Qatar Happening - February 2016 by Qatar Happening

Table of Contents

pg 52 Discover America – USA Week Qatar 2016

February 2016 EVERY ISSUE 9 10

Editor-In-Chief's Letter

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

Top Picks

Tiësto Does Doha

A Literary Legacy

Where The Sea Meets Sound

Jazz Is Doha

Arts & Culture Listings

The best of our monthly social media,

The QH Grab-Bag

Our monthly prize corner for your chance to win

110 It Happened

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

The Grammy-winning Dutch DJ lands at the Sheraton Doha for a party you don't want to miss!

Café del Mar brings its soulful sounds to the Doha Marriott in the coolest lounge party of the season

116 Phone Directory

Need-to-know phone numbers

ARTS & CULTURE

QH Speaks

plus the Hit-Or-Miss List

ENTERTAINMENT

Well 'Hello' Adele...

We talk record-breaking releases, motherhood and maturing musically with the talented songstress

Virgin Recommends

We brush up on our sonnets and soliloquies with the British Council Qatar's Shakespeare Lives cultural initiative Pianist Richard Johnson talks music with a message and educating the next generation of musicians as part of his new role as Jazz at Lincoln Center Doha's Global Ambassador Find out everything that’s going on this month

The best monthly entertainment picks from the Megastore

Spotlight On Movies

Entertainment Listings

Our top five must-see films of the month

Find out everything that’s going on this month

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CHECK OUT www.qatarhappening.com for the latest information

Table of Contents COMMUNITY 47

Top Picks

America's Ambassador

Star-Spangled Doha

Tradition Takes Flight

The Game-Changers

Community Listings

Our exclusive interview with U.S. Ambassador to Qatar H.E. Dana Shell Smith The second annual Discover America –USA Week Qatar kicks off this month and we've got the full line-up of events! We head to the desert for the Al Galayel Championship of Hunting

pg 16

How one local IT think-tank is turning out some of the country's most imaginative video games for children

Mega-DJ Tiësto Live At The Sheraton Doha

Find out everything that’s going on this month

FOOD & DINING

SPORTS

QH SENSATIONS

Top Picks

101 Top Picks

Honestly Healthy

Celebration Of Sport

102 It's In The Genes

An Elemental Appetite

Run Like The Wind

104 Hawaii – A Kaleidoscope Of Colour

We take a satisfying bite out of Doha's newest health-food concept, Crunch Cantina, The Four Seasons meets the four Elements at their refreshed all-day dining restaurant

Seafood, Eat It

We cast our line at the W Doha with Spice Market's tasty new Hook & Catch menu

Be Our Valentine

Treat your sweetheart right with our romantic round-up of five-star dinners that will show him/her just how much you care!

Our guide to planning your fitnessfuelled route for Qatar National Sport Day 2016 We're on our marks at Losail International Circuit for the annual Dolphin Energy Doha Dash

Live To Eat, Or Eat To Live

You are what you eat has never been more true as the experts at EVOLVE – Mind/Body/Soul walk us through their new Foodology fitness program

Sports Listings

Find out everything that’s going on this month

Food & Dining Listings

Find out everything that’s going on this month

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

Call Details: Inquiries: Marketing: Fax:

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

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

We explore what your DNA is really trying to tell you with B/Attitude Doha's new D/CODE wellness program

Leave your cares behind and head to the Big Island for a retreat to Maui unlike any other...

106 The Wild, Wild West

We trek through the Badlands of America's South Dakota state to explore the rugged heartland of the West

108 The Dish On Qatar

To get you pumped for Qatar National Sport Day this February 9, we've put together our highlight reel of must-see, must-do events for the whole family!

From The Desk Of The Editor-In-Chief

Dear friends, As February rolls around once more, we’re marking its arrival with an outstandingly full edition. Not just because we have one extra day this month thanks to the 2016 Leap Year, but because we’ve pulled out every stop to bring you the most in-depth line-up of events in celebration of Qatar National Sport Day on February 9. Qatar is one of only a handful of nations worldwide that devotes a national public holiday in support of fitness, health and wellness. As someone who values and upholds the ideals of cooperation and sportsmanship that come from team athletics, plus the benefits of a healthy lifestyle that fitness affords us, Qatar National Sport Day is a source of great pride for me, my family, and all of us at Qatar Happening. Therefore we’ve done our utmost to bring you full details on the scope of activities taking place across Doha and its outlying communities throughout National Sport Day 2016. From a family Fun Run at Aspire Zone, the Doha Dash at Losail, to Qatar Olympic Committee events happening at the Sports Village on The Corniche, there are more ways than imaginable to rediscover your city and your vitality on this healthful occasion. Our Arts & Culture pages this month are also rich with stories of the musicians, artists and playwrights who are shaping our cultural identity here at home. Qatar Happening was fortunate to conduct an exclusive interview with the Director of the British Council Qatar, Frank Fitzpatrick, to learn more about their Shakespeare Lives 2016 cultural program, which aims to bring the timeless works of the world’s most prolific dramatist to new audiences in Doha. Then, QH had the remarkable opportunity to go one-on-one in our Community section with U.S. Ambassador to the State of Qatar, H.E. Dana Shell Smith to learn more about the important cultural and business relationships between the U.S. and Qatar ahead of the second annual Discover America – USA Week Qatar event taking place from February 15-22. In our Food & Dining section, February marks a milestone for all of us at AHB Group as our very own unique juice bar and healthy eatery, Crunch Cantina, is now open at The Pearl-Qatar’s Novo Cinema. An original concept for movie-goers, Crunch offers patrons an alternative to sugary, salty theatre snacks with its array of freshly-blended smoothies, organic ingredients, colourfully crisp salads and sumptuous, rustic sandwiches. We bring your our full review on page 70, so we hope you’ll bring your appetites. There’s much more of interest waiting to be discovered in our pages this month and it is my hope that this February Leap Year will also mark the moment when you take your own leap ahead – on the road to optimal health and a foot forward towards fitness. Thank you for making us a part of your lives,

On The Cover?

Mega-DJ Tiësto will rock Doha on February 25 by Photo Credit: Conceptualized Lindsey Steenkamp

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 Editorial Director: Ashlee Starratt Editor: Ashlee Starratt Art Director / Production Manager: Lindsey Steenkamp Lead Designer / Brand Manager: Zahi Srour Photographer: Jessie Palanca Sales & Communications Manager: Jorge Granda Sales & Marketing Manager: Marisela Paesano Web Coordinator: Imran Khan Interns: Fathima Faaiza Feroz, Abigail Villarroel Administrative & Marketing Coordinator: Mirasol Vinculado Distribution & Accounts: Lanie Fillo-Pana Contributors: Shahmim Akram, Sarah Al Motairi,

Jacqueline Bodnar, Alistair Crighton, Francesca Cruz, Diana Farid, Jan Janssen – Viva Press, Nadir Khamis, Rabi’ah M., Lynsey Riach, Rubina Singh, Dr. Steffen Sommer, Laura Wrede

QATAR HAPPENING (QH) is published 12 times a year by The Art of Business, Doha, Qatar, an associate of Ahmed Hassan Bilal Group. The information contained in QATAR HAPPENING (QH) is correct at the time of printing. Details may change at any time without liability on the part of The Art of Business. Readers are advised to confirm details with the event organizers. All rights reserved 2011, The Art of Business. Reproduction in part or in full is strictly prohibited. QATAR HAPPENING (QH) assumes no responsibility for content of advertisements.

Nasser Ahmed Hassan Bilal

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

Printed by Aspire Printing Press - 2016 9

SPEAKS

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

The Hit-Or-Miss List

The Force Amazes Okay, okay, we know you’ve all been to see it already, but we have to give major props to J.J. Abrams’ directorial vision for the new Star Wars Episode VII – The Force Awakens. The much-awaited new installment in George Lucas’ epic opus definitely lived up to the boxoffice hype. Don’t worry – we’re not giving away any spoilers! But how cool was it to see the original cast of Han Solo, Princess Leia and Luke Skywalker pass the light-sabre on to the next generation of Jedi? May the Force be with us all.

Big-Budget Bang Is anyone else’s wallet still recovering after New Year’s in Doha? With so many glamourous bashes to choose from, it’s as though each hotel did their best to outdo the other. This was also the case in terms of ticket prices, which ranged from fairly costly, to drop-dead extortionate. But I guess when the merriment is flowing and the clock’s about to chime midnight, the thought of how you’re going to stretch it for the rest of the month doesn’t really come into play. Overrated money-grab? One hundred per cent.

ebruary is one of those months that can feel like a blip on the radar – blink and you’ll miss it. It’s shorter than its 11 other cohorts (though this year we get one whole extra day!) but, as this issue can vouch, that doesn’t mean it has anything less to offer!

First on the docket is Qatar National Sport Day on February 9. If it’s a push you need to make good on those New Year’s fitness resolutions there’s no better day than this to put them into practice. (Well, okay, except maybe everyday…) From morning, noon and night all of Doha will be working up a sweat with a host of healthy activities taking place from The Corniche to Aspire Zone, and Lusail to Al Wakra. Flip to our Sports pages for a sneak peek at the line-up. But first, skip over to Entertainment as we go behind the mic with the golden-voiced Adele, whose latest album 25 is topping the charts worldwide alongside its debut single ‘Hello’. We talk song-writing, fame, and motherhood with the 27-year-old starlet. Plus, we take you inside the hottest concert of the month as the oneand-only Tiësto returns to Doha to headline the Global DJs 10th anniversary celebrations at the Sheraton Doha. In Community for February, we’re offering our readers a rare glimpse into one of Qatar’s most revered cultural traditions – falconry – at the Al Galayel Championship of Hunting, taking place this month near Bu Samra. Practiced across civilizations as part of their hunting heritage, the Bedouin custom of using birds of prey to stalk and take down game remains an essential part of the Arab culture. So join us as we take you out into the wilderness!

Let Us Entertain You QH was lucky to snag an invite to The Entertainer Qatar’s 2016 launch, held recently at the Doha Marriott. If you haven’t grabbed your hard copy or downloaded their trusty app, then you’d better get a move-on to make the most of the deals, savings and special offers. New merchants that we love in this year’s coupon catalogue? How about Spice Market, Trader Vic’s, Nando’s and Aqua Park for starters? The next outing’s on us!

I’m only scratching the surface of the February issue here, as we rub shoulders with some of the city's top visionary entrepreneurs in the world of gaming, peer into the science of our genetic make-up with B/Attitude Doha's new D/CODE wellness program and tempt our palates at the newly-opened Elements restaurant at The Four Seasons. I hope you enjoy every page! See you next month,

Ashlee Starratt Editor

Red Light, Don’t Pass Go!

Top Of The Twitter-Verse @RobinSharma

e, and gorgeous at the end.

All change is hard at first, messy in the middl

When Qatar’s Traffic Department made the announcement last month that the new traffic violation laws were now in effect, we sent up a not-so-silent cheer. With more vehicles clogging our city’s arteries and speed and reckless driving a persistent problem, now more than ever does the public need tougher laws in its corner for motorists. With fines doubling for infractions like overtaking on the right and more points stricken from your license for speeding, we hope it’s enough of a deterrent that drivers will shift mindsets – and gears.

Their pool deck is so lush you'll almost forget you're in Doha!

This month’s QH GrabBag is all about new experiences as we give away a spa treatment and brunch at the newly-opened Shangri-La Hotel Doha. The lucky winner, along with a friend, will get to indulge in a relaxing treatment at CHI, The Spa, then dive into Qatar's first adults-only brunch at Yabby restaurant, feasting on a variety of mouthwatering seafood specialties. To participate head over to the Qatar Happening Facebook page where the winner will be selected on February 12. Chef de Cuisine Delvid Palvo shucks oysters at Yabby

Images courtesy of the Shangri-La Hotel Doha

About CHI, The Spa

The ancient Chinese believed in five elements: wood, fire, earth, metal and water. It was thought that chi, the universal life force that governs wellbeing and personal vitality, flowed through all five elements, although each individual may only manifest one. Good health is maintained and a harmonious existence is achieved – so the belief goes, when chi flows unhindered throughout the body. It’s from this philosophy that CHI, The Spa at the Shangri-La Hotel Doha takes its name. The first luxury, Asian-themed spa in Doha offers treatments to balance chi, release tension and restore peace and harmony.

About Yabby

Yabby takes its name from a freshwater crayfish widely found in Australian creeks and rivers. The yabby is a popular delicacy Down Under, usually eaten boiled. It’s so popular that it even lends its name to a summertime activity called ‘yabbying’, which refers to the act of looking for yabbies. A new and creative experience awaits diners at this vibrant, blue-toned restaurant that hosts the first adults-only brunch every Friday from 12 noon to 3:30 p.m. Brunch-goers can select oysters and yabby at the signature seafood counter before moving on to signature mains from the unlimited a la carte menu that celebrates the Australian crayfish with options such as the yabby breakfast, seafood pie, seafood linguine and their signature lobster kebbeh to name a few.

For information on the Shangri-La Hotel Doha call 4429-5000 or visit www.shangri-la.com/doha.

make The Shangri-La's culinary team each dish a work of art

It's deep-blue flavour at Yabby

The Spa Luxury treatment rooms at CHI, terrace have access to their own private

ENTERTAINMENT

Top Picks

DOHA MARRIOTT Pacha’s Back!

March 3: Beachside. The most awaited Pacha event is back at the Doha Marriott! Pacha Ibiza is bringing you the best of the best when it comes to international DJ’s and entertainment. Come to the beachside of the hotel for an exclusive evening of sweet tunes while enjoying an authentic Ibiza nightlife experience. This event is promising to be the most elite beach party of the year! For more information call 4429-8499.

InterContinental Doha The City ‘Mix And Mingle’

Feb 14: Strata. Come single and get double the beverages. The two for one happy hour is extended until 10:00 p.m. The night stops at midnight. All ladies get welcome beverages before 11:59 p.m. For more information call 4015-8888, or email doharestaurants@ihg.com.

The Grand Hyatt YU Nights

Feb 14: Dunes. Mark your calendars for a true Balkan night on Valentine’s Day at Dunes with a special performance by Bojana Marovic and her band. For more information call 4448-1280, or 7021-8094.

The Westin Doha Hotel & Spa MIX Bar, Lounge And Terrace InterContinental Doha Rugby 6 Nations

Feb 6: Paloma. Rugby 6 Nations kicks off in Paloma on February 6! Come and see who will be the kings of Northern Hemisphere rugby. Happy hour every Saturday on both food and refreshments; for Sunday games the happy hour is on refreshments only. For more information call 4484-4919 or 4484-4444.

Daily: This new lounge is a lively, soulful affair that gives new heart to Doha's social scene. Their playful approach belies an uncompromising commitment to quality. Watch their mixologists work their magic while you find a corner and fill it with friends – this is where Doha comes to play. For more information call 4492-1555.

ENTERTAINMENT

As told to Jorge Granda Images courtesy of Iconic Qatar

One of the most recognizable names in the world of dance music is making his comeback return to Qatar. Grammy-winning mix-master Tiësto is dropping the beat at the Sheraton Doha on February 25, marking his only Middle East stopover on his current world-tour – and you’re not going to want to miss it.

t’s been ten long years of parties for Global DJs as they’ve brought some of the best heavy-hitters in the world of music to Doha for your aural appreciation. To mark the milestone, Founder and Managing Director of Iconic Qatar, Jared McCulloch, is bringing Tiësto for an anniversary party that’s off the charts. “I wanted to do something really special to celebrate the occasion. Some might say you don’t

get bigger than Tiësto and I’d have to agree!” Jared tells us. “I’m really happy that we were able to bring him back to Qatar for this –as it will be his first stop in the Middle East in over two years.” For the last ten years, Global DJs has set the benchmark in Qatar, pioneering dance-music events, introduction, performances and débuts of A-List superstars and brands like Tiësto, Calvin Harris, Deadmau5, Above & Beyond, Defected In The House, Ferry Corsten, Armin Van Buuren, Paul Van Dyk, Mark Ronson, Pacha Ibiza, Ministry Of Sound, Hed Kandi and loads more. Performing at the Sheraton Doha, Tiësto’s show will be unlike set-up experienced in Doha yet, with a trademark world-tour production delivering a high-impact audiovisual spectacle topped off with special FX, fireworks, confetti cannons, Co2 smoke machines, giant LED screens and lasersystem light show. For Tiësto making music is about giving. The Grammy Award-nominated EDM icon offered up his greatest gift yet in the form of his fifth full-length album for a

major label, A Town Called Paradise – a career first for the Dutch DJ. That's saying a lot considering his track record too. He's gone from an underground trailblazer to a worldwide superstar who opened the 2004 Athens Olympic Games and was voted ‘The Greatest DJ of All Time’ by Mixmag and the "#1 DJ’ by Rolling Stone. He's headlined festivals around the globe including Ultra Music Festival, Stereosonic, Coachella,Tomorrowland/Tomorrow World and Electric Daisy Carnival, and has a storied 20-month residency at Hakkasan Las Vegas Restaurant and Nightclub and Wet Republic pool at the MGM Grand Hotel & Casino. Artists ranging from Kanye West and Coldplay, to Katy Perry and John Legend have personally tapped him for high-profile remixes, while Guess, AKG and Audiofly have collaborated with him on a fashion line and headphone brands, respectively. Also, A Town Called Paradise yielded his first two gold singles in the U.S. with the tracks ‘Wasted’ [featuring Matthew Koma] and ‘Red Lights’—while a medley from the album also soundtracks a

presentation at the Bellagio fountain in Las Vegas, a first for a dance music artist. With Sirius XM, Tiësto launched the Club Life channel (the only dance music artist to do so), nodding to his acclaimed compilation brand of the same name—now in its third installment. In December 2014, Tiësto was nominated for a Grammy in the Best Remixed Recording, Non-Classical category for his remix of John Legend’s ‘All Of Me.’ This is Tiësto’s second Grammy nomination following 2008’s inclusion in the Best Electronic/Dance Album category for Elements Of Life. Wanting to raise the bar yet again with album number five, he sought out what he refers to as the "biggest and best" partner possible. "I never had the chance to work with a major label before," he tells us with a smile. "I wanted to explore it and, as soon as I met with Casablanca and Republic Records, I knew it was the right place to go. My goal is to make the best music I can and to spread it as far as possible all over the world. They're opening the door for me to do that."

ENTERTAINMENT

perform as part For his return to Qatar, Tiësto will celebration of Global DJs' 10-year anniversary

Signing his deal in the middle of 2013, Tiësto immediately began work on what would eventually become Town Called Paradise. He approached the album with a desire to break ground, and he certainly does that at every turn. "The record has two sides to it," he says. "Part of me is always trying to innovate, and that's half of the album. The other half of me is always a crowd-pleaser. I love giving the audience what it wants. I put all of the experiences I've had over the past twenty years into this. This is my sound. Of course, it's dance –but it's melodic. There are strains of indie rock, yet it's very happy. These songs will make you smile. They'll make you dance. They'll make you want to go out. It's everything a Tiësto album should be." That's easy to hear on ‘Red Lights’. Written with Rami Yacoub and Carl Falk and featuring vocals by Michel Zitron, the track shines with Tiësto's instantly recognizable production and an unforgettable hook, crossing the line between house, electro, and pop. "It really reflects my life in Sweden when I lived there for five years," he admits. "I would walk around at night by myself sometimes when it was really cold and dark without knowing where to go. It stands for that period when I was trying to establish myself in a new place. The piano drop is very indicative of the Swedish sound too. 'Red Lights' represents my life there.” “I want to make people feel happy with my music," he enforces. "That's the most important thing. I hope they feel great when they listen to this. That's what I want to give everyone."

As for the concert in Qatar? Jared is sure it will be an extraordinary production for Iconic Qatar and Global DJs. “This particular event will culminate over ten years of experience in large-scale event management and it includes all the set-up and production you’d expect from a Tiësto show featuring world class special FX, LED screens, crowd interaction, as well as side-show performers on the night,” he teases. Tickets will go fast so get ‘em while they’re hot. n

Tiësto Live In Concert Location: Sheraton Doha Date: Thursday, February 25 Timings: From 8:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. Ticket Info: PHASE 1 – QR 300, including one special beverage

PHASE 2 – QR 350, including one special beverage

Tickets will be available online at Tiësto.ILoveQatar.net. Physical tickets will be available from the Sheraton Doha, Crepaway and SAQR Music Stores – though capacity is limited. VIP packages are available via www.facebook.com/iconicqatar. Contact Info: For more information call 3369-2133.

ENTERTAINMENT

As told to Jorge Granda

From the sun-soaked beaches of Ibiza, to the sandy shores of Doha, the first-ever exclusive Café del Mar event is hitting the Doha Marriott on February 12. QH gets ready to rock.

DJ Laura O'Shea will get the crowd warmed up as the sun sets

afé del Mar opened its doors for the first time on June 20, 1980 in Ibiza. The concept was simple – to play music to the sunsets. In its early days Café del Mar was a prominent meeting point among the locals and an origin of inspiration for artists and authors alike. By the 1990’s it had become the most popular destination in Ibiza. Around the world, Café del Mar is renowned for their annual chill-out compilations. The first official Café del Mar compilation was released in 1994 after overwhelming demand from fans. It was a global success and resulted in a much-respected series that, as of today, has sold in the millions. Besides the albums, Café del Mar branched out – allowing fans to enjoy their signature sounds at licensed franchises that have expanded to 11 different locations around the world, as well as at Café del Mar live events taking place in various international venues. After 35 years, Café del Mar still stands as the most respected music-and-lifestyle brand in the world, while growing each year. For the first time ever in Qatar, The Doha Marriott is bringing Doha party-goers this exclusive event. Enjoy the spectacular Doha sunset while listening to the cool beats of Just Giles, Longplayer and Laura O’Shea warming things up from 4:00 p.m., with headlining Resident Café Del Mar DJ Deep Josh hitting the decks from 9:00 p.m. This is the one party of the season that’s not to be missed! See you when the sun goes down… n Café Del Mar Location: Doha Marriott Date: February 12 Timings: From 4:00 p.m. onwards till late Ticket Info: Tickets for the Café Del Mar event will be sold through Q-Tickets and Virgin Megastore at QR 150 advance purchase or QR 200 at the door. Contact Info: For more information call 4429-8421.

ry journey, pts to an inspired Street Food culina From a host of new nightlife conce Marriott of new events coming to the Doha slew a of one only is Mar del Café

ENTERTAINMENT

Rocca poolside restaurant

Make it a meal to remember this Valentine's at The Grill

Enjoy Thai hospitality at Isaan

As told to Jorge Granda Images courtesy of The Grand Hyatt

February means Valentine’s Day! And what better way to show your better half you care than to treat them to a scrumptious high-end dinner on the 14th? The team at The Grand Hyatt will help make it a memorable night with their Valentine’s blowout, featuring special, world-class menus in each of their outlets to mark the occasion! QH has all the details.

f you’re into folklore, then you might already know that, according to historical legend, the tradition of Valentine’s Day dates back to 3rd century A.D. Europe – and it’s been celebrated ever since as a way to offer up a little extra love towards the people we care about most. Nowadays, February 14 is recognized through gift-giving (although chocolates and flowers are a bit passé!) and a whole lot of pampering – and The Grand Hyatt is celebrating in a big way. Their three main restaurants will enjoy an overhaul Since then people has been celebrating this special occasion every year. February 14 is the day to spread

the love and exchange affectionate gifts to one another. Going out to a nice restaurant for a special dinner is another way to spend quality time with a loved one and show them you care. The Grand Hyatt Doha is celebrating Valentine’s in a big way! Their main three restaurants will enjoy a bit of a transformation – turning into romantic venues welcoming everyone who wants to spread love this day.

The Grill At The Grill you can celebrate with an unforgettable romantic dinner. Enjoy a five-course menu of finedining options prepared by Chef de Cuisine Martin Kretzschmar for only QR 320.

Isaan Easily one of the best Thai restaurants in town, Isaan will delight diners with a magical romantic evening. With the sumptuous fragrance of the Thai cuisine, an enchanting atmosphere and exotic taste, an authentic meal from Isaan creates the perfect romantic evening. Feast on a special set-menu fit for the occasion prepared by Thai chef Sompon Sintawee for QR 320.

Rocca They say Italian is the language of love, and at Rocca they’ve created an extra-special romantic four- course set menu prepared by Italian chef Marco Cherubini for QR 320. For reservations and bookings call 4448-1234.

Brain-Candy Valentine's Trivia • 15% of U.S. women send themselves flowers on Valentine's Day. • 73% of people who buy flowers for Valentine's Day are men, while only 27 percent are women. • About 1 billion Valentine's Day cards are exchanged each year. That's the largest seasonal card-sending occasion of the year, next to Christmas. • About 3% of pet owners will give Valentine's Day gifts to their pets. • Alexander Graham Bell applied for his patent on the telephone, an ‘Improvement in Telegraphy’, on Valentine's Day, 1876. • California produces 60 percent of American roses, but the vast number sold on Valentine's Day in the United States are imported, mostly from South America. Approximately 110 million roses, the majority red, will be sold and delivered within a threeday time period. • During the Middle Ages, the belief that birds chose their mates on St. Valentine's Day led to the idea that boys and girls would do the same. Up through the early 1900’s, the Ozark Hill people in the eastern United States thought that birds and rabbits chose their mates on February 14, a day for them which was not only Valentine's Day, but Groundhog Day as well.

ENTERTAINMENT

By Jan Janssen Interview and selected images courtesy of Viva Press

The Grammy Award-winning songstress has been blowing up the airwaves since the November 2015 release of her third studio album 25. From tracks like ‘When We Were Young’ to ‘Hello’, Adele has described the record as a ‘make-up’ album – an outlet for her to find what she once feared was lost within herself. QH has the candid interview with the singer/songwriter.

weeks and then became the first record to have more than a million albums sold in three different weeks since Nielsen Soundscan started tracking sales in 1991. It's an historic moment in music as well as in the life of a sensitive, reflective artist who follows in the tradition of soul singers like Petula Clark and Roberta Flack and manages to set a new standard for sheer vocal brilliance. "Hall-oh from the out! side!," beckons Adele in the chorus of ‘Hello’, the transcendent track that grants her immediate entry her into the pantheon of recording greats. Interestingly, she is only now beginning to appreciate her success after an angst-ridden journey into fame and fortune.

The girl with the golden voice

t's hard to imagine that Adele could top the success of 21. She had also resigned herself to not being able to match that staggering accomplishment to the extent that she felt "liberated" by being able to record a new album and not worry about expectations. But with the release of her highly anticipated third album, 25, Adele has shattered all box-office statistics with seven million albums sold in 2015 and an average of a million CDs sold per week. The critics have raved about her work and, once again, Adele has laid claim to the title of the world's most popular recording artist and perhaps the best vocalist of her generation. 25 is a signature disk that pushes Adele into the musical stratosphere and takes her listeners to a heavenly place –albeit a troubled one. The British star saw ‘Hello’ become a global chart-topper as soon as it was released, becoming the first single in history to sell more than one million downloads in a week. Not only did the track shatter the all-time streaming mark on Spotify by accumulating 4 million plays in one day, but the accompanying music video also proved to be a world-beater, smashing Taylor Swift's record for the Vevo video site by raking in 27.7 million views in 24 hours. Oh, and 50 million YouTube views in 48 hours. In its second week, 25 became the first album ever to sell more than a million copies in two different

"I used to love the drama of all of it, but now I’m a Mum I only have so much head-space," she says. "I’ve got to clear a lot of stuff out, which is really therapeutic, ’cause I can really hold a grudge. Life is so much easier when you don’t hoard your past." When her second LP 21 was released in 2011, it was an immediate global sensation and went on to be named album of the year and earn her six Grammys. Recently, Billboard magazine conducted a detailed sales analysis and declared it to be the most successful album of all time, with sales of over 31 million copies and 24 non-consecutive weeks at No. 1, topping Michael Jackson's Thriller, Taylor Swift's Fearless, and Bruce Springsteen's Born in the U.S.A. The unprecedented popularity of 21 transformed Adele into one of the most beloved singer/ songwriters of all time, but it also set an impossibly high standard for Adele to match. That explains the lengthy personal and creative process that led her to write and record 25. Together with her boyfriend Simon Konecki, a 41-year-old investment banker-turned philanthropist, Adele is fully occupied with raising their three-year-old son, Angelo. Motherhood has become an increasingly dominant theme in the 27-year-old pop star's reflection and helped her refocus her energies. She believes that 25 represents a turning point in her life and a sign of newfound self-awareness.

ENTERTAINMENT to know that I cared about how I was portrayed when he existed in my life, that I wasn't flippant with those things. I don't want to be a baby raising a baby. QH: Is your new album much more personal than ever? ADELE: It reflects a lot of thinking I've done about myself. It's much more serious and introspective. It's like going through a mid-life crisis at 25 and trying to figure out how you're going to become the individual you want to be. I'm still at that point where I'm trying to decide what comes next and how I want to move on with my life in the coming years. QH: What kind of statement does 25 make about you? ADELE: The album is about trying to clear out the past. Becoming a parent and moving past my midtwenties, I simply don’t have the capacity to worry about as many things that I used to really enjoy worrying about. I haven't got time to fall apart. I'm the backbone for my kid, and I want to be there for him. And I want to be there for my boyfriend as well, and I don't want to bring them down with me for my art....I’m in a brighter space. QH: You waited four years before beginning work on your new album. Did you want to take a break from the business? ADELE: I didn't think I had it in me to write another record. I didn't know if I should. Because of how successful 21 was, I thought, 'Maybe everyone's happy with that being the last thing from me. Maybe I should bow out on a high.’ As time went on, I realized I had no choice. I have to write more music for myself, and there's nothing else I want to do. I also needed to take time for myself and understand more about who I want to be and who I've become. It was important for me to pull back from the music world for a while and wait until I knew I was ready to go back to work. effort 25, Adele broke new With the release of her third studio the best-selling album of all time ground with her record becoming

QH: Does 25 constitute the beginning of a new chapter in your life? ADELE: It's part of the process...In order to move forward you have to deal with things. My whole life I've swept things under the carpet. But I've learned its unhealthy, you can't hide them. When you're a parent you have to have a clear head and I only have so much capacity for junk now. You have to deal with things. It was great. It made me realize that the things I was holding onto – good and bad – weren't that good and weren't that bad. It was very therapeutic. Giving birth and raising a child has helped me find my identity. QH: Compare the Adele of (previous album) 21 compared to the Adele of 25.

ADELE: I'm older. I look at things differently. The way that I told everyone what 21 was about, I'm glad I did it like that, and I'm glad I was so candid and honest. But that information went everywhere – know what I mean? I had a lot of time to reflect on all of that while I was out of the limelight. And I think, in some ways, my attitude towards my ex-boyfriend when I was writing 21 was a little immature. But I was a kid. I was 21. And now that I'm a Mum, I feel like everything I do, I'm making a legacy for my child. So I try and be proper and professional with all of my life, not just my career. I think it's really important that I'm very articulate with my feelings going forward, because he will read all about this one day, and I want him

QH: Did you have any apprehensions that maybe you had spent too much time away from music? ADELE: Oh, I worried a lot about that. You start thinking that people have forgotten you and I wondered whether I had missed my window. I'm very glad though that people are willing to embrace me and my music again. I never expected anything like this [referring to the initial sales for 25 – EDITOR]. QH: What is the biggest change in the way you approach your music now with the release of 25 as opposed to your previous work? ADELE: I wasn't giving very much of myself at all. (Earlier) I was writing the songs that were rubbish, so I think it's just the sacrifice you have to make. My worst fear is not being believed, that's my worst

Adele and partner Simon Konecki

fear, so if that means I've got to give away myself then that's fine. QH: Would you describe your music as sad or melancholy? ADELE: There is sadness...I think sadness does connect with people, but I hope I don't only bring sadness. I'd like to bring joy to people as well, but sometimes you find joy in sadness. And you know, I'm not a devastated person. I get my devastation out when I'm writing my songs, and if that brings any comfort to anyone then that's great. QH: What's it like being a Mum and raising a child while you're also one of the world's greatest musical artists? ADELE: It’s hard. I thought it would be easy. ‘Everyone does it, how hard can it be?’ Ohhhhh... I had no idea. It is hard but it’s phenomenal. It’s the greatest thing I ever did. (My son) makes me feel young and there’s nothing more grounding than a kid kicking off and refusing to do what you’re asking of them. It used to be that my own world revolved around me, but now it has to revolve around him. He's a little angel. All the things I really like about myself, he brings out in me, and he's the only person that tells me no. He completely rules me. He's the boss of me, and it's so funny for other people to watch, because I'm the boss of everything in my work life. QH: Was it a big adjustment to getting used to working on a new album while looking after your little boy? ADELE: I feel like the process of writing my record was such a selfish act to do, being a parent…So I felt terrible. No more terrible than any other mom does, or other parent. The guilt of having a bad studio session and spending like eight hours away –

I still regret it. I didn't have a choice, though. I don't work at home at all. I don't even play guitar at home, because I was frightened I'd wake the baby up. But every working mother has the same feelings so you need to know that as much as you would like to be with your child as much as possible, you still need to do the things that you love and make you fulfilled creatively.

We think an armful of Grammies is worth a grin or two!

QH: Was making 25 a very different experience from making 21? ADELE: Very different. (Laughs) I had vocal issues while I was making 21 and I had to take rest breaks every now and then in order to complete it. Also for that album I came to the studio with the lyrics already written and this time I had nothing. QH: Why was that? ADELE: I didn't have time. So it took longer in the studio this time because I don't work at home. I like to separate my home from my work. I don't take my life to work or my work to home. That sounds stupid because my songs are very personal. But there's a different head-space between being a Mum and being an artist. QH: What has motherhood meant to you personally? ADELE: It's brought me so much joy...I felt so mega having given birth –the confidence from that, I felt unstoppable. I’m sure most women feel that. Towards the end of the 21 stuff, I couldn’t remember why I was doing it anymore. I couldn’t answer the question: ‘Why am I halfway around the world? On my own?’ But then, after I had my son, I thought, ‘Yeah, that’s why I did it all.’ I felt proud of what I’d achieved with 21 for the first time. And now everything I do, in

every channel of my life, is part of a legacy that I’m making for my child. QH: On 25 you address quite openly your previous relationship [with photographer Alex Sturrock – EDITOR]? ADELE: My last boyfriend was uncomfortable with how successful I was and the fact that he had to share me with lots of people...This is my ‘[expletive]you song,’ it sounds obvious but I think you only learn to love again when you fall in love again. QH: How has the presence of (new boyfriend) Simon Konecki changed your world? ADELE: He's so supportive. And that takes a very big man, because I'm very successful at what I do… It was sort of about a relationship suddenly getting really, really serious and then getting a bit frightened by it, and then realizing that, 'I think this must be right. This is the relationship that I want to be in for as long as I can possibly be in it.’ n

ENTERTAINMENT

Happenings By Jorge Granda

We go glitterati-glam to party all night long at the superexclusive Society Lounge. QH visits this new addition to Doha’s nightlife line-up to check out its ambiance, groovy crowd and trendy beverages.

s From fire-dancers to fresh air, there' p action nothing quite like a bit of roofto

he rooftop of West Bay’s Hilton Doha just got a whole lot fresher since the launch of its Society Lounge. We arrived on a chilly Tuesday night to check out what all the buzz was about surrounding this revamped space that was formerly High Heels’ Blanco Lounge. Society is classy, chic, minimalistic, and elegant with an upscale décor. Dominating the space is a huge catwalk where visiting performers can strut their stuff during their acts – think live vocalists, electric saxophonists and fire-dancers. The focal point is the massive bar and DJ booth where everyone can get their favourite refreshments on tap. Then on both sides of the lounge are sultry private booths and lush couches where you can recline in privacy, or, with a stellar view of the stage. Different DJs rock the decks every night playing a repertoire of genres – but all loud and all set to amp the crowd into a dance frenzy. There are also nightly live performances and, during special events, international DJs are flown in special to entertain the Society socialites. If all that dancing has you feeling peckish there’s an international menu with an array of tasty bites, mains, desserts – and even sushi.

Enjoy some lush sounds and a few

nibbles off the menu

Society Lounge opens daily from 6:00 p.m. to 2:00 a.m., except for Sundays when they are closed. The dress code is smart casual – so shorts or flip-flops are not allowed. An entry fee is applicable only on certain themed nights, or when there’s a big name coming to perform. Every Saturday is their Saturday Night Fever twist featuring the best of the oldies, while every Friday during the day Society will launch their Boho Fridays concept from 2:00 p.m. till 6:00 p.m., with a live band, different DJs on the spin, a delicious BBQ dinner and trendy refreshments. There’s also a daily happy hour from 6:00 p.m. till 9:00 p.m. and, for the ladies, they’ll find Mondays calling their name with free refreshments for two hours during the Ladies Night promotion.

your ears. As of December, they’ve started their Bazaar Nights on Wednesdays where a mix of English, Arab and French music from all eras will be on the play-list.

Every Thursday and Friday, Society brings international artists and performers to entertain

For more information on Society Lounge at the Hilton Doha call 4423-3333. n

Society Lounge is without a doubt a stunner for its view, its menu, its music and a revived outdoorsy ambiance. Earning it the QH seal of approval, we highly recommend you pass by and check it out!

ctive A central catwalk adds an intera element for Society performances

Virgin Recommends

QH brings you the top staff picks from the Megastore

NAME: Dennis Jimenez STORE SECTION: Electronics TIME AT VIRGIN: 1 year

Best Part of My Job:“You have freedom here to do a lot of things. You learn about all the new technologies, new devices and even the new designs. There’s a lot that you can explore here.”

Promate Portable LED Speaker This portable speaker is a triple threat! With a built-in LED light, microphone and re-chargeable battery, it’s one of our bestsellers. It’s easy to carry to the beach or even while you’re out walking, as you can connect to it wirelessly via Bluetooth. It’s a way to take your music to the next level. Retail price: QR 399.

GoPro – HERO4 GoPro’s got an upgrade – the 4KB quality of the HERO4 and its 12 megapixels for still photos allows you to capture the best moments in high definition. The all-new black edition allows you to take 30 frames per second at maximum resolution. How fast is that!? And, with additional batteries and a head-strap included, all you need to do is gear up and go show the world from your unique angle. Retail price: QR 2,099.

Microsoft Surface Pro 4 Watch out tech-geeks, we’ve got a new device coming through! Disguised as a tablet, the Microsoft Surface Pro laptop is faster and more powerful than its market competitors. All office-work can be done through its Windows-based interface, while its portability, compactness and light weight make it the perfect device for a world on the go. The future is now? Retail price: QR 4,799-QR 6,499.

Alienware M17x Ultimate This powerful laptop can enhance your gaming prowess with its 4GB graphics card and I-7 processor – but don’t worry, even though the laptop is specialized for hardcore gamers, it’s also popular among architects and engineers who use it for its remarkable graphics. This product is guaranteed to change the way you view the virtual-world on-screen. Retail price: QR 7,999-QR 13,999.

Givori iPhone 6S Every one of these gems is a masterpiece of its own. Conceptualized by Givori, each phone is like a piece of jewelry, featuring custom designs from the finest alligator-print detailing hand-brushed with pure silver dust, to Scottish tweed patterns with a pure gold finish. These glitzy ear-candies will have you looking like a million dollars. Retail price: QR 6,599-QR 16,999.

Spotlight On Movies February’s firing on all cylinders with these five box-office biggies!

Hail, Caesar!

How To Be Single

Comedy, Drama, Musical Boasting an all-star cast, the Coen brothers’ Hail, Caesar! aims to please, as 1950’s Hollywood fixer Eddie Mannix (played by Josh Brolin) works to keep the studio’s stars in line while he tracks down an actor who has vanished during filming. Stars: Scarlett Johansson, Channing Tatum, George Clooney QH Fun Fact: Selected as the opening film for the upcoming 2016 Berlin Film Festival, the cast includes four Oscar-winners (George Clooney, Frances McDormand, Tilda Swinton) and three Oscar nominees (Josh Brolin, Jonah Hill, Ralph Fiennes).

Comedy, Romance New York City is full of lonely hearts seeking the right match, and what Alice, Robin, Lucy, Meg, Tom and David all have in common is the need to learn how to be single in a world filled with ever-evolving definitions of love.

Biography, Drama, Sport Race tells the story of African-American sprinter Jesse Owens’ quest to become the greatest track and field athlete in history. Thrust onto the world stage at the 1936 Olympics in Berlin, his gold medal win single-handedly crushed Adolph Hitler’s myth of Aryan supremacy.

Stars: Dakota Johnson, Rebel Wilson, Leslie Mann

Stars: Carice van Houten, Jason Sudeikis, Stephan James

QH Fun Fact: Actress Dakota Johnson comes from a line of Hollywood royalty – she’s the daughter of actors Melanie Griffith and Don Johnson, while Antonio Banderas is her step-father.

QH Fun Fact: Actor John Boyega was originally cast to portray Owens, but dropped out to film Star Wars: Episode VII – The Force Awakens. Race also marks the first non-comedic role for actor Jason Sudeikis who plays Owens’ coach Larry Snyder.

Action, Horror, Romance Jane Austen’s classic tale of the tangled relationships between partners from different social classes in 19th century England is faced with a new challenge – an army of undead zombies. Stars: Lena Headey, Lily James, Matt Smith

Pride and Prejudice and Zombies 32

Race

QH Fun Fact: Lead actress Lily James accidentally stomped on the head of a real-life extra during filming for a scene, thinking it was a fake prop. Ouch! Not your best foot forward Lily…

Comedy Lovable airheads Derek and Hansel are modeling again when an opposing company attempts to take them out from the business. Time to break out the Blue Steel! Stars: Ben Stiller, Penelope Cruz, Owen Wilson QH Fun Fact: Talk about making an entrance – actors Ben Stiller and Owen Wilson hit the runway in character at Paris Fashion Week to announce the sequel.

Zoolander 2

ENTERTAINMENT

Listings

REGULAR PROMOTIONS DOHA MARRIOTT Never Miss A Game!

Daily: Pearl Lounge. Calling all sports fans! Catch your favourite sporting events including football, rugby, cricket and more! Join in at the Pearl Lounge from 5:00 p.m. till late! Enjoy delicious light bites and select beverages while cheering on your favourite teams. Happy Hour is from 5:00 p.m. till 8:00 p.m. For more information call 4429-8444.

Happy Hour

Daily: The View Poolside Restaurant. The View is a beautifully-designed terrace-style space located directly on the pool deck with excellent views over the Doha City Skyline. Enjoy your weekend brunch under the sun at the only outdoor pool terrace in Doha. Stop by with a friend and join the daily happy hour from 5:00 p.m. till 7:00 p.m. and enjoy the fantastic atmosphere that The View has to offer! For more information call 4429-8499.

HILTON DOHA Happy Hour Combo THE ST. REGIS DOHA Oyster Bay Live

Thurs & Fri: Oyster Bay beach. Every weekend, the resident reggae band gets the crowd grooving to their foot-tapping beats on the beach. Minimum spend QR 2,000 for VIP tables only. For more information call 4446-0105, or e-mail diningreservations@stregis.com.

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

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

SPECIAL PROMOTIONS ANTICA PESA DOHA Happy Hour

Mon, Tues & Wed: Enjoy your favourite beverages with a 50% reduced menu price. Prices start from QR 40. From 5:00 p.m. till 8:00 p.m. For more information call 4035-5300, email info@anticapesadoha.com, or visit www.kempinski.com/marsamalaz.

Ladies Night

Sundays: Ladies can enjoy welcome beverages, along with the sounds of a DJ, at the stylish first-floor lounge in Antica Pesa Doha. Prices are a la carte. From 8:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. For more information call 4035-5300, email info@anticapesadoha.com, or visit www.kempinski.com/marsamalaz.

DOHA MARRIOTT New Pearl Lounge!

Daily: The Pearl Lounge. ‘Pearls don’t lie on the sea-shore – if you want one, you must dive for it’ – Chinese proverb. The trendy and popular Pearl Lounge has taken on a new look, so join them instyle for the nightclub’s re-opening and unwind in chic and elegant surroundings. For more information call 4429-8444.

LA CIGALE Brand-New Sky View

Daily: Sky View. Aren’t you excited to catch a glimpse of the striking, newlyrenovated Sky View? Guess what? La Cigale has introduced a new double-floor indoor section, where you can cherish the nights all year-round. Enjoy the most vibrant mixes while savouring light snacks, house beverages and sushi. No entrance fee and no minimum charges during weekdays. (Rules and regulations apply). For more information call 4428-8204/888.

MÖVENPICK HOTEL DOHA Ladies Night

Tuesdays: Jazz Up. It’s mid-week and the weekend seems just too far away. Grab your girls, ditch the heels and hit ‘play’ on blowing off some Tuesday steam. With one free beverage on arrival and 25% off the tempting refreshments menu, Jazz Up is undoubtedly the perfect, cozy setting for a chat with your crew. From 5:00 p.m. until 1:00 a.m. For more information call 4429-1138.

Daily: Zawaya. Can you be tempted by a burger and happy hour selected beverage for QR 85? If so, then Zawaya’s got many options for you, with a happy hour on selected refreshments for QR 25. For more information call 5536-0347, 4423-3413, or email doha.restaurants@hilton.com.

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA Taco Tuesday

Tuesdays: Paloma. Tuesday night is Taco Night! Chef Salvador brings you the authentic flavours of real Mexican tacos. Choose five different varieties from the taco menu and top them up with a signature Mexican refreshment for QR 128. For more information call 4484-4444.

Girls Night Out

Wednesdays: Paloma. Girls Night Out is back! Every Wednesday, bring your girlfriends along and enjoy a complimentary fruity, frozen Mexican refreshment from 8:00 p.m. till late. But a party isn’t a party without a mystery piñata, and all the girls are welcome to stand a chance to bring home exciting prizes. QR 80 entrance fee is applicable for men. For more information call 4484-4444.

Thursday Vibes

Thursdays: Lava. With the resident DJ on the decks with his awesome tunes, Thursdays will become the only night you can possibly think of going to and, most importantly, leave with the excitement of coming back the next week! For more information call 4484-4444.

See us online! www.qatarhappening.com

ENTERTAINMENT INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA THE CITY Pink Wednesdays Wednesdays: Strata. Welcome to Doha’s only Pink Wednesday – a girls’ night out where the ladies receive two welcome refreshments upon arrival and can groove away to the tunes of R&B, soul and funk, along with a fantastic chance to win a high-end designer item like a Louis Vuitton bag and more! For more information call 4015-8888 or email doharestaurants@ihg.com.

After Work Evenings

Sun-Thurs: Hive. De-stress with an after-work visit to Hive and make the most of the buy-one-get-onefree offer on selected house refreshments between 5:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. For more information call 4015-8888 or email doharestaurants@ihg.com.

Bucket Week

Daily: Hive. Quench your thirst with a bucket of six for the price of four for QR 175. For more information call 4015-8888, or email doharestaurants@ihg.com.

KEMPINSKI RESIDENCES & SUITES New Happy Hour

Daily: The Lounge. The Lounge reveals their refreshed classic Happy Hour and extends it from 5:00 p.m. till 9:00 p.m.! Enjoy your favourite selected beverages and nibbles for only QR 30. For more information call 4405-3325, email restaurants.doha@kempinski.com, or visit www.kempinski.com/doha.

Grapes & Formaggio With Kéyali

Sundays: The Lounge. Enjoy an exceptional selection of grapes, paired with the best selection of cheeses from around the world. Prices start at QR 150 per platter plus grapes. Enjoy smooth live entertainment by Kéyali Mayaga and her band from 9:30 p.m. till 11:30 p.m. Complimentary entrance. For more information call 4405-3325, email restaurants. doha@kempinski.com, or visit www.kempinski.com/doha.

G&T Social

Tuesdays: The Lounge. Taste a premium selection of G&T mixes and indulge with a performance by Kéyali Mayaga and her band as they take the stage. All G&T mixes starting from QR 50. From 9:00 p.m. till 1:30 a.m. For more information call 4405-3325, email restaurants.doha@kempinski.com, or visit www.kempinski.com/doha.

MARRIOTT MARQUIS CITY CENTER DOHA After-Brunch Sessions

Fridays: Glo. Because brunch without an afterbrunch session is just a lunch! Come to Glo for an after-brunch session where guest DJs spin the latest grooves. Free entry. From 4:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. For more information call 4419-6100 or visit www.marriottmarquisdohadining.com.

Weekend Vibes

Thursdays: Glo. Glo brings you the finest DJs spinning the latest in house and tech music to start your weekend! Free entry. From 5:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. For more information call 4419-6100 or visit www.marriottmarquisdohadining.com.

Listings Bounce Arenas

Wed, Thurs & Fri: Champions. Champions presents evenings of international music and pizzazz with all your favourite songs played by their live band. QR 50 entry fee. From 8:00 p.m. onwards. For more information call 4419-6100 or visit www.marriottmarquisdohadining.com.

MARSA MALAZ KEMPINSKI HH Bohemia

Daily: Bohemia. Head to Bohemia for their happy after-work hours promotion with a selection of delicious special refreshments at QR 35 from 5:00 p.m. till 8:00 p.m. For more information call 4035-5011, email restaurants.marsamalaz@kempinski.com, or visit www.kempinski.com/marsamalaz.

Molecular Mondays

Mondays: Bohemia. Indulge in the perfected molecular mixology at Bohemia and enjoy a flight of three flavoured refreshments for QR 90 per person. From 8:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. For more information call 4035-5011, email restaurants.marsamalaz@kempinski.com, or visit www.kempinski.com/marsamalaz.

‘Hora Feliz’ Happy Hour

Daily: El Faro. Hola amigos! Unwind in the authentically Spanish ambiance of El Faro and get the chance to enjoy the buy-one-get-one offer on selected signature, delicious tapas and refreshments. Plus they’ve xtended the Hora Feliz on Fridays and Saturdays for more after-brunch fun! Sunday to Thursday from 5:00 p.m. till 8:00 p.m., and Friday to Saturday from 3:30 p.m. till 8:00 p.m. For more information call 4035-5011, email restaurants marsamalaz@kempinski.com, or visit www.kempinski.com/marsamalaz.

MÖVENPICK HOTEL DOHA Be Entertained At Jazz Up

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

NOIR LOUNGE & CLUB Bonnie

Tuesdays: Meliá Doha. For ladies night, enjoy three refreshments from a select menu, for all the femmes fatales. From 10:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. For more information call 5596-1414, or email info@noirdoha.com.

Clyde

Wednesdays: Meliá Doha. For gents night, enjoy two-for-one refreshments from a select menu, for all the chivalrous knights. From 10:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. For more information call 5596-1414, or email info@noirdoha.com.

Prologue

Thursdays: Meliá Doha. The resident DJ ‘W’ presents a night of smooth, vocal deep house. From 10:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. For more information call 5596-1414, or email info@noirdoha.com.

SHANGRI-LA HOTEL DOHA Happy Hour

Weekly: The Den. Experience the longest happy hour in town at Doha’s first non-smoking lounge with beverages from QR 30 from 5:00 p.m. till 1:00 a.m. on weekdays, and 5:00 p.m. to 2:00 a.m. on weekends. For more information call 4429-5295.

SHERATON DOHA Midnight Happy Hour

Sun-Wed: Irish Harp. In the Irish Harp from Sundays to Wednesdays, 11:00 p.m. till midnight, enjoy selected refreshments at a special price. For more information call 4485-3000.

Salsa Night

Wednesdays: Irish Harp. Hit the floor for some salsa dancing and music all night long. Prepare your dancing shoes and join them every Wednesday. QR 50 entry fee for men, free entry for ladies. For more information call 4485-3000.

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

Liquid Brunch

Fridays: Dunes. This year’s brunch gets right to the point! Spend Fridays the right way and join Dunes for Doha’s one and only after-brunch from 4:00 p.m. till 8:00 p.m. featuring resident DJ Santiago Vittorelli. A regular refreshments package is priced at QR 199 (which includes unlimited selected refreshments), a house spirits package at QR 299 and a premium package is priced at QR 499 (which includes unlimited select refreshments). For more information call 4448-1280 or 7021-8094.

THE ST. REGIS DOHA Sway Ladies Night

Wednesdays: The Rooftop. Luscious fruit skewers will be served during this ladies night promotion till 11:00 p.m. A photo-booth will also be installed where guests can get the chance to have their photo in a branded photo-frame. Premium booth bookings are QR 4,000 and premium table bookings are QR 2,000. Their in-house photographer will be available from 9:00 p.m. till late. For more information call 4446-0105, or email diningreservations@stregis.com.

Jazz Night

Wed & Sat: JALC Doha. All guests who had dinner in Opal or Gordon Ramsay Mediterranean will receive a card for a 50% discount at JALC Doha on the same day for after-dinner refreshments. From 6:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4446-0105, or e-mail diningreservations@stregis.com.

W DOHA ‘The VIBE’ Ladies Night

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

After Work Aperitivo

Sat-Fri: Wahm. De-stress and head down to Wahm for an after work aperitivo with 50% off on all refreshments. From 5:00 p.m. till 8:00 p.m. For more information call 4453-5323.

Arabian Nights

Saturdays: Crystal. Crystal proudly presents Arabesque nights, spinning popular Arabic numbers along with DJ Imran mixing the best of R&B and commercial house throughout the night. From 10:00 p.m. onwards. For more information call 4453-5323.

Dance N’ Fly Ladies Night

Wednesdays: Crystal. Ladies, gather your girlfriends and head to Crystal club’s Dance N’ Fly Ladies Night featuring resident DJ Masse mixing up the latest tunes to make the night fabulous. Ladies receive three complimentary refreshments from 10:00 p.m. till 12:00 midnight. For more information call 4453-5323.

See us online! www.qatarhappening.com

ENTERTAINMENT

Directory

Jazz At Lincoln Center Doha The St. Regis Doha

The Irish Harp Sheraton Doha

The View Doha Marriott

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

4448-4800

The Jazz Club Oryx Rotana

4402-3333

Pearl Lounge Doha Marriott

4429-8888

Beach Bar Lounge The Four Seasons

4494-8888

Jazz Up Mövenpick Hotel Doha

4429-1111

Qube Radisson Blu

4428-1428

Belgian Café InterContinental Doha

4484-4444

Lava Lounge InterContinental Doha

4484-4444

Rocca The Grand Hyatt

4448-1234

Bohemia Marsa Malaz Kempinski

4035-5555

Level 23 The Ritz-Carlton

4448-4800

Shanghai Club Shangri-La Hotel Doha

4429-5000

Bubbles On Two Radisson Blu

4428-1428

Shehrazad Radisson Blu

4428-1428

Sky View La Cigale

4428-8888

Champions Marriott Marquis City Center Doha Cigar Lounge Sharq Village & Spa Crystal Lounge W Doha

Dunes The Grand Hyatt Glo Marriott Marquis City Center Doha Habanos The Ritz-Carlton

Hive InterContinental Doha The City Jazz At Lincoln Center Doha The St. Regis Doha

Liquidity Crowne Plaza Doha - The Business Park

4408-7777

4419-6100

Madison Piano Bar La Cigale

4425-6666

Manhattan Radisson Blu

4453-5135

4448-1234

4419-6100

4484-8000

4015-8888

4446-0000

Misturado Crowne Plaza Doha - The Business Park

Strata Lounge InterContinental Doha The City

4015-8888

The Den Shangri-La Hotel Doha

4429-5000

The Irish Harp Sheraton Doha

4485-4444

The Library Radisson Blu

4428-1428

4408-7777

Mix Bar, Lounge and Terrace Westin Doha Hotel & Spa

4428-8888

4492-1555

Noir Lounge & Club Meliá Doha

5596-1414

The Library Bar & Cigar Lounge The Four Seasons

4494-8888

Orion Radisson Blu

4428-1428

The Lounge Kempinski Residences & Suites

4405-3325

Oyster Bay The St. Regis Doha

4446-0105

Vintage Lounge The St. Regis Doha

4446-0105

Paloma InterContinental Doha

4484-4444

Wahm W Doha

4453-5353

Arts & Culture

Top Picks

Anima Gallery & Lounge Diffusion: A Solo Exhibition by Peter Zimmermann

Until April 18: 30 La Croisette, Porto Arabia, The PearlQatar. Peter Zimmermann’s work expresses his unique point of view through combining the use of airbrushing with digital arts. Zimmermann gained international prominence with his individualistic paintings, and his conceptualized artwork on classic art world books and catalogues such as Book Cover Paintings and Boxes. For more information call 3377-1370, email art@animagallery.com, or visit www.animagl.com.

Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra The Nutcracker Of Tchaikovsky

Feb 6: Katara Opera House. Dmitrij Kitajenko conducts the Qatar Philharmonic in Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky’s The Nutcracker. Also on the program are Antonín Dvorák’s Carnival Overture, Op.92, and Reinhold Gliére’s Harp concerto in E flat major, Op.74. Tickets are QR 75-QR 200 and can be purchased online at tickets. virginmegastore.me, at any Virgin Megastore outlet, or directly at the Katara Opera House. Performance starts at 7:30 p.m. For more information visit www.qatarphilharmonicorchestra.org.

Enana Ballet Academy Bollywood Dance Classes

Wed-Fri: Haloul St., Abu Hamour. Bollywood dance classes offer the experience of physical and mental relaxation through a form of exercising that works all your muscles in a positive and upbeat environment. Classes are held on Wednesday at the Enana Ballet Academy studios in Abu Hamour, Thursdays at the Hilton Doha, and Fridays at the Radisson Blu. For more information call 3093-0053, email bollywooddoha@gmail.com, or visit www.enanagroup.qa.

IAID Classical Ballet For Ladies VCUQatar Faculty Exhibition

Until Feb 15: VCUQatar Gallery. The works in this exhibition are all by artists and designers who are teaching and researching at VCUQatar. The aim of the annual Faculty Exhibition is to give its members an opportunity to present the results of their current artistic and design research and exploration in a select, juried exhibition that provides enhanced visibility to both faculty members and the VCUQatar Gallery. Entry is free. For more information call 4402-0555, or visit www.qatar.vcu.edu/events.

Tues & Thurs: Hilal St., Al-Tadamon Signal, D-Ring Road. Classical ballet is an artistic dance form performed to music using precise and highly formalized set steps and gestures. Light, graceful, fluid movements and the use of pointe shoes characterize this style of dance. For more information call 4432-0974/4441-1234, email enquire@iaidonline.org, or visit www.iaidonline.org.

Arts & Culture

Top Picks

By Ashlee Starratt Selected photography by Jessie Palanca Additional images courtesy of Shakespeare’s Globe

There’s also what’s called an ‘MOC’, or a ‘massive online course’ on Shakespeare for teachers and young learners of English – so that’s [soon] going to be announced as well.

From his iconic tragedies and comedies, to his popular turnsof-phrase still in use today, no single author has influenced and, indeed, revolutionized the English language more than William Shakespeare. The prolific playwright and poet penned 38 plays and 154 sonnets during the 16th century and his works are still studied and performed to this day. QH sits down with Frank Fitzpatrick, Director of the British Council Qatar and Waseem Kotoub, Head of Arts and Creativity to learn more about its Shakespeare Lives 2016 cultural program which aims to foster a renewed appreciation for the Bard among audiences in Qatar.

QH: What are some of the other cultural events that are planned for the program throughout the year?

QH: Shakespeare Lives is one of the largest cultural programs rolled out by the British Council Qatar – with prominent partnerships across the sectors of education, government, arts and culture. Tell us more. FF: Well, Shakespeare Lives is a joint initiative between the British Council and the Government of the U.K. as part of their GREAT Britain campaign. It’s a global initiative running in over 70 countries and the aim of it is to celebrate the works of Shakespeare on the 400th anniversary of his death this year. So we are really the lead organization in making this happen. We also have the full support of the Ministry of Culture, Arts and Heritage, under the patronage of H.E. the Minister of Culture, Dr. Hamad bin Abdulaziz Al-Kuwari, who are actually helping us with the [program’s] production, in terms of financing and support. Essentially it’s a series of information, exhibitions, events and plays taking place all around the world – but probably the most interesting element is the online digital portal, which aims to contact over half a billion people across the globe and engage them through social media on Facebook and Twitter.

WK: There will be a music program with the Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra on March 19 at QNCC which will be part of Shakespeare Week during the British Festival next month. On this night we’ll hear a performance of some of Shakespeare’s music –Prokofiev’s Romeo and Juliet for example, Tchaikovsky’s Hamlet overture etc. We’ll also be planning a literary translation workshop with a focus on Shakespeare – called Shakespeare In Translation – in partnership with Qatar University as part of their Drama Festival. In terms of film screenings we have Much Ado About Nothing, and also a special showcase of Hamlet later on in partnership with the Doha Film Institute. We’re in talks with Academy Awardwinning Scottish composer Patrick Doyle, who’s a long-time collaborator with actor Kenneth Branagh (Hamlet, Harry Potter), and has scored many Shakespearean films. So he’s quite a celebrity and he already did a concert in Prague which had all of Shakespeare’s music in one concert. This will be in partnership with the Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra and the Doha Film Institute, because we want to talk about both the film and music industries in one event with a focus on Shakespeare. Also Qatar University students in the Literature Department are very much interested [in the program] and are supporting and promoting [our] events. Two actors from the Globe Theatre went to Qatar University the day after their January 13th performance of Hamlet at Souq Waqif’s Al Rayyan Theatre, to talk to the Literature students about the play. In fact the main topic of their January exams was Hamlet, so we planned this in conjunction Qatar University that the last topic [the students] discussed in the semester was Hamlet and then that same night they went to see the show. It was a very nice experience.

QH: How have Shakepeare’s works retained such relevancy across the centuries? FF: Well, for a number of reasons – first and foremost Shakespeare’s influence on the English language was enormous in terms of its development and standardization since 400 years ago. I think they calculated 3,000 new words and phrases that were introduced to the English vocabulary through his plays – and this laid the foundation for Samuel Johnson’s first dictionary of the English language… he drew a lot on Shakespeare. And also, the range of subjects and themes in Shakespeare are really quite wide –love, passion, intrigue, politics, and they offer a lot of insight into human behaviour – deception, pretense etc. There have been a lot of the quotes that come from Shakspeare which have seeped into the English language… quotes on cowardice, or bravery for example. Not only that, he’s also inspired a lot of cultural work globally…things like opera and music – Tchaikovsky’s The Tempest , Verdi, who wrote an opera about Macbeth, composer Gaetano Donizetti and his I Capuleti e i Montecchi opera which was based on Romeo and Juliet. Romeo and Juliet was also the theme for Gone With The Wind –it’s everywhere! Even in pop music you see references to Romeo and Juliet

Waseem Kotoub, Head of Arts and Creativity, the British Council Qatar

and Shakespeare. So it’s probably quite a subtle influence but his inspiration is all over. I can’t think of anymore things that Shakespeare has influenced… QH: Would you say that Shakespearean literature and drama has had less of an influence across this region in terms of how much it’s studied, or how much it’s appreciated as an art-form? FF: I don’t think so –over a billion schoolchildren study Shakespeare across the world. There’s always an element in the curriculum that involves Shakespeare, I think the key is making it accessible – even for native speakers of English and that’s part of this [Shakespeare Lives] program as well. It’s not just about his plays as a high art-form; it’s also about the messages and the themes that come through Shakespeare and the kind of special language as well. QH: We’ve had our very own local theatre troupe The Doha Players put on two productions of Shakespeare over the last year –Macbeth and The Tempest. Will the Shakespeare Lives program be collaborating with them as well throughout its duration? WK: Indeed, we have the Doha Player’s on-board. They helped us on the night of the Globe Theatre’s production of Hamlet held last month, with actors in their full costume supporting and welcoming guests. We also have some vocalists [from the troupe] who are going to sing some of Shakespeare’s music from that period…so they’re on-board and their contribution to the Shakespeare movement in Qatar is very well-recognized. QH: We like the fact that you returned to the Al Rayyan Theatre for Hamlet as the British Council has sponsored numerous performances in the Souq as part of the British Festival. It’s nice to have been able to bring a world-class production to audiences in a smaller, more intimate setting. WK: Exactly. We wanted to support Souq Waqif – that’s part of it you know…part of our mission to attract new audiences who don’t only want to go to opera houses which have a very limited type of audience. We want to open it up and make it more accessible as Frank said – Shakespeare needs to be more accessible in terms of language, in

Frank Fitzpatrick, Director of the

British Council Qatar

terms of having disabled actors who are actually now doing a lot of Shakespeare – companies such as Definitely Shakespeare for example. So there’s a lot of talk about this [kind of outreach], and it’s actually what encouraged UNESCO to come on board as partners to promote education through Shakespeare. FF: There was a very interesting article a while back in The Peninsula by British Prime Minister David Cameron that’s worth reading as it gives a kind of idea as to the level of support [for this initiative]. In the article Prime Minister Cameron mentions lots of words and phrases coined by Shakespeare. He says, for example, Nelson Mandela while a prisoner on Robben Island, cherished a quote from Shakspeare’s Julius Caesar which said ‘Cowards die many times before their deaths/The valiant never taste of death but once.’ Also, words like ‘disheartened’, ‘motionless leap-frog’, and expressions such as ‘band of brothers’, and ‘heart of gold’ all come from directly from Shakespeare and have quite specific meanings. QH: There’s no question that Shakespeare really has revolutionized the modern language. If there’s one thing you’d say to someone reading this article who is still on the fence about exposing themselves to Shakespeare – what would it be? FF: I would say get onto the web on this…go to our website and look at all the things that are coming out throughout the year for schools and for teachers. [These resources] are freely available and the focus is very much on making Shakespeare relevant and accessible in a way that people probably don’t realize...especially to connect with a younger audience.

Ladie Emeruwa (left) from Actors Tom Lawrence (right) and perform on-stage the Hamlet Globe-To-Globe tour

WK: Shakespeare lives. That’s exactly what we’re reflecting – Shakespeare is for all generations, all societies, all walks of life. n To learn more about the British Council Qatar’s Shakespeare Lives 2016 cultural program and its full line-up of events, visit www.britishcouncil.qa. actors rehearse Holding the infamous Yorick's Skull, Be' soliloquy Hamlet's iconic 'To Be, Or Not To

Arts & Culture

tion and outreach r for JALC Doha, musical educa In his role as Global Ambassado

By Shahmim Akram Photography by Jessie Palanca

QH took the private elevator at The St. Regis Doha to meet musician Richard Johnson, the new Global Ambassador for Jazz At Lincoln Center Doha (JALC). Impressed by his smooth, charismatic and approachable personality, we talked with him about his life and all things jazz!

tops Richard Johnson's to-do list

something and try to make it happen. I would pick musicians up at the airport just to be around them, get information from them, write them letters, you know – just put myself in that environment so that I could pick up whatever information I could.

of the songs are, because they hear it all the time— they're just not aware of what it is. We’ve done some programs with the American schools –you know, we’re trying to branch out and reach as many people as we can to bring the music to a broad audience.

I would tell a lot of young people that if you're really serious about it you need to be serious about it. Figure out what you can do within your realms, as much as possible, to make something happen. Even if it seems extreme still go for it because the extreme things are what actually make it happen for people.

QH: What message would you like to send across about jazz?

QH: How did you end up in Doha? QH: Richard how did you get into jazz? RJ: When I was about five my Dad gave me lessons. We had a piano in the house and I liked to tell people it was like having a computer nowadays. My Dad would play it in the morning and at night, and we would tinker on it and play on it. I was a typical teenager but when I was in 10th grade…I started to practice regularly for five to six days a week. I started getting information from teachers, watching videos, records, you know… whatever I could get my hands on. They entered me in district regional competitions and I won all those in one state for piano soloist and composition. Since I was in Boston, I would take the train or drive down to Berklee College of Music and hang out with all the best musicians, because that’s where they said they went. QH: So you took your own initiative to learn more about jazz? RJ: Yeah, I was definitely self-driven since I was young. I would figure out how to do

RJ: In June 2013 JALC asked me to bring a group over. I was very impressed and it seemed to fit my personality. I came back later and the community seemed to like me. I know the club, I know the area, I know the people. As the Global Ambassador I’m the face of the club—to keep the morale and the hype going so that people are aware of JALC and can speak to somebody who is a musician. QH: Tell us about your educational programs? RJ: I started a program called ‘Reach Afar’ to show children what real instruments sounded and looked like–because a lot of kids nowadays just think it comes out of a computer. I wanted them to see the band, the piano, the drums, the saxophone…we were going to two or three schools a day to show them what hip-hop is and what jazz is, and how hip-hop pulls a lot of things from jazz. Here at The St. Regis we bring in children for Family Jazz Afternoon where we teach them about blues and jazz, and get them to know what the forms

RJ: Although jazz is a lot of improvisation there’s a lot of practice too, which a lot of people don’t realize – they just see the final product. We practice four days a week, we’re rehearsing and practicing the melodies, the songs, the intros. Our job is to make sure that people have a great experience when they come to the club and they walk away with a good feeling. That’s one of the things that [jazz legend] Thelonious Monk really wanted people to remember – the feeling that comes across. This year the slogan that I’ve created for the club is ‘Jazz is cool, Jazz is fun, Jazz is Doha!’. I want people to remember that. Jazz is cool – it’s trendy, it’s about how you dress, it’s about how you play. Jazz is fun –it’s a fun and creative thing to do. The club here is the home for JALC in the Middle East, there is no other JALC in the world right now – so jazz is Doha! n Jazz At Lincoln Center Doha is located in The St. Regis Doha and is open from 8:00 p.m. every day except Sundays. For more information about their February musical jazz line-up or their Family Jazz Talks, check out www.jalcdoha.com or call 4446-0105. Richard Johnson’s latest music release Here I Am is available for purchase online and at JALC Doha. JALC holds free monthly jazz concerts at MIA Park – the next concert is scheduled for February 17.

Arts & Culture

Listings

Museum Guide

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

QH RECOMMENDS

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

The Fire Station & Garage Gallery

QATAR MUSEUMS Qatar-China 2016 Year Of Culture

Ongoing: As part of the Qatar-China 2016 Year of Culture, a range of activities and events have been planned for all in both countries to enjoy. Highlights in Qatar will include a Chinese Movie Week and an open-air Chinese Festival featuring music, performance, crafts and food from different regions of China. Upcoming events and additions to the program will be announced throughout the year. For more information visit www.qm.org.qa.

ANIMA GALLERY & LOUNGE Resinification: A Solo Exhibition by Mauro Perucchetti

Until Sept 30: Parcel 17, Porto Arabia, The Pearl-Qatar. Mauro Perucchetti’s work unites pop aesthetics with social commentary, addressing some of the most pressing and difficult issues in today’s society in a way that’s subtle and accessible, without being trite, shocking, or obscure. Opening hours are Sunday to Thursday from 10:00 a.m. till 7:00 p.m. For more information call 3377-1370, email art@animagallery.com, or visit www.animagl.com.

DOHA YOUTH & JUNIOR CHOIRS Choir Auditions

Sun & Wed: The Doha Youth Choir and the Doha Junior Choir are now holding auditions for singers ages seven to 10-years-old and 11 to 18-years-old. Choir teachers are experienced and dedicated to the cause of sharing their knowledge and passion for choral music. They rehearse Sunday and Wednesday afternoons in Al Waab. For more information email info@dohayouthchoir.com, or visit www.dohayouthchoir.com.

IAID Visual Arts

Sat-Thurs: Hilal St., Al-Tadamon Signal, D-Ring Road. IAID’s Visual Arts program is a progressive course for beginners, intermediate and advanced that covers colour theory, art styles, drawing and painting techniques, shapes and figures, visual art perception and portraits with the use of various art mediums. For more information call 4432-0974/4441-1234, email enquire@iaidonline.org, or visit www.iaidonline.org.

MATHAF: ARAB MUSEUM OF MODERN ART Focus: Works From Mathaf Collection

Until Feb 14: Ground-Floor Galleries. Offering a glimpse into some of its most iconic works, the museum’s Focus exhibition presents five solo shows highlighting a selection of key artists in its collection. Among them are some of the Arab world’s groundbreaking modern and contemporary artists – Saloua Raouda Choucair (Lebanon), Inji Efflatoun (Egypt), Farid Belkahia (Morocco), Faraj Daham (Qatar), and Abdulhalim Al-Radwi (Saudi Arabia). Entry is free and opening hours are Tuesday to Sunday from 11:00 a.m. till 6:00p.m. Closed on Mondays. For more information call 4402-8855 or visit www.mathaf.org.qa.

QATAR PHILHARMONIC ORCHESTRA MAias Alyamani’s One Way Ticket Feb 11: Chamber Music at The Museum Of Islamic Art atrium. Featuring the talents of Dmitri Torchinsky, violin; Nina Heidenreich, violin; MAias Alyamani, violin; Andrea Mereutza, viola; Sandor Onodi, double bass; Christoph Schmitz, cello, and Ferdinand Schäfer, percussion. This sextet will perform a selection of works including Yamen Alyamani’s January Rush and Hamam Almdina, plus a selection of original compositions from MAias Alyamani such as Early Morning, One Way Ticket and Behind these Mountains. No ticket is required for this concert. Performance starts at 6:00 p.m. For more information visit www.qatarphilharmonicorchestra.org.

Old Civil Defense Roundabout contact@firestation.org.qa www.firestation.org.qa. Open: Wednesday to Monday Closed: Tuesdays

ALRIWAQ DOHA

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

QMA Gallery

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

VCUQATAR Community Classes

Ongoing: Education City. In addition to its summer programs, VCUQatar offers a choice of over 40 community education classes related to art, design and crafts, three times a year. Every fall (October to December), spring (February and March) and late spring (late April to mid-June) you can enhance your knowledge about photography and filming, glimpse into Islamic pattern construction or Arabic calligraphy and explore the world of fashion or interior design. For more information on registration for the 2015/2016 calendar year call 4402-0555, or visit www.qatar.vcu.edu/community.

online! See us rhappening.com www.qata

Community

Top Picks

Scots In Qatar Burns Supper

Qatar National Convention Centre Destination Imagination Qatar Invitational

Feb 11: Radisson Blu. The Burns Supper is a celebration of the life and works of the Scottish poet, Robert Burns. One of Scotland’s most preeminent authors, each year Doha’s Scottish population comes together to mark the occasion with food, music and revelry. For more information on timings and tickets email scotsinqatar@gmail.com, or visit www.scotsinqatar.com.

Feb 25-28: QNCC. In partnership with The Al Faisal Without Borders Foundation and Destination Imagination Inc., this program is a fun, hands-on system of learning that fosters students’ creativity, courage and curiosity through open-ended academic challenges in the fields of STEM, fine arts and service learning. Teams from the Gulf region and the company’s international affiliates will be able to showcase their talents, skill and challenge solutions. For more information visit www.imaginedoha.org.

Qatar Animal Welfare Society Become A Volunteer

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

The Doha Bus Hop-On, Hop-Off Tours

Ongoing: Greater Doha area. The Doha Buss is Qatar’s first Hop-On, Hop-Off sight-seeing bus tour, providing both local residents and visiting tourists a flexible way to discover the country’s vibrant past, present and future. Each tour highlights a variety of interesting locations including Souq Waqif, The Pearl-Qatar, Villaggio Mall and The Museum of Islamic Art. Offering tours in seven different language options, as well as group discounts, private coach tours and corporate outings. Operates daily from 9:00 a.m. till 9:00 p.m. For more information call 4442-2444.

Tuesday Ladies Group Coffee Meet Up

Bi-Weekly: Radisson Blu. A group made for international expat women that want to meet for coffee, cake, friendship and conversation. Newcomers are always welcome to join. The group meets every second Tuesday at 9:30 a.m., from September through June. For more information email tlgindoha@gmail.com, or visit www.tlgdoha.com.

COMMUNITY

U.S. Ambassador to the State of

Qatar H.E. Dana Shell Smith

By Ashlee Starratt Photography by Jessie Palanca

Discover America – USA Week Qatar 2016 kicks off this month from February 15-22 as part of a joint initiative between the U.S. Embassy in Doha and the American Chamber of Commerce (AmCham). This week will highlight the best of American culture, food, business and community in Doha. QH was privileged to sit down with the U.S. Ambassador to the State of Qatar H.E. Dana Shell Smith, for an exclusive one-on-one to learn more about the ties that bind the two nations. QH: Thank you for taking the time to chat with us Your Excellency. This will be the second year that the U.S. Embassy and AmCham will be hosting Discover America – USA Week Qatar. Can you walk our readers through the focus of the event? DSS: This year Discover America will be a huge event – even bigger than last year, which I’m very excited about. The idea behind Discover America Week is to showcase the depth and variety of the US-Qatar relationship. Whether through American products, American culture, American food, or educational partnerships, corporate partnerships… The United States and Qatar have partnerships far beyond the political and security relationships that people do see in the newspaper every day. We see this week as a chance to have some fun – a chance for the business community to get out there and show off what they’ve got and for people to come and enjoy everything they like about America! QH: What are some of the activities that will be held throughout the eight days? DSS: Discover America Week starts off with a beauty event – a beauty breakfast. We will also have an education fair, fashion exhibits, and a seminar on doing business in the United States. We’ve got an award-winning American producer of documentaries coming here doing a film showcase at the Museum of Islamic Art in cooperation with the Doha Film Institute – and that’s exciting as we’ll be showing his film. Coming from Los Angeles, I’m particularly excited about anything that involves film.

There’s new music from Jazz at Lincoln Center Doha and, slightly less entertaining but just as important, we’ve got a tax seminar for Americans. But it’s very important and people do have a lot of questions and it’s a chance for us to talk about investment and taxes and a chance to answer questions from the community. The Elvis Presley Fan Club is partnering with us to host a dinner event featuring Jerry Schilling who was a personal friend of Elvis’ so he’ll be talking about life with Elvis. Uber’s going to have a special discount code to and from our events, and Qatar Airways will have a special promotion as well. That’s one thing we’re always excited about –direct flights from Qatar to the United States and they’ve added so many new [U.S.] destinations this year and that’s one of things, primarily, that’s driving the closer relationship between the United States and Qatar. Also, we'll have a booth in Ezdan Mall about educational opportunities in the U.S. Several excellent American universities will have information for students and parents, and our Education Advisor will also be on hand to answer questions about study in the U.S. And of course, the big AmCham golf tournament is happening – a real treat for all golf lovers in Qatar. The golf tournament was so much fun last year and a really great way for people to get out there and network and enjoy the amazing Doha Golf Club. We are still finalizing sponsorship agreements and I am very grateful for organizations like Qatar Happening and the many other organizations who are supporting us for the second year in a row. QH: Why is it important to use initiatives such as Discover America that promote cultural understanding to strengthen ties between Qatar and the U.S.? DSS: Well, the United States is very far away. We just have a huge geographic distance between the United States and Qatar – so I don’t think the United States, initially, was a primary destination for Qataris for vacation. While a lot of people have studied there, I don’t think it was the first place thought about for vacation – or even for investment. But that’s changed thanks primarily to Qatar Airways and to Boeing, for making planes that can make it that far. So it’s really important now that people are able to visit the United States, study and do business there as well. This just deepens the understanding between our two people. If it’s investment for example…the Qatar Investment Authority just opened an office in New York – I was there in September and they’ve pledged to invest $35 billion USD in the United

States over the next five years. I think that is actually an example of the fact that at the moment the American economy is a primary destination for most investors from around the world. But it is not just investment in business, it is investment in people. We are so proud of the many Qataris who graduated from U.S. universities. And we want even more to know about our world-class universities. We have 5,000 accredited institutes of higher education in the United States and we want Qatari students to know about the very best. Every time I visit The Pearl, or to Ezdan Mall or Villaggio, I notice another restaurant, or a yogurt shop, and I’m proud to say so many of them are American. I was at IHOP for the opening – and was very proud. So there’s no shortage of things that people on both ends want to be doing together and a lot of those are fun exchanges so we believe that Discover America Week is a good way to showcase the relationship. QH: Is there currently a lot of Qatari investment in the U.S. right now and might that factor into why the U.S. Embassy and AmCham are targeting business development opportunities during the Discover America week? DSS: There is some – but there is always opportunity for more. Originally my home is Los Angeles, but my home since I became a diplomat 25 years ago is Washington D.C., and City Center D.C. –which was built with the Qatari investment, is just the sparkling jewel of the East Coast right now. It's filled with wonderful restaurants, great stores… and is a great example of what the Qatari Diar can do. I believe there is a lot more opportunity…and of course not just the Diar and not just QIA, but there are also a lot of other people and companies who are looking to invest their money in opportunities that will allow long-term return and growth. We are also looking for ways to bring American investment here. We have a lot of American businesses who are interested in expanding and growing here in Doha – a much more diverse portfolio of services and products besides oil and gas. And with this burgeoning population, I believe we have some of the best skills and technology to offer, whether in health-care, technology or education. There is a lot of opportunity here and we want American businesses to come here, make the necessary relationships, understand the environment and invest here in Qatar. QH: During your tenure as U.S. Ambassador to Qatar, how have you worked towards further developing the relationship between the two countries? DSS: Well, I actually think it was a banner year for

COMMUNITY the United States and Qatar. It started off with His Highness, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani visiting Washington D.C., which, you know… all the wonderful ambassadors in the world cannot do what His Highness can do. He is very talented and he left a great impression; his visit was wellreceived. Through the course of the year we have had a constant stream of major investment in the relationship. In October we launched an inaugural Economic and Investment Dialogue at the State Department in Washington D.C. under the auspices of the Secretaries of State and Treasury and the Qatar Foreign and Finance Ministers. This dialogue will be a framework where we move forward on all of the things we can do together as governments and in the economic and investment sphere in the years to come. In November we were honoured to host the First Lady of the United States, Michelle Obama, in Qatar. The First Lady came and spoke at WISE (World Innovation Summit for Education), on the importance of education for all young people. I can’t speak for her – I’m not her spokesperson, but the time I spent with her here, I can tell you she was just surprised and delighted by what she found here. Since then it has really been a constant exchange between our officials, the growing of the relationship – and then, on a very personal level for me, I hope one of the most important contributions I’m making to our bilateral relationship is on a human level. Just getting to know, meeting and being with Qataris and experiencing Qatari culture. I’ve attended peoples’ weddings and funerals and have had Qataris to my home and have been to their homes. I think those human relationships really are the foundation of enduring relationships. QH: In your role as an ambassador, what are some of the challenges you face – and also some of the highlights? DSS: In my capacity as the ambassador I’ve had the opportunity to go to experience so many rich activities with Qataris. This past National Day for example, I visited many tribal tents. Unfortunately, there are not enough daylight hours to visit all the tribes – but I made it to many! And I think just watching the joy of these families coming together in these cultural traditions that just date back so long and being welcomed into them and participating has definitely been a highlight. So as you get to know people…going to their child’s

wedding and visiting them after their daughter has had a baby…or even being with them in times of sadness when I show up at a funeral here, you know, and really understanding the family and who they’ve lost…it brings our political relationship to just a different level that matters to all of us as human beings and feels very special as an ambassador. QH: What message do you have for our readers to encourage them to come out to Discover America Week Qatar 2016 and learn more about the country, its people, and its opportunities? DSS: There is something for everyone. Whether it’s beauty, or Magnolia cupcakes involved – who doesn’t love Magnolia? – or any of our great food products and restaurants, or want to invest in the United States or study there. So even people who didn’t think they might be very interested in America might actually find its something fun to do. I think the main message is that there’s something for everyone and it’s going to be a lot of fun, so people should come out! QH: QH: What was the public feedback from those who came out to last year’s Discover America event? DSS: People loved it – I think it’s what inspired us to go bigger this year. Discover America Week is something we do in partnership with the American Chamber of Commerce – which is such an important organization for bringing American business-people together, making matches with Qatari partners and helping their way through. We couldn’t be doing this without AmCham, as they’re the ones who actually probably make it the most fun. QH: What do you hope your legacy to Qatar will be when it’s time for you to move on to the next adventure? DSS: That’s such a sad question – because that means I’ll leave! I love it here; I never want to leave. And obviously I’m not thinking about leaving yet but, like all ambassadors, you want to leave a legacy of closer ties. You know, when I’m someday forced onto that plane, I will leave behind relationships on a human level that will continue, and on the nation-to-nation level that will continue, because there’s so much that the United States and Qatar need to do together.

U.S. Ambassador to the State of

Qatar H.E. Dana Shell Smith

COMMUNITY

As told to Jorge Granda

American Beauty Breakfast

Venue: Al Jazi Gardens QH explores the heart of America Date: February 15, 2016 at 9:30 a.m. during the second annual Learn how to ‘glam it up’ and look like a model Discover America – USA Week at this beautification event featuring American beauty experts from Glow American Salon, Trinity Qatar 2016, bringing you the Model Agency, Diva Lounge Spa and image inside scoop on all the educational, Talent consultant Elisabete Reis. For more information cultural and business-related email info@amchamqatar.org. activities, workshops and events Jazz At Lincoln Center Doha happening all across our city.

he U.S. Embassy and the American Chamber of Commerce in Qatar (AmCham Qatar) are behind the organization of Qatar’s second annual Discover America – USA Week Qatar 2016. Taking place between February 15-22, the eight-day event will showcase American business, products, services and innovation – all in celebration of the U.S.-Qatar partnership and friendship. Here’s a taste of just some of what the public can expect.

Venue: The St. Regis Doha Date: February 16-22 Discover America Week Qatar presents the best of American jazz featuring the ‘New York Sound’ band and rich tastes of American cuisine. For more information, visit www.jalcdoha.com.

6th Annual AmCham Qatar Golf Tournament

Venue: Doha Golf Club Date: February 21, 2016 A true celebration of sportsmanship and friendship for all golf lovers, over 72 players will compete in a Texas Scramble on 18 holes at the Doha Golf Club. Amazing prizes include Qatar Airways tickets. For more information email info@amchamqatar.org.

Evening With Jerry Shilling

‘Me And A Guy Named Elvis: My Lifelong Friendship With Elvis Presley’ Venue: The Grand Hyatt Date: February 17, 2016 at 7:00 p.m. The Official Elvis Presley Fan Club of Qatar will host a dinner and talk with Jerry Schilling who enjoyed an eyewitness take on life inside the gates of Graceland from Elvis' music career from 1955 to 1977. He is a key representative for Elvis Presley Enterprises and a well-known entertainment consultant.

American Sports & Family Fun Day

Venue: Lulu, Barwa City Shopping Village Date: February 19, 2016 from 1:00 p.m. till 4:00 p.m. The American Sports and Family Fun Day will be a showcase of ‘traditional’ American sports including static and interactive displays representing basketball, American football/flag football, baseball/T-ball and cheerleading. Attendees will have the opportunity to participate in basic drills and movements of each of these sports. The ‘mini-clinic’ format for the event will aim to introduce the basics of how these traditional American sports are played.

American Film Showcase

Venue: Museum of Islamic Art (MIA) Date: February 18, 2016 at 7:30 p.m. The Embassy of the United States of America in Qatar and the Doha Film Institute join forces for a screening of Michael Rossato-Bennett's Alive Inside, and a master-class led by American producer Alix Madigan. In the documentary, Dan Cohen, a social worker and founder of the non-profit organization Music & Memory, comes up against a broken healthcare system as he attempts to demonstrate the ways in which music can combat memory loss and restore a sense of self to those who suffer from it. Among the film's subjects are family members who have witnessed the life-changing effects that personalized music has had on their loved ones, and experts including renowned neurologist and bestselling author Oliver Sacks (Musicophilia: Tales of Music and the Brain) and musician Bobby McFerrin (‘Don't Worry, Be Happy’). The director will be in attendance for a question-and-answer session after the screening. Tickets must be reserved in advance via the Doha Film Institute website at www.dohafilminstitute.com.

second Come out and feel the heat at the off! annual Discover America chili cook-

Doing Business In The U.S.A. Venue: Marriott Marquis City Center Doha Date: February 16, 2016 from 9:00 a.m. till 1:00 p.m. A half-day event focused on doing business and investing in the United States. Speakers will include representatives from the U.S. Department of Commerce’s SelectUSA program, U.S. tax and real estate experts, as well as representatives fromthe U.S. Embassy consular section and Global Entry program.

Chevrolet Family Day Venue: Qatar Racing Club Date: February 20, 2016 from 11:00 a.m. till 4:00 p.m. A fun-filled family day of American cars, food, children’s activities and baseball. Come out to the Qatar Racing Club for a chance to test drive the Chevy car of your dreams.

The Doha Marriott team at last year's

chili cook-off

Elvis Presley

COMMUNITY

AmCham Golf Hit the links at the ever-popular Tournament, now in its sixth year

TImes Square New York

Ali Bin Ali Travel Packages To The United States Venue: Ali Bin Ali outlet located in Al Sadd Date: February 16-22, 2016 Ali Bin Ali will be offering special package deals for travel to U.S. destinations during Discover America Week. Come and take advantage of this opportunity to visit America.

Qatar Airways Booth Venue: The Gate Mall Date: February 16-22, 2016 Come and visit Qatar Airways’ Discover America booth at The Gate Mall to learn about travel to exciting U.S. destinations. Check out special promos and offers.

American Fashion Display Venue: 51 East, Lagoona Mall Date: February 15, 2016 Come visit an artistic display of iconic American fashion labels at 51 East. Some of the most wellknown American designers will be on display.

VCUQatar Digital Shorts Venue: Ezdan Mall Date: On exhibit from February 15-21, 2016 Visit Ezdan Mall anytime during Discover America Week and view five digital shorts made by VCU/Qatar art students on the big-screen. In these shorts, students turn every-day events into imaginative scenes, using stop-motion animation and a green screen.

VCUQatar Faculty Exhibition

EducationUSA Booth

Venue: VCUQatar Gallery Date: On exhibit until February 23, 2016 The 2016 VCUQatar Faculty Exhibition provides faculty members at VCU/Qatar with the opportunity to present their creative research and artistic endeavours to the public.

Venue: Ezdan Mall Date: On exhibit from February 15-21, 2016 Visit Ezdan Mall during Discover America Week and drop by their EducationUSA booth on display outside of Carrefour, where you can pick up more information on studying in the United States.

VCUQatar Student Exhibition

Be sure to use the official hash-tags #USAWeek2016 and #DAW on social media. More information will be available soon on the AmCham (www.amchamqatar.org) and U.S. Embassy websites (http://qatar.usembassy.gov/) – so keep checking for updates!

Venue: HBKU Student Center Art Gallery Date: On exhibit until February 25, 2016 What does ‘home’ mean to you? First-year art students reflect on this idea and draw their interpretations from a diverse and multi-cultural perspective. See their creations at an exhibit titled Home presented by VCUQatar and the Qatar Foundation.

Education Fair Venue: Ezdan Mall Date: February 21, 2016 from 6:00 p.m. till 9:00 p.m. Several colleges and universities from the United States, including Georgetown University Qatar, Northwestern University Qatar, Texas A&M Qatar, Weill Cornell Medical College in Qatar, Virginia Commonwealth University Qatar, and Carnegie Mellon University Qatar, will be on hand to answer questions about academic programs and how to apply. The U.S. Embassy Education Advisor will be at the fair to answer questions about applying to schools in the United States. Entrance is free and open to the public.

COMMUNITY

By Laura Wrede Images courtesy of Alistair Crighton

During the whole month of February, the annual Al Galayel Championship of Hunting will be held for the fifth time at Al Areeq Reserve, southwest of Doha, close to the Saudi border. The first competition of its kind to follow traditional Arab hunting practices without the use of modern techniques or technology, it continues to draw falconry competitors from around the world. QH heads to the desert to earn our wings.

rabs were pioneers in using natural resources and practicing a sustainable way of hunting. They captured passage falcons during their autumn migration, manned them and trained them to hunt. Falcons were mainly used to hunt quarry like the houbara bustard or the stone curlew that also arrived during the same time. The hunting would continue throughout the winter months and before the summer the falcons would be released to return back on their migration path and be able to breed.

After capturing a wild falcon, the falconer would place jesses (leg straps) onto the falcon and tether it to a perch or to the glove to start manning (training) it. This includes being accustomed to people as well as their surroundings. During this time the falcon would also be trained to wear the hood ‘burka’. The hood, invented by Arabs, is a shield against the various visual stimuli, ensuring they are not distracted or alarmed. Once the falcon is manned the training to the lure –an object with feathers imitating prey, can begin. The falcon is released to its first free flight without jesses and called back to the lure, swung by the falconer. When the falcon is successfully retrieved, it is ready to hunt. While falconry exists practically all over the world, it’s deeply-rooted in the Arabic culture through the links of local traditions and Islam, where it was able to endure for hundreds of years consistently. In other countries, falconry has been more vulnerable due to political change and restrictive legislation. In the old days the primary reason for hunting was food, today however it is more the purpose to keep the tradition alive as a cultural legacy. In recent decades, captive bred falcons have been exported to Arabian countries, including non-native species such as the gyrfalcon, as well as hybrids –different falcon species, such as the gyr-peregrine. Apart from that, falconers use telemetry and GPS to track their falcons in case they are lost – drones, airplanes and other technological gadgets to train their falcons to best conditions. Sophisticated 4x4 off-road vehicles have replaced the camels and the horses as a means of transport.

In Qatar’s Al Galayel, an over 900 square-kilometre marvelous nature reserve, each team hunts by the traditions of their forefathers, without the use of any modern technology. All participants need to set up their own Arabic tent ‘bayt shahar’, take care of their camels, horses, falcons and salukis and hunt with them, without the use of telemetry, GPS, mobile phones, or cars. Only the two most common falcon species used in the Arabian Peninsula, are allowed to enter Al Galayel, the saker (falco cherrug) or ‘hurr’

old would hunt, Much like the Bedouin tribes of do the same – using competitors at Al Galayel must generations the old ways that have sustained

A falcon latches on to a recent kill

Author Laura Wrede rests with her falcon

in Arabic, and the peregrine (falco peregrinus), or ‘shaheen’, which must be captured from the wild, and cannot be captive-bred in order to respect the traditions. Al Galayel ensures that the cultural legacy of the Bedouin lifestyle lives and thrives. During the whole competition, a total of four rounds, each with four teams, composed of six to eight members, enter the hunting competition for a total of four days. The winning team of each of these rounds enters into the final round. Points are given to the prey that is hunted. A gazelle, or ‘dhabi’, obtains 30 points, a houbara bustard 20 points and a stone curlew, or ‘karawan’, ten points. While the reserve is not open to the public, all teams can be followed every day on TV. A lot about the traditional culture can be learned, while the teams work together, setup camp, hunt, take care of the animals, cook and socialize together as per their old customs. To learn more about the Al Galayel Championship of Hunting visit www.al-galayel.com. n

COMMUNITY

By Rabi’ah M.

Girnaas is Qatar’s premier gaming and tech-savvy company formed by three talented Qataris who have been working tirelessly to touch the sky. QH talks to Muneera Al Dosari, Co-Founder and Managing Director of Girnaas about its challenges, what makes it unique, and how Qatar’s IT scene is evolving.

he first of its kind, Girnaas has become a leading Qatari name in the world of technology start-ups focused on gaming and applications. With its humble Qatari roots founded in 2012 by a group of three talented and enthusiastic tech-savvy, young individuals – Muneera Al Dosari, Fatima Al Kuwari and Faraj Abdulla, Girnaas has bloomed rapidly into a unique company in the heart of Qatar. The name ‘Girnaas’ is an Arabic word that translates to ‘the peak of a mountain’ which, as Muneera explains: ‘It’s our vision to stay ahead of everyone else and aspire to excel.’ The

motive behind the inception of Girnaas, as Muneera describes it, was borne from “a simple frustration.” As Al Dosari points out, “the kickoff was mainly to pitch the idea as a part of an entrepreneurship competition which was organized by the Ministry of Information and Communication Technology (ictQatar). What brought us together was our similar background within the technology field along with [our] passion for creativity and games.” Each of the three founding members has their unique duties to take care of – Fatima is the Director of Public Relations at Ooredoo Qatar. She has a background in marketing with her Masters from Liverpool, U.K.; Muneera takes care of the business strategy, while Faraj is responsible for making use of this engineering expertise and background. Their combination of talents drew support in the form of local start-up funding, scoring them a place at the ictQatar Digital Incubation Center (DIC). Muneera emphasizes the fact that there was a great deal of frustration that revolved around the way global media were misrepresenting the Middle Eastern culture for starters. There was an excess of violence-oriented games which, she felt, were simply purposeless. “One cannot forget such games lacked quality,” she opines.

Considering the fact the Arab culture is very much rich in story-telling, it seemed like a promising idea to convert such tales into high-quality, interactive mobile games. “Games are capable of changing perceptions pertaining to our culture, [while] simultaneously they can present positive values which our children can refer to,” Muneera points out. While it may have come as a surprise for Girnaas to emerge out of nowhere and then bag popularity for its tech-savvy and know-it-all attitude in gaming and technology – but it certainly faced several of its own challenges. As Muneera explains, “There’s no doubt the gaming development industry is considered a relatively new concept in this region. It was certainly challenging back when we started off and still remains the same, [as] we are eager to hunt for talent who possess the respective experience in this field.” She points out that the team has been fortunate to acquire the talents of three other new members, namely Mohamed Al Khatabah (technical director), Hossain Hayder (art director) and Ahmed Mohamed Ali (communications officer). Girnaas is proud to hold a competitive advantage in terms of the quality of its manpower,

en's games Giddam was one of the first childr Girnaas released to the Qatari market by

The Girnaas creative team

building a team from the ground up who possess the necessary passion and vision to drive the brand forward, while the working culture of the organization is friendly, positive and open. Muneera is eager to maintain a smallsized highly-productive team, who can conceptualize high-quality artwork and stories, along with key-in game elements which help develop an immediate connection with the target audience for each and every game.

download charts in many countries. In addition to this, we’ve had successful partnerships with prominent entities using our services – for example, [the game] Go Fahad, which was an outcome of an extraordinary partnership with the 24th Men’s Handball World Championship. I would like to emphasize that the game, inspired by Giddam, focused on the championship mascot ‘Fahad’ and his journey with his friends around the world.”

In the last three years Girnaas has witnessed a fruitful success. As Muneera points out, “Our flagship product, Giddam, scored among the top

The Girnaas team has been lucky to receive limitless support from their families, friends, the Qatari community, and even the

government institutions that have extended their support for their adept work and vision. There’s no doubt the IT scene in Qatar is very much a start-up community; as Muneera defines it “the start-up ecosystem in Qatar is flourishing.” As for the future forecast, she maintains an optimistic stance, hinting that it will be worth watching Doha in the coming years ahead as it positions itself to become the Silicon Valley of the Middle East. For information on games, applications and more developed by Girnaas visit www.girnaas.com. n

Special Promotion

rm for a captive audience Doha College theatre students perfo

In the pursuit of science!

be nurtured in the classroom Creativity in all it's forms should

By Dr. Steffen Sommer, Principal of Doha College Images courtesy of Doha College

When it comes to nurturing the young minds of our next generation of artists, educators, scientists and engineers – nothing is so limitless in achieving their dreams as freedom of creativity. We explore the impact of exploration and imagination in the classroom and beyond.

atar, like all modern nations, is investing in its people. The Qatar National Vision (QNV) 2030 recognizes that a world-class educational system is essential for preparing students to take on the world’s challenges. Qatar’s commitment to education for its citizens is shown in the country’s continued involvement in the World Innovation Summit for Education (WISE), which has become a touchstone for new approaches to education. We, as educators, have a critical role to play if we are to help Qatar transform into a knowledge-

based economy. The quality of our teaching is of paramount importance if we are to help our students ‘become tomorrow’s innovators, entrepreneurs, artists and professionals’ as outlined in the QNV 2030. Children are individuals and each child has a different style of learning. Students can be visualspatial learners, bodily-kinesthetic, musical or logical. Others are considered interpersonal or intrapersonal, or linguistic. In the past decade or so, education has moved beyond the concept of each child learning the same material in the same way; best practice stipulates the understanding and inclusion of different styles of learning in the classroom. This has become easier with the advent of technology. As we understand learning styles it becomes apparent why multimedia appeals to learners and why a mix of media is more effective. It satisfies the many types of learning preferences that one person may embody or that a class embodies. Naturally, it takes creativity to develop resources that will reach across the broad spectrum of learning styles. Next month, Doha College will host an international conference in March on divergent thinking through creativity. The conference, run by

the Council of British International Schools (COBIS), will focus on educators who are using thinking and technology to transform their lessons. Doha College is an accredited member of COBIS, an organization committed to serving schools of global quality. I am looking forward to the presentations and the implementation of innovative and exciting strategies in our primary and secondary classrooms. Doha College is one of the oldest British curriculum schools in Qatar and I am extremely proud of our reputation as a world-class educational facility. Our vision is to be recognized as one of the leading internationals schools in the world. In terms of recognition, Doha College is delighted to have been invited to participate in H.M. Queen Elizabeth’s official 90th birthday celebrations this year. I have been approached by the Royal Household to showcase Doha College as a beacon of excellence in the Middle East, at the official celebrations at Windsor Castle in May. As one of four carefullyselected educational institutions, Doha College will be included in the commemorative book Highlights of the Reign of HM Queen Elizabeth II. This extraordinary invitation is testament to the outstanding staff, students and community that continue to build this exceptional school. n

COMMUNITY

By Diana Farid

How do women cope with the pressure and responsibility of jobs, school, family and children? Is there a secret formula for striking a work/life balance that allows us to strive towards being the best parents we can be? QH offers up some advice on how to avoid the burn-out.

ife is becoming so fast-paced and our daily challenges as mothers are just getting bigger. What makes it even worse is a perceived need for perfection in all aspects of life – we want to be superheroes in our jobs, super-Moms in our housework and super-efficient with our kids and in our social lives. New generations have been put under so much pressure that a mother’s role has been stretched to the max. No matter how hard we work, sometimes just getting through the day is a challenge on its own. Being a multi-tasker is the least requirement for a mother these days. Our responsibilities are compounded by the doublestandard within society, where the woman who decided to let go of everything in her life to take care of her kids is named a ‘housewife’ and the one who decides to defy all challenges and join the workforce is judged on leaving her family behind. Both societal perceptions don’t paint the full picture – being a ‘housewife’ is the biggest sacrifice a woman can make for her family, as she decides to put her personal life and career on hold. While the working woman has to constantly prove that regardless of being a career woman she can still take very good care of her husband and kids. So whether you choose to be a housewife or a working woman, here are a few tips on how you can improve your efficiency in parenthood and in life – no matter the circumstance.

Learn to say no to social obligations Refuse to follow the norm and do things that only satisfy those around you. Since giving birth to my twins, I made them my priority and hence I gradually stopped pressuring myself with things that won’t do any good to my family, but rather exhaust us unnecessarily. If there’s a gathering or a social obligation that doesn’t fit your schedule, just let it go.

Be yourself and embrace only what you wish to embrace This will make life so much easier. Don’t fall into the trap of parenting social pressure where you get affected by other parents’ opinions of raising kids and solving issues. Every kid is special in his or her own way – what works with one, doesn’t work with another – so accept that no one in this world knows your children better than you do. You are the only one who has the key to their best interests.

Planning your life is essential for any successful mother Planning makes both your professional and personal life so much easier. Planning doesn’t only include the day-to-day tasks, but also encompasses your life choices, your life priorities, and how you generally create an overall life balance. A mother can draw a pie-chart for all her motherly tasks and roles, and start deciding how much attention and time you want to allocate to each task.

Be super-organized For me organizing my house is a hobby rather than a task. I enjoy being creative in making sure everything is in its place. This is beneficial for everyone as it makes the family relaxed, the house a pleasant place to be, and creates timesaving efficiency when it comes to looking for things like toys, kitchen items, etc. A good way to start is by purchasing only the simple necessities in an effort to de-clutter your space and your belongings.

Work when the world is sleeping I’ve been doing this for the past four years and the impact on my productivity has been tremendous. It reminds me of the days when I was still without kids – it’s nice to work when you know that no one needs you and no one is going to interrupt you. I allocate three to four hours daily to my work when my children are asleep. I do this by either waking up early or staying up late at night.

Make the best use of the support system you have Trust me – this doesn’t make you any less efficient. If you have a mother or mother-in-law who can help you, make use of that and incorporate it in your daily routine. Also, day-care is a blessing as long as you carefully choose the right facility. Not only is it beneficial for the kids, but you’ll also gain a few free hours in the morning.

Discover your passion or revive an old hobby This ensures you always have time for yourself, which in turn will have a positive impact on your stress levels and help you regain your peace of mind. I resumed my writing hobby when I became pregnant and have kept it up ever since. Now, I have my own blog – Twin Mummy’s Diary – and have ended up pursuing a path in journalism. As a result of making time to nurture my hobby I find I have more energy which reflects back positively on my children and our household.

Never stop trying to be a super-Mom and, if you find it’s challenging, change the definition Be flexible with what you can do and accept your limitations –but still do your best as long as you can. I had to leave my full-time job, for example, in order to look after my twins – but I decided that I still I want to work, so I started a small project from home. I consider myself to be a super-Mom but in the way that suits my lifestyle – and so can you. n

COMMUNITY

By Jacqueline Bodnar

to be concerned about. The most common types of injuries are to the ligaments (which connect the bones together), tendons (which connect the muscles together), and muscles.

• All safety rules for the particular game should be known, shared and followed. It’s important, for whatever sport, that the proper techniques be used and the proper rules are followed.

it comes to kids playing sports. Some of the steps that can be taken to help prevent injuries include:

be encouraged to have fun, rather than feel a pressure to win.

• Making sure the coaches are first-aid and CPR trained. They should also know how to use all equipment and should always enforce proper rules when equipment is in use.

Organized sports can be good for kids, as they give them an opportunity to learn a game, grasp teamwork principles, get exercise, and hopefully have some fun. To that end, coaches and parents can work together to make injury prevention a high priority, and to keep the game safe for everyone involved. n

As a parent, there’s a good chance that while you’re raising your child, they’ll participate in some sort of Frequently, children experience strains and sprains, • There should be adequate breaks, and children sports. But what is less known which are injuries to the muscles and ligaments, from should never be told to continue playing if they stressing their bones, muscles, joints, and tendons. are experiencing pain. are the number of injuries that Injuries each year also include repetitive motion result. As you and your family head injuries (such as stress fractures), various heatPlaying It Safe out to celebrate Qatar National related illnesses, and damage to children’s growth Another way that children are injured each year plates. While some types of injuries seem to happen may not break bones or harm muscles; it relates, Sport Day, QH takes a look at more than others, such as sprains and strains, there instead, to the emotional distress of playing sports. how prevention is better than are measures that can help prevent them all. Often, coaches and parents put a lot of pressure to cure when it comes to avoiding win the game on their young players, stressing them The Solution out, sometimes to a point where the kids choose not accidents and injuries on the Parents and coaches can make safety a priority, when to continue participating in sports. Children should playing field.

ccording to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), in the U.S. alone 3.5 million sports-related injuries requiring medical treatment occur in children under the age of 15 each year. Whether you’re a coach or a parent, these statistics are alarming. The good news is that there are things that both coaches and parents can do to try to prevent such injuries from taking place. It’s a matter of knowing how you can help prevent them and making that a part of your game plan.

• Children should always have the proper gear for their sport, and it should be properly fitted to them.

The Problem

• Doing a warm-up and cool-down should always be a part of sports so that the muscles are properly warmed and stretched, which can help to reduce injury.

When our kids take those first steps onto the field or the court, we know that there is a risk of injury. Some types of injury occur more than others. The AAP reports that only about five per cent of the yearly sports-related injuries to children involve broken bones – but there are plenty of other issues

• Providing plenty of access to fresh drinking water while playing sports (and encouraging participating children to drink it frequently). Also, if they are playing outdoors, sunscreen should be adequately applied.

For additional reading, log online: • Five Ways to Avoid Sports Injuries: www.kidshealth.org/kid/watch/out/sport_ safety.html • Sports Safety for Kids: www.webmd.com/parenting/kids-sports-safety • Sports Safety: www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/sportssafety.html

Community

Listings

Community Guide Australian and New Zealand Business in Qatar Group

QH RECOMMENDS

6651-1892 www.anzbiq.org

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

Doha Players

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

Egyptian Women’s Association 5572-4171

QATAR TOASTMASTERS The Art Of Public Speaking

Feb 7 & 21: Looking to develop communication and leadership skills? Want to build your selfconfidence? Look no further than the Qatar Toastmasters Club. Master the art of public speaking in a supportive, multicultural group. The club meets on the first and third Sunday of the month, all year round. Meetings are at the Radisson Blu from 7:00 p.m. till 9:30 p.m. For more information call 5505-5275 and 5572-5293, or visit www.qatartoastmasters.net.

COUNTRY CONNECTIONS QATAR Relocation Services For Expats

Ongoing: If you’ve made the move to Qatar, it’s only natural to experience some culture shock at first. Country Connections Qatar is a local company that offers settlement and relocation services to help newcomers adjust to life in Qatar. With a range of options to suit every budget they offer a number of services that include assisting with accommodation and school searches, spousal support, city orientations, to providing information or necessities such as arranging childcare and medical appointments. For more information call 3353-7452, email support_ccq@hotmail.com, or visit www.countryconnectionsqatar.com.

DOHA MUMS Hotel Afternoon Pool Session

Mondays: Enjoy one of West Bay’s hotel pools every Monday afternoon. Children are welcome to enjoy the shaded pool and teenagers are also welcome to explore the private beach. Open to Doha Mums members only. Cost is QR 50 per person for accompanying husbands or relatives, while entry for children under 24 months old is free. For more information email rsvp@dohamums.com, or visit www.dohamums.com.

New Arrivals Coffee

Tuesdays: Landmark Mall. New to Doha, or new to Doha Mums? Join them for a caffeine jolt and great conversation every Tuesday at the Starbucks in Landmark Mall from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. RSVP’s are good to have, but not essential. The staff at the café love babies so bring them along. For more information email rsvp@dohamums.com, or visit www.dohamums.com.

DOHA SCOTTISH DANCING CLUB Dance Classes

Feb 8, 15, 22, 29: Doha English Speaking School. Those with an interest in participating in one of Scotland’s most traditional forms of dance can join the Doha Scottish Dancing Club for lessons. Classes are held on Mondays from 7:00 p.m. till 9:00 p.m. every month. The cost is QR 20 per class, with no additional registration fee or membership requirement. Bring soft shoes and a bottle of water to stay hydrated. For more information email dohascottishdancing@gmail.com, or request to join the club’s Facebook page.

IAID Modern Jazz For Teens

Mon, Wed & Sat: Hilal St., Al-Tadamon Signal, D-Ring Road. Modern Jazz covers the basic steps, vocabulary, and variations of dances commonly used in musical theatre and commercial entertainment industries. For more information call 4432-0974, email enquire@iaidonline.org, or visit www.iaidonline.org.

KATARA Beach & Water-Sports

Ongoing: One of the most beautiful natural beaches in Qatar, Katara’s private beach spans over 1.5kms. Beach-goers have a choice between enjoying a relaxed beach experience and diving into fun with a great variety of adrenaline-boosting beach activities. There’s water-skiing, wake-boarding, parasailing and more – including a kids play-area and evening gondola rides from 5:00 p.m. till 10:00 p.m. for groups of four starting at QR 300 for 30 minutes and QR 500 for one hour. For membership registration call 4408-1985, or visit www.katara.net.

French-Speaking Ladies Group 5559-7467

Indian Women’s Association 4442-4052

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

Red Dotters Qatar

5520-9294 Follow @RedDottersQatar on Twitter

Silver Dhow Association 4435-2598

Turkish Women’s Association www.twaq.org

Tuesday Ladies Group Email: tlgindoha@gmail.com

SASCOM: South Africans In Qatar

www.southafricansinqatar.netfirms.com

Canadians In Qatar

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

Food & Dining

Top Picks

Holiday Villa Trans-Atlantic & Pacific Dining

Sat-Wed: Lagenda. Treat yourself with a wide selection of international cuisines from Saturday to Wednesday. Give in to your Western, Italian, Spanish and Swiss-French cravings, or delight your appetite with Malay and Caribbean signature delicacies. From 7:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4408-4220, or visit www.holidayvilladoha.com.

Doha Marriott Street Food

Thursdays: Thursday nights just got even better at Doha Marriott’s new street food offering! For only QR 335 per person including unlimited beverages, enjoy a selection of your favourite foods from the streets of India, Southeast Asia, Mexico and more. Let the sizzle and aroma of the live cooking stations entice your senses, bringing back memories of faraway places. For more information call 4429-8499.

The Grand Hyatt Love-Boat Brunch

Feb 12: The Grill. Hop on board for a special loveboat brunch at The Grill from 12:30 p.m. till 3:30 p.m. Soft beverage package is QR 305, while the special beverage package is QR 420. For more information call 4448-1240, or 7798-2400.

The Four Seasons Buffet Business Lunch

InterContinental Doha The City Love Squared!

Feb 14: The Square. Celebrate Valentine’s Day with your loved ones at The Square and join their photo-booth to make it a night to remember. Enjoy an international buffet dinner and let the chefs present you with their Valentine’s touches and culinary passion. QR 255 inclusive of soft beverage package, or QR 355 inclusive of selected house beverages. For more information call 4015-8888, or email doharestaurants@ihg.com.

Sat-Thurs: Elements. The go-to restaurant for your weekday buffet lunch or business lunch, experience a delicious range of four different cuisines –Asian, seafood, Arabic and Indian. You will certainly satisfy your palate. In a hurry? Try the business lunch which includes one visit to the salad bar along with a selection of simple and composed salads or a warm soup, choose your main course from a selection of five dishes and finish with one visit to a generous dessert corner. Buffet lunch at QR 175 per person including local water. Business lunch is QR 95 per person. For more information call 4494-8600.

Food & Dining

By Ashlee Starratt Photography by Jessie Palanca

We’re taking a bite out of Crunch Cantina, Doha’s newest health-conscious eatery now open at The Pearl-Qatar’s Novo Cinema. An original concept from Ahmed Hassan Bilal Group, clean-eating never tasted so good…

’m the first to admit – when I go to the movies there’s going to be a box of buttery, salty popcorn on my lap. And maybe a fizzy-frothy soft drink. Okay – and a box of chocolates! A bit embarrassing to admit on paper, as there’s no escaping the wanton gluttony…but what is it about sitting and staring at a movie screen for two hours that prompts us to shut off the part of our brains that controls our appetites? Crunch Cantina is about to turn that mentality right on its head. If you’re hungry, they figure, you might as well fill yourself with snacks that do a body good. Having opened early last month, this vibrant grab-and-go counter is offering movie-goers an alternative to the current barrage of cavitycausing theatre snacks. Proving that simple and non-processed is oftentimes the most flavourful,

Crunch has packed its menu with two dozen different varieties of fresh-pressed juice blends and smoothies, heaping salads to get in your five-aday serving of veg, and an artisanal selection of sumptuous sandwiches. Items are made fresh to order and, where possible, all ingredients are locally-sourced. The idea is to come hungry, give yourself a little extra time before the movie starts, and fill your belly with something hearty and wholesome. Or, if you’re feeling peckish after the film, then grabbing a nutritious salad or sandwich for takeaway will help you beat the bulge. It’s noon-time on an early weekday – just in time to catch the first matinee screenings of the day – when we pass by Crunch for lunch. Located on the upper floor of Novo Cinema it’s a bright space with an open-plan seating area that overlooks the bustling ticket counters and main hall of the theatre below. Its orange and green colour scheme invokes healthy – think green smoothies and fresh carrots. It’s a nice change from the usual barrage of sensory overload that can leave you feeling overwhelmed at the snack counter, as the clock ticks down before the opening credits roll and the movie begins. We start with some liquid vitamins and order up a slew of smoothie samplers, (with a green juice throw in for good measure!). You really can drink the rainbow at Crunch, with each smoothie and juice

creation more colourful than the last – though all are surprisingly simple and full of flavour. There’s the Blueberry Muffin – packed with fresh blueberries and banana and mixed with oats and almond milk; the Pearl – a pretty-pink blend of strawberry and pineapple with a dash of lime juice; the Spin-Off (my favourite!) – a healthy mélange of baby spinach, avocado and pineapple, and the Cucumber-tini, which is just as it sounds – cucumber juice with a splash of lime. All smoothies, juices and mocktails are packed with a full dose of your daily vitamins and each variety is tailored with a different healthy outcome in mind. For example, the Blueberry Muffin, with its dark purple hue is an excellent source of immune-boosting Vitamin B6, while the Spin-Off promotes a healthy digestive system balance, and the Cucumber-tini helps keep your weight down and your waistline trim and slim. Complementing its extensive beverage list is an equally wholesome selection of crisp salads (we love the shrimp quinoa!) and gourmet sandwiches served on healthful and hearty grain varieties imported by the German Bakery Company. We sink our teeth into a luscious assortment of fillings, including baked salmon and mashed avocado with cream cheese, a sweet and satisfying chicken pecan cranberry mixture, a creamy egg

Alfardan and Mr. Jaber man of AHB Group, Mr. Hussein L-R: Mr. Ahmed Hassan Bilal, Chair ting n-cut ribbo the urate inaug a Al Ansari, CEO of Novo Cinem

The Spin-Off. Seriously, go order

one of these ASAP!

‘salad’ with avocado, and (our favourite) the vegan spiced chickpea spread – an open-faced sandwich topped with a savoury blend of cumin-dusted curried chickpeas tossed with red bell pepper, dried cranberries, cashew nuts and garlic. Each sandwich order comes with a hearty side serving of fresh green salad – so there’s no excuse not to get your veggies in. However, Crunch also knows how to serve up a side of naughty with their nice, with some of the richest squares of comforting carrot cake and warm banana bread we’ve tasted since we were knee-high in Mom’s kitchen. Served with a velvety dollop of cream cheese frosting, they’re the perfect sweet ending to an already nutritious and nourishing meal.

Vegan spiced chickpea sandwich The Cucumber-tini is health in a

glass

This is guilt-free indulgence at its best, as all of Crunch Cantina’s menu is prepared with the health of its diners in mind. But when so-called ‘health food’ tastes this good – shouldn’t we just be calling it ‘real food’? In a climate where over-processed, fat-saturated, sugar-laden products have become the norm, we’ve forgotten what it means to eat clean and live stronger. Crunch Cantina aims to change our eating habits for the better – and that’s something we can all take a bite out of. n Crunch Cantina

– our favourite!

Crisp and healthy, Crunch's salads are always made fresh-to-order Drink your apples!

Location: Upper level, Novo Cinema, The Pearl-Qatar Timings: • 12 noon till 10:00 p.m., weekdays • 12 noon till 11:00 p.m., weekends • 1:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m., Fridays Average Meal Price: • QR 20-QR 30, smoothies • QR 15, mocktails • QR 25, green juices • QR 25, gourmet sandwiches • QR 30-QR 50, salads Contact Info: Call 4415-3289

Muffin Purple goodness: the Blueberry

smoothie

Food & Dining

By Ashlee Starratt Photography by Jessie Palanca

The Four Seasons meets the four Elements at its newest restaurant that finds its culinary milieu firmly rooted in nature. QH drops by to explore (and sample!) its essence.

arth, air, fire and water. Each element plays an indelible part in furnishing the food we eat; from the wind that carries the seeds of grain, to the rain that nourishes our crops and livestock, to the earth we grow from and the flame we cook with – without a single one of these element there could be no sustenance. It’s no wonder that ancient civilizations worshipped Mother Nature’s Earth as fervently as our modern society is today destroying it. It’s also why Elements restaurant is a refreshing reminder to slow down and be mindful, appreciating those very hallmarks of nature that make possible each component of every dish and their rich flavours across all cuisines.

layout, new colour scheme and a reinvigorated outdoor space on what’s easily one of West Bay’s most picturesque terraces. Moving through the restaurant on the way to our table, my eye falls on the fluidity of its floor plan. Retaining its open concept, diners still have the option of privacy in one of a collection of semiprivate ‘pods’, while deeper into the space the tables are spread out family-style with comfortable couches and cushions in rich autumnal tones. There’s a chef’s table adjacent to the Oriental station’s Arabic charcoal grill, and a lush lounge area to the left of the entrance where expert mixologists concoct a bespoke collection of beverages featuring house-made infusions of honey, dried fruit, smoked thyme and more.

And let us be frank – the offerings at Elements are memorable.

There are five unique kitchens featuring stations that take guests on a culinary journey along the spice routes of Asia and the Middle East. There’s the Oriental station which offers a variety of regional Arabic delicacies, an open-air Arabic charcoal grill, an Asian kitchen with sumptuous dim sum and dumplings available, a fresh seafood counter and Japanese sushi station, and the spicy heat of the Indian hub where the curries bubble and the tandoor grill is always aflame.

Four Seasons faithful will be hard-pressed to recognize the space that used to be Nusantao: Sea Kitchens. Tucked away on the hotel’s lower level, guests at Elements are greeted with a revived

Restaurant General Manager Frances Robinson explains to us that each area of the dining room is tied in with one element that uniquely represents its ethos – the bustling kitchen is fire, the seating area

with its décor of wood and metal accents is earth, the lounge with its liquid creations is water, and the outdoor terrace with its grey and orange palette, fresh breeze and soft beats from the DJ is air. As we’re seated, our host Asraf brings us the food and beverage menus to choose from. All dishes contain components that are representative of the four elements – from the molten spice of the Thai curries, to the airy lightness of their signature desserts, no detail has been overlooked when tying in the concept of Elements with its menu. To start we’re treated to some nibbles from their table-side cart service as Carl, our trolley waiter, explains the concept behind their distinctive Feed Me Now menu. Guests can grab small tapas-style sharing bites off the trolley while they enjoy a predinner drink – or they can order a la carte from the Choose Me Now menu. While serving a full buffet only at breakfast and lunch (plus Friday brunch) as the hotel’s all-day dining outlet, in the evenings Elements offers a lush menu for guests to enjoy at their leisure. While on Saturdays they offer a Set On Saturday menu with trolley service and unlimited hot tapas for QR 245. We sample bite-sized portions of tuna tartare on a bed of avocado and caramelized onion sauce, Indian tandoori skewers with fish and chicken, and a spicy sampler of Thai larb salad with minced duck, fresh chilies, coriander and shallots. They’re just enough to whet our appetite for the main event and

décor With its open kitchens and earthy the eye Elements pleases the palate and

an chicken Feel the heat with an order of Sichu

a great option for those seeking a small treat to tempt the taste-buds. For our entrées we scan the menu relentlessly – there’s a lot on offer and we don’t want to miss out lest we have food envy later on. We try to order items from each of the regional stations, but end up leaning heavily towards the Asian, Japanese and Thai offerings. We start with an order of crispy, Sichuan chicken in a spicy onion sauce, and a halfportion of Peking duck with traditional pancakes, cucumber, spring onion and hoisin sauce. The Sichuan chicken is tender, fiery perfection, while the Peking duck is classic Chinese street-food fare – skin immaculately glazed and crisp, with the toothsome crunch of the crudités harmonizing with the softness of the plump pancakes and the syrupy sweetness of the hoisin. Next comes a round of Elements signature dragon and samurai maki rolls, each artfully presented with big notes of flavour and packed with Cajun tuna, shrimp tempura, chili oil, spicy onion and garlic ponzu. We also sample the creamy-crunch of the wasabi prawn appetizer, and the fresh sour-sweet heat of the som tam green papaya salad – both standout dishes. The stars of the show this evening are two Thai curries that take home the gold-star for taste, creativity and comfort. The lobster red curry we ordered by way of Asraf’s recommendation, while the chicken green curry is an old favourite. The perfect balance of sweet and heat, the lobster dish is utterly moreish – unctuous morsels of crustacean are offset by the bite of red chilies, the silky texture of succulent ripe mango and anchored by the pungent notes of sweet basil. It’s an all-round winner.

curry Sweet and succulent Thai green

with chicken

We finish with an array of inspired dessert creations that run the gamut from a lusciously unique lemongrass crème brulée, to a sticky date pudding with a side of canary-hued saffron ice cream, to a rhubarb cheesecake with blood orange sorbet that struck the ideal balance between tart tang and satiny sweetness. Now firmly on our radar, Elements is a place we’re eager to return to – as its menu alone requires at least a few trips to fully sample its ambitious range. From the quality of the ingredients and attention to detail in service, to its inspired ethos and warm ambiance, it’s safe to say we’re in our element here.

Som tam green papaya salad

Elements Restaurant Location: Lower level, The Four Seasons Timings: • 6:30 a.m. till 10:30 a.m., breakfast • 12 noon till 3:00 p.m., lunch • 7:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m., dinner • 12:30 p.m. till 4:30 p.m., Friday brunch • 12 noon till 1:00 a.m., lounge • 4:00 p.m. till 7:00 p.m., happy hour Average Meal Price: • QR 55, wasabi prawns • QR, 50, Sichuan chicken • QR 140, half Peking duck • QR 85, dragon maki roll • QR 95, samurai maki roll • QR 45 som tam green papaya salad • QR 95, lobster red curry • QR 70, chicken green curry

Samurai maki rolls: art on a plate

Licensed: Yes Smoking: On outdoor terrace only Contact Info: Call 4494-8888

Lemongrass crème brulée

Food & Dining i lobster with pineapple curry Flavour meets colour: braised Oman

Seafood By Jorge Granda Photography by Jessie Palanca

Vibrating with diners, celebrities and Doha’s glitterati from the moment it opened, the W Doha’s Spice Market is inspired by celebrity Chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten’s passion for Asian street-vendor cuisine. With an ever-evolving caravan of special set menus, we’ve got our sights on February’s new Hook & Catch promotion. QH grabs our tackle.

t’s a sunny afternoon when we arrive at Spice Market to try their new Hook & Catch seafood menu that will only be available for ten days during the month of February. Spice Market is by far one of the best restaurants in Doha and – full disclosure – one of our favourites. Its vast space and spectacular décor is welcoming, energizing and undeniably dazzling.

The special menu on offer consists of three starters, three main courses and one dessert. It’s important to mention that the menu is designed to be shared and, consistently, surprise you. You may not like everything equally, but each dish is perfectlyexecuted and sensational in its own way. We start with teriyaki salmon sashimi, followed by crispy and succulent chang chun shrimp dumplings with a vibrant Korean chili sauce – the fieriest item from the starters. The crispy-fried soft-shell crab is surprisingly delicious, surrounded by an unexpected sweet sauce. Even though they’re not part of the set menu we order a side of Spice Market’s famous chicken samosas which arrive on the table with a lovely cilantro sauce. While some starters are more substantial than others, they all have a simple twist that makes each of them deliciously unique. Spice Market’s new Executive Chef Kim hails from South Korea and is adept at reawakening the flavours of any dish with simple twists of ingredients. For our mains we start with grilled sambal prawns with cucumber and minted yuzu pickles. The appeal

of this dish is that you can taste the smokiness of the grill, an undercurrent that happily intermingles with the depth of Asian flavours introduced by the cucumber and the pickles. It’s a winning dish. The must-try main course off the menu is the fried baby sea bass with black bean sauce and lettuce. Nicely coated and fried, the fish has a distinctive goûte. It remains as a mystery how Chef Kim delivered such a remarkable and flavorsome dish with equal parts crisp, light coating and buttery, melt-in-your-mouth flakes of fish – with not a bone in sight. Braised Omani lobster with pineapple curry arrives on the table as a last indulgence to tempt our palates. The lobster is exquisite, flavoursome and fresh. We’re all in agreement on its unequivocal taste-profile – though the sea bass is still the star of the menu. To end our feast, my companions and I are served another Spice Market classic –Ovaltine kulfi, with caramelized banana, spiced milk and chocolate sauce and, a miso caramel pudding. Though both desserts are outstanding, it’s difficult to select the best. Although one of my companions says that she would be happy if the pudding would be the

of spicy sauce Crispy filleted sea bass with a side

n sashimi Melt-in-your-mouth teriyaki salmo

Char-grilled sambal prawns

el pudding The best dessert in Doha: miso caram

last dessert sheâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d ever try. Assorted ice cream and sorbets are also available on the menu. Once again Spice Market delivers an extraordinary special set menu full of flavour and the best Asian ingredients you can find in Doha. If youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re a fan of both Spice Market and upscale Asian food, the new Hook & Catch seafood sampler menu does not disappoint. Hook & Catch Menu Location: Spice Market, 1st Floor, W Doha Timings: The Hook & Catch menu will be available for ten days during February during dinner service only. Average Meal Price: QR 250 per person Licensed: Yes Smoking: Yes Contact Info: Call 4453-5000 or visit www.spicemarketdoha.com

Food & Dining

iful Savoury and succulent with a beaut please presentation, the chererov hav will every palate

Photography by Jessie Palanca

Craving a balance of savoury and sweet for your main course? Mamig and Aziza restaurants’ Chef Zarmig brings a little of both to the table with a robust recipe for her traditional Armenian chererov hav. Chererov Hav (Chicken with Dried Fruits) Ingredients: • 500gms chicken breast • 100gms plums • 100gms apricots • 2 onions • 2 pieces of green onion • 1 piece eggplant • 3 garlic cloves • 5 Tbsp vinegar • 3 Tbsp oil • 1 cup apricot juice

• Salt, pepper and red pepper to taste • 1 cup rice • 150gms dill • 2 cups chicken broth • 3 Tbsp butter Directions: • Carefully butterfly the chicken breasts and arrange them in a baking pan. • Chop the plums, apricots, onions, garlic, eggplant and green onion and spoon the mixture into the centre of the chicken breasts. Fold to seal. • Add the oil, vinegar, apricot juice, salt, pepper and red pepper to the pan. • Bake the chicken in the oven for 25-30 minutes at 175 degrees Celsius. • In a stove-top pan, fry the dill with butter for few seconds then add the rice and chicken broth. Season the rice with salt and pepper and cook until fluffy. • Once the chicken breasts are cooked, transfer to a serving plate and present with rice on the side. n For more information on the restaurants of Chef Zarmig, visit www.mamigdoha.com and www.azizadoha.com.

Chef Zarmig carefully butterfly's marinated chicken breast

a freshly-

Food & Dining

The nice thing about brunch? You can start with dessert if you want!

QH: Would you go back? Why/why not? MA: Sure, because it’s a wonderful brunch option in regards to the location and the food served. QH: Favourite thing about the restaurant? MA: I’d have to say the calibre of the seafood offerings and the friendly reception personnel. med Al Akhras and his Contest winner Mahmoud Moha d Subasinghe wife, with Chef de Cuisine Prasa

QH: Least favourite thing about the restaurant?

Word Of Mouth Photography by Jessie Palanca

This column is part of a monthly contest where we send one of our readers to experience a meal in a restaurant. It’s our way of giving the community a voice in our pages. This month Mahmoud Mohamed Al Akhras sampled the spice route during a Friday Brunch at Sridan in the ShangriLa Hotel Doha. Here is his review.

QH: Were the prices reasonable? MA: Relatively reasonable, at QR 285 with soft drinks and QR 385 for premiere beverage package. QH: Describe the ambiance. MA: Much more than enough. The atmosphere was lively and the food plentiful. QH: Describe the quality of the food.

QH: What did you order? QH: Describe the quality of the service.

QH: Was there a special touch or flair to the experience? MA: Yes – the lovely atmosphere and friendly people.

MA: The quality of the food was excellent.

MA: We sampled many different items from the live cooking stations but were particularly fond of the grilled lamb and shrimp.

MA: In terms of food, our least favourite item was the couscous.

MA: Overzealous, with lovely girls and boys waiting on us.

QH: Could the overall experience be improved? If so, how? MA: Yes – if they could allocate a special place or corner for non-alcoholics, it would be much better.

For more information on Sridan restaurant call 4429-5000 or visit www.shangri-la.com/doha. 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.

Treat your sweetheart to a luscious dinner at any one of the city’s luxurious hotel restaurants. Here’s our round-up of the best offers to mark the occasion this February 14 – just don’t forget to save room for dessert, the perfect sweet ending! HOLIDAY VILLA Far Eastern Valentine

D’Chopstix: Feel the romance in a Far Eastern ambiance. Delight your special someone with authentic Oriental cuisine and make the night a little sweeter with a red rose and chocolates. From 6:30 p.m. till 10:45 p.m. For more information call 4408-4230, or visit www.holidayvilladoha.com.

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA Valentine’s Night

LA CIGALE Valentine’s Day

La Traiteur: Looking for the perfect gift-hamper for your loved one? Why not wander through La Cigale Hotel’s gourmet haven and select from a wide variety of heart-shaped chocolates, cakes and baked goods, or choose the most impressive flower arrangement specially-designed for the occasion. For more information call 4428-8803, or 4428-8820.

MARSA MALAZ KEMPINSKI Valentine's Ultimate Romantic Adventure

Private Beach Gazebo: Indulge in a five-course romantic menu served by a personal butler in the privacy of your own beach gazebo. QR 3,000 per couple, including soft beverages and a bouquet of roses for the ladies. From 7:00 p.m. till 12:00 midnight. For more information call 4035-5011, email restaurants.marsamalaz@kempinski.com, or visit www.kempinski.com/marsamalaz.

SHARQ VILLAGE & SPA Valentine’s Special Dinner

Paloma: Come to Paloma for a unique experience and dine with Chef Salvador’s specially-created Valentine’s menu, then dance the night away to their resident band Back To Back. Four-course set menu is QR 325 per person including a special Mexican beverage. For more information call 4484-4919, or 4484-4444.

Al Dana: Indulge with the one you love with a romantic four-course dinner for two. From 6:30 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. at QR 340 per person inclusive of welcome refreshment. For more information call 4425-6666.

KEMPINSKI RESIDENCES & SUITES Valentine's Dinner

THE ST. REGIS DOHA Love Is In The Air

Aroma: Their Executive Chef presents an exclusive four-course dinner menu paired with the majestic voice of Kéyali Mayaga, promising an unforgettable Valentine’s dinner in the tranquil and romantic ambiance of Aroma. QR 415 per couple for dinner only, or QR 695 per couple including a romantic table decoration, a surprise for your loved one, plus refreshments. From 7:00 p.m. till 10:30 p.m. For more information call 4405-3325, email restaurants.doha@kempinski.com, or visit www.kempinski.com/doha.

Vine: Enjoy a super-deluxe, romantic dinner at Vine with a buffet particularly designed to make your Valentine’s dinner an unforgettable occasion. QR 250 per person. For more information call 4446-0105, or email diningreservations@stregis.com

THE FOUR SEASONS Valentine’s Dinner

Elements: In the spirit of love and care, share the flavours and discover together a sumptuous seven-course Valentine’s menu to share between couples, specially created by the Elements culinary team. QR 600 including soft beverages, or QR 990 including signature beverages. For more information call 4494-8600.

THE GRAND HYATT A Special Night The Grill: Celebrate at The Grill for an unforgettable romantic dinner. Enjoy a five-course menu of finedining options prepared by Chef de Cuisine Martin Kretzschmar priced at QR 320 per person. For more information call 4448-1240, or 7798-2400.

THE RITZ-CARLTON Romantic Dinner

La Mer: From February 11-14, La Mer presents tailored offerings to inspire indelible memories.‎ Enjoy a night full of romance overlooking the magnificent city sky-line starting with a five-course dinner with optional grapes pairing. For more information call 4484-8512, or email rc.dohrz.leads@ritzcarlton.com.

WESTIN DOHA HOTEL & SPA

Valentine's Afternoon Tea Luxe Lounge: From February 12-14, indulge your loved one with a Valentine’s-themed afternoon tea and treat yourselves to a truly sumptuous experience. QR 199 per couple from 2:00 p.m. till 5:00 p.m. For more information call 4492-1555, email dining.doha@westin.com, or visit www.luxeloungedoha.com.

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

Food & Dining

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

QH RECOMMENDS

REGULAR PROMOTIONS ANTICA PESA DOHA ‘Pranzo All'Italiana’ Brunch

Fridays: Indulge in signature Roman recipes at this simple and classic a la carte ‘Pranzo all' Italiana’ brunch. Starts at 12 noon. For more information call 4035-5300, email info@anticapesadoha.com, or visit www.kempinski.com/marsamalaz.

Grapes Tasting

Fridays: A taste of four Italian grape selections plus one after-dinner spirit. QR 200 per person, excluding food. Starts at 12:00 noon. For more information call 4035-5300, email info@anticapesadoha.com, or visit www.kempinski.com/marsamalaz.

THE GRAND HYATT Italian Cooking Class

February 6 & 20: Rocca. Learn how to make authentic Italian food and dazzle your family and friends with Italian chef Marco Cherubini’s cooking class from 9:00 a.m. till 11:00 a.m. Chef Marco will teach you how to prepare different Italian recipes for QR 280 including lunch. For more information call 4448-1272, or 7021-8096.

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

SPECIAL PROMOTIONS DOHA MARRIOTT Q-Brunch

Saturdays: Restaurant Gallery. Doha Marriott is presenting the true flavours of the Middle East at their Saturday Weekend Brunch, offering traditional camel meat unique only to the Doha Marriott hotel. Enjoy a mouth-watering array of dishes including Arabic mezze, Persian BBQ, live shawarma station and traditional Qatari cuisine! Head over to their famous Restaurant Gallery and indulge in an Arabic-inspired menu with live cooking stations and other delicious cuisine from around the globe. QR 270 with soft drinks, or QR 375 with special refreshments. For more information call 4429-8499.

THE GRAND HYATT Sommelier’s Dinner

Feb 24: The Grill. Expand your palate of grapes! Enjoy a set menu dinner carefully paired with grapes on February 24. For more information call 4448-1240, or 7798-2400.

Veneto Promotion

February 4-13: Rocca. The restaurant will take Doha residents on culinary journeys into specific regions of Italy with its monthly regional promotions throughout 2016, kick-starting with the Lombardia promotion from February 4 till 13. Enjoy a special à la carte menu prepared by Italian chef Marco Cherubini, inspired by Italy’s Veneto region. For more information call 4448-1272, or 7021-8096.

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA Anti-Valentine's

Feb 14: Belgian Café. If you find yourself on your own this Valentine's day, dress to impress and bring your friends to revel in the joys of great food, refreshments and a little house music. Experience the Belgian Café at the highest level with a specially crafted Anti-Valentine's menu, their signature Belgian beverages and a vibrant atmosphere. From 7:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. For more information call 4484-4444.

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA THE CITY Be Part Of The Prime Club Mondays: Prime. Join the monthly Prime Club and experience the great menu designed by Chef de Cuisine Morad Benmchich. Don’t miss out on this fine-dining experience. Book in advance in order to be part of the 14 guests who will have the privilege of joining this table every first Monday of each month. Featuring a six-course set menu, perfectly paired with selected beverages for QR 900 and a six-course menu without pairing for QR 650. For more information call 4015-8888, or email doharestaurants@ihg.com.

BANANA ISLAND RESORT DOHA BY ANANTARA ‘Naan’-Stop Tandoori

Wednesdays: Azraq Restaurant. Enjoy an authentic Indian buffet serving tandoor cuisine, prepared and served at live cooking stations. The textures, flavours and expressive range of Indian cuisine are sumptuously brought alive. Diners can choose from a selection of seafood, meat and vegetarian Indian food options in Azraq Restaurant. From 7:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4040-5050.

Seafood Night Fiesta

Thursdays: Azraq Restaurant. Let your taste-buds run wild at Food Fantasy's spectacular seafood buffet at Azraq Restaurant. Situated in the middle of the sea, Anantara brings you the most succulent ‘catch-of-the-day’ seafood, where quality and diversity are the key words for an exceptional seafood buffet. From 7:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4040-5050.

Ultimate New Friday Brunch Azraq Restaurant. Every Friday at Azraq, savour a truly bespoke brunch experience with an endless display of the choicest seafood, grilled delicacies, live cooking stations and decadent desserts complemented with a captivating live contemporary band. Complementing the personalized culinary journey are highly-skilled mixologists preparing tantalizing beverages such as the signature Arabian Snapper mocktail. This fantastic restaurant welcomes families with children and has a children’s area designed especially for even the youngest discerning guests. From 1:00 p.m. till 4:00 p.m. For more information call 4040-5050.

CITY CENTER ROTANA Olive Oil Lunch

Sat-Thurs: Olive Oil. Enjoy their international buffet lunch selections from Saturday to Thursday for QR 149. For more information call 4445-8888, or email fb.citycentre@rotana.com.

Olive Oil Dinner

All week except Thurs & Sat: Olive Oil. Enjoy international buffet dinner selections all week excluding Thursday and Saturday for QR 185 for food only. For more information call 4445-8888, or email to fb.citycentre@rotana.com.

Carnivore Night

Saturdays: Olive Oil. The ultimate meat lover’s dream, Olive Oil offers a diverse selection of the most succulent cuts of meat with a special house beverage menu specifically tailored to complement each juicy cut. From 7:00 p.m. till 11:30 p.m., for QR 220 inclusive of soft beverages. For more information call 4445-8888, or email to fb.citycentre@rotana.com.

Business Lunch

Daily: Caramel Lounge. Break time has never been this exciting... If you need a boost of energy and a relaxing atmosphere at the same time, the Caramel Business Lunch is the ideal solution for the hardworking professional. They know that your time is precious so they’ve designed a perfect menu for you, a 30-minute express lunch including pasta, sandwich and decadent pastries selection. Take some time off your tight business schedule, or hold talks in an atmosphere of comfort and ease. For more information call 4445-8888, or email to fb.citycentre@rotana.com.

DOHA MARRIOTT Express Business Lunch

Sun-Thurs: Corniche Restaurant. It’s time to mix business with pleasure! Enjoy a light lunch in a bright setting at Corniche Restaurant with their new Express Business Lunch. With a weekly menu rotation, sample Mediterranean favourites and regional specialties with highlights including homemade tortellini, Oriental skewers and classic lamb flatbread. Delight in the carefully-selected three-course set menu together with an unlimited salad bar, all for QR 95. From 12:00 noon till 3:00 p.m. For more information call 4429-8499.

JW’s Steakhouse

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

Weekend Brunch

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

Food & Dining

Listings

CHOWKING Indo-Chinese Menu & Value Meals

KEMPINSKI RESIDENCES & SUITES European Brunch

GRAND HERITAGE DOHA Friday Family Brunch

Fridays: Aroma. Indulge in a boutique, contemporary European brunch buffet selection in Aroma. On offer is a variety of breakfast classics, salads and starters, along with roasts and main courses, topped off with delicious sweet treats. Children can enjoy with activities and a special mini-buffet corner. QR 225 per person including soft beverages, or QR 550 per person, including selected beverages. For more information call 4405-3325, email restaurants.doha@kempinski.com, or visit www.kempinski.com/doha.

Fridays: The Fish Market. For those who prefer to enjoy the pool or beach and always miss the brunch, they have an alternative for you – an indulgent Friday Late Brunch with all your seafood favourites alongside a beautiful sunset over the Arabian Sea. From 6:30 p.m. till 11:30 p.m. for QR 375 with unlimited house and soft beverages, freshly-brewed coffee and a selection of tea and juices. Kids dine for QR 160. For more information call 4484-4919 or 4484-4444.

Steak & Grapes Menu

Mondays: Mykonos. Every Monday Mykonos brings you the warm flavours of the Mediterranean grill to your table. Enjoy a variety of mezze with a selection of salads, starters and dips, followed by a mixed-grill platter and finishing with a selection of Greek desserts. QR 160 per person. For more information call 4484-4919, or 4484-4444.

Daily: Tuck in to the new flavours at Chowking with their delectable Indo-Chinese menu. Also, enjoy dinner for two for QR 70-QR 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, Holiday Villa Hotel: 4411-5225/5335

Fridays: Blue. With so much fun under one roof, enjoy the variety of their international dishes in a market-style buffet with your choice of grilled meat or seafood, prepared at the live cooking stations. Your little ones will want to spend every Friday at the kids’ play area, where they will be spoiled for choice with activities like a bouncy castle and mascot appearance in the exclusively-designed kids’ area adjacent to the restaurant. QR 220 per person. Children five-years-old and under enjoy a complimentary meal, while children between the ages of six and 11-years-old dine half-price. For more information call 4445-5555.

Sushi & Steak

Daily: Blue. Enjoy a sharing sushi platter along with your choice of US tenderloin steak. QR 215 per person. For more information call 4445-5555.

DOHA MARRIOTT Express Business Lunch

JW’s Steakhouse

Weekend Brunch

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

Business Lunch Sat-Thurs: Aroma. Experience their newly re-defined business lunch menu, brought to you by Executive Chef Vinon Yergu. Aroma offers a creative two or three-course menu by using fresh and locally-farmed ingredients. The finest business lunch in Doha is available from 12:00 noon till 3:00 p.m. QR 75-QR 95 per person. For more information call 4405-3325, email restaurants.doha@kempinski.com, or visit www.kempinski.com/doha.

HOLIDAY VILLA BBQ Themed Buffet Dinner

Thurs-Fri: Lagenda. Indulge in an al fresco barbeque-themed dining every Thursday and Friday. Enjoy a hot Mexican fiesta, or choose the smoking Hawaiian grill. From 7:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4408-4220. or visit www.holidayvilladoha.com.

Chinese New Year ‘Yee Sang’

Daily: D’Chopstix. Celebrate the Year of the Monkey and welcome amazing possibilities. Share the Yee Sang Prosperity Toss with your family and friends, and wish everyone good luck this 2016. From 11:30 a.m. till 2:45 p.m., and from 6:30 p.m. till 10:45 p.m. For more information call 4408-4230, or visit www.holidayvilladoha.com.

LA CIGALE International Cuisine

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

Sushi Mania

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

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA The Drunch

Greek Grills

Cheesy February

All-Month: Belgian Café. Enjoy the special menu of the month featuring cheese dishes and their famous Belgian cheese fondant. For more information call 4484-4919, or 4484-4444.

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA THE CITY The Business Lunch Sat-Thurs: The Square. Take time out of your busy work schedule and enjoy a three-course business lunch. The a la carte menu offers a wide selection of delectable starters and mouth-watering main courses, including locally-sourced seafood, prime cuts of meat, vegetarian options and a dessert. From 12:00 noon till 3:00 p.m. QR 75 with salad bar, QR 95 with salad bar and main dishes, or salad bar and dessert bar, or QR 125 with salad bar, main dishes and dessert at QR 125. A la carte pricing for all beverages. For more information call 4015-8888 or email doharestaurants@ihg.com.

Daily Theme Nights

Daily: The Square. Feast on an exciting array of international dishes every Friday, Saturday and Sunday evening. Then, Monday offers the best of the Mediterranean and includes authentic Italian, Spanish, Lebanese, Moroccan, French and Greek delicacies. Or, take a trip to Asia every Tuesday where Thai, Chinese, Japanese and Indian favourites take centre-stage. Experience the theme nights daily from 6:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. QR 180 excluding beverages, or QR 250 including unlimited house beverages from 7:00 p.m. till 9:00 p.m. For more information call 4015-8888 or email doharestaurants@ihg.com.

Cosmopolitan Thursdays

Thursdays: The Square. Celebrate the beginning of the weekend with dinner and refreshments with friends at The Square. Enjoy international popular dishes on the buffet from 6:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. along with your favourite house beverages. Priced at QR 255 with soft drinks, QR 355 with selected house beverages, and QR 390 with special house beverages. For more information call 4015-8888 or email doharestaurants@ihg.com.

Seafood Night

Wednesdays: The Square. Delectable locallysourced seafood is on offer every Wednesday from 6:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. Cold seafood salads, fresh seafood cooked a la minute at the live cooking stations, and an enviable dessert station will make it a night to remember. Priced at QR 255 with soft drinks, QR 355 with house beverages, and QR 390 with special house beverages. For more information call 4015-8888, or email doharestaurants@ihg.com.

HILTON DOHA Theme Nights

Wed- Sat: Mawasem. Indulge in a lavish family buffet, or taste the world with their theme nights. Wednesday is steak night, Thursday and Friday seafood extravaganza, and Saturday is their Asian night. Regular price is QR 250 with soft drinks, or QR 350 with special beverages. From 7:00 p.m. till 10:00 p.m. For more information call 4423-3112 or email doha. restaurants@hilton.com.

Mussels Promotion

Daily: Trader Vic’s. Indulge in your favourite mussels with a choice of three sauces with steak fries and one house refreshment for QR 99, or all-you-can-eat for QR 165. For more information call 4423-3112, or email doha.restaurants@hilton.com.

MARRIOTT MARQUIS CITY CENTER DOHA Brunch & Tunes Fridays: Crossroads Kitchen. Start your weekends out right with live tunes, an interactive international brunch buffet and activities to keep the kids entertained. Prices start from QR 245. From 12:30 noon till 3:30 p.m. For more information call 4419-6100, or visit www.marriottmarquisdohadining.com.

Sweet & Savoury Crêpes Daily: Quick Bites. Enjoy the authentic finesse of France with this delectable artistic treat. Choose from the finest selection of sweet and savoury crêpes at Quick Bites for QR 40. From 5:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4419-6100 or visit www.marriottmarquisdohadining.com.

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

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

Food & Dining NOZOMI DOHA Now Open!

Daily Except Mondays: Nozomi is the awardwinning contemporary Japanese lifestyle restaurant and celebrity hotspot travelling from the heart of London to Marsa Malaz Kempinski. Nozomi subtly fuses entertainment with dining. Its culinary style is best described as contemporary Japanese infused with European subtleties. Nozomi offers a wide selection of sushi, its famous black cod and tender Kobe beef, and its world-class lobster tempura and vegetarian dishes. From 6:30 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4035-5089, email info@nozomidoha.com, or visit www.kempinski.com/marsamalaz.

THE FOUR SEASONS Piatto Unico

Listings RED VELVET CUPCAKERY Cupcake In A Jar

Daily: Katara Cultural Village. Their new Cupcake In A Jar is a perfect gift for any occasion. Send any of these home-made morsels of happiness to someone special. Available daily. For more information call 4408-0700.

THE ST. REGIS DOHA Burger & Pint Night

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

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

Chef’s Table

Kanpai At Nobu

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

Daily: Nobu Doha. Sip, savour and enjoy happy hour with a selection of Nobu’s specialty dishes and signature sips, at special prices. From 6:00 p.m. till 8:00 p.m. For more information call 4494-8631.

Nobu Brunch

Fridays: Nobu Doha. The famous Nobu Doha is now offering an elite brunch with a wide selection of Nobu’s specialty dishes. Start the weekend with a sumptuous buffet from sushi stations to foie gras, oysters and the black cod with yuzu miso. Regular brunch at QR 355 and special brunch at QR 475. From 12:30 noon till 4:30 p.m. For more information call 4494-8631.

THE FRENCH OLIVE Business Lunch

Sun-Fri: Enjoy a succulent two-course business lunch from 11:00 a.m. till 4:00 p.m., for QR 50, or three courses with coffee and beverages at QR 85. For more information call 4444-4777.

Pastry Happy Hour

Daily: Enjoy a happy hour on breads and breakfast pastries from 7:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4444-4777.

SHARQ VILLAGE & SPA Friday Brunch

Fridays: Al Liwan. Unwind with friends and family and indulge in a luxurious buffet featuring the freshest seafood, Middle Eastern favourites and international classics. From 12:30 noon till 4:00 p.m. QR 325 per person including soft drinks, and QR 420 inclusive of selected house beverages. Children ages 12 and under dine complimentary. For more information call 4425-6666, email rc.dohsq.reservations@ritzcarlton.com, or visit www.ritzcarlton.com/sharqvillage.

Daily: Astor Grill. Book the Chef’s Table, get up close to the Astor Grill culinary team and enjoy the theatre of the kitchen! Chefs will create a bespoke menu at QR 390 for five courses, or QR 600 with sommelier’s selection. For more information call 4446-0105, or email diningreservations@stregis.com.

BBQ Night

SHANGRI-LA HOTEL DOHA Business Lunch

Weekdays: Yabby. Dive into a selection of the freshest catch and get hooked on the yabby-licious creations at QR 85 for a two-course lunch menu, or QR 95 for a three-course menu from 12:00 noon. to 3:00 p.m. on weekdays. For more information call 4429-5295.

Buffet Lunch

Sat-Thurs: Sridan. Enjoy your lunch break with ten live stations featuring authentic cuisine from the Middle East and across the globe for QR 99 per person. Saturdays to Thursdays from 12:00 noon to 3:00 p.m. For more information call 4429-5295.

Adults-Only Friday Brunch

Fridays: Yabby. Experience the first adults only Friday Brunch in Doha at Yabby from 12:00 noon to 3:30 p.m. for QR 320 including soft drinks, or QR 440 including premium refreshments. For more information call 4429-5295.

Ibn Battuta Friday Brunch

Fridays: Sridan. Follow in the footsteps of the legendary Arabian explorer and enjoy ten liveaction stations from around the world and live entertainment for QR 285 with soft drinks, or QR 385 with premium beverages at Sridan. From 12:30 p.m. till 4:00 p.m. For more information call 4429-5295.

Seafood Buffet

Thur & Fri: Sridan. On Thursday and Friday night, enjoy a seafood night with ten open kitchens for QR 210 in an authentic souq atmosphere. From 6:30 p.m. till 10:30 p.m. For more information call 4429-5295.

MÖVENPICK HOTEL DOHA The Great Sunday Roast

Sundays: Seasons. Every Sunday, Seasons celebrates the age-old family tradition of the hearty Sunday roast dinner. Bring the whole family and tuck into a rich buffet filled with your homemade favourites, from roast beef, to Yorkshire pudding with gravy so good it will transport you back to the good-old days at Nana’s house. QR 160 per person. Add QR 65 for an additional three refreshments or two glasses of house beverage. For more information call 4429-1138.

Taste The World

Mon & Tues: Seasons. Indulge in a colourful collection of international creations. Each week their talented chefs draw inspiration from many cultural cuisines to present a wide variety of authentic flavours and aromas from around the world. You will be spoiled for choice while exploring dishes from Asia, Europe, the Middle East and so much more. QR 150 per person including three refreshments or two glasses of house beverage. For more information call 4429-1138.

Jazz Marché Brunch

Fridays: Seasons. Experience the wholesome freshness of the all-new Seasons Friday Brunch. Inspired by the popular Marché theme, Seasons boasts an extravagant market-like concept with a variety of creative live cooking stations using only the freshest and most wholesome ingredients. Expect premium-quality selections of cheeses, roasts, sushi and desserts, not to mention a dedicated station offering a special beverage-of-the-day. Their live jazz band adds to the chilled-out vibe to ease you into the weekend. Kids can go crazy in their very own Kids Kingdom with a special kids’ buffet, face-painting, bouncy castle, games and much more to keep them entertained. QR 200 per person. Add QR 30 for soft beverages or QR 75 for special refreshments. For more information call 4429-1138.

ORYX ROTANA X'Press Lunch & Dinner

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

Tapas Galore Selection

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

Latin Night

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

THE RITZ-CARLTON The Backyard

Thursdays: The Lagoon. There’s no better retreat in the city than the lush and green Lagoon Garden to celebrate a longer weekend. The party invites guests to enjoy live entertainment while savouring a sumptuous selection of BBQs from around the world. The well-known MVM band will respect the multicultural spirit of the city while playing your favourite songs. What’s more exciting than having an outdoor barbecue with family and friends while the weather is nice? From 8:00 p.m. till 1:00 a.m. For more information call 4484-8000, or email‎‎‎ rc.dohrz.leads@ritzcarlton.com.

Friday Brunch The Lagoon. Bring all the family for a relaxing weekend brunch. Live music complements the delicious buffet of Middle Eastern specialties and international live cooking stations. Children have their own junior buffet and entertainment. QR 305 per person including soft beverages, or QR 425 for full brunch. Kids under the age of four can dine for free. QR 150 for kids ages 4-12 years-old. From 12:30 noon till 4:00 p.m. Last order for beverages is at 3:30 p.m. For more information call 4484-8000, or email rc.dohrz.leads@ritzcarlton.com.

RADISSON BLU Friday Brunch Hyde Park. This Friday brunch caters to the tastes of each guest with over 30 dishes from around the world. The hotel provides extensive children’s activities and games along with supervising staff that will take care of the kids while the adults are entertained by a live band. QR 170 per person for buffet-only, and QR 235 per person inclusive of special refreshments. From 12:00 noon till 3:00 p.m. For more information call 4428-1555.

THE GRAND HYATT Curry Nights

All You Can Eat & Sip

Wed-Sat: Rocca. Feast on unlimited amounts of Chef Marco’s delicious pizza and house refreshments, available Saturday to Wednesday from 5:00 p.m. till 8:00 p.m. for only QR 185. For more information call 4448-1272 or 7021-8096.

SHERATON DOHA Seafood Night

Wed & Thurs: Al Hubara. Enjoy a sumptuous Seafood Night in Al Hubara all-day dining restaurant with a lavish buffet selection prepared with the finest and freshest ingredients to tantalize your taste-buds. QR 295 per person inclusive of soft drinks, or QR 395 per person with ‘Top-Up’ package including selected beverages. Kids between the ages of six to 12-years-old receive a 50% discount, while children under the age of six dine for free. From 7:00 p.m. till 11:30 p.m. For more information call 4485-3000,email F&Breservations.Doha@sheraton.com, or visit www.alhubararestaurant.com.

International Brunch

Fridays: Al Hubara. Spend quality time with your loved ones while dining and enjoying an array of international specialties at Al Hubara all-day dining restaurant. QR 315 per person inclusive of soft drinks, or QR 450 per person with their special ‘Top-Up’ package. Kids between the ages of six to 12-years-old receive a 50% discount, while children under the age of six dine for free. From 12:30 noon till 4:00 p.m. For more information call 4485-3000, email F&Breservations.Doha@sheraton.com, or visit www.alhubararestaurant.com.

Churrasco Night

Wednesdays: Latino Steakhouse. If you’ve never experienced churrasco before, prepare yourself for a unique culinary experience every Wednesday in Latino Steakhouse! Churrasco is a Brazilian-style barbecue laden with mouth-watering spit-roasted meats cooked in a churrasco grill and served from a sword-sized skewer to your table. All dishes are accompanied by a wide variety of fresh salads, choice of two side dishes and desserts served from their buffet. QR 220 per person inclusive of soft refreshments, QR 320 with ‘Top-Up’ Package 1, and QR 350 with ‘Top-Up’ Package 2. For more information call 4485-3000.

Mondays: Isaan. The Thai restaurant offers an all-you-can-eat curry night. Every Monday from 7:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m., you can order a variety of unlimited curry to share, with your choice of fish, beef, chicken, mussels or vegetables. You can share up to five curries per round, for only QR 95 per person. For more information call 7021-8097.

Weekend Lunch

Chatuchak Weekend Market Brunch

THE TORCH DOHA Fine Steaks & Prime Cuts

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

Fri & Sat: Almaskar Restaurant. Chef Angelos has created a delectable new menu for seafood lovers in the city. Join in and experience the traditional aromas and taste of Mediterranean cuisine set in the most contemporary style. From 12:30 noon till 4:00 p.m. For more information call 4485-3000.

Tues & Thurs: Three Sixty. The restaurant introduces a selection of fine steaks and prime cuts served every Tuesday and Thursday including a Chateaubriand beef roast sharing platter, T-bone steak, Black Angus short ribs and Wagyu filet at Doha’s only revolving restaurant. For more information call 4446-5600, or email restaurant.reservations@thetorchdoha.com.

Land & Sea Night

Wednesdays: Panorama. From 7:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m., the restaurant features an extensive buffet of salads, appetizers and carvings. Indulge in a choice of main course from the a la carte menu, in addition to an array of delicious dessert selections. QR 240 per person including a welcome mocktail, still water, selected soft drinks and chilled juices. For more information call 4446-5600, or email restaurant.reservations@thetorchdoha.com.

Barbecue Bazaar Brunch

Fridays: Flying Carpet. Drop in for a sizzling experience and choose from a wide selection of steaks, Oriental BBQ, fish, and burgers. Included in the price is still water, selected soft drinks and chilled juices. Only QR 210, served from 12:30 noon till 3:30 p.m. A special rate of QR 98 applies for children under the age of 12 years-old. For more information call 4446- 5600, or email restaurant.reservations@thetorchdoha.com.

TORO TORO DOHA

Mon-Sat: Toro Toro is a creative blend of Pan-Latin flavours and one of the most successful and growing concepts of celebrity Chef Richard Sandoval. Toro Toro showcases the most authentic recipes from Mexico to Argentina in a vibrant atmosphere, giving to its eclectic and selected guests a full Latin experience including the acclaimed ‘rodizio’ experience. From 7:00 p.m. till 1:00 a.m. For more information call 4035-5101, email info@torotorodoha.com, or visit www.kempinski.com/marsamalaz.

W DOHA Pitcher Perfect

Sun-Thurs: Market by Jean-Georges. Enjoy signature Market by Jean-Georges refreshments served in pitchers with your favourite bites at this award-winning restaurant – all for QR 160. From 5:00 p.m. till 7:00 p.m. For more information call 4453-5135, or email bnfreservations.wdoha@whotels.com.

Burger Night

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

Sip & Savour

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

Business Lunch

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

Food & Dining Jazz Brunch

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

WESTIN DOHA HOTEL & SPA Global Cuisine

Daily: Seasonal Tastes. Located on the ground floor, Seasonal Tastes serves popular international fare and local Arabic specialties throughout the day. Featuring live cooking stations in the buffet line-up, an a la carte menu is also available 24 hours a day. For more information call 4492-1555.

Lobby Lounge

Daily: Luxe Lounge. This modern lounge located in the hotel lobby welcomes guests in a cozy atmosphere and a relaxing ambience. The outlet’s philosophy encompasses organic gourmet food and beverage offerings. Enjoy a choice of pastries, petit fours, chocolate pralines and a unique selection of quality coffees and a variety of aromatic and herbal Oriental teas. For more information call 4492-1555.

MARSA MALAZ KEMPINSKI Kempinski Breakfast

Daily: Sawa. Enjoy the restaurant’s 100 signature touches that make the Kempinski Breakfast the perfect start to your day! They offer a great variety of fine food, fresh juices from fruits and vegetables, yogurts, croissants and pastries, assorted cheese and cold-cuts, homemade marmalades, freshlybaked bread, egg and waffle stations and so much more! QR 175 per person, including coffee or tea. From 6:30 a.m. till 10:30 a.m. For more information, call 4035-5011, email restaurants.marsamalaz@kempinski.com, or visit www.kempinski.com/marsamalaz.

Kebbeh Nayyeh

Saturdays: Al Sufra. Kebbeh nayyeh or ‘raw’ kebbeh is a common Levantine mezze. It consists of minced raw lamb or beef mixed with fine bulgur and spices. Kebbeh nayyeh is served on a tray, ideal for sharing with family and friends. Enjoy it every Saturday evening and pair it with your favourite special regional beverages. Prices are a la carte. For more information, call 4035-5011, email restaurants.marsamalaz@kempinski.com, or visit www.kempinski.com/marsamalaz.

Waygu Grill Late Brunch

Thursdays: Sawa. Don't wait till Friday, step into the weekend with the Thursday Wagyu Grill Late Brunch in Sawa. Enjoy eight various cuts of only the best Australian Wagyu beef in the city, indulge in the live cooking stations, and ask for anything to be grilled to your perfection! Enjoy al fresco dining or mingle with your family and friends in the comfortable restaurant interior. QR 425 per person, including soft beverages. From 6:30 p.m. till 10:30 p.m. For more information, call 4035-5011, email restaurants.marsamalaz@kempinski.com, or visit www.kempinski.com/marsamalaz.

Listings Tandoori Vs. Wok

Fridays: Sawa. Tandoori ovens battle with wok pans over your appetite in Sawa! The buffet offers a large selection of curry dishes, ranging from traditional Indian recipes to curry dishes from Thailand, along with delicacies freshlyprepared in wok pans. QR 220 per person. From 6:00 p.m. till 10:30 p.m. For more information call 4035-5011, email restaurants.marsamalaz@kempinski.com, or visit www.kempinski.com/marsamalaz.

À La Carte Brunch

Saturdays: El Faro. Bienvenido a España! Indulge in a casual Saturday afternoon à la carte brunch with an array of authentic tapas and starters, unlimited choice of paella, delicious desserts and great live music entertainment. Continue the fiesta with the Hora Feliz one-forone offer starting at 3:30 p.m. QR 240 per person including soft drinks, and QR 380 per person including Spanish refreshments. From 12:30 p.m. till 3:30 p.m. For more information, call 4035-5011, email restaurants.marsamalaz@kempinski.com, or visit www.kempinski.com/marsamalaz.

Seafood Brunch

Saturdays: Sawa. Savour a premium array of fresh seafood delicacies every Saturday in Sawa. Spoil yourself with Gulf king prawns, mussels, lobsters, crabs, oysters and their unbeatable selection of sushi. Finish your meal with a visit to the sumptuous dessert buffet. QR 330 per person, including soft beverages. For more information, call 4035-5011, email restaurants.marsamalaz@kempinski.com, or visit www.kempinski.com/marsamalaz.

SPECIAL LISTINGS ASPIRE KATARA HOSPITALITY ASPIRE GRAND CAFÉ Breakfast Time

Daily: Aspire Park. Enjoy their new breakfast menu in the park, now made better than ever. For more information call 4449-3963.

CHAC’LATE Tahini Bomb

Daily: Katara Cultural Village. Enjoy hazelnut cake and tahini ice cream enclosed in a dark chocolate shell, garnished with cookie crumbs and fresh berries, and accompanied with mouth-watering, warm dark chocolate syrup. For more information call 4408-0733.

BURGERI Burgeri Bus

Daily: Aspire Park. The Burgeri Bus, a new mobile kitchen concept, is the first of its kind in Qatar. Follow them in selected locations across the city by downloading the mobile app from Google Play Store or Apple Store. Burgeri Bus is not available on Sundays. For more information call 4449-3958, or 3399-9100.

Ice Berry Tisane

Daily: Katara Cultural Village. Delight you palate with fresh orange and lemon juice garnished with slices of fresh orange and berries. For more information call 4408-0733.

SUKAR PASHA Fresh Menu

Daily: Katara Cultural Village. It’s Katara kashta time once again! Enjoy fresh air and a specially-prepared, sumptuous menu under the stars in one of their kashta located by the beach or the hills. Open daily. Advance reservation is highly recommended. For more information call 4408-2000.

HDC RESTAURANTS AT THE PEARL-QATAR Al Tabkha A fast-casual restaurant concept offering healthy home-made Lebanese cuisine in a family-friendly environment for dine-in, takeaway or delivery. They offer a Friday buffet for QR 95, falafel combo for QR 30, chicken shawarma for QR 20, daily specials for QR 50, take-away and delivery from QR 65 and dine-in breakfast set menus from QR 45, QR 55 and QR 70. Open daily from 8:00 a.m. till midnight. Located at Croisette 18, Porto Arabia, The Pearl-Qatar. For more information call 4495-3876, Ext: 5874/5875.

Burj Al Hamam Offers a wide range of Lebanese traditional dishes and fresh seafood specialties with breath-taking marina views of The Pearl-Qatar. Open daily from 12:00 noon till midnight, and Fridays and Saturdays from 9:00 a.m. till 12 midnight. Set menus start from QR 200/QR 300/ QR 400. Average meal price per person is QR 170. Located at Croissette 1, Porto Arabia, The Pearl-Qatar. For more information call 4495 3876, Ext: 1291.

Tse Yang An elegant, chic and high-end Chinese restaurant overlooking a breath-taking marina. Open daily from 12:00 noon till midnight. Located in Croisette 6, Porto Arabia, ThePearl-Qatar. For more information call 4495-3876, Ext: 2071.

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

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

Food & Dining

Directory

Blue Restaurant Grand Heritage Doha

INTERNATIONAL Nozomi Doha Marsa Malaz Kempinski

Spanish & Tex-Mex Aceite 4018-8894 Chili’s 4466-0663 El Faro 4035-5555 4429-5000 Fuego Ipanema 4419-6100 Latino Steakhouse 4485-3000 Oyster Bay 4446-0105 Paloma 4484-4444 Picasso’s 4428-1428 4408-7777 Rodizio Brazilian Churrascaria Salsa 4429-8888 Toro Toro Doha 4035-5101

ARABIC & LEBANESE Agora 4445-5555 Al Balad 4491-8692 4431-1818 Al Bandar Al Batross 4432-8888 Al Canteen 4433-6666 Al Mourjan 4483-4423 Al Sayyad 4484-7420 Al Shaheen Restaurant 4485-3000 Al Sufra 4035-5555 Al Sultan Brahim 4446-0105 Al Tabkha 4495-3876, Ext: 5874/5875 Al Tawash 4498-2002 Argan 4433-6666 Burj Al Hamam 4495-3876, Ext: 1291 Istanbul Sultan Dining Restaurant 4468-5089 Khan Rafouk Tarab Café 4408-0840 4408-1200 Kunafa Albisana. Layali 4431-0005 Lebanese Shawarma 4466-2616 Majlis 4448-1234 Marmara Istanbul 4436-2947 Shawarma Albisana 4408-1400 Sukar Pasha Ottoman Lounge 4408-2000 Tajine 4435-5554 Tangia 4434-3333 Turkey Central 4443-2927

Almaskar Sheraton Doha

CHINESE Chopsticks D’Chopstix Royal Bafilyon Ruby Wu’s Tse Yang Wok of Fame

4434-3333 4408-4888 4411-4458 4428-1428 4495-3876, Ext: 2071 4413-4772

Contemporary European Aroma Astor Grill Belgian Café Gordon Ramsay La Mer Market by Jean-Georges Nando’s Delivery Hotline Opal by Gordon Ramsay Panorama

4405-3325 4446-0105 4484-4444 4446-0105 4484-8000 4453-5135 4436-0606 4446-0105 4446-5600

FRench La Sahtaine La Varenne Le Relais de L’Entrecote Maxim Sormani The French Olive

4423-3333 4499-0680 4495-3876 Ext. 1411 4428-1428 4495-3876 Ext. 3222 4444-4777

Indian Biryani Hut Bombay Balti Chingari Royal Indian Royal Tandoor Al Souq St., Jasra Souq Waqif Saffron Lounge Signature by Sanjeev Kapoor Sukh Sagar Taj Rasoi

4464-1401 4428-1428 4428-1428 4466-6876 4444-6151 4432-3244 3325-8919 4019-8877 4431-9172 4429-8888

Al Hubara 4485-3000 Al Liwan Restaurant 4424-2888 Al Matbakh Rooftop Grill 4433-6777 Baraha 4447-0000 Blue Brasserie Restaurant 4472-2666 Choices 4402-3333 Corniche 4429-8888 Cosmo 4424-7777 Crossroads Kitchen 4419-6100 Elements 4494-8888 4446-5600 Flying Carpet Grand Gourmet 4434-3333 La Cigalon Restaurant 4428-8888 Lagenda 4408-4220 Mawasem 4423-3333 Nando’s Delivery Hotline 4436-0606 Panorama 4446-5600 Olive Oil 4445-8888 Pool Bar 4429-5000 Pool Grill 4494-8600 4492-1555 Seasonal Tastes Sridan 4429-5000 The Dining Room (Al Najada Boutique Hotel) 4433-6666 The Grill 4448-1234 The Lagoon 4484-8000 The Village Souq Waqif 3331-1558 Three Sixty 4446-5600 Torch Tea Garden 4446-5600 Vine 4446-0105

Italian Antica Pesa Doha Carluccio’s Cucina Di Capri II Teatro La Dolce Vita Italian Restaurant La Spiga by Paper Moon La Veranda le Vesuvio Paper Moon Porcini Rocca The French Olive The Italian Job

4035-5011 4495-3876 4419-6100 4428-8698 4494-8888 4436-7991 4453-5135 4485-3000 4408-1500 4016-6000 4484-8000 4448-1272 4444-4777 4428-1428

Opal by Gordon Ramsay The St. Regis Doha

Japanese Neo 4432-2508 Nobu 4494-8600 Nozomi 4035-5089 Oishi Sushi 4442-8989 Sakura 4428-1428 Strata Restaurant & Lounge 4015-8888 4467-5577 Sushi Minto Megu 4495-3876, Ext: 2101 4428-8888 Yen Sushi Bar

Mediterranean Aramede 4408-7777 Bistro Bistro 4428-1428 La Villa 4446-2222 Le Central Restaurant 4428-8888 Medi @ The Village 4444-4700 Mykonos 4484-4444 Sawa 4035-5555 The Cellar 4402-3333

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

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

Sukar Pasha Ottoman Lounge Katara

Maxim Radisson Blu

Bar Food Belgian Café Library & Cigar Lounge Madison Piano Bar Pool Bar Shehrazad The Irish Harp The Lounge Wahm

CafÉs 4484-4444 4494-8600 4428-8888 4484-4444 4428-1428 4485-4444 4405-3325 4453-5353

American & Burgers American Grill 4411-0188 Burgeri 4449-3958. 4466-0663 Chili’s Fuddruckers 4483-3983 Hardee’s 4467-8750 Johnny Rockets 4455-2792 Ric’s Kountry Kitchen 4443-7846 TGI Friday’s 4488-7008

Seafood Almaskar 4485-3000 Al Dana 4425-6666 Al Sayyad 4484-7420 Al Sultan Brahim 4446-0105 Fish Market 4484-4444 Harry Ramsden's World Famous Fish & Chips 4468-3231 L’wzaar Seafood Market 4408-0710 Pier 12 4428-1428 Yabby 4429-5000

Steakhouses Bentley’s Grill Fuego JW’s Steakhouse Le Grill New York Steakhouse Prime The Anvil Rooms Toro Toro Doha

4428-1428 4429-5000 4429-8888 4484-7412 4419-6100 4015-8888 4499-0685 4035-5101

Alison Nelson’s Chocolate Bar 4495-3876, Ext. 1311 Al Jalsa 4425-6666 4434-3203 Al Kut Lounge Allegria 4485-3000 Anima Gallery & Lounge 4002 7437 Arabica 4494-8600 Aspire Grand Café 4449-3963 Atrium 4424-7777 Atrium Lounge 4485-4444 Biscotti 4448-1282 4035-5555 Café Murano Caramel Lounge 4445-8888 Chac’Late 4408-2000 Gourmet House 4405-3333 Jones the Grocer 4407-7175 4436-1789 Le Gourmet Lobby Lounge 4429-5000 Luxe Lounge 4492-1555 Maya La Chocolatiere Landmark Mall 4486-2264 Villaggio Mall 4417-8132 MBCo The Gate Mall 4407-7130 Al Emaadi Financial Square 4411-7224 Monte's 4499-0689 4428-8888 Orangery Café Trottoir Quick Bites 4419-6134 Red Velvet Cupcakery 4408-0700. Sarab Lounge 4446-0105 Savor Café Lounge 4408-7777 Seasons Tea Lounge 4494-8600 Shisha Garden 4428-8888 Sky Lounge 4402-3333 Sugar and Spice 4411-4456 The Courtyard 4433-6444 The Drawing Room 4433-6666 The Lobby Lounge 4484-8000 The Terrace Lounge 4433-6555 Torch Café 4446-5600 Vitamine Café 4035-5011 W Café 4453-5353 Ya Hala 4423-3333

SPORTS

Top Picks

Qatar Tennis Federation Qatar Total Open

Feb 19-27: Khalifa International Tennis and Squash Complex. The top female players in the world will land in Doha this month to face-off in the much anticipated Qatar Total Open 2016. For more information visit http://www.qatartennis.org.

Doha Marriott Muay Thai Kick-Boxing

Wed & Sat:: Strengthen your full body with Doha Marriottâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s all-new Muay Thai kick-boxing class! Learn how to gain intensified strength, speed and concentration â&#x20AC;&#x201C; great for body strengthening and weight-loss, core strengthening and toning. From 6:00 p.m. till 7:00 p.m. Pre-booking essential. For more information call 4429-8520.

InterContinental Doha Pilates Sculpt

Tuesdays: The Bay Club. Get the best workout with slow and controlled movements in a series of nonimpact exercises using some toning balls, elastic bands and your own body-weight. The class helps to develop abdominal strength, lengthen the muscles, and improve flexibility and postural alignment. Members QR 30/non-members QR 50. From 9:15 a.m. till 10:15 a.m. For more information call 4484-4852.

Marsa Malaz Kempinski Watersports

Upon request: Numerous watersport activities are available at the private beach of Marsa Malaz Kempinski. , including MasterCraft boat rides, pedal boats, kayaking, wake-boarding, water-skiing and donut rides. Prices start from QR 70 per person. For more information call 4035-5555, email spa.marsamalaz@kempinski.com, or visit www.kempinski.com/marsamalaz.

Qatar Athletics Federation 7th Asian Indoor Athletics Championships

Feb 19-21: The 7th Asian Indoor Athletics Championships will kick off in Qatar on February 19 and it will come to an exhilarating end on February 21 at Aspire Dome. Be part of the action. For more information visit www.qaf.qa.

SPORTS

Shooting hoops at Katara

By Fathima Faaiza Feroz Selected images by Jessie Palanca Additional photography by Nadir Khamis

From dashes to walkathons, football matches to friendly faceoffs, Qatar National Sport Day is all about getting out and being active as a community. This year will be no exception, with a host of sporting, health, and wellness events happening across the nation. QH helps you plan your route to fitness this February 9.

The Pearl-Qatar

Al Gharafa

• Handball, ping-pong, billiards and bowling will be held adjacent to the Pearl Roundabout from 8:00 a.m. till 5:00 p.m., near the mosque parking lot.

• Sporting competitions for children at the Ministry of Administrative Development.

Katara • Join in a game of beach football throughout the day from 7:00 a.m. till 10:00 p.m.

Qatar Foundation • Tug-of-war competition at Awsaj Recreation Pitch 4 from 9:00 a.m. till 12 noon • Healthy Living workshop session by Dr. Shahrad in the Weil Cornell Medical Center from 10:00 a.m. till 12 noon. • Friendly matches on the beach volleyball court from 9:00 a.m. till 12 noon.

ational Sport Day is a public holiday in Qatar that aims to promote the daily benefits of a healthy lifestyle among its residents. Held annually on the second Tuesday of every February, this year’s festivities will be taking place from sun-up to sundown on February 9. It’s a day for family and friends to unite and gain awareness about sport and the benefits of regular exercise and physical activity. Qatar is one of the very few nations to dedicate an entire day towards sports, so make sure you participate in the abundance of activities on the go.

The Corniche

Here’s our round-up of major events taking place:

• Beach soccer in the sand pitch from 9:30 a.m. till 2:00 p.m. • Synchronized swimming for girls in the Aspire Dome swimming pool from 9:00 a.m. till 5:00 p.m. • Aspire Active fitness activities at the Ladies Club from 9:00 a.m. till 1:00 p.m.

The Sheraton Doha • Join their free zumba master-class for a 90-minute Zumba Fitness Party at 6:30 p.m. Participants must be over the age of 12 to take part.

• Taekwondo Federation activities and awareness session at 7:30 p.m. • Traditional Qatari games to be held at the Qatar Olympic Committee’s Sports Village at 4:00 p.m. • Basketball Federation activities and awareness session at 7:10 p.m.

Museum Of Islamic Art Park • Bubble football from 9:00 a.m. till 4:30 p.m. • Human foosball from 9:00 a.m. till 4:30 p.m.

Aspire Zone

Al Wakra • Learn about the benefits of sport through the awareness activities taking place at the Al Wakra Club. • Test your fitness by participating in a marathon at Barwa Village.

Mesaieed • Play squash at the Qatar Petrochemical Company Club Foundation. For more information on all activities, along with updated timings, visit www.sportday.qa. n QH Fit Tips • Did you know that with just one hour of exercise you’re protecting yourself against the cold and flu? Regular exercise helps boost the body’s immune system. • After a good workout, you continue to burn calories even at rest! For every 100 calories shed in the gym, you can expect to burn an additional 15 during your body’s rest and recovery phase. • According to a study out of Duke University in the U.S., just four months of regular daily exercise is as good as any prescription medication for boosting mood and sustainably reducing depression. Keep it up and not only can you live longer, but you’re quality of life will also improve with higher energy levels and mood-altering endorphins. • After a workout is the perfect time to memorize a speech or tackle a tough project – studies show your brain is operating on all cylinders after a bout of exercise.

shioned walk! The best exercise is a good old-fa

Group Hoisting the trophy at the AHB

t tournament annual National Sport Day cricke

kicks On your marks! The Doha Dash off at Losail International Circuit

e Body-building at the Cultural Villag

Warm-up aerobics on the Katara promenade

Sailing off The Corniche

Qatar Foundation Walkathon

Kids take part in a friendly football match at Katara

Doha Dash is Sponsored by Dolphin Energy the nal Sport Day one of the highlights of Qatar Natio

As told to Jorge Granda

The third edition of the Doha Dash will once again kick off at Losail International Circuit on February 9 as part of the Qatar National Sport Day festivities. QH heads to the side-lines.

rganized by PSG, the Dolphin Energy Doha Dash is one of the most popular events to be held as part of Qatar National Sport Day, with thousands of participants taking part each year. Up to 3,000 runners are expected to participate in the 2016 event, making it the biggest yet. The dash will once again be held at the world-famous MotoGP circuit at Losail. The aim of Qatar National Sport Day is to engage the population of Qatar in a healthy, active lifestyle through sport, and the Doha Dash offers the ideal outlet for the public to participate with colleagues, family and friends. Case in point? There’s something for everyone: a 10km run (new),a 5km run for participants ages 12 and over (QR 100), a 3km run for those ages eight

and above (QR 50), a 1km run for children, and a 1km ladies walk (both free).

The Races All of the races in the Doha Dash take place on the track at Losail, starting and finishing in the homestraight, with warm-ups for each race taking place in the pit-lane. 5km Race: This race is open to anybody age 12 and over and will see runners complete one full lap of the International Circuit. 3km Race: This race is open to all and is aimed at those who want to sample the experience of mass participation running – but don’t want to push themselves too hard. 1km Race: This race is predominantly aimed at children and takes place along the pit-lane and back down the home-straight for a grandstand finish. Race Day On race day the Doha Dash will be a bustling family event with a wide variety of activities. The large Festival Village in the pit-lane and garages will feature the following: • Live music • Have-a-go sports area

• Inflatable sports • Sponsor showcase • Children’s activities • Food and beverage options • Charity showcase The emphasis is on fun and fitness, and the Festival Village will have many interactive activities that visitors can come try for themselves. Post-race, participants are encouraged to stay at the venue and soak up the entertainment and atmosphere while enjoying their post-race breakfast To register for the Doha Dash visit www.dohadash.com.

Doha Dash Location: Losail International Circuit Date: Tuesday, February 9 Timings: From 7:00 a.m. Medals For: Finishers Suggested Spectator Areas: Spectators are welcome to watch the races from the Event Village Pit. Weather Conditions: Sunny with morning breeze.

Off-Road

Excellence QH gets behind the wheel to discover the power and drive of the superior-designed 2016 Mitsubishi Outlander. rt lessly combines sport with comfo The new Mitsubishi Outlander seam

ith new styling and state-of-the-art features, the stunning new 2016 Mitsubishi Outlander makes its Qatar début.

The new crossover model features an unprecedented number of important engineering and design improvements, enhancing the level of refinement and overall driving experience. From assertive face to attractive trail, and inside out, the new model has an eye-catching new design, coupled with a strengthened chassis and an updated range of safety tech, including a highly protective RISE (Reinforced Impact Safety Evolution) and intelligent electronic functions that help prevent frontal collisions. The new 2016 Mitsubishi Outlander embodies Mitsubishi’s new front design concept ‘Dynamic Shield’ providing a fresh, sleek look on-road. The bold new exterior stands out with a chrome grille and vertical chrome accents that border a pianoblack bumper treatment, for an aesthetic look and structural rigidity. The model also features LED daytime running lamps housed within the LED headlight module, as well as LED taillights that extend into the lift-gate and a re-styled bumper. Looking at the Outlander’s stylish yet functional interior, you’ll find surprising features that make every journey a joyful experience. A re-designed steering wheel, functional dashboard with userfriendly controls, new accent trim, improved seating comfort and premium finishes all give the cabin a more sophisticated feel. Mitsubishi Outlander has undergone more than 100 design and engineering improvements to boast an optimal driving experience. Body and suspension structural rigidity, suspension rigidity, re-designed suspension, electric power-steering, noise-isolating windshield and rear-door glass, sound insulation as well as engine compartment trim are characteristics of the new Outlander, expressing the promise of unparalleled SUV driving pleasure. “We’re excited to welcome the new 2016 Mitsubishi Outlander in the Qatari market as it reaffirms our commitment to the highest levels of performance,” explains Mr. Ihab El Feky, the General Manager of Qatar Automobiles Company. “With the numerous design and engineering enhancements it has undergone, the new 2016 Mitsubishi Outlander will appeal to all customers who seek value, quality, and safety.”

um leg-room the Outlander is the With a roomy interior and maxim the desert perfect vehicle for those trips to

For more information on the latest 2016 Mitsubishi models visit www.mitsubishiqatar.com.

SPORTS

By Rubina Singh

Now more than ever, we are what we eat. In a world that thrives on grab-and-go, sugar-stocked convenience food, obesity is at an all-time high. We explore how one Doha-based wellness group is encouraging us to take charge of our health with a look inside EVOLVE – Mind/Body/Soul’s Foodology Program.

hile healthy living should, ideally, be a long-term lifestyle habit, the month of February with its focus on the Qatar National Sport Day, certainly helps bring it to the forefront of our thoughts. However, with a myriad of nutrition and fitness packages out there, choosing the right one is a challenge in itself. So, at QH we decided to put one to test. The Foodology Program at EVOLVE – Mind/Body/Soul, which is available at B/Attitude Spa in Beverly Hills Tower and at The Grand Hyatt, stood out head and shoulders above others, so we decided to delve deeper into its foray.Its founder, Haitham Khalid,

believes that healthy living is as much about getting the right exercise as it is about what we eat, and it’s this belief that gave rise to Foodology. Its objective is to re-wire, re-charge and re-condition your way of living and your perspective to some of the most essential and often overlooked aspects in life –i.e., our mind, body...and soul. The team at EVOLVE work by the rule that in order to correct the basics, one needs to make a basic change. ‘We are what we eat’ is not just a cliché at EVOLVE. Hence, the journey starts with a discussion on current nutritional knowledge and thereafter encompasses the impact of processed foods, GMOs, hormones and other industrialized food changes. Delving deeper into myths about processed foods, the dangers of additives and what is currently happening in the food industry creates the awareness of how dense is the ‘food jungle,’ as dietician and wellness coach, Dina Labuschagne calls it. The difference between kilojoules (kJ) and calories, carbohydrates and their role in nutrition, types of fats, healthy sources of fat and protein, cholesterol and foods that impact it are all a part of the knowledgesharing process which continues hand-in-hand with an exercise regimen that’s personalized around the client’s specific aims and targets. Label-reading, portion control and detoxification are as much a part of the interactive one-on-one discussions, as are the usual meal plans and gym routines one expects anywhere else.

Foodology, however, takes it a few steps further with its emphasis on individualizing the program according to an individual’s food preferences, as well as discussions on topics such as label-reading, micro-nutrients, super-foods and how to include them in your nutritional plan. “Wellness starts from within; to start feeling better, we need to eat better. And for this, understanding the importance of good nutrition is as essential to a healthy, strong body and mind as is exercise and relaxation. At EVOLVE, we take care of all these aspects,” explains Khalid, referring to EVOLVE’s extensive facilities at B/Attitude Spa and at The Grand Hyatt which includes gym, health-spa, and yoga sessions as well as nutrition guidance. “The program works on the belief that knowledge and understanding equips people to choose their path forward and to stick to it for the long haul,” adds Rowad Ehlela, Director of Business Development at EVOLVE, as he gives us a tour of the facilities. The Foodology program encompasses aspects of nutrition that often get brushed under the carpet. The program’s nutrition specialist, Dina Labuschagne, walks clients through a variety of topics such as cooking and lifestyle habits that play a crucial role in making sustainable changes – an

important aspect of the program. “Small steps at a time to reach optimal nutrition goals, is what we aspire to achieve with our clients,” she says, elaborating on the program’s concept. A qualified chef and personal trainer, Haitham believes a healthy mind dwells in a healthy body – and it was this belief that spurred the Foodology program. “The aim is to put your body through a regular exercise regime which involves the frequency your body needs, to really feel and respond to the benefit of your exercise over a short period of time, combined with our innovative Foodology course which will allow you to tie in the benefits of your exercise with a healthy diet,” he promises confidently. “After our ten-week Combination Training Program we will have enhanced a new and better you with knowledge, understanding and skills that will stay with you for the rest of your life.”

weight-loss is as much about As in life, success in fitness and

balance as it is consistency.

Indeed, this is no ordinary exercise program, nor is it merely a diet. Foodology is designed to truly address the issue of weight management and obesity at its very core, and that too in a wholesome, comprehensive way which contributes greatly to its success. Radical in result, yet simple in style and concept – certainly a recipe for success. n Get yourself on-track to optimal health by learning more about EVOLVE—Mind/Body/ Soul’s services. For more information visit www.evolvemindbodysoul.com.

SPORTS

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

QH RECOMMENDS

Boxing Fitness

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

LA CIGALE BoxFit

Ongoing: Ozone Gym & Spa. A stress-releasing workout, this 60-minute class uses boxing techniques that involve the muscles of the core, upper body, shoulders and hips to improve strength, endurance and agility. Complimentary for members, non-members pay QR 60 per class. Private classes are QR 200. For more information call 4428-8101.

LA CIGALE Explosive Cardio

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

BANANA ISLAND RESORT DOHA BY ANANTARA Diving Lovers

All-month: Even with the sun, sand and indulgence, diving lovers will be looking for something more. This is why Anantara is inviting all certified open-water divers to come and join in with their special offers. Day-Dive Experience: two dives with full equipment, QR 500 per person; two dives without equipment, QR 200 per person. Night-Dive Experience: one dive with full equipment, QR 550 per person; one dive without equipment, QR 400 per person. For groups of four divers minimum. Prior booking is recommended due to limited availability. For more information call 4040-5050.

Splash Surf Pool Happy Hour

All-Month: Cool down and hit the waves at Splash Surf Pool during their happy hour between 10:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. For every 30 minutes of pool time at QR 150 per person, guests will receive an additional 30 minutes complimentary. For more information call 4040-5050.

DOHA MARRIOTT One-On-One Boxing Training

Upon request: The Doha Marriott is now offering personalized boxing classes! Their highly-trained instructor Andrew will take you through all the ropes, offering individualized training. QR 160 per session or QR 1,200 for a course of eight classes. Pre-booking is essential. For more information call 4429-8520.

Boxing Class

Tues & Thurs: Enjoy self-defense that is safe and most of all fun! Great for body-conditioning and weight-loss, core strengthening and toning. Push yourself to the limit with this more intense and advanced boxing class that will make you burn more, sweat more and release all the stress built up after a busy day! From 6:00 p.m. till 7:00 p.m. Pre-booking is essential. For more information call 4429-8520.

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA TRX Fitness

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

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

MARSA MALAZ KEMPINSKI Fitness Classes

Daily: The Health Club. Numerous fitness classes are available, including body-pump, boot-camp, abs workout, Pilates, body-weight, Zumba, yoga, pushup challenge and more. Classes start from QR 85 per person. For more information call 4035-5555, email spa.marsamalaz@kempinski.com, or visit www.kempinski.com/marsamalaz.

The Gym

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

Tennis

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

RADISSON BLU Bulgarian Folk Dance Class

Tues & Sat: Cabana Club. How many different ways can you move? With more than ten years experience in Bulgarian folk dance, Velislava Metodieva is happy to share with Qatarâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s diverse community his cultural traditions of Bulgaria through its dance. Members: QR 50 per class and QR 350 for eight classes. Non-members: QR 60 per class and QR 400 for eight classes. From 7:00 p.m. till 8:00 p.m. For more information call 4428-1621/1622.

SHERATON DOHA Spinning

Ongoing: Fitness Centre. Join in Sheraton Fitness for spinning classes at QR 50 per class. For bookings and reservations call 4485-4601/4600/4609, or email HRC.sheratondoha@sheraton.com

Martial Arts

Mon & Fri: Fitness Centre. Join in Sheraton Fitness for aikido and kick-boxing classes at QR 70 for kids and QR 80 for adults per class. For bookings and reservations call 4485-4601/4600/4609, or email HRC.sheratondoha@sheraton.com.

THE FOUR SEASONS Cycling

Ongoing: Enjoy a 60-minute indoor cycling class using Activio systems to monitor your heart rate throughout the session. With an intensity ranging from 65% to 85% of your maximum heart rate, find yourself pedalling through hill climbs, sprints and many other challenging drills and exercises. Join this great low impact workout to boost your cardiovascular capacity. QR 60 per person. For more information call 4494-8888.

Vinyasa Yoga

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

Ongoing: Practice a 75-minute invigorating and energizing yoga style where movements and postures are connected to the breath. The session is complemented by deep relaxation to release stress and is open to all levels. QR 80 per person. For more information call 4494-8888.

Horse Riding

Special Abs

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

Ongoing: This is a 30-minute class that primarily targets the abdominal area, designed to increase the tone, strength and flexibility of your mid-section. This class uses various positions, stations and/or equipment to firm up your front, back and oblique abdominals. QR 60 per person. For more information call 4494-8888.

THE GRAND HYATT Fitness Classes

Ongoing: Jaula Spa & Club. Daily classes are available at QR 50 for Jaula members and QR 65 for nonmembers. Yoga classes are priced at QR 60 for Jaula members and in-house guests, QR 75 for non-members. For every five paid classes, one class will be offered free; for every ten paid classes, three will be offered free. For more information on other classes, days, and timings call 4448-1060.

Al Khor Riding Center 4421-8857 Al Samariya Stables 5525-7203 or qatarracing@gmail.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

online! See us rhappening.com www.qata

Walking

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

QH Sensations

Top Picks

Doha Marriott Manicure & Pedicure

Upon request: Treat yourself to Doha Marriott’s array of manicure and pedicure treatments including Shellac, nail extensions, gel nails and unique nail art done by their highly-trained spa therapists. Pre-booking is essential. For more information call 4429-8520.

Sharq Village & Spa Romantic Blossom

Upon Request: Six Senses Spa. Nothing says ‘I love you’ better than an afternoon of warmth. Pamper yourself and your beloved one with unforgettable experience. The journey begins with a 30-minute chocolate/rice powder scrub, which gently exfoliates your skin, and continues with a 30-minute chocolate cream mask, followed by 50-minute signature massage.QR 1,850 for couples, or QR 950 for individuals. For more information call 4425-6999/6995.

Marsa Malaz Kempinski Chocolate Body Wrap & Swedish Hot Stone Massage

All-Month: Spa by Clarins. Enjoy this romantic treatment in a couples’ suite. Duration of treatment is 90-minutes. QR 1,800 per couple including full access to all spa and wellness facilities. For more information call 4035-5555.

The Westin Doha Hotel & Spa Heavenly Spa By Westin

The Four Seasons Winter Magic

Upon request: The Spa. Enjoy a body-scrub followed by a hot stone massage and Marine Radiance facial that cocoons your senses.QR 1,325 per person for two and a half hour treatment. For more information call 4494-8802.

Daily: Treat yourself to a Heavenly Spa experience that awakens your senses. From invigorating massages to access to the Westin Workout Fitness Studio, as well as a selection of treatments specifically designed for men or your little ones, guests are certain to leave looking and feeling their best. Be the first to discover Doha’s downtown sanctuary and enjoy introductory membership fees from only QR 7,000 for six months on enrollment before March 31. For more information call 4492-1555.

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QH Sensations By Ashlee Starratt Selected photography by Jessie Palanca

What would you do if you really knew what was going on inside your body when it comes to your health? Knowledge is power and with it we have the ability to take control of our lives on the road to wellness. B/Attitude Doha is offering the key to this empowerment with their new D/CODE wellness program, giving us a glimpse inside our unique genetic makeup.

hat would you do if you really knew what was going on inside your body when it comes to your health? Knowledge is power and with it we have the ability to take control of our lives on the road to wellness. B/Attitude Doha is offering the key to this empowerment with their new D/CODE wellness program, giving us a glimpse inside our unique genetic makeup. Have you ever been afraid of going to the doctor because you don’t really want to know what might lie beneath those peskiest of symptoms? More than a few of us have what’s known as ‘white coat syndrome’ – our blood pressure goes up, our palms sweat and our anxiety peaks when our doctor sits down in front of us with our chart. But, ten times out of ten, knowledge is better than ignorance – and as the saying goes, the truth will set you free. The same principle of knowledge as power applies to our lifestyle habits as well, acting as (hopefully!) a catalyst for change. B/Attitude Doha has launched a

on your One small saliva sample and you're ic code way to unlocking your body's genet

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new program that’s reminding us that the control has always been in our hands – backed up by irrefutable genetic facts. Called D/CODE, it takes a look inside 16 different DNA markers targeting weight-loss that relate to absorption and metabolism, insulin sensitivity, feeding behaviour patterns, circadian sleep-cycle rhythms, addictions and over-eating. It’s an eye-opening and, quite possibly, sobering look at the genetics that drive us toward certain lifestyle habits and risks for health problems down the road. And though we can’t argue with what’s programmed into our DNA, we can take steps through willpower and lifestyle changes towards suppressing some of our worst hereditary glitches. It all starts with a sample. I arrive at B/Attitude to meet with Tajana Trtanj, a wellness coach and General Manager of the company, who walks me through the consultation process. B/Attitude has partnered with the experts at Nordic Laboratories in Denmark who run a full analysis on each individual

test kit, and provides a personalized, user-friendly information package that includes test results and interpretation of each DNA outcome, calculations for an exercise plan tailored to your results, and bespoke meal plan information. After the consultation, my mouth is swabbed for a saliva sample which will be packaged and sent to the lab. It’s best to note that you shouldn’t have anything to eat or drink for at least an hour prior to your swab as any residue in the mouth can lead to inconclusive results. It takes between two to three weeks for your results to come back and all information is confidential. The only people who have access to your file are you and the wellness coach who takes you through the outcomes. A certified kinesiologist with 15 years experience in the health and fitness industry, Tajana's been studying the benefits of genetic analysis on her clients for the last several years with positive results.

General Consulting with B/Attitude Doha Manager Tajana Trtanj

“Though our genes are sending us a message, we can change the outcomes with our lifestyle – by our food, by exercise. You can never change your genes, but you can do something to help them and this is what the D/CODE program arms us with – awareness,” Tajana explains. So what revelations came from my DNA results? Well, let’s just say they confirmed my already sneaking suspicions about the state of my metabolism and weight issues. I scored high for genetic markers that impact my fat breakdown and absorption, which Tajana points out, means I gain weight easily and have more difficulty losing it. However, my DNA markers for exercise responsiveness have no impact – which means that my body will respond to weight-loss through exercise, though my slower metabolism means I have to work harder than most. Twenty-four MET hours a week in fact. What’s a MET hour? It’s a Metabolic Equivalent Task that calculates how much energy you burn during physical activity. My results analysis comes with a chart that ranks the MET hour values of various low-to-highintensity activities in order to reach my goal. Tajana also explains that due to my genetic marker for a higher body-mass index and fat storage, it's

recommended to follow a low-fat diet – and that even includes some of the healthy fats such as Omega-3. As per my report analysis and recommendations, salmon, olive oil or avocadoes are advised to be consumed in limited amounts, ex: a spoonful if needed, and to choose only white fish or chicken. For a surcharge, a customized meal plan from a Nordic Laboratories dietician can also be included as part of the D/CODE package for those who would prefer a structured regimen. I do feel empowered to some degree after my results consultation – though there were no massive surprises revealed, it did confirm what I feel my body was already trying to tell me if I only took the time to listen. Now, it’s up to me what to do with this information to change my life-style and reach my weight-loss goals. B/Attitude also offers clients a customized wellness program based on their test results, with sport and spa services that foster positive results. They also continue coaching clients throughout the process until changes in their lifestyle are fully adopted. Tajana is very upfront about the scope of the program –which I appreciate. She’s the first to point out that though this is science, this is not medicine they’re practicing, and clients should in no way come in and expect to find out genetic information for things like DNA markers for serious hereditary disease for example. This is all about wellness and what to do with the knowledge stored inside the very fabric of our genes that can unlock the key to weight-loss, boosting our metabolism and controlling our appetites. As she points out – some people can exercise all they want, but if it’s not in their genes to metabolize fat through physical activity then they will not lose the weight. Perhaps, instead, a change in diet is what is required to trigger their body’s DNA response – and vice versa. The D/CODE program package also offers an option for clients to have a bespoke skin-care line made for them tailored specifically to their DNA through ONE-GEN/O.1 – a personalized genomics cosmetic line by Prima-Derm Research Center in Barcelona. The biggest thing that I’ll take away from this experience is the fact that I can no longer lie to myself about having that last piece of cake or that bucket of KFC – now my mind has to be stronger than my body in order to overcome the cravings that set me back and to start pushing my slow metabolism into reluctant action. After all, this is my health we’re talking about – and you only get one shot at it.

D/CODE Program Location: B/Attitude Doha, 2nd Floor, Beverly Hills Tower Timings: 10:00 a.m. till 9:30 p.m. for Spa treatments Prices: • QR 2,500, one D/CODE test & results • QR 3,500, two D/CODE tests & results • QR 8,500, D/CODE test & results, plus 4 facial treatments and personalized ONE-GEN/O.1 product line

d to your ONE-GEN/0.1 products are tailore

DNA

Contact Info: Call 4412-2046, email info@battitudespadoha.com, or visit www.battitudespadoha.com

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QH Sensations

By Lynsey Riach

Home to six islands all with their own distinct personalities and different offerings of adventures and activities, Hawaii is a peaceful and historic land blessed with beautiful nature that will have you longing for longer vacation time…

like to think that green is the official colour of Hawaii...but then you smell pink and orange flowers, watch lilac sunsets, feel your toes in white sugar beaches and swim in the turquoise ocean and you quickly realize just why Hawaii is synonymous with bliss and a rainbow of colours.

The glisteninggolden mahi mahi

Floating all by itself in the middle of the Pacific, Hawaii proudly maintains its own identity apart from the U.S. mainland. Pretty much everything here feels on ‘island time’ – casual yet genuine aloha and fun. They don’t need to promote this place; it’s bursting with enough boastful beauty. Basing ourselves on magical Maui, where many Americans go to retire, while broke surfers who made it out here but didn’t quite make it back make a buck or two selling fresh coconuts roadside, Maui feels foreign, yet familiar. It’s the perfect balance of safe yet adventurous.

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This place is nature, and, it’s diverse. Oh, and you may spot a migrating 45-foot whale or two if you’re really lucky. Fans of the TV show Lost, will know it was actually filmed on several of the islands due to the varied micro-climates and interesting topography. Some poor locals even panicked and called emergency services when they saw the plane wreckage from the TV set. On Maui, accommodation is plentiful: from beach cottages to five-star resorts. You’ll need to navigate around this place so we hired a Jeep (as does everyone, just try and count them…) since we were keen to tour the winding ‘Road to Hana’ which, at 83kms in length, takes in jawdropping views, heart-stopping cliffs, plunging waterfalls, jungles, hairpin bends and you’ll cross 59 bridges along the way. It can take up to six hours to complete – partially due to the convoy of other Jeeps ahead of you, and also because you’ll stop every ten minutes for the perfect photo. It’s absolutely breathtaking. After a day on the road, stop off at Big Mama’s Fish House for the best mahi mahi dinner in town but you’ll need a reservation as this place is packed. Maui isn’t a small island but it has a small-town feel. Restaurants and shops are cute and quirky but they close early. Real island life exists thanks to the ‘mom and pop’ vendors like the Kihei Café, a tiny gem with a line stretching round the block and a very happy chappy welcomes you inside to take your breakfast-bagel order.

All roads lead to Maui

Maui's Kaanapali Beach

Kiehi Café

Big Mama's Fish House – not just another roadside attraction!

Standing on the sand on our favourite tiny beach (aptly called Secret Beach) I looked out to the ocean and let my mind wander; sea turtles floated on past the black lava craggy rocks, as skinny palm trees towered overhead and as I turn around a huge volcano reigns over Maui. Haleakala, rising 3,055 metres above sea level is considered dormant – but not extinct. If you can stand your ears popping on your steep drive to the top, then it’s worth getting on up there to see…snow. That’s right. Sand, snow – Maui has it all. At the peak on a clear day you can look out to neighbouring islands, clouds float beneath you and you’ll definitely feel a chill as the crater reminds you of something from the moon landing. On a clear morning, seeing the sunrise from the summit of Haleakala is an unforgettable experience and if camping is your thing, plenty of tour groups set up here for a night under the twinkling stars. To finish off your trip, you must visit a proper Hawaiian luau. With a few options on the island, we visited Feast at Lele which offers a full Polynesian banquet with matching grass-skirted dancers all set near the beach surrounded by tiki torches. With a floral lei around your neck, sip a fruity beverage and kick back Hawaiian-style – you’ve found bliss. Safe travels and happy holidays! For more information on Hawaii visit www.gohawaii.com n

Traditional tiki totems

Lynsey Riach is a qualified yoga Instructor living and working in Doha, normally walking her dogs, on her yoga mat, or on her travels. To learn more about her services visit www.andstretchyoga.com.

Akaka Falls

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QH Sensations

ore, a presidential South Dakota's iconic Mount Rushm legacy carved into the living rock

Words and selected images by Francesca Cruz

It’s where herds of bison roam the acres while the mountains keep their watch along the horizon. We venture to the American prairieland of South Dakota and plunge into history and nature.

here are plenty of places that come to mind when the idea of the Old American West arises. From Utah, Wyoming, to Colorado, they all seem to have plenty of fanfare, but one spot that might eclipse them—a state that remains under the radar, unless you’re solely venturing in the summertime to Mount Rushmore, is South Dakota. Think vast rolling hills, prairieland, and wranglers lassoing free-roaming herds. To set foot in South Dakota is to step back in time to a quaint era— visions of Norman Rockwell paintings come to mind—a simpler, more serene existence. This state, and its second largest city, Rapid City, is stunning Americana at its very best. Take Custer State Park and its Black Hills situated in the western part of South Dakota, about a half-hour scenic drive from Rapid City. This 71,000-acre state park is home to

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one of the world’s largest publicly-owned bison herd (1,300 to date). Each fall season, the prairie rumbles with the sound of a stampede as cowboys saddle up to bring in the throng. It’s opened to the public and held every year on the last Friday of September. One of the most breathtaking drives you’ll set your sights on is the landscape of the Badlands. With a maze of buttes, canyons, pinnacles and spires—you’ll almost think you’re dreaming it. Dusk here falls over the prairie in shades of tangerine, electric blue, mint green and golden cornhusk yellows. Wildlife abounds in the park, consisting of 244,000 acres of land; ideal for hiking, camping and just sitting still in nature and taking in all of its bountiful beauty. This is America’s heartland, and you almost feel like you should be witnessing it while on a wagon, wearing a bonnet and cowboy boots. It’s a thrilling sensation to lower the windows and let the wind blow my hair and feel the sun caress my cheeks en-route to Mount Rushmore; just a 35-minute drive from downtown where I found cozy lodging. Mount Rushmore is situated in the Black Hills and is considered a ‘Shrine to Democracy’. During the summertime it’s buzzing with people, but during fall and even early winter it’s composed and peaceful, with temperatures in the 50’s Fahrenheit (10-15 degrees Celsius). Sculptor Gutzon Borglum led the Mount Rushmore project in 1927, with completion of the project

in 1941.The site consists of four gigantic carved sculptures depicting the faces of U.S. Presidents George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Abraham Lincoln and Theodore Roosevelt. Some 400 workers erected the sculpture under dangerous conditions, removing a total of 450,000 tons of the red rock in order to create the enormous carved heads, each of which reached a height of 60 feet. Hard to believe, but no man perished during its construction. It’s thrilling to stand in its presence, and even if you’re not patriotic—you leave with a new zeal and appreciation for the beauty of nature, this country, and the engineering marvel of mankind. After a full day of exploring the prairie, seeing roaming wildlife and a paramount monument, it was time to enjoy a nice lunch. Rapid City, I was pleased to find out, is a foodie roadstead. For upscale new American fare there’s Tally's Silver Spoon; Everest Cuisine has fantastic NepaleseIndian food; Murphy’s Pub & Grill has some great traditional fried pickles and shepherd’s pie; and for great steaks with a pleasant setting and classic mountain west décor, make sure to enjoy lunch or dinner at the Dakotah Steakhouse and Tavern. Other places to see while in Rapid City is Needles Highway, a National Scenic Byway completed in 1922, that include 14 miles of sharp turns, low tunnels and granite spires. From there you’ll be

Spearfish Canyon's Roughlock Falls

Bison crossing!

memorial A work in progress: the Crazy Horse

en-route to the Crazy Horse Memorial, a mountain monument of the famed Oglala Lakota warrior, riding a horse and pointing into the distance— the monument is still under construction with just the face of the warrior visible. Then, just a 37-minute drive via US-16 and you arrive at Sitting Bull Crystal Caverns. A subterranean, limestone cave complex that houses the world’s most extensive display of dog-tooth spar crystal, you can peer into the pristine, shimmering waters of Diamond Lake, reflecting like a mirror, the massive crystal ceiling. Visit the famous French Chandelier room, Crystal Palace and Rainbow Arch. Just an 8-minute drive from here and you arrive at the Dinosaur Museum. With over 50 life-size dinosaurs, the museum features a mirror maze, movie theatre and a children’s fossil dig. Rapid City, South Dakota has everything to offer travelers, from nature, museums, history, monuments, family adventures, scenic landscapes and restaurants, to gracious locals. A destination suited for long walks, journaling, taking in the sunset, being in gratitude, and finding peace in nature. It’s no surprise this state’s hash-tag is #ATHANKFULstate. n

The heart of the Badlands ay Aerial view over Needles Highw

Bison statue sculpture at Dakotah's

Steakhouse

The Dinosaur Park's Sue the T-Rex

For more information on visiting South Dakota or to plan your trip, go to www.travelsouthdakota.com. Prairie dogs are a common site

among the grasslands

Sitting Bull Crystal Caverns

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QH Sensations

By Fathima Faaiza Feroz Photography by Nadir Khamis

February 9 is Qatar National Sport Day and QH is bringing you the latest news on fitness-friendly activities happening across the city. From recreational events, to sporting competitions and wellness workshops, we’ve compiled all you need to know in one handy itinerary to mark the occasion. 108

atar National Sport Day is one to circle on your calendar as we get ready to celebrate and appreciate sport as family, friends and a community as a whole. Those who are enthusiastic to participate can get their heart rate pumping by either joining in one of the many activities taking place on the day, or showing support in a variety of other ways – whether it’s watching an athletics-associated film, or simply making healthier lifestyle choices. If you’re looking for ways to be proactive on National Sport Day we’ve got you covered, gathering information on activities and goings-on in areas near you to keep you entertained, energized and on the move. Be sure to grab your family and friends for a day of fitness and fun by following our list of do-notmiss recreational highlights.

The Pearl-Qatar Take part in The Pearl’s annual walkathon, kicking off at 8:00 a.m. on National Sport Day at La Croisette, Porto Arabia.

Qatar Foundation Unlock your inner athlete on National Sport Day at Qatar Foundation. Meet and greet horses from 9:00 a.m. till 4:00 p.m. at Al Shaqab, take in a game of interactive wheelchair basketball from 10:00 a.m. to 12 noon, or enter a running competition for kids and adults at the Awsaj Recreation Running Track from 8:00 a.m. till 10:00 a.m.

The Corniche Enter the Qatar Olympic Committee’s Sports Village for a day filled with free activities and entertainment

for every age and fitness level. Open from 3:00 p.m. till 10:00 p.m. on National Sport Day, don’t forget to participate in their Sports Walk and support the Al Shawahef Rowing Championship.

Aspire Zone

National Qatari quad-bike racer Mohammed Abu Issa and his crew will be offering up coaching for Banshee and quad-bike racing along the Sealine Banshee track. Meet them at 7:00 a.m. at the Sealine Roundabout to join in on the ride.

Embark on the 5,000-Step Journey hosted by Aspetar, or the 3km Fun Run, both designed to encourage healthy eating and daily physical activity. Held from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m., the 5,000 Step Journey starts and finishes in front of The Torch Doha hotel, while the Fun Run kicks off from Khalifa Stadium. Ladies can also get into the spirit of National Sport Day by enrolling in an Indoor Boot Camp from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.; or, learn about the science of sport at Aspire Dome’s Indoor Athletic Track from 10:00 a.m. till 4:00 p.m.

Museum Of Islamic Art Park

Doha Out And About

Take part in competitions for fun, and exercise classes for a healthier lifestyle. Be the first to enter Qatar’s first ever ‘Snow Zone’ sponsored by Ooredoo and enjoy the thrill of a snowball fight, or zip down some snow-slides.

Being healthy and fit is one of the most important things we can do for our well-being. Do you feel like you live a healthy lifestyle? If you’re trying to improve your fitness or start exercising, then join

Sealine Beach

one of Qatar’s many gyms to get all the motivation you need to become a better version of yourself. Fitness Qatar provides people with active event management, corporate team-building, personal/ group training and sports coaching. Also, did you know that former FC Barcelona mid-fielder Xavi is signed to the QSL’s Al Sadd team? He might be playing football in a stadium near you, so don’t miss out on the chance to catch him live in action! Since sharing is caring, this National Sport Day the public will be encouraged to take pictures of their exercising escapades, uploading them to all social media platforms under the hash-tag #QatarNationalSportDay. For more information on Qatar National Sport Day 2016 and its updated schedule of events visit www.sportday.qa. n

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It Happened

man r Bilal, Mr. Ahmed Hassan Bilal, Chair L-R: Talal Nasser Bilal, Ahmad Nasse Group Nasser Ahmed Hassan Bilal, AHB and Bilal r Nasse Eisa ; Group of AHB Director of Operations

Alfardan man of AHB Group, Mr. Hussein L-R: Mr. Ahmed Hassan Bilal, Chair inaugurate the ribbon-cutting Al Ansari, CEO of Novo Cinema

Crunch Cantina Grand Opening The Pearl-Qatar Jan 5, 2016 110

Mr. Hussein Alfardan, Al Ansari, CEO of Novo Cinema; L-R: Mr. Abdullah Mirza, Mr. Jaber AHB Group and Mr. Ali Muftah of man Chair Bilal, n Hassa d Mr. Ahme

and Mr. Jaber

Spain's Rafael Nadal

Qatar ExxonMobil Tennis Open 2016 Khalifa International Tennis & Squash Complex Jan 2-9, 2016

took home Serbian sensation Novak Djokovic final the coveted trophy at this year's

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It Happened

The Color Run QNCC Jan 9, 2016 112

Street Food Night Doha Marriott Jan 21, 2016

n alongside Hotel Eric Chevallier (right) cuts the ribbo t (left) H.E. French Ambassador to Qatar and Executive Chef Emmanuel Pualia re) (cent rstedt Egge l Pasca General Manager

French Promotion Media Dinner InterContinental Doha The City Jan 18, 2016 113

It Happened

Hamlet Globe-To-Globe World Tour Al Rayyan Theatre Jan 13, 2016

Rehat Fateh Ali Khan Press Conference Crowne Plaza Doha â&#x20AC;&#x201C; The Business Park Jan 3, 2016 114

Minister Dr. Hamad bin Abdulaziz Al-Kuwari, s choir of Culture, Arts and Heritage greet members

s Ibo is greeted Contest winner Mary-Ann Santo El Khoury by Hotel General Manager Mr. Chris

The QH Grab-Bag Hotel Winner Millennium Hotel Doha Dec 31, 2015

Qatar Motor Show Press Conference Losail International Circuit Jan 11, 2016 115

Phone Directory Hotels Al Gassar Resort Banana Island Resort Doha by Anantara City Centre Rotana Doha Crowne Plaza The Business Park Doha Marriott Hotel Grand Heritage Doha Hotel and Spa The Grand Hyatt Holiday Villa Hilton Doha InterContinental Doha InterContinental Doha The City Kempinski Residences & Suites La Cigale Marriott Marquis City Center Doha Marsa Malaz Kempinski Millennium Hotel Doha Mรถvenpick Hotel Mรถvenpick Hotel West Bay Doha Oryx Rotana Radisson Blu Shangri-La Hotel Doha Sharq Village & Spa Sheraton Doha The Four Seasons The Ritz-Carlton The St. Regis Doha The Torch Doha W Doha Hotel & Residences Westin Doha Hotel & Spa Wyndham Grand Regency

4424-4881 4040-5050 4445-8888 4408-7777 4429-8888 4445 5555 4448-1234 4408-4888 4423-3333 4484-4444 4015-8888 4405-3333 4428 8888 4419-5000 4035-5555 4424-7777 4429-1111 4496-6600 4402-3333 4428-1555 4429-5000 4425-6666 4485-4444 4494-8888 4484-8000 4446-0000 4446-5600 4453-5000 4492-1555 4434-3333

Airlines Air Arabia 4432-2111 Air France 4444-5101 American Airlines 4499-5737 Air India 4441-8423 British Airways 4432-1538 Cathay Pacific Airways 4445-8319 Delta Airlines 4483-0725 Egypt Air 4435-2901 Emirates 4438-4477 Etihad Airways 4436-6657 Fly Dubai 4422-7350 Gulf Air 4499-8000 4431-0212 Lufthansa German Airlines Oman Air 4432-0509 Qatar Airways 4449-6666 Royal Jordanian 4443-1431 Sri Lankan Airlines 4444-1217 Turkish Airlines 4443-3027

Health / Beauty

Ahmed Hassan Bilal Group

Amaoras RelaxationSpa 4408-4085 Angsana Spa 4434-3152 Bay View 26, Wellness Centre 4496-6410 Bliss 4453-5555 Bottega Verde 4483-4535 Coiffeur Franรงaise 4468-9211 4498-0033 Dados Beauty Salon Diva Lounge 4431-8488 4431-7766 Doha Dental 4429-8520 Doha Marriott Spa Ebn Sina Medical 800-2288 4494-8801 Four Seasons Spa Frank Provost 4494-8844 Glow American Salon, Salwa Rd. 4468-9945 West Bay 4411-7652 4483-9100 GoodLife Chemist City Center The Pearl 4495-3876 Guerlain Alfardan Spa 4420-8660 Habibs Hair and Beauty Salon 4413-0672 Heavenly Spa 4492-1555 La Cigale - Ozone Spa 4428-8888 Medical Spa Villaggio 4451-7590 Patrice Salon 4485-4012 Pure Spa 4424-7327 Ritz-Carlton Spa 4484-8173 Saray Spa 4419-5517 Six Senses Spa 4425-6999 Snips Salon 4408-4083

Real Estate Ahmed Hassan Bilal 4442-8877 Trad. & Cont. Co. www.ahbqatar.com Interior Forum Design 4456-8716 Restaurants Chowking Salwa Road 4437-1212 Chowking Al Khor 4411-8816/4411-8817 Chowking Mamoura 4486-6077 Chowking Holiday Villa 4411-5225/335 Crunch Cantina 4442-8877 German Bakery Company 4442-8877 Harry Ramsden's World Famous Fish & Chips 4468-3231 Publications ABODE/QH Magazines 4427-8416

Tourism / Travel Alpha Tours Ambassador Travel Arabian Adventures Cleopatra Travel Continental Tourism Darwish Travel World Wide Destination Fanar Travels Fox Transport Gulf Adventures Mosafer Travels Mowasalat Karwa Taxi Qatar Airways Holidays Qatar International Adventures Qatar International Tours Qatar Tourism & Exhibitions Authority Regency Travel & Tour Tourist Travel Bureau Victoria Car Rental

4434-4496 4445-7788 4436-1461 4443-9333 4462-2122 4441-8666 4467-1200 4441-3428 4462-2777 4422-1888 4432-0121 4458-8888 4449-6969 4455-3954 4455-1141 4499-7499 4434-4444 4443-5050 4466-6635

Hospitals / Emergency Ambulance, Police & Fire Department

999

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

Rumailah Hospital Pediatric Emergency Qatar Foundation for Child & Woman Protection Hotline

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4439-3333 4439-2948 4466-6671

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

Embassies American Embassy Bahraini Embassy Brazilian Embassy British Embassy Canadian Embassy Chinese Embassy Egyptian Embassy French Embassy German Embassy Greek Embassy Indian Embassy Italian Embassy Japanese Embassy Jordanian Embassy Korean Embassy Kuwaiti Embassy Lebanese Embassy Nepalese Embassy Philippine Embassy Polish Embassy Russian Embassy Saudi Arabian Embassy South African Embassy Spanish Embassy Sri Lankan Embassy Turkish Embassy U.A.E. Embassy

4496-6000 4483-9360 4483-8812 4496-2000 4419-9000 4493-4205 4483-2555 4402-1702 4408-2334 44128150 4425-5777 4483-1802 4484-0888 4483-2202 4483-2238 4483-2111 4493-3330 4467-5681 4483-1585 4411-3230 4483-6231 4483-2030 6622-1552 4483-5886 4467-7627 4495-1300 4483-8880