til the early hours of the morning with an exquisite 3-course set menu at QR 395.00 per person with a special Mojito and rock the night away with the Smart Casuals Band followed by DJ Shadi. Date: Monday, December 31 Where: Paloma at the Intercontinental Doha Time: Entrance only to the party after 11:00 p.m. Price: QR 150 for men, QR 50 for ladies For reservations: 4484-4444
Countdown in James Bond-style. Get spoiled with a specially conceived, designed and prepared five-course gala menu with the finest ingredients and the festive touches of the culinary team of Aroma. Guests will be offered a glass of bubbly upon arrival. After dinner get ready for the countdown in The Lounge. Its inimitable setting, amber-lit bar, DJ and trumpet player promise a remarkable evening bringing you to the New Year in flair. Open bar consumption is included in the price. Date: Monday, December 31 Where: Kempinski Residences & Suites, Doha Time: 8:00 p.m. to 2:00 a.m. Price: QR 1,150 with 5-course menu in Aroma, welcome bubbly and entrance with open bar consumption in The Lounge QR 850 with entrance, welcome bubbly and open bar consumption in The Lounge. For reservations: 4405-3325
ORYX ROTANA All That Jazz (New Year’s Eve at the Jazz Club) Have an unforgettable New Year’s Eve at the Jazz Club and ring in the New Year in style with an exclusive dinner. This VIP experience includes a delectable four-course plated dinner served from a set menu. Count down to 2013 in an intimate, stylish setting – with ice carvings and smoke machines adding to the ambiance – and dance the night away to live jazz performances. Date: Monday, December 31 Where: Jazz Club at the Oryx Rotana Prize: QR 600 per person, with special offers on bubbly and drinks packages all night. For reservations: 4402-3333
RADISSON BLU DOHA ‘Yeah Baby, Yeah’ Come and enjoy the last night of 2012 as the Qube entertains you from 8:00 p.m. through the big countdown to midnight until the early hours of the morning! Date: Monday, December 31 Where: Qube, Radisson Blu Doha Time: Starts at 8:00 p.m. Dress Code: Retro 60’s and 70’s flares are welcome Price: QR100, includes one welcome drink. VIP and group packages also available. For reservations: 4428-1428 Over 21’s, members only. No membership sign-ups on the night. Qube has a strict no re-entry policy after 12 midnight on this date.
MÖVENPICK HOTEL DOHA 3, 2, 1 Happy New Year! Ring in the New Year with an extravagant affair at Seasons restaurant, spoil yourself with a sumptuous dinner buffet and live entertainment and get ready for a night to remember. Date: Monday, December 31 Where: Seasons Restaurant Price: QR 280 per person including free entrance to Jazz Up bar for the countdown to 2013. For reservations: 4429-1111
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SPOTLIGHT ON ENTERTAINMENT & NIGHTLIFE
MORE TO CELEBRATE Why stop the party at Christmas and New Year’s? Here’s more to keep you entertained and amused throughout December. RENAISSANCE DOHA CITY CENTER Champions Sports Bar Hottest Nights You can watch your favourite sporting events at Champions this December: Sat, December 1: Rugby Autumn International: England vs. New Zealand Tues, Dec 4 & Wed, Dec 5: Champions League – find out which teams make it to the final 16. There’s sure to be a surprise or two. Matches kick off at 10:45 p.m. Sun, Dec 9: English Premiership League, Man U vs. Man City Mon, Dec 31: Qatar Mens Tennis Open. See Federer, Murray, Nadal and Djokovic in action at the Kalifa Tennis Center
THE RITZ-CARLTON DOHA Admiral’s Upper Deck The Upper Deck at Admiral’s strikes back with new beats and themed nights to keep you dancing all night, all week from Monday to Saturday! Ladies shoe-up for the red carpet with special attention with their own Ladies Nights on Thursdays. Where: Admiral’s Club at The Ritz-Carlton Doha Dress Code: Casual Membership: ID and membership from QR 50 For reservations: 4484-8663 or dilip.kumar@ritzcarlton.com
INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA THE CITY Lobby Lounge The festive period will start on December 13 with a Christmas tree lighting ceremony in the evening. Christmas carols will also take place on a couple of days during the season by hotel colleagues. A gingerbread house will be built and Christmas sweets and chocolates will be on display. A special selection of Christmas desserts and coffee will be available for QR 50. Residents and outside guests will also be able to place orders for cooked turkeys to take away. Date: Tuesday, December 13 Where: Intercontinental Doha the City
THE ADMIRAL’S CLUB MARINA NIGHTS: Every Wednesday 9:00 p.m. - 2:00 a.m.
The Club Night with DJ Leo
Every Thursday Ladies Night 9:00 p.m. - 2:00 a.m. with DJ Sandy
Ladies get 2 complimentary drinks upon entrance before 12:00 a.m. Ladies get 3 complimentary drinks upon entrance before 12:00 a.m. and 1 complimentary drink upon entrance after 12:00 a.m.
R&B HIP-HOP Ladies get 2 Every Fridays 9:00 p.m. - 2:00 a.m. Night with DJ complimentary drinks Aloysius upon entrance before 12:00 a.m. Retro and Every Saturday 9:00 p.m. - 2:00 a.m. Commercial (Old school vs. New school)
Ladies get 2 complimentary drinks upon entrance before 12:00 a.m.
Live Bands Every Monday 8:00 p.m. - 2:00 a.m.
Live bands will perform at Admiral’s upper floor every Monday and Tuesday
Live Bands Every Tuesday 8:00 p.m. - 2:00 a.m.
Live bands will perform at Admiral’s upper floor every Monday and Tuesday
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SPECIAL PROMOTION
Doha Welcomes The Crowne Plaza
The Crowne Plaza Doha-The Business Park promises a great variety of restaurants and entertainment. The hotel officially opened for business last month and here’s a glimpse of what you can find in the newest addition to Doha’s dining and nightlife scene.
RODIZIO
In this exotic Brazilian churrascaria, skewers of meat are prepared on live open flame grills and served to guests who can choose how much or how little they would like. An extensive selection of vino is also available to complement the flavours of the meat and poultry, making Rodizio an impressive venue to host a celebration or social gathering. Dress Code: Smart casual Price: All you can eat starting at QR 265 Serves: Dinner Opening hours: Daily 5:00 p.m. till 12:00 a.m. Reservations and Information: 4408-7777
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SPECIAL PROMOTION
MISTURADO
A Brazilian Lounge Bar, Misturado is set to become a local favourite with its selection of fine beverages and snacks inspired by the flavours of beautiful Brazil. Opening hours: Daily 5:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. Happy Hours: Daily from 5:00 p.m. till 8:00 p.m. Dress Code: Smart casual Reservations: 4408-7777
ARAMEDE RESTAURANT
An all-day dining restaurant that offers Mediterranean cuisine. Rising six floors high, Aramede is a bright and serene space decorated with warm pastel colours. Serving modern Middle Eastern continental and European dishes, it also features live cooking stations as well as a wide range of options for the international traveler. Dress Code: Smart casual Serves: Breakfast, lunch and dinner Opening hours: Daily from 6:00 a.m. till 12:00 p.m. Reservations: 4408-7777
SAVOR
This cafĂŠ lounge serves lights meals during the day and transforms in the evening into a sophisticated lounge offering a variety of beverages and cheeses. Opening hours: Daily 7:00 a.m. till 12:00 a.m. Dress Code: Smart casual Reservations: 4408-7777
LIQUIDITY
Located on the rooftop, Liquidity offers innovative poolside cuisine and beverages and is a lively venue for evening cocktail events. Opening hours: Daily 8:00 a.m. till 2:00 a.m. Happy Hours: Daily from 5:00 p.m. till 8:00 p.m. Dress Code: Smart casual Reservations: 4408 -7777
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SPECIAL PROMOTION
Winter wonderland in Kempinski: Festive Season activities in December
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elcome to the festive celebrations at Kempinski Residences & Suites, Doha. Delight in the joyful decorations in the lobby, the Sky Villa, Aroma and Gourmet House and treat yourself to the special events and packages remarkably prepared for this exciting time of the year. A wonderful, traditional Christmas tree with shiny red balls in the lobby, a delightful gingerbread village at Gourmet House, a visit from Santa to the Sky Villa and fabulous Christmas and New Year’s Eve packages are only some of the things that await you this festive season at Kempinski. On December 7, the festive season officially launches with the lighting of the Christmas tree in the lobby. Christmas sounds, hot chocolate and traditional cookies will be served all around the tree as shimmering lights and plush red balls give off the true essence of Christmas. Everybody is welcome to light the tree at 6:00 p.m. with the General Manager and open the festive activities.
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SPECIAL PROMOTION
Enjoy an afternoon tea with Santa in the Sky Villa, overlooking Doha from the highest point of the tower. While parents treat themselves to a delectable afternoon tea buffet, children can talk and take pictures with Santa while the Chief Baker will help them decorate their own gingerbread cookies. Go down to the ground floor and get captivated by the mesmerizing aroma of freshly baked Christmas goodies while having a look around the gingerbread village in the middle of Gourmet House! There you can also find an order form for the Christmas turkey in a box, part of a specially prepared traditional dinner cooked to perfection for a stress-free celebration at home. The Sky Villa, on the 61st floor of Kempinski, is festively decorated and
ready to take you on a culinary journey at Christmas Eve Dinner or the Christmas Brunch buffet. Inspired by the European heritage of Kempinski, the Chefs have prepared a gourmand menu for the evening and a luscious brunch buffet for Christmas Day, offering a memorable experience for you and your family. Want to know more about the secret recipes of the Executive Chef? Join his festive cooking classes in the kitchen of the Sky Villa and take home some of his personal techniques, sure to impress your guests next time you cook dinner. This New Year’s Eve, The Lounge & Aroma invite you for a James Bondstyle countdown. Dress to impress and join a specially conceived and designed five-course menu offered in Aroma and
combining the finest ingredients with the festive touches of the talented culinary team. After dinner a DJ and trumpet player in The Lounge take the lead, making sure that you start the New Year in style. Take your pick between the ‘Diamonds Are Forever’ or the ‘Licence To Kill’ packages and enjoy what is sure to be a remarkable evening.
To make reservations or find more information on the festive season activities, please visit the special section on the website, follow Kempinski’s Facebook page, send an email to restaurants. doha@kempinski.com or call +974 4405-3325.
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ENTERTAINMENT & NIGHTLIFE LISTINGS
RECOMMENDS
DOHA JAZZ Live Performances
Thursdays: Di Capri. All’Italiana live jazz at La Cigale. Fridays: Market by JeanGeorges. 12:00 p.m. -- 4:00 p.m., W Doha. Fridays: Spice Market. Guy Turner Band brings the best in blues jazz and rock. 12:00 p.m. -- 4:00 p.m. W Doha. Fri 7-28: Jazz Up. Mövenpick Hotel Doha presents the best in jazz from 8:00 p.m. -- 12:00 a.m. Featuring the Mary Rambau Band, Chris Coull Quartet, Keith Wilson and Mike Pike and the Big Wham Jam Band.
GRAND HYATT DOHA Disney Brunch RITZ-CARLTON DOHA Happy Hours
Saturdays–Wednesdays: Habanos. Enjoy two drinks for the price of one. 6:00 p.m. till 8:00 p.m. and at Admiral’s Club, 5:00 p.m. till 7:00 p.m. For more information call 4484-8000.
ONE OF A KIND THE ST. REGIS DOHA Jazz Afternoon Tea
Sat 1, 8, 15: Jazz at Lincoln Center Doha. While enjoying afternoon tea, get up close and personal with the musicians and learn about the fascinating world of Jazz. Sat 1: Aaron Diehl Quintet with Warren Wolf. Sat 8 & 15: Dominick Farinacci Quintet. QR 178 per person. 3:00 p.m. till 5:00 p.m. For more information call 4446-0105.
MERWEBHOTEL CENTRAL DOHA Jamrock Doha
Thurs 6: M Lounge. Night of Caribbean and urban rhymes with international DJs and artists. Urban, Dancehall, Reggae, R&B, Soca. For more information call 4409-4444 or email doh.cen.sales@merweb.com.
MERWEBHOTEL CENTRAL DOHA Bollywood Night
Fri 7: M Lounge. Every 1st Friday of the month well known Bollywood DJs rock the crowd. Free entrance and membership for ladies. For more information call 4409-4444 or email doh.cen.sales@merweb.com.
W DOHA 411 Doha Exclusive
Fri 14: Crystal. Coming from the hottest parties of Dubai, DJ Bliss mixes up with real flavour. 10:30 p.m. For more information call 4453-5135.
W DOHA No. 1 LED Percussionist: Safix
Fri 21: Crystal. Performing live for the first time In Doha alongside resident DJ Greg mixing all the latest tunes. 10:30 p.m. For more information call 4453-5135.
MERWEBHOTEL CENTRAL DOHA Underground Movement
Thurs 27: M Lounge. International DJ’s and artists. Free entrance and membership for ladies. For more information call 4409-4444 or email doh.cen.sales@merweb.com.
Fri 14: The Grill. The best brunch in the city is back with a Disney theme with all-time favourite characters including children’s entertainment. QR 250 per adult, QR 250 including selected house beverages, QR 125 per child. For more information call 4448-1240.
MERWEBHOTEL CENTRAL DOHA DJ Shadow
Fri 28: M Lounge. DJ Shadow has been awarded the ‘BEST ASIAN DJ’ at the Masala Awards 2010 and at the World Top DJs 2011. Music: definitive mix of funky Bolly Bhangra Hip House. For more information call 4409-4444 or email doh.cen.sales@merweb.com.
EVERY WEEK KEMPINSKI RESIDENCES & SUITES DOHA Cigar Night Sundays: The Lounge. Discover an exclusive selection of Cuban cigars, pair them with your favourite drink, indulge in fine savoury bites along with jazzy sounds from a band. 8.00 p.m. till 2.00 a.m. For more information call 4405-3325.
GRAND HYATT DOHA Happy Day at Dunes
Sundays: Dunes. Forget happy hour, this is happy day! Get 50% on select beverages. Open daily from 5:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. For more information call 4448-1234.
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ENTERTAINMENT & NIGHTLIFE LISTINGS
RECOMMENDS
THE TORCH-DOHA HOTEL Crepito Night Tuesdays: Torch Café. Enjoy savoury and sweet crêpes from the live food station while watching a movie, concert or sports event on the large screen. 7:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4446-5600.
INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA Mashups with DJ Shadi & DJ Steve KZ
Tuesdays: Lava. The two resident DJs present their unique mash-up sounds from 10:00 p.m. with free drinks for ladies all night. For more information call 4484-4444.
SHERATON DOHA Ladies Night
W DOHA Sip & Savour
Saturdays–Thursdays: Spice Market. Sip one, the second is on the house, together with complimentary snacks. 5:30 p.m. till 7:30 p.m. For more information call 4453-5135.
LA CIGALE Ladies Night with DJ Roger Choueiry
Sundays: Madison Piano Bar. Ladies joining the DJ nights will enjoy one welcome drink on the house. Opens from 9:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. No entrance fee; no minimum charge. For more information call 4428-8665.
SHARQ VILLAGE & SPA Happy Hours
Sundays-Thursdays: Cigar Lounge 5:00 p.m. till 8:00 p.m. Al Seef 2:00 p.m. till 5:00 p.m. There’s a choice of two contrasting locations for happy hour with 50% off regular brands and beverages. For more information call 4425-6666.
RITZ-CARLTON DOHA Overtime
Sundays-Thursdays: Level 23. Offering two drinks for the price of one including a selection of vinos, beers and soft drinks (no bottles). From 6:30 p.m. till 8:30 p.m. For more information call 4484-8506.
FOUR SEASONS DOHA Martini Monday
Mondays: Library & Cigar Lounge. Indulge in a selection of signature creations. For more information call 4494-8888.
THE TORCH-DOHA HOTEL Thailand Tonight Mondays: Torch Cafe. Savour Thai delicacies from the live food station while watching a movie, concert or sports event on the large screen. 7:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4446-5600.
W DOHA The Vibe Ladies Night
Mondays: Wham Poolside Lounge. Come at 8:00 p.m. for three complimentary drinks for ladies, at 9:00 p.m. for 2 drinks and at 10:00 p.m. for 1 drink. For more information call 4453-5000.
SHERATON DOHA New Band
Mondays-Saturdays: Irish Harp. Feel like you’re in Ireland at the heart of Doha. Listen to new live entertainment from 8:00 p.m. till 11:45 p.m. For more information call 4485-4071.
Tuesdays: Irish Harp. Feel like you’re in Ireland at the heart of Doha at the Irish Harp. Ladies free entrance and drinks, gents QR 100 including one drink. From 8:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. For more information call 4485-4071.
W DOHA Urban Night
Tuesdays: Crystal. Resident DJ Greg mixing up the best of R&B, Hip-Hop and Old School with a Crystal special twist. Three free drinks for ladies from 10:30 p.m. till 12:00 a.m. For more information call 4453-5135.
MERWEBHOTEL CENTRAL DOHA Latino Night
Tuesdays: M Lounge. The best Latino Night at M Lounge from 8:00 p.m. Free entrance and membership for ladies. For more information call 4409-4444 or email doh.cen.sales@merweb.com.
LA CIGALE Disco Night with DJ/VJ Roger Choueiry
Tuesdays: Sky View. Celebrate disco with 80’s and 90’s mixed live tunes and musical video shows played on a giant LED screen. Opens from 7:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. No entrance fee; no minimum charge. For more information call 4428-8665.
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ENTERTAINMENT & NIGHTLIFE LISTINGS
W DOHA Spice Market Late Night Sessions
Tuesdays–Fridays: Spice Market. Enjoy the South East Asian flavours or sip another drink. 11:30 p.m. till 1:30 a.m. For more information call 4453-5135.
W DOHA Chill-Out with DJ Suzee X Tuesdays-Saturdays: Crystal. Spinning the best of chill-out & funky house music from 8:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. Enjoy Happy Hour daily from 8:00 p.m. till 10:00 p.m. with 50% discount on beverages. For more information call 4453-5135.
THE TORCH-DOHA HOTEL From the Wok
Wednesdays: Torch Café. Enjoy stir-fry platters from the live food station while watching a movie, concert or sports event on the large screen. 7:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4446-5600.
W DOHA Kiss N’ Fly
Wednesdays: Crystal. Ladies get three complimentary drinks from 10:30 p.m. till 12:00 a.m. Check-in for a special flight with international DJ Greg. For more information, call 4453-5135.
INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA Ladies Big Night Out Wednesdays: Paloma and Lava. The Smart Casuals will kick off the night followed by DJ Shadi and DJ Paul Mendez. Unlimited free drinks for ladies from 10:00 pm until late. QR 80 entrance for men; ladies enter free of charge. Membership required. For more information call 4484-4444 or 4484-4936.
MÖVENPICK HOTEL DOHA Be Entertained At Jazz Up Wednesdays & Fridays: Jazz Club. The perfect spot to chill out in the contemporary yet intimate surroundings while listening to smooth tunes and indulging in quality drinks, creative cocktails and an extensive snacks menu with live entertainment. For more information call 4429-1111.
WEEKEND THURSDAY FOUR SEASONS DOHA Beach Bar Lounge
Thursdays: Beach Bar Lounge. Literally footsteps away from the private beach. Relax at the open air bar, while chillin’ and enjoying the panoramic view of Doha at night. 6:00 p.m. till 12:00 a.m. For more information call 4494-8888.
THE TORCH-DOHA HOTEL Chicken & Beef Fajita Night
Thursdays: Torch Café. Enjoy the live food station while watching a movie, concert or sports event on the large screen. 7:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4446-5600.
INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA Party Rok
Thursdays: Lava. Doha’s most refined house music night with unique music from DJs Paul Mendez and Chris Hughes. For more information call 4484-4444.
W DOHA Pure Crystal
Thursdays: Crystal. The legend of house and electro house music coming all the way from the hottest parties of St. Tropez, DJ Stephane Karl mixes up the best on this Magic Night to Remember. For more information call 4453-5135.
GRAND HYATT DOHA Santiago Vittorelli @ Rocca
Thursdays: Rocca. Sophisticated vocal house music in an über-modern waterside venue. Relax on oversized sofas and sip cocktails in the lounge, feast on Mediterranean-influenced cuisine in the restaurant and dance ‘til the early hours. 7:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. For more information call 4448-1272.
LA CIGALE DJ Roger Choueiry
Thursdays and Fridays: 7 Nightclub. A special DJ mix party. From 9:00 p.m till 2:00 a.m. No entrance fee for ladies. For more information call 4428-8665 (Membership required).
FRIDAYS THE TORCH-DOHA HOTEL Burgers & Hot Dogs Night Fridays: Torch Café. Enjoy live food stations while watching a movie, concert or sports event on the large screen. 7:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4446-5600.
SHARQ VILLAGE & SPA Salsa & Candela
Fridays: Cigar Lounge. Lively Latin sounds and a great atmosphere. QR 85 inclusive of a welcome drink. From 9:00 p.m. till 12:00 a.m. For more information call 4425-6666.
KEMPINSKI RESIDENCES & SUITES DOHA Sparkling Fridays Fridays: The Lounge. Fridays are bright and sparkling! All ladies receive two complimentary glasses of bubbly. 7:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. For more information call 4405-3325.
W DOHA Carnival Party
Fridays: Crystal. Enjoy a carnival party with DJ Greg’s special twist. 10:00 p.m. till 3:00 a.m. For more information call 4453-5135.
SATURDAYS KEMPINSKI RESIDENCES & SUITES DOHA Vino e Formaggio Saturdays: The Lounge. Explore an exceptional selection of vino perfectly paired with a rare selection of cheeses, starting from Sat 10. 7:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. For more information call 4405-3325.
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ENTERTAINMENT & NIGHTLIFE LISTINGS
W DOHA Arabesque Night
Saturdays: Crystal. Layali 1001 Nights with The Stars, Jamil and Fadi performing live. All the latest Arabic songs and DJ Imran mixing the best of R&B and Commercial House. 10:00 p.m. till 3:00 a.m. For more information call 4453-5135.
GRAND HYATT DOHA Movie Night
Saturdays: The Grill. Join us on the outdoor terrace for a classic movie projected onto a giant screen with HQ sound, food, drinks and all the trimmings. QR 250. For more information call 4448-1234.
W DOHA Duty Free Sessions
Saturdays: Wahm Poolside Lounge. Chilled beats with a flaming food BBQ buffet and Mojito bar. 6:00 p.m. till 9:00 p.m. QR 120 per person. For more information call 4453-5000.
THE TORCH-DOHA HOTEL Fish & Chips Night
Saturdays: Torch CafĂŠ. Enjoy live food stations while watching a movie, concert or sports event on the large screen. 7:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4446-5600.
MERWEBHOTEL CENTRAL DOHA Ladies Night
Saturdays, Sundays & Mondays: M Lounge. Ladies enjoy free entry, free membership and two free selected beverages. For more information call 4409-4444 or email doh.cen.sales@merweb.com.
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ENJOY THE HOLIDAY GLOW OF HILTON DOHA You are invited to celebrate this festive season at Hilton Doha. Choose from Christmas and New Year’s dinners and brunches at Trader Vic’s, Mawasem and La Sahtaine. Join us for a festive atmosphere, live entertainment and delectable season favorites. For reservations, please call +974 4423 3333
© Hilton Worldwide 2012
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THIS MONTH'S
TOP PICKS
ARTS & CULTURE
VIRGINIA COMMONWEALTH UNIVERSITY IN QATAR
Mariana Heilmann Exhibition Sat 1–Thurs 20: The Gallery at VCUQatar.
QATAR PHILHARMONIC ORCHESTRA
Schubert’s Unfinished Symphony Fri 7: Opera House. Antoniou: KOMMOS B (Lament for Orchestra). Antoniou: Concerto for Clarinet and Orchestra. Schubert: Unfinished Symphony in B Minor, D. 759. Liszt: Les Préludes, S. 97 (Symphonic Poem No. 3), 7:30 p.m. For more information call 4454-8193.
VIRGINIA COMMONWEALTH UNIVERSITY IN QATAR AL MARKHIYA GALLERY
‘Longing’ By Iraqi Artist Mohammad Shammery Thurs 4–Sat 29: Souk Waqif. Saturday through Thursday, 10:00 a.m. till 12:00 p.m., 4:00 p.m. till 10:00 p.m., Friday, 4:00 p.m. till 10:00 p.m. or by appointment. Admission is free. For more information call 4422-8007 or 6600-8750 or email info@almarkhiyagallery.com.
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Colombian-born Mariana Heilmann has worked, exhibited and sold her work in Paris, Houston, Princeton and London over the last 20 years. As well as having a BA degree in 3D Design, she has developed a wide range of skills that fuse into an original contemporary language. For more information call 4402-0555 or visit www.qatar.vcu.edu.
Crossing Boundaries Lecture Series: Craft for the Digital World Wed 5: The
Atrium at VCUQatar. The lecture will focus on knowing how to do or make something, which is as important as the idea behind the work. It will look at the union of digital tools and the knowledge of physical realities, a balancing of the virtual and the analog. 6:00 p.m. For more information call 4402-0555 or visit www.qatar.vcu.edu.
MUSEUM OF ISLAMIC ART
2012 Arabick Roots Sat 1- Mon 31: Temporary Gallery. The exhibition explores and celebrates in different ways, the legacy of science and innovation from Muslim civilization. For more information email educationmia@qma.org.qa. 45 11/26/12 3:44 PM
ARTS & CULTURE
Cultural
Crossover Two spectacular new exhibits are launching this month at Mathaf: Arab Museum of Modern Art. ‘Tea With Nefertiti’ and ‘Forever Now’ explore the different interpretations of Arab culture through a very unique lense. ‘TEA WITH NEFERTITI’: The Making of the Artwork by the Artist, the Museum and the Public (Until March 31, 2013)
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‘Tea with Nefertiti’ explores how artwork can acquire numerous meanings and functions that embody a number of diverse narratives. With Egypt as a case-in-point, it features works that question the framing of cultures, through the mechanisms of display by which the artwork is presented and evaluated. The exhibition traces the journeys that specific artworks have made in time and place. In doing so, it unpacks the complex relationships that exist between such artworks, the artists who first made them, and the institutions that exhibited them. Curated by Sam Bardaouil and Till Fellrath of Art Reoriented, ‘Tea with Nefertiti’ is organized along three thematic chapters. ‘The Artist’s Perspective’ looks at the artwork through the eyes of the artist, highlighting a process of exploration, negotiation and formalistic awareness that marks the creation of an artwork. ‘The Museum’s Perspective’ examines how the meaning of an artwork is altered when viewed in the context of a museum exhibition. ‘The Public’s Perspective’ considers the role of social constructs such as mass media and collective history. The exhibition features 80 artworks dating from circa. 1800 B.C. to 2012, including antiquities, modernist artworks, work from
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26 international contemporary artists and collectives (including a new commission from Bassem Yousri), and more than 50 archival documents and publications.
‘FOREVER NOW’: Five Anecdotes from the Permanent Collection (Until June 1, 2013) Building on its mission to advance the understanding of its unique collection and the visual history of modernity in the Arab world, Mathaf presents ‘Forever Now: Five Anecdotes from the Permanent Collection’. The exhibition posits a new understanding of five diverse modern Arab artists: Fahrelnissa Zeid (1901-1991), Jewad Selim (1921-1961), Saliba Al-Doueihy (19131994), Salim Al-Dabbagh (b. 1941) and Ahmed Cherkaoui (1934–1967).
Featuring 57 works from the museum’s collection, ‘Forever Now’ examines artists’ interactions with their immediate environments, histories, and cultures. The stories presented trace the work and context of these artists, offering a nuanced dialogue between experience and history, fact and interpretation. The five selected artists are from varied backgrounds, countries and generations with each of them contributing to the making of a regional movement in modern art in the Arab world. Their work bears witness to their times, highlighting each discourse as it emerged and evolved. Admission: QR 25 for ‘Tea with Nefertiti’, (free for students and children under 16). Free admission for ‘Forever Now’.
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Tea with Nefertiti Entrance Fee: QAR 25 Free admission for children under 16 years old and students with valid educational institution ID. Forever Now Free admission
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ARTS & CULTURE
Celebrate
With Katara Mark your calendars because the Cultural Village hosts a stellar line-up of events to educate and entertain this holiday season, including musician Sami Yusuf. SAMI YUSUF IN CONCERT December 6, 2012 8:00 p.m. Katara Amphitheater
Katara is delighted to host British singer-songwriter, composer, producer and accomplished musician, Sami Yusuf; one of the most famous artists who influenced and revived Islamic music and combined it with modern styles, shaping the devotional music enjoyed by contemporary Muslims. He’s played across four continents, packing prestigious venues such as Wembley Arena in London, Shrine Auditorium in Los Angeles and The Velodrome in Cape Town, South Africa. His shows and performances are grand and highly personalized, singing in English, Arabic, Turkish, Persian, Urdu, Azeri and Malay, while performing on a multitude of both classical and ethnic instruments. His support of humanity to reach out those in need through concerts earned
him a massive following in the Middle East, North Africa and South-East Asia, making him a partner working in tandem with a United Nations sponsored charity. He has been relentless in assuming his responsibilities as the first global ambassador of Silatech, a Qatar-based initiative promoting entrepreneurial skills and open access to capital and markets for large scale-scale job creation in the MENA region. Committed to crosscultural appreciation through promotion of universal values and celebration of the human spirit, Sami Yusuf avowed that in his world everybody exists and every culture is included.
NAJI AL ALI: CARICATURIST EXHIBITION
caricaturist, Naji Al-Ali. Naji’s career began in 1963 as a caricaturist for the Kuwaiti Newspaper Al Tali’a and eventually included over 10,000 drawings published in newspapers throughout the Arab world. During his lifetime and posthumously, he was awarded many prizes including the prestigious Golden Pen of Freedom award from the International Federation of Newspaper Publishers. Naji was the first ever caricaturist to have won this prize and the first ever Arab journalist to win.
2012 Marks the 25th anniversary of the assassination of the renowned Palestinian
Naji’s iconic cartoons focus exclusively on the plight and resistance of the Palestinian people. He is perhaps best known for his iconic figure, ‘Handala’, a ten year old barefoot Palestinian boy, dressed in
Dec 6 – Jan 12, 2013 10:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m. Katara Gallery 1 & 2, Building 18
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ARTS & CULTURE
rags with his hands defiantly clasped behind his back. To commemorate Naji al-Ali’s numerous achievements and to pay homage to his 25 year-long career, Katara together with Al Markhiya Gallery jointly brings this exhibition. It will be first time ever that Naji’s original drawings will be exhibited in the Middle East and only the second time anywhere since his assassination in London in 1987.
‘ENCOUNTER: R.A.A. IN THE MIDDLE EAST’ EXHIBITION
Dec 6 – March 6, 2013 10:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m. Katara Gallery 1&2, Building 19 and Katara Gallery Building 22 Encounter: The Royal Academy in the Middle East is an exhibition featuring over 80 works of art in a wide variety of media by 25 Royal Academicians and 25 prominent artists from across the Middle East. It offers a unique concept in showcasing the best of contemporary art practice around the globe. Eschewing the presentation of a single curatorial point of view or theme, ‘Encounter’ enters into the spirit of engagement with the international art community and the general public by inviting important artists from different countries to exhibit side-by-side with a selection of prominent Royal Academicians.
The aim of ‘Encounter’ is to provide a platform for dialogue amongst practitioners working in a wide range of media – painting, sculpture, assemblage, photography and video – and for an international team of curators to exchange ideas about different communities and environments and how this translates into visual art experience. The Royal Academy of Arts counts among its members many of the world’s most renowned artists, spanning generations and working in a variety of styles and techniques. Many are rightfully recognized as influential pioneers of contemporary art. The participating Middle Eastern artists are among the most established and eminent talents emerging from around the region. This unique combination of artists presents a rich and dynamic cross-section of cultural perspectives.
‘GALAPÁGOS SURREAL EXHIBITION’ BY FERNANDO ESPINOSA CHAUVIN Dec 10 – Jan 7, 2013 10:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m. Katara Gallery 2, Building 13
In the old sublime aesthetic of the 18th and 19th centuries, artists showed the natural world as threatening and almost overwhelming. In these roots, photographer Fernando Espinosa Chauvín
depicted the Galapágos Islands in a series of expeditions to the place. Surreal and confronting, the fury and raw majesty of nature of the Galapágos, in its various aspects, provides for a creative reading. Chauvín transformed the unfamiliar environs into an attractive subject, creating images of great power and haunting beauty. Photographic works are also elegant, minimalistic visions showing the artist’s great sensitivity to the form and movement of the islands and an almost mystical approach to the subject: the sea appears mirage-like; the wildlife, tantalizing; the rocks, unattainable. It’s a nostalgic and romanticized view of life and the landscape itself. To engage the viewer in his photographs, Chauvín makes use of technology. In doing so, he creates a different structure of imagery, unveiling dense patterns of vegetation and landscape and seamless integration that would be invisible to the naked eye. Reduced to montage, these patterns and textures, serve to denote Chauvín’s spiritual and emotional engagement with the natural world and his ability to record, connect and reveal. 49
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ARTS & CULTURE LISTINGS
RECOMMENDS
Museums Guide 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
IAID Visual & Studio Arts
Saturdays–Thursdays: IAID. Visual and Studio Arts Program is a progressive course from Beginners, Advance, Fine Arts 1 & 2 that covers colour theory, art styles, drawing and painting techniques, shapes and figures, visual art perception, portraits with the use of various art mediums. For more information call 4432-0974/6671-0589.
ONE OF A KIND MUSEUM OF ISLAMIC ART 1001 Inventions
Sat 1-Mon 31: MIA Gallery. Looks at the golden age of Muslim civilization and the scientific innovations that took place. For more information visit www.qma.org.qa.
ALRIWAQ DOHA Art of Travel
Sat 1-Mon 31: Alriwaq Doha. Introduces visitors to the story of Bartholomaus Schachman from the 16th century. For more information visit www.qma.org.qa.
QMA GALLERY Yan Pei-Ming
Sat 1-Mon 31: QMA Gallery. A world-renowned artist best known for his large-scale paintings of cultural icons. For more information visit www.qma.org.qa.
QPO Chamber Music Series: Borodin Quartet
Wed 5: Opera House. 7:30 p.m. For more information call 4454-8193.
QATAR PHILHARMONIC ORCHESTRA Chamber Music
Thurs 13: Atrium at Museum of Islamic Art. Brahms: Clarinet Quintet in B Minor, Op. 115 Erkin: String Quartet No. 1. 6:00 p.m. For more information call 4454-8193.
WEEKLY MUSEUM OF ISLAMIC ART A Course In Ruqa’a And Naskhi Scripts. Sundays–Thursdays: Teachers Room- 2nd floor. Calligraphy workshops at the museum allow adults and educators to experience and learn the historic scripts from a renowned master calligrapher. 9:00 a.m. till 11:00 a.m. For more information email educationmia@qma.org.qa.
IAID Music Courses
Saturdays-Thursdays: IAID. Offers classes in Classical/Modern Piano, Classical/Acoustic Guitar, Electronic Keyboard and Western Vocals. Non-IAID students are welcome. For more information call 4432-0974/6671-0589.
ALRIWAQ DOHA
Museum of Islamic Art Park 4452-5555 Open: Same days as Museum of Islamic Art
QMA Gallery
Building 10, Katara, Cultural VIllage 4408-1255 qmagallery@qma.org.qa Open: Monday--Saturday & Sunday Closed: Fridays
QF Radio 93.7FM Bolded programs in English Bright Morning: 7:00 a.m. International News: 9:30 a.m. Innovations: 10:00 a.m. The Movie Guide: 12:00 p.m. English News: 1:00 p.m. Market Economics: 3:00 p.m. Stars of Science: 3:00 p.m. Green Tea: 4:00 p.m. Therapeutic Fatwas: 4:00 p.m. Voice of the Youth: 5:00 p.m. Raising a Child: 5:00 p.m. Corners: 6:00 p.m. Fashion: 6:00 p.m. Straight Up: 7:00 p.m. Twitter: 7:00 p.m. Legendary Artists: 8:00 p.m. Sport Global: 9:00 p.m.
Sun-Thurs Daily Monday Thursday Daily Tuesday Wed Saturday Friday Thursday Monday Sun--Thurs Saturday Sunday Tuesday Daily Daily
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Qatar
Qatar Happen2012.indd OAF 200x265 QH December 51 EN OL.indd 1
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THIS MONTH'S
TOP PICKS
COMMUNITY
LADIES OF HARLEY
Sat 1: Harley Davidson Shop. The Ladies
SHARQ VILLAGE & SPA
Christmas Tree Lighting & Carols Sat 1: The Lobby. Sip hot chocolate with Christmas cookies, as the festive lights are switched on to the accompaniment of traditional carols. Santa will make his first appearance of the season. 5:30 p.m. till 7:00 p.m. Christmas carols will also be sung from Fri 21–Mon 24 at 4:00 p.m. For more information call 4425-6666.
of Harley meet the first Saturday of each month at 6:00pm at the dealership on Salwa Road. Any female Harley-Davidson enthusiast, either rider or passenger, who enjoys socializing and becoming involved with like-minded women can become a member. For more information visit www.facebook.com/groups/76296760681/.
RADISSON BLU HOTEL DOHA Christmas Carols Sat 24:
Lobby. A festive selection of both classical and modern carols sung by members of staff. 5:00 p.m. in the hotel’s East Wing and at 5:45 p.m. in the West Wing. For more information call 4428-1555.
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DOHA MARRIOTT HOTEL
Xmas Tree Decoration & Lobby Christmas Market Opening Wed 19: Lobby: A performance by the Marriott Choir at 7:30 p.m. For more information call 4429-8499.
DOHA COMMUNITY ORCHESTRA ‘Tis The Season Holiday Concert Sat 15: QR 50 per ticket. Starts at 4:00 p.m. For more information visit www.dohaorchestra.com 53
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SPOTLIGHT ON COMMUNITY
Navigating
National Day
By Sarah Al Motairi Photography by Jessie Palanca
Exciting! Fun! Tiring! Daring! These are all adjectives that best describe Qatar National Day. If you’re new to Qatar, we highly recommend partaking in the celebrations. Immerse yourself in a unique experience; you’ll get to rub shoulders with the locals while celebrating with them in their pride and joy. We’ve got your guide on what to avoid when navigating crowds and traffic, along with the many events to look forward to on the big day.
Qatari youth are the future of the nation
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SPOTLIGHT ON COMMUNITY THE BUILD-UP Weeks before Qatar National Day approaches, many local magazines, newspapers and online sites will efficiently share numerous events linked to National Day around Qatar. The one ‘happening’ event that resonated with my family was the spectacular fireworks show over the Corniche. So, on December 18, 2011, with no car, a three-year-old son, a stroller and whole lot of naïvety, my husband and I braved the Doha streets. This may be the right time to highlight that if you don’t have a car or don’t live in an area close to the Corniche where walking home is an option then you may want to consider avoiding the fireworks at the Corniche. You will see why as my experience continues. Now that I’ve cleared my conscience with that ‘warning’,
I still recommend going to the fireworks, car or not, if you’re adventurous and up for a challenge.
GRIDLOCK We called a driver we’d been working with since arriving in Doha. When we asked him to drop us at the Corniche he instantly told us that he wouldn’t be able to drop us further than the White Palace on Al Corniche Road. Once we got there we realized why he had so unwaveringly steered clear. The roads were bustling with activity. Cars and people alike were almost at a stand-still due to the congestion. Vehicles were parked as far back as Al Rayyan Road behind the White Palace as excited spectators flooded the streets on foot.
Weaving through the torpid traffic on Al Corniche Road was an adventure in itself. Locals and expats alike shared in the jubilance. Toyota Land Cruisers were transformed into moving flags with cars painted in burgundy and white. The Emir, Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani and his son, Sheikh Tamim Bin Hamad Al Thani were given the utmost respect with their faces printed on car windows, flags and poster boards. The Qatari people love their Emir and their country and are not afraid to show it. People of all ages had their faces painted with the colours of Qatar’s flag.
NATIONAL PRIDE Young boys sported thobes spray-painted with hearts and slogans of appreciation for their country. Music poured out of cars, filling the air with a jambalaya of Western and Eastern music. In less than 30 seconds our ears were infused with the sounds of Shakira, Mohammed Abdu, 50 Cent and Ali Abdul Sattar. Teenage boys sang in sync as they waved, blew kisses, and bellowed in admiration for their country. Crossing the street felt like a round of Tetris. After what seemed like hours, jig-sawing our way through the cars and people,we finally made it to the Corniche strip, found a spot to settle in and waited in anticipation for the grand fireworks show. Off went the first bang! All eyes to the sky! Pink, blue, red and green, hearts, happy faces, swirls and twirls. As the sky roared, as the stars disappeared amongst the bright lights, as the water below reflected the grand show above, from one end of the Corniche to the other, the audience stood in awe. Little did we know that the best was yet to come. The last minute of the fireworks show had everyone in silence. The skies lit up in such a manner that I felt blown, literally, off my feet. I could feel the pressure in the air, the force from the skies pushing me back a couple of feet. As fast as the show began it had ended. We, the people, locals and expats alike, cheered, clapped, whistled and smiled in harmony. What a feeling. What a truly universal feeling.
Decked out cars show off the national pride
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SPOTLIGHT ON COMMUNITY
Jets in formation
CROWD-SURFING It was now time to head home. With smiles on our faces we started to make our way through the euphoric crowds. Not a taxi in sight. It was 8:45 p.m. and we figured our best bet would be to walk to City Center and catch a taxi from there. My, oh my, were we wrong! What is usually a fleet of taxis was virtually a ghost town. City Center employees were seated on the stairs of the mall entrance with no way to get home, staring out at cars jammed into the streets. We knew, there and then, we were in trouble. A lone Karwa taxi passed by and we quickly asked for a ride home. After hearing we lived in Al Sadd, he politely informed us that traffic police had blocked off all road access to Al Sadd from the Corniche and as quickly as he had come, he had gone. We decided to walk home – surely a walk from the Corniche to Al Sadd’s Toys ‘R’ Us wouldn’t be so bad. After all, we were used to trekking the streets of New York City. By now, it was 10:30pm. According to our calculations, we would be home by midnight tops but we naïvely forgot to take into account the heat and the traffic. We walked for what felt like eternity. Past The Gate Mall we went, under the Tornado tower we walked, alongside the Khalifa International Tennis Complex we trekked, around the National Theater roundabout we hustled, but no Al Sadd in sight. At this point we had a sleepy toddler in the stroller and four very tired feet. In the distance, near Hamad Hospital intersection, I could see traffic police parked with no traffic in sight. I suggested to my husband that we ask them to take us home. Enthusiastically my husband said, “There’s no harm in trying.”
TRAS FUN NATIONAL DAY EX •
Qatari flag cupcakes at Tasmeem bakery
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& fridge Qatari flag keyholders qif magnets from Souq Wa
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al Car decals in the nation ng nti Pri ar Fan m colours fro
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igns Qatari flag nail polish des lon Sa can eri from Glow Am
GOOD SAMARITANS I approached an officer who was fiddling with his cell phone and pityingly stated that we had been walking for hours, we are new to Doha, didn’t have a car, had a sleepy three-year-old son in tow and no way of getting home. Without any hesitation, the officer quickly said “Let me get permission from the officer in charge as we will have to leave our post.” Seconds later he informed us that a unit was on the way to take us home. As we waited for police escort we had a friendly discussion. He was surprised to hear that I was a Saudi married to an American and even more surprised to hear that I was not fluent in Arabic and that English was my first language. After minutes of waiting and small talk, the officer decided to drop us home himself, with permission from his superior, of course. He apologetically cleaned out his back seat that was littered with fast food containers and into his car we hopped, relieved and tired. In no more than ten minutes we were home. We sincerely thanked the officer for his help and bid him a warm “As Salam Alaykum.”
Eager onlookers await the parade
Our experience is one we will probably never deliberately encounter again but we were delighted for it. We enjoyed an authentic Qatari National Day and more importantly we shared in the joys of the Qatari people. Now that we have a car and know what to expect, you can be sure to find us at the fireworks show on the Corniche again this year in the midst of beeping horns and a dynamic people. Hope to see you all there!
CORNICHE EVENTS At press time events for National Day 2012 festivities have not yet been confirmed by the National Day Committee. However, these are some of the Corniche activities that took place last year that may be repeated. For details please visit www.ndqatar.com as the full schedule will be released ten days prior to December 18.
•
National Day Parade: Dec18, audiences must arrive before 7:30 a.m. • Dhow Laser Show: Dec 17, 7:00 p.m. – 11:00 p.m. Dec 18, 5:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. • Student Drawings on Doha’s Towers: Dec 17, 5:00 p.m.– 10:00 p.m. • Classic Cars Exhibition: Dec 18-30, Starts at 10:00 a.m. • Fireworks Display: Dec 18, 8:00 p.m.
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SPOTLIGHT ON COMMUNITY
Women A r e Th e
Key By Khalifa Saleh Haroon
With National Day celebrations ramping up, I Love Qatar takes a look at how Qatari women are the future of the nation.
I
t’s December and everyone is gearing up for National Day festivities, planning for the holiday season, or excited to celebrate the New Year. If you’re into fireworks and want to enjoy a time when everyone’s out in the streets with smiles from ear to ear, parades, fireworks, decorated cars (some beautiful and some that make you shudder), and more entertainment than you can handle, make sure to stick around here in Doha. On December 18, 1878, Sheikh Jassem Bin Mohamed bin Thani succeeded his father as the ruler of Qatar. With that, Qatar became a country with a vision; a country that would find unity, grow rapidly, and reach towards extraordinary heights. The Qatari people have always pushed to make their mark. Education is provided to all Qataris, the 2030 vision gives us a roadmap for our future and role models like His Highness Sheikh Hamad Bin Khalifa Al Thani lead by example.
WOMEN AS ROLE MODELS I should really be focusing on the topic of National Day, but I’d like to talk about women. Oh yes. Women – hard-working, sensitive, talented and perhaps even driven by the fact they want to prove they’re the future of Qatar. It’s clear to
me that a lot of women paid attention as Qatar grew. Thinking back to my experiences in the workplace, I’ve seen women put in double the effort. They crave responsibilities, study harder, work harder and take calculated risks. Even the best entrepreneur would envy their work ethic. Of course some would say that I’m generalizing and I may well be, but remember, I can only talk about my experiences. Need some examples? Well we’ve got an obvious example like Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser -- making a difference in Qatar and the world when it comes to education, humanitarian efforts and mixing that up with fashion trends of course. The message I take away from everything that she’s done is: life’s about leaving behind an enviable legacy of positive change. Then there’s Aysha Al Mudhehki (and her team of course) who has done a fantastic job with Injaz. Did you know that in five years, they’ve reached 5,000 students by bringing together businesses, corporate volunteers and educators to inspire young people to succeed? She then worked with Shareefa Fadhel to launch the Roudha, a women’s centre for entrepreneurship and innovation.
I’ve also got to mention Maha Al Essa, who’s started her own design agency called ‘974 Design’, an agency that in my opinion could compete with some of the biggest ones out there. I’d also like to add that she was my first direct report when I was with the online team at Vodafone. She went from someone with no experience, head-first into a new challenge and came out a star. I’m proud of that.
JUST THE FACTS Did you know that the majority of top students and graduates are female? Did you know that they’re better at multi-tasking? Being able to focus on everything and still getting it all done. Did you know that there’s a steady rise of female managers and executives? These ladies are stepping it up and I’m worried that many of us guys are going to be left in the dark, especially since they are that figurative light at the end of the tunnel when it comes to Qatar’s future. Inshallah my daughters, when I have children one day, can be half the women that these amazing people are. So what do you say ladies? Care to make my prediction come true? We’re still in 2012 and I think I’ve only just seen the beginning. 2013 will be the year of women in Qatar. 57
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SPECIAL PROMOTION
A Wise
Investment
James Kennerdale, financial consultant with Guardian Wealth Management Qatar gives advice on how to manage your assets wisely in an unstable market.
H
ardly a day goes by without another headline screaming of the doom and gloom within the financial markets and unfortunately it shows no signs of slowing. The world has watched as billions of dollars have been wiped from the stock markets and a variety of ‘safe haven’ assets – those considered less risky – have soared in popularity as investors dash to protect their cash. Amid this volatility, however, we can expect to see a familiar pattern emerge: the rise and decline of confidence among investors. Known as a ‘bull and bear market’, investors have long ploughed money into sectors when the general air of the market is one of confidence and shied away when the economy is on the decline. But while flocking towards a particular investment during the good times might seem like a great idea, eventually it will run out of steam and having all your eggs in one basket might not have seemed so sensible after all.
THE IMPORTANCE OF DIVERSITY Often investors want to know how they can be expected to protect their money while making returns when the economy is on a downward spiral and the answer is always the same: diversify your assets. Diversification is crucial; it follows the rule that if any investor spreads his wealth across a range of investment sectors such as gold, technology or retail, he has a better chance of surviving the dips in the market. Quite simply, if an investor has assets in a sector or market that is not faring so well, they will be offset by investments in sectors that are proving more profitable.
on the value of asset allocation and diversification. For those of us looking to invest our hard-earned cash for greater peace of mind down the line, he said asset allocation – an investment strategy that balances risk and reward – remains the biggest driver in netting the investor a decent return.
THE RISK FACTOR Sound easy? Perhaps not. Age, employment and personal circumstances will all need to be taken into account when deciphering the level of risk an investor is willing to take. Living and working in Qatar, enjoying the benefits afforded to expats here through a great lifestyle and tax-free income, could result in a much higher willingness to take risk than for someone living in a struggling economy where job security is low and there is less disposable income.
“Long-term investment is to set money aside month by month.”
We recently invited guest speaker Mike Azlen from Frontier Investment Management to talk at our seminar
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SPECIAL PROMOTION It’s vital that investors understand their exact risk appetite and ask themselves how much they are willing to lose. For most people, preserving their wealth is enough but for others making big bucks is the name of the game and they are willing to take on more risk to achieve this. A further factor that needs to be considered is whether an investor is looking for an increase in the price of an asset or income. Age and the duration of the investment will be the two deciding factors. Younger investors have the luxury of time to wait for their capital to grow, whereas older investors might have a greater need for income-producing investments such as bonds to help them through their retirement years. Once an investor knows how much risk they are willing to take, it can be matched with a strategy that involves spreading the investments across a wide range of assets such as cash, bonds or equities, and across geographical locations. It’s worth remembering that it’s not the ‘time of the markets’ that investors should focus upon but the time spent in the markets. A lump sum investment should be held for at least five years in order to have a decent chance of beating cash rates. A popular way of doing this and building long-term investments is to set money aside month by month. Finally, investors looking to get a bit more daring with their assets and want a taste of precious metals, fine wines and antiques must ensure they know exactly what those entail. Specialist knowledge is required to ensure that these assets – however glamourous they may sound – will really add value to your portfolio.
INVESTORS’ JARGON •
Bull and bear markets: upw ard and downward trends in the financial markets.
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Risk appetite: the amoun t of exposure to riskier investm ents an individual wants.
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Diversification: investing in a variety of assets.
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Safe haven assets: the saf est investments in the market that are not as affected by ups and downs.
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COMMUNITY LISTINGS
RECOMMENDS
Community Guide Australian and New Zealand Business in Qatar Group 6651-1892 www.anzbiq.org
American Women’s Association 5511-8085 www.awaqatar.com
Doha Players
4447-4911 Search ‘Doha Players Lovers’ Group on Facebook
DOHA MUMS Pearl Coffee Break
Wednesdays: The Pearl-Qatar. Calling all Moms on The Pearl to go to Second Cup, near Tower 3. From 3:00 p.m. till 4:30 p.m. for a social catch-up. Colouring books and pencils will be provided for the little ones. For more information visit www.dohamums.com or email events@dohamums.com.
ONE OF A KIND AMERICAN WOMEN’S ASSOCIATION Monthly General Meeting
Mon 10: The monthly general meeting is an opportunity to learn about upcoming events, make new friends and find out how you can get more involved. Each month promises an interesting guest speaker, invaluable information and good company. 10:00 a.m. till 12:00 p.m., Grand Hyatt Doha. RSVP: membership@awaqatar.com or visit www.awaqatar.com or call 5511-8085.
AL SOUDAN Fertility Support Group
Wed 5: Near Billboard Intersection. From time to time, guest speakers will be invited along to provide information and be available for Q&A in a more intimate environment than the formality of the consulting room. 7:30 p.m. For more information, visit www.fertilityA@dohamums.com.
LANDMARK Garden Club
Mon 31: The One Coffee Shop. Talk about all things green with regular presenters and garden tours. From 10:30 a.m. till 12:00 p.m. For further details please visit www.dohamums.com.
EVERY WEEK DOHA MUMS New Arrivals Coffee
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
Mondays: Grand Heritage Hotel. Join the Doha Mums in welcoming prospective members to Doha. From 9:30 a.m. No RSVP necessary. For more information visit www.dohamums.com or email events@dohamums.com.
Silver Dhow Association
DOHA MUMS Expectant & New Mums Coffee
Tuesday Ladies Group
Thursdays: Starbucks, City Center and Grand Heritage Hotel. Join other new moms and moms-to-be to talk all things baby! Doha Mums hosts a coffee meet from 10:00 a.m. till 12:00 a.m. For more information visit www.dohamums.com or email events@dohamums.com.
4435-2598
Turkish Women’s Association 5513-4803
Email: tlgindoha@gmail.com
SASCOM: South Africans In Qatar
www.southafricansinqatar.netfirms.com
Canadians In Qatar
Search ‘Canadians In Qatar’ Group on Facebook to join the community
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KIDS CLUB THIS MONTH'S
TOP PICKS
Museum of Islamic Art Legend of the Mask Sat 1, 8, 15, 22, 29: M Level Debriefing
IAID
Modern Jazz For Kids Saturdays, Sundays, Mondays & Wednesdays: IAID. Designed to train students to professional standard with technical exercises and exciting routines. For more information call 4432-0974.
Room. Inspired by MIA’s 15th Century War Mask, children will embark on a historic adventure by transforming themselves into mask craftsmen. Age group: 6-10 years. For more information email mmoura@qma.org.qa.
SHARQ VILLAGE & SPA
Gingerbread Decorating Fri 21 & Sat 22: Al Qareb 2. Children five years and over learn to decorate their very own gingerbread house to take away with them. Price includes finger food and beverages. QR 220 per person. 10:00 a.m. till 12:00 p.m. For more information call 4425-6666.
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RITZ-CARLTON DOHA
Teddy Bear Tea – Binki Comes To Doha! Tues 18–Mon 24: Fateh Al Khair. Make sure you spend the afternoon with us while Binki will entertain the little ones and the grown-ups alike with Christmas stories, songs and dance! 2:00 p.m.– 4:00 p.m. QR 150 per person. For more information call 4484-8000.
GRAND HERITAGE DOHA
Family Gingerbread House Making Sat 15: Blue. Mark the festive season and learn to prep, make, decorate and garnish your gingerbread house to your preference. QR 175 per house. 2:00 p.m. till 5:00 p.m. For more information call 4445-5555. 61
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SPOTLIGHT ON COMMUNITY
Beating the
Doha Daze
By Sarah Al-Motairi
If you’re new to Doha meeting people outside of work can sometimes seem challenging. We show you that there are friendly faces around every corner.
W
hen I first arrived in Doha from New York I was both excited and anxious about meeting new people. As a Saudi, I was happy, to once again, live in a country with so much culture, tradition, comfort and calls for prayer. As an Arab expatriate living in New York, I was happy to move back to a country that provided security, academic stability and social diversity for my family and myself. One of the reasons my husband and I made our move from New York to Doha was to give our son and future children an international upbringing, one that was not tainted by invisible cultural or racial boundaries. As the excitement of being back in the Middle East wore off and I settled into a daily routine I began to sink. As days turned into weeks and weeks turned into months I slowly started to slip into the ‘Doha Daze’. I caught the hibernation bug and instead of being out and about meeting people I decided to nag my husband into the abyss of endless selfvictimization. “Where can I meet people?” I would pitifully say. “I am bored and lonely,” I would protest. “I have no life but our two-year-old son,” I would resentfully highlight. It was what my husband said to me next that woke me up, “You have to get out of the house, join a group, introduce yourself to people and make friends.” He was right. Sitting at home moaning about wasn’t going to help me get a social life.
So, you might be wondering how and where does one meet people in Doha? I hope my experiences will be helpful whether you ‘re new to the city or still stuck in the ‘Doha Daze’.
I
PARKS.
The weather is cooling down and being outdoors no longer feels like a Bikram Yoga class gone wrong. Parks have been a social lifesaver for me. From Aspire Park to the MIA Park, from Dahl Al Hamam Park to the Sheraton Park, I always find interesting and fun people to meet. When I’m feeling lonely or bored parks are where I go to socialize, let my son loose, chat and take in some fresh air. The key is to be bold. Approach people. Talk to them. You’ll find that most people are very welcoming and willing to make new friends too.
ART AND ENTERTAINMENT EVENTS. Throughout Doha, all year round, there’s an array of events that are open to the public. Last year, my family and I attended the International Food Festival held at the Doha Exhibition Center. Within a span of three hours and delicious food tasting I was able to exchange numbers with three lovely ladies. Eight months later, we are friends and frequently meet up for coffee, children’s play dates and family gatherings.
Fun at th
e Doha
Cornich
e
AND ACLASSES WORKSHOPS.
If your mornings are free, find a class or workshop to attend. Doha has a great range of classes and workshops offered all year round. Whether you’ve been keen to learn a new language, brush up on your writing skills, or begin a new hobby like photography, Doha is the place to do it. Katara offers a number of art and photography workshops often free of charge. Private language centers offer the chance to learn a new language at a fee. Communities such as Doha Mums offer writing groups whether you are an amateur or self-proclaimed Khalil Gibran. And hey, while you’re busy fine-tuning your interests you’ll have made a number of friends with similar interests with no effort needed.
NATIONAL DAY EVENTS. With Qatar National Day right around the corner, why not attend a number of events that Doha offers. Whether you enjoy a family fun-filled day at Katara or a more intimate dinner at the Ritz, have no doubt that you will meet interesting people from all over the world. This is also a perfect opportunity to meet Qatari nationals as they enjoy their National Day celebrations. Most of our non-Khaleeji friends often say to me that they are intimidated to approach Khaleejis but I can promise you, as a Khaleeji (Gulf citizen)
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SPOTLIGHT ON COMMUNITY
The Doha skyline in myself, we are usually open to meeting new people from around the world even though we may come off as stand-offish. We are shy, raised to be reserved but by all means friendly, social and need a little push every now and then. Just remember, keep it gender segregated if you do choose to approach a Khaleeji. So, let your guard down, find common ground and make some new friends.
UYOUR CHILDREN.
Adults always accompany childfriendly environments; hence, you will always meet adults through your children. Make a conscious effort to take your children to indoor play areas such as Rays Reef at the Royal Plaza, children’s workshops at the Museum of Islamic Art or Café Ceramique at The Mall. Your children will have fun playing and learning while you have fun socializing.
HUSBAND’S MYOUR FRIENDS/CO-WORKERS.
Yes, you read right: your husband’s friends/ co-workers. If you don’t work this next tip is sure to be a winner. It took me a year before I came to the realization that my husband’s friends were the key to having an active social life in Doha. Our husbands are social butterflies and sometimes don’t even know it. They are constantly meeting new people through their jobs. With their jobs come invites to various events.
the city we call home
.
At first, I felt awkward accompanying my husband to events because I felt that I was an outsider, not part of the ‘crew’. I didn’t know his co-workers and assumed that I would be a third wheel at events. Boy, was I wrong! In less than two gatherings I met over six lovely ladies that I connected with instantly. Our husband’s friends’ wives frequent these same events, as they too, are anxious to meet new people. If you’re like me and you’re life revolves around your children then these events sober you up with a reminder that you need to deck up, go out into the night and enjoy being child-free every now and then. Qatar is a nation of people from all over the world. We span all seven continents and we come in all shapes and shades. However, we are all here for a common purpose: to make a better living and experience a new culture in the process. So, let’s be bold, let’s make this experience count and let’s get out there, meet people, learn from one another and grow as the diverse society that we are. 63
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SPOTLIGHT ON KIDS CLUB
The Family Circle By Jacqueline Bodnar
Looking for a great way to bring your family closer together, teach your children table manners and help keep them away from destructive behaviours all at the same time? Regularly eating family dinners together may just be what you’re looking for.
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SPOTLIGHT ON KIDS CLUB
T
hink eating together doesn’t matter? Think again! We show you why sitting down together is so important.
THE RESEARCH
A recent study conducted by Roper Public Affairs & Media found that there are great benefits to a family regularly eating together. The study found that families that eat together are less likely to have children that engage in destructive behaviours such as drinking alcohol or taking drugs. Their report also showed that children in families that don’t eat together are more likely to feel disconnected from one another.
news, learn what’s going on for each other, and have time to do the things for which families can be essential: support each other instrumentally and emotionally.” Eating together provides a great place for communication and for families to be able to share good and bad news and it acts as a consistent place where kids feel they belong and know they can always return to for help and support.
THE OBSTACLES
With all the known benefits of families eating dinner together, still many feel it’s hard to find the time to eat together regularly. By the looks of things we have become such a fastpaced society that many have rushed themselves right out of important family dinners. Dr. Fruzzetti points out that some factors that lead families to not be able to make time for dinners together include people being distracted by electronic devices such as television and video games and parents spending more hours each week working and commuting than they did in the past.
“Coming together around dinner provides a kind of family focal point for the day.”
A similar report was issued last year by The National Center on Addiction and Substance Abuse at Columbia University that showed that families that frequently eat dinners together have children that are less likely to smoke, drink or use illegal drugs. If that’s not enough to convince you then maybe the fact that the studies found other benefits such as bringing families closer together and teaching children healthy eating habits will.
THE BENEFITS
“Coming together around dinner provides a kind of family focal point for the day,” says Dr. Alan Fruzzetti, an associate professor of psychology at the University of Nevada, Reno. “Parents and kids catch up on
PRIORITIZING If you would like to get your family to sit down together regularly to family meals you have to make it a priority. Dr. Fruzzetti suggests that families list
AS TOP REASONS TO EAT ILY M A FA
• • • • • •
Better communication Family bonding Ensures healthy nutrition Emotional support Builds self-esteem ety Encourages a senses of saf
their priorities and post them on the refrigerator and when things come up that may interfere they can remind each other of their family priority. Start out by asking yourself what you can do to change the way things are so that your family can come together each night to eat together and then work to make it happen. There are other ways for families to spend quality time together besides sharing a meal, but dinner time is a great opportunity that occurs daily. If you can’t do dinner each day then make sure to get together each day for family bonding. “Children may lose some reliance on their family as the central and most important unit in their life,” says Dr. Fruzzetti of families not eating together, “and instead may rely relatively more on friends, school, etc.”
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KIDS CLUB LISTINGS
RECOMMENDS
IAID Hip-Hop
Tuesdays & Thursdays: IAID. A popular high-energy urban class that uses the latest music combined with movement and choreography inspired by today’s hottest Hip Hop tunes. For more information call 4432-0974.
DOHA MUMS Fun Time
W DOHA Gingerbread Decorating
Fri 14: Market. Decorate your own gingerbread cookies and eat as many as you can. QR 100 per adult, QR 70 per child from 5-11 yrs. Decorate 5 cookies: QR 15. First seating 4:00 p.m. till 10:00 p.m., Second seating: 7:30 p.m. till 10:30 p.m. Free ribbon wrapping available. For more information call 4453-5000.
ONE OF A KIND
EVERY WEEK
MUSEUM OF ISLAMIC ART Through the Looking Glass II
DOHA MUMS Playgroup for Kids Born in 2009
Wed 5, 12, 19: M level Debriefing Room. This 3-part workshop inspired by MIA’s Islamic Glass exhibition is tailored to your pre-schooler. They will create their own version of glass sculpture and start your child’s first picture book with his/ her favourite works of art. Age group: 3-5 years. 10:00 a.m. till 11:00 a.m. For more information email mmoura@qma.org.qa.
MUSEUM OF ISLAMIC ART Islamic Design and Patterns Thurs & Fri 6, 7, 13, 14, 20, 21, 27, 28: M Level Studio Room. The Islamic Design and Pattern workshop allows teenagers to engage with the rich geometries and patterns of MIA’s collection. Age group: 14-18 years. 3:00 p.m. till 5:00 p.m. For more information email daldeweik@qma.org.qa.
Sundays: Abu Hamour area. Inviting all mums of 2009 toddlers to come and join in for a play, coffee and snacks from 1:00 p.m. till 3:00 p.m. For more information visit www.dohamums.com or email events@dohamums.com.
DOHA MUMS Bubbles Playgroup
Mondays: Fun City play area, City Center Mall. 2010 bubs are invited for some fun playtime every second Monday. 10:00 a.m. till 12:00 p.m. For more information visit www.dohamums.com or email rsvp@dohamums.com.
DOHA MUMS Pool Sessions
Mondays: InterContinental. 9:30 a.m. till 12:30 p.m. and 3:00 p.m. till 6:00 p.m. The little ones will enjoy the shaded pool and the older kids can explore Doha’s longest private beach. RSVP necessary. For more information visit www.dohamums.com or email events@dohamums.com.
Tuesdays and Sundays: Royal Plaza. Located on the 2nd floor from 2:30 p.m. on Tuesday and from 4:00 p.m. on Sundays. It’s a fun and clean area with lots of options for your kid(s) to choose from, suitable for different age groups. RSVP is required. For more information visit www.dohamums.com or email events@dohamums.com.
DOHA MUMS Mums and Babies Playgroup
Wednesdays: Al Waab area. Share your experiences with other mums while the babies play and you have a tea! 9:30 a.m. till 11:30 a.m. For further information visit www.dohamums.com or email rsvp@dohamums.com.
DOHA MUMS Toddler Playgroup
Wednesdays: Ain Khalid. Bring your toddlers along for a casual playgroup! 10:00 a.m. till 12:00 p.m. For further information visit www.dohamums.com or email rsvp@dohamums.com.
DOHA MUMS Parachute Play
Wednesdays: Al Waab area. From 10:00 a.m. till 12:30 p.m. For more information visit www.dohamums.com or email events@dohamums.com.
GEORGE V SPA Zumba Class & Pool Usage
Thursdays: Dance Studio. 10:00 a.m. till 11:00 a.m. on the first floor of Beverly Hills Tower, West Bay. For more information visit www.dohamums.com.
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THIS MONTH'S
TOP PICKS FOOD & DINING
HOLIDAY VILLA DOHA ORYX ROTANA
A Sizzling National Day Tues 18: Choices. Come and eat your fill of prize cuts of tender meat at Steak Night, serving up sizzling steaks, char-grilled or seared, rare or well done, all with a choice of sauces and side dishes. For more information call 4402-3333.
Malaysian Hi Tea Saturdays: A large selection of Malaysian delicacies, free-flowing Thé Tarik. 12:00 p.m. till 4:00 p.m. QR 110 per adult, QR 75 per child aged 4-12 years. For more information call 4408-4888.
RITZ-CARLTON DOHA
Chef’s Table Mon 10: Porcini. All food aficionados are invited into the show kitchen as Chef Ricardo will demonstrate the preparation of the exquisite white truffle. At the end of the evening, each guest will receive a recipe book as a gift to remember. QR 450 per person. For more information call 4484-8000.
OUT om K C E CH ening.c
p atarhap information! q . w w w e latest for th
LA CIGALE
Thursdays All’Italiana Thurs 6, 13, 20, 27: Di Capri. An exceptional Italian experience amidst the authentic performance of a talented musician singing the most beautiful Italian and English melodies. ‘Thursdays All’Italiana’ features two formulas: live cooking A Go-Go pasta at QR 85 and a 3-course set menu at QR 190. Both formulas are inclusive of one glass of house beverage or soft drink. For more information call 4428-8698.
WYNDHAM GRAND REGENCY DOHA
Qatari Week Sun 16–Fri 21: Grand Gourmet. Celebrate Qatar National Day by tasting Qatari dishes during the whole week for dinner and a special Qatari traditional food buffet lunch on December 18. 6:30 p.m. till 10:30 p.m. For more information call 4434-3203 or 4434-3333. 69
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SPOTLIGHT ON FOOD & DINING
Lush Brunch By Jorge Granda Photography by Sanjaya Gihan Munindradasa
The Friday Jazz Brunch at the Oryx Rotana has a reputation for being sophisticated with a festive vibe and it certainly lives up to the hype. QH takes a bite.
C
an’t decide what to have for brunch? Then you must go to the Friday Jazz Brunch at the Oryx Rotana because there you can find it all. The atmosphere is lively with a band performing jazz music, and the food is diverse.
Steaming tu
Slicing it up
TEMPT YOUR TASTEBUDS The five-star hotel offers its best dishes at cooking stations in a stylish gourmet atmosphere. If fresh pasta with sauce made minutes is what you’re looking for? They’ve got it. Or how a whole station of sushi and another one of hot mezzah and mixed grill where you can fill your plate at your disposal? They’ve got that as well, along with a cold kitchen station that includes salads and appetizers, and a pastry station that includes sweets, ice cream and a chocolate fountain. The brunch also features a kids station. At the Friday Jazz Brunch guests are taken on a culinary journey through a range of different dishes and spectacular flavours, giving you the perfect reason to leave your diet at the door and not feel guilty about it. The best bit though is that nothing I tried was disappointing or second-rate, everything was just perfect.
ENJOY THE AMBIANCE But let’s forget about the food for a minute - because let’s face it, the atmosphere and venue also play a big role when deciding where to go for a brunch in Doha and it has to be said, the brunch at the Oryx has something very special that I haven’t experienced anywhere
reens of Indi
an delicacie
s
A jazzy ambiance
ABOUT CHOICES RESTAURANT else. The combination of the open space, glass windows, natural lighting and jazz music playing in the background makes this brunch very cosmopolitan. I felt I was sipping my drink and having my sushi somewhere in New York or London (for me the most international cities out there!) I was pleasantly surprised with the entire set-up; it felt glamourous, yet unpretentious, very urban and modern. Basically the Friday Jazz Brunch is the perfect option if you’re up for some nice dishes, great music and buzzing ambiance inside a particularly unique restaurant. I highly recommend trying it at least once.
Location: Choices Restaurant at the Oryx Rotana When: Every Friday Timing: 12:30 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. Price: QR 249 with unlimited juices & soft drinks QR 324 with unlimited selected house beverages. Last order for beverages is at 3:15 p.m. Contact Info: 4402-3333
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SPOTLIGHT ON FOOD & DINING
f o d r Wo h t u Mo
Light and creamy saltwater prawns and
avocado toast
We sent one QH reader to sample the brunch at Opal by Gordon Ramsay in the St. Regis Doha. Wissam Assaf has the review. QH: Were the prices reasonable? WA: Yes. The cost is QR 250 for all-you-can-eat from the International Brunch menu, without bubbly, which is very reasonable.
Wissam Assaf
QH: What did you order? WA: We had the following: • Saltwater prawns and avocado toast • Smoked salmon with labneh and chives • Opal min-Angus burger with comté cheese and tomato ketchup • Roasted sea bass with caper butter sauce • Eggs Benedict with rockets and smoked salmon • Wagyu beef slices with eggroll, flat-bread, squash, caper berries and Camembert cheese • Pineapple carpaccio with passionfruit and coriander sorbet • Chocolate tart with salted caramel ice cream • Vanilla profiterole with chocolate dust
QH: Describe the ambiance. WA: Very noisy inside, but cozy decoration and a nice view with music if you sit outside. QH: Describe the quality of the food. WA: Excellent, well-presented and tasty. QH: Describe the quality of the service. WA: Very friendly and welcoming, generous and helpful. QH: Would you go back? Why/why not? WA: Yes, mainly for the tasty, light dishes, quality and friendliness. QH: Favourite thing about the restaurant WA: The service is quite good and the prices are very reasonable for the quantity and quality. Also the product knowledge of the by all the servers and waitresses. QH: Least favourite thing about the restaurant
WA: If you want a quiet meal it’s not the best place and if you decide not to give your car to the valet parking the way to the restaurant will be quite challenging as you have to pass through smelly and not very clean passage-ways. QH: Was there a special touch or flair to the experience? WA: Being in a Gordon Ramsay restaurant is an exceptional experience by itself and this one was not any less, with its attention to detail and an over-all well-run establishment. QH: Could the overall experience be improved? If so, how? WA: Just a little bit, with better quality drinking glasses and plates, but a very pleasant experience all in all. For reservations call 4446-0105.
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 Editorin-Chief. All hotel PR and food and beverage departments are aware of the content and receive a copy.
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SPECIAL PROMOTION
CELEBRATE YOUR
CHRISTMAS WITH US…..
The Sizzling Hot Pot offers you a unique dining experience, to design your own dishes and to cook them with your choice of ingredients to suit your individual taste at your table and make your home away from home this Christmas. SIZZLING HOT POT CHRISTMAS GROUP MENU OPTION 1- BUFFET
OPTION 2, SET MEAL (ALL WILL BE SERVED AT THE TABLE)
PRICE; QR.129.00 PER PERSON
PRICE; QR.240.00 PER SET FAMILY PACKAGE (4 PERSONS)
Soup of the day with your choice of vegetables Fresh Garden salad with dressing Sliced Beef, Chicken and varieties of seafood SHP chef’s special selection of sauces Cooked food ( Rice, noodles, ) Tropical fresh fruits and traditional Asian Dessert selection
Soup of the day with varieties of vegetables Fresh Garden salad with dressing ( Buffet ) Sliced Beef, Chicken and varieties of seafood SHP chef’s special selection of sauces Cooked Rice Tropical fresh fruits and traditional Asian Dessert selection (Buffet )
CHOWKING CHRISTMAS GROUP MEAL PACKAGES
RY PURCHASE OF GET BIG SAVINGS FOR EVE ANY GROUP MEAL GOOD FOR 4 PERSONS - 150 GROUP MEAL 1 (GM 1) QR Sweet & Sour Chicken Salo 8 pcs Spring Roll 2 ords Canton Noodles Spicy Chaofan Salo 2 ords Buchi Lotus 4 Lemon Ice Tea - 148 GROUP MEAL 2 (GM 2) QR Oxtail & Tripe in Peanut Sauce
Al Khor Branch (Lulu Mall)
Tel.: 4411- 8816/4411 8817
Sizzling Hot Pot Holiday Villa Hotel Ground Floor Entrance 7
Tel.: 44115225 44115335
4 pcs Fried Chicken Sauce Stir-fry Kangkong with Oyster Spicy Chaofan Salo 4 Leche Flan Solo 4 Lemon Ice Tea - 153 GROUP MEAL 3 (GM 3) QR Whole Chicken Supreme Sour Sauce Crispy Vegetables in Sweet & 2 ords Canton Noodles 4 Steamed Rice istmas Chr otion Prom from s only 2 ords Buchi Lotu Valid /2012 to 4 Lemon Ice Tea 23/12 2013 / Title 06/01 mo Pro Christmas Promo
Salwa Road (near Ramada Hotel)
Tel.: 4437-1212
Al Saad St. (before Commercial Bank)
Tel.: 4431-4411
An Associate of Ahmed Hassan Bilal Group 73 QH December 2012.indd 73
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Top 10
FOOD & DINING
Holiday Feasts The festive season means spending time with friends and family and enjoying the warmth and comfort of a good meal together. We’ve got the round-up of the top ten best festive food and dining events to take the stress of cooking that 15-pound turkey off your shoulders. Sit down, tuck in and have a very merry Christmas!
Roast turkey with
rosemary rub
1
THE ST. REGIS DOHA
Christmas Eve Gala Dinner Hotel Lobby. Enjoy world-class jazz music by the Sherman Irby Quintet from Jazz at Lincoln Center Doha while savouring a 5-course festive menu. Santa will also surprise younger guests with gifts. QR 390 including soft drinks, QR 490 including bubbly and vino. 7:00 p.m. till 12:00 a.m. For more information call 4446-0105.
2
MÖVENPICK HOTEL DOHA
Christmas Eve Seasons Restaurant. A traditional holiday spread amidst stunning Christmas decorations and jolly tunes. For the little ones, ‘Kids Kingdom’ is transformed for the holiday season with many exciting surprises in store. QR 185 per person and children up to the age of 12 dine free, 12 to 16 years get 50% off. For more information call 4429-1111.
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FOOD & DINING
3
INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA
Christmas Eve Dinner Coral. Make your choice from the extensive Christmas buffet spread of specialties with traditional roast turkey at QR 295. 7:00 p.m. till 12:00 a.m. Mykonos. Experience the best of out Greek festive set menu at QR 225 per person, a la carte is also available. 6:00 p.m. till 12:00 a.m. Paloma, Belgian Café and Fish Market. Special Christmas menus also available. For more information call 4484-4919.
4
GRAND HERITAGE DOHA
Christmas Turkey Takeaway Sun 16–Tues 25: Victoria. Simply pre-book and enjoy a scrumptiously prepared turkey with all the traditional accompaniments such as Brussels sprouts, sage, potatoes and a selection of sauces. QR 550 per turkey. For more information call 4445-5555.
5
SHARQ VILLAGE & SPA
Christmas Eve Dinner Al Dana. Celebrate at this spectacular beach-front location with a sumptuous five-course menu. QR 320 per peson, including a welcome glass of sparkling vino. 6:30 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. Al Liwan. Family and friends enjoy a magical night before Christmas with a grand celebration buffet spread. QR 250. 7:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. Parisa. Persian food lovers will savour the cooking of Chef Moghadam, whose cuisine is a contemporary interpretation of the great Persian classics. QR 280. 6:30 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4425-6666.
d tarts
Christmas custar
7
ORYX ROTANA
Seasonal Supper Choices. Experience a leisurely brunch-styled buffet at this Christmas Eve extravaganza. The restaurant will be transformed with sparkling lights, trees and beautifully decorated tables offering a sumptuous buffet, music from a live band, plus a visit from Santa who will hand out a gift to every child. QR 219 per person and QR 300 including house beverages. For more information call 4402-3333.
8
WEST END, RENAISSANCE DOHA CITY CENTER
Christmas Brunch Cucina. In a warm, open atmosphere, enjoy a market-style brunch. 12:00 p.m. till 3:30 p.m. Ipanema. Enjoy Ipanema’s Brazilian band, Tocandira, alongside styles of meat and seafood served to your table by Passadores. 12:00 p.m. till 3:30 p.m.
New York Steakhouse. Book for a refined and relaxing Christmas lunch with the most decadent menu and Renaissance’s supreme service. Crossroads. An international buffet with Santa, candy and a special buffet just for children, to please the entire family. 12:00 p.m. till 3:30 p.m. For more information call 4419-6100.
6
Decadent rack
9
of lamb
W DOHA
Festive Christmas Brunch Market by Jean-Georges. Festive brunch with Christmas turkey, festive desserts, decorations and festive tunes by Doha Jazz. QR 370 per person. White Party Wet Deck by Wahm. Good tunes and BBQ. Come dressed in white and get a free welcome drink. QR 120 per person. Ladies get three free drinks. 10:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. Festive Christmas Brunch Spice Market. South East Asian buffet with delicious Xmas delights and festive Sseason decorations together with Xmas tunes by Doha Jazz. QR 370 per person. For more information, call 4453-5373 or 4453-5135.
10
FOUR SEASONS DOHA
New Year’s Day Brunch Nusantao: Sea Kitchens. Get the New Year off on the right start with a delectable New Year’s Day brunch buffet. Little ones will be delightfully entertained with a bouncy castle, face painting and balloon twisting while the adults enjoy the feast. 12:00 p.m. till 4:00 p.m. QR 380 per person, QR 460 with bubbly, QR 190 Kids Buffet (between 5-12 years old). For more information call 4494-8601.
RITZ-CARLTON DOHA
Christmas Eve Dinner The Lagoon. Enjoy some lovely moments with a selection of mouthwatering dishes specially prepared by the culinary team led by Chef Mourhaf. 6:30 p.m. till 11:30 p.m. QR 240 per person including soft beverages, QR 315 including bubbly. For more information call 4484-8000.
Want more holiday Food and Dining fun? Check out our full line-up of Christmas and New Year’s listings starting on page 78.
Traditional Christmas
pudding 75
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SPOTLIGHT ON FOOD & DINING
Festively Sweet By Gerald Tan Photography by Jessie Palanca
Deck the halls with all things sugar this holiday season as foodie Gerald whips up some tooth-tingling almond brittle. reads the
gerly sp Gerald gin
brittle
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SPOTLIGHT ON FOOD & DINING
S
ukkar. Azucar. Zucchero. Sugar. No matter what how you say it, sounds like a symphony to the ears. There’s something lyrical, expressively onomatopoeic about the word itself, and it appears to transcend languages. At the risk of being too garrulous about sugar etymology, suffice it to say, I am a devotee. Sugar conjures in me visions of technicolour candy stores… silver trays of cupcakes crowned with buttercream swirls… 101 gelato flavours. Oh, and Willy Wonka’s chocolate factory. Indeed, I have a sweet tooth. And, evidently, I am dessert-obsessed. But consider the culinary universe without sugar. Dismal, wouldn’t you say?
KINDS OF SUGAR
The human addiction to sugar has given rise to many forms of the pleasure-inducing substance. The common, all-purpose white sugar comes mostly from the juice of sugarcane and sugar beets. During the refining process, naturally occurring molasses is extracted and the remaining juice crystallized into the form we sprinkle over pie and stir into our coffee. (Brown sugar, interestingly, is manufactured by adding back molasses to white sugar.)
Getting every last molten drop very heart, sugar is dissolved with water and boiled to the cusp of caramelization. Roasted nuts are stirred in, and the entire mixture is quickly spread onto a tray until its cools to become a dangerously addictive candy.
TIPS AND TRICKS
There’s only one real trick here and that’s getting the sugar temperature right. I cannot over emphasize the utility of a candy (or meat) thermometer. It gives you a precise reading, and precision is vital. Alternatively, you could do a water test. This involves dropping some of the molten syrup into a bowl of cold water and feeling its consistency. If the result is brittle threads of sugar that break when pressure is applied, then you’ve achieved hard crack!
“This is an easy confectionary to make before the holiday season kicks into full swing.” This is an easy confectionary
Most dessert recipes for the home kitchen include one or the other as a base. The main thing to know is that adding brown sugar yields a deeper flavour that’s traced back to the molasses. But ultimately, white sugar is more versatile (and compliant) because it does not contain moisture. Now, as it is December -- a month I associate with indulgence -- I’m featuring a recipe that’s all about sugar. This is a variation of a childhood candy: peanut brittle. Exactly the same method, only I’m substituting peanuts with almonds because I prefer it: cook’s prerogative. Cashews, hazelnuts and macadamias are all excellent variations. The ease of this recipe might explain why it exists in so many cuisines. At the
The festiv
e end res
ult
DECADENT ALMOND BRITTLE Ingredients: 2 cups sugar ½ cup water 1 teaspoon bicarbonate of soda ½ teaspoon salt 1 tablespoon butter 1 cup almonds, roasted then coarsely chopped *Optional: 1 cup of chocolate chips* Implements: 1 candy thermometer 1 saucepan 1 baking tray lined with greaseproof paper 1 silicon spatula/wooden ladle Instructions: Line a large baking tray with greaseproof paper.
to make before the holiday season kicks into full swing -- just store large batches in an air-tight container. When the unsuspecting guest shows up bearing good tidings, you whip the candy out like a regular domestic genius and watch the plaudits pour in.
Stir sugar and water together in a large saucepan over medium heat until the sugar dissolves. Increase the heat to high and boil without stirring until a candy thermometer registers 148 degrees Celcius (300 degrees Fahrenheit) – the hard crack stage. It should take at least 15-20 minutes to get to this point.
A warning, though, this candy is sweet. And brittle. But it’s worth it. The crunchy, golden almonds encased in a luminescent caramel take on a heavenly, seraphic quality. Oh yes, if sugar is evil, then I have sinned. And I am truly unrepentant.
Using a spatula, quickly stir in baking soda, salt, butter then almonds. Immediately pour the caramel onto the prepared baking sheet, spreading it as thinly as possible with the spatula.
Comments, feedback, tips or Lady Godiva’s not-so-secret recipes gladly welcome. Do share how the almond brittle turns out. I’m on Twitter @GeraldoTan.
If desired, sprinkle chocolate chips over the brittle. Let stand for about five minutes and then spread into a thin layer. Cool candy until hard. Break into bite-sized pieces. 77
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CHRISTMAS AND NEW YEAR’S LISTINGS
RECOMMENDS
KEMPINSKI RESIDENCES & SUITES DOHA Festive Cooking Class Sun 9: Sky Villa. Meet the new Executive Chef Mike Scheumann and let him guide you through a 3-course festive set menu, then take home his secret recipe and the ingredients of the dessert. QR 225. For more information call 4405-3325.
RITZ-CARLTON DOHA Christmas Tree Lighting
Mon 10: Lobby. Hot chocolate, Christmas cookies, hot vino and more are to be enjoyed as Santa turns the lights on the Christmas tree. Christmas carols from the choir set the scene for the perfect day out with your family! 6:00 p.m. For more information call 4484-8000.
THE ST. REGIS DOHA Tree Lighting Ceremony
Sat 1: Hotel Lobby. Their first tree lighting celebration with songs from the Katara Music School Choir as well as festive canapés and drinks. 6:00 p.m. For more information call 4446-0105.
ONE OF A KIND SHARQ VILLAGE & SPA Chistmas Tree Lighting & Carols Sat 1: The Lobby. Sip hot chocolate with Christmas cookies, as the festive lights are switched on to the accompaniment of traditional carols. Santa will make his first appearance of the season. 5:30 p.m. till 7:00 p.m. Christmas carols will also be sung from Fri 21–Mon 24 at 4:00 p.m. For more information call 4425-6666.
RITZ-CARLTON DOHA Gingerbread House Opening
Tues 4: The Lagoon. Step into the gingerbread house for delectable Christmas goodies! The opening day will mark the arrival in Doha of Santa for photo-taking opportunities of your family. For more information call 4484-8000.
KEMPINSKI RESIDENCES & SUITES DOHA Christmas Tree Lighting & Gingerbread Village Fri 7: Lobby. Christmas sounds, hot chocolate and cookies around a big Christmas tree and new Chief Baker Jurri invites you to see the impressive gingerbread village in the middle of Gourmet House. 5:30 p.m. For more information call 4405-3333.
KEMPINSKI RESIDENCES & SUITES DOHA Christmas Afternoon Tea With Santa Fri 7, 14, 21 & Sat 8, 15, 22: Sky Villa. While parents enjoy their afternoon tea buffet overlooking Doha, children can take a complimentary picture with Santa and decorate gingerbread cookies with the Chief Baker Jurri in the special mini-corner. QR 145. For more information call 4405-3325.
GRAND HYATT DOHA Christmas Party
Sat 15: Biscotti. Enjoy a free one-hour concert of traditional Christmas carols, the perfect way to start Christmas Eve. Santa Claus himself comes down the chimney. 12:00 p.m. till 4:00 p.m. For more information call 4448-1240.
RITZ-CARLTON DOHA Christmas Cooking Class
Sat 15: Porcini. Be ready to host a Christmas brunch or dinner of your own as Chef Ricardo Acquista shares his favourite Christmas recipes followed by a sumptuous lunch. 10:30 a.m. QR 285 per person. For more information call 4484-8000.
SHARQ VILLAGE & SPA Teddy Bear Afternoon Tea
Fri 21- Mon 24: The Lobby Lounge. Enjoy tasty treats with Santa and teddy as they entertain the little ones with Christmas stories. Bring your favourite teddy along for company. Christmas carols at 4:00 p.m. QR 145 per person. 3:00 p.m. till 5:00 p.m. For more information call 4425-6666.
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CHRISTMAS SPOTLIGHT AND NEW ON YEAR’S FOOD &LISTINGS DINING
SHARQ VILLAGE & SPA Gingerbread Decorating Fri 21 & Sat 22: Al Qareb. Children five years and over learn to decorate their very own gingerbread house to take away with them. Price includes finger food and beverages. QR 220 per person. 10:00 a.m. till 12:00 p.m. For more information call 4425-6666.
PROMOTIONS THE ST. REGIS DOHA Winter Wonderland
Sat 1 – Tues 25: Hotel Lobby. Visit our giant gingerbread house and get in the holiday season spirit. A selection of festive goods is available for sale. 11:00 a.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4446-0105.
ORYX ROTANA Christmas Fare Holiday Treats
Sat 1–Mon 31: Sky Lounge. Visit the Christmas Hut and the deli counter for a tempting choice of traditional Christmas delicacies to eat in or take away! For more information call 4402-3333.
RADISSON BLU HOTEL DOHA Turkey To Go Go!
Sat 1–Mon 31: A full turkey with enough trimmings is just what you need to complete your special celebration. Whole roasted turkey with trimmings – QR 580, whole roasted turkey - QR 500. All turkey’s weigh 6-7 kg and will serve approx six people. (Allow 24-hours notice to fulfill your order). For more information call 4428-1555.
HOLIDAY VILLA DOHA Yule Log And Eggnog
Mon 3–Mon 31: Lobby Lounge. Yule log, QR 45 per ½ kg, chocolate or raspberry. Eggnog, QR 18 each. 11:00 a.m. till 11:30 p.m. For more information call 4408-4888.
KEMPINSKI RESIDENCES & SUITES DOHA Christmas Turkey in a Box
Fri 7–Wed 26: Gourmet House. Order a ready-made, warm, mouth-watering roast turkey with signature stuffing, vegetables, potatoes and sauce. QR 950 serving 6-8 persons. Order 48 hours in advance. For more information call 4405-3326.
GRAND HERITAGE DOHA Festive Afternoon Tea Mon 10–Tues 25: Victoria Tea Lounge. Indulge in festive delicacies such as Christmas pudding and gingerbread cookies, in addition to some of the finest selections of tea. QR 155 per person. 3:00 p.m. till 6:00 p.m. For more information call 4445-5555.
MÖVENPICK HOTEL DOHA Christmas On Demand Sun 16–Tues 25: Seasons Restaurant. From whole roasted turkey with all the trimmings to gingerbread and mince pies, sit back and relax, they‘ve got it covered. QR 450 per 6 kg turkey. Book your turkey before Mon, Dec 10 and get 15% off. For more information call 4429-1111.
HOLIDAY VILLA DOHA Take-Away Roasted Turkey
Thurs 20–Mon 31: Lagenda International Restaurant. Free delivery. For more information call 4408-4220.
HOLIDAY VILLA DOHA Yuletide Dinner Set
Thurs 20–Tues 25: D’Chopstix Chinese & Japanese Restaurant. 6:30 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4408-4230.
HOLIDAY VILLA DOHA Christmas Set Menu
Thurs 20–Mon 31: 11th Floor. A delicious meal with a captivating view of Doha. 6:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. (Closed on Saturdays). For more information call 4408-4888.
RITZ-CARLTON DOHA Turkey To Go!
Thurs 2 –Wed 26: The Lagoon. No need to spend hours in the kitchen. Simply order and pick up a complete festive season Turkey dinner to go. QR 1,200. For more information call 4484-8000.
INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA Turkey To Go
Thurs 20–Tues 25: Let the experts cook your turkey and all its trimmings while you sit back and relax, knowing that everything is being taken care of. For more information call 4484-4096 or 4484-4444.
SHARQ VILLAGE & SPA Turkey To Go
Sun 23–Tues 25: Al Liwan. Take a break from your kitchen this Christmas and order a delicious turkey with all the trimmings. Guests are kindly requested to book 24 hours in advance to make sure they have not been all gobbled up. (Serves up to eight people). QR 1,000. For more information call 4425-6666.
ORYX ROTANA Christmas Celebrations
Sun 23–Tues 25: The Cellar. A lavish three-course set menu dinner, featuring some contemporary favourites with a Spanish twist, as well as a three-course set menu lunch on Christmas Day. QR 240 per person food only. For more information call 4402-3333.
CHRISTMAS EVE THE ST. REGIS DOHA Gordon Ramsay Christmas Dinner
Gordon Ramsay Doha. Terrine of Goose Foie Gras, Risotto of Blue Lobster, wild sea bass and venison – enjoy a true fine dining experience with a 5-course menu designed by Michelin-starred chef Gilles Bosquet. QR 825 including soft drinks, QR 990 including paired vinos. 6:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m.
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CHRISTMAS AND NEW YEAR’S LISTINGS
RECOMMENDS
FOUR SEASONS DOHA Traditional Christmas Buffet
Il Teatro. An indulgent festive occasion featuring traditional dishes, live cooking stations and roast turkey with all of the trimmings and Santa Claus bringing gifts. 7:00 p.m. till 11:30 p.m. QR 360 per person, QR 180 kids buffet (between 5-12 years old). For more information call 4494-8601.
LA CIGALE Christmas Eve ORYX ROTANA Winter Wonderland Brunch
Tues 25: Choices. The restaurant will be transformed with sparkling lights, trees and beautifully decorated tables offering a sumptuous buffet, music from a live band, plus a visit from Santa who will hand out a gift to every child. QR 249 per person and QR 324 including house beverages. For more information call 4402-3333.
CHRISTMAS EVE GRAND HYATT DOHA
For reservations call 4448-1272. Snow Balls Party Dunes. Put on your little black dress, get comfortable and sit back and enjoy the sensational Miss Avis Ellis and talented Juan Pestana performing live. For more information call 4448-1280. Christmas Evening The Grill. A formal, sit down banquet fit for Santa Claus and his elves, complete with decadent festive touches and flawless service. Set Menu: QR 250 food only, QR 350 food and vino, QR 125 children. For more information call 4448-1240. Rocca Christmas Packages Rocca. Celebrate the festive season with a stylish party at Rocca, our sophisticated poolside eatery, cocktail bar and lounge. If you want to dance, resident DJ Santiago Vitorelli will provide the soundtracks. QR 220 for three courses.
DOHA MARRIOTT HOTEL Christmas Eve Celebrations Corniche, JW Steakhouse and Restaurant Gallery. Mouthwatering Christmas cuisine from around the world, breathtaking decorations and your favourite Christmas carols await you. 6:00 p.m. till 11:30 p.m. For more information call 4429-8499.
CROWNE PLAZA DOHA Christmas Dinner
Aramede. Traditional festive cuisines from around the world with Christmas tunes for a happy gathering with the family. QR 170 per person. For more information call 4408-7777.
KEMPINSKI RESIDENCES & SUITES DOHA Christmas Eve The Lounge. Try the special Christmas cocktails in the distinctive ambiance of the place to be in Doha. Feel like going out earlier? From 5:00 p.m. till 7:00 p.m. go to MIX & FUSE and benefit from a 50% discount on selected drinks and food items. Free entrance. 5:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. For more information call 4405-3325.
For reservations call 4428-8665. Le Cigalon. A wide spread of international culinary pleasures including turkey and Christmas log on the dinner and brunch buffet. Le Central. A delightful Mediterranean 4-course set menu for dinner and lunch. Di Capri. A lavish Italian 4-course set menu for dinner and lunch.
W DOHA
Christmas Eve Market by Jean-Georges. Special Christmas 4-course set menu. QR 250 per person. Entertainment by Doha Jazz. 6:00 p.m. till 11.30 p.m. For more information call 4453-5373 or 4453-5135. Secret Santa Wet Deck by Wahm. Buy a gift for approximately QR 100 and place it under the Christmas Tree and get one in return, (gifts will be opened at 10:00 p.m.) Best festive outfit gets a gift from Wahm. DJ Bruno Rocharte will be spinning the decks. Festive BBQ from 8:00 p.m.–10:00 p.m. QR 120 per person.
CHRISTMAS DAY GRAND HERITAGE DOHA Christmas Day Brunch
Blue. Celebrate with loved ones with a delicious selection of seasonal dishes while being entertained by the Latino band. 12:30 p.m. till 4:00 p.m. QR 195 per person. For more information call 4445-5555.
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CHRISTMAS AND NEW YEAR’S LISTINGS
THE ST. REGIS DOHA
For reservations call 4446-0105. Opal Brunch With Festive Favourites Opal by Gordon Ramsay. The first a la carte brunch in Doha! Enjoy the true British brunch experience. QR 325 including soft drinks or QR 425 with a selection of beverages. 12:30 p.m. till 4:00 p.m. Christmas Family Brunch Vine Restaurant. An extensive brunch of festive delights on the Vine terrace, including a surprise gift for our younger guests! QR 325 including soft drinks or QR 425 with a selection of beverages. 12:30 p.m. till 4:00 p.m. Christmas Afternoon Tea Sarab Lounge. With punch and festive cakes and a live station of chocolate fondant QR 168. 2:00 p.m. till 6:00 p.m.
GRAND HYATT DOHA Christmas Day Brunch
The Grill. Enjoy traditional Christmas dishes, fresh seafood and a dazzling array of colourful deserts prepared by Chef Christian. Be entertained by Miss Avis Ellis and Juan Pestana singing live Christmasthemed songs and carols. QR 300 including soft beverages, QR 450 including selected house beverages, QR 150 per child. For more information call 4448-1240.
HOLIDAY VILLA DOHA Christmas Day Hi Tea
Lagenda International Restaurant. Pay for three and one person goes free. 12:00 p.m. till 4:00 p.m. For more information call 4408-4220.
DOHA MARRIOTT HOTEL Christmas Day Brunch Restaurant Gallery. Marriott choir performance from 1:00 p.m. till 2:00 p.m. QR 299 per person, QR 389 including bubbly. 12:00 p.m. till 3:00 p.m. For more information call 4429-8499.
MÖVENPICK HOTEL DOHA Christmas Day Seasons Restaurant. Feel the joy of Christmas and indulge in a feast of holiday favourites with live festive entertainment and special activities for kids. QR 265 per person and children up to the age of 12 dine free, 12 to 16 years get 50% off. For more information call 4429-1111.
CROWNE PLAZA DOHA Christmas Lunch
Aramede. Santa Claus will pass by, bringing you exceptional kids entertainment, gingerbread houses and Christmas carols to enjoy with a Christmas brunch starting at QR 225 per person. For more information call 4408-7777.
INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA Christmas Day Coral. Famous traditional Christmas Brunch with a wide variety of dishes and live cooking stations, kids’ activities and live entertainment. QR 345 including a glass of bubbly. 12:30 p.m. till 3:30 p.m. Mykonos. Treat yourself to the special Christmas Brunch at QR 250 per person, with live entertainment by popular Bouzouki Band. 12:30 p.m. Belgian Café and Fish Market. Special Christmas menu also available for dinner only. For more information call 4484-4919.
SHARQ VILLAGE & SPA
For reservations call 4425-6666. Christmas Day Brunch Al Dana. While adults are spoiled for choice with a menu of freshly-caught seafood and traditional favourites, children can scamper off to the play-room for movies, treats and a visit from Santa. The choir sings Christmas carols at 2:00 p.m. QR 360 including soft drinks or QR 490 including house beverages. 12:00 p.m. till 4:00 p.m. Al Liwan. A fun-filled brunch with a decadent buffet by Chef Ali Hadla. For kids, brunch promises an afternoon of treats in Al Qareb, with games and activities such as face painting, balloon-making and a bouncy castle. The choir sings Christmas carols at 1:00 p.m. QR 320 including soft drinks or QR 470 including house beverages. 12:00 p.m. till 4:00 p.m.
RITZ-CARLTON DOHA
For reservations call 4484-8000. Christmas Brunch The Lagoon or Al Wosail Ballroom. Rejoice the moment with an extravagant brunch filled with numerous and fun activities for children. 12:00 p.m. till 4:00 p.m. QR 260 including soft beverages, QR 325 including bubbly. Christmas Dinner Porcini. Pamper your tastes in the cozy and warm setting of a Mediterranean ambiance as Chef Ricardo and his team prepare a special set menu to enlighten your extraordinary night. 7:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. QR 575 per person. La Mer. Celebrate Christmas overlooking the beautiful panorama of Doha’s skyline. Great cuisine, breathtaking views and good companionship. 7:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. QR 650 per person for 6-course set menu.
KEMPINSKI RESIDENCES & SUITES DOHA Christmas Brunch Buffet With Santa Sky Villa. Celebrate on the 61st floor overlooking the skyline of Doha, with a luscious brunch buffet topped with a minicorner for the younger guests. Santa will be there to say “Hi” and take pictures with everyone! QR 295 with soft beverages, QR 425 with welcome bubbly, house vino and soft beverages, 11:00 a.m. till 3:30 p.m. For more information call 4405-3325.
FOUR SEASONS DOHA Christmas Day Brunch
Nusantao: Sea Kitchens. Enjoy a fabulous celebration of festive food and fun with family and friends at the most extensive buffet in town. Our little guests will adore the special Christmas activities, with face painting, bouncing castle, magic show, balloon twisting and a visit from Santa himself. 12:00 p.m. till 5:00 p.m. QR 485 per person, QR 565 with bubbly, QR 243 Kids Buffet (between 5-12 years old). For more information call 4494-8601.
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CHRISTMAS AND NEW YEAR’S LISTINGS
LA CIGALE Christmas Day
For reservations call 4428-8665. Le Cigalon. A wide spread of culinary International pleasures including turkey and Christmas log on the dinner and brunch buffet. Le Central. A Mediterranean 4-course set menu for dinner and lunch. Di Capri. A lavish Italian 4-course set menu for dinner and lunch.
NEW YEAR’S EVE THE ST. REGIS DOHA
For reservations call 4446-0105 Grand Buffet Vine Restaurant. Enjoy an extensive array of festive delicacies with the grand New Year’s Eve buffet. QR 395 per person including a glass of bubbly. 7:00 p.m. till 12:00 a.m. Gordon Ramsay Dinner Gordon Ramsay Doha. King Crab, Scallops, Raviolo of Foie Gras, roasted blue lobster and more – enjoy a true fine dining experience with a 6-course menu designed by Michelin-starred chef Gilles Bosquet. QR 850 or QR 1,050 with selected vinos. 7:00 p.m. till 10:30 p.m. Gala Dinner Party Grand Ballroom. Warm-up to the Oriental beat of DJ Said Mrad and to the moves of Lebanese dancer Vanessa before ringing in the new year to the sound of superstar Nawal Zoghbi and her band. QR 950 including a 3-course Gala Dinner and a welcome drink. Starts at 9:00 p.m. Astor Grill Dinner Astor Grill. Indulge with a 5-course tasting menu designed by Chef Rudy. QR 590 including a 5-course menu, QR 790 paired with beverages. 7:00 p.m. till 12:00 a.m. Opal Dinner Opal by Gordon Ramsay. Get in the mood for a very jovial celebration at midnight with an exclusive selection of six whites and six reds. Family-style dining with a selection of starters, main courses and desserts. QR 390. 7:00 p.m. till 12:00 a.m.
GRAND HYATT DOHA
For reservations call 4448-1240. New Year’s at Dunes Dunes. Las Vegas singer Miss Avis Ellis blends the music of Rihanna, Beyonce, Katy Perry, Nicky Minaj and Motown with the Brazilian tunes and Samba rhythms of Portuguese keyboard player Juan Pestana and dance the night away. QR 200 entrance including party props, welcome drink and bubbly at midnight - reservation required. All guests dining at Grand Hyatt Doha on New Year’s Eve are granted free entrance to Dunes during count-down. New Year’s at Isaan Isaan. A decadent all you can eat concept courtesy of Chef Naphapak, complete with free pour of bubbly and traditional Thai lanterns released at midnight. QR 300 with soft beverages, QR 450 with all inclusive special beverages, children QR 150. New Year’s at Grill The Grill. Live entertainment act and set menu: QR 300 with soft beverages, QR 450 with all inclusive special beverages, children QR 150.
HOLIDAY VILLA DOHA
Buffet Dinner and BBQ Lagenda International Restaurant. Pay for three and one person goes free. 7:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4408-4220. New Year Set Special D’Chopstix Chinese & Japanese Restaurant. 6:30 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4408-4230.
DOHA MARRIOTT HOTEL
New Year’s Eve Celebrations JW Steakhouse and Restaurant Gallery. Buffet in Restaurant Gallery, QR 355 per person, QR 455 including bubbly. Set menu dinner in JW’s Steakhouse, QR 595 per person. 8:00 p.m. till late. For more information call 4429-8499. Silver Night Pearl Lounge. An extravagant affair full of glitz and glamour. Dance the night away to your favourite tunes of the past and the hits of tomorrow by DJ Joe Mitri. 9:00 p.m. till late. For more information call 4429-8444.
GRAND HERITAGE DOHA Bring In The New Year Blue. Enjoy a four-course set menu or the a la carte menu and indulge in a cosmopolitan blend of cuisines while being serenaded by live entertainment. QR 350 per person inclusive one bottle of sparkling beverage. 6:30 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. For more information call 4445-5555.
MÖVENPICK HOTEL DOHA New Year’s Eve Jazz Up. Dance the night away with the sizzling beats of DJ Febz at the J, celebrate amidst glitz and glamour. QR 50 per person including a welcome drink. For more information call 4429-1111.
CROWNE PLAZA DOHA New Year’s Eve
Aramede. Celebrate the countdown with an exceptional live band accompanying the live cooking stations starting at QR 290. For more information call 4408-7777.
INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA For reservations call 4484-4919. New Year’s Eve Coral. Take a journey on the famous Silk Road. QR 395 including a glass of bubbly. 7:00 p.m. till 12:00 a.m. Paloma. . QR 395 per person with a special Mojito and rock the night away with the Smart Casuals Band followed by DJ Shadi. Entrance only to the party after 11:00 p.m. QR 150 and ladies entrance fee QR 50. Mykonos. Count down to the New Year in a true Mediterranean style. QR 395 per person including a glass of bubbly and live entertainment by the Greek Bouzouki band. Belgian Café. This amazing piece of Europe in the heart of Doha offers you a delicious celebratory a la carte menu. Entrance for bar QR 150 per person including one drink and selective Babas (Belgian snacks). Fish Market. Try the 4-course set menu specially prepared by our international expert chefs. QR 450 per person including a glass of bubbly. Lava. Count down to the New Year the way New Yorkers do. Entrance QR 150 including a glass of bubbly. From 10:00 p.m.
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CHRISTMAS AND NEW YEAR’S LISTINGS
SHARQ VILLAGE & SPA
ORYX ROTANA
W DOHA
MERWEBHOTEL CENTRAL DOHA New Year’s Eve
LA CIGALE
NEW YEAR’S DAY
For reservations call 4425-6666. New Year’s Eve Dinner Al Dana. A lavish five-course menu awaits you on the last day of the year, followed by lively beats spun by their DJ. QR 440 including a glass of sparkling vino. 6:30 p.m. till 12:00 a.m. Parisa. Diners will enjoy a delightful family menu featuring Persian delicacies created by Chef Moghadam and gain complimentary access to the New Year’s celebrations at Al Dana Terrace. QR 390. 6:30 p.m. till 12:00 p.m. The Cigar Lounge. Pass the canapés and pop crackers as this haven of style counts down the last minutes of the year. QR 85 including a welcome drink. 9:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. Al Liwan. For guests who enjoy an Oriental atmosphere, Al Liwan offers a magnificent overnight feast of cuisines from around the world. The price includes a sumptuous buffet, soft drinks, pop crackers and the New Year’s countdown. QR 320. 7:30 p.m. till 12:00 p.m.
M Lounge. International DJ. Commercial and funky house music. Free membership for ladies. For more information call 4409-4444 or email doh.cen.sales@merweb.com.
RITZ-CARLTON DOHA
For reservations call 4484-8000. New Year’s Eve Dinner Porcini and Habanos. Let’s welcome 2013 in style and with a great gastronomic 6-course adventure. Diners have access to Habanos for the New Year’s countdown. 8:00 p.m. QR 620 per person, excluding beverages. La Mer and Habanos.Let’s welcome 2013 in style and with a great gastronomic adventure. Diners have access to Habanos for the New Year’s countdown. 7:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. QR 750 per person for a 6-course set menu. The Lagoon. International menu. 6:30 p.m. till 12:00 a.m. QR 240 per person, QR 315 including bubbly. Kids under the age of four dine for free. QR 120 for kids aged 4 -12 years old.
For reservations call 4402-3333. New Year’s Party Choices. Indulge in a sumptuous banquet and groove to the sounds of the resident DJ on the mezzanine before rounding off a fantastic evening at the after-party at Jade Private Club. From 8:00 p.m. QR 490 including dinner and house beverages till 12:15 a.m. The Cellar. Enjoy the authentic tastes of Spain with dishes from the delicious Navidad tapas set menu and welcome in the New Year with live salsa and Latin music from the guitarist with his live sessions throughout the night. QR 390 includes the set menu, plus a welcome drink. Sky Lounge. A gourmet buffet and live piano performances from 6:00 p.m. till 9:30 p.m, followed by music from the resident DJ on the mezzanine. QR 299 for buffet including water, soft drinks and juices. Al Nafourah. Gourmet buffet dinner from 8:00 p.m. QR 199 for buffet including water, soft drinks and juices.
For reservations call 4428-8665. New Year’s Eve Le Cigalon. Renowned extravagant dinner and brunch buffet. Le Central. A spectacular 4-course set menu dinner amidst live entertainment and DJ. Di Capri. Exuberant 4-course set menu with live entertainment and DJ. Sky View. A party-mix with the VJ/DJ Tony Shweiry that will carry you far away. QR 200 including one glass of sparkling vino and canapés. (Rules and regulations apply). Madison Piano Bar. A special musical program accompanied by the resident one-man show ‘Chadi El Basha’. QR 450 including an extended food selection and one glass of sparkling vino. (Membership required).
For reservations call 4453-5373 or 4453-5135. New Year’s Eve Crystal. World famous DJ Sacha Muki and the special LED violinist Pasha performing live with DJ Greg. QR 200 entrance fee not including membership. For more information call 4453-5373 or 4453-5135. New Year’s Eve Dinner Market by Jean-Georges. A 4-course New Year’s Eve set menu, decorations and the best party mood in town. Entertainment from Rick Guard and Phil Rice from 9:00 p.m. till 1:00 a.m. QR 395 per person. Spice Market. All-time favorite Dr. Gabs, the master of Swing, Jazz and Boogie Woogie teams up with Tamsin Steward and Doha Jazz to deliver a show like never before. A set menu served familystyle offers such a variety of flavours that everyone will enjoy. QR 650 including selected beverages. Great Room. 4-course Gala Dinner including selected beverages. Live performance by Festive Mibely, a 14-piece band performing all your favourites.
DOHA MARRIOTT HOTEL New Year’s Day Brunch
Restaurant Gallery. Buffet in Restaurant Gallery, QR 245 per person, QR 350 including bubbly. 12:00 p.m. till 3:00 p.m. For more information call 4429-8499.
MÖVENPICK HOTEL DOHA New Year’s Day Brunch Seasons Restaurant. Chill out on the first day of a whole new year and enjoy a satisfying meal for QR 265 per person. For more information call 4429-1111.
W DOHA New Year’s Day Brunch
Spice Market. Asian street food meets slick city chic at the New Year’s Day Spice Market Brunch, with a backdrop of live, upbeat swing music courtesy of Doha Jazz. QR 340 including adult beverages.
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CHRISTMAS AND NEW YEAR’S LISTINGS
GRAND HYATT DOHA King’s Banquet Brunch
The Grill. Enjoy the largest selection of cuisine and dishes in the city and a dazzling array of colourful desserts prepared by Chef Christian. Be entertained by DJ Santiago Vitorelli playing upbeat tunes to start your year with good energy. QR 250 per person including soft beverages. QR 395 for all inclusive special beverages brunch, special price for children at QR 125. For more information call 4448-1240.
WEST END, RENAISSANCE DOHA CITY CENTER
For reservations call 4419-6100. New Year Brunch Cucina. Welcome in the New Year with a market-style brunch. 12:00 p.m. till 3:30 p.m. Ipanema. Enjoy Ipanema’s Brazilian band, Tocandira, alongside styles of meat and seafood served to your table by their Passadores. 12:00 p.m. till 3:30 p.m. Crossroads. A favourite with locals and visitors alike. 12:00 p.m. till 3:30 p.m.
ORYX ROTANA New Year’s Day Brunch
Choices. The laid-back brunch features a variety of breakfast treats, plus a carving station, hot and cold dishes, desserts and more. QR 210 per person. For more information call 4402-3333.
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FOOD & DINING LISTINGS
RECOMMENDS
WEST END, RENAISSANCE DOHA CITY CENTER
Sundays-Thursdays: Cucina. Choose from 6 entrees, 6 mains and 5 desserts. QR 85 per person. 12:00 p.m. till 3:00 p.m. For more information call 4419-6100.
INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA
Sundays-Thursdays: Mykonos. A choice of a starter, main course and dessert, ready to be enjoyed both in the tempting outdoor terrace overlooking the gardens and the pool or the indoor cozy lounge area. From QR 90, 12:00 p.m. till 3:30 p.m. For more information call 4484-4096 or 4484-4444.
SHERATON DOHA
Sundays–Thursday: La Veranda. Italian homemade delights. Three-course lunch served within 45 minutes, QR 99. From 12:00 p.m. till 2:30 p.m. For more information call 4485-4071.
BUSINESS LUNCH THE ST. REGIS DOHA NEW
Sundays-Thursdays: Gordon Ramsay Doha. Enjoy a different 3-course meal everyday. QR 100 per person. 12:00 p.m. till 4:00 p.m. For more information call 4446-0105.
FOUR SEASONS DOHA
Saturdays-Thursdays: Nusantao. New Bento Business Lunch - four delicacies, plus soup, plus an appetizer for only QR 130. For more information call 4494-8601.
HILTON DOHA
Sundays–Thursdays: La Sahtaine. Enjoy a 3-course meal overlooking the waterfront for QR 88. 12:00 p.m. till 3:00 p.m. For more information call 4423-3333.
GRAND HERITAGE DOHA Daily: Blue Restaurant. Three-course set menu for QR 95. Guaranteed to be served in 30 minutes. 12:30 p.m. till 3:00 p.m. For more information call 4445-5555.
HOLIDAY VILLA DOHA
Sundays-Thursdays: D’Chopstix Chinese & Japanese Restaurant. Choose from over 20 delicious Chinese & Japanese sets. 11:30 a.m. till 3:00 p.m. For more information call 4408-4888.
WYNDHAM GRAND REGENCY DOHA
Tuesdays–Sundays: Chopsticks Restaurant. An exceptional Asian three-course daily changing set menu served in 59 minutes for QR 59 … otherwise, you get it for free! 12:00 p.m. till 3:00 p.m. For more information call 4434-3203 or email sdesilva@wyndham.com.
LA CIGALE
Daily: Le Central. Savour three choices of light and healthy appetizers, expertly designed main dishes and irresistible desserts for QR 150. 12:00 p.m. till 3:00 p.m. For more information call 4428-8772.
HILTON DOHA
Sundays–Thursdays: Trader Vic’s. Choose three main dishes and one side dish for QR 95. Served within 45 minutes. 12:00 p.m. till 3:00 p.m. For more information call 4423-3118.
W DOHA
Saturdays-Thursdays: Market. Choose your starter, main course and dessert and savour chef Vongerichten’s signature dishes in only 30 minutes! 12:00 p.m. till 4:00 p.m. QR 89 per person. For more information call 4453-5373 or 4453-5135.
KEMPINSKI RESIDENCES & SUITES DOHA Saturdays-Thursdays: Aroma. Indulge in the most delicate business lunch in Doha for only QR 90 per person. From 12:00 p.m. till 3:00 p.m. For more information call 4405-3325.
INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA THE CITY
Saturdays–Thursdays: The Square. Three-courses offering a selection of à la carte starters and main courses and right-sized desserts. 12:00 p.m. till 3:00 p.m. QR 88 for 3 courses. For more information call 4015-8888 or email doharestaurants@ihg.com.
W DOHA
Saturdays-Thursdays: Spice Market. Choose your favourite starter, main course and dessert. 12:00 p.m. till 4:00 p.m. QR 89. For more information call 4453-5373 or 4453-5135.
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FOOD & DINING LISTINGS
ORYX ROTANA
Daily: The Cellar. Three-course set menu including a large variety of starters, main dishes and desserts for only QR 89 per person, guaranteed to be served in 60 minutes. For more information call 4402-3333.
AFTERNOON TEA SHARQ VILLAGE & SPA
Daily: Al Jalsa. Low-calorie sweets and healthy treats make an appearance at afternoon tea the Ritz-Carlton style. QR 135 per person. 2:30 p.m. till 5:30 p.m. For more information call 4425-6666.
HILTON DOHA
Daily: Ya Hala. Choose from Classic English High Tea for QR 89, or Classic Oriental High Tea for QR 99. 2:00 p.m. till 5:00 p.m. For more information call 4423-3333.
GRAND HYATT DOHA
Wednesdays & Saturdays: Al Maha Lounge. Whether you prefer the traditional English style, the charming Moroccan, the exotic Thai. Tea, pastries and sweets all included for QR 110. 3:00 p.m. till 6:00 p.m. For more information call 4448-1234.
THE TORCH-DOHA HOTEL Daily: Kufic. Take a break and enjoy finger sandwiches and homemade mini pastries with your choice of tea or coffee for QR 75 per person. 3:00 p.m. till 7:00 p.m. Also enjoy desserts in a cupcake from 8:00 a.m. till 11:00 p.m. Daily: Three Sixty Restaurant. Sunset High Tea, 4:00 p.m. till 5:30 p.m. for QR 135. For more information call: 4444-6500.
GRAND HERITAGE DOHA Sunday -Saturdays: Victoria Lounge. Traditional afternoon high tea or Oriental high tea for QR 135 per tea stand. Afternoon tea from 3:00 p.m. till 6:00 p.m. Gluten-free delights are also available. For more information call 4445-5555.
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FOOD & DINING LISTINGS
INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA THE CITY
Daily: Lobby Lounge. Classic Afternoon Tea QR 80, Oriental Tea QR 85, Contemporary Afternoon Tea QR 95 per person, including selected house beverages. From 3:00 p.m. till 5:00 p.m. For more information call 4015-8888 or email doharestaurants@ihg.com.
INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA
Daily: Tea Garden. Afternoon High Tea from 3:30 p.m. till 6:30 p.m. Selection of finger sandwiches, pastries and free-flowing tea or coffee at QR 85 per person. Live entertainment from 5:00 p.m. till 9:00 p.m. except Saturdays. Open from 7:00 a.m. till 1:00 a.m. For more information call 4484-4890/4484-4444.
RITZ-CARLTON DOHA
Daily: La Mer Restaurant. Taste the culinary treats and delights of Executive Pastry Chef Jerome Bertoumieux with a spectacular view. 2:30 p.m. till 5:00 p.m. The recently opened Lobby Pastry Shop is perfect for quick bites and sweet treats. For more information call 4484-8000.
NEW RESTAURANTS SOUK WAQIF BOUTIQUE HOTELS
The Courtyard: Al Najada Boutique Hotel. An informal café. The Dining Room: Al Najada Boutique Hotel. A fine dining a la carte restaurant. Al Canteen: Arumaila Boutique Hotel. The Terrace Lounge: Al Mirqab Boutique Hotel. Indoor and outdoor lounging space. East: Al Mirqab Boutique Hotel. A casual international bistro. Al Mataam: Musheireb Boutique Hotel. Middle Eastern restaurant. Al Matbakh: Arumaila Boutique Hotel. A grill restaurant on the roof. The Drawing Room: Al Jasra Boutique Hotel. Meet here for drinks. Argan: Al Jasra Boutique Hotel. Moroccan Restaurant. For more information call 4433-6666.
PROMOTIONS HOLIDAY VILLA DOHA Assorted Doughnuts
INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA THE CITY Sushi Night
ONE OF A KIND
Mondays: Strata. Open sushi and sashimi, accompanied by a Japanese traditional beverage and stunning views of West Bay from the 55th and 56th floors. QR 250 including one drink and QR 225 for food only. From 6:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4015-8888 or email doharestaurants@ihg.com.
RITZ-CARLTON DOHA Vino Club Meeting
MILLENNIUM HOTEL Seafood Night
Mon 3–Mon 31: Kafe Olé . 12:00 p.m. till 12:00 a.m. For more information call 4408-4888
Wed 5: La Mer Restaurant. An adventure that will deepen your appreciation for both wines and winemakers. 7:00 p.m. till 9:00 p.m. QR 350 per person. For more information call 4484-8000.
DOHA MARRIOTT HOTEL Qatar National Day
Mondays: Cosmo Restaurant. Stir, sizzle and sauté, seafood flavours not to be missed! QR 180 per person. 7:30 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4424-7361.
SHARQ VILLAGE & SPA Sushi Mania
Tues 18: Restaurant Gallery. The finest Qatari dishes and their variations on a lavish buffet in honour of Qatar’s 41st Independence Day. QR 245 per person. 12:00 p.m. till 3:00 p.m. For more information call 4429-8499.
Mondays and Wednesdays: Al Dana. Finger-sized pieces of fish and shellfish are wrapped around soft sushi rice with a hint of wasabi mustard. QR 135 per person. 6:30 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4425-6666 or email rc.dohsq.reservations@ritzcarlton.com.
EVERY WEEK
MIDDLE EASTERN
SEAFOOD
GRAND HYATT DOHA Moroccan Tagine Night
GRAND HERITAGE DOHA Maki Mania
Sundays-Thursdays: Blue Restaurant. QR 165 per person inclusive of unlimited Maki and Miso soup. 4:00 p.m. till 9:00 p.m. For more information call 4445-5555.
GRAND HYATT DOHA Seafood Festival
Mondays: Isaan Restaurant. Set menu from QR 250 per person from 7:00 p.m till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4448-1234.
Mondays: Rocca Restaurant. Join Chef Kenza form Casablanca for an array of Moroccan Tagine dishes from 6:30 p.m. For more information call 4448-1234.
WYNDHAM GRAND REGENCY DOHA Dinner At Tangia
Mondays - Fridays: Discover the traditional Moroccan cuisine artistically prepared and refreshingly authentic. 7:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. Location: lobby level. For more information call 4434-3687.
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FOOD & DINING LISTINGS
THE TORCH-DOHA HOTEL Turkish Delights Tuesdays: Flying Carpet Restaurant. Enjoy Shawarma, kababs, pide and much more Turkish cuisine for only QR 190 per person. 7:00 p.m. till 10:30 p.m. For more information call 4446-5600.
INTERNATIONAL FOUR SEASONS DOHA A Trip Around The Regions Of Italy
Saturdays-Thursdays: Il Teatro. An eclectic presentation of refined regional Italian cuisine with a contemporary twist. 12:00 p.m. till 3:00 p.m. For more information call 4494-8888.
INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA THE CITY 180@Hive
Saturdays–Wednesdays: Hive. Theme nights accompanied by three glasses for QR 180 per person. Saturday: Greek, Sunday: Italian, Monday: Spanish, Tuesday: Asian, Wednesday: cheese and vino. 7:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4015-8888 or email doharestaurants@ihg.com.
GRAND HERITAGE DOHA Arrive In Style!
Sundays-Saturdays: Blue Restaurant. Book your table 24 hours in advance and receive a complimentary home pick-up and drop off by the hotel’s exclusive Limo service. 12:30 p.m. till 12:00 a.m., QR 250 per person inclusive of one choice of appetizer, main course, dessert and beverage. For more information call 4445-5555.
HILTON DOHA Crazy For Creole
Sundays: Mawasem. Enjoy spectacular authentic Creole and curry dishes from the heart of the islands. QR 190 including unlimited soft drinks. 7:00 p.m. till 10:30 p.m. For more information call 4423-3333.
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FOOD & DINING LISTINGS
RECOMMENDS
INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA ‘Souvlaki Night’ Greek BBQ
Mondays: Mykonos. Eat as much mixed grill as you can. Enjoy a live cooking station with buffet of fresh cold mezzedes & salads complemented with desserts. 6:30 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. QR 165 per person. For more information call 4484-4074 or 4484-4444.
ORYX ROTANA Asian Night THE TORCH-DOHA HOTEL Pan-Latino Night
Wednesdays: Flying Carpet Restaurant. Experience Latino living with a variety of Mexican, Argentinian and Brazilian platters. QR 190 per person, 7:00 p.m. till 10:30 p.m. For more information call 4446-5600.
THE TORCH-DOHA HOTEL Mediterranean Night
SHERATON DOHA Parillada Night
ORYX ROTANA Tex Mex BBQ
MÖVENPICK DOHA HOTEL Matador Mondays
Sundays: Flying Carpet Restaurant. Choose from a selection of plates from different countries. 7:00 p.m. till 10:30 p.m. For more information call 4446-5600.
Sundays: Choices. Enjoy a special beverage deal with the Tex Mex BBQ night! 7:00 p.m. till 11:30 p.m. and for QR 189 per person including water, soft drinks and chilled juices. For more information call 4402-3333.
W DOHA Grill Night
Sundays: Market. Steak connoisseurs and red-meat lovers can savour their prize cuts of tender meat, fowl and seafood. Char-grilled or seared, rare or well done. 6:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4453-5135.
Sundays & Wednesdays: Latino. All you can eat Argentinian parillada served at your table including salad and dessert buffet and live entertainment. QR 190, food only, 7:00 p.m. till 11:30 p.m. For more information call 4485-4071.
Mondays: Seasons Restaurant. Travel the world on a plate. Savour enticing Spanish delights; tapas, paella, live cooking and much more. QR 160 per person. For more information call 4429-1111.
THE TORCH-DOHA HOTEL Barbecue Bazaar Night
Mondays: Flying Carpet Restaurant. Choose from a wide selection of steaks, Oriental BBQ, fish, burgers and hot dogs. QR 190 per person. 7:00 p.m. till 10:30 p.m. For more information call 4446-5600.
Mondays: Choices. Expert Thai, Indonesian and Filipino chefs prepare an exquisite buffet of authentic Far Eastern cuisine for QR 199 per person, including unlimited juices and soft drinks, or QR 279 including unlimited selected house beverages. For more information call 4402-3333.
WYNDHAM GRAND REGENCY DOHA International Buffet
Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays: Grand Gourmet. Italian cuisine Saturdays, Far Eastern cuisine Mondays, Seafood Wednesdays and Arabian cuisine on Fridays. Breakfast from 6:30 a.m. till 10:30 a.m., lunch from 12:30 p.m. till 3:30 p.m. and dinner from 6:30 p.m. till 10:30 p.m. The special Friday family brunch is served between 11:30 a.m. till 3:30 p.m. For more information call 4434-3203 or 4434-3333.
WEST END, RENAISSANCE DOHA CITY CENTER New Dessert Selection
Monday’s–Saturdays: Ipanema. Enjoy the colours, sounds and flavours of Brazil, with traditional picanha, Brazilian kafta and their new flambé dessert bar and buffet. From QR 290 per person. From 6:30 p.m. till 11:30 p.m. For more information call 4419-6100.
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FOOD & DINING LISTINGS
GRAND HYATT DOHA Taste The World
Mondays: The Grill Restaurant. Italian, Seafood, Latin American, Spanish, Chinese, Turkish and much more food from 6:30 p.m. For more information call 4448-1234.
SHERATON DOHA Pasta Night
Tuesdays: La Veranda. All you can eat pasta with one of the best views in town for QR 180. 7:00 p.m. till 10:30 p.m. For more information call 4485-4071.
MÖVENPICK DOHA HOTEL Les Aples Tuesdays
Tuesdays: Seasons Restaurant. Combining the finest delicacies of France, Italy and Switzerland to fashion an exclusive gourmet event. QR 160 per person. From 6:30 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4429-1111.
INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA ‘Ouzeri Night’ Seafood BBQ Tuesdays: Mykonos. Enjoy Greek delicacies while sharing ouzo on ice with friends. 6:30 p.m. till 11:00 p.m., QR 175 per person. For more information call 4484-4074 or 4484-4444.
MÖVENPICK DOHA HOTEL TempAsian Wednesdays
Wednesdays: Seasons Restaurant. Be tempted by authentic ingredients and aromas. Gather around the teppanyaki table, taste the creativity of the Japanese sushi or the tang of the Thai curry. QR 160 per person. From 6:30 p.m. to 11.00 p.m. For more information call 4429-1111.
FOUR SEASONS DOHA Churrasco on the Beach
Wednesdays: The Beach. Gather family and friends for an unforgettable festive experience, as you select your choice of delicious barbeque. 7:00 p.m. till 10:30 p.m. For more information call 4494-8601.
WEEKEND THURSDAY SEAFOOD HILTON DOHA Seafood Extravaganza
Thursdays: Mawasem. QR 225 including unlimited soft drinks. 7:00 p.m. till 10:30 p.m. For more information call 4423-3333.
ORYX ROTANA Steak Night
THE TORCH-DOHA HOTEL Seafood Extravaganza
MILLENNIUM HOTEL Asian Night
MÖVENPICK DOHA HOTEL Deep Blue Thursdays
Tuesdays: Choices. Choose your meat cuts and size and enjoy all the meat you can! QR 219 per person with soft drinks and juices and QR 299 per person with selected house beverages. For more information call 4402-3333.
Wednesdays: Cosmo Restaurant. Travel to the Asian world and savour true flavours from India, China, Vietnam and Japan in an exotic setting. QR 150 per person. 7:30 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4424-7361.
Thursdays: Flying Carpet Restaurant. Find the catch of the day and a selection of seafood for cooking at QR 220 per person. 7:00 p.m. till 10:30 p.m. For more information call 4446-5600.
Thursdays: Seasons Restaurant. A simply spectacular buffet of rich, fresh and succulent seafood and fish. QR 180 per person, from 6:30 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4429-1111.
WEST END, RENAISSANCE DOHA CITY CENTER Seafood Night
Thursdays: Crossroads Kitchen. Enjoy the biggest seafood paella in Doha, alongside tiger prawns, mussels, tuna, oysters and the freshest sushi in town! From QR 225 including soft beverages. 6:30 p.m. till 11:30 p.m. For more information call 4419-6100.
INTERNATIONAL DOHA GOLF CLUB BBQ
Thursdays: Doha Golf Club. QR 99 inclusive of one selected beverage from 6:00 p.m. till 10:00 p.m. For more information call 4496-0777.
THE ST. REGIS DOHA Reggae Barbeque Nights Thursdays, Fridays (& Wednesdays): Oyster Bar. Get into the rhythm of the Caribbean with live Reggae music while enjoying barbeque items around the pool. 7:00 p.m. till 12:00 a.m., QR 190 per person. For more information call 4446-0105.
INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA THE CITY Cosmopolitan Thursdays
Thursdays: The Square. A lively format and diverse menu choices are perfect for an evening with friends. QR 290 per person, including house vinos, house spirits. QR 210 including soft drinks and mocktails. From 6:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4015-8888 or email doharestaurants@ihg.com.
FRIDAY SEAFOOD INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA Seafood BBQ Night
Fridays: Fish Market. Enjoy a Seafood BBQ dinner by the beachfront with live cooking stations. QR 280. 7:00 p.m. till 12:00 a.m. For more information please call 4484-4444 or 4484-4747. 91
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FOOD & DINING LISTINGS
MIDDLE EASTERN MILLENNIUM HOTEL Lebanese Breakfast
Fridays: Cosmo Restaurant. Lebanese tunes and live stations serving healthy food to kick off the day. QR 120 per person. 6:30 a.m. till 10:30 a.m. For more information call 4424-7361.
THE TORCH-DOHA HOTEL Arabian Night Fridays: Flying Carpet Restaurant. Live the charm of the Orient and indulge in a variety of plates from different Arabic cuisines, QR 190 per person. 7:00 p.m. till 10:30 p.m. For more information call 4446-5600.
INTERNATIONAL HILTON DOHA Asian Persuasion
Fridays: Mawasem. Presenting a coloruful array of dishes from the Far East. 7:00 p.m.till 10:30 p.m. QR 190 per person including unlimited soft drinks. For more information call 4423-3333.
KEMPINSKI RESIDENCES & SUITES DOHA A La Carte Friday Lunch Fridays: Aroma. For all those that are tired of buffets! 12:00 p.m. till 3:00 p.m. For more information call 4405-3325.
ORYX ROTANA Indian Flavours
Fridays: Choices. QR 160 per person, including unlimited juices and soft drinks, or QR 240 including unlimited selected house beverages. 7:00 p.m. till 11:30 p.m. For more information call 4402-3333.
MÖVENPICK DOHA HOTEL Curry, Kare, Kari Fridays Fridays: Seasons Restaurant. Get curried away from South-East Asia to the north of India. QR 160 per person. From 6:30 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4429-1111.
DOHA GOLF CLUB Carvery Lunch Buffet
Fridays & Saturdays: Doha Golf Club. QR 115 per person from 11:00 a.m. till 4:00 p.m. For more information call 4496-0777.
SATURDAY SEAFOOD WYNDHAM GRAND REGENCY DOHA Sushi Fiesta
Saturdays: Chopsticks Restaurant. Eat as much you can at the award-winning best restaurant for QR 129 per person, including a glass of sparkling date juice. 6:30 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4434-3203.
GRAND HERITAGE DOHA Sushi And Steak Saturdays: Blue Restaurant. QR 195 per person, for an additional QR 50 select the premium quality of Australian Wagyu beef. 12:30 p.m. till 12:00 a.m. For more information call 4445-5555.
W DOHA Sushi Night
Saturdays: Spice Market. This comprehensive sushi menu featuring assorted sushi, nigiri, maki and sashimi prepared with the secret condiments of three-Michelin star chef, Jean-Georges Vongerichten and his expert team. QR 230 per person. 6:00 p.m. till 10:00 p.m. For more information call 4453-5135.
ORYX ROTANA Sushi & Sashimi Night
Saturdays: Choices. The talented team of chefs serve up the perfect Japanese dining experience. QR 195 per person (food only). For more information call 4402-3333.
INTERNATIONAL RITZ-CARLTON DOHA Saturday Roast
Saturdays: Admiral’s Club. Enjoy the perfect hand-carved selection of roast meats, potatoes, Yorkshire pudding and all the trimmings. 6:00 p.m. till 10:00 p.m. QR 260 per platter – serves two. QR 50 extra you can also eat lobster! For more information call 4484-8663.
THE TORCH-DOHA HOTEL Asian Treasures Saturdays: Flying Carpet Restaurant. Savour sushi, cold seafood station, Wok station, Indian corner, Thai corner. QR 190 per person, 7:00 p.m. till 10:30 p.m. For more information call 4446-5600.
W DOHA Burger Night
Saturdays: Market. The tastiest burgers made just the way you like them. Choose your burger, side dish and a dessert for QR 110. 6:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4453-5135.
ORYX ROTANA Retail Tapas Galore
Saturdays: The Cellar. Endless tapas for QR 150 per person and pay reduced retail prices for selected vino. For more information call 4402-3333.
SHERATON DOHA Ladies Night
Saturdays: Latino. Free drinks for ladies when you order a minimum of two courses from the A La Carte Menu. From 7:00 p.m. till 10:30 p.m. For more information call 4485-4071.
WEEKEND BRUNCH CROWNE PLAZA DOHA
Fridays: Aramede. Enjoy a lavish Arabic and international buffet and live cooking stations and a kids play area starting at QR 205 per person. For more information call 4408-7777.
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FOOD & DINING LISTINGS
THE ST. REGIS DOHA
Fridays: Vine Restaurant. An extensive buffet and live cooking stations. QR 250 including soft drinks and QR 350 including a selection of beverages. 12:30 p.m. till 4:00 p.m. For more information call 4446-0105.
SHERATON DOHA
Fridays: Al Hubara. Enjoy an international buffet with some of the local specialties like Ouzi and Oumali. There is also a kids area with balloons and face painting. 12:00 p.m. till 4:00 p.m., QR 190 per person. For more information call 4485-4071.
W DOHA
Fridays: Spice Market. Asian street food meets slick city chic, to a backdrop of live upbeat swing music courtesy of Doha Jazz. QR 340 including specialty drinks, QR 285 including soft drinks. 12:00 p.m. till 4:00 p.m. For more information call 4453-5373 or 4453-5135.
HOLIDAY VILLA DOHA
Fridays: D’Chopstix Chinese & Japanese Restaurant. Eat as much as you like Dim Sum and Sushi and enjoy a delicious buffet with free-flowing Chinese tea. 11:30 a.m. till 3:00 p.m., QR 138 per adult. For more information call 4408-4230.
WEST END, RENAISSANCE DOHA CITY CENTER
Fridays: Crossroads Kitchen. Offering a fantastic international brunch including a children’s buffet and entertainment zone with face painting, movies and games. QR 225. 12:00 p.m. till 3:30 p.m. For more information call 4419-6100.
WEST END, RENAISSANCE DOHA CITY CENTER
Fridays: Ipanema. Boasting the only authentic Brazilian band in Doha, Ipanema is the place to come for seafood and sizzling meats on skewers, with live entertainment. QR 250 per person including soft beverages and QR 320 including house beverages. 12:30 p.m. till 3:30 p.m. For more information call 4419-6100.
MILLENNIUM HOTEL
Fridays: Cosmo Restaurant. International and Oriental cuisines are served in a casual ambiance, with a special kids corner and entertainment. QR 155 per person. 12:30 p.m. till 4:00 p.m. For more information call 4424-7361.
RADISSON BLU HOTEL DOHA
Fridays: Hyde Park Coffee Shop. Let the team of chefs tempt you with fresh seafood, sushi, Chinese, Indian and European specialties. 12:00 p.m. till 3:00 p.m., QR 190 with sparkling vino or QR 140 with soft drinks. For more information call 4428-1555.
ORYX ROTANA
Fridays: Choices. The brunch offers a wide variety of food and beverages with live jazz music. QR 249 per person, including unlimited juices and soft drinks, or QR 324 per person, including unlimited selected house beverages. 12:30 p.m. till 4:00 p.m. For more information call 4402-3333.
MÖVENPICK HOTEL DOHA
Fridays: Seasons Restaurant. Indulge in an elegant yet casual experience with freeflowing bubbly and enchanting music to complement the tasty buffet. Every Friday features an entirely new theme to amuse the little ones. The ‘parent-free zone’ is fully supervised. Kids get to jump on the bouncy castle, laugh with the clumsy clown and eat from the custom-made kids buffet. QR 215 per person, kids under twelve dine free, from twelve to sixteen, half price. For more information call 4429-1111 or visit www.moevenpick-doha.com.
INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA
Fridays: Fish Market. Indulge in the luxurious buffet and a market display featuring lobster, oyster, tiger prawns and sea bass. QR 320 per person. 12:30 p.m. till 3:30 p.m. For more information call 4484-4484 or 4484-4954.
INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA THE CITY
Fridays: The Square. A host of interactive cooking and beverage stations with an emphasis on fresh, compelling menu options. QR 320 per person, including selected house beverages. QR 210 including soft drinks and mocktails. From 12:00 p.m. till 4:00 p.m. For more information call 4015-8888 or email doharestaurants@ihg.com.
THE TORCH-DOHA HOTEL Fridays: Flying Carpet Restaurant. A seafood extravaganza plus the catch of the day. QR 220 per person including selected beverages. 12:00 p.m. till 3:30 p.m. Special rate for children between 6 and 12. For more information call 4446-5600.
HILTON DOHA
Fridays: Mawasem. An attractive menu is served to live music accompanied by amazing views of the pool and beach. QR 222 per person including unlimited soft drinks, QR 333 per person including unlimited house beverages and bubbly, QR 444 per including French bubbly. Children six and under dine free, 7–12 year olds receive a 50% discount. For more information call 4423-3333.
SHERATON DOHA
Fridays: Al Shaheen. Experience the International buffet with the best views of the city from the roof top level. There’s a kids area with balloons and face painting. QR 190 food only, QR 270 with free-flowing beverages and sparkling vino. From 12:00 p.m. till 4:00 p.m. For more information call 4485-4071.
W DOHA
Fridays: Market. Watch fresh, local products and ingredients come together splendidly in the Mediterranean-inspired show kitchen. QR 340 including specialty drinks, QR 285 including soft drinks. 12:00 p.m. till 4:00 p.m. For more information call 4453-5135.
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Always Designed With You In Mind.. Tel. No: 44 56 87 16 Email: info@ahbqatar.com An associate of Ahmed Hassan Bilal Group INTERIOR DESIGN | WALL FINISHES | WINDOW TREATMENTS | FURNITURES | FLOORS | ACCESSORIES QH December 2012.indd 94
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THIS MONTH'S
TOP PICKS
SPORTS
QATAR BASKETBALL FEDERATION
1st GCC Junior Basketball Championships Sun 2–Fri-7: Aspire Zone Women’s Indoor
QATAR EQUESTRIAN FEDERATION
Qatar International Show Jumping Championships Thurs 20–Sun 23: Federation Venue. For more information call 4481-0417.
Hall. For more information call 4494-4178 or 4494-4171.
QATAR BOWLING ASSOCIATION
12th Qatar Open International Bowling Tournament 2012 Sun 9–Sat 15: Qatar Bowling Center. For more information visit www.qatarbowlingcenter.net.
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QATAR CYCLING FEDERATION
Golden Jersey Cycling Tour Fri 7–Mon 10: This event will take place throughout Doha. For more information call 4447-5522 or 4447-5837.
QATAR HOCKEY FEDERATION
Asian Hockey Championship 2012 Thurs 6 -14: Al Rayyan Sports Club. The tournament will see six top teams from India, Pakistan, Malaysia, South Korea, China and Japan vying for the title. For more information visit www.dohahockeyclub.com. 95
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SPOTLIGHT ON SPORTS g
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TOURNAMENT FORMAT The Singles draw is a knock-out format consisting of 32 players who play daily to move into the next round. Of these 32 players, 25 have a confirmed spot prior to the event, though the decision as to where they are placed in the draw will only be known at the draw ceremony. The selection of these 25 players is based on their current ATP World Tour ranking. Four of the remaining seven spots in the singles draw are decided upon in
the qualifying rounds. These qualifying matches are played on Saturday and Sunday, Dec 29-30, 2012. The final three spots are given to wild-card entrants who are considered to be automatically entered into the main draw. The Doubles draw is also a knock-out format of 16 doubles teams. Ten are secured spots based on the ATP World Tour Doubles Ranking as a team and four spots are provided for teams who pair up on the spot while two spots are reserved for wild-card entries.
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SPOTLIGHT ON SPORTS INSIDE THE KHALIFA INTERNATIONAL TENNIS & SQUASH COMPLEX Inaugurated by H.H. Sheikh Hamad Bin Khalifa Al Thani, the Emir of the State of Qatar, in 1992, the stadium has an initial capacity of 4,500 seats but it was later enlarged in 2008 to seat the current capacity of 7,000 spectators. 2008 also saw additional renovations to the set-up of the venue with the addition of new stands, VIP boxes, Lower, Middle and Upper sections and the VIP Village, Public Village and Food Court. In 2012, two more show courts were added. Currently, the venue has one centre court, four show courts and 20 outside courts. This makes the Khalifa International Tennis & Squash Complex the ideal setting for one of the greatest sporting events
on the world stage. Set-up of the Public Village, VIP Village, Traditional Souq and Kids Zone are now underway and the venue is being transformed into an interactive, entertaining home for tennis and so much more during the first week of the New Year.
THE PUBLIC VILLAGE The Public Village offers fun and entertainment for the entire family. When not on the courtside watching matches, fans can take part in a variety of activities in the Public Village. The Food Court is located to the left of the Public Village where food and beverages can be purchased from top vendors such as Asiana, The Curry House, Sterling Fast Food, Pizza Hut, TCBY, Arbys and Coffee Beanery. To the right of the Public Village are the sponsor booths and the Qatar Tennis Federation merchandise store.
THE EXCLUSIVE VIP VILLAGE The VIP Village provides an opportunity for fans to mingle with players, sponsors and other VIP guests – all in a luxurious and relaxing atmosphere. Guests can enjoy a variety of international cuisine, live stations and beverages, while some of the best lounge DJs in the city provide music throughout the event. Guests can collect their copy of the Official Tournament Program at the VIP Reception Desk, purchase official Qatar Tennis Federation merchandise, strike up a conversation with other VIP guests over espresso at the coffee corner and even meet a tennis star. The Khalifa International Tennis & Squash Complex also provides medical services, restrooms and an information kiosk for all those attending the games.
Crowds pack the stands at Khalifa International Tennis & Squash Complex
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SPOTLIGHT ON SPORTS
Rafael Nadal waves at fans
SCHEDULE OF PLAY MONDAY, DECEMBER 31
1st Match – 3:30 p.m. 2nd Match – 5:30 p.m. (official opening match of tournament) 3rd Match – Followed by 4th Match – Last match of the day
THURSDAY, JANUARY 3
1st Match – 3:30 p.m. 2nd Match – Followed by 3rd Match – Followed by 4th Match – Last match of the day
TUESDAY, JANUARY 1
WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 2
1st Match – 3:30 p.m. 2nd Match – Followed by 3rd Match – Followed by 4th Match – Last match of the day
1st Match – 3:30 p.m. 2nd Match – Followed by 3rd Match – Followed by 4th Match – Last match of the day
FRIDAY, JANUARY 4
SATURDAY, JANUARY 5
Doubles Final – 4:00 p.m. Singles Semi – Followed by Singles Semi – Last match of the day
Singles Final – 5:30 p.m. Followed by trophy presentation
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SPOTLIGHT ON SPORTS
TICKET INFO
TICKET PRICES FOR EXXONMOBIL 2013 TICKETS Uppers
Middles A/C
Middle B
Lowers
Middle B + VIP
Lowers + VIP
Ground Passes
Day One
QR 20
QR 20
QR 75
QR 100
QR 325
QR 350
QR 10
Day Two
QR 20
QR 20
QR 75
QR 100
QR 325
QR 350
QR 10
Day Three
QR 30
QR 30
QR 75
QR 100
QR 325
QR 350
QR 10
Day Four
QR 30
QR 30
QR 150
QR 180
QR 400
QR 430
QR 10
Day Five
QR 45
QR 75
QR 190
QR 225
QR 440
QR 475
QR 10
Day Six
QR 65
QR 90
QR 215
QR 250
QR 465
QR 500
QR 10
• Book online at www.qatartennis.org after Sunday, November 18 • Ticket also on sale at City Center, Landmark, Lagoona Mall and the Khalifa Tennis Complex Also on site: • VIP Village – for VIP guests includes food, beverages, lounge areas and outdoor entertainment • Public Village – includes food court, sponsor booths, Kids Zone, outdoor entertainment • Kids Clinics – held daily at 4:00 p.m. on the outside courts • Autograph Sessions – held daily at 6:00 p.m. in the Public Village
On-site fam
ily fun for
the kids
the Qatar Exxonmobil Open Traffic clogs the streets around the stadium during
A lucky fan hangs low to get an autograph from
Roger Federer
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SPORTS LISTINGS STER REGI INE ONL ekly 5
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QMMF Track Day
Sat 15: Losail International Circuit. Track days are open days where the public can bring their own bike or car and ride on the Qatari track. QR 350 per bike, QR 500 per car. For more information visit www.circuitlosail.com.
ASPIRE Doha Goals Forum
Mon 10–Wed 12: Aspire. The forum is the world’s premier platform for world leaders to create initiatives for global progress through sport. For more information visit www.dohagoals.com.
ONE OF A KIND QATAR CYCLING FEDERATION Cycling Grand Prix
Sat 1–Thurs 6: For more information call 4447-5522 or 4447-5837.
QATAR BASKETBALL FEDERATION 1st GCC Junior Basketball Championships Sun 2–Fri-7: Aspire Zone Women’s Indoor Hall. For more information call 4494-4178 or 4494-4171.
QATAR HOCKEY FEDERATION Asian Hockey Championship 2012
Thurs 6 -14: Al Rayyan Sports Club. The tournament will see six top teams from India, Pakistan, Malaysia, South Korea, China and Japan vying for the title. For more information visit www.dohahockeyclub.com.
QATAR CYCLING FEDERATION Golden Jersey Cycling Tour Fri 7–Mon 10: This event will take place throughout Doha. For more information call 4447-5522 or 4447-5837.
QMMF Qatar National Sprint R5
Fri 7: Losail International Circuit. A sprint is an event for cars where they race in a short oval or circular track for a short distance. For more information call 4437-9884.
QMMF Qatar National Baja R1
Sat 8: The ceremonial start will take place in QMMF. National Baja is an event for cars. For more information call 4437-9884 or email info@qmmf.com.qa.
QATAR BOWLING ASSOCIATION 12th Qatar Open International Bowling Tournament 2012
Sun 9–Sat 15: Qatar Bowling Center. For more information visit www.qatarbowlingcenter.net.
QMMF Qatar International Road Racing Championship – Bikes R1, Cars R1 Fri 21 & Sat 22: Losail International Circuit. It will be the opening round of the 2012 / 2013 season for QIRRCH and QNRRCH. For more information visit www.circuitlosail.com.
QATAR HANDBALL FEDERATION Qatar International Handball Junior Tournament
Wed 26–Sun 30: For more information call 4494-4100.
QMMF Qatar International Enduro –R3
Thurs 27 & Fri 28: Losail International Circuit. Enduro off-road races are designed to test the endurance and off-road riding skills of the rider. Each race will be run over a mix of different types of desert terrain and will last for 30 minutes plus one lap. For more information visit www.circuitlosail.com.
QATAR CYCLING FEDERATION GCC Cycling Tour
Fri 28 –Sun 30: For more information call 4447-5522 or 4447-5837.
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SPORTS LISTINGS
EVERY WEEK DOHA MUMS Couch to 5k Running Program
Mondays & Thursdays: Park next to Sheraton. Babies and pre-schoolers are more than welcome in jogging-type strollers. The workout will last around an hour with cool down and stretching. Starts at 8:15 a.m. For more information visit www.dohamums.com or email rsvp@dohamums.com.
CLASSES INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA Abs Workout Wednesdays and Fridays: The Bay Club. The instructors will concentrate on your exercise technique to work the abdominal muscles from every conceivable angle. Wednesdays at 7:15 p.m., Fridays at 11:15 a.m. Free for members, QR 30 for non-members. For more information call 4484-4852 or email bayclub@icdoha.com.
IAID Aerobics
Saturdays-Thursdays: IAID. Aerobics integrates the modern breakthroughs of Pilates, Zumba and high-intensity interval training. For more information call 4432-0974.
IAID Ballroom Dancing
Saturdays & Sundays: IAID. Ballroom dancing, a refreshing dance choice, takes participants through a set of partner dances enjoyed at social occasions. Get into the rhythm of swing, salsa, jive, tango, rhumba, cha cha and samba, while reaping the benefits of health and fitness. For more information call 4432-0974/6671-0589 or email enquire@iaidonline.org.
INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA Spinning
Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays: The Bay Club. Mondays & Wednesdays 6:15 p.m. Fridays 12:00 p.m. and Saturdays 9:00 a.m. QR 25 for members, QR 35 for non-members. For more information call 4484-4852.
INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA Step AO2 Mondays and Wednesdays: The Bay Club. Step AO2 improves both mental and physical fitness, burning away calories while learning fun routines to the newest music. More suitable for intermediate steppers. Starts at 10:00 a.m. QR 30 for members, QR 40 for non-members. For more information call 4484-4852 or email bayclub@icdoha.com.
MĂ–VENPICK TOWER & SUITES Swimming
Wednesdays–Mondays: Pool. Lessons for all ages. Book 10 sessions and receive two for free. Adults, QR 1,000, Children, QR 900. Advanced booking is required. For more information call 4496-6410.
DANA CLUB DOHA Yoga
Mondays & Wednesdays: Yama Yoga. QR 60 for members and QR 75 for non-members. Mondays, 9:45 a.m. for mixed levels and 7:00 p.m. for pre-natal. Wednesdays, 9:45 a.m. and 7:00 p.m. both for mixed levels. For more information visit www.yamayogastudios.com.
IAID Yoga
Saturdays, Sundays, Mondays & Wednesdays: IAID. Yoga relieves stress and meets overall health and fitness. The course focuses on Hatha Yoga, which paves the way to a holistic yogic path including physical postures, purification procedures, poses, yogic breathing and meditation. For more information call 4432-0974/6671-0589 or email enquire@iaidonline.org.
GARVEYS Yoga
Daily: Yama Yoga. For all levels. For more information call 6617-5802 or visit www.yamayogastudios.com.
ACTIVITIES & CLUBS Bike Riding The Corniche Aspire Park
Bowling
The Qatar Bowling Center 4432-9178 or www.qatarbowlingcenter.net 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
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
Tennis & Squash
Khalifa Tennis & Squash Complex 4440-9666
Walking
Park at Museum of Islamic Art The Corniche The Pearl-Qatar (2.5 km) Aspire Park
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RECOMMENDS
QH SENSATIONS
Ashlee L’Oreal Professionel Delicate Colour Shampoo
I recently became a red-head and am loving every second of the feisty, fiery, Florence Welch-inspired shade. My only complaint is that with such a strong, bold colour it tends to fade quite quickly, even though I go to Marie Claire salon on Salwa Rd every month to have it maintained. I finally asked my stylist Liska – she’s amazing by the way – what shampoo she uses after rinsing the dye from my hair, mostly because I loved the fragrance. She told me it was L’Oreal Delicate Colour from their Professionel line. I picked up a bottle to bring home and have noticed a big difference this past month: the shade lasts longer, my hair is softer and smells like a mixture of tropical fruit. Yum!
Susanna Berger Lamp
This is a unique air freshener made of Limoges porcelain, china, crystal or earthenware eliminates odor and neutralizes the air and destroys bacteria. Say goodbye to cigarette smoke, musty smells and cooking, pet or tobacco odors with a gorgeous fragrance – my favourite is cut grass! You’ll be able to find a lamp design to suit your style as there are over 160 to choose from. Available at The Centre Shopping Mall.
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Soné Element Eden Hi Summer Collection
Love pink pastels, polkadots and handcrafted crochet? Then you will love the new 1950’s inspired collection from Element Eden. Visit their online boutique at www.elementeden.com/au/ and spice up your wardrobe for the holidays.
Srimani Claire’s Accessories
As a mother of two cute daughters, I always like to dress them up – especially my five-year old who always wants pretty things. That’s why I love Claire’s at The Mall. Their staff is friendly and helpful and I can find all the stylish items I want, perfect for any age range of girls from toddler to Eeksha Chamodi teen.
Jorge Oryx Rotana Brunch
This month I’d like to recommend the Friday Jazz Brunch at Choices at the Oryx Rotana. I had brunch there recently (see our review on pg 70!) and was pleasantly surprised with the whole set-up. The music was fabulous and the food delicious – it felt so surreal. I had such a special time with my brother. It was a great day. QR 249 with soft drinks, QR 324 with bubbly. Call 4402-3333 to book your table.
for
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QH RECOMMENDS
Happy Holidays
From BlackBerry®
These festive new apps from BlackBerry® App World will get you in the holiday spirit in no time!
1
CHRISTMAS GAME
Merry Christmas! Get into the spirit of Christmas with this fun and interactive game where Santa is all set to deliver gifts and joy
2
CHRISTMAS SONGS Enjoy the best part of the holidays with Christmas
Songs. Sing along and play with unforgettable music, sounds and animations designed especially for children. With beautiful Christmas illustrations this app is ideal for children ages three and up and includes short Christmas poems between each song.
3
CHRISTMAS SONG LYRICS
This application is a must for the Christmas carolers and is great for spending hours and hours with your children this holiday season. If you’re looking for new ideas of what to do during the Christmas holidays, then this is the perfect application to have at your fingertips with hundreds of Christmas songs to keep your playlist going.
4
BOMBERMAN VS. ZOMBIES: CHRISTMAS EDITION
Darkness invades the Earth on Christmas Eve. People are scared because zombies are threatening their holidays! Step by step, night by night, zombies attack. The world can be turned to Zombieland, but Bomberman is prepared to save the planet and doesn’t want to take a rest! With more than one million fans of this fun-filled app series, don’t miss this latest incarnation for Bomberman and experience faster game-play, better controls and competitive player bonuses.
5
NEW YEAR’S COUNTDOWN
A fun and interactive countdown to the new year! Watch the horizon as virtual fireworks light up the night sky!
6
NEW YEAR RESOLUTION
Create email reminders for your New Year’s Resolutions. It helps you keep to them by seeing them regularly via email. Set various time intervals, days, weeks, months and you can also set up other reminders. Set your email address and synchronize in order to successfully set up email alerts.
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QH SENSATIONS
Guinot
Glowing for
By Susanna Wolfe and Ashlee Starratt Photography by Soné Moriarty
The French luxury brand has arrived in Qatar at Glow American Salon. QH feels the good vibrations as we test drive two of Guinot’s electro-stimulating facials. SUSANNA GETS A LIFT Glow have launched Guinot facials and products so I’m going to try the Hydradermie Lift as I head into the salon today, (I wish it could lift other areas of my anatomy too!) I am so excited as I haven’t had a facial in ages and Guinot are meant to be the leaders in the skin industry with their technology and science. Glow is located in a lovely villa with great décor. The facial room is like a massage room – very tranquil with a waterfall feature and tea-lights. I have to take all my metal jewellery off as the facial equipment uses a galvanic current. I lie down and get very comfortable quickly as Elisa Asignacion, my therapist starts massaging cleanser into my skin. Followed by a face massage to bring the blood to the surface, she then uses what feels like an electric buffer brush to exfoliate. An anti-aging gel, nutrient serum and a balancing masque follows – I’m in heaven! I’m told that the galvanic current allows the active ingredients in all these potions to penetrate deep into my complexion and my facial tension lines from frowning and concentrating will vanish (I wish!) 106 QH December 2012.indd 106
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QH SENSATIONS First, toxins are drained from my face and then the lifting process begins by stimulating my neck and face. My teeth did feel a bit sensitive during this part. So, although the galvanic current was not the most relaxing bit of the treatment, I must say that I was very pleased with the result. My skin feels and looks a lot tighter and sparkling fresh. I would definitely recommend this facial to anyone who’s over 30 and needs a bit of a boost! The bright space is welcoming
ASHLEE’S IONIC CLEANSE I’m still a newbie to the world of facials so when I get the opportunity to try the world-class Guinot Double Ionization treatment I’m a bit nervous. Electrodes on my skin, teeth fillings rattling – I was sure it would be more painful than pleasant. Surprisingly, it was one of the best treatments I’ve ever had! My therapist gave my face a good steaming and exfoliation before starting. Because the desert climate has not been kind to my skin – making it prone to breakouts, I had to have an extraction process to remove some pimples, blackheads and clogged pores. This was the most uncomfortable part of the session. The Double Ionization treatment uses both positive and negative currents on the face to transform the skin from the inside out. It used to be that clients had to hold on to a metal rod to keep them grounded from the current but thankfully Glow has the most updated Guinot machines on the market, which come fully grounded so you’re protected at all times. My therapist rubs a bevy of hydrating, soothing and nourishing Guinot gels and lotions onto my face to soften and oxygenate my skin. As she runs the rollers with the current over my face I feel a soft tingling – especially in the few fillings I have in my mouth. The purpose of the double current is to help the nutrientpacked gel serums penetrate into the skin’s deepest layers. This treatment is ideal for all skin types and I leave feeling rejuvenated, my face dewy and softer to the touch with a more even skin tone. This one’s a must!
te and rejuvenate the skin
Electronic pulses help penetra
A relaxing facial massage ABOUT GLOW AMERICAN SALON
ase at Glow
Available for purch
Location: Off Salwa Rd past Decoration Roundabout Timings: 10:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m. Tues –Thurs 11:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. Friday 10:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m. Sat & Sun Closed Mondays Pricings: Guinot Hydradermie Lift 75 mins, QR 350 Guinot Double Ionization 75 mins, QR 350 Contact info: 4468-9945, www.glowamericansalon.com 107
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SPECIAL PROMOTION
Alfardan Properties’
Commercial Towers are stars in Doha’s skyline and an icon of excellence Alfardan Towers, Alfardan Centre and Alfardan Plaza are among Qatar’s most successful commercial properties
company has credited its vast experience as a long-time market leader and innovator in real estate solutions in Qatar for its ability to design and deliver iconic properties that meet the needs and exceed the expectations of its clients.
A
lfardan Properties has distinguished itself as a premier provider of a comprehensive range of real estate solutions, ranging from world-class properties to professional property management services in Qatar. Alfardan Properties has been behind some of the most prestigious and exclusive residential and commercial property developments in Qatar. Its creations have been renowned for their technical superiority and distinct creativity, featuring an inspired combination of the
traditional beauty of Arabic architecture, modern design concepts and cutting-edge technology. Alfardan Properties, an innovative leader in Qatar’s real estate industry, has remained on the forefront as the ideal choice for top organizations when selecting a commercial office hub in Doha, driven mainly by a growing interest in high-level luxury offerings that cater to the specific demands of the most discerning corporate organizations and businesses in Qatar. The
Alfardan Properties’ commercial properties uniqueness lies to exquisite benchmarking of state-of-the-art facilities, top-quality luxury finishing and flexibility of office space; not to mention the locations of the commercial properties distributed in the prime business hubs around Doha. Some of Alfardan Properties’ popular commercial buildings renowned for their service and quality excellence within Qatar’s corporate sector are projects that have achieved considerable success, including Alfardan Towers, Alfardan Centre and Alfardan Plaza, among others. Alfardan Properties has been awarded ISO 9001:2008 certification on QMS (Quality Management System) in 2011 by Lloyd’s Register Quality Assurance, re-affirming the company’s commitment to
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SPECIAL PROMOTION
quality project development, leasing and property management services. Muhibullah Mani, COO, Alfardan Properties, said: “Alfardan Properties continues to capitalize on the company’s extensive market experience and professional expertise to fully understand client requirements and respond to evolving market demands. With this approach, we have been able to develop and maintain the quality of our innovative and luxurious commercial properties that complement Qatar’s reputation as one of the most dynamic and lucrative business destinations in the world. We have taken into consideration prime factors such as location, current corporate market requirements and contemporary design in the development of these commercial properties. This strongly reaffirms Alfardan Properties’ uncompromising commitment to excellence in developing commercial and residential properties that exceed expectations in terms of quality, luxury and location.”
Established as a brand synonymous with luxury and excellence, Alfardan Properties real-estate continues to soar with new and innovative projects that are in line with the changing dynamics of Qatar’s property market. The Alfardan Towers, well-known for being one of the finest commercial towers in Doha, soar 40 stories above the West Bay commercial district and are a symbol of Alfardan Properties’ continuous efforts towards luxury and excellence. Exuding an air of lavishness and exclusivity, the Commercial Tower is connected to the residential Tower by a podium at its base, which is home to posh boutique retail outlets featuring some of the finest names in luxury brands, designer labels and a gourmet restaurant. The 30-story commercial tower offers up to 1,084 sqm of office space per floor; private secured access for employees and visitors; eight high-speed elevators; raised flooring for maximum flexibility; among other amenities.
Alfardan Centre, located at the beginning of Doha’s Bank Street, serves as the Alfardan Group’s Head Office as well as being home to Alfardan Exchange and Alfardan Jewellery branches. Renowned for being one of the first buildings in the area, Alfardan Centre is located adjacent to the historic Souq Waqif, one of Doha’s biggest cultural attractions; in addition to being nearby major banks, financial institutions, the Doha Securities market and the City’s famous Corniche. The 6-story Alfardan Plaza is a modern day landmark with a fusion of traditional motifs blended with clean post-modern lines. Strategically located in the heart of Doha city in the vibrant Al Sadd area, Alfardan Plaza office building is home not only to the prestigious Alfardan Premier Motors and Land Rover Showroom, but also to several prominent companies and enterprises.
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QH SENSATIONS SENSATIONS EXPERIENCE
Escaping to fantastic happening destinations around the world does wonders. Here are some
Brussels Winter Wonder Markets Throughout December: Belgium Dubbed ‘Europe’s most original Christmas market’, the Brussels Christmas Market stretches over two kilometres. It includes a labyrinth of stalls, attractions and activities, fun festivities for families and couples – get whisked away by the enchanting array of events for just a few Euros including the skating rink, Baroque roundabouts, Big Wheel and Ice Monster – a 40m long dinosaur made of ice! Invest in a good woolly hat, then book here: www.visitbrussels.be.
Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade Dec 19 - 23: U.S.A. This year calls in the 104th edition of this spectacular holiday tradition in California. Themed ’Surf, Sand & Sea’, you’ll be joined by over a million other spectators to take in the beauty of countless multi-million dollar yachts, kayaks, canoes and other small boats as they light up the harbour in a dazzling array of holiday lights. Truly an incredible sight, delighting millions of people for a century, it’s a real joyful celebration. Cruise on over to www.christmasboatparade.com for details.
Sunburn Festival Dec 27 - 29: India The Sunburn Festival is a non-stop three day celebration of music in the glorious party-goers’ paradise of Goa. Party on down, enjoy scrumptious fare, excellent entertainment and the shopping experience that goes with this colourful shindig. The Sunburn Festival requires party stamina though, as the atmosphere gets frenetic and artists perform round the clock. All genres of music will grace the open-air stages, from house to bass and drums. The experience of a lifetime for any discerning clubber, just hit up www.facebook.com/sunburnfestival, pack your SPF factor 30 and fly!
Sydney Harbour New Year’s Eve Dec 31: Australia
Dubai Film Festival Dec 9 - 16: U.A.E. Just a short flight away awaits the leading film festival in the Middle East, Asia and Africa: The Dubai International Film Festival (DIFF). Having served as an influential platform for Arab filmmakers, the Festival’s forward-thinking initiatives are known for their enriching prowess for both the professional and amateur filmmaker, while showcasing the best regional works to the world. Roll tape here: www.dubaifilmfest.com.
Australia’s Queen of Pop, Kylie Minogue, leads the campaign for the 2012 Sydney New Year’s Eve celebrations. Hailed for its electric atmosphere, the Harbour has long been coveted as the spot to call out at the top of your lungs ‘’Happy New Year!’’. This year will be no exception as the theme ‘Embrace’ reflects a positive attitude of openness and connection. Throw in the most mega fireworks display on the planet and what better way to ring in a new one? For all the info head down under to: www.sydneynewyearseve.com.
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QH SENSATIONS
An
Icelandic
Tale By John Hunt
We take you to the majestic shores of Iceland to show you why there’s simply no place like it on Earth.
The thunderin
g Gulfoss Wat
erfall
The iconic steam pools of Iceland’s Blue Lagoon 112 QH December 2012.indd 112
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QH SENSATIONS
I
celand is an island in the north Atlantic. It’s about nine times the size of Qatar, yet supports a population of just 320,000, most of who live near the capital, Reykjavik, in the country’s southwest. It’s Iceland’s wide open – and unspoiled – spaces that herald its emergence as a tourist destination of note.
WHAT TO DO: Iceland’s beauty and intrigue lies mostly in the great outdoors. Given its extreme northern location you’re not going to find great weather – Iceland is a destination of nature, culture and extraordinary landscapes.
We went horse trekking the following day with Ishestar (www.ishestar.is). This three-hour wander (QR 285 – worth it) through the countryside atop a pure-bred Icelandic horse (they’re small, about pony-sized) saw us brave inclement weather (wind and intermittent rain) but it really didn’t matter as once again the scenery excelled, as did the novelty of being on a horse for the first time in 20 years. Half-way through the trek there’s a point where the more experienced riders can go off for a gallop. I stayed with the ‘learners’ group!
“ Iceland is a destination of nature, culture and extraordinary landscapes.”
The day-long Golden Circle tour (QR 280) is essential viewing. We went with Reykjavik Excursions (www.re.is). The tour – in a standard coach with an English-speaking guide – takes you into the island’s interior, stopping first for a visit to a tomato greenhouse (trust me – this is fascinating!) Next up is the Gullfoss Waterfall which is breathtaking, the crashing water deafening and the extraordinary view difficult to adequately express in words. The third stop is the Geyser Geothermal Field and the famous Strokkur geyser which erupts every five minutes, sending a column of boiling water out of the earth and 40m into the air. Strokkur has a number of less explosive but nonetheless engrossing neighbouring pools and bubbling fissures. Last stop of the day was a tour of Thingvellir, site of the original Icelandic parliament, now a UNESCO heritage site. The coach dropped us off at the bottom of a gentle climb up to Thingvellir and from there to the top of one of the many mountains nearby. As we made our way past striking rock faces and crystal clear pools and waterfalls, the sun burst through the clouds and what an incredible sight; simultaneously powerful and serene. This tour is an Icelandic staple and I simply can’t recommend it enough.
Our last day saw us visit the Blue Lagoon, 20 miles from Reykjavik with frequent buses travelling there and back from the capital. This incredible attraction (QR 180) is world-famous for good reason: a very large, picturesque geothermal spa maintained at 37-39C. Don trunks and dive into the light blue water. It’s fantastically relaxing and there are waterfalls, saunas and steam rooms dotted about. Reykjavik itself has numerous museums and galleries, and it’s a compact town so it’s all navigable on foot. The pick of the bunch is the National Museum which charts the entire history of Iceland to date over two floors. There is also an excellent tourist office in town and English is spoken everywhere. Check out www.visiticeland.com for more.
WHERE TO STAY:
We stayed at the Radisson Blu Saga Hotel, a clean, large four-star property about five minutes’ walk from the city centre. Starting from a very reasonable QR 375/night B&B it provided comfortable and spacious accommodation with free WiFi (15 mbps!). The breakfast buffet was hugely welcome before heading out into the wild each morning. A full range of hot and cold options were available. Many hours were spent in the hotel’s basement spa, which featured an incredible jacuzzi to soothe away the days aches and pains! On our last night we stayed in Keflavik, a small, quirky town near the airport as we had an early flight home. We stayed at the Icelandair Hotel Keflavik (from QR 330 a night) which also had fast, free WiFi, breakfast buffet and best of all, a free taxi service to the airport in the morning. We left with heavy hearts as Iceland is an incredibly beautiful country with a unique, almost unworldly landscape. If you want to be enchanted by nature and culture then it comes highly recommended. Don’t plan to travel before March, and even in summer make sure to pack a raincoat and walking shoes!
HOW TO GET THERE:
We flew Qatar Airways to London Heathrow and then on to Reykjavik. Prices in March are showing from about QR 4,880 return. Flight time is about nine hours in total. Frequent buses take you from the airport into Reykjavik which is a 40-minute journey.
The quaint natural beauty of downtown Reykjavik
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QH SENSATIONS
Holly Jolly
London By Steven Keith Tart
Sampling the wares
THE BOROUGH MARKET I’m standing in the shadow of the U.K.’s largest building; the 1,016 ft-tall skyscraper known as The Shard, near London Bridge. Officially opened last July by Prince Andrew, London Mayor Boris Johnson, and Prime Minister, Sheikh Hamad bid Jassim bin Jabor Al Thani, The Shard has been described as ‘highlighting the relationship between Britain and Qatar’ after the financial assistance Qatar provided in the creation of this mammoth structure. I’m not here to look to the sky though, I’m here at street level to sample what lies in the shadow of The Shard, what many affectionately term ‘London’s Larder’. I’m here at the Borough Market,
Winter markets, warm cider and spiced egg nog – there’s nothing like the holidays in London Town. With its winter wonders and Dickensian charm, the city is ‘A Christmas Carol’ come to life with a modern twist.
probably the finest food market in the U.K. and to top it off, its Christmas time. Since 1014, there has been a food market of some description in London Bridge, but it wasn’t until the 13th century that traders were relocated to what is now Borough High Street and thus the famous food market was conceived. Today, a crack team of impartial food experts are employed to ensure the highest quality grub is always available to the astonishing 4.5 million visitors they have to feed annually. With more than 150 stalls and shops selling the finest British and international produce, the choice is overwhelming. Scenes from Harry Potter were filmed here; come early enough and you may just
The Borough Market
see Jamie Oliver and Gordon Ramsay rifling through packs of ostrich and crocodile meat. This is where top chefs mix with ardent foodies, where one can talk directly and passionately to the farmer or food producer, rather than simply smiling at the supermarket cashier as they ‘beep’ your shopping through. I still haven’t eaten from every stall and I’ve been a regular for seven years. For me, the beauty of the Borough is that you can taste before you purchase. Its hard to be disappointed with anything on sale but how do you choose what to buy without having to hire a delivery truck to take it all home? Well, I would recommend what I call the ‘Taste Tour’. Get there a
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QH SENSATIONS CAROL SINGING AT ST. r PAUL’S CATHEDRAL (Nov 25 – Dec 24):
Moving vocal performances in one of the most beautiful buildings in London, at Christmas. Enough said. www.stpauls.co.uk/Christmas.
CHRISTMAS MARKET AT e SOUTHBANK (Nov 16 – Dec 24):
al products are sold at
Only the freshest, loc
little early, somewhere between 10:00 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. and rather than having to line up behind the stream of shoppers that will shortly be arriving, you’ll have the place to yourself. Plenty of time to take a bit of salty British cheese from here, some melt in the mouth Bresaola beef from there and pick up something mulled to wash it down with before the lines slow everything down a little. Christmas at the Borough Market is simply divine; carol singers, good company and the unctuous aroma of über-gastronomy wafting through the cold crisp December air. Pack a warm jacket, scarf and gloves and throw out the old adage that British food is boring; the Borough Market will change all that, especially during this magical time of the year.
the Borough
A FESTIVE TO-DO LIST Visiting London over the holiday season? Here’s ten Christmas-inspired activities to whet your appetite.
HYDE PARK WINTER m WONDERLAND (Nov 23 – Jan 6):
A Bavarian-themed Christmas staple that encompasses fairground rides, ice rink, Christmas market, circus and Magical Ice Kingdom. One to take the kids to and although it’s free to get in, you’ll need to buy vouchers to go on the rides. www.hydeparkwinterwonderland.com.
OXFORD STREET t CHRISTMAS LIGHTS (Until Jan 6):
A Christmas visit to the capital wouldn’t be complete without a visit to the famous Oxford and Regent Street lights, just make sure to buy a hot drink and wrap up warm.
‘FUERZABRUTA’ AT y THE ROUNDHOUSE (Dec 27 – Jan 26):
For those of you after some alternative entertainment, head down to Chalk Farm for this ferociously entertaining and renowned multi-media theatre production. www.roundhouse.org.uk/fuerzabruta.
‘SANTA’S GROTTO’ AT o HARRODS (Nov 3 – Dec 24)
Fresh juice stalls line the market streets
www.harrods.com/grotto and Kew Gardens (Dec 8 - Jan 6, closed Dec 24, 25) www.kew.org: By all means take the kids to Santa’s house, but please remember to take a carrot for Rudolph.
Next to the Thames is this Bavarian-style Christmas Market with wooden chalets selling cinnamon and spice and all things nice. Perfect for couples looking for a beautiful winters stroll. www.southbankcentre.co.uk.
‘MATILDA THE MUSICAL’ f AT CAMBRIDGE THEATRE (Until Dec 22): Roald Dahl’s classic children’s book gets a theatrical re-working with music and lyrics from the award-winning Tim Minchin. www.matildathemusical.com.
TRAFALGAR SQUARE n CHRISTMAS CAROLS (Dec 5 – 22, 5:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.): Every year the Norwegian people donate a huge Christmas tree to the British. Beautifully decorated, it stands in Trafalgar Square where you can catch carol singing groups performing for the excitable crowd.
MAKING HARRY POTTER: v WARNER BROS STUDIO TOUR (Until Mar 6, 2013:)
For many in the U.K., Harry Potter has become synonymous with Christmas as many of the films were released during the festive season. Take your tinsel wrapped wand to the Warner Bros Studios and shake off your muggle troubles. www.wbstudiotour.co.uk.
CHRISTMAS ‘AFTERNOON q TEA’ AT CLARIDGES (Nov 26 – Jan 2): Sup tea like royalty and nibble on the finest Christmas Stollen while listening to beautiful live music, all in the grand surroundings of Claridges. From £35 or QR 202 per person.
Well that’s all from me, have a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! I’m off to catch another TV re-run of ‘It’s a Wonderful Life’ starring Jimmy Stewart before having a post-Christmas dinner kip in the old armchair. See you in 2013. 115
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QH SENSATIONS SPECIAL FEATURE
Qatar Airways’ New Boeing 787 Dreamliner Takes Flight
The Boeing 787 Drea
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Qatar Airways’ newest addition to its fleet heralds the start of an exciting new era for travelers worldwide with unparalleled levels of comfort and luxury onboard Boeing’s next generation aircraft. C
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he state-of-the-art Boeing 787 Dreamliner is being deployed on four daily rotations between Doha and Dubai, marking a new era for Middle East aviation. Qatar Airways is first airline to launch the Boeing 787 service in the region. Flights to and from the U.A.E. will target peak travel times in a combination of morning, afternoon and night flights to Dubai. Qatar Airways has orders for 60 Dreamliners, with the next four 787s due to join the fleet by the end of December. Qatar Airways Chief Executive Officer Akbar Al Baker said the maiden commercial route marked yet another exciting achievement for the award-winning airline. “Today signifies an exciting and hugely anticipated occasion for Qatar Airways, as well as the global aviation industry. It is with enormous pride for my country, our employees and myself that we are embarking on another momentous achievement for our award-winning airline with the introduction of 787 passenger flights. The Dreamliner is yet another first for Qatar Airways, our customers and for the Middle East aviation industry,” he said. “Dubai is one of our most popular routes and we felt it important to give our
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ikh Hamad bin Jassim bin L-R: Qatar’s Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, H.E.She Baker Al Jaber Al Thani and Qatar Airways CEO Akbar
passengers in and around our neighbouring city an opportunity to experience the comforts of our new plane before it begins long-haul commercial services. With this launch we reaffirm our continued commitment to challenge and lead the aviation industry, redefining the passenger experience as we deliver a truly five-star offering to travelers around the world. “I have no doubt that our passengers – aviation fanatics, seasoned travelers and first-time flyers alike will cherish their first time aboard our 787s and look forward to savouring the experience time and time again. The 787 raises the bar for luxury commercial travel and the experience for travelers around the world will never be the same again,” added Al Baker. Following the 787’s welcome into commercial service on the Doha – Dubai
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route, it will then spread its wings on one of the airline’s five daily flights to London Heathrow. As more 787s join the fleet over the course of the next few weeks, the aircraft will be inducted on other long-haul routes including Zurich, Frankfurt and Delhi. Qatar Airways has 254 custom-made seats across its 787 Business and Economy Class cabins with specially designed interiors, together with a unique in-flight entertainment system offering over 1,000 audio and video programming options. Its Dreamliners are also the world’s first fullyconnected 787s with wireless facilities for passengers to remain in touch with their friends and loved ones on the ground. Seats on the 787 Doha – Dubai flights are now bookable online at www.qatarairways. com or through any Qatar Airways reservation office or local travel agent.
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QH SENSATIONS VIRGIN RECOMMENDS
VIRGIN RECOMMENDS QH BRINGS YOU THE TOP STAFF PICKS FROM THE MEGASTORE
NAME: ANNE POLINTAN STORE SECTION: RED BOX DEPARTMENT
TIME AT VIRGIN: 5 YEARS
Best Part of My Job: “You have to really know your products well and I enjoy learning about each new item we receive. There is always something different to find in the Red Box section!”
CANIAM CAMERA LENSE CUP Fool your friends when you pull out this funky thermos designed to look exactly like a replica of a professional camera lense. It comes in black or white and can hold both hot and cold liquids. The best part? Adjust the size like you would a real camera lense by screwing on or off the ‘lense extensions’. It’s yours for just QR 109.
WRAPPED AND READY PORTABLE SHAWL This nifty item is literally a shawl, stuffed into a sleek little carrying case of its own. A must-have now that the weather’s getting cooler – just choose a colour, throw it on and you’re ready for a chic night out. Grab it for QR 89.
MISTURA DESIGNS WRISTWATCH These hot-looking timepieces are truly a make-a-difference accessory. Made from natural South African wood, leather and organic materials, the watches blend nature with art. This one even has colourful flower petals inlaid in the time-face. Pick up an environmentally-friendly design of your own for QR 709.
SUPERMAN HOODY Guys you’ll look sleeker than a speeding bullet in this comfy, colourful pullover. Great for fending off the winter chill and the best part? The Superman crest glows in the dark! Be a superhero and grab one in your size for QR 249.
WOOUF BEAN BAG SPEAKERS This European label is at the top of its game in life-like chair, storage and carrying case design. Build your own ‘recording studio’ where your friends can lounge on these speaker and sub-woofer look-alikes. Built to last 20+ years the sleeves can be removed and replaced with different designs and motifs. Get your own for QR 459.
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SPOTLIGHT ON MOVIES
G N I M CO . . . SOON
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Be sure to beat the holiday rush at the cinema with these top five hot flicks!
LINCOLN Drama As the Civil War continues to rage, America’s president struggles with continuing carnage on the battlefield as he fights with many inside his own cabinet on the decision to emancipate the slaves. Director: Steven Spielberg Stars: Daniel Day-Lewis, Sally Field and David Strathairn QH Fun Fact: Actor Daniel Day-Lewis sent director Steven Spielberg a recording of the voice he was going to use to play Lincoln in a sealed box with a skull and crossbones on it so no one but Spielberg would open it first.
A ROYAL AFFAIR Drama | Romance A young queen, who is married to an insane king, falls secretly in love with her physician and together they start a revolution that changes a nation forever.
THE TWILIGHT SAGA: BREAKING DAWN - PART 2 Adventure | Drama After the birth of Renesmee, the Cullens gather other vampire clans in order to protect the child from a false allegation that puts the family in front of the Volturi. Director: Bill Condon Stars: Kristen Stewart, Robert Pattinson and Taylor Lautner QH Fun Fact: In this final installment of the Twilight saga be prepared to go out with a bang – with a budget of $75 million it’s the most expensive film of the series.
Director: Nikolaj Arcel Stars: Alicia Vikander, Mads Mikkelsen and Mikkel Boe Følsgaard QH Fun Fact: The film is Denmark’s official submission to this year’s 85th Annual Academy Awards.
SILVER LININGS PLAYBOOK Comedy | Drama After a stint in a mental institution, former teacher Pat Solitano moves back in with his parents and tries to reconcile with his ex-wife. Things get more challenging when Pat meets Tiffany, a mysterious girl with problems of her own. Director: Martin McDonagh Stars: Bradley Cooper, Jennifer Lawrence , Robert De Niro, Jacki Weaver QH Fun Fact: Also featuring Chris Tucker, this is the actor’s first appearance in a movie that isn’t related to the ‘Rush Hour’ series since 1997!
STARLET Drama An unlikely friendship forms between 21 year-old Jane and the elderly Sadie after Jane discovers a hidden stash of money inside an object at Sadie’s yard sale. Director: Sean Baker Stars: Dree Hemingway, Besedka Johnson and James Ransone QH Fun Fact: Leading actress Dree Hemingway is the great-granddaughter of iconic novelist Ernest Hemingway. Lots of talent in that family!
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The Dish on Qatar
New to the country? Welcome to the desert! In honour of National Day this month we’ve rounded up some patriotic fun facts about Qatar and its history. the 19th century while the white symbolizes a united peace. The nine edges running down the middle indicate Qatar as the 9th member of the reconciled Emirates after the Qatar-British Treaty of 1916.
Waving the fla
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The shade of maroon used on the Qatari flag is a completely unique pantone colour emblematic of Qatar. It’s called Qatar Red, or Pantone 222C and for those graphic designers and others who work in print and publishing its quite a challenging shade to replicate exactly. Visit www. iloveqatar.net and go to Mr. Q’s blog to learn more!
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How many of you know the words to Qatar’s national anthem? For us ex-pats wanting to learn, Mr. Q over at I Love Qatar did a great rough translation from the Arabic to English so start practicing! You can hear the melody at www.iloveqatar.net.
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Qatar National Day is celebrated every December 18 to commemorate the day in 1878 when Sheikh Jasim, founder of the State of Qatar, succeeded his father Sheikh Muhammad Bin Thani, raising the country up from a feudal, tribal state to one of unity and solidarity. Sheikh Jasim is remembered as a leader and a pioneer in the development of Qatar, setting it on a path of progress that has led the nation to where it is today. The Qatari flag may be simple but it actually carries a lot of symbolism. It’s maroon on the right with a white field on the left, separated down the middle by a column of nine pointed edges. The maroon colour represents the bloodshed of the Emirati wars of
“Swearing by God who erected the sky Swearing by God who spread the light Qatar will always be free, sublimed by the souls of the sinceres Proceed on the manners of the ascendants And advance on the Prophet’s guidance in my heart, Qatar is an epic of glory and dignity Qatar is a land of the early men Who protect us at times of distress, Doves they can be at times of peace, Warriors they are at times of sacrifice”.
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The ruling Al Thani family are descendants of the Bani Tameen, an ancient Arab tribe that settle in northern Qatar early in the 18th century before moving to what is now Doha in the mid-19th century. They are one of the oldest families in the country with their name coming from ancestor Sheikh Thani bin Mohamad bin Thani, the first sheikh to reign over modern Qatar.
e country’s youth
A special day for th
For more info on the history of Qatari National Day visit www.ndqatar.com and tell us your favourite National Day experiences on Twitter @qatarhappening or on our Qatar Happening Facebook page.
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IT HAPPENED
Egyptian actor Khaled El Nabawy
L-R: Bassam Al-Thawadi and Zahra Arafat
Screen legend Robert De Niro
4TH DOHA TRIBECA FILM FESTIVAL Katara & Souq Waqif Nov 17-24, 2012
L-R: Yousra, Mira Nair, Director of ‘The Reluctant Fundamentalist’ and Meesha Shafi
Centre: Mohamed Hefzy and cast of ‘Asham A Man Called Hope’
Egyptian actress Yousra
Ali Mustafa
Ashutosh Gowariker
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IT HAPPENED
Abdulla Al Kaabi
4TH DOHA TRIBECA FILM FESTIVAL Katara & Souq Waqif Nov 17-24, 2012
Cast members from ‘Asham A Man Called Hope’
Left: Ali Al Jabri
Left: Chadi from DFI
Centre: Minister Of Culture H.E Abdulaziz Al Kuwari at DTFF Opening Night
L-R: Actors Khaled Abul Naga and Nelly Kareem at Opening Night
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IT HAPPENED
AIDA OPENING NIGHT Katara Amphitheatre Oct 18, 2012
RUSSIAN BALLET Qatar National Convention Center Oct 26, 2012
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IT HAPPENED
Digging in to the massive celebration cake
The Mall: Oct 27, 2012
FAMILY DAY 2012 College of the North Atlantic Qatar Oct 20, 2012
EID AL ADHA PARADE CELEBRATIONS
Eeksha Chamodi
Lagoona Mall: Oct 26, 2012
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IT HAPPENED
Starting second from left: Victoria Ferraris, Francesca Moser: ABODE Magazine, Garry Friend: Grand Hyatt GM, Ashlee Starratt: QH Magazine and Nicholas Chrisostomou: Coco LattĂŠ
SIP, TASTE AND TWIRL, Rocca Grand Hyatt Doha Nov 1, 2012
Centre: Franco Canzano: Chef de Cuisine at Rocca
From left: Khalifa Saleh Haroon: I Love Qatar, Anri Taki
QAWS WOOFSTOCK DOG SHOW Muaither Area Nov 2, 2012
Photo Credits: Olga Kirimlidou
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IT HAPPENED
Holding trophies: Football legends Raul Gonzales, Fernando Hierro, Predrag Mijatovic, George Hagi
ASPIRE4SPORT Aspire Zone Nov 12-15, 2012
Women’s tennis star Martina Hingis
Cutting ribbon: Dr. Abdulla Al-Hamaq: Executive Director, Qatar Diabetes Association
BEAT DIABETES WALKATHON The Corniche Nov 16, 2012
Photo Credits: Sanjaya Gihan Munindradasa
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IT HAPPENED
The New York Steakhouse team
FESTIVE DINNER Renaissance, Doha City Center Nov 12, 2012
Fresh and scrumptious tuna tataki
Learning about the different cuts of meat
Centre: Designer Mona Al Ansari
New York Steakhouse Chef Moritz Neumann
W REVEALED: MONA AL ANSARI FASHION SHOW Lusail Marina Nov 14, 2012
Left to right: Srimani Ratnaweera, Lanie Fillo-Pana, SonĂŠ Moriarty: QH Magazine, Mona Al Ansari, Rachel Petero: Genviva, Chet Tibayan: QH Magazine
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IT HAPPENED
ABOU T FERJAAN IN TOKYO ‘Qatar Week: Ferjaan in Tokyo’ was a five-day event held in Tokyo’s Roppongi Hills from Sept 27 - Oct 1, 2012. ‘Ferjaan’, which means ‘neighbourhood’ in colloquial Qatari Arabic, featured a 1,500 metre cultural village showcasing Qatari culture through a historically accurate representation of a souk, the traditional Arabic marketplace.
‘Thank You Qatar’ Photographer: Akira Hoshino
‘The First Sword Dance’ Photographer: Zohre Miha
QATAR WEEK: FERJAAN IN TOKYO Japan Sept 27Oct 1, 2012
‘Young’ Photographer: Akira Nagaoka
In celebration of Qatar’s on-going friendship with Japan is the ‘Qatar Through The Eyes Of It’s People’ photo contest. The above photos are from the top three winners. Thanks to all who participated to make Qatar Week: Ferjaan in Tokyo 2012 a success!
L-R: Qatar’s Civil Aviation Authority Chairman Adul Aziz Al Nuaimi, U.S. Ambassador to the State of Qatar, Susan Ziadeh and Qatar Airways CEO Akbar Al Baker L-R: Qatar’s Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, H.E. Sheikh Hamad bin Jassim bin Jaber Al Thani and Qatar Airways CEO Akbar Al Baker
QATAR AIRWAYS BOEING 787 DREAMLINER FLIGHT
Doha To Dubai Nov 20, 2012
The 787 Dreamliner is a first for Qatar Airways, as it’s the largest carrier in its fleet
The spacious interior of the Dreamliner’s business class section
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