Qatar Happening - December 2013 by Qatar Happening

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Table of Contents

pg 22

OUT CHECK pening.com

National Day Activities

atarhap ormation! q . w w w nf latest i e h t r fo

DECEMBER

EVERY ISSUE 11 Editor-in-Chief’s Letter

MENT ENTERTAIN

TURE ARTS & CUL

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

Events Calendar

Top Picks

Qatar Choice Awards 2013

It Happened

132

140

Pullout calendar with the city’s do-not-miss monthly events QH’s photo gallery of the latest happening events in Doha

Phone Directory

Need-to-know phone numbers

Chairman's Message

Metamorphosis Of A Nation

An ode to the nation

Close out the Year of Culture with these top-notch events

Reggae Roots

Music Education Spreads Its Reach

The Fully Loaded band at The St. Regis are back to rock reggae night

Steakhouse takes customer appreciation to a whole new level

New Year's Listings

How Qatar's rapid growth continues to propel it forward

National Day Listings

Vote now for the country's best and brightest in the hospitality scene

Party Hoppin' Happenings The Renaissance's New York

Qatar UK Bids Farewell

DAY NATIONAL L SPECIA

Top Picks

We go inside the Qatar Music Academy

Andalusian Curtain

Exploring a world of reflection at Anima Gallery

Arts & Culture Listings

Find out everything that’s going on this month

The best parties to ring in 2014

Entertainment Listings

Find out everything that’s going on this month

Fun-filled family events

LIKE US ON FACEBOOK www.facebook.com/qatarhappening

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Table of Contents COMMUNITY 51

Top Picks

Simple Things Can Save Lives

Ladies Who Lead

Community Listings

Practice road safety with One Second Qatar

Exploring the important work of the ladies of WOHOM

Find out everything that’s going on this month

KIDS CLUB 59

Top Picks

Kitchen Creations

Kids Club Listings

pg 96 The Qatar ExxonMobil Tennis Open Is Back

A festive gingerbread recipe that's fun for the whole family Fun ideas to do with the kids

ING FOOD & DIN 67

Top Picks

Flavours Of Greece

Tennis Mania

Escape to Mykonos at the InterContinental Doha

Hats Off To The Italians

le Vesuvio debuts its re-vamped new menu

Festive Feasts

IONS QH SENSAT

SPORTS

111

QH Recommends

Serving it up at the Qatar ExxonMobil Tennis Open 2014

114

For The Love Of The Game

The Comforts Of Home

Indulge in the Ladies Experience Package at The Grand Hyatt

Exploring local football with the Qatar Stars League

123

Reasons To Fly Upbeat Berlin

Our favourite monthly must-haves

Our pick of top destinations

Your complete holiday guide to a mouth-watering Christmas season

Gym Junkies Beat the holiday bulge with our complete fitness round-up

124

Get up close with the city's underground arts scene

Food & Dining Listings

108

Sports Listings

126

Virgin Recommends

102

Find out everything that’s going on this month

128

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

Call Details: Inquiries: Marketing:

Email: editor@qatarhappening.com

Fax:

info@qatarhappening.com jorge@qatarhappening.com

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Have Your Say: e.

The best monthly entertainment picks from the Megastore

Spotlight On Movies

Our top five must-see films of the month

130 The Dish On Qatar +974 4427 8416 +974 5584 4905 +974 4427 8415

Traditional Qatari recipes to enjoy this National Day

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

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From The Desk Of The Editor-In-Chief

On the Cover?

Dear friends, I would like to take this moment to extend our warmest wishes and greetings on the occasion of Qatar’s National Day on December 18. It’s a momentous time for us as a nation, as our beloved Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani leads us in his role as our new Emir, celebrating the first National Day in his official capacity. It is our hope that all citizens and residents of Qatar will come out to show their admiration and support to His Highness at this year’s National Day events. We at QH and the Art of Business share in his vision and support his leadership as he takes Qatar to the next stage of its advancement. For us, December is a full month and the perfect time to highlight all our great country has to offer. This issue in our Community section we explore the pace of growth and development in Qatar in honour of National Day 2013, while in our Sensations section this month’s Dish on Qatar column offers up some traditional Qatari recipes that you can try out at home. December also marks the start of the festive season for many expats here in Doha and we haven’t forgotten about all the activities that go along with it. In our pages you’ll find round-ups of the best festive Christmas feasts, tree lightings for the whole family and New Year’s Eve galas that will have you celebrating well into the wee hours of 2014. There’s also plenty of other great content to keep you bursting with knowledge, creativity and fun events. In Arts and Culture we take a look inside the Qatar Music Academy and how a recent infusion of funding is bringing the sound of music to more students than ever. In Sports we have a sneak peek at one of the biggest sporting events coming to Doha this January – the Qatar ExxonMobil Tennis Open 2014. This year’s tournament promises a host of big names all vying for the title and the trophy. And again in Community, we buckle in to highlight the Ministry of Interior’s important ‘One Second Qatar’ campaign, and take a look at road safety in Qatar in the wake of recent, unprecedented road-works projects. We hope you enjoy all we have to offer you, our loyal readers, in this, our last issue of 2013. As we look ahead to the New Year we will resolve to continue to be your trusted resource for events and features in Qatar. In fact, we strive to be bigger and better than ever – so stayed tuned for some exciting developments to be unveiled in 2014. Thank you for making us a part of your lives these past twelve months. We hope the next twelve are just as thrilling.

National Day A prime vantage point, the 2012 from a dhow fireworks on the harbour as seen ca Palan e Jessi it: Cred o Phot

About Us QH is your voice and your guide for all things fun, funky and happening in Qatar! Send us your feedback to editor@qatarhappening.com. Publisher: The Art of Business Chairman: Ahmed Hassan Bilal Editor-in-Chief: Nasser Ahmed Hassan Bilal Executive Editorial Director: Moona Masri-Whitice Editor: Ashlee Starratt Finalizer / Production Manager: Srimani Welagedara Lead Designer / Brand Manager: Zahi Srour Photographer: Jessie Palanca Listings Coordinator: Marlynne Mallari-Dela Peña Web Coordinator: Imran Khan Sales and Marketing Manager: Deliah Furcoi Sales and Communications Manager: Jorge Granda Marketing Coordinator: Chet Tibayan Distribution & Accounts: Lanie Fillo-Pana Contributors: Laila Al Asfour, Aisha Al Tamimi, Mai Akkad,

Amy Bassett, Jacqueline Bodnar, John Hunt, Alex Klim, Sanjaya Munindradasa, Alexandra Panagiotidou, Jonny Parr, Charlie Sands, Gerald Tan, Richard Walker

QATAR HAPPENING (QH) is published 11 times a year by The Art of Business, Doha, Qatar, an associate of Ahmed Hassan Bilal Group. The information contained in QATAR HAPPENING (QH) is correct at the time of printing. Details may change at any time without liability on the part of The Art of Business. Readers are advised to confirm details with the event organizers.

Nasser Ahmed Hassan Bilal Editor-In-Chief

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. 2013

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QH Speaks

Tweets Of The Month @hooHar @QFRadio2 hey – I miss you guys most mornings. RISE should start at 5am when traffic dictates I need to leave the house!

@qatarliving Attention all Apple fans: The iPhone 5c and 5s launches in Qatar from both @OoredooQatar and @VodafoneQatar – who is planning to buy one?

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

Editor’s Corner Hello December, we meet again. I could expound on the clichés of how fast the year has gone by, where did the time go etc., but I know exactly where every hectic, yet fun-filled minute went and I wouldn’t change these past 12 months for anything. We’ve had a blast bringing you the latest issues of QH each month and 2013 has had so many great events that working on the magazine has been a testament to how fast Doha is growing and will continue to grow heading into the New Year. Think bigger concerts, bigger sporting events, new restaurants, new art exhibitions and more of everything. This month is no exception as we send December out with a bang. In honour of National Day on the 18 we have some great Qatar-centric stories that reflect on where the country has been and where it’s headed in terms of growth and development. And it is with great pride that we acknowledge His Highness the new Emir, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani on his first National Day as Qatar’s new leader and congratulate him for upholding the vision set forth by his father H.H. Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani. We know that under his patronage and leadership, our country will continue to make strides in reaching its goal as a global pioneer in all sectors of development – economic, environmental, medicine, education, sport and arts and culture.

@iloveqatar @facebook seriously needs a better Middle East team. People who actually care about customers.

@PerezHilton Still laughing that #JenniferLawrence was trending on Twitter earlier cuz she got a haircut. People love J-Law! Her new hair? Not so much.

In Your Face al Day on December In honour of Qatar’s Nation followers what they ok ebo Fac 18, we asked our they call home. ntry love most about the cou : say to had you at wh Here’s

Salman Surti

Also here in our pages, you’ll find much to get you into the festive spirit and then some. Flip to our Entertainment section for a complete round-up of New Year’s Eve parties and galas, then skip ahead to Food & Dining for your go-to guide to all the Christmas dinners, brunches and gingerbread-making workshops you’ll need to keep your belly full. We also have some great features on the Qatar Music Academy, a young Qatari athlete who’s making waves as a sportscaster in Doha, and a plethora of fitness columns to help you get rid of that holiday bulge come January 1.

“Doha means a home away from home for many.”

So come along for the ride and help us celebrate another invigorating and rewarding 12 months ahead in 2014.

“Doha is a lovely city with lovely people.”

See you next year

“Endless possibilities with a huge dosage of reality check.”

Ashlee Starratt Editor

Jo Lamode “Qatar is our city! We love it!”

Nadia Saqqaf M. Enrique Moreno Kilgore

LIKE US ON FACEBOOK www.facebook.com/qatarhappening

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y Sp t ecial Daen tailnm terna Natio En

From The Desk Of The Chairman Dear friends,

t is with great pride and a strong sense of patriotism that we welcome you to our December National Day issue. With another year drawing to a close, we as a nation have much to celebrate. Foremost it is our immense honour to embrace and welcome our new Emir, His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani as he inaugurates his first National Day as our new leader and continues to unify the nation, paving the way forward for great things to come. With the strong teachings of his predecessor Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, the Father Emir, guiding his way as he assumes his position as head of state, His Highness has already proven himself to be wise, prudent and supportive in upholding the standards for growth and prosperity set forth in the Qatar National Vision 2030. As construction and expansion of infrastructure continues apace across the nation, it’s a sign of things to come as Doha readies itself for an influx of investment across all sectors as well as new waves of immigrants to enrich its knowledge-based economy. It is this diversity that will continue to propel Qatar into the international spotlight, building a strong multicultural framework for the future, while respecting and retaining our traditional Qatari roots. We must also acknowledge the shining accomplishments of H.H. Sheikha Moza bint Nasser as her work and advocacy for worldwide education and literacy among youth earned her the prestigious George Bush Award for Excellence in Public Service in September. Through the tireless campaign of Her Highness, marginalized children around the world have renewed hope, with access to education, literary resources and writing tools through her efforts as a UNESCO Special Envoy for Basic and Higher Education. Building on her initiatives, we can think of no better example for the heights that our own nation’s youth can reach than at our very own Education City – a hub of learning and innovation made possible under the auspices of Her Highness and Qatar Foundation.

We have much to be thankful for this National Day and equally as much to look forward to in the New Year ahead. As a community, if we all strive to work together under the leadership of our beloved Emir, we will no doubt attain and even surpass our goals – on both a personal, social, economic and national level. We at AHB Group are proud to play a part in bringing the accomplishments of our nation to you. Whether it’s a new exhibit that elevates Qatar’s commitment to arts and culture, or a top-notch sporting event that brings us one step closer to the 2022 World Cup, it is our honour to be an ambassador for all our country has to offer. It is my pleasure to wish all of you the very best this National Day, with high hopes for a prosperous New Year. Ahmed Hassan Bilal Chairman, AHB Group

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National Day is celebrated every December 18 to commemorate the day in 1878 when the nation united out of conflicting tribes, defeated the Turkish empire in a battle and vowed allegiance under the leadership of Sheikh Jassim bin Mohammed Al Thani. This year commemorates the first year of our new beloved Emir, His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani , who is poised to take our nation to great heights.

How to spend Qatar National Day Every year huge crowds visit the Corniche, where parades fill the streets with cars painted in Qatari colours, military exhibitions, traditional guards riding camels and during the night, a spectacular display of fireworks. Corniche Events: Parade: 8:30 a.m. - 10:30 a.m. Fireworks & Laser Show: 5:30 p.m. & 8:00 p.m. Please look for updated information on the events of the day on: www.qatarhappening.com www.qatar.qa www.dohanews.com Photo Credit: Alex Klim

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National Day Special

Metamorphosis Of A Nation

By John Hunt

With Qatar’s National Day upon us on December 18, we take a look at how the country is growing and evolving into a global giant.

left Doha in 2011 after a year working in journalism. The changes that were taking place in the capital during that year were abundant: significant infrastructural development, cultural development (the burgeoning reputation of the Museum of Islamic Art, the opening of Katara Cultural Village, Doha Tribeca Film Festival, et al), the economic and industrial expansion of the nation, and so on. Through my work for a business magazine I was afforded the opportunity to interview some real ‘heavy hitters’ within Qatar and, while many of them recognized the ongoing developments,

Young Qatari girls show their national pride in the

National Day parade along the Doha Corniche

there were several respondents who explained that these were just ‘seeds’ in the overall plan to develop the country through, in part, the Qatar National Vision 2030 (QNV).

however, the last time I checked, this magazine was not called ‘John Hunt Happening’, so better we get input from those actively changing the face of Qatar…

I now know how right they were when in December 2010 Qatar was awarded the 2022 World Cup. 2022 is just eight years away and this, I feel, represents less of a seed and more of a potential hothouse. All that being said,

Hill International is a worldwide construction consulting firm with a 25-year history of operating in the Middle East. Needless to say, it has identified – and become involved in – myriad projects within Qatar. Hill International’s Country

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Manager responsible for their operations in Qatar, Dr. Regard Yakou, a civil engineer and former project director for the new Qatar National Museum, commented: “Our major clients here include QRail, the Qatar Museums Authority, The Qatar International Manufacturing Company (QIMC) and many others.” “We’ve been involved in projects such as the Qatar Navigation Tower, The West Bay Lagoon Plaza, The National Museum of Qatar and the QR 3 billion Mall of Qatar which will be the largest retail centre in the country when it’s completed in 2015.” Of the projects mentioned above, the one that really sticks out is QRail. For this writer, having a comprehensive transport alternative to roads across the country – and linked to a light rail metro system in Doha – is going to be an enormous harbinger of change on several levels: getting quickly around Doha is going to be a boon not just to business but socially, too. I well remember those traffic jams! QRail will also provide the most economically-friendly method of transportation of its chief export – liquefied natural gas. It’s this export which is funding Qatar’s change. A change that is picking up pace out of sheer necessity – and one which is exploiting the current high prices for oil and gas. The award of the World Cup for 2022 means that, while it obviously remains in place, we won’t have to wait until the conclusion of the QNV to experience what will essentially be a different country to what Qatar was in, say, 1980. They say that you don’t feel the experience of change so completely if you experience it daily, but I think that a Doha Metro would challenge that perception. What is important is what sort of Qatar presents itself to the first-time visitor as well as the returnee. I’m looking forward with a great deal of curiosity to coming back – whenever that may be – but at least I have some idea of what to expect. Let’s fast-forward to 2022 and hypothesize about what a first-time visitor (a World Cup fan, perhaps?) would experience. For Qataris, the hope would be that as the passenger’s plane touched down at the new Doha International Airport, the visitor would be arriving at a beacon of sport, of culture, of social harmony, of tolerance, of spectacular views, and attractions for all budgets. That may read a little like something you’d see in a travel brochure for any country in the world, and how they would aspire to be considered.

This older photo shows Al Bidda Tower's development as Doha's West Bay skyline grew exponentially, becoming a beacon of modernity in its current state

This might not always be the case, but in Qatar’s case, all the pieces of the jigsaw are there, waiting to be put into place and complete the picture. Though it might sound mundane, I remain convinced that the greatest catalyst for change is the establishment of a comprehensive travel network within Qatar for reasons already discussed, while remaining mindful of the need to diversify the economy (tourism, all types of education, a fantastic air hub with a fantastic national carrier in Qatar Airways). The changes taking place in Qatar are inviting to the stranger, and magnetic to those – like me – who wish to return. An event like the 2022 World Cup is an expression of

what is called ‘soft power’ and gives Qatar the opportunity to showcase itself to a global audience. Anyone would think that Qatar’s visionaries were trying to make the rest of the region jealous. The upcoming National Day is, of course, the first for the new Emir, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani as the leader of Qatar. The youngest leader in the Gulf at just 33-years old, he retains his father’s vision and brings a youthful desire to execute the changes mentioned herein – and more besides. The new Emir will be the man who continues to lead by example and raise the profile of this country worldwide. Overall, it’s hard to describe Qatar’s future prospects as anything other than hugely positive. n

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National Day Special Listings

Patriotic Promotions Photography by Jessie Palanca and Alex Klim

Come celebrate the nation this December 18. After the parade and the fireworks, kick back and enjoy with a patriotic feast and a toast to the great country we call home! CROWNE PLAZA DOHA – THE BUSINESS PARK National Day Lunch

Dec 18: Celebrate the Qatari National Day at Aramede with a traditional Qatari buffet along with traditional Arabic pipe music. QR 150 per adult, including juices, local mineral water and soft drinks. QR 70 per child between the ages of 6-12 years old, children under the age of 6 dine free. From 12:30 noon till 4:00 p.m. For more information call 4408-7777.

DOHA MARRIOTT National Day Cake-Cutting

Dec 18: Come out with your friends and family and gather around the Doha Marriott lobby for a Qatari cake-cutting ceremony in celebration of National Day. From 1:00 p.m. till 4:00 p.m. For more information call 4429-8499.

HOLIDAY VILLA National Day Hi-Tea

Dec 18: Lagenda. Enjoy this special day at their emblematic restaurant with free-flowing Arabic coffee and mint tea. QR 138 per person and QR 68 for children between the ages of 4 -12 years old. From 12:00 noon till 4:00 p.m. For more information call 4408-4220.

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA National Day Cake

Dec 18: Enjoy a special cake and Arabic coffee in the lobby, followed by a special Qatari traditional buffet at Coral Restaurant for QR 175 per person. From 12:30 noon till 3:00 p.m. For more information call 4484-4444.

SHARQ VILLAGE & SPA National Day Celebrations

Dec 18: Get the best seats in the house to view the National Day festivities. On the auspicious occasion of Qatar’s National Day, Sharq Village & Spa joins the nation-wide celebrations with a special decoration overhaul of the hotel, themed in the colours of the national flag. From the moment guests enter they’ll be greeted by ladies dressed in the traditional Nashl costume and served coffee in the true sense of Qatari hospitality. This will be followed by a cakecutting ceremony for guests. The Sharq also has one of the best vantage points to view the spectacular fireworks and water and light shows throughout the evening along the Corniche. For more information call 4425-6666 or visit www.ritz-carlton.com.

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SHERATON DOHA International & Oriental Buffet

Dec 18: Al Shaheen Restaurant & Al Ghazaal Room. Offering a selection of international dishes and Oriental specialties with live pasta station and saj bread. The friendly staff will be wearing traditional Arabian dress and there will be a cotton candy station, a clown and face-painting for the kids. There will be Qatari flags at the entrance to the restaurant, purple flowers on the table, traditional National Day music performed by an oud player and a DJ performing a mix of Arabic and European tunes. QR 280 per person including soft drinks, juices and teas. QR 140 for children aged 6-12 years old, while children under the age of 6 dine free. For more information call 4485-4041.

Italian & Oriental Buffet

Dec 18: La Veranda. Indulge in two special buffets presenting the best of Mediterranean/Italian and Oriental cuisines. There will be a grill station with fresh fish and meat and a live pasta-cooking station as well, plus a bouncy castle, face-painting and balloon-twisting for the kids. Staff will be wearing traditional Arabian dress and there will be Qatari flags at the entrance, purple flowers on the tables, live entertainment by a pianist and a DJ performing a mix of Arabic and European tunes. QR 290 per person including soft drinks, juices and teas. QR 145 for children between the ages of 6-12 years old, while children under the age of 6 dine free. For more information call 4485-4041.

Grill And Chill

Dec 18: Pool Bar Area. Offering a charcoal grill with a selection of meat, fish and easy-to-eat side-dish buffet, including fresh salads. QR 190 per person including soft drinks, water and a juice bar serving signature refreshing fruit concoctions. QR 90 for children between the ages of 6-12 years old, while children under the age of 6 dine free. For more information call 4485-4041.

Pass-Around Canapés & Drinks

Dec 18: Ginan Room. Enjoy a selection of delightful nibbly bites and pass-around canapés with unlimited soft drinks. Ladies will be wearing traditional Arabian dress and the men will be wearing regular Arabic shirts and black trousers. Kick back to the tunes of traditional National Day music played over the sound-system. QR 80 per person, or QR 40 for children between the ages of 6-12 years old. Children under the age of 6 dine free. For more information call 4485-4041.

VIP Buffet Selection

Dec 18: Private Suites. Round up your colleagues, friends or family and invite them out to celebrate National Day. Be it in one of their many banquet rooms, private suites or one of their many restaurants, call and they will tailor-make a menu for your special party hosted in an intimate environment. Menus starting at QR 350 per person with popular items from Al Hubara restaurant served in the private suite. Price includes soft drinks, water, juices, tea and coffee. For more information call 4485-4041.

THE GRAND HYATT Qatar National Day

Dec 18: Qatar National Day emphasizes the identity and history of the country, embodies the ideals and aspirations that the country was founded on and pays tribute to the men and women who participated in building the nation. During this commemoration day on December 18, the Grand Hyatt Doha will be offering a 50% discount at all the restaurants for food and soft beverages. A buffet will be served at The Grill exclusively for QR 250 including soft beverages throughout the entire day. For more information call 4448-1234.

THE ST. REGIS DOHA National Day Festivities

Dec 18: National Day celebrations will commence early afternoon on December 18 with an official cake cutting and traditional national band and sword dance to entertain guests. You can also enjoy their National Day Oud Indulgency treatment – a special for National Day only – 90-minute treatment using the very best Oud available only at Remède Spa from 10:00 a.m. till 10:00 p.m. For more information call 4446-0300.

WYNDHAM GRAND REGENCY Qatari Week

Dec 15-21: Grand Gourmet. Come celebrate Qatar National Day at Grand Gourmet Restaurant and enjoy authentic Arabic cuisine with traditional Qatari dishes and an array of Arabic sweets during the whole week for only QR 169 per person from 6:30 p.m. till 10:30 p.m. There will also be a special Qatari traditional food buffet lunch on December 18. For more information call 4434-3203/3333 or visit www.wyndhamgrandregency.com. n

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Entertainment

s k c i P p o T ’s This Month

Kempinski Residences & Suites Half Note Wednesdays

The Grand Hyatt Disco Funk Party & Brunch Dec 13: The Grill Gardens. Save the date on December 13 for a disco brunch with an exclusive appearance by DJ Hughies flown in from London. Enjoy the 70’s and 80’s day at The Grill Gardens and enjoy the lovely winter sunshine. Is there ever an excuse not to party?. 8:30 p.m. till 1:00 a.m., QR 100 including a welcome drink. For more information call 4448-1234.

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

OUT om .c CHECaK ppening

atarh tion! www.qthe latest informa for

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Or yx Rotana Diva Tuesdays Tuesdays: The Jazz Club. Every Tuesday enjoy one complimentary drink from 6:00 p.m. till 9:00 p.m. and after that enjoy a 50% discount on selected cocktails and a 25% discount on any giant cocktails. For more information call 4402-3333.

Wednesdays: The Lounge. One of the most successful nights out in Doha is back with upbeat mixes from a DJ paired with funky saxophone sounds, a trendy crowd and hip cocktails that have made this the talk-of-the-town night at The Lounge. From 7:00 p.m. till 12:00 midnight. For more information call 4405-3325 or email restaurants.doha@kempinski.com or visit www.kempinski.com/doha.

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

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Entertainment

The Qatar Choice Awards 2013 Photography by Jessie Palanca

Gearing up for Qatar’s biggest night of the year, preparations are in full swing for the second edition of the Qatar Choice Awards. The spectacular event will be held at the renowned Renaissance Doha City Center in February 2014. Voting starts now!

our city, your choice. Your lifestyle, your voice. After the undeniable success of the first edition of the 2012 Qatar Choice Awards (QCA), Qatar Happening Magazine, ILoveQatar.Net and leading event organizers IFP Qatar and Naycom Qatar are working round the clock to bring to life the second edition of the black-tie ceremony. The Qatar Choice Awards is the only home-grown awards ceremony that recognizes the efforts of the local industry in Qatar. “Last year was the first time we organized the Qatar Choice Awards as such,” says Moona Masri-Whitice, Executive Editorial Director of QH Magazine. “The huge success of the event took us all by surprise, therefore this year we want to bring that ‘Wow’ factor and produce the most prominent and the best awards ceremony Qatar has ever seen. We have many surprises in store” The glittering gala will be held on Sunday, February 9, 2014 at the glamourous ballroom of the Renaissance Doha City Center Hotel in West Bay. The organizers are keeping details

of the show very much under wraps, but they promise to stage a bigger and better event. “By producing the first edition of the Qatar Choice Awards last year, we were surprised by the amazingly positive feedback that we decided to develop it more for the upcoming years and to connect the events industry with the business industry,” says George Ayached, General Manager of IFP Qatar. “Prepare to be dazzled for another beautiful edition.”

History Of The Awards

The Qatar Choice Award is an honour bestowed by Qatar Happening Magazine, ILoveQatar. Net, IFP Qatar and Naycom Qatar to recognize excellence in the entertainment and hospitality industries, including restaurants, hotels, personalities and live events. “We are very proud of the Qatar Choice Awards and what we have accomplished in such a short period of time,” says Jorge Granda, Sales and Communications Manager for Qatar Happening Magazine. “We are sure it will quickly become the most important awards ceremony in the country and the region.”

The QCA is the nation’s first and only platform where the final choice of winners is chosen completely by the public. By putting the choice in the public’s hands, the awards program will recognize the industry’s best and brightest- not through criteria laid out by judges, rather by allowing the public (which experiences these services everyday) to vote on Qatar’s best.

The idea of awarding the best in the hospitality industry was conceived by Qatar Happening a few years ago. The winners were announced in the pages of the popular magazine on a monthly basis. The award ceremony itself was initiated at DIYAFA in November 2011 and was first called the QH and ILoveQatar.Net Awards. The award ceremony was held at the Doha Exhibition Center.

100% Public Choice

Voting System Voting is simple. Visit www.qatarchoiceawards.com and sign up for free. Once you’ve registered you

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Host Steven Keith Tart presents Luke Noble from The Four Seasons with the 2012 award for Best Individual in the Hospitality Industry

Videographer Alex Klim catches every moment of last year’s gala on film, while The Art of Business’ Executive Director Moona Masri-Whitice smiles for the camera

QCA 2013 Categories

Doha Jazz kept the vibe upbeat all night long with their soulful sounds

can access the list of nominees and select your favourite – or nominate one of your own! After the nominees are tallied, the top five finalists in each category will be announced and you can vote again for the winners. This competition is, after all, about you and the faces and places you love in Doha. n

1. Favourite Live Music - Band 2. Favourite Newcomer (Restaurant or Hotel) 3. Favourite Frozen Treats 4. Favourite Delicatessen - Bakery & Chocolate Shop 5. Favourite Family Ambiance 6. Favourite South - East Asian Concept 7. Favourite Themed Restaurant - Creative Concept 8. Favourite Ramadan Tent 9. Favourite Spa 10. Favourite Chef 11. Favourite DJ 12. Favourite Hotel 13. Favourite GM 14. Favourite Individual in Hospitality Industry 15. Favourite Brunch 16. Favourite Arabic Restaurant 17. Favourite Beachfront 18. Favourite Fast Food Chain 19. Favourite Fitness Center 20. Favourite Nightlife Ambiance 21. Favourite Stand-Alone Restaurant 22. Favourite Café 23. Favourite Outdoor Venue -Terrace 24. Favourite Event in 2013 25. Favourite View 26. Favourite Bar, Lounge and Pub

For more information please visit: www.qatarchoiceawards.com www.qatarhappening.com www.iloveqatar.net.

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Entertainment

Reggae Roots

at The St. Regis Doha, the band expanded and brought Rhesa as a vocalist – this has been a great addition to the reggae nights!

As told to Jorge Granda Photography by Jessie Palanca

Reggae nights at The St. Regis Doha’s Oyster Bay are back in full swing with Buggy Nhakente and the Fully Loaded Band. This season the island crooners welcome female vocalist Rhesa Garnes as a full-time member of the ensemble. QH caught up with the group before one of their sets.

Buggy has recently picked up guitar again and started playing it on a more serious level; he feels this is one of the great musical developments he has experienced here in Doha. He also recorded an album while here in Qatar that is being sold internationally.

QH: Buggy last year you performed during the first season of reggae on the beach. Tell us about that experience and what it’s like to be back?

QH: Are you bringing a new show? What is the difference between the show from last year and the shows starting now?

BN: [It was a] bit of a different start as reggae was new in Doha. We started with some smaller performances at The St. Regis Doha. The first performance we had 10 guests listening – quite a bit of a difference to what reggae nights are now! It only took two months of playing in smaller venues and the St. Regis Doha saw an opportunity to grow reggae nights; that’s when we started playing at the beach and the audience just grew. It has been very exciting to come back after the summer break and still have the same audience; they are growing and sharing the music with us.

QH: Tell us a little about the band and how it got together. BN & RG: The band started up in Barbados as a group called Red Alarm which consisted of Buggy and four other band members. As time went on the group members changed and soon Buggy was the only original member of the group. The band grew again and was renamed The Skeleton. Buggy Nhakente had a nick name, he was known as Buggy Fully Loaded because he has so [much] music in his head that is constantly flowing in and out. Buggy is always listening to music, even when he sleeps; his head is always full of music! Eventually we changed the name of the band to Buggy Nhakente and the Fully Loaded Band. Coming back for the second season

BN: We have over 400 songs in our repertoire, songs we know by heart. It’s a mix of covers and originals – some we have written. We usually try to balance with songs the audience will remember [and] some new songs we have written ourselves. We create a set list that we will stick to for a short while and then they change every now and then to keep it fun and interesting for the audience and for ourselves. When creating music we are inspired by many different things – for example the atmosphere around us,

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If you haven’t come out to one of the reggae nights yet, you’re missing out! Let Buggy (centre) and his band get you swaying to the rhythm

love, friendships, frustrations and much more. Sometimes the inspiration will start with the beat and sometimes with the lyrics – each song is different and unique in its creation. QH: What has been the reception of the public this time around? BN: The crowd is hungry for good energy. The reggae nights usually start with something slow and relaxing, something to unwind. Then we let the energy build through the night until everyone is bouncing and having fun. Reggae is for everyone and the music can sometimes hypnotize [and] take over and sharing the music is very special. We give energy to the crowd and we get plenty back as well, it really is a great atmosphere. QH: How does it feel to be bringing your special kind of sound to Qatar? RG: Coming to Qatar has been very rewarding. It’s been an opportunity to refresh my spirituality. Qatar has such a rich, strong culture and the people show great discipline, which inspires [you] to look at yourself and your beliefs and to

think about who we really are. It’s a big deal to be in the Middle East and at The St. Regis Doha. When my mum heard I was going to the Middle East she worried, but I said that Doha is different. Arriving I was amazed with the love for fine things, the national clothing and the desire for beauty that is in the culture and you can see everywhere. We were taken aback by the luxury and facilities at The St. Regis Doha; we are very happy to be here. It’s a beautiful country, we enjoy playing music and we are blessed to share the energy. There is a lot of positive energy with people we meet here – the staff at The St. Regis, the audience and the people you meet in Doha. We receive a lot of feedback from the audience; it’s great that they come up and chat with us after the shows and we get to connect. Being at The St. Regis Doha has allowed us to meet and play with a lot of the jazz artists from Jazz At Lincoln Center Doha. [There are] unique opportunities to make music together and unite different music styles -- it has been very special. n

Rhesa Garnes joins the ensemble this year as female lead vocalist

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Entertainment

Festival

Fun Guide By Amy Bassett Images courtesy of Holy Ship!

This months’ festival guide is a straight ‘rave recommendation’. If you’ve ever considered taking a cruise vacation but decided against it because cruises are reserved for relics, then allow me to introduce you to Holy Ship!

his nautical outing is a three-day dance festival on the MSC Divina cruise-liner setting sail out of Miami, Florida. It’s a floating playground, a mega-club experience set adrift on the Atlantic. This ship leaves the harbour with a cargo full of the world’s best electronic artists and 2,550 of the most dedicated dance addicts. So dear passengers, don’t forget your dancing shoes! Holy Ship! is a relative new-kid-on-the-block, making its debut in 2012, yet is has already established itself as a hot ticket, selling out faster and faster each year. Let’s say you’re one of the lucky ones who manages to score one of these hotcake tickets - here’s how your weekend will play out. Boarding begins at 1:00 p.m. on Thursday afternoon and the boat sets sail at 7:00 p.m. Once the sound system cranks up on Thursday night, it really doesn’t stop until Sunday morning! Make no mistake - this one is STRICTLY for the ravers!

Check into your cabin on one of the thirteen passenger decks and then prepare for a dance marathon. By night, the ship is awash with discotheque devastation: the cream of the worlds’ electronica crop serve up their best aural desserts from 10:00 p.m. until sunrise in a variety of venues across the ship. Bump and grind your way through nightclubs, bars, theatres and ballrooms where the speakers will be dripping with the latest heat from the DJ crates. Daily beach parties make a first appearance on the program this year, so for those with genuine boogie stamina, the daylight hours can be spent carving up some sand on two different private Bahamian beaches on both Friday and Saturday. Then it’s back to the boat for more! The 2014 line-up will have EDM fans frothing: Skrillex, Duck Sauce, Diplo, Boys Noize, Zedd, Laidback Luke, A-Trak, Disclosure, Armand Van Helden, Maceo Plex, Claude Von Stroke,

Grammy-award-winning DJ Skrillex (left) scratches the deck aboard ship

Flosstradamus, Flume, Just Blaze and Pharrell Williams are just a taste of the artists on board. All of the artists’ on the bill play two sets so you’re guaranteed to catch all of your favourites over the weekend. And of course, you’re on a ship! Know what that means? There is no backstage escape for the performers; the entire floating club is an ‘AllAccess Area’. There’s a sparkling chance that you end up sharing an elevator with Pharrell or bumping the buffet with Flume.

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To add to the dancing, partying, partying, dancing and partying, there is a schedule of fun and quirky artist-hosted activities to keep you entertained. In past years these have included The Greatest Mad Decent Scavenger Hunt hosted by Diplo; Zedd’s Poker Tournament and The Single Malt Invitational with the ‘moombahton’ man himself, Dillon Francis. Way to rub shoulders with your favourite DJ! The MSC Divina is the swishest new ship in the MSC fleet, named after legendary screen siren Sophia Loren. Boasting all the usual facilities and then some, you can retreat to a fitness centre, try some table tennis, take a yoga class, lounge in the infinity pool, pamper yourself at the Balinese spa or get the full Turkish treatment in the onboard hammam. No? Then perhaps the aqua-park, the 4D cinema or the art gallery will entertain you between checking out the music. Needless to say, this ship has it all. So how much will this luxury long weekend set you back in clams? Tickets range from $549 USD per person for a cabin-share with three friends to $1,499 per person for a deluxe suite with a balcony. The

Jam-packed crowds and killer tunes keep this boat afloat

ticket price includes breakfast, lunch and dinner buffet and midnight snack services, with food available around the clock. Adult beverages and typical hotel services (laundry, spa etc.) cost extra. Our advice? Rock your bathing suit for the weekend and forget about laundry altogether! Holy Ship! is for those seriously committed to sweating out the calories by cutting rugs and throwing shapes and if this sounds like you, gather up your sea-legs and jump in, tickets won’t be around for long. n

Holy Ship! Flights: QR 3,700 Doha to Miami (subject to variation) Accommodation: Included in the ticket price. Your cabin is your oyster! Food & Entertainment: Meals and soft drinks beverages are included in the ticket price, everything else is extra. Website: www.holyship.com

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Entertainment Also This Month

Tempt your taste buds with a tasting platter of jumbo prawns and tender crab cakes

Help A Good Cause

SOCIAL, the hot new Exclusive Women’s Only Club in Qatar will be hosting its first event at Crystal Lounge in the W Doha. Ladies will be able to sign up for a Social membership offering them discounts and exclusive promotions with social partners. Fifty percent of all profits will be donated to Lauren Patterson’s Memorial Fund. Membership holders will be automatically entered with one ticket for the SOCIAL Prize Draw. Additional tickets can be purchased at the door. When: Wednesday, Dec 11 Where: Crystal Lounge, The W Doha Timing: 7:00 p.m. till 10:00 p.m. Why: To mingle with fabulous ladies, be part of SOCIAL and support women’s causes Contact: Check out SOCIAL’s page on Facebook and become a member.

Doha Jazz Presents The Sara Oschlag Big Band

Party Hoppin’ Happenings By Jorge Granda Photography by Jessie Palanca

Do you want to have your favourite drink named after you, or support a good cause while having a good time? What about getting the inside track on the coolest New Year’s Eve party? We’ve got all the details! 15 Minutes Of Fame

Sara is being flown to Qatar for this special event on New Year’s Eve at the Hilton Doha. Her big band plays a mix of modern upbeat classics with accompaniment from an eight-piece jazz ensemble with saxophones, trumpet, trombone, double bass, piano, guitar and drums. This is going to be the real deal happening right here in Doha – so get ready to bring in the New Year with an extra big bang! Where: Hilton Doha, Nashira ballroom Ticket prices: Start from QR 395 Dress code: Party style Timing: 7:30 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. Contact: Call 4423-3333

The Renaissance Doha City Center is one of our city’s hottest spots for dining and nightlife. Not only do they have amazing outlets, but they make sure to come up with creative concepts to keep folks coming back for more. One of their newest and more unique offers can be tried at the one-and-only New York Steakhouse. At this elegant restaurant regular guests can have their favourite cocktail named after them every day of the week. For example, if your drink of choice is a Manhattan then for one day your name will be added to the name of the drink, which is put on display in the middle of the bar, literally on a pedestal for everyone to see. I went to experience this fun addition to happy hour and noticed it’s proven popular. I was told by the manager that not only is the drink named after a regular patron, but the staff also ensure it’s to their exact taste and liking. Whenever a new

A strawberry mojito moc ktail takes center stag e.

loyal guest gets his or her cocktail named, they receive a complimentary first round on the house. A first of its kind around these parts, it’s a rewarding treat to those who spent a lot of good old-fashioned quality time at the New York Steakhouse. n New York Steakhouse Location: Renaissance Doha City Center Timings: Lunch, Sun-Thurs 12:00 noon till 3:00 p.m. Dinner, Sun-Fri 6:30 p.m. till 11:30 p.m. Dress Code: Smart casual Smoking: Yes (smoking area only) Contact info: 4419-6100

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Entertainment

. . . 1 , 2 , 3 Happy New Year 2014! Clear your New Year’s Eve calendar and ring in 2014 with our roundup of the hottest parties and dinners that will have you celebrating like a star this December 31. THE ANVIL ROOMS Midnight In Manhattan

Dec 31: Enjoy an evening of New York style! Indulge in a gourmet dinner with signature cocktails, sit back and enjoy as The Anvil Rooms transports you into the New Year. QR 800 per person. For more information call 4499-0685.

CROWNE PLAZA DOHA THE BUSINESS PARK Ole, Ole, Ole!

Dec 31: Misturado. Join in for the only Football World Cup New Year’s Eve Party in Doha as Brazil gets set to host the 2014 tournament. Entrance will be free and all are welcome to wear their football dress to receive a complimentary welcome drink. From 8:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. For more information call 4408-7777.

THE FOUR SEASONS New Year’s Eve Celebration

Dec 31: Pearl Lounge. Experience a night of glitz and glamour at the highly-anticipated Silver Party! An all-time favourite, the famous Pearl Lounge New Year’s Eve Silver Party is back! Dress up in your silver best and hit the dance-floor as their resident DJ plays classic tunes. Dance the night away and welcome in the New Year in style! For more information call 4429-8290.

Dec 31: Il Teatro, Nusantao, Arabica. At Il Teatro Chef Aldo and his team present a sublime four-course gourmet menu. QR 500, set menu inclusive of soft drinks or QR 630, set menu inclusive of soft drinks and Italian vino. Nusantao restaurant will feature an evening to remember with live cooking stations and a widespread buffet. QR 330 inclusive of soft drinks, or QR 415 inclusive of soft drinks, bubbly and vino. When the clock strikes twelve, join the countdown to an exhilarating New Year’s celebration at Arabica to the beat of their DJ’s contemporary music. For more information call 4494-8888.

THE GRAND HYATT Vegas New Year’s Party

HILTON DOHA New Year’s Eve

DOHA MARRIOTT New Year’s Eve At Pearl Lounge

Dec 31: Dunes. When someone says Vegas, you think of amazing celebrations and parties of nights you will remember. Where better to celebrate New Year’s than at the hotel’s Vegas-themed New Year’s party at Dunes. QR 200 per person including a welcome bubbly drink. For more information call 7021-8094.

Dec 31: Hilton. Ring in the New Year in a vibrant atmosphere. Celebrate and party with a nine-piece big band and DJ. Hilton will also provide a lavish buffet and live cooking stations, a welcome cocktail for QR 395 per person, or for QR 550 per person with house drinks and bubbly. For more information call 4423-3333.

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HOLIDAY VILLA New Year’s Eve BBQ Nite

Dec 31: Lagenda. Enjoy New Year’s Eve at this distinguished restaurant. QR 168 for adults, QR 88 for children between the ages of 4 to 12 years old. From 7:00 p.m. till 1:00 a.m. For more information call 4408-4220.

KEMPINSKI RESIDENCES & SUITES New Year’s Eve Superstar Package

Dec 31: Aroma and The Lounge. Countdown like a celebrity! A red carpet awaits you to party like a rock star and welcome the New Year in style. Aroma treats you with a five-course gala menu, prepared with the most excellent ingredients and curated by the Executive Chef. Then shift to The Lounge and relish in the welcome glass of bubbly in the chic setting of the bar. Dance the night away with their DJ and countdown to 2014. QR 1,200 per person unlimited house beverages included in the price. From 8:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. For more information call 4405-3333.

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA New Year’s Eve

Dec 31: Lava. This New Year’s Eve visit lava and enjoy a vintage Great Gatsby-themed party with a guest DJ. QR 150 for entrance including one drink. From 8:00 p.m. till 11:30 p.m. After 11:30 p.m. QR 200 for entrance only. Doors will open between Lava and Paloma. For more information call 4484-4444.

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA THE CITY New Year’s Eve On The Bridge

Dec 31: Prime and The Square. Enjoy a fabulous New Year’s Eve with an international DJ, balloon drop and countdown. QR 100, from 8:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. For more information call 4015-8888.

ORYX ROTANA Happy New Year!

Dec 31: Sky Lounge. Find the perfect New Year’s Eve celebration right here! Join in at Sky Lounge from 8:00 p.m.for a gourmet buffet and live music entertainment. Celebrate with family and friends and enjoy a wide spread of dishes including Middle Eastern specialties, mezze and cuts from the carvery station, rounded off perfectly with some mouth-watering desserts. There will be live piano performances followed by music from the resident DJ on the mezzanine. The New Year’s Eve buffet costs QR 199 for food only. For more information call 4402-3333.

SHERATON DOHA

Dec 31: Irish Harp. Rock into the New Year! The Irish Harp’s Back To Back Band will rock you with popular sounds from 8:00 p.m. until the early morning hours! Bring along all your friends and celebrate an unforgettable evening. QR 210 including two standard drinks. For more information call 4484-4444.

MÖVENPICK HOTEL DOHA 3, 2, 1 Happy New Year!

THE DIPLOMATIC CLUB New Years Eve

Dec 31: Jazz Up. Dance the night away to the sizzling beats of the DJ at Jazz Up and celebrate amidst the glitz and glamour with a fine selection of beverage and snacks. Free entrance. For more information call 4429-1111.

Dec 31: Le Grill. Enjoy a succulent New Year’s Eve dinner at Le Grill. Set Menu for QR 250 excluding beverages with Aoud player as entertainment. For more information call 4484-7412.

THE RITZ-CARLTON DOHA

THE ST. REGIS DOHA Chicago New Year’s Party

Dec 31: Admiral’s Club. Be dazzled at The Ritz-Carlton New Year’s Eve party. Be entertained by the band and DJ for QR 250 inclusive of one glass of sparkling vino. No reservations, first come, first served. For more information call 4448-4800.

RADISSON BLU New Years Eve Dinners

Dec 31: Bentleys Grill. Offers an experience where you will feel welcomed into ‘Club Bentleys’ for a few hours while you taste your way through an elegant gourmet experience. Pier 12. Dive straight into 2014 with Chef Jurgen’s special celebration menu, lovingly prepared to showcase delightful natural flavours of the deep. Maxims. Offering up a classical dining experience for our more discerning guests. QR 360 per person inclusive of welcome drink. For more information call 4428-1555.

RENAISSANCE DOHA CITY CENTER New Year’s Eve Set Menu

Dec 31: New York Steakhouse. Enjoy of a variety of delicious food including crab, wasabi and beetroot salad; Canadian lobster; saffron mussel soup; roast saddle of venison or US Black Angus with foie gras; pistachio and coconut mousse parfait. QR 450 excludes beverages. For more information call 4419-5000.

SHARQ VILLAGE & SPA New Year’s Eve In Cigar Lounge

Dec 31: Visit the classic lounge and say good bye to 2013. QR 85 per person, from 9:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. One welcome drink and pop crackers to start the countdown to welcome the New Year. For more information call 4425-6666.

Dec 31: Jazz At Lincoln Center. All that jazz and the roaring 20’s glamour of Chicago is the New Year’s party theme. Bring in the New Year on the dance-floor with award-winning New Yorkbased jazz vocalist Cyrille Aimee and her band. Dress as your favourite Chicago star and enter the dress to impress competition. Three different New Year’s Eve packages available starting at QR 495. For more information call 4446-0106.

THE TORCH DOHA New Year’s Eve Dinner

Dec 31: Flying Carpet. Start your New Year countdown at Flying Carpet restaurant. Buffet menu at QR 240 per person including selected beverages. Special price for children between the ages of 6 -12 at QR 120. For more information call 4446-5600

LA CIGALE New Year’s Eve

Dec 31: Madison Piano Bar. The rocking voice of Lebanese singer Fady Andraos along with the talented one-man-show Ramy Mard and DJ Chadi Axon will unforgettably turn the night over to 2014 in a stylish sparkling ambiance. QR 550 including a scrumptious dinner. For more information call 4428-8665 or 5518-8008. Membership required.

W DOHA New Years Eve

Dec 31: Crystal. Settle in and toast to the tunes of DJ Lady Bex with Emma on saxophone and Jessy on strings. QR 200 entrance fee for men, QR 100 entrance fee for ladies. Limited table packages available. For more information call 3017-7049. n

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Entertainment Listings RECOMMENDS

KEMPINSKI RESIDENCES & SUITES

Start The Weekend

Thursday: The Lounge. The weekend starts at The Lounge. Squeeze Thursday till the last drop, have fun and experience the most urban European bar in Doha along with beats from the Low Frequency DJs. Try out the cocktails of the future, now. Ingredients: Love, fun and class. For more information call 4405-3325 or restaurants.doha@kempinski.com or www.kempinski.com/doha.

PROMOTIONS HILTON DOHA Punchline Comedy Club

Dec 10: Have a laugh at the Punchline Comedy Club for QR 150 for tickets only to the show. Or, include a buffet dinner and two house beverages for QR 300. For more information call 4423-3333.

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA Fun On The Beach

Dec 6: Beachfront. Register your team and participate in the yearly Fun on the Beach event! Outdoor sports activities, food and beverage stations and DJ live entertainment. Doors open from 2:00 p.m. till 9:00 p.m. For more information call 4484-4851 or 4484-4444.

THE RITZ-CARLTON DOHA Art of Cocktail Classes

Dec 13: Habanos. Meet the Habanos team for an immersion in the art of creating exciting drinks for QR 225, from 5:00 p.m. till 7:00 p.m. For more information call 4484-8504.

W DOHA Hasta La Vista!

Dec 17: Wahm. Warm up with this festive season party. Get together at Wahm and mix and mingle with at hip crowd for QR 180, from 6:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. Ring in for special group offers or to reserve your cabana. For more information call 4453-5323.

Big Friday Night

Dec 20: Wahm Lounge. French-Canadian DJ Nicholas Sechaud is no stranger to the international club and fine dining scene. Currently resident DJ at the world-renowned Siddhartha Lounge at Grosvenor House Dubai, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Nicholas has done a number of residencies across famed bars, clubs, lounges and restaurants worldwide from Italy, Spain, Monaco and Turkey to Uzbekistan and the Philippines. For more information call 4453-5323.

EVERY WEEK CROWNE PLAZA DOHA THE BUSINESS PARK Happy Hours

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

GOKULAM PARK DOHA Happy Hour

Mon-Sat: D’Illlusion. Enjoy a trendy lounge bar with hip aesthetics and chilled-out rhythms. This hangout will have you relaxing in style with its slinky cocktails and delightful snacks. At D’Illusion socializing will never go out of style. From 6:30 p.m. till 11:30 p.m. For more information call 4470-8888.

rized are catego All listingsInclusion is limited per hotel. ility of space, with to availab en to advertisers. priority giv

Crew & Hotelier Night

Tuesdays: D’Illusion. Enjoy a night for all crew and hoteliers, from 6:30 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. For more information call 4470-8888.

HILTON DOHA Happy Hour At Zawaya

Daily: Join in at Zawaya lounge for the happy hour with the best view in Doha. Offering special prices on selected beverages along with delicious bites and the marvellous view of the Arabian Gulf. A happy hour that hasn’t gone happier! For more information call 4423-3333.

KEMPINSKI RESIDENCES & SUITES Soulful Sunday Nights

Sundays: The Lounge. Discover the talented voice of Kéyali Mayaga, the new singer at The Lounge. Revel in blues and soul sounds, sip your favourite cocktail and sample fine savoury bites. From 9:00 p.m. till 12:00 a.m. For more information call 4405-3325 or email restaurants.doha@kempinski.com or visit www.kempinski.com/doha.

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Entertainment Listings MIX & FUSE Happy Hour

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

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA New Happy Hour

Daily: Paloma. Enjoy the new Happy Hour with a special Tex-Mex express menu at unbelievable prices. Make your choice from the selection of appetizers, mains and desserts and compliment it with a selected beverage. Try a 3-course Tex Mex Express Dinner Menu at QR 99 only with 50% off all beverages by the glass. Offer is valid from 5:00 p.m. till 7:00 p.m. only, last order at 6:45 p.m. For more information call 4484-4919 or 4484-4444.

Hospitality Night

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

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA THE CITY After Work Evenings

Sat-Thurs: Hive. Unwind and relax at Hive after a hard day at work. From 5:00 p.m. till 7:00 p.m. Buy one, get one free on selected beverages. For more information call 4015-8888, or email doharestaurants@ihg.com.

Hotelier Night

Tuesdays: Hive. From 6:00 p.m. onwards, buy one get one free on selected beverages. For more information call 4015-8888, or email doharestaurants@ihg.com.

LA CIGALE Ladies Night With DJ Roger Choueiry

Sundays: Madison Piano Bar. Save your Sundays for the vibrant Ladies Night and dedicate your favourite songs to your special one. Ladies joining in will enjoy one welcome drink on the house. Open from 6:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. Membership required. For more information call 4428-8665 or 5518-8008

ORYX ROTANA Crew Night

Mondays: The Jazz Club. Crew night gives you more time to bond with those who matter most. Daily from 6:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. Join them and enjoy 20% off the total bill with the exception of bottled spirits and vinos. For more information call 4402-3333.

Hospitality Night

Mondays: The Jazz Club. Every Monday is a great date for our fellow hoteliers, crew members and all hospitality staff to come and enjoy the best notes of jazz being played by their in-house band Hayway. Benefit from a 25% discount on the total food and beverage bill. Be sure to check in early for a great night! Hoteliers can invite up to 3 guests. For more information call 4402-3333.

THE DIPLOMATIC CLUB BBQ Donut

Daily: Looking to set sail on the Arabian Gulf, searching for an exclusive dining place or a fun experience? With seating for up to 8 people, the BBQ Donut will take you along the West Bay shores to enjoy unparalleled views of the city while savouring an exquisite dining experience. QR.180 includes chilled juices, mineral water and soft drinks. Rental fees: QR 450 for 1 hour, QR 800 for 2 hours and QR 200 for every additional 30 minutes. For more information call 4484-7450 or email spa.recreation@dclub.com.qa.

THE RITZ-CARLTON Salsa

Sundays: Admiralâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Club. Come and dance to the beats of a Latino live band playing salsa and kizomba music at Admiralâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s lower floor. For more information call 4484-8663 or email dilip.kumar@ritzcarlton.com.

Retail Night

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

THE ST. REGIS DOHA Ladies Night

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

High Heels Night

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

Reggae Nights On The Beach

Wed, Thurs & Fri: Oyster Bay. Get into the rhythm of the Caribbean every Wednesday, Thursday and Friday. Kick off your shoes, chill-out on the beach and enjoy live reggae music by Buggy Nakhente and the Fully Loaded band with singer Rhesa Garnes. Entry is free and on Wednesdays, ladies get a complimentary second drink. From 8:30 p.m. For more information call 4446-0106 or email diningreservations@stregis.com.

SHARQ VILLAGE & SPA Hotelier Night

Monday: The Lounge. Hotel staff can enjoy 30% off the total bill in The Cigar Lounge every Monday evening from 8:00 p.m. to midnight. For more information call 4425-6666.

Happy Hours

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

WEEKENDS CROWNE PLAZA DOHA THE BUSINESS PARK Liquidity Nights

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

THE FOUR SEASONS Beach Bar And Lounge

Thursdays: The most-awaited Beach Bar and Lounge is back. The perfect place to chill, relax and start your weekend off right. Offering a wide selection of beverages matched with their relaxing lounge music. Every Thursday from 7:00 p.m. till 1:00 a.m. For more information call 4494-8888.

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INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA THE CITY Disco Night

Thursdays: Hive. DJ from 9:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m., QR 50 entrance for men. For more information call 4015-8888 or email doharestaurants@ihg.com.

Bottle & Bucket Day

Fridays: Hive. Selected bottles at QR 500 and bucket offers from 5:00 p.m. onwards. For more information call 4015-8888 or email doharestaurants@ihg.com.

LA CIGALE Friday Night Fever

Fridays: Club 7. An exceptional atmosphere and rockin’ tunes with renowned DJ Roger Choueiry. Ladies joining in will enjoy one welcome drink on the house. Open from 6:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. Membership required. For more information call 4428-8665 or 5518-8008.

ORYX ROTANA Boys’ Night On The Town

Saturdays: The Jazz Club. It’s finally boys’ night out! Every Saturday enjoy a 25% discount on spirit bottles with the purchase of cigars. For more information call 4402-3333.

SHARQ VILLAGE & SPA Barbecue By The Pool

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

Crew Night

Saturdays: Cigar Lounge. Enjoy 30% off the total bill for all airline crew every Saturday in the Cigar Lounge between 8:00 p.m. and midnight. Fly on down! For more information call 4425-6666.

W DOHA Bubbly Lounge

Tues-Sat: Crystal. Chill-out with DJ Suzee X in the Bubbly Lounge from 7:00 p.m. till 10:00 p.m. and receive a 50% discount on all beverages. For more information call 4453-5135.

See us online! om www.qatarhappening.c

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Entertainment Directory

Nightclubs, Bars & Lounges Bar Rancho’s Grand Regal Hotel

4425-6666

Lava Lounge InterContinental Doha

4484-4444

Shehrazad Radisson Blu

4428-1428

Belgian Café InterContinental Doha

4484-4444

Le Club Mercure Grand Hotel

4446-2222

Sky View La Cigale

Bubbles on Two Radisson Blu

4428-1428

Champions West End Renaissance Doha

Liquidity Crowne Plaza – The Business Park

4419-6100

Cigar Lounge Sharq Village & Spa

Manhattan Radisson Blu

4428-1428

4425-6666

Marina Nightclub Ritz-Carlton Doha

4448-4800

Club 7 La Cigale

4428-8888

Crystal Lounge W Doha

4453-5135

Dunes Lounge Grand Hyatt

4448-1234

Glo Cocktail Bar West End Renaissance Doha Habanos Ritz-Carlton Doha

4419-6100 4484-8000

Jazz at Lincoln Center The St. Regis Doha

4446-0000

Jazz Club Oryx Rotana

4402-3333

Misturado Crowne Plaza Doha – The Business Park

4408-7777

Orion Radisson Blu

4428-1428

Oyster Bay & Bar The St. Regis Doha

4446-0105

Paloma InterContinental Doha

4484-4444

Pearl Lounge Doha Marriott

4429-8888

Qube Radisson Blu

4428-1428

4428-8888

Spike’s Lounge Doha Golf Club

4496-0777

Strata Lounge InterContinental Doha The City

4015-8888

The Irish Harp Sheraton Doha

4485-4444

The Library Radisson Blu

4428-1428

The Library Bar & Cigar Lounge Four Seasons 4494-8888 The Lounge Kempinski Residence & Suites

4405-3325

Vintage Lounge The St. Regis Doha

4446-0105

Wahm W Doha

4453-5353

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Arts & Culture

s k c i P p o T ’s This Month

VCUQatar MFA Thesis Exhibition by Lina Mahusain

Katara Nigel Kennedy In Concert Dec 27: Katara Opera House. For over twenty-five years Nigel Kennedy has been acknowledged as one of the world’s leading violin virtuosos and is, without doubt, one of the most important violinists Britain has ever produced. His virtuoso technique, unique talent and mass appeal have brought fresh perspectives to both the classical and contemporary repertoire. He is the best selling classical violinist of all time and will perform at Katara for one night only. Starts at 8:00 p.m. Tickets available at Virgin Megastores and online at www.tickets.virginmegastore.me. For more information visit www.katara.net.

Museum Of Islamic Ar t

Steel And Gold – Historic Swords From The MIA Collection Dec 12: Part of their Thursday Lates program, join the curator for a personalized tour of the Steel and Gold exhibition. Starts at 6:00 p.m. For more information RSVP to falhitmi@qma.org.qa.

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Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra

Han-Na Chang’s Debussy And Ravel

Dec 6: Aspire Zone Ladies Club. Han-Na Chang, music director, Robert Schumann: Symphony No. 4 in D Minor, Op. 120. Claude Debussy: Prélude à L’après-midi d’un faune, Maurice Ravel: Daphnis et Chloé Suite No. 2. Starts at 7:30 p.m., QR 50 for general admission tickets. For more information visit www.qatarphilharmonicorchestra.org.

Dec 4, 2013 - Jan 9, 2014: The Saffron Hall at VCUQatar. The MFA thesis projects investigate a specific issue or problem in design, synthesized through the development of a design process, investigative research and an individual project of complex scale and scope. The MFA in design studies is the first graduate design program in the Gulf region. Placed amidst a great transformation of the state of Qatar, the program gives students a unique chance to both learn from this historical process and to influence its future development. Open to the public. For more information call 4402-0555 or visit www.qatar.vcu.edu.

Mathaf Adel Abdessemed: L’age d’or

Dec 1, 2013-Jan 5, 2014: Mathaf: Arab Museum of Modern Art is pleased to present a landmark exhibition by Adel Abdessemed entitled L’âge d’or. Curated by Pier Luigi Tazzi this exhibition will showcase recent works including drawings, paintings, sculptures and videos, many created by the artist especially for this show in Doha. Working across a wide range of media, Abdessemed transforms well-known materials and imagery into charged artistic declarations. For more information visit www.qma.org.qa.

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Arts & Culture

Artist Damien Hirst poses in front of one of his famed spot paintings

Qatar UK

Bids Farewell

Images courtesy of Qatar UK 2013

After twelve months of cultural events spanning London and Doha, the Qatar UK 2013 Year of Culture wraps up this December. Don’t miss out on the chance to take in the final lineup of workshops, exhibitions, lectures and much more. QH has the full roster Doha Book Fair Dec 4-14 Doha Exhibition Center An annual regional fair, this year the UK is the guest of honour with books from authors from all over Britain featuring prominently.

Fashion Exchange Dec 5-7 W Doha A fashion show at the W Doha showcasing traditional Qatari abayas and jalabiyas accompanied by accessories from high-profile British designers.

Literary Translation Summit Dec 8-12 Doha, Location TBA The five-day workshop will focus on the business of literary translation and the publishing process.

International Schools Football Tournament Dec 12-18 Aspire Zone A competition for British, Qatari and international schools in Doha to play for the Qatar UK trophy.

DFI UK Cinema: Showcase Monthly throughout 2013 Museum of Islamic Art Auditorium This series of monthly screenings throughout 2013 celebrates the power of classic and contemporary British film, presenting a stellar line-up of films across multiple genres.

Rock on Top of Another Rock

Until March 6, 2014 Hyde Park, London Rock on Top of Another Rock is a unique installation by the world-renowned artist duo Fischli/Weiss in Kensington Gardens. Available for viewing during Hyde Park opening hours, the exhibit is presented by the Serpentine Gallery and The Royal Parks, in collaboration with the Qatar Museums Authority.

Hajj – The Journey Through Art

Oct 9, 2013-Jan 5, 2014 Museum of Islamic Art This Museum of Islamic Art (MIA)-curated exhibition, in collaboration with the British Museum, takes visitors on a journey exploring and illuminating the Muslim pilgrimage of Hajj.

Authors and educators convene for the Literary Translation Summit

It presents artworks from MIA and objects from Qatari collections, many of which have never before been displayed in public. The exhibition focuses on the history of this pilgrimage through the centuries, examing the rituals of Hajj as depicted through art, the routes taken and the experiences of pilgrims upon their return. The exhibition also includes a special section dedicated to the oral histories and objects of pilgrims from Qatar. An outdoor photography display featuring unique visions of Hajj by five international photographers will run in conjunction with the exhibition. Hajj – The Journey Through Art is complimented by a full program of activities including guided tours, art workshops, lectures and film screenings.

Relics: Damien Hirst Exhibition Oct 10, 2013-Jan 22, 2014 ALRIWAQ Doha Since 1988, when he conceived and curated his first exhibition, Damien Hirst has developed to be the most prominent British artist of his generation. Hirst is known for his famous artworks ‘The Physical Impossibility of Death in the Minds of Someone Living’ and ‘For the Love of God’, his spin paintings and other major installations, such as ‘In and Out of Love’. QMA is hosting the artist’s first solo exhibition in Middle East. n

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Arts & Culture

Music Education

h c a e R s t I s d a e r p S

By Charlie Sands Images courtesy of the Qatar Music Academy Additional photography by Jessie Palanca

From 60 to 500 students in just two years, the Qatar Music Academy is now set to broaden its programs, research and music education to unprecedented levels for this small Gulf nation.

atar Music Academy (QMA) has covered a lot of ground since it first opened its doors in 2011, but now, thanks to a new sponsorship agreement with Occidental Petroleum, the Academy will be able to carry out further musical education, buy more instruments and conduct research which has never been done in Qatar, let alone elsewhere in the Gulf.

A practice ensemble hits all the right notes

QMA Principal Dr. Abdul Ghafour Al Heeti is excited about the ‘extra help’ that Oxy Qatar has given the Academy: “We have five projects running already. And although Qatar Foundation is very generous, in that they support all our operational costs, the facilities, our teachers’ salaries, and subsidize the fees - we still need some extra help.”

The support Oxy Qatar has already provided has enabled the QMA to buy 2,000 books and CDs plus a lot of new instruments. Dr. Al Heeti adds: “Fees are subsidized with Qataris receiving free tuition and non-Qataris getting a discount, so for this reason we need a lot of money which is why we went to the private sector for support.”

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L-R: Anne-Marie Pignéguy, Head of Western Music and Dr. Abdul Ghafour Al Heeti

more extensive research into the music of the Middle East.”

Tricia Ng, age 9, is a Grade 6 violin virtuoso

Anne-Marie Pignéguy, Head of Western Music says the QMA is now at “complete capacity” with 1,008 on the waiting list. “We started with just 60 students and now there are 500 and we have limited capacity here. So in an ideal world we would expand into a much bigger building perhaps.”

“And part of our vision is for our students to graduate and play for the Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra (QPO),” she continues. “Currently all QPO musicians are from abroad, but we would like to make it a home-grown orchestra. This would be our dream.” So as the QMA and its sponsors strive to lay the foundations for musical excellence in Qatar – something which is still a very new discipline in the country, its mission is one of building upon these foundations to create a legacy which will take Qatar closer to its 2030 Vision.

Aside from its two music programs, Music for All and the Academic Music program, the Academy also holds workshops with locallybased and foreign musicians and teachers for schoolchildren in Qatari independent schools and international schools. They also conduct research, which Anne-Marie says they are hoping to do a lot more of in the future.

Anne-Marie says: “We want to create a new generation of music teachers in Qatar, and for there to be university degrees and masters degrees in music which would enable our talented young musicians to stay in this country for their further education in music – something they are currently not able to do.”

She adds: “One of the areas we are looking at moving into, with the support of the private sector, is musical research. There is already some research going on into Arabic music but we would like to expand this and conduct

Dr. Al Heeti adds that music is currently not part of the Qatari National Curriculum but there have been discussions with the Supreme Education Council to incorporate music into education, which is another goal that the QMA has for Qatar.

Now with the injection of QR 1.1 million from Oxy Qatar the future does indeed look bright for the QMA, which will continue to build on its success of the past two years by educating a growing body of talent and by expanding music education into the wider community. “There is a lot to be excited about,” says Dr. Al Heeti. “And we have a lot of ideas. For example, we have also discussed holding Music Therapy Sessions here with the Noor Institute for the Blind and Shafallah.” The QMA currently counts 21% Qataris and 79% other nationalities among its students, with 20 students on a scholarship either because of their exceptional talent or promise, or because they have chosen to play an unusual instrument like the French horn. A half-hour class costs QR 100. Dr Al Heeti looks at the amazing two years which have brought the Academy to where it is today and says: “I am happy with what we have done so far and I am proud of my colleagues because they have done a fantastic job getting to this point in such a short time.” n To learn more about the Qatar Music Academy and its programs and enrolment, visit www.qatarmusicacademy.com.qa.

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Arts & Culture

CMY

: Andalusian Curtain ras

The Sight Between Two E This solo exhibition by Jordanian artist Jihad Al-Ameri will be on display throughout the month of December at Anima Gallery. QH takes a look at his work and inspiration.

he Andalusian Curtain exhibition is an exploration of the female energy and the aesthetic architecture of the Andalusian era, of which the architecture of light is an important attribute. Jihad Al-Ameri was born in Jordan in 1977, but moved to Spain later in life and developed a passion for the country and its art. “Living in Granada during the past few years left a deep impact on my visual perception,” he says. “I was moved by the visual brilliance of Andalusia. As an artist, my aim is to honour this brilliance through modern tools of painting and letter engraving, highlighted by Andalusian poets such as Ibn Khafajah.”

“The Arab civilization in Andalusia had the most significant space in my artistic experience, which came after my work on the Spanish poet Lorca, and the Palestinian poet Mahmoud Darwish,” he continues. “ In the palaces of Alhambra, I observe the mirrors of water and its human effect in reflecting colours and shapes as an indirect invitation for self-reflection. Clear water, mirroring the moving and still shapes surrounding it; alongside poems that tell the story of history.” Andalusian Curtain is a window to the essence of things and a luring past that is still present in our contemporary time. n

Jihad Al-Ameri’s works explore a range of movement and shading with silhouette

When: December 1, 2013 - January 31, 2014 Where: Anima Gallery, The Pearl-Qatar Parcel 17, 30 La Croisette Contact: Call 4002-7437, email art@animagallerylounge.com or visit www.animagallerylounge.com

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Always Designed With You In Mind...

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Arts & Culture Listings RECOMMENDS

Museum Guide

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

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

Museum of Islamic Art & Park The Corniche 4422-4444 infomia@qma.org.qa www.mia.org.qa Open: Wednesday to Monday Closed: Tuesdays

ALRIWAQ DOHA

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

MUSEUM OF ISLAMIC ART Walk-In Gallery Tours

Thurs & Sat: Join their museum guides for a tour of MIA’s outstanding collection of Islamic art objects stretching back over 1,000 years and three continents. No booking required, just turn up! Starts at 2:00 p.m.

ONE OF A KIND VCUQATAR Thread Installation Art by Kate Terry

Dec 1-24: The Gallery at VCUQatar. Londonbased artist Kate Terry creates thread installation art that is nearly invisible at first. Using coloured thread, she creates subtle yet spectacular presence in an empty space. Kate Terry teaches at Camberwell College of Arts and CCW. Open to the public. For more information visit www.qatar.vcu.edu.

WEEKLY IAID Visual Arts

Sat-Thurs: Hilal St., Al-Tadamon Signal, D-Ring Road. The Visual Arts program is a progressive course for Beginners, Intermediate and Advance 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 4432-0974/4441-1234 or visit www.iaidonline.org.

MUSEUM OF ISLAMIC ART MIA Library Visits

Sun, Mon, Wed & Thurs: From 12:00 p.m. till 5:00 p.m. Browse the collection of books and find out more about Islamic art and the museum collections. Visit their dedicated children’s section. For more information visit www.mia.org.qa.

IAID IAID Music Courses

Sat-Thurs: IAID, Hilal St., Al-Tadamon Signal, D-Ring Road. Offers classes in Classical/ Modern Piano, Classical/Acoustic Guitar, Electronic Keyboard and Western Vocals. All music courses incorporate western notations and follow the London College of Music (LCM), University of West London UK syllabus. Examinations are held every six months at IAID by LCM examiners. Non-IAID students are welcome. Call 4432-0974/4441-1234 or 6671-0589/5538-1960. Visit www.iaidonline.org or email enquire@iaidonline.org.

QMA Gallery

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

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

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

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Community

s k c i P p o T ’s This Month

The Grand Hyatt Winter Wonderland Bazaar & Tree Lighting

Philippine Embassy Donations For Typhoon Survivors Ongoing: In an effort to provide support for families in the Philippines who were affected by the devastation caused by typhoon Yolanda, the Philippine embassy is accepting donations of cash, clothing and toiletries to assist with the distribution of relief supplies. If you’re interested in making a contribution please contact Ms. Faye Dela Paz of the Philippine embassy at 4483-1585 or Mr. Lyndon Magsino of the United Filipino Organizations In Qatar at 5569-8990. For more information on how to help visit www.philembassy-qatar.org.

Perform Doha

Sharq Village & Spa 8km-14km Charity Run/Walk Dec 14: Six Senses Spa. Registration starts at 1:30 p.m. for the 11th annual Charity Run/Walk along the Corniche. This health awareness event is in promotion of positive wellbeing. All proceeds collected will be donated to Qatar Charity. For more information visit www.SixSenses.com.

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Dec 6: The Grand Hyatt Doha is staging a Winter Wonderland extravaganza from 12:00 p.m. till 6:00 p.m. on the hotel grounds. Activities include lots of fun shopping, Santa visit with treats, a children’s Winter Wonderland Play Area with bouncy castles, snow-making machine and face-painting, the Doha Singers choir and much more. Tree lighting starts at 5:30 p.m. and the Hyatt’s Winter Wonderland Brunch will also take place on this day to coincide with event. Entrance is free of charge. For more information call 3000-7513.

Musical Theatre Course

Kempinski Residences & Suites Christmas Tree Lighting Dec 5: Gather round the Christmas tree in the lobby at Kempinski. Christmas music, a surprise appearance by Santa, cookies and hot chocolate create a magical festive moment for you and your family. Starts at 5:30 p.m. For more information call 4405-3333.

Saturdays: Doha Players Villa, Education City Area. A musical theatre course aimed at developing the core skills of performance technique, song delivery and basic choreography. The classes incorporate improvisation and drama games to encourage use of imagination, unlocking creativity and building confidence, in a fun and friendly environment. Classes start in January 2014. For more information call Sam McGill at 5560-9253 or email performdoha@gmail.com.

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Community

Simple Things Can Save Lives

By Charlie Sands Images courtesy of One Second Qatar Additional photography by Jessie Palanca

As road-work projects move forward at a rapid pace, much of Doha continues to be one massive construction zone with diversions and roadblocks popping up overnight and speed and driver distraction leading the way in motor vehicle accidents and injuries. Acute and Critical Care surgeon and Injury Prevention Director at Hamad Hospital, Dr. Rafael Consunji, shares with us why Qatar must take action today to prevent more deaths on the roads.

r. Rafael Consunji took up his position as Injury Prevention Director at Hamad one year ago and spends a lot of his time pouring through statistics to make sense of what is actually happening on the roads in Qatar. The reason? To reduce one of the highest roadfatality rates in the region and to learn and apply the lessons of the past from those countries who have spent decades trying to make roads safer. Dr. Raffy as he’s known to his patients and colleagues, points at some of the charts on the wall where he works, and says: “We’ve identified that road crashes are the number one cause of deaths in Qatar. In fact 12.5 per cent of all deaths in Qatar are due to road crashes so it’s one of the big challenges for health to take action on road safety.”

Fortunately Qatar has already taken some strides in reducing the high death toll on the roads and the road-fatality rate has dropped in the last few years. And this year a high-profile educational campaign has been launched to spread awareness of the cause, sponsored by Maersk Oil and under the banner One Second Qatar; but Dr. Raffy knows there is plenty more work to be done. He says: “After a peak of injuries and deaths on the roads in 2006 they started with traffic cameras and they have also improved the trauma care here.” But coming from other countries the figures are still shocking when you realize that you are nine times more likely to die from a road accident in Qatar than in the US for example.”We

Dr. Rafael Consunji says that the majority of motor vehicle-related injuries can be prevented with simple steps in education. Photo credit: Jessie Palanca

know that the three main causes of deaths through roads crashes here are: number one, roll-overs, number two, pedestrians getting hit, and number three, kids not in car-seats,” explains Dr. Raffy. In fact he adds that 100% of deaths to children aged 0-4 in Qatar is down to them being in the front seat. It’s a big problem here but a relatively simple one to solve. There is already a law in Qatar which says that children under the age of 10 should not ride in the front seat; so just by putting children in the back seat, says Dr. Raffy,

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As part of it’s One Second safety campaign the Ministry of Interior is giving out infant car seats to all new parents in Qatar

you can reduce that figure by as much as 40 to 50%. Then by putting them in car-seats you can reduce it by 80 to 90%. Dr. Raffy says that Qatari males are at particularly high risk and in fact, one in six Qatari drivers under the age of 40 have been involved in a road crash that caused serious injury needing hospitalization. “It’s down to exposure, time spent behind the wheel and not wearing a seat belt. But also technical reasons such as using balloon tires designed for the sand on the roads at pressures that the tires were not designed for.” Alarmingly, pedestrian deaths make up one-third of the total figure of road deaths in the country and a lot of the victims are expatriate workers who are more exposed simply because they are traveling on foot.”It sounds simple,” says Dr. Raffy, “but they may just look the wrong way when they cross the road because they come from a left-hand driving country like India or Nepal. Then there are other reasons. Take a worker from a Nepali mountain village. For him the road is a place to hang out and play football perhaps, but now he’s in Doha with an eight-lane highway to cross and he just doesn’t realize the risk.”Dr. Raffy points out some of the positive things that are happening now and that you can expect to see more of over the coming months and years. “It comes down to the three ‘E’s’: Education, Engineering Solutions and Enforcement,” he says.“Firstly the One Second campaign by the Ministry of Interior is doing great things like going out to the industrial areas and showing videos to reinforce those messages about being safe as a pedestrian, and the same campaign is encouraging more child car-seat compliance. In terms of engineering we know that if you separate the pedestrians from the traffic you can reduce accident rates so creating more fly-overs

on busy roads is another step you can expect to see more of. Thirdly, more traffic officers on the roads and more penalties for people who break the law will make a difference and save lives.”Speaking from the heart Dr. Raffy says that Qatar “needs to take action and needs to take action now” to reduce road crashes, deaths and injuries. He adds: “If we take action now then it doesn’t need to take decades for the rates to fall. The lessons have been learned elsewhere so now Qatar has the advantage and can learn from this experience.” In terms of reducing the high death toll among Qataris and changing attitudes Dr. Raffy has this simple suggestion: “You know what would make a world of difference?”, he says. “A national figure who will be a road safety champion and be seen consistently wearing a seat belt and saying: ‘I’m wearing one so why don’t you?” n Road Safety Fact-File • 100% of deaths of children 0-4 year old in cars are front-seat passengers • Talking on mobile phones - even with a hands-free device, is distracting for drivers [equal to being intoxicated] and causes numerous crashes • Being ejected from your vehicle (through not wearing a seat belt) can increase the risk of death by 75% • Ordinary seat belts are not designed for children and can cause injuries to the neck, stomach or intestinal area • Qatari males under the age of 40 are at the highest risk of death on the roads • Properly-fitted car-seats and wearing seat belts can reduce your risk of injury and death by as much as 70 to 80%

As road safety awareness increases, accidents will hopefully decrease as a result

What Is The ONE SECOND QATAR Campaign? • ONE SECOND is the new national brand for road safety in Qatar that has identified key areas that need to be addressed to make our roads safer • ONE SECOND is a joint campaign by the National Traffic Safety Committee and the Ministry of Interior, of Health and the Supreme Council, with the support of Maersk Oil • ONE SECOND has already been involved in giving car-seats away to newborn babies with Maersk Oil, and is now working on a road safety campaign for school children aged 12 to 18 with Formula 1 Williams.

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Community

L-R: Saia Berdibay and Mirsada Buric-Recica

Ladies Who Lead By Ashlee Starratt Photography by Jessie Palanca

WOHOM (Wives Of Heads Of Mission) is a diverse group of women who are promoting positive initiatives and cultural exchange, making Doha a better place, one nationality at a time.

t’s early on a bright Wednesday morning when we arrive at Bilal Pearl Suites to attend the monthly members meeting of WOHOM. There are about five different languages floating on the air as we take our seats – ladies from all backgrounds and walks of life laughing and mingling, with most decked out in their vibrant national dress. Placing the assortment of accents becomes a challenge in geography – there’s French, Indian, Bosnian, Arabic, Sri Lankan, all together in the same room. This is an average day for WOHOM, whose members gather on a monthly basis to welcome new ladies who have arrived to their posts in Qatar with their husbands – ambassadors and heads of mission, and to plan community outreach and charity events, plus have a little fun. WOHOM President Bozena Rostek, wife of the Ambassador of the Republic of Poland takes the floor and calls the meeting to order. There are a few new ladies present today – wives of the Ambassadors of Senegal, Sri Lanka, Hungary and the Ukraine. Each lady takes the floor and introduces herself, talking a little bit about her background and her previous postings. Some have been in the diplomatic service with their husbands for many decades, while others are just starting out, but all are well-educated, well-spoken and incredibly intelligent women. It’s that diversity within the group that drives it forward: “WOHOM is special from many points

of view,” says Mirsada Buric-Recica, wife of the Ambassador of Bosnia and Herzegovina. “The first one is the multi-nationalism of our organization – 60-70 different countries from all around the world. That is the great thing, meeting people from other countries, being friends with them and cooperating with them.” “What I like so much is that we’re truly friends,” she continues. “There is no jealousy, no negative thinking and no competition among us. We undertake activities together, do charity [work] together and try to introduce our countries to each other and also to people outside of our group.” Some of that charity work has had a far-reaching impact within the community. As Bozena Rostek explains: “We have partnered with other [groups] such as the American Women’s Association for their annual bazaar in support of Al Hiba group and also with the Qatari Women’s Association – they also have a diplomatic bazaar to help girls’ schools and we want to [support] them.” “Being in the shadow of our husbands we can also do important things. We can help, we can support other organizations and promote our countries and our cultures. As an example we did a fashion show for charity where we collected about QR 100,000 for Qatar Charity for a small boy from Yemen who was very sick with bone cancer and needed QR 2 million for treatment in Germany. I think every mother’s heart [in our group] was with his mother.” These kinds of philanthropic projects will keep growing as WOHOM continues to expand. Last month the ladies lent their support to DFI’s Ajyal Youth Film Festival and have also taken part in the Fashion At The Races function with the Equestrian Club, just to name a few. Bozena tells me that when she arrived in Doha seven years ago, (a very long posting for most diplomatic

WOHOM President Bozena Rostek

families), that there were only 20 embassies. Now there are 90 with 70 ambassadors’ wives present and about 50 taking part as active members of WOHOM. “Our husbands are our official faces [for our countries], we are not,” says Saia Berdibay, spouse of the Ambassador of the Republic of Kazakhstan. “We are part of the official face yes, but more friendly, more flexible, we can smile -- but we never forget that we represent our countries and our culture. At WOHOM I can feel and be more free, because we are all at the same level and these ladies are like sisters to me.” There’s no doubt that the ladies of WOHOM have made a difference not only among their own group of women, as a support system for one another, but in the wider community as well. As outgoing president Bozena Rostek prepares to step down from her post in January she reflects on the time she’s spent working alongside such strong women. “I like my group,” she says. “For some ladies it’s their first time as an ambassador’s wife and this is their first posting abroad. That’s why I want to show them and introduce them to [other] cultures and what things we can do together. I like this job but I will miss it when I leave, that’s for sure.” We’re certain there’s no shortage of aspiring candidates who will step up to take her place, because sisterhood and camaraderie know no boundaries of language or culture. And these ladies were born to lead. n

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Community Young carollers gather round the tree at The Four Seasons

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Families make a visit to Santa’s festive gingerbread house at the InterContinental Doha

Photography by Jessie Palanca

Break out the tinsel and put the star on top! December is the time to take in all the Christmas tree lightings held across the city. Here are the ones that aren’t to be missed, plus a few other festive follies. CROWNE PLAZA DOHA – THE BUSINESS PARK Traditional Christmas Tree Lighting Dec 7: Ho Ho Ho! The festive season is upon us! Join in the fun for a magical Christmas tree lighting ceremony, where you’ll be entertained by a Christmas choir, along with an early visit from a special Christmas visitor. Bring along the little ones and take pictures in the oversized gingerbread house while enjoying complimentary cookies, fruit juices and traditional festive beverages. Starts at 5:00 p.m. For more information call 4408-7777.

DOHA MARRIOTT Annual Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony

Dec 19: Let the Christmas celebrations begin! Bring the whole family along and join the Doha Marriott for their annual tree lighting ceremony. Sing along with the famous Marriott Christmas Choir and enjoy a special ‘Christmas treat’ pass around. Featuring a traditional gingerbread house and festive drinks, plus a visit from Santa so be sure to have your wish list ready! For more information call 4429-8888.

HILTON DOHA Lighting Ceremony

Dec 12: On Thursday, December 12 at 6:00 p.m. Hilton will light its Christmas tree. Join in while listening to the Hilton choir and enjoying some traditional festive drinks. For more information call 4423-3333.

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA THE CITY

The St. Regis’

Dec 11: Santa will visit the lobby mighty conifer of the hotel to bring joy to the little ones and light the Christmas tree. From 6:30 p.m. till 7:30 p.m. For more information call 4415-8888. SHARQ VILLAGE & SPA

SHERATON DOHA Gingerbread Factory & Tree Lighting

Dec 21: Spend quality time getting into the Christmas spirit with your kids and let them decorate their own gingerbread houses. Meeting other kids, they’ll have fun and connect in an entertaining afternoon of activities. Let Santa Claus surprise them with small gifts before they join the Christmas tree lighting in the lobby where the Christmas choir will be singing. Reserve your Gingerbread Factory tickets at QR 50 per child and QR 30 per adult. From 4:00 p.m. till 6:00 p.m. For more information call 4485-4444.

MÖVENPICK HOTEL DOHA Festive Cooking For The Little Ones

Sat 14 & 21: Children ages 3 and above are invited to discover the fun of cooking Christmas treats. Girls and boys will have loads of fun baking and decorating and, once finished, they’ll be able to take home their works of art. QR 65 per child with one accompanying parent; additional guests are charged QR 35 per person. From 12:00 noon till 2:00 p.m. Advance bookings required. For more information call 4429-1111.

RADISSON BLU Christmas Carols

Dec 24: The Radisson Blu employees add a sense of fun to your evening as the hotel welcomes you into the lobby for a festive selection of both classical and modern carols sung by members of the staff. Performances will take place at 5:00 p.m. in the hotel’s East Wing and at 5:45 p.m.in the West Wing lobby. For more information call 4428-1555.

The Sharq Village & Spa’s holiday tree is decked out with dozens of shiny baubles

Christmas Tree Lighting

Dec 6: Sip on warm apple cider, hot chocolate, juices, tea and coffee while indulging in traditional Christmas cookies and treats. Adding to the convivial atmosphere are carollers singing rousing renditions of traditional Christmas songs. QR 50 per person, from 5:30 p.m. till 7:30 p.m. in the lobby. For more information call 4425-6666.

THE FOUR SEASONS Light Up The Festivities

Dec 1: Guests can get into the festive spirit on December 1 when the hotel’s majestic lobby lights up for the festive season. To set the mood, an angelic children’s choir will serenade guests and Santa may also make his first seasonal appearance, so guests are advised to keep their wish lists handy! Starts at 4:30 p.m. For more information call 4494-8888.

THE ST. REGIS DOHA Tree Lighting Celebration

Dec 1: The festive season starts with a gathering of family and friends to light the hundreds of bulbs on the six-metre tall Christmas tree covered in sparkling crystals. This special event is sure to get you in the holiday spirit with live music and fun for the whole family. From 6:00 p.m. till 7:00 p.m. in the main lobby. For more information call 4446-0000.

W DOHA Gingerbread Festival

Dec 20: Decorate your own gingerbread cookies and eat as many as you can at the W Café. From 4:00 p.m. till 6:00 p.m., QR 100 per adult and QR 70 per children. Decorate cookies for QR 15. For reservations call 4453-5135. n

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ubity Listings mm Clun Cods Ki RECOMMENDS

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

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

Doha Players SHARQ VILLAGE & SPA Be Your Best In 2014 Workshop With Jacob Melaard

Dec 9: Six Senses Spa. Have you been struggling with your weight, tried every diet under the sun and still can’t keep it off? This program, hosted by practitioner Jacob Melaard, has the potential to transform your life. Over the course of six fortnightly coaching sessions you’ll address your limiting beliefs, limiting decisions and create clarity around that what you truly desire. Program runs until January 15, 2014 and is limited to 25 people. Workshop timings are 7:00 p.m. till 8:30 p.m. For more information visit www.SixSenses.com.

ONE OF A KIND

EVERY WEEK

DOHA SINGERS ‘Magical Memories’ Festive Concert

IAID Indian Classical Dance

Dec 7: Come enjoy this family-friendly concert on Saturday, December 7 at 4:00 p.m. at ASD’s Fine Arts Theatre. Featuring three of Doha’s premier ensembles: The Doha Singers, Doha Community Orchestra and the Doha Wind Orchestra. Children are welcome and tickets can be purchased for QR 50 from members of any of the ensembles. Tickets will not be available at the door or reserved for collection at the door the night of the event due to high demand. For more information email dohasingerstickets@gmail.com.

Sat-Thurs: IAID, Hilal St., Al-Tadamon Signal, D-Ring Road. The IAID Indian Dance program is a 7-year certificate course affiliated to the Nalanda Dance Research Centre in Mumbai, India. The course tackles the dance styles Bharatanatyam and Mohiniattam. Certificates are awarded to its graduates; ‘Prarambhika’ after four years and ‘Kovida’ after seven years. For more information call 4432-0974 /4441-1234, visit www.iaidonline.org or email enquire@iaidonline.org.

SHARQ VILLAGE & SPA Outdoor Full Moon Yoga

THE TALENTS CENTER Community Classes

Dec 17: Six Senses Spa. Come invigorate your body and mind as you connect with various moon salutations and combine meditation with various breathing techniques. This event is for any yoga skeptic and is an enjoyable activity for all ages. Starts at 7:00 p.m., charges apply. For more information visit www.SixSenses.com.

LADIES OF HARLEY Saturday Ride

Dec 7: Harley-Davidson Shop. The Ladies of Harley meet the first Saturday of each month at 6:00 p.m. 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 the Ladies Of Harley Facebook page.

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

See us online! om www.qatarhappening.c

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

Egyptian Women’s Association 5572-4171

French-Speaking Ladies Group 5559-7467

Indian Women’s Association 4442-4052

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

Red Dotters Qatar

5520-9294 Follow @RedDottersQatar on Twitter

Silver Dhow Association 4435-2598

Turkish Women’s Association www.twaq.org

Tuesday Ladies Group Email: tlgindoha@gmail.com

SASCOM: South Africans In Qatar

www.southafricansinqatar.netfirms.com

Canadians In Qatar

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

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Kids Club

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

Mums The Word Events & H2O Swimming Lessons

Sharq Village & Spa Tea With Santa And Teddy Dec 21-24: Al Jalsa Lounge. Indulge in sweet and tasty Christmas treats and a festive tea with Santa and his two mischievous elves as they entertain both young and old with Christmas stories. Kids will take home their very own Santa bear. QR 165, from 3:30 p.m. till 5:30 p.m. For more information call 4425-6666.

IAID

Ezdan Mall

Music Courses

Fun Ville Sat-Fri: Fun rules in Fun Ville! The perfect place to bring the little ones, this magical entertainment centre is now officially open on Level 1 of Ezdan Mall. Come out and enjoy some fun for the whole family. For more information call 4481-6697.

OUT om .c CHECaK ppening

atarh tion! www.qthe latest informa for

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Winter Term: InterContinental Hotel & ASD Outdoor Pools. (GROUP A) Age groups: 8 months to 3 years. Days: Saturdays, 8:45 a.m. till 9:15 a.m., Venue: ASD Outdoor Pool, Fee: QR 600 per 3-month term. (GROUP B), Age groups: 2 years to 3 Â˝ years, Days: Tuesdays, 2:30 p.m. till 3:00 p.m., Venue: ASD Outdoor Pool, Fee: QR 600 per 3-month term. (GROUP C), Age groups: 8 months to 2 years, Days: Sundays 9:30 a.m. till 10:00 a.m., Venue: InterContinental Hotel Outdoor Pool, Fee: QR 750 QR per 3-month term. For more information visit www.h2oswimclub.com.

The St. Regis Doha Afternoon Tea With Santa Fridays: Sarab Lounge. Gather with family and friends on a Friday afternoon in December to enjoy a special festive afternoon tea with Santa. Designed for families wishing to enjoy the season to be jolly. Reservations recommended. QR 138, from 2:30 p.m. till 8:00 p.m. For more information call 4446-0105.

Sat-Thurs: IAID, Hilal St., Al-Tadamon Signal, D-Ring Road. Offers classes in Classical/ Modern Piano, Classical/Acoustic Guitar, Electronic Keyboard and Western Vocals. All music courses incorporate Western notations and follow the London College of Music (LCM), University of West London UK syllabus. Examinations are held every six months at IAID by LCM examiners. Non-IAID students are welcome. For more information call 4432-0974 or 4441-1234, visit www.iaidonline.org or email enquire@iaidonline.org.

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Help! Kids Club

My Toddler Won’t Eat!

By Jacqueline Bodnar

Do you have a fussy eater in the family? A toddler in the terrible twos who just won’t eat his broccoli and carrots or finish her plate? We’ve got some strategies to make meal-time a whole lot easier.

“H

e refuses to eat vegetables and meat. He likes to eat fruit and bread, and he used to like to eat yogurt, but even that has become hit or miss,” explains Sara Krull, a mother of two toddlers in New Smyrna Beach, Fla. “People always say that if children are hungry, they will eat, but it’s still worrying to have your child eat so little, and not eat from all of the food groups.” She shares these same nutritional concerns about her 14-month old son, as many other parents do. Toddlers can leave you wondering how they have the energy to keep going all day and yet eat only a few bites of food. The more you know about why toddlers have the eating habits they have, the better you’ll be able to handle the situation.

Picky Eaters, Appetite Slumps “Picky toddlers are an interesting but complex topic,” explains Lucille Beseler, a registered dietician, president of the Family Nutrition Center of South Florida, and co-author of the book Nurturing with Nutrition (DMI, 2003). “Toddlers normally will go through periods of being picky eaters.” Beseler, who specializes in pediatric nutrition, points out that a child’s appetite usually decreases after they turn a year old. Because of this, people often think they just aren’t eating. One major concern is that parents often evaluate a child’s eating habits based on their own. This can become a problem because adults are often

used to eating by the clock, out of boredom, or for emotional reasons. Toddlers, on the other hand, are still in tune with their body’s hunger cues. They are more apt to skip meals if they aren’t hungry. Parents often mean well but, in an effort to make sure their toddlers get sufficient nutrients, they ultimately teach their children to ignore the hunger signals and simply eat by the clock, or by how much is on their plate. Experts today are urging parents against this, as it may lead to weight management problems later on. The decrease in appetite that happens during toddler-hood is normal. According to the

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Teaching tots about the five food groups early on can help them make and maintain healthy choices when they're older

University of Michigan Health System, there is an appetite slump that happens between one and five years old. They explain that this happens because children are growing at a much slower rate, during that period, and simply don’t need as many calories per day. Rather, they eat what their brain signals to them that they need in order to meet their nutritional and energy requirements.

Eating Patterns Many parents can relate to the possibility that a child will have a huge appetite one day and then, for the next two days, eat like a bird. This is considered ‘tanking up.’ Says Beseler, “It’s when they fill their ‘gas tank’ and go for periods of time without eating as much.” Another common toddler eating situation is a ‘food jag’, when he or she insists on eating the same thing over and over. Food jags are normal for young children, and are usually temporary. The important thing is to not allow the child to just eat that one food. If parents let the situation continue, they could run into problems when the child no longer wants that particular food. For example, if all they want is macaroni and cheese, tell them that today they have to have something else, and tomorrow they can have that meal.

Meal Tips There are a few things to keep in mind when it comes to feeding picky toddlers. While we can’t make them eat, we can take steps to make the process a little easier to take. • Nutrients. Be cautious about what you give them to eat. If your toddler is going through a period of not wanting to eat vegetables, try to give them a fruit that contains the same type of nutrients. And add shredded vegetables to dishes that will make them less noticeable. Not all foods are created equal, so try to get the most bang for the buck when it comes to assuring that what they do eat throughout the day is healthy. • Consistency. If you offer your child something once or twice and they don’t like it, don’t give up. It may take more than twenty attempts at offering that food to them before they acquire a taste for it. • Avoid grazing. Some people advocate grazing, but if a toddler eats throughout the day, it’s unlikely that they will have much of an appetite when it’s time for a meal. Children do, however, need a couple of small, healthy snacks throughout the day.

• Liquid calories. Juice, milk and other liquids all add to the caloric intake and can decrease appetite at meals. Monitor liquid intake. It’s best to offer water during the day, which won’t ruin their appetite. • Portion control. Often, parents have a distorted idea of what a toddler’s portion size should be, and so they pile a lot of food on the plate. Keep in mind that a toddler’s portion will be about ¼ to ½ of an adult’s portion size. • One a day. Be sure to give your child a daily vitamin, if they are old enough. • Control. Put your child in control by letting them feed themselves. By a year old, they should be able to pick up small pieces of food and feed themselves. • Don’t push. As much as possible, avoid pushing the child to eat, and never force them to eat anything. • Seeking help. If their lack of appetite is prolonged, they are losing weight, they are not energetic, or they seem ill, consult your pediatrician. n

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Kids Club

Kitchen Creations Photography by Jessie Palanca

It’s sugar and spice and all things nice with JeemTV’s celebrity Chef Elias from Opal by Gordon Ramsay in the St. Regis Doha and his holiday gingerbread recipe.

he smell of this sweet and spicy treat instantly transports you to the warmth of the holiday season. This delicious and easy to make gingerbread from Chef Elias can be used for creating festive cookies and original decorations. You can cut the dough into different shapes and then decorate with different coloured icing and your favourite treats. Try making gingerbread stars, gingerbread men, gingerbread reindeer, gingerbread trees and decorations for the tree or make it just to eat! Ho Ho Ho!

Festive Holiday Gingerbread Ingredients: • 350 grams all-purpose flour • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon • 1 teaspoon bicarbonate of soda • 1 ½ teaspoons ground ginger • 130 grams unsalted butter (softened) • 1 egg • 4 tablespoons of golden syrup • 175 grams of light, soft brown sugar

Method: • Heat the oven to 180 Celsius. • Cover a baking sheet with non-stick cooking paper and set aside. • In a large bowl mix together: flour, ground cinnamon, bicarbonate of soda, ground ginger and softened butter. • Then add brown sugar, egg and golden syrup. Mix until a smooth dough forms, then cover in plastic wrap and put in fridge for 15 minutes. • Sprinkle a little flour on a board and using a rolling pin roll the dough out to 1cm thickness. Then cut into your favourite shape with a cookiecutter or by hand around a template. • Place gingerbread cookies on the non-stick baking paper and bake in oven for 8-10 minutes. • Cool, frost and decorate. Sprinkle icing sugar

Chef Elias gives his gingerbread tree a dusting of icing

sugar snow

to make it look like snow and add berries or your favourite sweets. To make icing mix 2 egg whites, 1 tablespoon of lemon juice and 10 tablespoons of icing sugar together until smooth – then drizzle over trees or use to decorate gingerbread shapes. Happy holidays! n

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Bilal Pearl Suites The Pearl Qatar

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

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

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

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Kids Club

Family Fun Days Words and images by Charlie Sands

It’s the perfect time of year to visit the desert, so why not try a family adventure up to the little-visited north of Qatar. Oh look – a cloud!

t may seem an unlikely tourist destination, but the northern part of Qatar still has something to offer in terms of space, beaches and some insight into the country’s history and culture that you will encounter. Although to many northern Europeans and North Americans living in Qatar, the word winter connotates cold weather and short days. Here in Qatar, winter is something to look forward to. It’s a chance to do something outside without the suffocating heat, to take a road trip and to see something new. So it was exactly with this in mind that the Sands family set off to see what northern Qatar had to offer.

First Stop Al Ghariya Having visited the popular beach and camping spot of Fuwairit on an earlier adventure, we decided to start our day further north at Al Ghariya, which is the next turn-off after Fuwairit, on the Al Shamal Road. Al Ghariya has a resort, with villas, a pool and other recreational activities (indoor games room, beach buggies and so on) But we headed for the ‘free beach’ adjacent to the resort, which makes for a good picnic and paddling spot. The beach has small umbrellas for shade and is equipped with plenty of rubbish bins. Sadly there is still a fair amount of litter spread over the beach. The one thing it doesn’t have is a toilet, which proved a little

easier for the boys in our family and not so easy for the girls. After our picnic, the children enjoyed playing in the sand, throwing sand at each other, at us, and all over the picnic. So we headed for the water to wash off and play. Great for little children as the water is very shallow, but not so fantastic for adult swimmers, as you would have to walk pretty far out to reach a swimming depth.

Al Ruwais And The Northern Tip Picnic and paddle done, we loaded up the car and ventured further north to the little town of

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Lonely roads lead to new horizons

Al Zubarah fort has recently been declared a UNESCO World Heritage site

Fishing nets dot the coastal areas of Al Ruwais, a reminder of Qatar’s rich maritime history

Al Ruwais stopping at the northern tip of Qatar along the way. There’s not a lot there apart from a sandy beach but you can, I’m told, see Bahrain on a clear day. Back to Al Ruwais to discover, well, not a lot really. There are a couple of small local cafés, where you can get Arabic-style food for a few Qatari riyals, a beach with some small fishing boats that looked marooned on the shore, and there’s a small port with a few dhows and fishing tackle. It feels a world apart from the busy city of Doha, but also not that easy to get to know without perhaps someone local to show you around.

Heading West Along A Lonely Road The drive gets more interesting as you head west out of Al Ruwais and leave the highway for a smaller road which takes you down the western coast to Al Zubarah Fort. There are actually plenty of smaller forts and quite a few abandoned villages as you travel along this mostly deserted road. The abandoned villages are easy to explore from the road and are a great opportunity to find out how people used to live just a couple of generations ago. The forts are less easy to get to unless you have a 4x4 and are prepared to off-road it towards the sea and see what you find. We took a few snaps of the villages and the road and then reached Al Zubarah Fort, which has the makings of a tourist destination. The fort was built by Sheikh Abdullah bin Qasim Al Thani in 1938 as a base for the Qatari military and police to protect Qatar’s north-west coast as

part of a series of forts along Qatar’s coastline. Visiting made a welcome break to our journey and the children enjoyed exploring the fort, the peep-holes in the towers and the pile of sand and rubble outside which is being used to restore the building. However, in its current state of repair and works, the building is not entirely safe and since there’s a drop to ground level from the first floor without any railings you need to keep a tight rein on small children. Near to the fort, on the coast, is the deserted town of Al Zubarah which was added to the World Heritage Site list by UNESCO in June of this year. The town was once a thriving fishing and pearling village and at its peak was an impressive fortress city, surrounded by a wall punctuated with sentinel watch-towers. The last residents there abandoned the village in the early 1800’s and it was quickly buried under the blowing and drifting sands. Portions of the village have been excavated, with some sections in various stages of restoration, but for the most part this village is still buried. Needless to say you will need a 4x4 for this one, but by all reckoning it’s definitely worth the trek for its historical interest alone.

Reflections During our return journey to Doha, which took us less than an hour, we talked about what we had discovered en route. And the most striking thing about the day was not the fort, or the abandoned villages, or the beach, but what they meant to us. Seeing these made us realize how quickly Qatar has turned from a small fishing and pearling peninsula in the Gulf into a 21st century metropolis with all the trappings of globalization and wealth you can see in most parts of the Western world.

The Score Is Out So it was a nice getaway from the city, it had a convenient beach stop for a spot of relaxation and fun for the kids, plus some interesting sites along the way for us adults. If you like a hive of activity and well-equipped tourist facilities with pristine conveniences then you would be wise to stay away, but for everybody else I’d say it’s worth the effort. So overall, it’s an 8 out of 10. n

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Kids Club Listings RECOMMENDS

IAID Modern Jazz for Kids

Sat, Sun, Mon & Wed: IAID, Hilal St., Al-Tadamon Signal, D-Ring Road. Covers the basic step vocabulary and variations of dances which is a common form used in musical theatres and commercial entertainment industries. Designed to train students to professional standards with technical exercises and exciting routines. For more information call 4432-0974/4441-1234 or 6671-0589/5538-1960 or visit www.iaidonline.org or email enquire@iaidonline.org.

IAID Hip-Hop

Tues & Thurs: IAID, Hilal St., Al-Tadamon Signal, D-Ring Road. This is a popular highenergy urban class that uses the latest music combined with movement and choreography inspired by today’s hottest hip-hop tunes. For more information call 4432-0974/4441-1234 or 66710-589/5538-1960 or visit www.iaidonline.org or email enquire@iaidonline.org.

DOHA MUMS Fun City Toddler Group

Thursdays: Come and have some indoor play at Fun City, City Centre Mall between 10:00 a.m. and 12 noon every Thursday. A very suitable play area for tots up to the age of five, the toys are fabulous and it’s a great child-friendly environment. For more information www.dohamums.com.

ENTERTAINMENT FOR KIDS Ray’s Reef

Sat-Fri: Ray’s Reef at Royal Plaza has become one of the most popular entertainment facilities for babies, toddlers and young children in Qatar. Ray’s Reef is all about fun and creativity. Ray is the boss of the reef, and if you are lucky, you may see Ray, the stingray visiting at times. Ray’s other friends can also be sighted at times including the glamour girl Polka Dot Polly, the Octopus, Big Al, the friendly shark, Chocky, the cheeky star fish, Elvis, the cool lobster and Helen the very shy Hermit. Ray’s Reef opening hours are: Sunday - Wednesday 12:00 p.m. ‘til 10:00 p.m. (earlier during school holidays, but call to check first), Thursday 12:00 p.m.‘til 11:00 p.m., Friday 3:00 p.m. ‘til 11:00 p.m. and Saturday 10:00 a.m. ‘til 10:00 p.m. Private school visits are available during the week. For more information call 4413-0000 or 4413-1122.

See us online! om www.qatarhappening.c

CERAMIQUE PAINTING Café Ceramique

Sat-Thurs: The Mall. Who said you can’t paint your cup and drink from it too? Great place to take children to paint their own ceramiques. Hours, Saturday–Thursday, 10:00 a.m. ‘til 12:00 p.m. For more information call 4467-1100.

BABY & TODDLER PLAY GROUP Ghanem Gardens Play Group

Mondays: Come and join our friendly mother and baby/ toddler play group held on Mondays between 9:30 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. at Ghanem Gardens Club House (located behind the Ramada and adjacent to The Centre Mall.) There are a good range of toys for the children to choose from, a weekly art activity will be set up and each session will end with a sing -a-long. The charge is QR 15 per child and includes a tea or coffee. Snacks are available for purchase. For more information email Lena Kaminskas on email address lena.ontheroad@rambler.ru or visit www.thewordinqatar.com/kids/play-groups/144.html.

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Food & Dining

s k c i P p o T ’s This Month

Nando’s

Chowking

Business Lunch

Value Meals Daily: Enjoy dinner for 2 for QR 70-80 including soft drinks. Available at all restaurant locations, serving the best taste at the best price. For more information call Delivery Hotline: 4431-1212, Mamoura: 4486-6077, Al Khor: 4411-8816/17, Salwa Road: 4437-1212, Al Sadd St.: 4431-4411, Holiday Villa Hotel: 4411-5225/335.

Daily: Enjoy a lunch offer from Nando’s from 11:00 a.m. till 4:00 p.m. any day of the week. Get a soup, any burger, pita, or wrap of your choice, one side item and dessert for only QR 49. Choose from one of any Nando’s locations at City Center Mall, Hyatt Plaza Mall, Salwa Road, Financial Square on C-Ring Road and their newest outlet in Bin Omran.

Crowne Plaza Doha – The Business Park Boxing Day Dec 26: Misturado. Join in for live Premier League football throughout Boxing Day as the restaurant opens its doors earlier to broadcast exciting games starting at 2:00 p.m. For more information call 4408-7777.

OUT om .c CHECaK ppening

atarh tion! www.qthe latest informa for

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Doha Marriott Turkey To Go! Dec 1-27: Whole roasted turkey to go! Relax this festive season and pre-order your festive turkeys, freshly-prepared using only the finest ingredients for QR 790. For more information call 4429-8499.

Sharq Village & Spa Turkey To Go Dec 23-25: Take a break from your kitchen this Christmas and order one of their delicious turkeys with all the trimmings. Guests are kindly requested to book 24 hours in advance to make sure they haven’t been all gobbled up. QR 1,000. For more information call 4425-6666..

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Food & Dining

Flavours of Greece

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The portokalopita offers a zesty take on dessert

The sea bass is awash in rich texture and flavour

By Jorge Granda Photography by Jessie Palanca

Comfort in a bowl: chicken krasato stew

Mykonos at the InterContinental Doha is perhaps the most well-known, authentic Greek restaurant in town. Having opened its doors in 2009, QH visits the Mediterraneaninspired diner to see just how it’s retained its popularity over the years. The secret? It’s in the food!

t’s Tuesday night and there’s not an empty table in sight when I arrive at Mykonos with my family around 7:30 p.m., eager to devour some delicious Greek dishes. The reason we’ve stopped by on a Tuesday is for their special ‘Tour of Greece’ theme night conceptualized by celebrity Chef Ilias Kafalis. The idea behind the concept comes from the French Tour de France bicycle race, but with a culinary twist. Chef Ilias lived and worked in France and was influenced from his experience there to create this unique evening of gastronomic discovery. Just as the Tour de France race passes through many villages and regions of the country, so too does the ‘Tour of Greece’, as diners have the opportunity to taste recipes from across the Greek nation and its many islands. Chef Ilias takes various regional cuisines and creates unique menu items inspired from a host of traditional flavours. For December there are two rotating menus that draw their inspiration from Peloponnesia and the Ionian Sea. Tonight we try the Peloponnese set menu. We start our culinary journey with an exquisite salad from the Mani region called maniatiki. Originally presented in an open jar, it’s a succulent mix of oranges and potatoes tossed with herbs. We’re then served a perfectly-cooked sea bass fillet which is by far a delicious piece of fish and my favourite course of the evening. Tender

and juicy, it’s accompanied with sautéed green leaves and a lemon-caper vinaigrette. My only complaint is that I wish the portion was larger as I could have eaten two helpings. I’m also pleasantly surprised with the next dish. For our main we’re dished up a mouthwatering chicken krasato stew, which means cooked with vino. Served in a hot black pot, the chunks of chicken are fantastically prepared with different herbs and condiments. Rounding out the flavours on the menu is an indulgent thick pasta with heaps of freshly- grated cheeses. One can really taste the Mediterranean flavours that transport you to someplace distinctly Grecian. To finish, we’re served portokalopita a tangy and refreshing orange pie with a side of vanilla ice cream. Overall as Greek food goes, the experience was hard to beat. From the food to the service everything is just right, and the inviting fall weather made sitting outside on the terrace a great pleasure. Background music from a softtoned Bouzouki band sets the mood, re-creating an exceptional ambiance of the popular Greek vacation destination right here in Doha. The visual setting of the palm trees, the pools, the sea and the West Bay skyline captures the senses. If you can’t afford a ticket to Athens or Santorini, I highly recommend visiting Mykonos any day of the week – just for a quick escape. n

The maniatiki salad is crisp, tangy and refreshing

Mykonos Location: InterContinental Doha Timings: 12:00 noon till 11:30 p.m., daily Theme Nights: Mondays ‘Rotisserie Night’ Tuesdays ‘Tour of Greece’ Theme night dinner service from 7:30 p.m. till 11:30 p.m., daily except Saturdays Average Meal Price: QR 170 for 4-course ‘Tour of Greece’ set menu QR 99 for 3-course business lunch, Sun-Thurs from 12 noon till 3:00 p.m. Contact: For more information call 4484-4919

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Food & Dining

Rich fusilli frutti di mare in a pomodoro basil sauce

Hats Off To

The Italians

By Jorge Granda Photography by Jessie Palanca

Tucked away in the heart of Katara Cultural Village, le Vesuvio is taking Italian cuisine to a whole new level. QH visits the paisano hotspot to tempt our palates with some tasty original dishes from their new menu.

e’re told that le Vesuvio is named after the famous Mt. Vesuvius volcano in Naples and we can’t help but think that’s in part due to the eruption of flavours in its fare. Today we’ve brought our appetites to sample some of the new offerings on their re-vamped menu. But first, a note on the space itself – it’s luxurious. Small and cozy it gives the feeling that you’re eating in a beautiful and distinguished little house somewhere in Italy. The knockout focal feature is the giant wood-fired oven near the front of the restaurant with a huge Roman sunburst radiating across its façade. The furniture exudes an earthy, homey feel with a palette of muted orange and brown tones, while crisp white linen runners adorn the table-tops. The décor is charming and the service attentive. Chef Francisco Gonzalez comes over to walk us through their new dishes, explaining that the biggest change is that le Vesuvio now offers seafood on the menu and we’re sure to get a taste of it today. They also have new a la carte kids menu for little diners. Starters are up first with a fresh caprese salad – a stalwart classic that’s hard to mess up. Our second antipasti is avocado e gambri, a delicious

mélange of avocado, shrimp, mixed lettuce, Parmesan cheese and raspberry vinaigrette. This is followed by a succulent ravioli ricotta e pomodoro. The raviolis are cooked to perfection and the texture of the pasta is just right; coupled with fresh tomato sauce and basil it’s a sensational dish. Chef Francisco tells us that they make all their own pasta on-site and even offer gluten-free options for those with dietary sensitivities, making le Vesuvio a trail-blazer in what’s currently a very small circle of sans gluten dining outlets in Doha. The newcomers on the line-up make their début next with a platter of fusilli frutti di mare. The short spiral pasta with a tomato-based seafood sauce bursting with calamari, mussels, prawns and clams is a fisherman’s delight. All dishes are served fast and the presentation is beautiful. Hot on the heels of the fusili are the camber jumbo al limone – plump, tender giant prawns grilled and tossed in a lemon-based sauce. It’s a zesty palate cleanser that readies our taste buds for the chicken cacciatore that follows, and both dishes are well-prepared and very tasty. The chicken is cooked with the skin on, drenched in a rich gravy laced with capers and served with a side of creamy mash and baby root vegetables.

Traditional chicken cacciatore drizzled with a caper gravy

For dessert we’re served a tasting menu selection of tiramisu, torta di mele, panna cotta and sorbeto al limone. The tiramisu is another mouth-watering classic, and the silkysweet vanilla pannacotta melts on the tongue. Our favourite is the torta di mele, an upside down apple tart baked to perfection and fragrant with cinnamon and nutmeg, served with a side of homemade ice-cream. Would we go back to le Vesuvio? Definitely. It’s a top-notch establishment with friendly service and an authentic Italian menu that isn’t afraid of re-inventing itself to please the customer’s palate. n le Vesuvio Location: Building 20, Katara Cultural Village Timings: Mon-Sat, 12 noon till 11:00 p.m. Closed on Sundays Average Meal Price: QR 130 Smoking: Yes, on the upstairs terrace Licensed: No Contact Info: 4408-1500 or visit le Vesuvio on Facebook

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Food & Dining

Chef ’s Corner Photography by Jessie Palanca

We let our tastes wander towards the exotic this holiday season with a recipe for poached lobster from Chef Randy Joung from The InterContinental Doha The City. The unusual secret ingredient that will have all your guests gabbing? White chocolate! The Story Behind The Dish “I have always been a sweet-tooth child, eating non-stop chocolate and sweets,” says Chef Randy. “And my mother always tried to cook something that would attract my attention but there was no hope, so one day I came back from school and there was a delicious smell coming out of the kitchen. My Mum had decided to combine chocolate to my meal of poached lobster cooked in shrimp stock and white chocolate sauce. Even though it was not very sweet, the chocolate flavour was there and I loved it.”

Poached Lobster With Shrimp Stock & White Chocolate Sauce

Ingredients • Whole lobster, 1 per person • 300 ml shrimp stock • 1 teaspoon white chocolate • Musk melon, ¼ each • Dash of lemon oil • Dash of balsamic reduction • Dash of butter • Handful of micro-greens • Salt • Pepper

Instructions 1. Sprinkle balsamic reduction on the plate in a zig-zag pattern 2. Slice musk melon by 2 mm thickness, mix lemon oil and salt and gently put on plate 3. Poach the whole lobster in boiling shrimp stock 4. Slice lobster into generous-sized portions and lay on top of the sliced musk melon 5. Gently drizzle the white chocolate sauce the lobster and the plate 6. Create colourful accent points on top of the lobster with some sprigs of micro-greens

Chef Randy carefully works on an artful presentation

White Chocolate Sauce 1. Mix the white chocolate with 5 teaspoons of reserved shrimp stock 2. Boil slowly until the texture becomes a bit sticky 3. Mix in a little butter and incorporate it well until the mixture is smooth n

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Food & Dining

Word of Mouth

The tagine lamb bal barkouk is fragrant with dates and spices reminiscent of Moroccan home-cooking

Photography by Jessie Palanca

This column is part of a monthly contest where we send one of our readers to experience a meal at a restaurant. It’s our way of giving the community a voice in our pages. This month Margarida Neves indulges in the Moroccan fare at Tangia in the Wyndham Grand Regency. Here is her review. QH: What did you order? MN: • Lobster harira soup, QR 49 • Tangia lentil soup, QR 39 • Tagine lamb bal barkouk, QR 109 • Hammour tagine, QR 115 • Bograer for dessert, QR 69

QH: Describe the quality of the food. MN: The food is plentiful and delicious! I’ve been to Morocco so I’m familiar with the Moroccan cuisine, so I found that the food was just as good as on my trip. My favourite part of the meal was the lamb because I’m a huge fan. QH: Describe the quality of the service. MN: The service is efficient and friendly. At the beginning when we saw the menu we were very indecisive on what to eat, but the waitress was very kind and helped walk us through the menu and decide our dishes and we were not disappointed with her recommendations.

Contest winner Margarida Neve s poses with Chef Saida Ouaman

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

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

MN: The special touch, for me, was the smell of the food. When we eat we do it with all of our senses!

MN: I am looking forward to going back. I liked the food and the decoration!

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

QH: Favourite thing about the restaurant?

MN: The overall the experience was great! Thanks QH!

QH: Were the prices reasonable? MN: Yes, the prices are fairly reasonable! QH: Describe the ambiance. MN: The ambiance is a mix of luxurious and mysterious with a relaxing atmosphere! It was very calm but maybe [the lighting] was a little too dark for my taste. But since I was with my husband the experience was romantic and we had a beautiful moment.

MN: The food and the service, because the staff were really attentive throughout the entire evening. QH: Least favourite thing about the restaurant? MN: The music. First of all, it’s not the kind of music I prefer and it was a bit too loud.

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

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Food & Dining

C Is For Cookie By Gerald Tan Photography by Jessie Palanca

Though Christmas crackers may excite with a bang, there’s nothing quite like the sugary snap of a frosted shortbread. In all festive shapes and sizes they’re a simple reminder that good things come in small packages.

s there such a thing as the perfect cookie? So many factors come into play: shape, crispness, flavour combinations, even colour. A cookie can take on new character with very subtle tweaks… an extra egg, two minutes longer in the oven or a different flour altogether. One of my favourite cookies is one I receive every Christmas from Aunt Ellen in Rehoboth Beach. It’s chocolate chip with coarse, granulated sugar and so little flour that it spreads out into a thin, almost crystallized wafer that crunches with a hint of cinnamon. Other times, I crave something chunkier -dried cherries, toasted macadamia and white chocolate with a cake-like, crumbly centre. Or for tea-time, it would be hard to beat a lemon bar -- crispy, rich shortbread topped with tart custard and dusted with icing sugar. For the beginning baker, the realm of cookie-dom is a terrific one to explore. There are numerous methods available and some so effortless that it’s easy to achieve something positively heavenly in as little as 30 minutes. The drop cookie is a prime example. Just mix everything together in a bowl and spoon out into individual portions. Even simpler yet are

bar-shaped cookies, in which the dough is pressed into a pan then cut up once baked. The roll-out varieties involve more work but produce more uniformed and interesting shapes. And when the oven is not an option, there’s the ever dependable no-bake cookie that’s mostly bound by a syrup of some sort. For me, no holiday season is complete without a larder laden with cookies galore. They are part of the perfect hospitality tool-kit and wonderful to have on hand as family crowds round the dining table and friends pop by for a chin-wag. It’s especially during this socially packed time of year that I try to stretch out a recipe. I make one cookie dough to use as a base for different treats. Here are three that I love: the cut-up sugar cookie, a shaped thumbprint cookie with jam, and a dense, chocolate fruit bar. May your season be bright and buttery. See you again in 2014. n Comments, feedback and pictures of your baking gladly welcome. For more dessert ideas, check out my website: www.boulangerry.com.

Get triple the tasty treats with this one recipe. Happy holidays!

Basic Cookie Recipe 1 cup butter (8 oz) = 226 gm 1 cup sugar, super fine 1 egg 2 tsp vanilla 2 ¾ cup flour ½ tsp. salt ½ tsp. baking powder Cream butter and sugar in an electric mixer. Alternatively, use a spatula to beat together. Mix in egg and vanilla. Sift together flour, salt and baking powder and stir into batter, mixing thoroughly. The dough should come together in a ball. Sugar Cookie: Roll out the dough into thin, flat disc. Use cookie cutters to cut out a variety of shapes and bake on a baking sheet at 180 degrees Celcius for 10-13 minutes. When cool, decorate with icing, sprinkles, etc. Thumbprints: Roll the dough into individual balls about 1.5 to 2 inches in diameter. Place balls about 2 inches on a baking sheet then press down with your thumb to make a well in the middle. Fill crater with your favourite jam or fruit preserve and bake at 180 degrees Celcius for 11-14 minutes. Chocolate Bars: Stir in dried cranberries into the dough. Press the entire ball onto a 9 x 13-inch pan. Bake at 180 degrees Celcius for 15 minutes. When the top is golden, remove from the oven and sprinkle chocolate chips over the cookies. Wait a minute and spread chocolate into a smooth layer. Cut into squares and cool completely before serving.

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Food & Dining family Christmas Brunch! There’s also a kids’ entertainment room featuring a bouncy castle, games and more. Regular brunch QR 299, or QR 389 with bubbly. For more information call 4429-8499.

THE FOUR SEASONS Christmas Eve

Dec 24: Il Teatro. The Christmas Eve dinner at Il Teatro is an indulgent festive occasion featuring a four-course set menu created by their culinary brigade of Italian chefs. QR 400 four-course set menu inclusive of soft drinks and QR 530 four-course set menu inclusive of soft drinks and Italian vino. From 7:00 p.m. till 11:30 p.m. For more information call 4494-8888.

Christmas Day Brunch

Festive Feasts With the holiday season upon us, it’s time to celebrate with family and friends and enjoy a very merry Christmas. Have a sneak peek at our special round-up of the top Christmas dinners and brunches around the city to get you in the festive spirit. Ho ho ho! CROWNE PLAZA DOHA – THE BUSINESS PARK Christmas Eve Dinner

Dec 24: Aramede Restaurant. Celebrate Christmas Eve with your family at Aramede, offering festive dishes from around the world, including live cooking stations, a kids’ area and live musical duo playing traditional Christmas songs. QR 195 per adult, QR 95 per child (6-12 years). Children under the age of 6 dine free of charge. QR 295 per adult including festive beverages. For more information call 4408-7777.

Christmas Day Brunch Dec 25: Aramede Restaurant. Enjoy festive family moments at Aramede’s Christmas Day brunch, with a lavish buffet, including live cooking stations, kids’ play area and live entertainment. QR 222 per adult, QR 111 per child (6-12 years). Children under the age of 6 dine free of charge. QR 295 per adult including festive beverages.From 12:30 noon till 4:00 p.m. For more information call 4408-7777.

DOHA MARRIOTT

Christmas Eve Gourmet Route Special Dec 24: Restaurant Gallery. Relax this Christmas Eve and indulge in the Marriott’s famous Gourmet Route, serving mouth-watering Christmas fare from around the globe! Regular price QR 225 or QR 320 with bubbly. Starts at 6:00 p.m. For more information call 4429-8499.

Christmas Day Brunch Dec 25: Restaurant Gallery. Featuring a fine selection of traditional Christmas roasts, seasonal holiday desserts and festive drinks, the Doha Marriott is the perfect choice for your

Dec 25: Nusantao, Il Teatro, Pool Grill, Beach Area. Enjoy a fabulous celebration of festive food and fun with family and friends at the most extensive buffet in town. Prepared with all the finest ingredients of the season, the offerings include traditional favourites like roast turkey and English fruitcake, with something for everyone. Our younger guests will adore the special Christmas activities, with face-painting, a bouncy castle, magic show, balloon-twisting and a visit from Santa himself. From 12:00 noon till 5:00 p.m., QR 495, Christmas brunch buffet inclusive of soft drinks and juices, QR 595,Christmas sparkling brunch inclusive of soft drinks, juices, bubbly and vino, and QR 247, kids buffet (between 5-12 years old). For more information call 4494-8888.

GRAND HYATT DOHA Christmas Eve Dinner

Dec 24: It’s that time of year when you gather around a warm fire, eat traditional roasts and share good times with family and friends. Come enjoy a Christmas dinner at The Grill, our Thai restaurant Isaan, or Italian-inspired Rocca. Five-course dinner for QR 250 or QR 350 with special beverages. Children dine for QR 125. From 7:00 p.m. till midnight. For more information call The Grill: 3000-7513, Isaan: 7021-8097 or Rocca: 7021-8096.

Christmas Brunch Dec 25: The Grill. Christmas is about being merry, jolly and sharing good times with family and friends. Where better than at the Grand Hyatt Doha Christmas Brunch? For the children, there will be a large playground with bouncy castles, candy floss, face-painting and Santa with his little helpers. This year you’ll be entertained by live music from Natalie and Chass. In the spirit of Christmas, Grand Hyatt Doha are having a lucky draw for guests, giving away a free night all-inclusive over New Year’s Eve. QR 125 for children, QR 295 for adults and QR 420 with special beverages. From 12:30 noon till 4:00 p.m. For more information call 3000-7513.

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HILTON DOHA

Christmas Dinner Dec 25: Trader Vic’s. For the first time in Qatar, Trader Vic’s brings you their signature dishes on the terrace. Enjoy Tiki Christmas Dinner while taking in the stunning views. QR 195 including a welcome drink. From 7:00 p.m. till 11:30 p.m. For more information call 4423-3333.

Christmas Day Brunch Dec 25: Nashira Ballroom. Join in for a joyous Christmas brunch at Nashira Ballroom with a live band and a scrumptious spread, specially prepared by the chefs. Santa Claus will pay the kids a visit, with plenty of presents and activities for the little ones. From 12:30 noon till 3:30 p.m., QR 275 including soft drinks. For more information call 4423-3333.

HOLIDAY VILLA

Christmas Special Buffet Dec 24 & 25: Lagenda. Enjoy a special buffet during the happiest day of the year. QR 138 for adults, QR 68 for children between the ages of 4 to 12 years old. From 12:00 noon till 4:00 p.m. For more information call 4408-4220.

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA Christmas Eve

Dec 24: Mykonos. Christmas set menu including one glass of Glühwein for QR 215. No a la carte available.Live entertainment includes a Bouzouki band, Christmas choir and Santa’s visit with gifts for the little ones. From 6:30 p.m. till 11:30 p.m. For more information call 4484-4444.

Christmas Day Brunch Dec 25: Fish Market. Christmas brunch by the beach for QR 375 including bubbly. Terrace and beach tables available.Live entertainment includes a jazz duo, Christmas choir and Santa’s visit with gifts for the little ones. From 12:30 noon till 3:30 p.m.For more information call 4484-4444.

KEMPINSKI RESIDENCES & SUITES Christmas Eve Dinner

Dec 24: Sky Villa. Enjoy a stylish dinner at the top of Doha. Get ready to be impressed with a gourmet four-course dinner menu inspired by the European heritage of Kempinski, live Christmas rhythms and elegant festive decorations in the incomparable Sky Villa, promising an unforgettable experience. From 8:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. QR 495 per person including welcome bubbly, house vino, soft beverages, coffee and tea, or QR 325 per person including welcome bubbly, soft beverages, coffee and tea. For more information call 4405-3333.

Christmas Brunch with Santa Dec 25: Sky Villa. Celebrate Christmas at the highest point in Doha overlooking the city with a scrumptious brunch buffet, a mini-corner for the younger guests and a stop from Santa who will be there to take pictures with everyone! QR 450 per person including welcome bubbly, house vino, soft beverages, coffee and tea, or QR 295 per person including welcome bubbly, soft beverages, coffee and tea. QR 145 for children up to 12 years old including soft beverages. Children up to 6 years old dine complimentary. From 12:00 noon till 3:30 p.m. For more information call 4405-3333.

LA CIGALE

Christmas Eve And Day Dec 24 & 25: La Cigalon. A wide spread of international culinary delights, including turkey and a Christmas log on the dinner and brunch buffet. For more information call 4428-8698.

MÖVENPICK HOTEL DOHA Christmas Eve

Dec 24: Seasons. It’s the time of year to share and celebrate, so gather family and friends and tuck into a traditional holiday spread amidst stunning Christmas decorations and jolly tunes. QR 185 per person and children up to the age of 12 dine free, while those aged 12 to 16 years get 50% off. For more information call 4429-1111.

Christmas Day Dec 25: Seasons. Feel the joy of Christmas and indulge in a feast of holiday favourites with live festive entertainment and special activities for kids, plus a visit from Santa. From QR 215 per person and children up to the age of 12 dine free, while those aged 12 to 16 years get 50% off. For more information call 4429-1111.

RENAISSANCE DOHA CITY CENTER Christmas Dinner

Dec 25: New York Steakhouse. Smoked salmon on chestnut blinis with truffle tapenade; fresh oysters or baked snails; US Black Angus or traditional roast turkey; warm Christmas log. QR 450 excludes beverages. For more information call 419-5000.

Christmas Day Brunch Dec 25: Cucina. Live stations of hammour, beef sirloin, pasta and pizza, antipasti, salads, hot appetizers, lasagna, pan-fried salmon, octopus and more. Traditional Italian desserts of panettone, tiramisu, panna cotta, cannoli, profiteroles and torta della nonna. From 12:00p.m. till 3:30 p.m. For more information call 4419-6100.

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Food & Dining RADISSON BLU

Christmas Eve Dinner Dec 24: Join Bentley’s Grill, Maxim or Pier 12 for Christmas Eve as the chefs cook up a Christmas Eve feast! QR 330 per person inclusive of a welcome drink. Starts at 6:00 p.m. For more information call 4428-1555.

Christmas Day Brunch Dec 25: Hyde Park Coffee Shop. On Christmas Day guests at the Radisson Blu can expect a magical treat, with a very special Christmas spread for all the family and a special visit from you-know-who! QR 200 per person or QR 270 per person including a little sparkling bubbly! From 12:00 noon till 3:00 p.m. For more information call 4428-1555.

ORYX ROTANA

Countdown To Christmas Dec 24: Jazz Club. 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 decorations and oozing Christmas charm. They’ll be serving a lavish three-course plated dinner from a set menu, featuring some contemporary favourites for QR 250 (food only). There are also special ‘holiday’ prices on bottles of bubbly and spirits – the perfect gift for a loved one. For more information call 4402-3333.

Christmas Celebrations Dec 24: The Cellar. Join in the revelry this December and make it a holiday to remember. Christmas is a great opportunity to gather friends, family and loved ones and be completely self-indulgent – and where better than in a luxurious, stylish wine bar. Enjoy Christmas Eve with a mouth-watering Tapas Galore, featuring some contemporary favourites with a Spanish twist. Also, don’t miss out on their Christmas Business Lunch on Christmas Day. It’s the perfect seasonal meal to enjoy with your choice from our extensive list of vinos and vintage bubbly. QR 300 for Christmas Tapas Galore and QR 240 for the Christmas Business Lunch. For more information call 4402-3333.

PAPER MOON

Christmas Eve & Christmas Day Dec 24 & 25: Jaidah Square, Airport Road. Celebrate Christmas with a special four-course set menu on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. Kids will also enjoy the occasion with a special menu for them. QR 310, from 11:30 a.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4016-6000.

SHERATON DOHA Christmas Eve

Dec 24: La Veranda Italian Restaurant. Let Chef Alessandro entice you with his original Italian cooking skills in a glamourous festive buffet. Watch him and his team prepare some traditional festive dishes right in front of you in his show-kitchen. Christmas is all about sharing so bring along the whole family and loved ones and make this a night to remember. Enjoy the complimentary Christmas crackers and sweet giveaways for all! QR 230 per person with a 50% discount for children under the age of 12. For more information call 4485-4444.

Christmas Day Dec 25: La Veranda Italian Restaurant. Spend Christmas Day with your family and friends in this lively restaurant. Chef Alessandro will pamper you with a special buffet selection of fresh pastas and the finest grilled seafood and meats. Pop the Christmas crackers and enjoy their complimentary sweet giveaways! QR 220 per person, or QR 290 per person including free-flowing house beverages and soft drinks. 50% discount for children under the age of 12. For more information call 4485-4444.

SHARQ VILLAGE & SPA Christmas Eve Dinner

Dec 24: Al Liwan. Gather with family and friends to have a magical night before Christmas and enjoy a variety of delectable selections from the buffet. QR 250 for adults and QR 125 per child ages 12 years and under. From 6:30 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4424-2888.

Christmas Day Brunch Dec 25: Al Dana. The grown-ups are spoiled for choice with a festive brunch menu of freshly-caught seafood and traditional Christmas favourites, while the children scamper off to the Christmas playroom for movies, treats and even a visit from Santa. QR 360 for adults, QR 180 per child ages 12 years and under. From 12:00 noon till 4:00 p.m. For more information call 4425-6666.

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THE DIPLOMATIC CLUB Christmas Eve Dinner

Dec 24: Le Grill. Cheese display and turkey carving station for QR 150 per person excluding beverages. A Qanun player will entertain guests on this night and Christmas gifts will be given to the kids. For more information call 4484-7412.

Christmas Lunch Dec 25: Le Grill. Turkey carving station for QR 70 per person excluding beverages. Christmas gifts will be given to the kids. For more information call 4484-7412.

THE RITZ-CARLTON Christmas Eve

Dec 24: Porcini. Let the Ritz show you how special Christmas Eve can be, with festive decorations everywhere, gingerbread aroma in the air, and the sweet sound of Christmas carols to evoke childhood memories. Three-course menu at QR 300 person, 4-course menu at QR 390 person, or 5-course menu at QR 480 person. Sharing menu at QR 390 person with a minimum of four guests. All are inclusive of water, coffee and tea. For more information call 4484-8000.

THE ST. REGIS DOHA Magical Christmas Eve

Dec 24: Gordon Ramsay. Michelin-starred Chef Gilles Bosquet has created a magical Christmas Eve menu of five-courses - a special treat to bring joy this holiday season. Menu includes festive a welcome drink. QR 590 for five-course menu and QR 1,200 five-course menu with sommelier’s selection. From 6:00 p.m. till midnight. For more information call 4446-0106.

Christmas Day Brunch With Santa Dec 25: Vine Restaurant. Christmas Day brunch with all the trimmings, live music and fun children’s Entertainment. Ho Ho Ho! QR 295 with soft beverages and QR 395 with grapes, grains and sparkling beverages.From 12:30 noon till 4:00 p.m.For more information call 4446-0106.

THE TORCH

Festive Dinner Dec 25: Three Sixty.Celebrate the festive season at Doha’s only revolving restaurant. Set menu at QR 290, with a special price of QR 195 for children between the ages of 10 -14. For more information call 4446-5600.

Festive Lunch Three Sixty: A special day with family and friends at Doha’s only revolving restaurant. Set menu at QR 260 per person, special price for children below the age of 12 at QR 130. For more information call 4446-5600.

W DOHA

Christmas Eve Dinner Dec 24: Market by Jean-Georges. Enjoy an exquisite four-course Christmas menu with entertainment from Sara Oschlag and Doha Jazz. QR 250 per person. From 6:00 p.m. till 11:30 p.m. For more information call 4453-5135.

Christmas Brunch Dec 25: Market by Jean-Georges. Mingle to jingle! Market by Jean-Georges unveils an exquisite buffet this Christmas with pop-up dishes at your table and festive tunes by Sara Oschlag and Doha Jazz. QR 380 per person. From 12:00 noon till 4:00 p.m. For more information call 4453-5135. n

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Food & Dining Listings RECOMMENDS

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THE RITZ-CARLTON Christmas ‘Corso Di Cucina’

Dec 14: Porcini. Learn the art of preparing and Italian Christmas dinner hosted by Italian Chef Daniele Vacca. QR 295, from 10:00 a.m. For more information call 4484-8514.

W DOHA Turkey To Go

THE GRAND HYATT Rudolph’s Brunch

Dec 20: Santa is dedicating this year’s brunch to his favourite reindeer, Rudolph, and wants everyone to join in on December 20 from 12:30 p.m. till 4:00 p.m. For the children there will be a large playground with bouncy castles, candy floss, face painting and Santa with his little helpers. This year you’ll be entertained by live music from Natalie and Chass. In the spirit of Christmas, the Hyatt is also having a lucky draw for their guests, giving away a free night all-inclusive over New Year’s. For more information call 3000-7513.

PROMOTIONS KEMPINSKI RESIDENCES & SUITES Festive Cooking Classes

Starts Dec 8: Sky Villa. Enjoy some fun and creativity in the kitchen of the Sky Villa. Let Executive Chef Mike Scheumann lead you through a festive culinary journey and impress your family and friends next time you prepare dinner! Watch him create a 3-course festive set menu while giving away tips and secrets. When everything is ready, take home his secret recipe and the ingredients of the dessert! QR 225. For more information call 4419-6100.

LA VARENNE Rhone Alpes Sommelier’s Dinner

Dec 5: As part of La Varenne’s special Rhone Alpes week, their sommelier will hold a special gourmet dinner to discover some of the specialty dishes and wines of the Rhone Alpes region. QR 395 per person, 7:30 p.m. Limited spaces available, reservations required. For more information call 4499-0680 or email reservations@lavarenne.qa.

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RENAISSANCE DOHA CITY CENTER Winter Wonders

Dec 14-27: Cucina. Grilled quail with honey balsamic sauce; meatball crêpes with mixed vegetables; cod fillet, tomato concasse and basil pesto; turkey stuffed with chestnuts and porcini mushrooms; Italian pandoro cake with roast almonds and berry sauce. Available dinner only, from QR 90. For more information call 4419-6100.

SHERATON DOHA Italian & Oriental Buffet

Dec 18: La Veranda. Two buffets presenting the best of Mediterranean /Italian cuisine and the best Oriental specialties. Enjoy a grill station with fresh fish and meat and a live pasta-cooking station. QR 290 including soft drinks, water, juices tea and coffee, QR 145 for children between the ages of 6 to 12. Children under the age of 6 years dine free. For more information call 4485-4071.

THE ST. REGIS DOHA Kids Festive Cooking Class

Dec 7: Astor Grill. Sugar and Spice festive cooking class for children between the ages of 4 to 12 years. Celebrity Chef Elias from Opal by Gordon Ramsay will show them how to make some fun and easy holiday treats. Places limited, booking essential. QR 100 per child. From 10:00 a.m. till 12:00 noon. For more information call 4446-0106.

All month: W Café. Celebrate the festive season at home and order a succulent Turkey from the W Café. Place your order three days in advance for QR 750. For more information call 4453-5021.

EVERY WEEK CROWNE PLAZA DOHA – THE BUSINESS PARK You Think You Can Eat Meat?

Sun-Fri: Rodizio. Eat as much meat as you can and try a wide variety from their salad and seafood stations before you start in on the delicious 12 different cuts of meat accompanied by Cuban entertainment. QR 265 with soft drinks, or QR 359 including house beverages. From 6:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4408-7777.

THE FOUR SEASONS The Perfect Lunch

Sat-Thurs: Nusantao: Sea Kitchens. Longing for a sensational lunch from the Far East but don’t have much time? Tailor-make your set lunch to suit your taste and time from an extensive selection of lunch dishes, from a two-course lunch to a six-course lunch – Chef Kato’s exclusive Bento Box.Savour the most exquisite pan-Asian culinary experience at the city’s newest theatrical dining venue. Starts at QR 55, from 12:00 noon till 3:00 p.m. For more information call 4494-8888.

KEMPINSKI RESIDENCES & SUITES Camel Milk Chocolate

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

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Steak & Vino

Sun-Fri: Aroma. The finest meat cuts are paired with a carefully selected glass of vino, taking you on a distinctive gastronomic journey with the Steak & Vino menu at Aroma. For more information call 4405-3325 or email restaurants.doha@kempinski.com or www.kempinski.com/doha.

GRAND HERITAGE Indian Night

Wednesdays: Flavours. Indulge in an irresistible, vividly-presented buffet that captures the diverse tastes of traditional Indian dishes with a contemporary twist. Enjoy an enticing variety of curries and biryanis, kebabs and breads from a live tandoor oven and fabulous appetizers, salads and desserts from the main central buffet. QR 199 including selected beverages. From 7:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4445-5555.

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA Theme Nights

Sundays: Surf Night (seafood dinner buffet). QR 260 including a glass of house beverage. Tuesdays: Asian Night dinner buffet. QR 225 including a glass of house beverage. Thursdays: Phoenician Night dinner buffet. QR 235 including a glass of house beverage. Saturdays: Turf Night dinner buffet. QR 250 including a glass of house beverage Mon, Wed, Fri & Sat: International buffet dinner. QR 195 including a glass of house beverage. Friday Brunch: 12:30 p.m. till 4:00 p.m. at QR 275 per person including unlimited bubbly, or QR 250 with soft drinks. For more information call 4484-4919 or 4484-4444.

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA THE CITY Seafood Night Wednesdays: The Square. Taste the best seafood dishes in town for QR 350 including selected house beverages and QR 250 including soft drinks and mocktails. From 6:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4015-8888 or doharestaurants@ihg.com.

LENÔTRE

Daily: Villaggio Mall & C-Ring Road. Café Lenôtre restaurant provides contemporary food in a modern atmosphere as well as a boutique with a variety of pastries and imported chocolates. Now offering two business lunch specials; one for QR 65 and one for QR 95, from 8:00 a.m. till 11:45 p.m. For more information call 4450-7255.

MAGNOLIA BAKERY They Deliver!

Daily: Dar Al Salam Mall. Enjoy savoury treats and the biggest selection of freshly-baked desserts under one roof! Enjoy your favourite desserts delivered to your doorstep, minimum order QR 300. From 8:00 a.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4450-9407.

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Food & Dining Listings MÖVENPICK HOTEL DOHA Mövenpick Ice-Dreams

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

Travel The World On A Plate

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

PAPER MOON Now Open in Doha

Daily: Jaidah Square, Airport Road. A legendary restaurant brand has arrived, delivering a fashionable, relaxed ambiance and luscious Italian food. Yes, Paper Moon’s trademark Italian par excellence in food and service can be savoured in Doha as of now, with the opening of its new restaurant at JaidahSquare. From 12:00 noon till 11:30 p.m. For more information call 4016-6000.

ORYX ROTANA Tex Mex BBQ.

Sundays: Choices. Come with your friends to Choices every Sunday and enjoy a special beverage deal with the Tex Mex BBQ night! QR 200 per person including water, soft drinks and chilled juices or QR 280 including unlimited selected house beverages, or try the premium package for QR 320 including unlimited sparkling vino, house spirits, selected digestives and aperitifs.From 7:00 p.m. to 11:30 p.m. For more information call 4402-3333.

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Pots of Mussels

Daily: The Cellar.Join in for a bowl of steaming mussels paired with your favourite malt or white vino every night throughout December. Mussels and pomme frites night serves up authentic pots of mouth-watering steamed black mussels cooked in a variety of sauces – from the traditional garlic and white vino. A bowl of plump mussels and crispy fries is the perfect dish to share with friends or family. For more information call 4402-3333.

Choices Goes Italian

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

ROGER’S DINER

Daily: Suhaim Bin Hamad St., Al Sadd, C-Ring Road. Take off with a sizzling menu of American favourites in a unique aviation-themed atmosphere. Now offering a three-course business lunch for QR 55 from 12:00 noon till 3:00 pm. Sunday-Thursday. Open daily from 9:00 a.m. till 11:45 p.m. For more information call 4455-2333.

THE DIPLOMATIC CLUB Qanun Player

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

Lobster The Way You Like It

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

THE ST. REGIS DOHA Gordon Ramsay Classic Menu

Sat, Mon, Tues & Wed: Gordon Ramsay. Experience the magic of Gordon Ramsay as Michelin- starred Chef Gilles Bosquet prepares a 3-course menu featuring an exceptional selection of classic Gordon Ramsay dishes for QR 350. From 6:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4446-0106 or email diningreservations@stregis.com.

Burger & Pint Nights

Mon, Tues & Wed: Opal by Gordon Ramsay. Enjoy the tastiest and juiciest burger in Doha! Choose from lamb, fish, Wagyu beef or Opal’s vegetarian burger served with fluffy fat fries and homemade tomato sauce for QR 100. From 6:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4446-0105 or email diningreservations@stregis.com.

THE TORCH DOHA Tex- Mex Night

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

SHARQ VILLAGE & SPA Sushi Mania

Mon & Wed: Al Dana. Twice a week, choose your favourite from freshly-prepared sushi, maki and sashimi for QR 185 or QR 215 with sake. (Children ages 6-12 years old enjoy a 50% discount off the price of their meals.) From 6:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4425-6666.

Weekly Italian Night

Wednesdays: Al Liwan. The best of regional Italian cuisine, from the fragrant risottos of the north to the sumptuous seafood of the south, it’s all brought together every week for their Wednesday Italian extravaganza. Prego! QR 250 with soft drinks or QR 360 including house beverages. From 6:30 p.m. 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4425-6666.

WYNDHAM GRAND REGENCY Theme Nights At Grand Gourmet

Saturdays: Italian Night. QR 150 per person. Mondays: Far Eastern Night. QR 150 per person. Wednesdays: Seafood Night. QR 200 per person. Fridays: Arabian Night. QR 165 per person. From 6:30 p.m. till 10:30 p.m. For more information call 4434-3203/333.

WEEKEND DOHA MARRIOTT Gourmet Route

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

GRAND HERITAGE Sushi & Steak

Saturdays: Blue. Enjoy a sharing sushi platter along with your choice of US tenderloin steak. An option of Wagyu beef can be upgraded with just an additional QR 50. From 12:30 noon till midnight, for QR 215. Children five years old and younger dine with Blue’s compliments. For more information call 4445-5555.

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HOLIDAY VILLA HOTEL Thailand Food Festival

Thursdays: Lagenda. Delight your palate with typical Thai food for QR 168 per person and QR 88 for children between the ages of 4 to 12 years. From 7:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4408-4333.

Malaysian Hi Tea

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

ORYX ROTANA Indian Flavours

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

SHARQ VILLAGE & SPA Seafood Night At Al Liwan

Thursdays: Delicious jewels from the ocean depths are displayed in a tantalizing seafood buffet every Thursday evening. If marine delicacies are your taste, then this is sure to please. QR 280 including soft drinks or QR 390 including house beverages from 6:30 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4425-6666.

THE RITZ-CARLTON Paella With Pepe

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

THE TORCH DOHA Seafood Extravaganza

Thursdays: Flying Carpet. Find the catch of the day and a selection of seafood for grilling, frying, or cooked in the wok, plus many more. QR 250 per person including selected beverages. From 7:00 p.m. till 10:30 p.m. For more information call 4446-5600 or email reservations@thetorchdoha.com

W DOHA Burger Nights

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

Sushi Night

Saturdays: Spice Market. Add some flavour to the start of the week with Spice Marketâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s comprehensive sushi menu featuring assorted sushi, nigiri, maki and sashimi prepared with the secret condiments of three-Michelin star chef, Jean-Georges Vongerichten and his expert team. QR 230 from 6:00 p.m. till 10:30 p.m. For more information call 4453-5135.

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

SHERATON DOHA Parillada Night

Sun & Wed: Latino. All you can eat Argentinian parillada served at your table, including salad, dessert buffet and live entertainment. QR 190 food only or QR 270 with house beverages. From 7:00 p.m. till 10:30 p.m. For more information call 4485-4071 or email F&Breservatios.Doha@sheraton.com.

WYNDHAM GRAND REGENCY Sushi Fiesta

Thurs & Sat: Chopsticks Restaurant. Immerse yourself in an electrical range of original and sensational sushi platters from the sushi bar at Chopsticks, the award-winning restaurant. Try their special sushi made of chicken, beef and duck. Eat as much you can for only QR 129 per person, from 6:30 p.m. till 12:00 midnight. For more information call 4434-3203/3333 or email Fzohrahalably@wyndham.com.

BRUNCH CROWNE PLAZA DOHA – THE BUSINESS PARK Carnival Brunch

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

DOHA MARRIOTT Weekend Brunch

Fri & Sat: The Gallery. A culinary journey like no other, discover an array of live-cooking stations and specialties from the Restaurant Gallery, featuring favourite dishes from around the globe. Highlights from the weekend brunch include a wide selection of fresh sushi, Peking duck, fajitas, Oriental grills, pizza, curries, biryanis, fresh seafood, ice cream, kounafa and more. Now offering a kid’s club zone with a special kid’s buffet and activities.From 12:30 noon till 3:00 p.m. QR 245 or QR 350 for bubbly brunch. For more information call 4429-8499.

GRAND HERITAGE Friday Family Brunch

Blue. Enjoy a variety of international dishes in a market-style buffet with your choice of grilled meat or seafood, prepared at the live-cooking stations.Kids get to play and engage in various activities like the bouncy castle and a mascot appearance in the exclusively designed kid’s area adjacent to the restaurant. QR 220 per person inclusive of unlimited beverages, QR 199 for food only. Children five years and below enjoy a complimentary meal and kids ages six till 12 years old enjoy a meal at half the price. From 12:30 noon till 4:00 p.m. For more information call 4445-5555.

HILTON DOHA Friday Brunch

Mawasem. Every Friday join in at Mawasem for a day of fun and indulgence. Enjoy a sumptuous buffet with family and friends 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. The kids have their special food corner and a Kidz Paradize for fun activities. From 12:30 noon till 3:30 p.m. For more information call 4423-3333.

HOLIDAY VILLA HOTEL Dim Sum Brunch

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

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA Grand Mussel Brunch

Friday: Belgian Café. Enjoy the most delicious mussels and Belgian house beverages in town. From 12:30 noon till 3:30 p.m. for QR 275. For more information call 4484-4919 or 4484-4444. Seafood Brunch Fridays: Fish Market. Indulge in their luxurious buffet and a market display featuring lobsters, oysters and tiger prawns. Choose from a wide range of beverage options to complement your meal while enjoying live music and stunning views of the Arabian Sea and Doha’s skyline. QR 320 including unlimited house beverages. From 12:30 noon till 3:30 p.m. For more information call 4484-4919 or 4484-4444.

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA THE CITY Friday Brunch

The Square. Enjoy a cosmopolitan brunch for QR 330 including selected house beverages and QR230 including soft drinks and mocktails. From 12:00 noon till 4:00 p.m. For more information call 4015-8888 or doharestaurants@ihg.com.

MÖVENPICK HOTEL DOHA Friday Family Brunch

Seasons Restaurant. The lively Seasons restaurant is all geared-up with more yummy additions to the Friday brunch. Indulge in an elegant yet casual experience with free-flowing bubbly and enchanting music to complement the tasty buffet delights including fresh seafood, live cooking and sushi, plus an endless assortment of appetizers and dessert. Every Friday features an entirely new theme to amuse the little ones, from sly pirates and playful jungle monkeys to some very angry birds and the best of Disney’s classics. QR 215 per person with kids under the age of 12 dining free and from ages 12-16 enjoy a 50% discount. For more information call 4429-1111.

LA VARENNE French Country Brunch

Fridays: Tornado Tower. Their unique French Country Brunch is a success. Join in every Friday from 12:00 noon till 4:00 p.m. to indulge in their interpretation of a table-top brunch. Enjoy a full-course, all-you-care-to-eat menu with sharing-style dishes showcasing an array of the best La Varenne classics, along with their hors d’oeuvres and dessert trolleys all for QR 179. For more information call 4499-0680 or email reservations@lavarenne.qa.

ORYX ROTANA Jazzy Friday Brunch

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

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

Friday Family Brunch

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

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SHERATON DOHA Friday Brunch

Al Hubara. For QR 205 indulge in their international buffet featuring local specialties such as Ouzi and Oumali, plus a kidâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s area (balloons, face-painting), from 12:00 noon till 4:00 p.m. For more information call 4485-4071 or email F&Breservations.Doha@sheraton.com.

Friday Mediterranean Brunch

Al Shaheen. Liven up your weekend with a delicious sparkling Mediterranean brunch. The fabulous menu offers a myriad of culinary tastes including a wide selection of desserts of all kinds. Indulge amidst the stunning backdrop of the Arabian Gulf. Live entertainment and a spacious kids area available. From 11:00 a.m. till 4:00 p.m., QR 110 for children, QR 190 per adult for food only or QR 270 with free-flowing sparkling beverages. For more information call 4485-4071 or email F&Breservations.Doha@sheraton.com.

THE TORCH DOHA Barbecue Bazaar Brunch

Fridays: Flying Carpet. Choose from a wide selection of steaks, Oriental BBQ, fish, burgers and hot dogs for only QR 199 per person including selected beverages. Special rate for children between the ages of 6 and 12 for only QR 95. From 12:00 noon till 3:30 p.m. For more information call 4446-5600

W DOHA Jazz Brunch

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

Friday Brunch

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

BUSINESS LUNCH CHOWKING

Sun-Thurs: Enjoy a delicious meal with the trusted Chowking flavours you love in under 30 minutes. From 1:00 p.m. till 3:00 p.m. at all locations. For more information call Delivery Hotline: 4431-1212, Mamoura: 4486-6077 Al Khor: 4411-8816/17 Salwa Road: 4437-1212 Al Sadd St.: 4431-4411. Holiday Villa Hotel: 4411-5225/335.

See us online! om www.qatarhappening.c

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Food & Dining Listings THE ANVIL ROOMS

Daily: Choose a signature steak, a side, a sauce and a soft drink for QR 149 from 12 noon till 3:00 p.m. For more information call 4499-0685 or email reservations@theanvilrooms.qa.

KEMPINSKI RESIDENCES & SUITES

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

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA THE CITY

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

ORYX ROTANA X’Press Lunch & Dinner

Daily: The Cellar.Every day is quick bite time and everyone is ready for it. Enjoy the Cellar’s 3-course set menu including a large variety of starters, main dishes and desserts for only QR 95 per person for lunch and QR 150 per person for dinner, guaranteed to be served in 60 minutes. For more information call 4402-3333.

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

THE ST. REGIS DOHA

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

THE TORCH DOHA Casual Lunch

Sun-Thurs: Flying Carpet. Enjoy a delicious lunch that includes salad buffet, sandwich or pasta and hot beverage with a signature praline for QR 75. From 12:00 noon till 3:00 p.m. For more information call 4446-5600

W DOHA Express Lunch

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

WYNDHAM GRAND REGENCY

Daily (except Mon & Fri): Chopsticks. The business lunch offers the ideal solution for business professionals including a variety of distinctive modern Asian dishes. Indulge in their daily changing set menu of three courses served in 59 minutes. For more information call 4434-3203/3333 or email Fzohrahalably@wyndham.com.

SPECIAL LISTINGS

El Cigar Lounge

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

L’wzaar Seafood Market

Dec: Katara Cultural Village.Their special main course might be your first choice. Visit L’wzaar and relish their recommendation of the day. Available for lunch and dinner daily. Dec: With family and friends, come and celebrate any of your special occasions at L’wzaar and capture the moment for a happy and everlasting memory with a free snapshot featured in the L’wzaar Celebrant’s Book. Dec: Experience their Tandoori grill and Thai curry cooking styles for your fresh seafood. Other cooking styles are also available. Please ask the team for assistance. Dec: For every QR250 spent at L’wzaar Seafood Market, receive a discount voucher to experience El Cigar Lounge. For more information call 4408-0710.

ASPIRE KATARA HOSPITALITY Sukar Pasha Ottoman Lounge

Chac’late

Red Velvet

Shawarma Albisana

Dec: Katara Cultural Village. Succulent spit-roasted whole lamb, well-marinated, seasoned to perfection andserved with aromatic traditional Turkish rice for QR 99 per serving, starting at 7:00 p.m. Dec: For every QR 250 spent at Sukar Pasha Ottoman Lounge, receive a discount voucher to experience El Cigar Lounge. Available daily. For more information call 4408-2000.

Dec: Katara Cultural Village. Decorate Your Own Cupcake! It’s fun and very educational, the best way to spend quality time for families with their children. Each plain cupcake goes with edible decorations for only QR 30. Apron and chef’s hat will be provided. Dec: Come and celebrate your children’s birthday party at QR 60 per child with their Decorate Your Own Cupcake birthday party package. Advance reservation is required. Dec: One cool promotion. Get a free small bottle of water with every purchase of an ice cream sandwich. Dec: Purchase one cupcake and receive a free aromatic complimentary coffee. Available daily from 9:00 a.m. until 12:00 midnight. Dec: Grab your favourite cupcakes and take advantage of the 10% discount on a dozen. This offer is extended until December 2013. From 9:00 a.m. till 12:00 midnight. For more information call 4408-0700.

Dec: Katara Cultural Village. Enjoy 50% off on Amelia Rope chocolate, handmade chocolates that are all about quality, taste, purity and indulgence. Dec: Enjoy 20% off on Rococo chocolates – gastronomy’s finest, most complex and luxurious of ingredients. Dec: Enjoy their signature breakfast, Parisian or Chac’Late. Prices start from QR 30, available from 8:00 a.m. till 11:00 a.m. For more information call 4408-0733.

Dec: Katara Cultural Village. Enjoy your favourite chicken or beef shawarma with a cold soft drink for only QR15. For more information call 4408-1400.

Kunafa Albisana

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

leVesuvio

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

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Aspire Grand Café

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

Burgerry

Dec: Aspire Park.Due to high demand on weekends, Burgerry is now open from 11:00 a.m. till 2:00 a.m. on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays. On regular days, Sunday to Wednesday, it opens from 11:00 a.m. till 12:00 midnight. Dec: Take a bite on the ‘B. Majestic’, a perfectly-grilled, juicy Wagyu beef patty topped with cheddar cheese, lettuce, tomatoes, onions, pickles and mushroom sauce on a deliciously soft, buttered potato bun. For more information call 4449-3958.

QUISINE BY GUY SAVOY Dining Room

Dec: The Pearl-Qatar, Parcel 4, Unit 109. The main dining room offers patrons three potential private dining areas which can each welcome up to eight guests. The private dining rooms can also be opened up to create one large room and/ or two private dining rooms, depending on the needs of your party.

Chef’s Table

Dec: The chef’s table is ideally located in the kitchen to ensure that you feel, smell and live the truly Guy Savoy experience. The table gives you direct access behind-the-scenes where you can watch the skill and talented chefs.

Private Booking

Dec: The restaurant is available for private bookings on Saturdaysupon simple reservation, or one year in advance for other days of the week. For more information call 4002-7245 or email reservations@guysavoy.qa.

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

International

Chinese

4411-0188

Chopsticks 4434-3333

Al Hubara

4485-4444

Chili’s 4466-0663

D’Chopstix 4408-4888

Al Liwan Restaurant

4424-2888

Ipanema 4419-6100

Royal Bafilyon

4411-4458

Al Matbakh Rooftop Grill

4433-6777

Johnny Rockets

4455-2792

Ruby Wu’s

4428-1428

Al Shaheen Restaurant

4485-4444

Latino 4485-4444

Wok of Fame

4413-4772

Animato 4496-6600

Contemporary European

Choices 4402-3333

Oyster Bay

4446-0105

Paloma 4484-4444 Pampano 4495-3876 Ric’s Kountry Kitchen

4443-7846

Rodizio Brazilian Churrascaria

4408-7777

Salsa 4429-8888 TGI Friday’s

4488-7008

Arabic & Lebanese

Aroma 4405-3325 Astor Grill

4446-0105

Belgian Café

4484-4444

Gordon Ramsay

4446-0105

La Mer

4484-8000

Market by Jean-Georges

4453-5135

Nando’s

Delivery Hotline 4436-0606

Opal by Gordon Ramsay

4446-0105

Agora 4445-5555 Al Balad

4491-8692

French

Al Bandar

4431-1818

La Sahtaine

4423-3333 4499-0680

4432-8888

La Varenne

Al Canteen

4433-6666

Al Mourjan

4483-4423

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

Al Sayyad

4484-7420

Al Sultan Brahim

4419-6100

De Dine Zone Restaurant

4470-8822

East 4433-6666 Grand Gourmet

4434-3333

La Brasserie

4446-2222

La Cigalon Restaurant

4428-8888

Lifestyle Restaurant

4463-2154

Mehfil Restaurant Nando’s

4409-4444

Delivery Hotline 4436-0606

The Dining Room (Fraser Suites Hotel)

4424-3444

4446-0105

Quisine by Guy Savoy

The Grill

4448-1234

4498-2002

4495-3876 Sormani Ext. 3222

The Lagoon

4484-8000

4495-3876 4408-0840 4466-2616

Liza 4495-3876 Majlis 4448-1234 Marmara Istanbul

4424-7777

Maxim 4428-1428

Layali 4431-0005 Lebanese Shawarma

Cosmo Restaurant Crossroads Kitchen

4433-6666

Istanbul Sultan Dining Restaurant 4468-5089 Khan Rafouk Tarab Café

Corniche 4429-8888

The Dining Room (Al Najada Boutique Hotel)

Argan 4433-6666 Burj Al Hamam

4472-2666

Mawasem 4423-3333

Al Batross

Al Tawash

Blue Brasserie Restaurant

4436-2947

Tajine 4435-5554 Tangia 4434-3333 The Tent

4432-8888

Turkey Central

4443-2927

4002-7245

Vine 4446-0105

Indian Biryani Hut

4464-1401

Bombay Baiti

4428-1428

Italian Bice Ristorante

4495-3876

Chingari 4428-1428

Carluccio’s 4495-3876

Idyl Factory

6674-1143

Cucina 4419-6100

Royal Indian

4466-6876

Di Capri

4428-8698

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

Fabio’s Pizza

4416-5641

II Teatro

4494-8888

La Dolce Vita Italian Restaurant

4436-7991

La Veranda

4485-4444

Saffron Lounge

3325-8919

Sukh Sagar

4431-9172

Taj Rasol

4429-8888

linoem! s opn Sewe.qau ing.c tarhap en

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

4451-7585

The Italian Job

4428-1428

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Japanese

Bar Food

Cafés

Neo 4432-2508

Belgian Café

4484-4444

4442-8989

De Ozone

4470-8822

Alison Nelson’s Chocolate Bar

4495-3878 Ext. 1311

Sakura 4428-1428

Madison Piano Bar

4428-8888

Al Jalsa

4425-6666

Strata Restaurant & Lounge

4015-8888

Pool Bar

4484-4444

Al Kut Lounge

4434-3203

Sushi Minto

4467-5577

Shehrazad 4428-1428

Al Mandarine

4463-3748

Yen Sushi Bar

4428-8888

The Irish Harp

4485-4444

Atrium Lounge

4485-4444

The Lounge

4405-3325

Bab Al Baher

4423-3333

Oishi Sushi

Mediterranean

Wahm 4453-5353

Aramede 4408-7777

Burgers

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

Bistro Bistro

4428-1428

La Villa

4446-2222

American Grill

Le Central Restaurant

4428-8888

Chili’s 4466-0663

Medi @ The Village

4444-4700

Fuddruckers

4411-0188 4483-3983

Café De Biznez

4470-8822

Café Tasse

4444-7017

Café Vergnano 4495-3876 Ext. 2611

Mykonos 4484-4444

Hardee’s 4467-8750

Coffee Time

4466-7551

Rocca 4448-1234

Johnny Rockets

4455-2792

Colombiano

4434-2753

The Cellar

TGI Friday’s

4488-7008

Dean and Deluca

4451-9780

Dell @ The Village

4444-4700

Gourmet House

4405-3333

Jones the Grocer

4407-7175

La Margarita

4409-4444

Le Gourmet

4436-1789

Lime Café

4496-6600

Maya La Chocolatiere Landmark Mall Villaggio Mall MBCo (The Gate Mall) Al Emaadi Financial Square

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

Moka and Co

4458-3232

Orangery Café Troittor

4428-8888

Quick Bites

4419-6134

4428-1428

Sarab Lounge

4446-0105

JW’s Steakhouse

4429-8888

Savor 4408-7777

Le Grill

4484-7412

Shisha Garden

4428-8888

New York Steakhouse

4419-6100

Sky Lounge

4402-3333

Prime 4015-8888

Sugar and Spice

4411-4456

The Butcher Shop and Grill

4413-5508

The Courtyard

4433-6444

The Old Manor Steakhouse

4446-2222

The Drawing Room

4433-6666

The Lobby Lounge

4484-8000

The Terrace Lounge

4433-6555

Torch Café

4446-5600

W Café

4453-5353

Ya Hala

4423-3333

4402-3333

Seafood

Persian Grill @ The Village

4444-4700

Southeast Asian Asia Live!

4429-8888

Chowking Delivery Hotline 4431-1212 Mamoura 4486-6077 Al Khor 4411-8816/17 Salwa Road 4437-1212 Al Sadd St. 4431-4411 4411-5225/335 Holiday Villa Mango Tree

4495-3876

Nusantao: Sea Kitchens

4494-8888

Spice Market

4453-5353

Sri Kebaya

4434-0838

The Noodle House City Center Mall The Pearl

4411-5063 4495-3876

Wok Mee Noodle House

4496-6600

Al Dana

4425-6666

Al Dente Seafood Restaurant

4472-2666

Al Sayyad

4484-7420

Al Sultan Brahim

4446-0105

Fish Market

4484-4444

L’wzaar 4408-0710 Pampano 4495-3876 Pier 12

4428-1428

Steakhouses Bentley’s Grill

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Sports

s k c i P p o T ’s This Month

Qatar Cycling Federation

Doha Cycling Grand Prix

Dec 1-6: The cycling enthusiast will be pedaling away all around Doha this December. Do you have what it takes to go the distance? For more information visit www.facebook.com/pages/Qatar-Cycling-Federation.

Al Gharafa Indoor Spor ts Hall 3X3 International Basketball Tournament Dec 5-7: Watch the masters of basketball battle it out in the court. Go hard in the paint and root for your favourite players. For more information visit www.3x3planet.com.

Qatar Bowling Center 13th Qatar Bowling Open Dec 8-14: If you’re a bowling aficionado this is an event that you don’t want to miss so get some good seats and keep your eye on the pins. For more information call 4432-9178.

OUT om .c CHECaK ppening

atarh tion! www.qthe latest informa for

QH Dec 2013- FINAL.indd 95

Qatar Cycling Federation Qatar Golden Jersey Cycling Tour Dec 7-10: Enjoy a professional cycling event as hundreds of riders zoom along the roads of downtown Doha. For more information visit www.facebook.com/pages/Qatar-Cycling-Federation.

Aspire Dome Doha Goals Dec 9-11: Doha Goals is the premier gathering of its kind, boasting the biggest leaders in sport in attendance. Launched by the Aspire Zone Foundation under the patronage of his Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, the Emir of Qatar. For more information visit www.dohagoals.com.

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Sports Mikhail Youzhny

Tennis

Mania By Jorge Granda

Top world tennis stars will start their year in Doha participating in the 22nd edition of the Qatar ExxonMobil Open 2014. QH has the inside track on the full schedule of games, prize winnings and star sightings.

ince 1993 the Khalifa International Tennis and Squash Complex has been the venue in which many of the top male tennis players in the world start their ATP World Tour. The event provides players the chance to get a footing on the circuit before travelling to the Australian Open, held two weeks later in Melbourne. More than 35,000 tennis fans attended last year’s edition of the tournament which saw Frenchman Richard Gasquet defeating Russian Nikolay Davydenko to claim the coveted title and prize money. This year the competition will be fierce as some of the world’s top players will be participating in the Qatar ExxonMobil Open 2014. Celebrity champions Rafael Nadal, Andy Murray,

David Ferrer, Tomas Berdych, Richard Gasquet and Gaël Monfils will all hit the courts here in Doha. The event will take place from Monday, December 30, 2013 till Saturday, January 4, 2014.

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

David Ferrer

rounds. These qualifying matches are played on Saturday and Sunday, December 29-30, 2013. 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 a knock-out format consisting of 16 doubles teams. Ten are secured spots based on the ATP World Tour Doubles ranking as a team. Four spots are provided for teams who pair up on the spot and two spots are reserved for wild-card entries.

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2012 champion Richard Gasquet

Schedule Of Play

3rd Match – Followed by 4th Match – Followed by

Monday, Dec 30, 2013 1st Match – 3:30 p.m. 2nd Match – 5:30 p.m. (official opening match of tournament) 3rd Match – Followed by 4th Match – Followed by

Philipp Kohlschreiber

Friday, Jan 3, 2014 Doubles Final – 4:00 p.m. Singles Semi – Followed by Singles Semi – Followed by

Tuesday, Dec 31, 2013 1st Match – 3:30 p.m. 2nd Match – Followed by 3rd Match – Followed by 4th Match – Followed by

Saturday, Jan 4, 2014 Singles Final – 5:30 p.m. Followed by Trophy Presentation

Gaël Monfils

Also On-Site • VIP Village – for VIP guests it 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 n

Wednesday, Jan 1, 2014 1st Match – 3:30 p.m. 2nd Match – Followed by 3rd Match – Followed by 4th Match – Followed by Thursday, Jan 2, 2014 1st Match – 3:30 p.m. 2nd Match – Followed by

Prices For ExxonMobil 2014 Tickets

Uppers Middles A/C

Middle B

Lowers

Lowers + VIP

Ground

Day One

QR 25

QR 80

QR 120

QR 400

QR 10

Day Two

QR 25

QR 80

QR 120

QR 400

QR 10

Day Three QR 35

QR 35

QR 80

QR 120

QR 400

QR 10

Day Four

QR 45

QR 65

QR 150

QR 200

QR 450

QR 10

Day Five

QR 65

QR 85

QR 200

QR 250

QR 500

QR 10

Day Six

QR 85

QR 110

QR 250

QR 300

QR 550

QR 10

Qatar ExxonMobil Open 2014 Category: ATP World Tour 250 series Dates: From Dec 30, 2013 - Jan 4, 2014 Venue: Khalifa International Tennis and Squash Complex Draw Size: 32 players in singles 16 doubles teams Confirmed Players: Rafael Nadal, Andy Murray, David Ferrer, Tomas Berdych, Richard Gasquet, Gael Monfils.

A new ticket level: Middle B + VIP Day One: Day Two: Day Three: Day Four: Day Five: Day Six:

QR 350 QR 350 QR 350 QR 400 QR 450 QR 500

Tickets will be available at City Center, Landmark and Lagoona malls and at the Khalifa International Tennis and Squash Complex.

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Sports

For The Love Of The Game By John Hunt Images courtesy of QSL

Why wait until 2022? With some of the top names gracing the football pitch, the Qatar Stars League (QSL) offers world-class competition on home-grown turf.

t’s only eight years until the World Cup arrives in Qatar in 2022, when the superstars of the global game will converge for what is hoped to be a football spectacular to remember. However, it should not be forgotten that there is already top-class football being played in Qatar every week right now in the shape of the Qatar Stars League (QSL) – where players of national and international renown are on show each weekend. For many expats, though, the QSL remains something of an unknown quantity – a conception the QSL organizers are eager to change. While the clock ticks down to 2022, the QSL is busying itself to become more professional and attractive with every passing day.

Of course, if football is your thing then simply turning on your TV provides an endless supply of action from the best leagues worldwide. But what if you want to actually go to a game? What if you want to experience top-flight professional football in the flesh? Thanks to the QSL, you can. With games most Fridays and Saturdays, the schedule for QSL matches can fit perfectly into plans for families or groups of friends. You can even buy your tickets online at the QSL’s official website. There is no shortage of quality either: Real Madrid legend Raul has just begun his second year of QSL action. After breaking numerous records with Madrid – and gaining over 100 caps for Spain – Raul signed for Al Sadd last summer and inspired

Qatari footballer Khalfan Ibrahim is a mid-fielder for Al Sadd and also plays for the country’s national team

them to the league championship. Former Glasgow Rangers star Madjid Bougherra is captain of Lekhwiya, and former Celtic and Getafe star Miku has just signed with Al Gharafa – a team managed by Brazilian legend Zico. Brazilian star Nene arrived from Paris Saint Germain in the summer, Lyon hero Lisandro Lopez signed for Gharafa before the start of this season, and that’s before you even mention revered Qatari stars such as Khalfan Ibrahim, Wezam Rizik and Sebastian Soria. The organizers of the QSL are keen to get the message across that there is quality in the QSL, there is entertainment. As any football fan will tell you, there’s no substitute to actually going to the game.

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Former Real Madrid star Raúl González is now a striker for Al Sadd

For Hani Ballan, Deputy CEO of the QSL, he and his colleagues’ work will continue until the QSL becomes the best domestic competition in the Gulf. He said: “We are building towards a very important tournament in 2022 and the QSL has a major part to play in that.”

Fans crowd the stadium in support of their favourite QSL teams

“We have expanded to 14 teams – a move we believe will give clubs the opportunity to play more youngsters and improve the standard of the league. In Qatar we have the infrastructure and facilities. I also believe we have the talent, and we also have the coaching. Ultimately, the aim for us is to attract fans to games. This is the goal of everyone within the QSL and I think we are entering a very important phase in Qatar football’s journey.”

The obvious question an expat might ask is: ‘why would I go to a QSL game when I could watch Manchester United or Barcelona on TV?’, but that is a challenge faced by every smaller domestic league in the world, not just Qatar. However, in an environment where so many people seek friendship and like-minded people in a foreign country, football can form a bond to enhance the experience of life in Qatar.

For the QSL, community is key. Through a series of outreach initiatives, the QSL hopes to engage the hearts and minds of people from all walks of life, from all over the world. This season, the league hopes to continue its work developing relationships with key groups in order to cultivate a natural bond between the diverse groups and cultures of Qatar and its football clubs.

Former Rangers star Bougherra is one of many players enjoying life in Doha. He is well-versed in the QSL by now, having spent almost three years playing for Lekhwiya, who were QSL champions in 2011 and 2012. He told us: “No matter where you go in life, people love football. They want to watch it with their friends; they want to talk about what happened on the pitch with their favourite teams.”

“The standard of football in the QSL is good, there should be no mistake about that,” he continues. “There are very good players and the league is very tight. I have enjoyed my time in the QSL immensely so far. I’ve experienced success and won trophies. It was a change, and something different for me, but I have loved every minute.” The image that QSL is trying to project is that it is a quality and continuously improving product that offers entertainment for all, and can also have a positive social impact. What’s more, ticket prices start at just QR 10 so it’s less a case of ‘why try the QSL?’ and more a case of ‘why not?’ n For more information on the QSL visit www.qsl.com.qa for news, fixtures and ticket information.

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Sports

Shaden is all intense focus, speed and agility as she goes in for a jump off the pommel horse apparatus

Qatar’s Sports Prodigy Sets The Bar High By Mai Akkad Images courtesy of Alexandra Panagiotidou

In commemoration of National Day, Qatar takes pride in its nationals who contribute to the country’s success. We sat down with artistic gymnastics champion and aspiring sports journalist, Shaden Wahdan to learn about her thriving career opportunities in sports.

he 2011 Arab Games gold medalist in artistic gymnastics, Shaden Wahdan is one of Qatar’s young talents who are contributing to its mission as a sports capital in the Gulf region. Born to parents who have a sports background, both her father and mother did track and field and Wahdan is no stranger to the athletic lifestyle.

Becoming a competitive gymnast has its price. It’s demanding physically, mentally and also on the amount of time required to perfect your skill. However for 18-year old Wahdan the rewards she experiences from committing to her passion are what keep her going on. “All the hard work pays off when you accomplish something or win a medal,” says the tanned brunette.

work encourages me to train and my training encourages me to work.”

She made her debut on the podium when she was only five years old. “My mother wanted me to do gymnastics because it is the base of any sport, then I would have the option to decide which sport I would like to,” she says. But the outstanding athleticism combined with the aesthetics and gracefulness that gymnastics integrates, motivated young Wahdan to take her training to the next level.

While Wahdan commits to her three-hour daily training and regular competitions, she is also enrolled as a full-time journalism student in Northwestern University in Qatar. “I’m really interested in sports journalism since it’s related to gymnastics,” she explains. “When I participate in competitions and I see all of these journalists and sports broadcasters, their job really appeals to me.”

In the midst of her very hectic schedule, Wahdan enjoys hanging out with her friends and travelling for leisure when she gets the opportunity. But what she’s passionate about the most after sports is cars. She just got her driver’s license last month and is looking forward to buying a German car. “I really like Mercedes… it’s very elegant. German cars in general are the best,” she says excitedly.

In 2003, she joined the Qatar National Team. Eight years later, she won two gold medals in the 2011 Arab Games. “Qatar never won a gold medal in the Arab games so it felt really good,” she says.

She admits that balancing training and studies is not an easy task. “There are days when it gets very difficult and it stresses me out a lot,” she says. But having such limited time helps Wahdan keep her eyes on the goal. “My school

Apart from her university studies, Wahdan’s next top completions on the list are the 2015 Arab Games in Lebanon and the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro. Without a doubt the eyes of Qatar will be on this aspiring young athlete. n

All smiles, Shaden takes pride in representing Qatar on the sporting world stage

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Sports

Gym Junkies Compiled by Jorge Granda Photography by Jessie Palanca Additional images courtesy of the InterContinental Doha and Sheraton Doha

The holidays are upon us, replete with a multitude of heavy dinners, parties and extra pounds. QH visits three of the top gyms and fitness centres to bring you the best class info, exercise routines and tips from Doha’s most accomplished trainers. So get out there and beat that bulge!

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA The Bay Club Fitness December Fitness Classes • Body Pump is one of the most popular classes from instructor Les Mills, that gives you a total body work-out using free weights. This pre-choreographed class is set to the latest music and focuses on toning your muscles, burning calories and boosting your metabolism. • Body Combat and Boxing Fitness classes are high-impact classes based on martial arts and boxing moves. They challenge your cardiovascular system, co-ordination and endurance and are very efficient for weight loss. A great alternative to jogging, cycling or using any gym cardio equipment. • Pilates, Yoga and Mind & Body classes are low-impact routines that help strengthen your core, increase flexibility and improve your balance. Maximize their benefits by combining with weight training and cardio workouts.

Tips From The Trainer • Stay active. Do any kind of activity at least three hours per week. It can be jogging, weight lifting, playing tennis, doing spinning or a Pilates class. The more variety the better because our bodies get used to the same exercise very quickly. It’s efficient to combine weight training with intense cardio sessions and balanceflexibility exercises. You can perform those exercises on different days as separate workouts or during one training session. • When it comes to nutrition, moderation is the key. Don’t spoil yourself with your favouritefood but consume small quantities of it. Never skip breakfast, eat small portions, consume enough vegetables, drink plenty of water and avoid eating late at night.

We love the natural light and ocean view at the Bay Club

Membership Fees Single: QR 13,500, yearly QR 8,250, six months QR 4,450, three months QR 1,950, one month Couples: QR 17,500, yearly Families: QR 22,000, yearly Contact Info: For more information call 4484-4852

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SHERATON DOHA Health Club Group Fitness The hotel’s fitness studios hold a variety of group classes to fit every skill level. A Dance Sport schedule with professional dance instructor Pierre Brakhia includes tango, salsa, samba and cha cha – all levels welcome and private lessons offered. Other classes include ballet for girls with renowned ballet instructor Isabelle Khan; indoor Schwinn cycling; Heavy Power, a class designed and developed by Iren Vayvards; zumba, with some of the best instructors in Qatar – namely Imad Askar; mixed martial arts (MMA) conditioning by the well-known Haitham, and flamenco and Latin dance for girls by professional dancer Cristina Cobos. The Health Club also has the Doha Aikido Club offering five scheduled classes a week to all levels and ages of students. More recent additions to the group exercise schedule are Swasthi yoga, instructed by the founder himself, Vishnu Prasad, with a concept based on developing a better way of achieving inner transformation, and kick-boxing by professional world- ranked kick-boxer Inigo. A professional athlete and instructor, Inigo spent many years teaching and training at one of England’s best known boxing clubs.

Tennis & Squash The club has three outdoor courts and three indoor courts, fully-staffed with qualified, professional instructors. • Tennis Social Group Mondays from 8:00 p.m. till 10:00 p.m. and Fridays from 4:00 p.m. till 7:00 p.m. with Celestino. Members only. • Ladies Social Group Sundays and Tuesdays from 9:00 a.m. till 12:00 noon with Reynaldo. • Social Squash Group Mondays from 6:00 p.m. till 9:00 p.m. and Wednesdays from 5:00 p.m. till 8:00 p.m. Members only.

Tips From The Trainer • Exercise at least three times a week • Commit to a schedule • Follow the four pillars: prepare for it, fuel for it, train for it, rest for it • Follow a proper diet and watch your weight • Educate your body

Practice your serve at the Sheraton Health Club’s indoor tennis courts

Membership Fees Single: QR 10,000 + Joining fee QR 3,500 (first year) Couple: QR 13,000 + Joining fee QR 4,000 (first year) Family: Starting from QR 14,000 + Joining fee QR 5,000 (first year) Contact Info: For more information call 4485-4600

Health Club manager Medhat can help you select a fitness program that’s right for you

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Sports

CROWNE PLAZA DOHA – THE BUSINESS PARK The Facility The hotel’s recreation area provides a variety of options from fitness and relaxation to rejuvenation. This includes a 24-hour fullyequipped gym with state-of-the-art machines from Technogym including kinesis, stretching machines, resistance machines and a cardio range with internet connection and games. Their fitness instructors are fully-qualified to provide expert guidance and motivation for workouts, ensuring you use the correct technique not only to prevent injury but also help you get the best results. Personal training for adults, individuals and group swimming lessons for kids and adults are also available. There’s also a kids’ pool with water umbrella fountain and toys that can be provided upon request for children to play with. Or, open your pores and air-ways in their separate male and female spa area with steam-room and sauna, leaving you refreshed and energized. Open from 7:00 a.m. till 10:00 p.m.

• It’s easy to come up with excuses not to exercise, however simple things like using the stairs and moving often, are also forms of exercise that improve your fitness. • Most people prefer working out in the mornings as this not only gives you a sense of achievement but also jump-starts your metabolic rate. • It’s important to choose a cardio exercise that you enjoy, so you won’t get bored of it or find excuses to skip it. Thirty minutes, four times a week is a great routine to keep fit for any person; the intensity will depend on the fitness level of an individual.

Tips From The Trainer

• Breakfast is the most important meal of the day and should be of good quantity, while you lessen the amount you consume for your other meals throughout the day. The logic behind this is that your body is not active when you sleep, hence you don’t need to eat a lot for your last meal of the day.

• Discipline, dedication and determination for your exercise routine is what you need to stay fit – a one hour workout constitutes only 4% of your day.

• Try to eat a rainbow of fruits and vegetables every day and with every meal, the brighter the better. Colourful fruits and vegetables contain

Recreation Manager Samuel Odihambo warms his class up with a stretch

higher concentrations of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, plus different colours provide different benefits, so eat a variety. Aim for a minimum of five portions each day. • Remember, exercise is cheaper than medical bills. n

Membership Fees Single: QR 1,500, monthly QR 7,000, yearly Couple: QR 2,500, monthly QR 9,000, yearly Contact Info: For more information call 4408-7582

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Sports

Cult g in in ra T s s e n it F p u ro G e h T By Jonny Parr Photography by Jessie Palanca

Looking for some extra motivation to give you a kickstart off the couch? Group classes can pack that extra punch, as two are better than one for moral support and ten or more are a team that will help you reach your fitness goals in no time. This month Absolute Fitness shows you how. “‘One more rep, keep working hard, push it!’” “The extra motivation Jonny was providing me was just what I needed. I felt like I was about to hit a wall, and I needed some support to smash through it. Jonny barked again, ‘Dig deep, give me all the energy you have left, and you’ll reap the benefits, keep going!’” “By this point, other members of the group started to assist Jonny in the support of my goals. I felt like I was running on empty, but the

Absolute Fitness trainer Ryan Bell does some stretching warm-ups before kicking the bootcamp into high gear

group gave me renewed belief. I quickly realized I had something extra to give, and squeezed out my last rep. The fitness drill was over. I lay on the grass in a heap, eyes closed, focusing intently on my heart beating out my chest while I tried to catch my breath. I was tired, exhausted even, but I felt great. I was on a high, I felt an enormous sense of achievement, and I couldn’t stop smiling. I was victorious.” The view expressed above was that of Kate Owens, a teacher at the Doha English Speaking

School. She had just completed her last set of squats within a metabolic-focused circuit. She, like so many others, started to benefit, and in many ways get hooked, to training in a group setting. Today, fitness training in groups generates huge interest. Exact classes vary – boot camps, CrossFit, spin classes, yoga - the list really is endless. So popular are these forms of fitness, that many have developed a somewhat cult following. So what’s all the fuss about?

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Jonny Parr (far right) and his bootcamp team from the Doha English Speaking School

The team from the W Doha get up early every Friday morning to get fit and have fun

Benefits 1. Environment and Social Development Most humans are incredibly social. The fitness class environment allows people to meet and interact with others. This helps form relationships and is incredibly effective for developing personality traits such as confidence, self-esteem, and communication skills. Furthermore, new friendships are regularly formed due to everyone having similar goals. This is incredibly beneficial, as it’s always easier to reach your targets with like-minded individuals. Group dynamics and camaraderie is contagious, so working and pushing yourself as hard as you can is far more likely. No one wants to fall behind after all! 2. Support Network and Motivation While we would all love to be highly-motivated every time we train, the truth of the matter is we all experience days when running up a hill or lifting a sandbag sounds as appealing as pulling your fingernails. Your trainer of course, can support and push you to reach your goals. However, imagine 20+ people who are in a similar position as yourself, who can provide additional motivation and support to help you reach new levels of fitness you never thought possible. This extra support is priceless, and a key tool in getting you the results you seek. 3. Life Becomes Easier Make no mistake, traits you develop in fitness classes are taken into other avenues of your life such as work and your relationships. Some physical attributes you will obtain include improved muscular endurance, conditioning, work capacity, and reduced body fat. Moreover, mentally you will become more determined, confident, and disciplined.

Using each other for support and motivation, team members dig deep and feel the burn

4. Community and Togetherness People love to be part of a community. In Qatar, this can sometimes prove to be very difficult whether it be lack of opportunities or lack of time. Fitness groups such as our very own boot camps where we come to you at a location and time of your convenience, allow people to interact, learn and engage with each other. What makes this even more special is that people tend to come from different parts of the world from one another. This means everyone can learn and better understand each other’s cultures and experiences. A close community is incredibly special, and the somewhat simple act of coming together for a boot camp, can lead to long-lasting and fruitful friendships that you probably initially thought wouldn’t be possible. 5. Education and Empowerment One of the primary aims of Absolute Fitness is to educate and empower the people of Qatar to lead healthier and fitter lifestyles. Guiding, instructing and supporting our clients to lead such a lifestyle should be an ongoing process. Too often, people set a goal such as losing five kilos, and when they achieve this, they go back to their old unhealthy habits. It doesn’t take long for that five kilos to make its way back to their waistline.

At AF we promote lifelong fitness. Our fitness classes promote this ideal. We want to empower you to be able to make correct fitness, health and nutritional decisions all the time, not just when you’re working directly with us. Therefore, our groups always receive additional support such as nutritional guidance, monitoring and countless free fitness advice via streams such as our Facebook page and website. To summarize, group fitness training most certainly appears to have a cult following. The benefits such as those discussed in this article are just some reasons why a large number of people get involved. What’s more, you can too. You may be anxious to begin with, but this first step out of your comfort zone will lead you to a healthier, fitter, happier and more productive life. These reasons are as good as any to get started today. n Jonny Parr is the founder of Absolute Fitness in Qatar (www.absolutefitnessqatar.com). If you’re interested in individual or group personal training, please phone 3385-2696 or email info@absolutefitness.me.

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Sports Listings RECOMMENDS

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EVERY WEEK GOKULAM PARK DOHA Sports & Fitness

THE DIPLOMATIC CLUB Water Sport Activities

Daily: The blue waters of the West Bay lagoon beckon to all who love to ride the waves. An array of water sport activities are available on request, ranging from wakeboarding, kayaking, screamer rides, banana boat rides, fishing and leisure boat trips to dinghy sailing. From 10:00 a.m. till 10:45 a.m. For more information on all classes call 4484-7450 or email spa.recreation@dclub.com.qa.

ONE OF A KIND ASPIRE ZONE Qatar Olympic Day

Dec 12: Enjoy Qatar’s favourite sporting day. For more information visit www.olympic.qa/en/EventsCalendar.

SHERATON DOHA Qatar Golden Cup Body-Building Championship

Dec 13: Some of the toughest guys in the sport will be in Doha this month to battle it out at the Sheraton. For more information visit www.olympic.qa/en/EventsCalendar.

QATAR WOMEN’S SPORT COMMITTEE Rhythmic Gymnastics Arab Championships

Dec 16-18: Enjoy the beauty and excitement of rhythmic gymnastics with some of the top athletes in the field. Held at Aspire Zone. For more information visit www.sportday.qa.

QATAR EQUESTRIAN FEDERATION Qatar International Show Jumping Championships

Dec 19-20: The horse show everyone is waiting for! For more information visit the Equestrian Club’s Facebook page.

QATAR SAILING CLUB Optimist World Team Racing Championship 2013

Dec 27-31: Watch the masters of sailing do what they do best! For more information call 4443-9840

SHARQ VILLAGE & SPA Outdoor Full Moon Yoga

Dec 17: Come invigorate the body and mind as you connect with various moon salutations and combine meditation with breathing techniques. This event is for any yoga skeptic and is an enjoyable activity for all ages. Charges apply. Starts at 7:00 p.m. For more information call 4425-6999.

8KM-14KM Charity Run/Walk

Dec 14: The Corniche. The Six Senses Spa hosts its 11th official Charity Run/Walk along the Corniche. This health awareness event is in promotion of positive well-being. All proceeds collected will be donated to Qatar Charity. Starts at 2:00 p.m., registration at the spa opens at 1:30 p.m. For more information call 4425-6999.

See us online! om www.qatarhappening.c

Daily: Health Club. Burn off your calories at the state of the art health club with the latest equipment or draw out toxins while soothing weary or aching muscles and joints in 12th floor sauna and steam-room. Facilities are open Sun-Thurs from 6:00 a.m. till 11:00 p.m. and Fri and Sat from 8:00 a.m. till 8:00 p.m. For more information call 4470-8822 or visit www.gokulamdoha.com.

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA Abdominal Workout

Mon, Thurs & Fri: A conditioning workout focusing on toning and strengthening your core muscles. Your instructor will focus on developing and maintaining correct techniques to ensure that you receive the benefits of this workout. Mondays from 5:00 p.m. till 5:45 p.m., Fridays from 9:00 a.m. till 9:45 a.m. and Thursdays from 7:00 p.m. till 7:45 p.m., members free / non-members QR 50.

Pilates Sculpt

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

Boot Camp

Fridays: This class takes place outdoors and is a group fitness workout. The class is designed to build strength and develop fitness through a variety of intensive interval exercises. Feel the burn while getting fit! From 8:00 a.m. till 9:00 a.m., members QR 30/non-members QR 50.

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Body Combat

Sun & Thurs: This class focuses on a variety of martial arts and stand-up combat sports based on kicking and punching exercises. This class focuses on a total body workout while developing your cardiovascular system. Sundays from 7:30 p.m. till 8:30 p.m., Thursdays from 10:00 a.m. till 11:00 a.m., members QR 30/non-members QR 50. For more information on all classes call 4484-4852.

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA THE CITY

Pilates: Tuesdays, QR 50. From 9:15 a.m. till 10:15 a.m. Core Ball Shape: Tuesdays, QR 50. From 6:00 p.m. till 7:00 p.m. Circuit Class: Wednesdays, QR 50. From 9:15 a.m. till 10:15 a.m. Crunch Time: Wednesdays, QR 40. From 6:00 p.m. till 5:30 p.m. For more information on all classes call 4015-8888.

SHARQ VILLAGE & SPA Six Senses Spa Fitness Promotions Daily: Stay fit and healthy with Six Senses Spa at Sharq Village & Spa. Buy 30 personal training sessions and get three sessions free. Buy 30 partner training sessions and get 3 additional sessions free. Buy 10 power shakes and get 2 sessions free. For more information call 4425-6999.

SHERATON DOHA Health & Recreation Class Schedule

Indoor Cycling: Fridays, QR 30/QR 40 nonmembers. From 10:00 a.m. till 11:30 am. Zumba: Fridays, QR 30/QR 40 non-members, from 10:00 a.m. till 11:00 a.m. Sundays & Tuesdays from 12:30 noon till 8:30 p.m. Yoga & Pilates: Saturdays, QR 80 members and non- members. From 9:00 a.m. till 10:30 a.m. Step Power: Sat, Mon & Wed, QR 80 members and QR 100 non-members/per class and QR 500 members and QR 700 non- members on a monthly basis. From 10:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information on all classes call 4485-4444.

THE ST. REGIS DOHA Adult Tennis Clinic – ‘Improve Your Serve’

Fridays: Serve like a pro with personal coaching lessons focused on improving your tennis serve. Maximum three people per class. Qualified tennis instructors, equipment provided if required. QR 150 per person. From 9:00 till 10:00 a.m. (limited space). For more information call 4446-0304 or email recreation.doha@stregis.com.

Snorkelling Adventures

Fri- Mon: Luxury speedboat departs from the private jetty at The St. Regis Doha as you enjoy a scenic tour of the coastline then snorkel in the warm waters of the Arabian Gulf. Snorkelling gear provided (mask, fins, tuba). Water and towels also provided. Reservations required. QR 230 per person. From 10:15 a.m. till 11:15 a.m. For more information call 4446-0304 or email recreation.doha@stregis.com.

Sunset Cruise

By reservation only: Luxury speedboat departs from private jetty at The St. Regis Doha as you enjoy a scenic tour of the coastline, the MIA Park and dhow area before heading out to sand island. Reservations required. QR 230, from 5:30 p.m. till 6:30 p.m. For more information call 4446-0304 or email recreation.doha@stregis.com.

THE DIPLOMATIC CLUB Pilates

Sun, Mon & Wed: Pilates is the system of strengthening and stretching exercises design to develop the body’s core, mobilize the spine and build flexibility. It teaches you how to train your mind and build symmetry and coordination in the body. From 5:00 p.m. till 5:45 p.m.

Zumba

Mon, Tues & Thurs: A global lifestyle brand that fuses fitness, entertainment and culture into an exhilarating dance party workout! A combination of different types of dance styles from hip-hop and Latin to house and even contemporary, this 50-minute cardio workout will have something for everybody! Mondays from 6:15 p.m. till 7:15 p.m., Tuesdays and Thursdays from 5:00 p.m. till 5:45 p.m.

Aqua Fitness

Sat & Tues: Captivates the joy of movement and the expression of life through integrating world rhythms and music. The fusion of aquatic fitness with dance-based choreography will give you a movement base free from the boundaries. From 10:00 a.m. till 10:45 a.m.

WYNDHAM GRAND REGENCY Perfect Figure Fat Burning Studio

Sat-Thurs: The Perfect Figure Fat Burning Studio is one-of-a-kind in Qatar. Perfect Figure therapy is a natural and effective alternative to surgery and the aim is to eliminate cellulite and burn fat. Results are obtained through exercising under low atmosphere pressure, which optimizes the results. From 10:00 a.m. till 7:00 p.m. To book your course or for more information call 4434-3446/3333

Activities & Clubs Bike Riding

The Corniche Aspire Park

Bowling

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

Golf

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

Horse Riding

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

Ice-Skating

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

Sailing

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

Swimming

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

Tennis & Squash

Khalifa Tennis & Squash Complex 4440-9666

Walking

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

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QH Sensations

RECOMMENDS

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

ick! P ’s r o t i d E

Ashlee Pilates For Dummies With the holidays upon us, alongside the spirit of giving I’m working hard to find the spirit of exercise within me and balancing it with the spirit of chowing down on too many Christmas sweets. I’ve been trying a few different workout programs but I’ve recently found one that’s just the ticket – Pilates For Dummies. It’s a 38-minute introductory DVD that familiarizes the complete newbie to the transformative properties of pilates. Combining both standing and mat pilates sessions it’s easy to follow and seemingly low-impact. But don’t be fooled – you will sweat, big time. Pilates is all about using your core strength to lose weight and build muscle. Be prepared to do a lot of lunges and squats, balancing techniques and abdominal crunches. Proper breathing, posture and body alignment are key and there are definitely some aspects of the workout routine that overlap with yoga, which I really enjoy. If you want to try something new to burn the bulge in time to fit into your New Year’s dress then go to www.amazon.com and order yours for QR 30 plus shipping.

Srimani Almandarin This juice shop is one of the best places in Doha to hang out with friends any time of the day. It’s popular for its freshly-squeezed smoothies and is open for 24 hours. It’s a clean and elegant space with a friendly staff to serve you. My favourite concoction is their signature namesake recipe called Almandarin, with chunks of fruit and fruit extracts topped with vanilla ice cream, honey and nuts. There are many locations around the city but we go to the one near our offices by Jarir Bookstore on Salwa Road.

Lanie Di Palomo Lotion This body lotion with white grape and aloe extracts is the perfect holiday gift for your friends. Rich and indulgent its natural properties are known for toning and moisturizing, nourishing the skin to make it smooth and soft. Plus the fragrance is fresh and not overwhelming at all! Visit Natural Touch on the first floor of Ezdan Mall. They have an array of beauty products and home fragrances as well. Retail price for a 250ml bottle is QR 49.

Marlynne Chet Wanderlust They say travelling is the best remedy for any negative feeling, and I want to see Europe – especially Paris and Italy where I can proudly wear my trench coat and knee-high boots. I am longing to explore the places of the world and enjoy the feeling of seeing something new. For 2014 I’m hoping for opportunities where it will be easy for that wish to come true.

Bobbi Brown Compact Do you want to wear make-up without looking overdone? The latest from Bobbi Brown cosmetics is all about looking natural and not cakey. Its Compact Finish Foundation will do the trick; fine powders will absorb excess oil and provide a lightweight feel while powerful anti-oxidants and Vitamins C and E help prevent future damage to the skin. The outcome? Your face looks fresh and polished wherever you go. Available at 4U City Center and Royal Plaza for around QR 232.

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Bilal Penthouses dec. 2013.pdf

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Nestled serenely on the 19th and 20th floors, overlooking the azure sea and surrounding landscape, these magnificent penthouses provide their residents with a true haven. Each one is a tranquil, elegant setting for living and relaxing, ideal for romantic evenings and business entertaining alike. Here you will feel connected with the environment around you. The penthouses at Bilal Pearl Suites are in two exclusive options: Duplex Penthouse (4 bedrooms) Penthouse (2bedrooms)

CMY

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QH Sensations

The Comforts Of H o m e By Ashlee Starratt Photography by Jessie Palanca Additional images courtesy of The Grand Hyatt Doha

For the female business traveler, it’s the little things that matter. The Grand Hyatt Doha has done their research with their new Women’s Experience Package tailor-made for a feminine clientele. QH settles in for the night to test drive the difference.

much greenery and vegetation for a change and the Hyatt has a lot of it, which I’m thankful for as it makes sitting out on the sun lounger with a book and a cocktail all the more enticing.

So when I check in to The Grand Hyatt Doha for a quick overnight visit I’m eager to discover the little things that will set my stay apart from others. The room is spacious with a massive balcony and a view looking out over the gardens to the beach and the water. It’s nice to see so

After a quick sweep of the room I’m already noticing a few stark differences. First of all the room itself is less cluttered with fewer throw pillows dotting the bed and furniture – something that Hyatt discovered during their customer experience focus groups is that female travelers prefer to have less ‘stuff’ occupying their personal space. They also found out that women who are travelling alone prefer to have rooms located on a higher floor rather than at ground level, because they feel safer that way. I’m on the fourth floor and I also notice that my room is conveniently adjacent to the emergency exit – an added bonus that was anything but accidental.

s a working female professional, I’ve had the chance to do a lot of traveling for my job this past year and a half and it’s the extra touches that make or break your average hotel stay. Those thoughtful details that elevate it from just a place to flop for the night, to somewhere that you can luxuriate for 24 hours. I know that sometimes we can be picky and our needs vary greatly from those of our male counterparts, but it’s that added attention to detail that goes a long way to providing a comfortable stay, a pleasant ambiance and making us feel at home.

As I settle in to the room I’m told that the Hyatt offers a range of items and amenities available for borrowing or even to purchase through their Hyatt Has It program. Things like a cell phone charger, curling iron, steamer, yoga mat, makeup remover and disposable razors all make a lady’s stay more comfortable and convenient. Normally I’m prone to forgetting my phone charger, but luckily this time I’ve got all the items on my usual over-night checklist, although it’s nice to know that a replacement is just a phone call away in case I did forget something at home. It’s not long before I get ready to head down to meet a friend for dinner at Rocca, the Hyatt’s poolside Mediterranean restaurant. With a re-vamped menu it’s recently gone through an overhaul in the décor too, giving it a slightly less casual and more refined feel. Gone are the white sofas and banquette seating; in their place are cozy café tables with straight-backed chairs. New Executive Chef Jean-Christophe Fieschi has conceptualized a new menu that solidifies Rocca’s identity with some truly exceptional Mediterranean cuisine.

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We totally did a nose-dive onto the ultra-plush bed! One of the perks of the Hyatt? A luxe view no matter what room you're in

We start with an earthy mushroom soup and a Chef’s green salad with roasted artichokes that’s not on the menu. The soup is lovely – smoky and laced with truffle oil; I only wish it was slightly creamier but it doesn’t detract from my enjoyment of it at all. We move on to share the Barolo risotto with braised beef cheek and it’s sumptuous. The rich complexity of the flavour combinations is a winner, and the tender beef melts in our mouth while the Arborio rice is full-bodied and rustic – yum! For our mains my companion has the sea bass on a bed of root vegetables while I try, for the second time, Rocca’s signature veal ossobuco with truffled polenta. This is a truly lovely dish – the veal is succulent and the marrow from the bone adding even more depth to the polenta. I would take polenta over mashed potatoes any day and this one is top-notch, with an added kick of Gorgonzola cheese throughout. I cap off the night in Dunes with some good friends and great tunes from Australian duo Natalie and Chass of LoveLight. It’s quite late when I get back to my room and I instinctively pick up the room service menu, although I barely have space for anything else after our meal in Rocca. With the Women’s Experience Package even the room service menus are different, offering smaller-portioned, calorieconscious options for female travelers who want to maintain a healthy, balanced diet while in transit. Knowing that I’ll be having a nice

The breakfast buffet at The Grill is fresh, filling and fantastic

breakfast at The Grill in the morning I peruse the menu, but don’t touch. After a great night’s sleep – I’ve often wondered how hotels get their mattresses, pillows and bedding so plush, I hop in the spacious shower and get ready for a spot of brekkie. The bath products in my room at the Hyatt are lush – all June Jacobs brand with green tea and essential oils that leave your hair and skin feeling silky and fresh. Breakfast at The Grill is included in the package and it’s a healthy buffet with lots of juicy fresh fruit, yogurts, eggs, cereals and a few hot stations serving sausages, beef bacon, roast turkey ham and steamed vegetables. My favourite sweet indulgence is their waffle station; I highly recommend trying their chocolate batter with fresh berries, topped with a drizzle of strawberry and vanilla sauce. For the rest of the afternoon I make use of the Hyatt’s amenities, lounging by the beach and the

pool and basking in the sunshine. By the time I check out I feel like I’ve been well taken care of to say the least; less of a faceless guest in a numbered room, but someone who’s needs and concerns have been addressed and taken care of. The best part is that you don’t have to request the Women’s Experience Package when staying with Hyatt; as soon as you make a reservation and they see that you are female all those little extra perks automatically kick in. So ladies, feel free to luxuriate – they’ve got you covered. n The Grand Hyatt Doha Location: West Bay Lagoon Room Rate: QR 1,000 per night (subject to change due to seasonal rates) Extras: WiFi available, breakfast included Reservations: 4448-1234 or www.doha.grand.hyatt.com

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QH Sensations

A Royal Retreat By Ashlee Starratt & Jorge Granda Photography by Jessie Palanca

Tucked away in a secluded corner of the Holiday Villa Hotel compound, Amoaras Relaxation Spa is a quaint escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. A place where you can relax and indulge in some sensational treatments fit for a king – or queen!

ood things come in small packages, and Amoaras Relaxation Spa is no exception. Its small, cozy foyer is colourful, homey and inviting – a nice change from the sometimes overwhelming glitz and glamour of other locales. We’re greeted by a smiling staff member behind the desk, Widi, who will also be my therapist for my spa session. She seats us prior to starting our

treatments and gives us some warming ginger tea and a hot towel to wash the toils of the day from our hands and face. There’s a display case full of the latest Dr. Renaud products from France and a line-up of glistening jars filled with a range of different massage oils. I select the most fragrant – the jasmine, and Widi escorts me through the serene interior of the spa where I’ll get to indulge in not one, but two of their special signature treatments.

legs, arms, back and chest before beginning the scrub. Let me tell you – this takes a lot of manpower! She applies a lot of pressure to the long scrubbing motions that I wonder if I’m going to have any skin left by the time it’s over. But let me tell you – the end result is that my skin is glowing and pink and softer than it’s ever been. I hop into the rain shower for a quick rinse to rid my pores of any remaining granules from the scrub, before settling in for the Balinese massage.

Peach Exfoliating Body Scrub & Balinese Massage

I tell Widi that I prefer the pressure to be more of a light to medium touch and she loads up on the jasmine oil and gets started. The Balinese style of massage is very different from others I’ve had before. It reminds me of what a Swedish or Thai massage would be like and is quite a workout – both for Widi and myself. She uses long, firm movements up and down my back and limbs, punctuated by small suction-like claps that she does with her hands across my body, coupled with a pounding technique that sounds intimidating but feels amazing. This is complemented with

The treatment room is tranquil and complete with all amenities. There’s a full soaker bathtub, massage table, sink and dressing area and a lush rain shower. Lit candles adorn the room to set the ambiance and there are beautiful flower petals scattered all around. Widi, who hails from Bali, has me first lay face-up on the massage table for a 30-minute full-body scrub using Dr. Renaud’s Peach Exfoliating product. It smells lush and is cool against my skin. Widi lets it absorb into my

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The herbal campur campur packets provide a hot burst of holistic energy

Revel in the afterglow of Amoaras post-treatment relaxation room where guests can enjoy a hot cup of ginger tea

quite a bit of stretching of the legs, feet, knees and wrists, so any lingering knots or tension is quickly and efficiently worked out. Widi saves the best for last with a neck, face and scalp massage that nearly put me right to sleep – if you’ve never had your earlobes massaged, you’re in for a mindblowing experience. At the end of the treatment session I feel loosey-goosey and ready for a nap. But there are certain small things I notice – the pulsing start of a headache at the base of my neck that has plagued me throughout the day is gone, and my lower back – usually tight and tense from stress and sitting at a desk is now limber and relaxed. I would certainly book a second treatment from Amoaras after this. The quality of the experience, plus their extremely reasonable prices make it a spot-on destination for relaxation.

Campur Campur Massage & Foot Reflexology This particular treatment is very different from any other I’ve had so far. The massage started off with the therapist spraying some aromatic

scents near my face to enhance the overall experience, making me feel calmer and more relaxed, massaging my entire body with silky oil. Up to this point there was nothing different about the treatment. It was just like any other regular massage -- that is until he rubbed hot herbs wrapped in a cotton cloth against my legs. A holistic treatment called campur campur, I was uncomfortable at first due to the fact that it was a technique that was new to me and I wasn’t ready for it. I felt that my legs were being burned with some sort of hot stones. But after the first few flowing movements it felt nice and warm and became quite enjoyable as he continued to work on the rest of my limbs and torso. I did, however, ask my masseur not to place the pouches of wrapped herbs on my body when they’re still very hot. Overall it’s a very unique and different experience. For those who like being massaged with hot stones or bamboo I would highly recommend the campur campur. This treatment is meant to relax muscles and relieve

stress while improving blood circulation. After the one hour massage I was further pampered with a 30-minute scalp and foot massage. The technique consists of five finger-point pressure to reflex zones on the feet to improve circulation, ease pain, relax the body and re-establish the flow of energy through the body. In terms of service, comfort and quality of treatment I would go back to Amoaras Spa for another session. n

Amoaras Relaxation Spa Location: Holiday Villa Hotel Timings: 11:00 a.m. till 11:00 p.m. daily Prices: QR 200, 60-min Balinese massage QR 350 90-min exfoliating body scrub QR 300 60-min campur campur massage QR 130, 60-min foot reflexology Contact: 4408-4085 spamgr@holidayvilladoha.com orwww.holidayvilladoha.com

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s nce ngrie stipe ssLi on Ex ati on ns ati ns QH Se QHSe RECOMMENDS

Jean-Louis David & Saray Spa

Daily: Guys or gals enjoy a full-body massage, manicure and pedicure this season for only QR 400. For more information call 4419-6090.

THE DIPLOMATIC CLUB Reflexology Treatment

Daily: Re-balance harmony in the body by cleaning congested reflexes and help boost the immune system to recover from illness, boost circulation, increase energy level and improve mental and emotional processes. It’s very relaxing and creates a feeling of well-being.

Hot Stone Treatment

Daily: Heated black stones are used to massage the whole body, releasing deep-seated tension and relieving stress at the deepest level as well on the body’s energy channel. It’s a holistic and energizing therapy for body, mind and spirit.

Swedish Treatment

SHARQ VILLAGE & SPA Six Senses Spa Experience

Daily: Cleanse and detoxify your body and feel like a new you after experiencing this exclusive package. Refresh & De-Stress: 100 minutes for QR 1,050 This duo of Moroccan hammam and signature massage starts with a ritual cleansing of the entire body using their signature Moroccan black soap and loofah. The hammam ritual is completed on a heated marble bed to purify the body and leave you refreshed. After, you’ll experience one of their signature de-stress treatments, an oil-based, aromatic, medium pressure massage to get rid of all tensions on the entire body. This mini-package is ideal for anyone seeking something quick and effective. For more information call 4425-6999/6995.

DOHA MARRIOTT Sorisa Skinlight

Daily: Revitalize and rejuvenate your skin with Sorisa Skinlight for the effective treatment of wrinkles, pigmentation, hydration and improvement of skin tone and texture. The first of its kind in Doha! Special offer: 15% discount on all Sorisa treatments. For more information call 4429-8520.

LPG Slimming Machine

Daily: Adored by stars all over the world and well-known to the general public, the Cellu M6 Keymodule (the lipo-massage machine) is the new alternative to invasive methods of weight loss treatment. Special Introductory offer: one LPG treatment plus 20% discount on personal training consultation with Adamou. For more reservation call 4429-8520.

THE GRAND HYATT Hot Stone Treatment

Daily: Jaula Spa and Club. Jaula Spa invites you to enjoy the best treatment combining heat with botanical oils as warmth penetrates the body and opens up energy flow, allowing you to escape to total relaxation. Book now and enjoy a 10% discount on the next treatment of 90 minutes. For bookings and inquiries call 4448-1064/1056.

New Year, New Body Countdown

Daily: Jaula Spa and Club. Are you ready for the holidays? Have you gained some extra weight during the summer? Allow our experts to assist you re-shaping your body and get you the best results in no time, to feel different and look different. Book the 12 session program and get free access to the sauna and Jacuzzi plus a 20% discount on any spa treatment from 9:00 a.m. till 1:00 p.m. For bookings and inquiries please call 4448-1064/1056.

HILTON DOHA I Spa

Daily: Eforea Spa.Treat your family and friends this festive season with a special spa gift voucher. Eforea Spa invites you to emerge brighter by choosing your voucher from their large range of unique packages and get 30% discount on body and face products. For more information call 4423-3443.

RENAISSANCE DOHA CITY CENTER Winter Warmer

Daily: Saray Spa. Invest in the spirit of giving. Purchase a gift voucher for a friend and receive 25% off your own treatment. For more information call 4419-6090.

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

THE ST. REGIS DOHA Ortigia Products From Italy

Daily: Remède Spa. Just in time for the festive season Remède Spa at the St Regis Doha is now stocking luxurious Ortigia products from Sicily.Made from indigenous Italian ingredients they have a vast range of amazing scented products from eye masks to room fragrances. From QR 120 to QR 220 The spa opens from 10:00 a.m. till 10:00 p.m. For more information call 4446-0300 or email Remedespa.Doha@stregis.com

W DOHA Bliss Spa

Daily: Receive a complimentary hot paraffin pack when you book the 75-minute Triple Oxygen Facial at QR 750 for arms, feet, or back. Enjoy 20% off all hour-long Hydra Facials for QR 2,000 for December including a complimentary Hot Cream Manicure. Book the 75-minute Fabulous Foot Patrol for QR 330 and receive the Callus Conqueror to reveal baby soft soles. For more information call 4453-5555/4453-5554 or email bliss.doha@whotels.com.

WYNDHAM GRAND REGENCY ‘Top To Toe’ Package

Daily: Angsana Spa. Enjoy a ‘Top to Toe’ package for QR 850, down from the regular price of QR 1,150.Give your body a well-deserved tune-up with this ultimate treatment that combines all of Angsana Spa’s signature therapies. Package includes a 30-minute body scrub, 50-minute body conditioner, 60-minute body massage, 60-minute facial, 10-minute steam and jacuzzi. Promotion is valid until December 31, 2013. For more information call 4434-3152/3153.

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om Pr ialns sion onot Sp ati QHecSe

Super Aqua Original Source Treatment: Brighten up the festive season with true radiance

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he perfect holiday indulgence is here. The Super Aqua Original Source Treatment at Guerlain, Alfardan Spa is for the discerning, who wants to enjoy precious metime in a blissful setting for the perfect outcome – a fresh and radiant you. The Guerlain, Alfardan Spa experience is designed for total comfort and rejuvenation. Its level of personalization is unmatched, right from the exquisite, custom-built treatment rooms to the exclusive range of Guerlain products and techniques. A dedicated Guerlain Beauty Coach performs a systematic skincare analysis and utilizes patented methods and protocols such as the Guerlain face massage technique created in 1939 when Guerlain Institute, 68 Champs Elysées, was inaugurated in Paris. Face and body treatment: A new expression of Guerlain know-how Super Aqua Original Source Treatment: 1 hour 30 minutes The treatment is essentially a ‘hydration boost’ to treat the signs of dehydration such as dry, dull skin with wrinkles or fine lines. It utilizes Super Aqua-Serum, an innovative anti-wrinkle and hydration formulation. Composed of Aqua Complex, an exclusive new blend of active ingredients, Super Aqua-Serum has the ability

to act simultaneously on the quantity and quality of the water in the skin to re-launch its natural hydration flows and restores youthfulness. The Super Aqua-Serum works on three different levels. Firstly, it stimulates the production of clusterin, a natural water-purifying agent in the skin. Secondly, it preserves the skin’s impermeability for enhanced anti-aging action and lastly, increases the water reserves by stimulating hyaluronic acid binding. The treatment will leave skin completely rehydrated, wrinkles are filled in and complexion improved. A deep-hydration body ritual using nourishing Super Aqua Body Serum, is followed by a full-body relaxing massage. At the end of the session you feel fresh and your skin is visibly more radiant and re-plumped. The Guerlain, Alfardan Spa serves as a personal getaway for Doha’s residents who are looking to unwind. Strategically located in Alfardan Tower in the West Bay area, it offers a customized spa experience with tailored treatments to suit each client’s needs and expectations. n Guerlain, Alfardan Spa at Alfardan Towers, 39th floor, Tel: +974 4420-8660

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

Hogmanay Dec 31: Scotland

This is the party to end all New Year’s parties, as the whole of bonnie Scotland kicks up their heels to ring in 2014. With roots in the Gaelic language, it’s thought that ‘hogmanay’ translates roughly to ‘new morning’. The Scottish capital of Edinburgh has the biggest bash with a massive torchlight procession as revelers light the New Year’s bonfire and tap their toes in a traditional ‘ceilidh’ dance. Then as the clock counts down it’s a free-for-all until the last refrains of Auld Lang Syne ring out over the city. Visit www.edinburghshogmanay.org to send off 2013 in style.

Budapest Christmas Fair Dec 1-31: Hungary

Nothing quite says the holidays like a European Christmas market and Budapest has one of the best. Wander through the festive alleyways and pick up traditional handcrafted items such as wroughtiron candle-holders or woolly woven hats and gloves. Enjoy the Christmas lights, music and jolly ambiance with over 100 vendors hawking their wares at the stalls throughout the central square. There’s no excuse not to find the perfect present for that special someone! Visit www.budapestinfo.hu and start making your shopping list!

GeoParadise New Year Festival Dec 31: Costa Rica

Unleash your inner hippy and celebrate Mother Nature and the environment this New Year’s Eve. At GeoParadise you can forgo the traditional high heels and sparklers for tree-planting and a tribal gathering. Upon arrival at the Drakes Bay rainforest retreat you will receive three small tree saplings for planting at midnight, with the premise being to ‘Leave A Positive Trace’ as their motto says. This is followed by a jungle dance party with DJs and two festival stages, plus a GeoHaven area for wellness conferencing. Visit www.geoparadise.org and get back to nature.

Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Lighting

Dubai International Film Festival Dec 6-14: UAE

Tinseltown comes to the desert as the Dubai International Film Festival kicks off the region’s most prestigious cinema celebration. Top Hollywood stars from Tom Cruise, Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie to Richard Gere have all graced the red carpet in recent years. From film screenings to the massively popular Dubai Film Market the festival showcases the best of what’s on offer from regional Arab filmmakers as well as the Hollywood big-shots. Find out who will be the talk of the town at this year’s fest by visiting www.dubaifilmfest.com.

Dec 4: USA

If you’re lucky enough to be in the Big Apple this holiday season grab a hot cup of cocoa and get yourself down to 30 Rock for their annual Christmas tree lighting. A New York City holiday icon, the tree is one of the largest hardwoods on display and tens of thousands of spectators will crowd the sidewalks to witness the main event, while millions more will watch it broadcast live across the nation. Pack your skates for quick spin around the rink afterwards and visit www.rockefellercenter.com for more info.

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Upbeat Berlin

QH Sensations

By Amy Bassett

We explore how Berlin’s legacy as a hub for all things bohemian has made this capital city the beating heart of Germany’s arts and culture scene.

think twice about taking her home to meet your mother. Yet amongst the cafés, markets and galleries, museums, nightclubs and lounges, there’s an undeniable allure to the place.

The slogan fits. To the untrained eye, Berlin could be considered a touch grimy - you might

This is where the creative come to flourish; artists and muses from across the world take advantage of low rent, living costs and a generous visa and arts funding program to soak up the ambiance of a city where everyone is reborn. No matter your achievements at home, you’ll have to hustle harder in Berlin to find your foothold – nobody trades on reputation here, nor do they boast; shameless self-promotion is best

ou’d be forgiven for thinking you had time travelled back to 1980s Lower East Side New York, while taking a stroll through Kreuzberg. This neighbourhood, like many others in Berlin, is dripping in street art, street food, street urchins and street culture and seems to epitomize the personality of the German capital. ‘Poor but sexy’ is the city’s unofficial slogan – you’ll often hear it thrown around by many travelers who’ve made their way through the swag of what Berlin has to offer.

A reclaimed hangar becomes a hub for local merchants at Tempelhof Airport in the city centre

left elsewhere. This is the home of true counter-culture. Super-hip, laidback and cool, Berlin is a place where your art – and your art only - is your calling card. A bike ride alongside the River Spree or one of the canals reveals biergartens, eateries and street-food shacks galore to keep you sustained on art gallery and museum missions – of these

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The River Spree meanders through the heart

of modern Berlin

the most you’ll pay for entry to see world-class DJs and a standard drink will set you back a measly 4 or 5 Euro. For the audiophiles, the Function One sound system alone is worth a visit. It’s no wonder people often saunter out of this place in a mildly bewildered state!

Berlin's street art adds a colourful edge to the grit of the urban inner city

there are plenty. More than 180 museums, 400 independent art spaces and a handful of gallery districts serve this city of 3.5 million and its visitors. You are certain to find something of your fancy. All of this creativity gives the city a fantastically youthful vibe and is perhaps the reason Berlin is the ‘Toast of Techno’, attracting many visitors purely for the nightlife. Hundreds of weekend warriors queue for hours to get a taste of Berghain, the iconic powerstation-cum-nightclub that draws dancers in on Friday night and fires them out days later. Although the bouncers may be gruff and entry can prove elusive for some, (tip: Berlin dresses down!), Berghains’ management remain true to their patronage by keeping their prices as low and dirty as their infamous basement. 12 Euro is

If stamina is not your strong point or you have a schedule to stick to, there are a multitude of lounges, clubs and watering holes (mentionables: Club Der Visionaere; Chalet; Bar 3; Luzia) that won’t throw you so far off the tracks. A bite and a beverage in Berlin won’t break the bank and the quality and variety of food is fantastic! Take a wander down the vibing sidewalk of foodie ‘hood Oranienstrasse and sample the wares – you won’t be disappointed. If your yearning is for wide-open spaces, head for one of the more unusual outdoor spaces you’re likely to encounter. Tempelhof Airport, the site of the famous Berlin Airlift, ceased service in 2008 and was opened as a public space, used for fairs, festivals and sports events since. Sitting quietly (and vastly) in the central district of Tempelhof-Schoneberg, the airport, right in the middle of the city, is a unique place to soak up some of Berlin’s long and storied history. Take a stroll around the grounds or burn across the tarmac on your bike – just make sure you check the place out!

Visit Berlin in the fall and you’ll enjoy the changing of the leaves, from green to gold to gone, trees of the deciduous nature upstage the graffiti for at least a couple of weeks. In summer, the sound of ‘open airs’, portable karaoke systems, echo through the many parks of the city as Berliners soak up the sunshine in true park-life style. If you’re planning a trip to Berlin, take a camera, durable dancing shoes and brush up on your bicycle skills! You’ll need all three (and some serious party-fitness) to get the most out of the place! n Berlin At A Glance Flights: QR 3,275 return trip (subject to variation) Must-See: The East Side Gallery (Berlin Wall); Templehof Airport; The Brandenburg Gate. Accommodation: The ‘airbnb’ force is strong in Berlin. Have a dig and you’ll definitely find a bargain. Food & Entertainment: Prices are verrrrrrrry friendly. Berlin Websites: www.360berlin.net www.architectureinberlin.com www.strollology.com

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mends om ends mm coec ReR rg inin Virg Vi the top u o y s g in r b H Q m the staff picks fro Megastore

NAME: Fatma Nasri STORE SECTION: Red Box Department

TIME AT VIRGIN: 9 months

Best Part of My Job:“I like Virgin. I really feel happy here because it’s big and we have different nationalities and they’re like all my friends here. I especially enjoy the Red Box section because we have different items and the majority of people like our products here."

Magic Wallet This is a bestseller for us; everyone likes it because when you put your money in it you will never lose it. You can put your cards and your cash inside and they will stay put. Made of high-quality leather it flips open at both sides, there are no straps or magnets holding everything in place, but a spacious sleeve that locks your money in like magic. You have to see it to believe it! Retail price: QR 169.

IO?ION! Original These watches are popular with some celebrity singers and artists! They’re Italian-made, water-proof and long-lasting coming in many bright, sporty unisex colours. The material they’re made with contains the ionic mineral tourmaline which is supposed to contribute to health and wellness through the production of negative ions, giving a sense of balance and relaxation to the wearer. Retail price: QR 189.

Agama AiBOT Sweet Years T-Shirts This is a portable self-propelling, robotic vacuum cleaner and we carry three sizes: small, medium and large. It’s a product from Thailand and it works alone to clean your floor space, whether you have tile, wood, carpet or linoleum. Retail price: QR 424 (small), QR 749 (medium), QR 1,000 (large).

These are really nice, the material is light and cool and the designs and patterns are funky, fun and playful. We’ve had them in stock for a few months now and they continue to be a popular fashion statement for both men and women. Retail price: QR 149.

Powerball I like this because it’s an exercise tool to strengthen the hands, wrists, shoulders and arms. If you’re always typing at the computer, writing or working with your hands it’s really strengthens your muscles and your dexterity. You have to use it every day for 20 minutes and there are different RPM levels to challenge you. Even some athletes, like tennis stars, use it to improve their grip. Retail price: QR 349.

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Spotlight On Movies

TOP

Cozy up for the holidays with our top five new flicks

n Of Smaug The Hobbit:The Desolatio

The Wolf Of Wall Street Biography | Crime | Drama

Adventure | Drama | Fantasy In the second film installment, Bilbo and Gandalf have successfully escaped the Misty Mountains with the dwarves and Bilbo has gained the One Ring. They all continue their journey to get their gold back from the dragon Smaug as danger and adventure lurk around every corner. Stars: Martin Freeman, Ian McKellan, Richard Armitage QH Fun Fact: Heartthrob Orlando Bloom who plays Legolas is actually two years older than actor Lee Pace who plays Legolas’ father onscreen.

Anchorman 2: The Legend Continues Comedy With the 70s behind him, San Diego’s top-rated newsman, Ron Burgundy, returns to take New York’s first 24-hour news channel by storm. We are so pumped for this sequel we can’t even take the excitement!

Based on the true story of Jordan Belfort from his rise to a wealthy stockbroker living the high life, to his fall involving crime, corruption and the federal government. Stars: Leonardo DiCaprio, Matthew McConaughey, Jonah Hill QH Fun Fact: Leonardo DiCaprio was almost hit by a car on-set during a scene after the handle on the prop briefcase he was carrying broke and he stumbled to grab it.

Grudge Match

Stars: Will Ferrell, Christina Applegate, Paul Rudd

Comedy | Sport

QH Fun Fact: Before filming started the crew discovered that several thousand dollars worth of filming equipment had been stolen from the production warehouse.

A pair of aging boxing rivals are coaxed out of retirement to fight one final bout—30 years after their last match.

The Secret Life Of Walter Mitty Adventure | Comedy | Drama An office worker who lives inside a fantasy world where he gets to live an adventurous life while romancing his co-worker, sets off on a global journey to fix things when both of their jobs are threatened. Stars: Ben Stiller, Kristen Wiig, Adam Scott QH Fun Fact: This is a re-make of a 1947 film starring Danny Kaye, produced by MGM mogul Samuel Goldwyn. And his son, Samuel Jr. is producing this latest version!

Stars: Robert De Niro, Sylvester Stallone, Kim Basinger QH Fun Fact: Sylvester Stallone has said Arnold Schwarzeneggar is one of the most extraordinary people he’s ever met. Why? Because he’s been successful in three “diverse and difficult” areas – body-building , acting and politics.

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QH Sensations

The Dish on Qatar Files courtesy of ABODE Magazine Compiled by Marlynne Mallari - Dela Pe単a Photography by Jessie Palanca Feature Coordinated by Laila Al Asfour

Enjoy a spread of the best traditional Qatari dishes to celebrate this National Day

Decadent al-mathroba, piping hot from the oven

Chef Aisha Al-Tamimi displays a sweet platter of khanfarush

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Renowned Chef Aisha Al Tamimi takes us to her kitchen for a taste of genuine Qatari cuisine. Follow her step-by-step recipes to give your family and friends a traditional taste at home this National Day.

AL-MATHROBA Al-Mathroba is one of the main foods enjoyed in Qatar. Bring out the chef in you as you follow Chef Aisha in preparing this appetizing meal. Ingredients: 1 chicken (about 1300 g) • 3 cups crushed grains • 9-11 cups water • 1 cup minced chard • 3 onions, minced • 1 clove garlic, grated • 1 tsp ginger, grated • 5 large tomatoes, grated • 1 green chili pepper, minced • 1 green paprika, chopped • 4 black lemon pulps • 4 tbsp tomato paste • 1 tsp dill • ½ cup parsley, minced • ½ cup coriander, minced • ¼ cup oil Spices: • 1 tsp each cumin, coriander, red chili powder, cinnamon • ½ tsp each ground cardamom, ground cinnamon, curry powder Method: • Wash the crushed grains and soak in water for a night. • Chop, skin, wash and boil the chicken then remove the foam. Debone the chicken after it has been cooked and keep the chicken stock. • Heat the oil in a bowl, add the minced onion and stir. Add the garlic, ginger, green chili pepper, paprika and the minced chard then stir. • Add and the stir the chicken with the tomato paste, spices, tomato peel, dill and water. Let it cook for three minutes and add the crushed grains. Stir occasionally. • Mix in the parsley and coriander. Sprinkle salt and leave on a quite moderate heat or put in the oven until it is tender. • Before serving whisk well to remove grains and to let chicken mix with the grains.

CHICKEN KABSAH

KHANFARUSH

This is a Middle Eastern dish consisting of rice, chicken, spices and vegetables. Prepare all the ingredients and start cooking!

Sweet tooth, you are not forgotten! Chef Aisha shared her secrets in cooking Khanfarush. This sweet treat is served across the Gulf during special occasions.

Ingredients: 3 cups rice • 1 ½ kilo meat • 4 large fresh tomatoes • 1 paprika • 1 chili green pepper * 3 medium onion, minced • ¼ cup parsley, minced • 1 tbsp dill • 3 black lemons * 5 cardamoms • 5 carnation cloves • 1 stalk cinnamon • ½ cup oil • 6-7 ½ cups water Spices: 1 tsp (spice, cumin, coriander and fennel) • 1 ½ tsp turmeric, ½ tsp cardamom • 1 garlic clove, grated • 1 tsp ginger, grated Stuff Ingredients: 2 onions, sliced • ½ cup almonds, boiled and peeled • ½ cup pinecone * 1 carrot, grated • 3 tbsp raisins Tomato Sauce to drizzle on chicken: 4 tbsp tomato paste • 3 tbsp lemon • ¼ tsp salt • ¼ tsp red pepper • ¼ tsp cardamom, finely ground • 2 tbsp olive oil • 2 tbsp rosewater with threads of saffron Method: • Wash the chicken and cut lengthwise then boil in eight cups of water. Remove the foam. • Cut the tomato, onion, parsley, coriander, dill, ginger and garlic. Add the black lemon, oil, spices and salt. Add the mixture to the chicken and let it boil. • Remove the chicken then add the rice on the boiling water and let it cook. • When the water evaporates, remove from stove and sprinkle the rosewater soaked in saffron. Put in the oven over 150°C for half an hour. Gently stir the rice then return to the oven over 50°C. • Prepare it on the serving plate and sprinkle the stuff and chicken. Stuffing Method: • Fry the onion then add the almonds, pine nuts, grated carrots, raisins, spices and salt.

Method: • Mix eggs and sugar in dough mixer until it doubles in volume. • Sift flour, semolina and baking powder and mix well. • Add saffron and cardamom to rose water and then stir all ingredients with a wooden spoon. • Grease the ma’mul maker with oil and pour a spoonful in every mould. Close the machine for a few minutes.

Tip:

Khanfarush can also be prepared using a frying pan or in small baking tins.

RICE MUHALLABIYYA This is a classic dessert that is easy to do and tastes great. According to Chef Aisha you can add the flavours and colours of your choice! Ingredients: 12 tbsp milk powder • 4 tbsp rice powder • ½ cup sugar • 5-5 ½ cups water • 2 tbsp rose water • saffron threads • pistachio (for garnish) Method: • Combine powder milk, water, rice flour and sugar in a pot and place over heat. Keep stirring until the mixture has thickened. • Pour over rose water mixed with saffron.

• Mix together.

• Remove from water and serve in cups.

Tomato Method: • Mix the previous ingredients and season the meat then put in a pan to fry.

• Decorate with pistachios.

• Pour on the serving plate and sprinkle the butter over the surface and serve. For more information visit: www.aisha-tamimi.com

Ingredients: 6 eggs • 1 cup sugar • 1 cup flour • 1 cup fine semolina • 1 cup oil • 2 ½ tsp baking powder • ¼ cup rose water • ¼ tsp cardamom • a pinch of saffron

Tip:

You can also use other meat such as beef, lamb, or even fish in exchange of chicken.

• Place in fridge to cool.

Tip:

If mixture is too thick, loosen with some water.

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It Happened

Red Bull Flugtag Event MIA Park Nov 1, 2013

Flying high and making a splash, contestants see whoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s flying machine can go the distance

Marriott Global Appreciation Event Courtyard by Marriott Doha City Center Oct 27, 2013 Guests and clients came out in droves for the event which featured live entertainment, great food and some cool prizes too

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Bob Sinclar Live In Doha The Grand Hyatt Oct 31, 2013

Russell Peters Comedy Show The Sheraton Doha, Oct 20, 2013

Photography by Richard Walker. Photos courtesy of iloveqatar.net

Canadian funny man Russell Peters had the audience in stitches the entire time

Bob Sinclar rouses the crowd. Photo credit: Richard Walker & iloveqatar.net

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It Happened

L-R: Chef Stuart Collins of The Anvil Rooms, Chef Gilles Bosquet and Chef Roudy Petersen from The St. Regis Doha

The Anvil Rooms Opening Tornado Tower Oct 29, 2013

Renowned Chef Guy Savoy (seated left at far end of table) and his team from Quisine at the grand opening industry night event

Pakistani Womens' Association President Rahat Mansur (centre) goes behind the decks with some stellar DJs

Desi Bhangra Night Doha Marriott Oct 31, 2013

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Loi Krathong Festival The Grand Hyatt Nov 17, 2013

L-R: Farah Elalfy, Ellen from Marhaba and Grand Hyatt General Manager Christoph Franzen

Qatar Camping Exhibition Doha Exhibition Center Oct 23, 2013

Spanish Ambassador H.E. Carmen De La Pe単a gets a tour of the camping expo with some of its organizers

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It Happened

ASPIRE4SPORT Aspire Dome Nov 16, 2013

Standing at 7’1, American NBA basketball legend Shaquille O’Neal was the keynote speaker at this year’s ASPIRE4SPORT

Photography by Sanjaya Munindradasa

Walk To Beat Diabetes Aspire Park Nov 15, 2013

Centre: Sharoud Mathis, Qatar Diabetes Association Program Director

This year’s event saw more young people taking part to raise awareness and promote a healthy lifestyle

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Qatar International Boat Show Lusail Marina, Nov 12, 2013

Minister of Economy and Commerce, H.E. Sheikh Ahmed bin Jassim bin Mohamed Al Thani gets a tour of the inaugural event

AWA Holiday Bazaar The Grand Hyatt Nov 9, 2013

WOHOM President Bozena Rostek and AWA President Nisreen Kaisi cut the ribbon, kicking off the annual Holiday Bazaar

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It Happened

QATAR Diabetes Association Press Conference W Doha Oct 31, 2013

L-R: Moona Masri-Whitice, QDA President Dr. Abdulla AlHamaq, Dr. Mahmoud Alzoud, Katia Abboud Saba, Head of PR for Oryx GTL, Wahiba Al Saadi, Oryx GTL Health & Hygiene

L-R: David Key, Director of Sales & Marketing for Renaissance Doha City Center, Ziad Abi Abdallah, Project Director for Naycom Qatar, Moona Masri-Whitice, Executive Director of The Art Of Business and Kevin Waller, Managing Director for iloveqatar.net

QDA President Dr. Abdulla Al-Hamaq speaks about their new campaign aimed at supporting young students with diabetes in schools

Awatif Elsayed, QDA Public Relations Officer

Qatar Choice Awards Press Conference Renaissance Doha City Center Nov 12, 2013

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Qatar Airways CEO Akbar Al Baker (left) inaugurates the airlineâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s inclusion in the Oneworld group at a special ceremony

QATAR AIRWAYS ONEWORLD LAUNCH Hamad International Airport Oct 30, 2013

ANNE CURTIS CONCERT QNCC Nov 15, 2013

Filipina superstar Anne Curtis sings her best hits for a sold-out crowd

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Phone Directory Al Gassar Resort 4424-4881 Al Mourjan Restaurants 4483-4423 Bert’s Cafe` 4495-3876 Biella 4467-7731 Crowne Plaza The Business Park 4408-7582 Doha Marriott Hotel 4429-8888 Four Seasons 4494-8888 Grand Heritage Doha Hotel and Spa 4445 5555 Grand Hyatt 4448-1234 Holiday Villa 4408-4220 4423-3333 Hilton Doha InterContinental 4484-4444 InterContinental Doha The City 4015-8888 Johnny Rockets Al Emadi Complex 4455 2792 Hyatt Plaza 4460 4210 Kempinski Residences & Suites 4405-3333 La Cigale 4428 8888 Mövenpick Hotel 4429-1111 Mövenpick Tower & Suites 4496-6115 Nando’s Delivery Hotline 4436-0606 4402-3333 Oryx Rotana Radisson Blu 4428-1555 Red Velvet 4408 0700 Renaissance Doha City Center 4419-5000 Sharq Village & Spa 4425-6666 Sealine Beach Resort 4476-5299 Sheraton Doha 4485-4444 St. Regis Doha 4446-0000 The Diplomatic Club 4484-7444 4484-8000 The Ritz-Carlton W Doha Hotel & Residences 4453-5021 Wyndham Grand Regency 4434-3333

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

Ahmed Hassan Bilal Group

Health / Beauty

Hotels / Restaurants

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

Hospitals/Emergency

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

4493-4433 4483-0989

4453-5555 Bliss Bottega Verde 4483-4535 Dados Beauty Salon 4498-0033 Diva Lounge 4431-8488 Diplomatic Spa 4484-7412 Doha Dental 4431-7766 4429-8520 Doha Marriott Spa Ebn Sina Medical 800-2288 Foot Care Centre Lulu Gharafa 4478-0510 The Center 4436-6275 City Center 4493-0394 Four Seasons Spa 4494-8801 4494-8844 Frank Provost Glow American Salon, Salwa Rd. 4468-9945 West Bay 4411-7652 GoodLife Chemist City Center 4483-9100 The Pearl 4495-3876 Guerlain Alfardan Spa 4420-8660 Habibs Hair and Beauty Salon 4413-0672 4428-8888 La Cigale - Ozone Spa Medical Spa Villaggio 4451-7590 Patrice Salon 4485-4012 4484-8173 Ritz-Carlton Spa 4419-5517 Saray Spa 4425-6999 Six Senses Spa 4408-4083 Snips Salonon

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

Ambulance, Police & Fire Department Doha Clinic Hospital

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

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

4438-4333

Emergency Hotline 4435-5999

Pediatric Emergency

4439-2948

Al Ahli Hospital

4489-8000

Qatar Foundation for Child &

Hamad General Hospital

4439-2222

Woman Protection Hotline 4466-6671 / 72

Rumailah Hospital

4439-3333

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

4427-8416

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

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

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

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

4496-6000 4483-8812 4496-2000 4493-4205 4402-1702 4408-2334 4465-7945 4484-0888 4467-5681 4483-1585 6622-1552 4493-4426 4483-8880

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

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