Qatar Happening - January 2016 by Qatar Happening

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

pg 18 Simple Minds Live At The Qatar Masters

January 2016 EVERY ISSUE 11 12

Chairman's Letter

AHB Group's Chairman brings you his New Year's address

ENTERTAINMENT 17

Top Picks

Retro Revival

The Bard Without Borders

In The Key Of Khan

Mid-East Meets Far East

Two To Tango

Sisters In Symphony

Arts & Culture Listings

QH Speaks

The best of our monthly social media,

plus the Hit-Or-Miss List

The QH Grab-Bag

Our monthly prize corner for your chance to win

104 It Happened

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

116 Phone Directory

Need-to-know phone numbers

30 32 35

ARTS & CULTURE

Eighties mega-group Simple Minds will land in Doha to perform at the Qatar Masters. We get the inside scoop from lead singer Jim Kerr Pakistani superstar and Qawwali music legend Rahat Fateh Ali Khan marks his début concert in Qatar on January 29

Black On Top

We talk fame and comedy with Kung Fu Panda 3 funnyman Jack Black

Virgin Recommends

The best monthly entertainment picks from the Megastore

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

Entertainment Listings

A look ahead at Qatar Museums' Qatar-China 2016 Year of Culture

QH explores the revival of the South American dance-form at Qatar's 3rd International Tango Dance Festival How QPO violinists Alie and Lilya Bekirova are bringing the sound of music to a new generation Find out everything that’s going on this month

Find out everything that’s going on this month

LIKE US ON FACEBOOK www.facebook.com/qatarhappening

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The Globe Theatre's production of Hamlet takes the stage at Souq Waqif as part of the British Council's Shakespeare Lives program. We go behind the curtain

CHECK OUT www.qatarhappening.com for the latest information

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TABLE OF CONTENTS COMMUNITY 53

Top Picks

Faith In Nature

A New Start To The Year

Slowing The Pace

Community Listings

How Qatar Foundation's Qur'anic Botanic Garden is shedding new light on the Islamic principles of nature Looking ahead at the 2016 academic year with Doha College Principal Dr. Steffen Sommer Jacqueline Bodnar explores how, in our fast-paced world, an unhurried child is a happier child

pg 84

Find out everything that’s going on this month

Inside The Qatar ExxonMobil Open 2016 FOOD & DINING

SPORTS

QH SENSATIONS

Top Picks

Fiery, Flavourful Japan

Game, Set, Match

Golden Guerlain

The Business Of Lunch

Season's Restaurant at the Mövenpick Hotel Doha is back with a new look and a hot new business lunch to boot

Engines On!

My Armenian Kitchen

We fan the teppanyaki flames at the Radisson Blu's Sakura restaurant

Mamig restaurant's Chef Zarmig whips up some wintry lamb cutlets with eggplant and we've got the recipe

Word Of Mouth

In this month's reader review we're heading to Hwang in the InterContinental Doha The City for a taste of the Orient

The world stars of men's tennis are back in Doha for the Qatar ExxonMobil Open 2016 We're burning rubber at the first Qatar Motorcycle Festival, which will take over Katara from January 14-16

Take The HIT

Sweat it out this New Year with EVOLVE – Mind/Body/Soul's HighIntensity Training program

Sports Listings

Find out everything that’s going on this month

Food & Dining Listings

Email: editor@qatarhappening.com info@qatarhappening.com jorge@qatarhappening.com

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Gentlemen, get groomed! We test out the newly-opened Barber Shop at The Four Seasons

Nuts About Nut Butter...

Why limit yourself to peanuts only? QH explores the myriad health benefits of the small but mighty almond, walnut, cashew and more!

100 Marrakech – Pure Magic How the mystique of the ancient Moroccan city continues to draw wanderers to its mosaic palaces and Berber bazaars In celebration of the New Year, QH encourages you to know your city and try something new! We've rounded up our top options to get you out of the house and into the community

Have Your Say: Call Details: Inquiries: Marketing: Fax:

Luxury At Its Best

102 The Dish On Qatar

Find out everything that’s going on this month

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

It's an afternoon of New Year's pampering with two exclusive new treatments at Guerlain Spa, Alfardan

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

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

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From The Desk Of The Chairman

On The Cover?

ry We're ready to make the glitte ! most of 2016. Happy New Year by Photo Credit: Conceptualized Lindsey Steenkamp

About Us Dear friends, I extend to you my warmest wishes for a bountiful New Year as we welcome 2016 with a positive outlook for the next 12 months ahead. As we look to the future, it is with pride that we look to our beloved Emir, His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, whose benevolent leadership serves us well and will continue to do so throughout the New Year and beyond as Qatar flourishes under his respected guidance. 2015 saw our population surge upwards to 2.46 million people by year’s end – a figure that is sure to keep growing. As Qatar forges ahead to brace its infrastructure for this influx, one can’t help but feel a certain sense of honour that so many talented individuals seek out our country to further their skills and foster their career goals. For those of us who have spent our lives here, it has been enriching to see our great nation prosper and become a global hub for industry, medicine, the arts and all sectors that comprise a knowledge-based economy in line with our National Vision 2030. As we peer over the horizon of 2016, we catch a glimpse of where we are headed and what is in store for us as a country and as a community. From a strengthened focus on tourism that will see Qatar welcoming fleets of cruise ships to our shores during this first quarter, to the announcement of the latest venues for the seventh and eighth 2022 FIFA World Cup stadiums at Ras Abu Aboud and Al Thumama, to the anticipated grand opening of the new Qatar National Museum, this year is all about momentum for our Qatar. Doha’s arts and culture sector has never been stronger than it has this last year, hosting exhibitions from relevant, world-class artists such as Belgian painter Luc Tuymans at Al Riwaq, to Mathaf’s Focus exhibit highlighting the important work of contemporary Arab artists. The New Year also welcomes the launch of Qatar Museums’ Qatar-China 2016 Year Of Culture. As the two nations forge new bonds and strengthen existing ties, people on both shores can look forward to a dynamic year full of cultural exchange and educational offerings. It is my hope that we can all continue to keep pace with the growth of our fair nation in the months to come. That we may all stand by one another, as brothers and sisters, building a community and a country whose legacy will far outlast the rest. For we are Qatar and Qatar is us, and may 2016 be what we make it – full of outstanding achievements and renewed dedication to the country we all call home. It is my pleasure to wish you a very Happy New Year.

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, Emily Alp, Jacqueline Bodnar,

John Hunt, Jan Janssen – Viva Press, Nadir Khamis, Sahar Makki, Lynsey Riach, Flavio Rodriguez, Rubina Singh

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.

Ahmed Hassan Bilal

Chairman

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

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SPEAKS

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

The Hit-Or-Miss List Traffic In A Bottle If you’ve ever tried to make your weary escape from The Pearl at rush hour on a Thursday (or any given weekday morning), then you know the bottle-neck we’re referring to. With only one way on and one way off the man-made island, most mornings and evenings are bumper-tocrawling-bumper and a true exercise in patience. Yes, we’ve heard the talk of ‘will they/won’t they’ create a second point of egress – be it a bridge, tunnel or water ferry – but the fact remains that you’ve got to give yourself a lot of extra time when calculating your commute. After leaving Marsa Malaz one recent Thursday night, traffic was backed up all the way through the underpass tunnel heading to the exit and we were stuck for half an hour before clearing the West Bay Lagoon area. As for emergencies? We’re heartened to hear of a new ambulance station that’s headed to The Pearl (there’s already one near the InterCon), but a few Medivac helipads couldn’t hurt either.

Executive Pastry Chef Richie Bancroft

elcome to our first, shiny-new issue of the New Year! We’ve made it through another event-filled calendar and now it’s all eyes on the horizon for 2016. Though I’ve never been one for New Year’s resolutions (making or sticking by them), I do feel a sense of hope every time January 1st rolls around. Perhaps this is because the proverbial clean slate just looks so smooth that I can’t wait to grab my chalk, leave the first mark and set the pace for a new trajectory. We hope our January issue carves out an equally positive path for the next 12 editions of 2016. Of course, this month we have a stronger focus on wellness (though I’ll stop short of using the ‘New Year, New You’ cliché), while on the cultural front we offer up a sneak peek of the Qatar-China 2016 Year of Culture, go behind-the-scenes of the Shakespeare’s Globe theatre production of Hamlet, and put on our dancing shoes as we explore the rise and rhythm of Tango in Doha.

Mad For Monte’s It’s been a while coming, but worth the wait, as Monte’s deli and sandwich shop in West Bay’s Tornado Tower becomes the new lunch-kid on the block for grab-and-go goodness. We’re a fan of their fresh, wholesome menu, top-notch ingredients and guilty pastry pleasures. (Yes, the same team responsible for La Varenne’s decadent confectionaries is also behind those melt-in-your-mouth Monte’s croissants and pain au chocolats.) The décor is clean, industrial-chic with just enough splash of colour to keep it vibrant. We’re already racking up the points on our loyalty card for that free, fresh-brewed coffee to kick-start our day – how about you?

In Entertainment we’re starting the New Year off right with some stellar celebrity interviews. First up we’ve got an exclusive with the band Simple Minds who’ll be showcasing their 80’s throwbacks in concert at the 19th Commercial Bank Qatar Masters golf tournament. Then, we sit down with funny-man Jack Black who’s back on the big screen (well, his animated self at least!) in the new Kung Fu Panda 3. In Sports for January we take you to court at the Qatar ExxonMobil Open 2016 to see some of the best stars in world tennis face off across the net as part of the ATP World Tour. Then we’re hitting the gym for some high-intensity training with EVOLVE – Mind/Body/Soul, and winding down with some much-needed pampering at Guerlain Spa, Alfardan. And, of course, no issue of QH would be complete without some tasty offerings to lead you astray from that New Year’s diet. This month we go table-side for some authentic teppanyaki at the Radisson Blu’s Sakura restaurant, then, we’re abuzz about business lunches with a tasty new offering from the Mövenpick Hotel Doha. So, here’s to the 2016 year ahead – let’s make it a happening one. See you next month,

Z Lounge by Zengo Under construction and under wraps for the better part of last year, we knew big things were in store for the former Sky Villa atop the Kempinski Residences & Suites. At 256 metres tall, this Corinthian column is the highest tower in Qatar – so when we heard rumblings its Sky Villa was going to be re-launched as a nightlife concept, our curiosity was piqued. Cue Z Lounge by Zengo. Word of mouth after its soft opening had the local glitterati abuzz – Zengo being Toro Toro celebrity Chef Richard Sandoval’s Asian dining concept with a Latin twist. Olé! Check out our photos from their recent VIP night on page 109.

Turn It Down Why Don’t Cha?! Ashlee Starratt Editor

Top Of The Twitter-Verse @MysteriousChic6

There are always flowers for those who

want to see them…

One QH staffer is seeing red (and hearing sirens) after issuing an onslaught of noise complaints to a prominent West Bay hotel which happens to be adjacent to the residential tower where they live. From exclusive beach parties, to rooftop ruckuses, enough is enough already. Is it really necessary to have the decibel-dial turned all the way up to ‘rupture’, night-after-night, when there are families with small children and folks who have to wake up early living next-door? The constant noise has become so problematic that an apartment-wide memo was issued advising tenants to complain to the police – but so far, the weekend din can still be heard far and wide. Earplugs in bed just aren’t cutting it!

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This month’s QH GrabBag is all about health and wellness for the New Year as we’re giving away a one-month membership at The Bay Club in the five-star InterContinental Doha. To participate, head over to the Qatar Happening Facebook page where the winner will be selected on January 12.

Images courtesy of the InterContinental Doha

About The Bay Club

Catch some rays and make the most of the InterCon's lush beachfront

Nestled in landscaped gardens with 500 metres of sandy beach, The Bay Club is more than just a gym. Its resort facilities are considered among the best in Doha, where you’ll be able to enjoy an array of activities from stand-up paddling, to tennis and squash. Trained instructors are always on hand to help you get the most from your workout, while skilled therapists await to offer you exclusive treatments and massages to pamper and relax you.

The Bay Club Facilities

• 500 metres of white, sandy beach • 24-hour brand-new, state-of-art fitness centre • Fitness studio • 2 tennis courts • 2 squash courts • Free-form outdoor swimming pool • Shaded kids’ pool • Outdoor shaded kids’ playground

Opening Houres

• Fitness Centre: 24 houres • Beach: 7:00 a.m. - Sunset • Outdoor Pool: 6:00 a.m. - 9:00 p.m. • Kids Pool: 6:00 a.m. - 9:00 p.m. • Studio: 5:00 a.m. - 9:00 p.m. • Tennis Courts: 7:00 a.m. - 10:00 p.m. • Squash Courts: 7:00 a.m. - 11:00 p.m. • Poolside Restaurant: 9:00 a.m. - 9:00 p.m. • Beachside Restaurant: 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. n

Take a swing on the tennis court

Fancy a game of squash?

For more information on InterContinental Doha and The Bay Club call 4484-4444.

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ENTERTAINMENT

Top Picks

THE FOUR SEASONS 45 And Below

Sun -Wed: Plaza by the Pool. This is the perfect weather in Doha to relax and enjoy your refreshments during Happy Hour at the hotel’s new Plaza by the Pool accompanied by a delicious snack menu. From 5:00 p.m. till 8:00 p.m. For more information call 4494-8631.

SHERATON DOHA Bandeoke Night

Mondays: Irish Harp. Join the MVM band on-stage and sing with the song of your choice. Teachers and hoteliers enjoy a 30% discount. For more information call 4485-3000, email F&Breservations.Doha@sheraton.com , or visit www.irishharpdoha.com.

LA CIGALE Karaoke Night

Mondays: Madison Piano Bar. For those adept at singing, Madison Piano Bar invites you every Monday for an ultimate Karaoke Night where you can show off your talent in a cheerful ambiance. Choose from a wide variety of English, French, Arabic, Khaleeji, Italian and Spanish songs. From 6:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. Membership is required. No entrance fee and no minimum charge. For more information call 4428-8204/888.

THE RITZ-CARLTON Taco Fiesta

ORYX ROTANA New Jazz Club Band

Sun-Fri: Jazz Club. Enjoy the new resident band showcasing their original fusion of jazz, soul, and funk every day. Performances are as follows: Sunday and Monday from 8:00 p.m. till 12:45 midnight, Tuesday and Wednesday from 9:00 p.m. till 1:45 a.m., and a minimum spend of QR 150 is applicable on Thursday and Friday. For more information call 4402-3333.

Daily: Admiral’s Club. Savour fish, chili con carne, lobster, adobo beef, or mesquite chicken tacos at Admiral’s during the month of January. Fresh ingredients take centre-stage in each dish, thrilling the taste buds with vibrant flavours. Enjoy the beautiful décor and waterfront scenery on their casual terrace for outdoor lounging with a breezy and laid-back vive. For more Information call 4484-8000, or email rc.dohrz.leads@ritzcarlton.com.

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ENTERTAINMENT

By Jorge Granda and Sahar Makki Images courtesy of Fasttrack Agency

The Scottish band Simple Minds lands in Doha to perform live on January 29 at the 19th Commercial Bank Qatar Masters. We re-live the glory days of the 80â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s with front-man Jim Kerr, as he talks to QH about their rise to fame, life on the road and a soon-tobe-sold-out Doha show.

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QH: Jim – welcome to Doha! This is a new city for you guys isn’t it? JK: Yes, it will be our first time performing in Doha at the Commercial Bank Qatar Masters. We’ve heard so many great things about Doha and how refined it is, so I’m looking forward to exploring and discovering the city while we’re there. QH: Walk us back through the decades to the root of Simple Minds? JK: Simple Minds essentially are a band that started at school. We were school friends and have known each other since we were eight years-old. We started hanging out with each other and playing and listening to music…and that’s how it all started. QH: What’s in the line-up for your Qatar Masters show? JK: We hope to deliver an amazing gig and we look forward to playing all our classic hits. The crowd can expect a great, energetic show. QH: You’ve been on the circuit lately with your Big World Tour 2015. How is it? JK: Yes, it’s just finished and it was wonderful. We played all over Europe, did a dozen gigs in the UK. We changed the sets, kept it fresh and made a lot of people happy. QH: During the 80’s when you guys were just starting to achieve commercial success, was there a bit of competition for the charts with other mega-bands of that era – U2 or Duran Duran for example?

JK: I don’t believe there was competition. We were competing perhaps for space on radios, on TV, and in record shops. We were competing in the marketplace but not directly, because we were often working together and touring and we would meet with those bands. We could identify with them as we were all in the same boat. QH: When we think of Simple Minds, we have to break out the soundtrack to The Breakfast Club. ‘Don’t You (Forget About Me)’ is such an iconic track – and one that made you guys a household name. Does it still carry a lot of meaning for you all these years later – or do you eventually tire of performing it? JK: It never gets old. It always sounds good. It’s a feel-good song where the production doesn’t feel dated. So if you combine that with the fact that it almost doesn’t belong to us, it belongs to an entire generation and that is what makes it such an iconic song. You want to play it and you want to do it great for the crowds. QH: If you were to write a song that would reflect the state of the world’s current troubles, what would you call it and what kind of a message would you want to put out there? JK: Something like ‘These Are The Times We Are Living’. Every time and period has its own troubles and challenges…it’s not always good – especially during hard times. But life is wonderful and you don’t have to be a king or a billionaire to feel that way. So yes maybe something like that. QH: Now let’s get the cliché question out of the way. Do you have a favourite song you’ve written? JK: I don’t have a favourite song as we’ve written hundreds and each one is special. QH: In three words, how do you feel when you head out on-stage? JK: That’s a tough one…Three words did you say? How about I give you two? Two words: very lucky. QH: If you had to pick a Simple Mind’s track to dedicate to a world leader, which song would you choose and what would it be called? JK: We’ve already done that. We dedicated a song to Nelson Mandela who is no longer with us. We called it ‘Mandela Day’.

JK: Well, like I mentioned I love wide open spaces. I go to the countryside in Scotland or Italy and you’ll usually find me hiking and walking there. I also like to spend time with friends and family and with my kids. You know…all the normal stuff. I like cooking – really like it actually – and it’s not something I get to do when we are on the road, so I enjoy that. QH: Of all the countries you’ve traveled to ontour, which ones stole your heart? JK: Japan; I go there a lot actually – and Italy. I visited the first time when I was a school kid from Glasgow and I’ve been attached to it ever since. QH: Can fans expect a forthcoming new album release? Are you guys back in the studio? JK: We are actually. We are working on new music and we were in the studio the other day. I think it’s so important to write a new chapter because it revitalizes everything. If you don’t, there’s a chance you would calcify and become one of those ‘museum bands’ – and we don’t want that to happen. As for the release of this new album…we’re hoping to release it in early 2017. QH: Simple Minds has had a long career over the last 38 years with more than a few defining moments. Can you name one? JK: I’d have to say our number one hit in America – ‘Don’t You (Forget About Me)’. QH: As performers you guys live in the spotlight. Turning the tables a little bit, do you ever get star-struck by the artists you’ve met and worked with? JK: Yes of course. At the end of the day I am also a fan and, initially, it was all new to me – but I haven’t been for a while. QH: How’s life on the road? Is it something that you’re still enjoying, or is it just part of the job? JK: It’s both really. It’s what we wanted to do with our lives. Nothing gives us more pleasure than performing live – but it’s a job as well. It’s months in advance of work and preparations and we put our lives on hold to go and do it. It’s the obligation that comes with the job, but at the end of the day it’s our passion. What we do – it’s called playing music. Simple Minds Live In Concert

QH: You and your band-mates have performed together for a very long time. Are you all still the closest of friends? JK: Yes we’re very good friends – I think you have to be. In our band you would have to be because that’s the way it is – it’s not just a job. You always see each other and you look after each other. We are definitely good friends, and in some cases great friends. QH: What else fuels your life’s passion when you’re not touring or recording?

Date: Friday, January 29 Location: Qatar Golf Club, Public Village Timings: Shows starts at 7:00 p.m. Contact Info: For more information visit www.qatar-masters.com Social Media: • Facebook – www.facebook.com/ CommercialBankQatarMasters • Twitter – @CBQatarMasters • Hashtag – #MyCBQatarMasters

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ENTERTAINMENT

Simple Minds will be breaking out all their best hits from the last three decades − including The Breakfast Me) Club's Don't You (Forget About

THE COMMERCIAL BANK QATAR MASTERS Since 1998 the tournament has been hosted at the Doha Golf Club and sponsored annually by Commercial Bank. Held at the beginning of each year as part of The European Tour, many of the world’s best golfers convene on Doha to compete on the Club’s unique and challenging, desert-type Championship Course – proven to be one of the longest par-72 courses on the tour. Designed by Peter Harradine and unveiled in 1997, the 7,374-yard Championship Course features eight strategically positioned lakes, 65 giant cacti, numerous imposing limestone rock formations and an abundance of lush and lengthy green fairways, presenting a startling contrast to the desert that lies beyond.

Commercial Bank Qatar Masters Past Champions 2015 – Branden Grace 2014 – Sergio Garcia 2013 – Chris Wood 2012 – Paul Lawrie 2011 – Thomas Bjørn 2010 – Robert Karlsson 2009 – Alvaro Quiros 2008 – Adam Scott 2007 – Retief Goosen 2006 – Henrik Stenson 2005 – Ernie Els 2004 – Joakim Haeggmann 2003 – Darren Fichardt

2002 – Adam Scott 2001 – Tony Johnstone 2000 – Rolf Muntz 1999 – Paul Lawrie 1998 – Andrew Coltart

Ticket Information Commercial Bank Qatar Masters tickets are available to buy now at: • Virgin Megastores – www.virginmegastore.me • Ticketmaster – www.ticketmaster.qa • Time Out – www.timeoutdoha.com • Q Tickets – www.q-tickets.com • I Love Qatar – http://cbqmasters.iloveqatar.net • Eatopia Qatar • InterContinental Doha • Doha Golf Club • Radisson Blu Hotel Doha • Doha Rugby Football Club Tickets are priced as follows, starting at QR 150: Wednesday, January 27 • General admission ticket: QR 150 Thursday, January 28 • General admission ticket: QR 150 Friday, January 29 • General admission ticket including public access to Simple Minds live music concert: QR 250 • VIP concert ticket - general admission to the golf course, access to a designated exclusive tented area at the Simple Minds concert, canapés and one free beverage: QR 500

The Qatar Masters returns to the Doha Golf Club

Saturday, January 30 • General admission ticket: QR 200 Wednesday-To-Saturday Season Pass • Includes general admission on all four days and access to the Simple Minds concert on Friday, January 29: QR 450 Entry is free for children under 14 years of age and each ticket purchased entitles the holder to one free round-trip journey to and from the Doha Golf Club by event partner Uber. n

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ENTERTAINMENT

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Qawwali legend Rahat Fateh Ali Khan will serenade thousands of h Doha concert-goers later this mont

As told to Jorge Granda Images courtesy of Apex Events

Pakistani mega-star Rahat Fateh Ali Khan is bringing his soulful sound to Qatar in a one-night only performance on January 29. QH explores the roots of his signature Qawwali melodies.

ahat Fateh Ali Khan is a renowned Pakistani artist who rose to fame as a Qawwali singer – a form of Sufi devotional music prevalent in Southern Asia, especially in the Punjab and Sindh areas of Pakistan, and also in Delhi, Hyderabad, and other regions throughout India. Though his musical roots are Qawwali Khan has also branched out, expanding is repertoire into the realm of ghazals and other forms of lighter melody. Born into a Muslim background in the city of Faisalabad in Punjab, Pakistan, his family lineage is one of traditional musicians – his uncle is none other than world-famous Pakistani musician Ustad Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan. In 1985 at the young age of 12 years-old, he gave his very first public performance while on tour in the U.K with his uncle’s Qawwali group, performing some solo songs on his own. On July 27, 1985, he performed a ghazal called ‘Mukh Tera Sohneya Sharab Nalon Changa Ae’ at a concert in Birmingham, U.K. That very same year he went on to perform ‘Gin Gin Taare Lang Gaiyaan Rattaan’ in concert at the Harrow Leisure Centre. Over the years, as he continued to follow his family’s tradition, his acclaim grew and Khan eventually drew the eye of Bollywood. His very first project as a playback singer was in the Pooja Bhatt-directed Bollywood film, Paap

(2003). Some of his more recent works include songs like ‘Hum Pakistan’, ‘Dharti Dharti’ and various other Bollywood favourites. Khan has embarked on numerous world tours and in April 2012 he performed at the Manchester Arena and Wembley Arena in the U.K. to audiences in the tens of thousands. He, along with Ustad Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan and Pearl Jam lead singer Eddie Vedder, contributed the soundtrack of the 1995 Academy Award-winning film Dead Man Walking, directed by Tim Robbins. In 2002 Khan joined hands with acclaimed Hollywood film composer James Horner to work together on the soundtrack of Shekar Kapur’s The Four Feathers. His songs have also been featured on various highprofile albums and movie scores including the song ‘Maki Madni’ for The Derek Truck’s Band’s album Joyful Noise, and the Mel Gibson-directed feature Hollywood film Apocalypto. Khan has also appeared alongside Sonu Nigam as a television judge for Chhote Ustad 2, a reality singing show on India’s Star Plus cable network. Then in 2008, he went on to judge contestants on NDTV Imagine’s reality music program Junoon – Kuchh Kar Dikhaane Ka. Fans in Doha should expect the crowds to come out in droves to witness one of the Qawwali world’s biggest stars and one of Pakistan’s national treasures – Rehat Fateh Ali Khan.

• Grand Mart • Quality Retail Group • Safari Mall • New Remedy • Doha Rocks • Zaffran Café • Zaffran Dining • Cuppa Café • Aalishan Restaurant • ZAOQ Fine-Dining • Spice Boat Restaurant • Idly Factory • Lifestyle Restaurants • Gourmet Restaurant • Gahwa Sultan • Mr. Idle • Oyster Restaurant • Qutba Restaurant • Muzamil Sweets • Zaiqa Restaurant • Biryani Hut • The Kerala House • Alosra Restaurant • Jamila Rasaoi • New Indian Super Market Ticket Prices: • QR 1,000, VVIP • QR 500, VIP • QR 250, Gold • QR 100, Silver • QR 50, Regular n

Ticket Info:

REHAT FATEH ALI KHAN LIVE IN DOHA

Tickets are available online through Q-Tickets and Virgin Megastore, or directly at the following outlets:

Date: Friday, January 29

• Virgin Megastore • Ansar Gallery • Smile Hypermarket

Contact Info: Email Events@apexqatar.com, or visit www.apex.qa, www.qatar-event.com, or follow QIFF Doha and Apex Events on Facebook.

Location: Asian Town (formerly Old West End Park)

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ENTERTAINMENT

the third Comedian Jack Black is back in Panda animated installment of Kung Fu

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Black will lend his vocals to the lead character of Po the panda

By Jan Janssen Interview and selected images courtesy of Viva Press

From feisty, fighting luchadors (Nacho Libre) to rocking rebels (Tenacious D, School Of Rock), Jack Black has carved out a solid career as one of Hollywood’s top humourists with his brand of caricature-driven, physical comedy. Proof positive? The January release of Kung Fu Panda 3 marks a trilogy for the animated franchise, with Black back in the saddle voicing the well-loved role of Po. We caught up with the actor to talk shop.

ack Black makes you laugh just by the way he stares at you with a mock serious face before he lets a little curl creep onto his lips while he leers at you in sinister fashion. He's a master provocateur and easily one of the most affable men

you could ever want to meet. Utterly unpretentious, he lives for laughter. Unlike some comedians whose humour is a façade that conceals darker thoughts, Black brings a genuine sense of mirth to his being. Fabled for his manic zeal, Black has delighted audiences over the years with his work in a variety of comedies that include High Fidelity, School of Rock, Shallow Hal, Nacho Libre, Anchorman, and Tropic Thunder. He has also enjoyed starring roles in the big-budget remake of King Kong and the adventure comedy Gulliver's Travels. But one of his most successful screen turns has come as the voice of Po in the animated adventure series Kung Fu Panda where he invests his own cuddly persona into that of the bumbling panda. The first two Kung Fu Panda films in the DreamWorks Animation franchise have earned $1.3 billion dollars at the box-office thanks to inspired storytelling and Black's vocal gifts as well as those of Angelina Jolie (Tigress), Dustin Hoffman (Shifu), Jackie Chan (Monkey), and Seth Rogen (Mantis). Kung Fu 3 sees Po reunited with his long lost father, Li (Bryan Cranston of Breaking Bad fame), who journey together to a Shangri-La like secret panda paradise where they meet scores of fellow pandas.

But this idyllic life is threatened by the looming presence of the villainous Kai (J.K. Simmons, the Oscarwinning actor from Whiplash) who has been sweeping across China and defeating all the kung fu masters in his wake. This gives Po a new mission: to train a village full of his fun-loving brethren into becoming the ultimate band of Kung Fu panda warriors! Jack Black lives in Los Angeles in a sprawling sevenbedroom estate together with his cellist wife Tanya, and their two sons, Sammy, 9, and Tommy, 7. Black had first met Tanya in high school but only began to date her in 2005, twenty years afterwards. They were married in 2006 after Jack decided that it was time to settle down: "Before Tanya, I had always felt like marriage was not for me," Black recalled. "I didn’t like the way it worked out with my parents [who divorced when he was 10]. I didn’t ever want to be in a divorce, so I was never going to get married." "But then...something happened when I was working on King Kong. The fellow who plays King Kong, Andy Serkis, was there with his wife and kids, and he let me read a bedtime story to his kids. And I thought, ‘Oh, I should have a kid. I want to have a family.’ There was an emptiness that started to develop after that. Now I’m happiest just swimming with my boys in the ocean."

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ENTERTAINMENT QH: Jack, what can you tell us about the new adventures of Po in Kung Fu Panda 3? JB: Oh, Po has his work cut out for him. There's a lot more action this time around and there's also great joy in the life of Po who gets to meet his biological father â&#x20AC;&#x201C; although that makes his adopted father The Goose very jealous. Then his father takes him to their secret homeland and he gets to meet all these other amazing pandas. Then he has to train them to be kung fu masters so they can defeat this evil guy who's now threatening them. But we've got a great villain in J.K. Simmons which makes things interesting. QH: Does Po feel like he's in culture-shock after meeting all these other pandas? JB: He's kind of freaked out because this is the first time he gets to meet a female of his own species. So that takes some adjusting to on his part. QH: Do you remember what it was like for you when you first start paying attention to girls?

JB: I was the kind of kid who always wanted to be the centre of attention. But when I turned 13 or 14, girls started to become very important and I wanted to do anything to get noticed. I was incredibly shy when it came to girls, unfortunately, and I was always amazed by how some guys were able to talk and be very smooth with them. Being the class clown wasn't going to get girls to like me or pay attention to me, so I worked on my conversational skills. Then I started getting into music because that was also a way to impress girls. QH: Was that what turned you towards getting into show business? JB: It kind of got started when I was in high school and I went to audition for a part in a school musical. While I was singing, I noticed that this very pretty girl who has been standing in the hallway before I went was listening to me sing and she was very impressed. Her name was Heather. She had never been interested in me before, and suddenly I saw that performing was a pretty cool thing to do.

That day was a turning point in my life. I remember thinking: â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;From now on I'm going to sing! For the rest of my life! Because this attention feels good.â&#x20AC;&#x2122; That kind of set things in motion. QH: How did you go from music to comedy, though? JB: It was strange how it happened. I was playing my very first concert with my rock band, Tenacious D. We only had one original song in our playlist, the rest were all cover versions. But we rocked as hard as we could and tried to act like we were these very professional rock stars. Except the audience was laughing at us. We kept rocking and the people kept laughing. We failed miserably at being rock stars. So that's when I saw that the key was not taking ourselves so seriously and make fun of being rock musicians. That was also the moment when I realized that comedy was my real talent and that's where I put all my effort.

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QH: It took you a while before you became successful, though? JB: It took an eternity! My parents had to give me financial support while I was in my twenties because I would get one job, make a bit of money, then rent an apartment, then not be able to pay the rent, and have to move back in with my mother. It kept on going like that for years. I would find an apartment of my own, then go broke again, and move back to my Mom's.

L-R: Kung Fu Panda 3 co-stars Angelina Jolie, Jack Black and Dustin Hoffman

QH: How did you mother feel about that? JB: Oh, she loved having me in the house! At least that's what she says! [Smiles nervously and pretends to think about it.] No, my Mom was really cool. She's a great mom. QH: When did you really feel that you had made it?

would be able to pay my bills and not have to live in my mother's apartment! [Smiles]

JB: High Fidelity (2000) was the film that did it for me. I was 30 at the time and I had had lots of small roles in a lot of movies prior to that but nothing that would take me to the next level. But after that movie came out I had a lot more recognition. It made it much easier to go up for bigger parts because people really seemed to like my character in High Fidelity.

QH: You're raising two children. Do you often entertain your kids?

QH: Obviously, School Of Rock was a major turning point for you as well? JB: Oh, yeah. That film was written for me and my character (Dewey) is basically me. He was a guy who couldn't live without rock and that kind of reflected how desperate I was when I was younger to get into that scene. But unlike him, I knew that even if being a musician didn't work out I still had acting to keep me going. I had no idea what I would have done with my life if acting hadn't worked out, though. I just knew that I loved acting and that I love making people laugh. Success was never that important to me as long as I

Black behind the scenes in the voice-over studio

JB: No, I try to keep things pretty normal. I'm a regular Dad and I think kids also need a father who's someone they need to be able to rely on for advice and guidance in a serious way. I spend most of life working trying to be funny and entertaining, so when I'm at home I play it pretty straight. It's not that I'm super serious but I don't go out of my way to be funny, either. QH: Given your own occasionally wild teenage years, how are you going to prepare for when your own kids reach that age?

QH: You seem to have so much fun in your movies. Should your fans believe that it's your real self coming through?

JB: Oh, please, things are going so well right now, why do you want me to think about that? I don't know, my eldest is nine. I've got four years to prepare for that. But I think knowing that I did a lot of stupid things will make it easier for me to teach my children not to go down that path. I'm a very optimistic father!

JB: It's not an act, in that sense. I've always loved acting and entertaining and enjoying the attention that comes with it. I've always had that need to put on a show and experience the adrenaline rush that comes with that. Maybe it's a way of escaping, too, but all I know is that it's the best feeling in the world. I just love it. n

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ENTERTAINMENT

DJ W gets the night started with the freshest vocal deep house

Party Happenings By Jorge Granda

Lounge out in one of Noir's cushy private alcoves

ull of life, dramatic décor and unparalleled ambiance, Noir Lounge & Club currently stands out as a top contender for your Thursday night; or any night of the week for that matter. The newkid-on-the-block in Doha’s nightlife jungle, Noir only recently opened its doors this last November at the Meliá Doha. Under independent ownership from the hotel, the club will bring hot international DJ talent from Europe’s VIP lounge and club circuit to make Noir roar. We had the privilege of making the guest-list for its opening night party and the scene inside was nothing less than Tinseltown chic – but hearkening back to the Golden Age of film. We were told the club is staying away from being a ‘themed’ venue; instead, it draws inspiration from the Film Noir Hollywood genre with monochromatic styling, a beautifully carved backbar, intimate retro booths and other design elements that add welcome touches of privacy and sophistication.

Photography by Jessie Palanca

We explore the lush depths of the Meliá Doha’s newest nightlife offering – Noir Lounge & Club. Part sleek speak-easy, part chic dancefloor haven, it’s a welcome alternative for club-goers favouring a touch of secluded privacy over the boom-boombang of the bass.

Another aspect we like is how they’ve managed to create a nightclub atmosphere without the fog machines, flashing strobe-lights and blasting speakers right by your ear. You have the choice to bust a move on the dance-floor, or hang back in one of their curtained, secluded booths where you can enjoy refreshments and conversation without worrying about the decibel level. The music at Noir is top-notch calibre, playing vocal deep house, crossover R&B numbers, and re-mixed commercial hits. The crowd on this night is predominantly expat movers and shakers, looking to have a fantastic evening and finding themselves right in the middle of it. If you feel peckish, you can peruse their small plates menu and order up a sample of items. We were popping the chicken chupa-chups, beef sliders and crab-cakes like they were going out of style.

Though Noir seeks out a status in line with what you’d expect from an exclusive, posh nightclub – there’s no arrogant feeling to it. It’s a place to come, either after work with friends or as your weekend hotspot, and just chill and enjoy some music in a sultry ambiance. We haven’t visited Noir during the afternoon yet with the happy hour crowd, but we’re told it’s a laid-back vibe with great deals on nibbles and refreshments. It won’t be long before we’re back to make this vintage Hollywood haven our second home. n NOIR LOUNGE & CLUB Location: Mezzanine level, Meliá Doha Timings: Mon-Sat, 5:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. Dress Code: Smart casual. Their dress code prohibits (but is not limited to) shorts, caps, sneakers, sportswear including T-shirts, beachwear, excessive show-jewelry and prints deemed offensive to others. Entry: Free Contact Info: Call 5596-1414 or visit www.noirdoha.com.

NOIR THEME NIGHTS Happy Hour: Mon-Sat, 5:00 p.m. till 9:00 p.m., 50% off on everything. Bonnie: Ladies night on Tuesdays. 10:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. Each lady will get three free refreshments from a select menu. Clyde: Gents night on Wednesdays. 10:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. Each man will receive 2 for 1 on refreshments from a select menu. Prologue: Every Thursday, DJ W presents vocal deep house from 10:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. Epilogue: Every Friday the Ultra DJs collective presents exclusive house sets from 10:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m.

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VIRGIN RECOMMENDS

QH BRINGS YOU THE TOP STAFF PICKS FROM THE MEGASTORE

NAME: HASSAN ELWALY STORE SECTION: MUSIC TIME AT VIRGIN: 1½ YEARS

Best Part of My Job:“I really like Virgin because it’s an interesting place to be. You get to hear music while you work – which for me this is the best part! Plus, we’re a great team, so I’m very lucky to be working here.”

OMROH MA YEGHIB MOHAMED HAMAKI Egypt’s favourite musical heartthrob is back with his latest release, Omroh Ma Yeghib, meaning ‘I will never leave you’. Aw, how romantic! Expect more soulful, guitarstrumming ballads and Arab poetic lyricism at its finest with a selection of 15 eclectic tracks. Retail price: QR 35.

NOW (THE VERY BEST OF) DANCE This double-disc dynamo will turn your living room into a nightclub. Featuring charttopping tracks from Avicii, Ellie Goulding, John Newman, Calvin Harris and more, it’s the perfect compilation mix to break out at house parties, get you amped at the gym, or just sing along to in the car like no one’s watching. Retail price: QR 60.

OUR HOUSE IS YOUR HOUSE TODD TERRY All the way from London’s Ministry of Sound, mix-master Todd Terry brings down the house. From deep-vocal remixes of your favourite tracks, to one-of-a-kind collaborations with some of house music’s A-list artists, Terry serves up a two-disc treat for your aural senses. Retail price: QR 96.

HOW BIG, HOW BLUE, HOW BEAUTIFUL FLORENCE + THE MACHINE How much do we love this fierymaned songstress? Too much. Her newest work, How Big, How Blue, How Beautiful, marks her first foray into the realm of a concept record. Nominated for the 2015 Mercury Music Prize, fans can look forward to a new depth of power and poetry off the album as only Welch can pipe out. Retail price: QR 60.

THE BOOK OF SOULS IRON MAIDEN Was it Neil Young who said “Rock and roll will never die?” The men of Iron Maiden are proof positive that heavy metal doesn’t rust. The Book Of Souls marks the 16th studio album from the British rockers and we can’t get enough of it. From the commanding vocals of Bruce Dickinson, to Dave Murray’s thrashing riffs on ‘Speed Of Light’, the whole record’s a winner. Retail price: QR 95.

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Spotlight On Movies Ring in the New Year with your eyes glued to our top five January film favourites!

THE REVENANT

RIDE ALONG 2

Adventure, Drama, Western In an expedition of the uncharted American wilderness, legendary explorer Hugh Glass is brutally attacked by a bear and left for dead. Guided by sheer will and the love of his family, Glass must navigate a vicious winter in a relentless pursuit to live and find redemption. Stars: Leonardo DiCaprio, Tom Hardy, Domhnall Gleeson QH Fun Fact: Vegetarian Leo DiCaprio got so in-character for the lead role that he ate real raw meat in a scene where Glass survives off a wild bison’s liver. We can’t imagine what that tasted like!

Action, Comedy As his wedding day approaches, Ben Barber heads to Miami with his soon-to-be brother-in-law James to bring down a drug dealer who's supplying the streets of Atlanta with product. Stars: Kevin Hart, Ice Cube, Olivia Munn QH Fun Fact: Actor Ice Cube gained notoriety in 1989 as a member of seminal rap group N.W.A., whose first album, Straight Outta Compton, held no love for the L.A.P.D. Ironically, now he’s the one playing a cop on-screen…

Animation, Action, Adventure Continuing his ‘legendary adventures of awesomeness’, Po must face two hugely epic, but different threats: one supernatural and the other a little closer to his home. Stars: Jack Black, Angelina Jolie, Dustin Hoffman

KUNG FU PANDA 3

QH Fun Fact: Kai is the first Kung Fu Panda villain not to have a British accent. Blimey, it’s about time!

THE FOREST Horror An unexplained horror occurs in a Japanese forest – and that’s all we’re giving away! If you want to see the rest of this nail-biting, lost-in-the-woods fear-fest, then you’ll have to buy a ticket. Stars: Natalie Dormer, Taylor Kinney, Yukiyoshi Ozawa QH Fun Fact: The film is based on the real-life locale of Japan’s Aokigahara forest, a 35-square kilometre expanse of wooded land northwest of Mt. Fuji, where the trees are said to be haunted.

Drama, History, Thriller Based on real events, this film follows the American Coast Guard as they make a daring rescue attempt off the coast of Cape Cod after a pair of oil tankers are destroyed during a blizzard in 1952. Stars: Chris Pine, Ben Foster, Eric Bana QH Fun Fact: The original lifeboat used in the rescue is still on display today, in perfect condition, at Rock Harbor in Orleans, Massachusetts, U.S.A. The more you know!

THE FINEST HOURS

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ENTERTAINMENT

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

QH RECOMMENDS

HILTON DOHA Ladies Night

Tuesdays: High Heels. Don’t miss ladies night with open consumption from 10:00 p.m. till 12:00 a.m. every Tuesday. Listen to the best Arabic beats with DJ Imran and DJ Karim and don’t miss the Moroccan and Khaliji nights with Arabic singers. For more information call 5536-0347, 4423-3413, or email doha.restaurants@hilton.com.

Happy Hour Combo

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.

DOHA MARRIOTT 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 The View has to offer! For more information call 4429-8499.

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 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 in-style 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, newly-renovated 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.

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.

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.

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.

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ENTERTAINMENT 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 Cosmopolitan Ladies Night

Mondays: The Lounge. Enjoy a QR 20 promotion on any item from the cosmopolitan special refreshments menu, plus a complimentary choice from the nibbles menu. Entertainment by DJ Laura O'Shea. Ladies receive complimentary entrance, gentlemen pay QR 50, including a welcome beverage. From 8:00 p.m. till 12:00 midnight. For more information call 4405-3325, email restaurants.doha@kempinski.com, or visit www.kempinski.com/doha.

Sparkling Wednesday

Wednesdays: The Lounge. Enjoy 50% off the house refreshments and enjoy the entertainment by the DJ. Special refreshment menu starts from QR 30. Complimentary entrance. For more information call 4405-3325, email restaurants.doha@kempinski.com, or visit www.kempinski.com/doha.

Deep House Night Out

Thursdays: The Lounge. Enjoy this tech and deephouse night out with DJs Hamad Al-Obaidly, Tough Stuff and CrazyU. It’s the best Thursday night out. Entrance fees for ladies are complimentary, while gentlemen pay QR 60, including a welcome beverage. From 10:30 p.m. till 1:00 a.m. For more information call 4405-3325, email restaurants.doha@kempinski.com, or visit www.kempinski.com/doha.

LA CIGALE Flashback Night

Listings MARSA MALAZ KEMPINSKI Bohemia Sessions

Wed & Thurs: Bohemia. Enjoy a signature ambiance, innovative refreshments and chilled tunes and vibes from DJs Longplayer and B Sound. Spread the word and join the fun! 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.

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.

Tuesdays: Sky View. Sway the night away in a sparkling themed ambiance while the DJ spins vibrant disco tracks. Take a trip back to the 80’s and 90’s every Tuesday with the best English, French and Arabic hits, plus one welcome free beverage is offered to all ‘Flash-backers’. No entrance fee and no minimum charge. For more information call 4428-8888.

Prologue

MARRIOTT MARQUIS CITY CENTER DOHA After-Brunch Sessions

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.

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.

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.

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.

SHERATON DOHA Midnight Happy Hour

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.

Mystique Band

Daily Except Tuesdays: Dunes. Meet Mystique! Dunes welcomes its new band Mystique, which will perform every night except Tuesdays. From R&B and hip-hop, to classic rock and blues, there’s virtually no genre with which this band cannot enchant the crowd. For more information call 4448-1280, or 7021-8094.

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 guest-list-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.

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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

Qube Radisson Blu

4428-1428

Beach Bar Lounge The Four Seasons

4494-8888

Jazz Up Mövenpick Hotel Doha

4429-1111

Rocca The Grand Hyatt

4448-1234

Belgian Café InterContinental Doha

4484-4444

Lava Lounge InterContinental Doha

4484-4444

Shanghai Club Shangri-La Hotel Doha

4429-5000

Bohemia Marsa Malaz Kempinski

4035-5555

Level 23 The Ritz-Carlton

4448-4800

Shehrazad Radisson Blu

4428-1428

Bubbles On Two 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

4419-6100

4425-6666

Manhattan Radisson Blu

4453-5135

4448-1234

4484-8000

4015-8888

4446-0000

4408-7777

Madison Piano Bar La Cigale

4419-6100

Misturado Crowne Plaza Doha - The Business Park

Spike’s Lounge Doha Golf Club

4496-0777

Strata Lounge InterContinental Doha The City

4015-8888

The Den Shangri-La Hotel Doha

4429-5000

The Irish Harp Sheraton Doha

4485-4444

4428-1428

4428-8888

4428-1428

4408-7777

Noir Lounge & Club Meliá Doha

5596-1414

The Library Radisson Blu

Orion Radisson Blu

4428-1428

The Library Bar & Cigar Lounge The Four Seasons

4494-8888

Oyster Bay The St. Regis Doha

4446-0105

The Lounge Kempinski Residences & Suites

4405-3325

Paloma InterContinental Doha

4484-4444

Vintage Lounge The St. Regis Doha

4446-0105

Pearl Lounge Doha Marriott

4429-8888

Wahm W Doha

4453-5353

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ARTS & CULTURE

Top Picks

QATAR PHILHARMONIC ORCHESTRA Beethoven’s Emperor Concerto

Jan 24: Katara Opera House. Conductor and pianist Rudolf Buchbinder leads the Philharmonic in Ludwig van Beethoven’s Piano Concerto No. 1 in C Major, Op. 15, and Emperor Piano Concerto No. 5 in E Flat Major, Op. 73. 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.

QATAR CHINA 2016 Year Of Culture Launch

Begins Jan 21: With a focus on building bridges between nations, this yearly cultural exchange program aims to convey Qatar to an international audience. With the announcement of China as the 2016 partner, the public can expect a variety of exhibitions, festivals, competitions and events that promote mutual understanding, recognition and appreciation between countries. Visit www.qm.org.qa for updates on the full schedule of events.

QATAR MUSEUMS Luc Tuymans: Intolerance

Until Jan 30: Al Riwaq Gallery. Belgian artist Luc Tuymans is one of the key figures of a new generation of figurative painters, widely credited with having contributed to the revival of painting in the 1990’s and recognized as one of the most important living painters today. This exhibition is a comprehensive survey of his work – his first solo show in the Gulf region – and will include a series of wall paintings and a new body of work, 'The Arena', created specifically for the show. The exhibition will be curated by Lynne Cooke, Senior Curator of Special Projects in Modern Art at the National Gallery of Art Washington. Entry is free. For more information visit www.qm.org.qa.

QATAR MUSEUMS Harem Al Sultan: The Exhibition

Extended until Jan 10: QM Gallery, Building 10, Katara. The Magnificent Century series has become a television legend, a historical soap opera on the life of the Ottoman Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent that has now been watched by 300 million viewers in 54 countries. In this Special Edition: Harem Al Sultan, a unique exhibition brings the costumes, sets and ambiance of the series to Doha, revealing the stories behind the life of the Turkish conqueror and his love for the humble and beautiful Harem Sultan. Exhibition visitors will be transported back to the glorious world of Suleiman the Magnificent and see the artistry and craftsmanship that went into creating the iconic props and decors of the series. Free entry. For more information visit www.qatarturkey2015.qa.

IAID Broadway Jazz For Ladies

Saturdays: Hilal St., Al-Tadamon Signal, D-Ring Road. Broadway dance is different from other styles due to its fusion of ballet, jazz and modern elements, which allow for unconventional movements and stage-inspired production choreography. The use of theatre props such as canes, top hats and gloves are also popular in Broadway productions. For more information call 4432-0974 or 4441-1234, visit www.iaidonline.org, or email enquire@iaidonline.org.

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ARTS & CULTURE

By Ashlee Starratt Images courtesy of Shakespeare’s Globe

London’s Globe Theatre production of Shakespeare’s Hamlet will grace the stage in Souq Waqif’s Al Rayyan Theatre on January 13 for a single electric performance as part of the Globe To Globe Hamlet World Tour. The show marks the kick-off to the British Council’s Shakespeare Lives 2016 cultural program. QH takes five with Director Dominic Dromgoole.

o say William Shakespeare was an illustrious playwright is a somewhat understated observation, as, after four centuries, his stories are still being told in classrooms, community halls and theatres on the world-stage. Of all his great comedies, histories and tragedies, the iconic Hamlet is his apogée. A tale of madness, folly, revenge and politics, with a touch of dark humour, its stanzas have long been pored over and their nuances dissected, interpreted, and re-interpreted by students, scholars and bibliophiles alike. The stage production marks a first for Qatar as the renowned Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre makes its début with a one-night-only stopover on their Globe To Globe Hamlet World Tour. Recognized by UNESCO, and earning accolades worldwide for their cultural outreach initiatives, the performance in Qatar comes as the opening salvo of the British

Council’s Shakespeare Lives 2016 cultural program, under the patronage of H.E. Dr. Hamad bin Abdulaziz Al Kuwari, Minister of Culture, Arts and Heritage. Hamlet’s Director and Artistic Director of Shakespeare’s Globe, Dominic Dromgoole takes us behind the curtain. QH: The works of Shakespeare haven’t been widely staged in Qatar apart from two recent, local theatre productions from our very own Doha Players. Can you explain the longevity of his works and the appeal they continue to have to a broader cultural audience? DD: It's sort of shocking how relevant and pertinent and powerful he still is. He’s been gaining traction over the last twenty years, it seems almost exponentially. And I can only see that continuing over the next hundred or so, because there’s now a huge enthusiasm for Shakespeare in China, for example, and it’s growing in India. We are excited to see how our audience in Qatar reacts to our production and what they take from the play. QH: Shakespearean theatre is a new exposure for many spectators in Qatar. How would you sum up the plot of Hamlet for our readers? DD: Hamlet deals with themes concerning parents and children, rebellion and depression. A Danish prince seeking revenge for his father’s death is one plot line of the play, but we also have a romantic relationship between Hamlet and Ophelia, a fraternal relationship between Ophelia and Laertes

and, of course, it’s about politics too. The reason we wanted to tour this particular play, is because the themes are pretty universal and the play is so beautiful and so perfect in form – such a protean play – that it can respond in very different ways to different places. In some places it has challenged, in some inspired, in some consoled. QH: Hamlet is considered one of Shakespeare’s most iconic tragedies, with major themes being family dysfunction, revenge, politics, and descent into madness. What are some of the similarities and differences between Hamlet’s madness and that of Ophelia’s? DD: Both Hamlet and Ophelia are grief-stricken after their father’s deaths. So although the impetus is the same, their reaction is quite different –Polonius’ death results in Ophelia killing herself, whereas King Hamlet’s death results in Hamlet feigning madness and seeking revenge. QH: In 2014 the troupe embarked on a two-year world tour to all 205 nations called Hamlet Globe To Globe. How many cast and crew were involved, and what were some of the challenges performing for a different global audience every few weeks? DD: We are a company of 16 (twelve actors and four stage managers). We actually perform almost every other day; our schedule is incredibly tight as we are trying to get to every country in two years. The plan is to perform in every single country on Earth between April 23, 2014 and April 23, 2016. The former is the 450th anniversary of Shakespeare's birth, and the second is the quarter centenary of his death (for he is

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believed to have entered and exited life with uncanny timing, on the very same day of the year). For the company, the most challenging aspect is the travelling – often they set up in one day, perform and travel onto the next country that evening so it can be tiring. Other times the journeys are long. In Central America between Mexico, Belize, Guatemala, Honduras, El Salvador, Nicaragua and Costa Rica, the company travelled by bus. One of the journeys was over 16 hours long over thousands of kilometres. Again in Africa, between Kenya, Uganda and Rwanda there was another long bus journey, nevertheless, the journey becomes worthwhile when the company come face to face with incredible, enthusiastic local audiences. The actors can play multiple roles, so they swap in and out of the show and can give each other time off. Another challenge was in the Pacific islands, when we had to perform a light version of our show (with less set, props and costumes) as the planes were too small to carry our luggage! It was a fantastic experience however and the audience was amazingly receptive. It shows the power of Shakespeare and the ability to tell his stories with limited staging. QH: Hamlet Globe To Globe has been granted patronage under UNESCO for its community engagement work. Can you tell us more about Hamlet as a platform for cultural educational outreach? DD: We’ve been extremely lucky to be able to work with UNESCO and with small communities across the world. So far we’ve toured to 148 countries and performed to over 120,000 audience members since April 23, 2014, and 98 countries since December 2014. Some of these have included: • Performing outdoors in Sudan to an audience of 3,000 at the National Theatre in Khartoum (January 2015). • Performing in Somaliland as the first foreign company to stage a full play in 23 years. • Performing at the Zaatari Refugee Camp in Jordan. The show took place at the International Research & Development site in District 2 of the camp, with an audience of around 200 Syrian refugees. Photojournalist Sarah Lee documented the journey in this moving Guardian Picture Essay. Shakespeare’s Globe developed a strong relationship with UNESCO, UNHCR and IRD to make this possible. • At the time of writing, the Hamlet company is returning from Mandjou, in Eastern Cameroon where they performed to over 100 families, mostly children who had been displaced from the Central African Republic. Over the last year and a half the company has been involved in Q&A sessions with local audiences, has performed in local schools, including running a performance demonstration in a monastery in Myanmar, and a Shakespeare In Performance lecture for actors in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

Ladi Actors Tom Lawrence (left) and et) Emeruwa (right, portraying Haml face off across swords on-stage

QH: What were some of the more memorable locations the troupe has performed in? When touring through the developing world in particular, if stage facilities weren’t available, how did the team improvise?

Performing at the Chicago Shakespeare Theater

DD: It’s hard to pick the most memorable place, but I would say performing in Ukraine on the eve of the national elections with future president Poroshenko in the audience was very poignant. Performing to school children in Rwanda was also very moving, and made even more memorable when the power cut out and we had to move the performance outdoors. Playing in the tiny island of Tuvalu was very interesting, especially as the venue was a few metres away from where we landed the plane on the airport runway! Playing in Somaliland as the first foreign troupe to perform a full play in 25 years was special too.

Actress Amanda Wilkins in the role of Ophelia

QH: What message do you have for audiences that would encourage them to embrace Shakespeare’s Hamlet – what has been describe by critics and scholars as the pinnacle of his ‘collective genius’? DD: This production has captivated audiences across the world and we’re sure that it will do the same in Doha. We’ve had an amazingly varied reaction to the production. Some audiences have been very vocal, some very quiet but then erupt with enthusiasm at the curtain call. It’s amazing to see what the play means in each country, and how it resonates with audiences in different ways. It’s a witty, fast-paced version of Hamlet which uses 12 talented actors who all play musical instruments. We hope we offer a new, or renewed, love of Shakespeare to the audiences in Qatar. n

SHAKESPEARE’S GLOBE PRESENTS HAMLET Location: Al Rayyan Theatre, Souq Waqif Date: January 13, 2016 Timings: 7:30 p.m. till 10:00 p.m. Ticket Info: Tickets are free and can be ordered online at www.britishcouncil.qa. Contact Info: Visit www.shakespearesglobe.com, or www.britishcouncil.qa.

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ARTS & CULTURE

Mid-East Meets Far East By Shahmim Akram Selected images courtesy of Qatar Museums

QH learns more about Qatar Museums’ Years of Culture program which encourages mutual respect and understanding between partner countries. We’ll also reveal what you can expect from this year’s exciting cultural exchange – Qatar-China 2016!

ultural programs are developed in order to promote positive dialogue between partners in a bilateral exchange of socio-cultural similarities and differences. Qatar’s ‘Years of Culture’ program has successfully encouraged this interaction across a range of areas including art, education, business and culture.

The ‘Years of Culture’ was an innovative initiative developed to deepen the understanding between partner nations and their peoples through cultural exchange in the arts, heritage and sports. According to Aisha Ghanem al-Attiya, Cultural Diplomacy Project Manager at Qatar Museums, the program “helps Qatar and our cultural partners explore common values… using all forms of popular culture to challenge stereotypes, breaking down barriers between cultures, and opening minds.” Highlights of previous years include the Relics exhibition during Qatar-UK 2013, which was the largest collection of works by contemporary British artist Damien Hirst and attracted thousands of visitors to Doha. While the current The Hunt exhibition at the Museum of Islamic Art showcases the cultural traditions shared between Qatari and Turkish communities through a historic background of hunting and royal traditions.

When working with partner countries there is an emphasis upon building sustainable relationships between institutions and local communities through a meaningful exchange of ideas and discussions. Sports and athletic activities are also vital to the program with football playing an important role. Football skills and capoeira were highlighted during Qatar National Sport Day and the Brazil Festival during Qatar-Brazil 2014.While last November, the Qatar Football Association arranged a friendly match between Qatar and Turkey at Lekhwiya Stadium as part of the Qatar-Turkey 2015 program. The Qatar-China 2016 provisional program of events looks to be an interesting year of discussion and discourse through arts and cultural activities. Officials from Qatar and China have met, discussed and arranged the cultural, artistic and traditional activities for Qatar-China 2016. Although this year’s full program has not yet been released, QH was given a sneak peek into the planned schedule of events for the coming year.

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Coming to Qatar-China 2016: Artist Cai Guo-Qiang

exhibition will Qatar's Pearls: Jewels from the Sea to China take its travelling show on the road Qatar-Brazil 2014: Caio Vilela photography exhibition

The mystic beauty of the Longsheng Rice Terraces in China's northeast region

Qatar-UK 2013: Iconic British artist Damien Hirst

Qatar-Turkey 2015: Turkish photographer Hasan Yelken

Qatar-China 2016: What To Expect Qatar Museums will be announcing more details about events and activities when the Qatar-China 2016 Year of Culture is officially announced in a few weeks’ time. Further information about the program of events and specific details will be made available at a later date, but for now we can reveal the following events are scheduled for the current year.

Arts: Al Riwaq Gallery is expected to host the What About Art? exhibition in March which will showcase works by contemporary Chinese artists. Internationally acclaimed New York-based Chinese artist Cai Guo-Qiang has curated the exhibition. Guo-Qiang’s work has previously been showcased at Mathaf in 2011, where he explored the seafaring culture of the Arabian Gulf and the Islamic history of the Quanzhou region in China. Heritage: Silk, its discovery and production is an important part of China’s heritage and will be highlighted in a Chinese Silk Exhibition at Katara Cultural Village.

Culture: China’s film industry will be highlighted near the end of 2016 with a Chinese Movie Week in Qatar. Food: The Qatar International Food Festival, in collaboration with the Qatar Tourism Authority will, as usual, have a special ‘Year of Culture’ zone which will highlight the food, cuisine and culture of the partner country, China. Heritage: Qatar’s travelling exhibit Pearls: Jewels from the Sea will be making its way to China where it will showcase unique pearls and jewellery in order to teach the world about Qatar’s 5,000 year-old history of pearl-diving. Culture: The successful photography exchange program will take place again, where photographers from both nations will visit the partner country, meeting people and landmarks while photographing and sharing their experiences on social media. Their personal experiences will highlight cultural, ethnic and geographic diversity through a photography exhibition.

Entertainment: An open-air festival has been arranged to highlight Chinese culture and will feature musical and dance performances, crafts and the regional cuisine of China. The key achievement of this annual program is the cooperation and collaboration between the cultural and sporting bodies of Qatar and its partner countries. They work together to provide a varied and interesting schedule for the coming year which includes events and festivals across both nations. We’re looking forward to learning more about China, the people and its food! For more information on Qatar Museums’ Years of Culture visit www.qm.org.qa. n

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ARTS & CULTURE

By Rubina Singh Photography by Jessie Palanca

From the heartland of South America, few dances have proliferated worldwide quite like the Tango. With its fluid choreography and sultry rhythms, its movements are relished by amateur enthusiasts and professional performers alike. QH steps onto the dance-floor at the recent 3rd International Tango Dance Festival held at the InterContinental Doha to explore its roots in Qatar.

hile the exact origins of the Tango are lost in myth and an unrecorded history, the generally accepted theory is that it originated as a result of the intermixing of many cultures, as immigrants from African, Spanish, Italian, British, Polish, Russian descent swarmed into Argentina in the 1800’s and 1900’s in search of a better life. The worldwide spread of the tango came in the early 1900’s when wealthy sons of Argentinean society families introduced Tango to the Parisian nobility during their sojourns, and the dance took Paris by storm. Soon, Tango rapidly migrated to the other big capitals: London, Rome, Berlin... and finally New York! Since then its international appeal and popularity has scaled only in one direction. Not one to lag behind in anything fashionable, the small community in Qatar, boasts a large following,

as was evident during 3rd International Tango Dance Festival, which took place at the InterContinental Doha recently. Attended by almost 300 guests from 45 different countries, its success far exceeded any expectations – most of all of the organizer, Anil Kumar, a young man from India. Such is his passion to share the pleasure of this art-form, that even though anticipating a financial loss, he continues to organize the festival annually. “As in previous years, we were quite prepared to suffer a financial loss. But this year we were able to break even,” he says. Anil hails from a very humble background and started working at the young age of fifteen to support his family in India. A simple man at heart, his solution was equally simple. “This year I saved even harder throughout the year to be able to afford the loss,” he adds, as though the financial aspect

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The art of Tango is a form of communication between two dancers, without words

This yearly event continues to draw some of the world's most talented and prominent performers to Doha

is quite irrelevant. “The joy of sharing this passion and the gleam in people’s eyes as they leave at the end of the event is priceless,” he says, thanking the InterContinental Doha for their continued support of the Tango community. Bank executive by day and Tango dancer at night, Anil found his passion quite by chance and hopes the festival will provide a similar opportunity for others to experience its beauty and tranquillity. ”Tango is like playing chess, having a work-out, travelling through space and time, discovering a foreign culture, going to a concert, and exploring one's creativity.....all at the same time.” Asked to summarize the charm of Tango in a few words, Anil says, “Tango can be best described as having a warm conversation with very close friends. It encourages teamwork and communication is vital. It helps you to become healthier, both physically

and mentally, and it actually helps to improve your relationships with other people...It’s all about your love for Tango, and love always changes your life for the better in some way.” Not surprising then that Tango enthusiasts are known to travel to different countries just to attend its festivals...all for the love of dance.

have travelled, taught and inspired people all over the world. Also performing were the popular Colombian couple Ceser & Elizabeth, who for the last ten years have been living in Dubai, where they have their own dance studio and a very strong following.

“Tango is an opportunity to escape monotony; to immerse yourself into something that’s totally detached from the stress of everyday life, work or relationships. It’s an experience of becoming one with the music and in sync with another human being,” Anil emphasizes.

So, what are the opportunities available for dance enthusiasts in Qatar to learn Tango? Anil points out that apart from the workshop given by these groups during the festival “currently we have only one person teaching Tango in Doha. People can find information about these learning opportunities on Tango Club Qatar’s Facebook page” he pipes in.

The recent festival in Doha brought four performing groups of international standing to entertain the audience. Los Guardiola –the major representatives of Buenos Aires Tango Teatro – a form of Tango concocted by them, received undivided audience attention and endless applause. An extremely entertaining and unique performance, their originality lies in having created Tango shows which tell a story through mime and dance. The event also included other Argentinean dancers Walter Suquia Ayelen Sánchez and Florencia Labiano and Hernan Rodriguez, who

“Even the tango groups in Kuwait and Dubai have expressed their interest in being part of Tango Club Qatar’s activities,” Anil shares enthusiastically as the evening rolls to an end, highlighting its potential as a tourist attraction and inter-cultural exchange –a true example of the ability of art to bring societies together. n To learn more about Tango Club Qatar’s class schedule and next year’s festival event visit www.facebook.com/Tango.Qatar.

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ARTS & CULTURE

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By Ashlee Starratt Photography by Jessie Palanca

Alie and Lilya Bekirova share a lot. As twins, their love of music made them inseparable – but it was their talents on the violin that caught the ears of the world. After successful solo careers in Europe and Asia, the sisters from Uzbekistan have spent the last eight years performing with the Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra (QPO). QH catches up with them to talk music, teaching, philanthropy and sisterhood. QH: You’re both talented violinists; how did you find yourselves drawn to the same instrument? AB: The roots go back to our childhood memories where we were raised in a musician’s family. So there was no other option but to become musicians…and one morning we saw the concert of the very famous violin player called Vladimir Spivakov, and we ran over to our Mom and said 'We want to play this! This!’ LB: Then, the next New Year's Eve we got two small violins – and that's how it started. We were about five years-old. It was just for fun, but later on Mama discovered that we do have a musical gift so we went to the special Uspensky Music School in Taskent [Uzbek capital] and they recognized us as gifted musicians. It was our second or third year in the school, so mainly we decided to focus on violin. Since our characters are very ambitious it was a bit of a competition between us – but a healthy one! [Laughs] QH: Tell us about your background – you’re from Uzbekistan, but how did your journey bring you to Doha and the QPO? AB: We moved from Uzbekistan in 2000 and we were studying in Germany. We spent eight years there and came to Qatar accidentally. [Smiles]. We studied in Hanover at the High School for Music and Drama. The parents of our father come from Crimea and after the Second World War our parents were moved to Uzbekistan, so we were born there. We are not Uzbek by blood but by heritage. We are Crimean Tatar. LB: Actually it was my idea to audition for this orchestra and Alie just joined me. AB: No, no, no – It wasn't like that! [Laughing] I was spending time in South Korea and she called me in the middle of the night [saying] ‘Hey are you ready to play the audition in two days?' But I was still in Korea and it takes one day just to arrive back in Doha – so no, I wouldn't even consider it! And she

said 'Oh, but there's another chance to play in one week in Dortmund, Germany'. And I said ‘We'll see!’ LB: And I said, 'Well you have to decide now as I've already sent all your documents over there!' AB: We both auditioned and in two months we got a request to come over here [to Qatar]. We had already finished up our Bachelor studies and now we were starting a Masters so we could be flexible with our schedule. QH: Sisters –and especially twins – have an indelible bond growing up. Was it a surprise for your family when your career paths merged as one? LB: You know… our family really tried to separate us and they tried many times! [Laughing] We even tried to move to different cities but our profession always brought us together somehow – even here. Even after eight years in Germany we tried to be different and establish for ourselves [our own] private lives and everything. Somehow this chance [joining the QPO] brought us together again in one place. There’s no way to get really separated; we have families and we have kids. AB: And that's true that twins feel [intuitively] each other. There is a strong bond there – especially for identical twins. LB: Being identical doesn't mean we are the same! [Laughing] As personalities, we are very different and [also] our tastes, style, and our characters. Maybe this helps us keep being together…we are like two halves of one whole. We’re very emotional people – that's what we have in common. We help foster each other's ideas a lot and that helps create something new. QH: What were your reactions when you heard you’d both been accepted into the QPO? AB: Oops! [Laughs]. But actually we were expecting it, because we knew we could do well with this audition. We started to discuss the offer…it’s not easy to change your life after eight years. At this time we did have a solo career – we had a lot of projects, a lot of arrangements, and our managers were screaming ‘How come?!’ LB: But this was a new step [towards] something. Being a musician, you know…it’s a big adventure – you’re happy to have some new plans. We saw it from the outside and said ‘Let’s take this Arabic adventure for a few years and let’s see.’ We’re [those] who really take risks with pleasure – it’s our nature. QH: Have you always made it a point to work and perform together – or has there ever been a time when you went your separate ways professionally? LB: Not yet; we didn’t grow apart yet. But when we arrived here it was totally different. Going from being a solo performer to playing with an orchestra is a totally different feeling. It’s

interesting to be able to do this. We established the Chamber Orchestra our first year here in 2008 with our colleagues and we were very thankful they supported us, along with the Ministry of Culture. So we started to look for more opportunities to play more chamber music, and we eventually ended up teaching in the Qatar Music Academy where they offered us a position [for] String Ensemble with the kids. We ended up doing a fantastic performance for H.R.H. Prince Charles during his 2014 Royal visit [to Qatar] – it was amazing. AB: It’s kind of our mission to motivate the people here. You can offer them everything you know and they will take it. And you get excited when you see how the kids are treating the teachers – you can see in their eyes they want [to learn]. Once they’re given the opportunity they take it seriously and it’s fantastic. QH: Recall for us the most memorable performance of your careers. LB: 1998 – the Yehudi Menuhin Competition for Young Musicians. We took a President’s Prize there. He [Menuhin] gave it to us personally. Actually, this prize didn’t exist until he met us. He went into the room, he sat down on the table during our rehearsal, and we started playing for him a piece for two violins. AB: He asked us to perform something together at the gala concert because we were participating separately [in the competition]. So we chose a virtuoso piece and that was, I think, the most memorable because it was a very intimate atmosphere with this calibre of musician – we were able to talk to him and he was practicing with us. We were 15 years-old [and] these 20 to 30 minutes I will never forget in my life. QH: Do you have a favourite composer, arrangement or genre of music that you most enjoy playing? LB: We are very different. Never, ever do we play the same pieces – never. I am more [drawn to] lyrical, dramatic and virtuoso [pieces]. I always try to choose those with great theory –although I like classical and Baroque music as well, but I mostly focus on the virtuoso stuff. Though now, it’s changing. QH: How rigourous are your schedules with the QPO? Walk us through a season. LB: The Conductor of Honor we have right now, he’s a legend – Dmitrij Kitajenko – and we learn so much from him. This is absolutely the most amazing thing when you’re working with the QPO – you’re working with such amazing musicians it’s breathtaking …there’s so much to learn. He’s involving us in an absolutely different world of music and it’s necessary to be in touch with people like him. We are actually very, very lucky throughout our lives to have met some very well-known musicians and have the opportunity to work with them.

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ARTS & CULTURE

The Bekirova sisters are educating a new generation of musicians at Qatar Music Academy

LB: This is our baby and it’s starting to grow. In 2006 we were very much supported in Germany with genius people who helped us organize this foundation. We called it ‘Chances For Young Musicians’ with a focus on the countries where we come from. We definitely saw that nonfortunate kids couldn’t have any ability to come over for education, or even [afford] to have a proper instrument – so the foundation helps them access instruments and, then, opportunities to study.

Alie and Lilya Bekirova were photographed on location at Bilal Pearl Suites

AB: For the QPO, we have a pretty tight schedule right now. There’s a lot of recording coming up and very nice projects – which I can’t talk about them yet. They’re incredibly interesting and we’re really looking forward to that. QH: In addition to performing you also teach string ensemble at the Qatar Music Academy. How important is giving back to the next generation of musicians? AB: We feel very responsible for the development of all our students. Since our early years, we were not only performers – we really loved to share our knowledge. We were not only talented kids. It’s like our professors always saw something very special [in us] – and [as] two little girls playing violin, we could do something very special. This is not only an instrument – this is a soul for us both. Without this

[points to violin], there is no imagination of life and existence. But to share it with somebody, you have to have this ability first of all. Not everyone who plays, can teach. LB: I feel very fortunate to have such talented kids here, right from the beginning. They come back and say ‘Look Lilya, look Alie, I’m playing this ensemble’ or, ‘I’m playing in this orchestra!’ I think it’s so important from the beginning to make it clear [to the students] that you have to look at this as a responsibility and take it seriously. Some of our students expect to be in the Juilliard [School in New York] afterwards! We want to help our kids with what they’ve committed to, what they love, and what they want to do. QH: Tell us more about your Chances For Young Musicians foundation?

And now, luckily, after a lot of years finding the people to support this, we got the opportunity to buy some instruments that are already in the hands of those talented kids who are now studying in Germany. There are still a few kids in Ukraine and Tashkent waiting for me now, to also give them [instruments]. We want to have a small base in our own country – we’re studying there, we come from there. We’re [also] working hard to bring it out here [to Qatar] at the next opportunity. QH: What’s a typical day off look like for both of you? AB: I’m in love with tennis! Me and my daughter always used to be together for training and we used to spend a lot of time [playing]. Sport is something that was always there – but now it’s been minimized a little bit due to our tight schedule. But tennis, yes, is something we love and are passionate about. LB: And also we’re in love with Latin dancing. We were always very active as kids and even our husbands now – they think we’re still very active! n To learn more about Alie and Lilya Bekirova and the Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra visit www.qatarphilharmonicorchestra.org.

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

Until Feb 14, 2016: 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 ground-breaking 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 6:00 p.m. Closed on Mondays. For more information call 4402-8855 or visit www.mathaf.org.qa.

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

Until Sept 30, 2016: 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.

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.

e! s onlig.cnom See urha ppenin www.qata

MUSEUM OF ISLAMIC ART The Hunt: Princely Pursuits in Islamic Lands

Until Jan 9: Special Exhibitions Gallery, 1st Floor. Rich with symbolism and pageantry, hunting was an essential activity in the lifestyle of princes, sultans and pashas throughout the Islamic world. As such, images of the hunt in almost every medium are commonly found in Islamic art, whether in lavishly illustrated Shahnameh manuscripts, inlaid metalwork or colourful mina’i ceramics. Frequently commissioned and exhibited for royal display, such artworks form a significant component of collections held by prominent Qatari and Turkish museums. This exhibition draws on such artworks to explore and celebrate hunting and the related activities of polo, feasting and fighting. Free entry. For more information call 4422-4444 or visit www.mia.org.qa.

QATAR PHILHARMONIC ORCHESTRA Bonbons For String Quartet

Jan 14: Chamber Music at The Museum Of Islamic Art atrium. Featuring the talents of Islam Nour Eldin El-Hefnawy, violin; Mohammed Sharara, violin; Islam Abd El-Aziz, viola; Hassan Moataz El Molla, cello. The quartet will perform a selection of works including Giuseppe Verdi’s Music From La Forza del Destino, Claude Debussy’s Golliwogg’s Cakewalk, Arthur Sullivan’s Music From The Mikado and more. 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

Bach’s Toccata And Fugue In D Minor

Jan 16: Katara Opera House. Harout Fazlian conducts the Philharmonic in Johann Sebastian Bach’s Toccata in D Minor, BWV 565, arranged by Leopold Stokowski. Also on the program are Alexander Borodin’s In the Steppes of Central Asia, Aram Khachaturian’s Spartacus, Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky’s Hamlet, Fantasy Overture After Shakespeare, Op. 67 and more. 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.

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COMMUNITY

Top Picks

QATAR TOASTMASTERS The Art Of Public Speaking

Jan 10 & 24: Looking to develop communication and leadership skills? Want to build your selfconfidence? Look no further than 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 Hotel from 7:00 p.m. till 9:30 p.m. For more information call 5505-5275 or 5572-5293 or visit www.qatartoastmasters.net.

QATAR TOURISM AUTHORITY QBX Expo

Jan 10-12: Doha Exhibition & Convention Center. For the first time in the Middle East, Doha will host the 1st International Exhibition for Support Services and Business Solutions In Qatar. Encompassing every single business activity from start-ups to the most advanced business establishments, this exhibition will act as a direct communication channel between suppliers and the institutions seeking their services. For more information visit www.qbx-expo.com.

DOHA MUMS Friday Family Brunch

Ongoing: Join the Doha Mums for a Friday brunch with the whole family – a way for the adults to relax and for the kids to socialize. The venue for this event will change each week. To find out more and to join, email rsvp@dohamums.com.

DOHA YOUTH & JUNIOR CHOIRS Choir Auditions DOHA TWEETUPS Monthly Networking

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

Jan 9: The Doha Youth & Junior Choirs are looking for members ages 14-18 who can sing in the higher soprano or alto range, and also budding young vocalists ages 7-10 who enjoy singing. Both choirs will perform in Germany at the end of March 2016. For more information email info@dohayouthchoir.com, or visit www.dohayouthchoir.com.

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COMMUNITY By Emily Alp Photography by Jessie Palanca

In nature we see the face of creation. This month QH goes inside Qatar Foundation’s Qur’anic Botanic Garden where students are learning not only about horticulture, but also the subject of traditional plants and conservation principles outlined in the Holy Qur’an.

et’s face it, green space and environmental conservation are not Qatar’s strong suits. But the nation’s largest non-profit organization, Qatar Foundation, is sitting on a big project that aims to change this. As you read this, experts in horticulture and agriculture are implementing the world’s first Qur’anic Botanic Garden, based in Doha. The garden will feature both an open green space and a museum, together spanning around 2.2 hectares (22,000 m2).

“We are going to plant 58 species of plants that are mentioned in the Qur’an and Hadith,” says Fatima Saleh Al-Khulaifi, Project Manager, Qur’anic Botanic Garden. “Then in the museum, you will see the product of these plants–the seeds, the herbarium, etc.” According to its information catalogue, what’s unique about this garden is its meticulous inclusion of every species of plant mentioned in the Qur’an (20 species) as well as those in the Hadith and Sunnah (the sayings and traditions of the Prophet Muhammed [Peace Be Upon Him]) as adopted from the recognized and authentic sources of Sunnah (Sahih al-Sunnah). The garden also integrates scientific information so as to educate the public about the biological natures of the plants–specifically, their life cycles, unique properties and uses. Among its many important purposes, the garden is a place designed to help people make a connection between what they use on a daily basis and the many natural sources from which these products and items came, down to the most basic things, like food. “One of the teachers said that when she asked her students ‘where do we get fruit from?’ they said ‘from Carrefour,’” Al-Khulaifi explains. “So they have no idea where it originally came from. We have to rebuild this concept in our children, how the environment is important to them.” Of the many things discussed in the Qur’an, she says that the environment is often missed even though it takes up the most verses. “When the Prophet (PBUH) went back to Mecca, the first thing he said was that it was forbidden to cut trees [with the exception of one, called Izkhar].”

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The Qur'anic Botanic Garden will nts introduce a new generation of stude lates to the traditional plants and postu n. of nature highlighted in the Qur'a

Plants were mentioned in the Qur’an for several reasons, Al-Khulaifi explains, including the fact that they serve as great metaphors for living a life of virtue–if you are a person of good deeds, you will live a robust and healthy life, like a tree with good roots. Plant-life was also described as essential to our lives here on Earth, as resources that are to be respected and treated with care and moderation. Certain plants and trees, like date palms, henna and others, are mentioned for their medicinal and nutritional value, not to mention that they serve as excellent building materials for houses, floor mats, and a range of infrastructure used by locals up until the last generation. “Maybe people think that something else takes priority, and they forget that nature has priority,” Al-Khulaifi says. “They forget–and nobody blames them or any of us because we have grown up with technology and the way economics has been taught.This garden project is an effort to bring balance,” she continues. “ So people can say ‘yes, we have to take care of nature.’”

Horticulturalist Mohamed Mahdy Hassona

In addition to offering an educational green space to residents and influencing local attitudes toward nature, Qatar Foundation envisions the garden project as a bridge between Qatar and the rest of the world, environmentally and botanically, Al-Khulaifi says. “So many people outside Qatar are waiting for this botanical garden–they want to know what kinds of plants are mentioned in the Qur’an, to know professionally. This is not just for stories.” n To learn more about Qatar Foundation’s Qur’anic Botanic Garden visit www.qf.org.qa.

Assistant Researcher Ahmed El Gharib

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SPECIAL PROMOTION

Dr. Steffen Sommer, Principal of Doha College

Doha College students on a class trip to Nepal

at Heading towards the finish line the Doha College 5km & 10km Run.

A New Start To The Year By Dr. Steffen Sommer, Principal of Doha College Images courtesy of Doha College

For students returning back to school after the festive break, it’s time once again to hit the books. It’s also a time to look ahead, as the New Year – and all the months after – are what we make it. Whether it’s stronger academic success you’re aspiring towards, or setting your sights on the milestone of graduation, may 2016 be a fresh start full of new and fulfilling challenges and opportunities.

ith the winter holidays behind us it’s time to turn our minds to the year ahead. January is a time of reflection; looking back at previous achievements as well as mapping and planning our paths over the next 12 months.

Since my arrival in Doha last year I’ve been involved in some outstanding activities across the region. As the Principal of Doha College I am proud of the school’s community spirit and the level of responsibility demonstrated by the student body. As we watched tragedies such the Nepal earthquakes unfold last year, students took it upon themselves to provide as much assistance as possible. Their efforts were part of a broader community response to the country and it’s heartening to know that we can all rally together in times of need. As school resumes in the next few days, our senior students will also continue to fundraise for social issues both close to home and abroad. I believe this humanitarian outlook is being shaped by the awareness and empathy shown by the wider Doha community.

It’s not only been in times of trouble that we come together. As recently as last month, hundreds of people participated in the Doha College 5km and 10km Run. We had more than 650 people line up to race on the brisk winter’s morning at Aspire Zone. The purpose of the run, which celebrated its fifth year, is to encourage health and fitness. This aligns with Qatar’s vision for a healthy population by 2030 and we are pleased to be assisting in reaching this important goal. This year I witnessed my first Qatar National Day celebrations, and the patriotism and sense of festivity was outstanding to watch and bodes well as Qatar plans for another year of growth. Projects are gaining momentum as Qatar draws closer to milestone events such as the 2022 FIFA World Cup. At a family level, many of us will be considering our goals and aspirations for 2016. For senior students across Doha, the countdown will now be on for examinations and applications for further education. For others they will be looking forward to fun-filled weeks in the lead-up to the long summer break. At Doha College our calendar includes the Medical Review Schools Conference in February, a COBIS Teaching Conference on Creative Thinking in March, school musical productions and trips by primary and secondary students to countries such as Oman and Spain. I hope that you had an opportunity to rest and relax with family and friends during the winter school holidays. For those returning to schools across the region I wish you the very best for the New Year and hope you achieve your plans. n

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COMMUNITY

Slowing The Pace

By Jacqueline Bodnar

For new parents, raising an unhurried child in a world of touch-screen, grab-and-go urgency, where getting from Point A to Point B, means glossing over the journey in between, it may seem like the deck is stacked against them. We explore the positive effects that slowing down and being mindful can have towards a childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s development. 58 QH Jan 2016 - FINAL.indd 58

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s adults, most of us rush around at breakneck speed from the time our feet hit the floor in the morning until we fall into our beds much too late that night. We are in one big hurry after another and all for what? We think that all this ‘progress’ has created a nation of happy busy people. But are people really happier? If they were, there probably wouldn’t be so much road rage and short-fused tempers around. The unfortunate aspect is that it doesn’t just stop with adults. We rush our children around just the same. Think about how many times you may have seen your youngster stop to look at pretty flowers and you quickly prompt them along. Or the pre-teens and teens that have so many activities scheduled each week that the families need fast-food restaurants and calendars to make it through. We live in a society where we have come to think that more equals better. If we can fit in more in a day, we feel we are doing better. But that’s not necessarily true. And it wasn’t always like this. At one time, families spent more time together, children played freely without the stimulation from electronic entertainment, and the pace we lived our lives allowed for much more interaction and family time, including eating meals together. While it may seem like keeping the kids busy by rushing them all over town is a good idea, done on a regular basis it can actually be harmful. We parents need to re-think what we are doing as we start our day, especially after considering the facts.

Too Much, Too Fast “America’s youth are experiencing an emerging new problem: over-scheduling and a rushed lifestyle,” explains Dr. Maria Kelly, an American pediatric professor at the University of Florida. “These pressures have the potential to cause tremendous stress that is potentially damaging, not only to a child’s physical health, but also their psychological well-being.” Those pressures can come in several forms, including over-scheduling of extracurricular activities, the impact of rushed families, peer pressures, and even elevated parental expectations, according to Dr. Kelly. Further, those pressures are starting at an increasingly early age and they threaten individual children, families and society itself. What children need is more free play and less electronic stimulation and rushing around.

Wanted: Play Time The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) agrees that too much can be harmful. They report that play is essential to child and youth development because it contributes to the cognitive, physical, social, and emotional well-being. They also note that despite the benefits of play, it has been greatly reduced over the years for some children. When children engage in play, they are building skills that can be used over their lifetime. They get to use their creativity, imagination, and emotional and physical strength. It helps them create, explore and learn about the world they live in, while also gaining decision-making skills.

The problem in children getting enough time to play, according to the AAP, is that they are hurried to adapt into adult roles and prepare for their future at earlier ages. This comes as a result of parents who receive messages that a child that has a full plate of activity and is exposed to many different things will be more successful. In a parent’s attempt to make a ‘well-rounded’ child, the result is they may be stifling the development process. Additionally, the AAP reports that the hurried lifestyle is a source of stress for some children and it could contribute to depression. “Not only is play essential to the best success for adequate child development, it also creates an ideal opportunity for parents to engage with their children,” says Dr. Kelly. “Some of the best interactions of parents and children occur during downtime – talking, cooking together, playing sports together, working on an art project, or just being immersed in their child’s play.”

Slowing Down While we may not be able to do much about some of the obligations we have in our lives, such as our jobs or going to school, there is time we can free up to encourage more good old-fashioned free play. Even if you have specific days or times set aside for it, they will benefit. Other good options of things to do with your kids to encourage play and interaction include: • Having a family game night. • Encouraging unstructured time for allowing the child to determine what they want to play with. • Reading, whether together or separately, but at the same time. • Write a story with your child. • Using the imagination to do art projects, draw, play with clay, or paint. Or get some sidewalk chalk and let them create pictures on the ground. • Take a nature walk on the beach, around the block, or on a trail to stop, look and talk about what you see, hear and smell. • Bake something together. • Play blocks, dolls, or other simple toys with your child that require using the imagination.

Finding Balance The hustle and bustle of our daily life is not likely to see major changes overnight. But it’s really about finding balance, slowing down, and giving children a chance to develop. Before they know it, their childhood will be behind them and we don’t want what they see when looking back to be a blur because it went by at such a fast pace. “To balance the high-pace of our current lifestyles, it’s essential that parent’s recognize the importance of unscheduled time for their children to experience free play,” adds Dr. Kelly. “It is also imperative that they interact with their children during this important time. It is through these activities that their children will be most successful at developing the feelings of love, safety, and security that will help them be emotionally and psychologically competent, so they can thrive and succeed in an increasingly high-paced world.”n

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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

DOHA SCOTTISH DANCING CLUB Dance Classes

Jan 4, 11, 18 & 25: Doha English Speaking School. Those with an interest in participating in one of Scotland’s most traditional forms of dance can join the Doha Scottish Dancing Club for lessons. Classes are held from 7:00 p.m. till 9:00 p.m. on Mondays every month. The cost is QR 20 per class and there is no additional registration fee or membership requirement. Bring soft shoes and a bottle of water to stay hydrated. For more information email dohascottishdancing@gmail.com, or request to join the club’s Facebook page.

COUNTRY CONNECTIONS QATAR Relocation Services For Expats

Ongoing: If you’ve just 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 services that include assisting with accommodation and school searches, spousal support, city orientations, to providing information on 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 GARDEN CLUB The Green Box

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

DOHA MUMS Depression Support Group

Ongoing: For those of you who are feeling low and don’t know what’s wrong, but need someone to talk with, please join the Doha Mums every month at their Depression Support Group. This group will by no means be a cure but it will hopefully give you someone to talk to and let you know where to get professional help. Please get in touch if you could use the support of others who are in the same boat – together we can talk through this! For more information on location and timings email dsg@dohamums.com.

KATARA Beach & Water-Sports

Ongoing: One of the most beautiful natural beaches in Qatar, Katara’s private beach spans over 1.5 kms. Beach-goers have a choice between enjoying a relaxed beach experience and diving into the fun with a great variety of adrenalineboosting 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.

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

TOURS IN QATAR Zikreet Film City Tour

Ongoing: Get picked up by their 4X4 vehicles and drive 80kms to visit the Film City ‘set’, which mimics a mini Arabic town in the desert, complete with traditional mud-brick houses, a mosque, gates and walled ramparts with a look-out. From 9:00 a.m. till 1:00 p.m. including travel time, minimum of four people per tour. QR 350 for groups of ten or 12, QR 375 for groups of seven to nine, and QR 410 for groups of four to six. All prices are per person. For more information call 3325-3421 or 5579-8273.

Egyptian Women’s Association 5572-4171

French-Speaking Ladies Group 5559-7467

Indian Women’s Association 4442-4052

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

Red Dotters Qatar

5520-9294 Follow @RedDottersQatar on Twitter

Silver Dhow Association 4435-2598

Turkish Women’s Association www.twaq.org

Tuesday Ladies Group Email: tlgindoha@gmail.com

SASCOM: South Africans In Qatar

www.southafricansinqatar.netfirms.com

Canadians In Qatar

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

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Top Picks

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA It’s All Greek To Me

Sundays: Mykonos. Enjoy an extraordinary Greek dining experience complemented by a selection of mixed dips and salads, followed up with rustic Greek favourites and ending with homemade desserts. QR 150 per person. From 6:30 p.m. till 10:30 p.m. For more information call 4484-4919 or 4484-4444.

MARSA MALAZ KEMPINSKI Express Lunch

Sun-Thurs: Al Sufra. A traditional express lunch is now available in Al Sufra. Enjoy the special chef's green salad, a home-made Levantine main course of the day and end your meal with Arabic coffee and miniature baklava. QR 100 per person. For more information call 4035-5011, email restaurants.marsamalaz@kempinski.com, or visit www.kempinski.com/marsamalaz.

KEMPINSKI RESIDENCES & SUITES Early Bird Promotion

Daily: Aroma. Enjoy 50% off a selection of Chef Vinon’s famous culinary dishes paired with an exceptional sommelier’s selection in the sophisticated setting of Aroma. From 6:00 p.m. till 7:30 p.m. For more information call 4405-3325, email restaurants.doha@kempinski.com, or visit www.kempinski.com/doha.

THE FOUR SEASONS Friday Brunch

Fridays: Elements, Il Teatro and Arabica. The long-awaited, award-winning Four Seasons Friday Brunch is back. Start the weekend on a leisurely note with extended buffet stations in their newly-opened Element restaurant, plus Il Teatro and Arabica. Savour a wide array of offerings – from fresh seafood to sushi, Asian street food favourites, Arabic and Western selections and sumptuous desserts – matched by an all new setting of live-cooking stations that serve up an unforgettable backdrop for flavourful cuisine. Regular brunch is QR 340, and special beverage brunch is QR 440. For more information call 4494-8631.

THE RITZ-CARLTON Sommelier Table

Jan 15: La Mer. Experience a sumptuous tasting creation perfectly paired with the superb flavours of the hotel sommelier’s best grape offerings, while enjoying breath-taking views of Doha’s city skyline. Starts at 7:30 p.m. For more information call 4484-8000, or email rc.dohrz.leads@ritzcarlton.com.

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By Ashlee Starratt Photography by Jessie Palanca

From the sizzle of the griddle, to the mile-a-minute percussion of the chef’s spatulas – (was that an egg he cracked mid-air?) we’re in the mood for some Far East teppanyaki dinner theatre. Good thing that Sakura at the Radisson Blu is cooking with fire.

he Japanese method of teppanyaki grilling isn’t as ancient a tradition as you may think. In fact, it’s practice dates back just 70 years to the end of the Second World War when, in 1945, Japan’s Misono restaurant chain brought it to life in an attempt to blend Western-influenced foods with a distinctly Japanese style of preparation. At its root, the word teppanyaki breaks down to a Japanese noun, teppan (iron plate), and the verb yaki (grilled). Its culinary acclaim quickly spread beyond the borders of the island nation, gaining a firm foothold in the America of the swinging 60’s when there seemed to be a Benihana chain in at least

every major U.S. city. That was half a century ago. Today, we diners still love to be entertained while we eat – and if the food happens to be memorable while we’re at it, all the better. With this in mind, it’s with bellies growling that we head to Sakura for what we hope will be a lively, flavourful experience. Tucked away at the far end of the Radisson Blu’s west wing, getting there is a bit of treasure hunt as we pick our way past the tables of Hyde Park, their open-concept all-day dining buffet. Blink or you’ll miss it, on your left you’ll see a delicate Japanese curtain and the sign for Sakura. Duck under its flowing gauze and you’ll find yourself on a trail down the zen garden path to what feels like the secret grotto of the restaurant. The space is a retro throwback to the hey-day of teppanyaki (though really – has it ever gone out of fashion?). Seating is communal style around the large, central grill or spanned out across the high-topped sushi counter. For diners who prefer to enjoy their meal privately, the back of the restaurant is dotted with four-seater side-tables and two, curtained alcoves hiding secluded private dining dens. Full disclosure – this isn’t my first time at Sakura. It’s not even my second. I keep coming back for

the quality of the food and the level of ambiance; it’s a fun place to unwind with friends over some cold beverages and tasty fare, flame-grilled in front of you. The menu is varied and their selection of sashimi and maki rolls are also a draw for the sushi-lover. Tonight we’ve got front-row seats for the teppanyaki show, but before it starts we scan the menu to indulge in a few appetizers. It’s fairly quiet when we arrive, but before a long a group of half a dozen Japanese businessmen turn up and take one of the private rooms at the back. I order a warming bowl of miso soup to whet my appetite as there’s nothing more comforting on a chilly Doha evening. The chef prepares for us a selection of starters to nibble on while we wait for our sushi boat to arrive. We dig into a bento box of classic prawn tempura, a platter of buttery slices of salmon sashimi, and some crisp strips of tori kara age chicken, marinated in a sweet teriyaki glaze. All go down a treat. Part of the job as a restaurant reviewer is (eye-roll!) to take a lot of pictures of your food. Sometimes the end result is a masterpiece – other times an unrecognizable mess. But there’s no denying that the presentation of Japanese cuisine is simplistically artful.

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Tori kara age chicken drizzled in a sweet teriyaki glaze

Hot off the teppanyaki grill, stir-fried beef tenderloin and garlic-vegetable rice

Fresh salmon sashimi

Teppanyaki chef Michael sets the grill alight

When the sushi boat arrives, the camera comes out. There are layers of rainbow sashimi – salmon, tuna, and hamachi – their vibrant hues indicating the richness and freshness of the fish; there’s a tight-knit bundle of California rolls packed with creamy avocado and delicate, sweet shredded crab, and delightful nubbins of pop-in-your-mouth nigiri topped with flayed prawn, plump tuna, and hammour. It’s light, refreshing and – best of all – fairly healthy. There’s a reason why the Japanese are some of the longest-living people in the world: their diet. Crispy prawn tempura −piping hot

Sakura's colourful sushi boat

After savouring this marine bounty, we’re just about ready to sink our teeth into something flame-grilled. Cue Michael – our teppanyaki chef who’s got us covered. With a smile and spot-on sense of humour he shows us his moves with a spatula, creating a rhythmic symphony as he dices, juggles, tosses and stir-fries to the beat. Ever seen an egg yolk flipped mid-air without breaking? Neither had I until now. From heat comes flame – a dragon’s jet pluming from the onion ‘volcano’ and again as he sears our beef tenderloin to a perfect medium-rare. With all elements prepared theatre-style right on the grill, the final plating starred a

heaping mound of stir-fried veggies, toothsome cubes of tenderloin tossed in teriyaki sauce with thinly-sliced fried garlic, and a heaping mound of seasoned garlic -vegetable fried rice. All elements form an appetizing combination, balanced by the sweetness of the teriyaki and the rich smoky notes that you can only get from a grill. We’ve fed our hunger to the flames at Sakura. n SAKURA TEPPANYAKI & SUSHI BAR Location: Ground floor, west wing, Radisson Blu Timings: 6:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m., daily Average Meal Price: • QR 40, tori kara age chicken • QR 85, prawn tempura • QR 65, California maki roll • QR 55-QR 115, assorted sashimi • QR 40-QR 60, assorted nigiri • QR 190, 220gms beef tenderloin teppanyaki Licensed: Yes Smoking: No. Guests must exit the restaurant to smoke outside. Contact Info: Call 4428-1555

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The ultimate comfort food: beef stroganoff

Herb chicken with mango salsa − healthy and fresh!

The Business Of Lunch By Jorge Granda Selected images courtesy of the Mövenpick Hotel Doha Additional photography by Jessie Palanca

Seasons Restaurant at the Mövenpick Hotel Doha is affectionately remembered by life-long expats as one of the city’s oldest established eateries. But after a well-deserved revamp, ‘old’ doesn’t factor into its vocabulary anymore – though ‘taste’, ‘tradition’ and ‘variety’ still hold strong. QH stops by one lunchhour to savour the new décor and sample some culinary surprises.

t’s a sunny Tuesday afternoon when my friend and I arrive at Seasons, taste buds at the ready to try their new Business Lunch menu. Upon arrival we’re welcomed by Mövenpick Doha’s Marketing Manager, Gaynor Jones. After a nice conversation and few laughs she explains to us the new concept of the business lunch, which consists of a set menu featuring three different tempting combinations every day. We’re promised that all dishes are healthy and hearty at the same time. Before tucking into our repast we take in the restaurant’s new, trendy environs. Adorned in bright greens and reds, these touches of playful, yet classic colours and design elements have transformed Seasons into a totally different venue. The team has created an updated, more modern environment with a fresh, warm ambiance. Known for its popular Friday Family Brunch, the Business Lunch is quickly catching on to add to

the restaurant’s culinary repertoire. Our waiter approaches our table with a big smile to explain the list of options the chef will be sharing with us this afternoon. The two different choices on offer include a starter, a main course and dessert. To understand the concept properly we decide to try small portions from both. The first items to arrive from Menu #1 are the crisp Romaine salad with caramelized pecans, fresh berries, served with raspberry vinaigrette and, off Menu #2, their signature salad of fresh field greens, cucumber, watermelon, feta cheese, toasted almonds and tomatoes, served with pomegranate vinaigrette. Both appetizers are refreshing and luscious – a great start to our meal. As we move on to our mains, we eye the beef stroganoff – a slowly simmered sirloin in a rich sherry, mushroom, and sour cream sauce, served atop a bed of lush fettuccini. This dish is exquisite and flavorsome; the sauce is creamy, the beef soft and juicy, and the fettuccini cooked al dente. All the flavours are perfectly balanced and seasoned. The second platter to arrive on the table is the grilled herb chicken breast with mango salsa, served with island rice pilaf and green beans with red pepper strips. Like our first main, the two pieces of thin chicken fillets presented nicely on the plate are perfectly seasoned and well-prepared. I do like my chicken on the salty side so I add a pinch to get the kick I want. The mix of sweetness from the mango sauce and the saltiness of the chicken combine for the perfect bite, while the contrast of different colours from the other elements on the plate makes for a well-plated serving. We finish with a delicate assortment of mini-French pastries for a sweet ending, popping away bitesized fruit tarts, éclairs, cream puffs and chocolate mousses. If you find yourself extra peck-ish there’s always the option of ordering from the a la carte

Delectable petit fours make for a sweet ending

menu where you can choose from a selection of international dishes from Asia to Europe – although, really, the Business Lunch is more than ample. Seasons is open daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner with extensive buffet offerings for each meal. We’re also keen on their weekly theme nights, so if you haven’t ventured over yet here’s what you can look forward to: Asian Hawkers Market on Wednesday, Surf & Turf Thursday Night Brunch and a Great Sunday Roast among more. Mouth watering yet? Yes? It is? Table for two please! n NEW BUSINESS LUNCH Where: Seasons Restaurant, Mövenpick Hotel Doha Timings: 12:00 noon till 3:00 p.m., Sun-Thurs Prize: QR 75 per person with tea/coffee/soft drinks Licensed: Yes Smoking: On the terrace Contact Info: Call 4429-1111

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Chef Zarmig ads a zesty garnish of lemon to finish the plate

Lamb Cutlets With Eggplant Ingredients: • 300gms lamb cutlets • 2 eggplants • 4 tomatoes • 4 onions • 1 red pepper • 2 green chili peppers • 4 garlic cloves • 100gms chickpeas • 2 Tbsp chili paste • 2 Tbsp tomato paste • 3 cups beef broth • 2 Tbsp ghee • 2 Tbsp oil • Salt, pepper, red pepper flakes and dried mint to taste

Colourful, juicy and succulent lamb cutlets with eggplant

My Armenian Kitchen Photography by Jessie Palanca

January is a month where ‘winter warmers’ dominate menus citywide, and we’re hungry for some hearty fare. So stay with us as Mamig and Aziza restaurants’ Chef Zarmig prepares a special lamb dish that draws on the classic ingredients and well-loved flavours of Arabia, with a dash of her signature Armenian touch.

Directions: • In the cooking pan, brown the lamb cutlets in oil and ghee until caramelized. Add one cup of beef broth, let it boil, then reduce the heat and cook gently until the cutlets are tender. • Peel the eggplants and chop them into cubes. Then, chop the tomatoes, green chilies, red pepper, onions, and garlic, add them to the pan with the cutlets and cook for a few minutes. • Add the chickpeas, chili paste, tomato paste, dried mint, salt, pepper, red pepper and the remaining two cups of beef broth into the pan. Cook for ten minutes and serve. n For more information on the restaurants of Chef Zarmig visit www.mamigdoha.com and www.azizadoha.com.

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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 Celinia Serevilla charts her way across the Orient at Hwang in the InterContinental Doha The City. This is her review. QH: What did you order? CS: When we reached the restaurant they said no need to order anything because the chef himself will prepare us a selection of new dishes now available on the menu, along with some of their classic

options. We started with an order of Wasabi Prawns (QR 60), and a Malaysian rice-noodle soup with coconut milk, prawns, chicken, and sliced boiled eggs on top with fresh cilantro and mint. Next came a six-piece starter portion of Mixed Satay (QR 55) with grilled, marinated chicken and beef skewers with peanut sauce.

The presentation of the food was good – very pleasing to the eye and tasted great. They also served us a platter of desserts which included Pisang Goreng (QR 28) – deep-fried banana with a coconut milk caramel sauce and almond flakes, and a Pandan Crème Brulée (QR 35) with a caramelized sugar crust.

For the main courses, they served us Black Pepper Chicken (QR 55), a delicious portion sautéed with black pepper, onion and bell peppers, served with fresh cilantro on top; Prawns with Black Bean Sauce (QR 65) stir-fried with garlic; Thai Beef (QR 65) stir-fried with a savoury sauce on top of dried rice noodles and fresh cilantro; Seafood Rice (QR 100) featuring a medley of seafood, bright peas and egg, and garnished with fresh, shredded carrots and scallions; Mixed Vegetables (QR 60) stir-fried with cabbage, carrots, broccoli and green bell peppers.

QH: Were the prices reasonable?

All dishes were executed perfectly and the servings were enough for two to three people.

CS: The prices were so reasonable and affordable, knowing the fact that the restaurant is located inside the InterContinental Doha The City hotel. QH: Describe the ambiance. CS: Hwang restaurant is the perfect place for a meal if you’re looking for both exquisite and casual dining for family, friends and colleagues. The place is very comforting and the mood is very relaxing, with the touch of a traditional Asian atmosphere.

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A hearty bowl − Malaysian coconut rice-noodle soup

and Contest winner Celinia Serevilla t her family with Chef Ambrim Maha

QH: Describe the quality of the food. CS: From the starter to the main course and even the desserts and [beverages] – all are excellent. The food was perfectly cooked and well-presented. They have a unique taste to their food, which even my six-year-old son can eat.

n and Luscious skewers of mixed chicke t sauce beef satay with a piquant peanu

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

QH: Describe the quality of the service. CS: As a first-timer to Hwang restaurant, the overall experience was great – all the staff are friendly and smiling even though Thursday night was a busy time for them. QH: Would you go back? Why/why not? CS: Me and my family will surely come back to Hwang because I like the food and the place was so cozy. QH: Favourite thing about the restaurant? CS: The place itself. [Also], the food in the restaurant [includes] my favourites – I love eating seafood and Asian cuisine. QH: Least favourite thing about the restaurant? CS: I don’t have any least favourite [about] the restaurant.

CS: Yes, the experience was so perfect and you bet I will recommend the restaurant. QH: Could the overall experience be improved? If so, how? CS: The overall experience in the restaurant is good; from the staff and crew, to the chef, supervisor and manager, they’re all friendly and accommodating – making sure that your stay in their restaurant is worth an experience. I want to take this chance to thank Qatar Happening for being a winner on this contest. It’s really a great experience on my part having this opportunity [to be] a food critic since I love to eat. Also, thank you to the Hwang staff for the warm welcome – my family was so happy for the kind of treatment that they showed us during our stay there. And a special thanks to our Malaysian chef that day, Mr. Ambrim Mahat for cooking the food for us and Ms. Phia for serving us. Thank you so much Qatar Happening – keep up the good work. n

Sweet and spicy wasabi prawns

For more information on Hwang call 4015-8888 or email doharestaurants@ihg.com.

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

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

QH RECOMMENDS

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.

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

NOZOMI DOHA Now Open!

Daily Except Mondays: Nozomi is the award-winning 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.

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 Street Food

Thursdays: Street Food (formerly Gourmet Route).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 their live cooking stations entice your senses, bringing back memories of faraway places. For more information call 4429-8499.

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA THE CITY French Promotion Jan 19-Feb 13: Prime. ’La Maison Prime’ is a celebration of French cuisine, which features unique authentic French dishes.The French promotion will include raffle-draw prizes such as winning a dinner for four people prepared by French Executive Chef Emmanuel Pauliat. For more information call 4015-8888, or email doharestaurants@ihg.com.

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.

SHERATON DOHA Chef’s Table

Jan 17: Latino Steakhouse Restaurant. The secret to every true Latin meal comes from the soul of the chef. Once a month, Chef Luciano will take you on a fairytale that your taste buds will never forget. As you sit at the exclusive chef’s table, indulge in a fivecourse meal tailored around beef, with Latin-inspired refreshments and South American beverages. QR 500 per person. For more information call 4485-3000, email F&Breservations.Doha@sheraton.com, or visit www.latinodoha.com.

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 visitwww.kempinski.com/marsamalaz.

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.

CHOWKING Indo-Chinese Menu & Value Meals

Daily: Tuck in to the new flavours at Chowking with their delectable Indo-Chinese menu. Also, enjoy dinner for two for QR 70-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.

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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.

GRAND HERITAGE DOHA Friday Family Brunch

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.

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.

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FOOD & DINING 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.

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA The Drunch

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.

Hellenic Chill-Out

Daily: Mykonos. Every afternoon from 3:00 p.m. till 6:00 p.m., Mykonos transforms their outdoor terrace into a truly Mediterranean chill-out lounge where you can enjoy a selection of refreshments while listening to the best house music. For more information call 4484-4919 or 4484-4444.

Belgian Casserole Cook-Off

Daily: Belgian Café. Enjoy an all-day menu with special stew dishes and Belgian refreshments to keep you warm for the month of January. 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 mouthwatering 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.

Listings 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.

KEMPINSKI RESIDENCES & SUITES Chef's Table Surprise Menu

Daily: Aroma. Join a theatrical performance from the culinary team as they create art right in front of you on your dining table. A surprise menu for six people is available with prior reservation in Aroma. QR 950 per person. 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.

Steak & Grapes Menu

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 redefined business lunch menu, brought to you by Executive Chef Vinon Yergu. Aroma offers a creative two or three-course menu by using fresh and locallyfarmed 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.

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.

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.

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, freshly-baked 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.

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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.

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 freshly-prepared 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-for-one 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.

1001 Nights Chef's Choice Menu

Daily: Al Sufra. This surprise feast menu takes you on a journey through the Levant cuisines, designed by Al Sufra's Head Chef Julien Al-Khal. QR 900 for two people including soft beverages. From 7:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4035-5011, email restaurants.marsamalaz@kempinski.com, or visit www.kempinski.com/marsamalaz.

Levant Lunch

Mon-Sat: Al Sufra. The rich, traditional Arabic recipes of Al Sufra are now available for lunch. Have a relaxing break from work and indulge in comforting, homemade food, prepared by the expert culinary team at Al Sufra. 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.

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.

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FOOD & DINING 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 beverageof-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.

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.

Listings 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.

Weekend Lunch

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.

SHARQ VILLAGE & SPA Oyster Feast

Mon & Thurs: Al Dana. Sourced directly from the cold waters of Northern Europe, your favourite catch is prepared in a varied selection of flavours and sizes. QR 15 per piece. For more information call 4425-6666, email rc.dohsq.reservations@ritzcarlton.com, or visit www.ritzcarlton.com/sharqvillage.

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.

THE FOUR SEASONS Piatto Unico

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.

Kanpai At Nobu

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 GRAND HYATT Curry Nights

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

Chatuchak Weekend Market Brunch

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

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.

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.

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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, QR 395 per person including house 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.

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 andhomemade 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.

Chef’s Table

Daily: Astor Grill. Book the Chef’s Table, get up close to the Astor Grill culinary team andenjoy 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

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.

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.

THE TORCH DOHA Fine Steaks & Prime Cuts

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.

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FOOD & DINING 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 Pan-Latin Perfection

Mon-Sat: Toro Toro is a creative blend of PanLatin 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

Listings 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.

Vietnamese Tuesdays

Tuesdays: Spice Market. Inspired by the vibrant street-life of Southeast Asia, Spice Market introduces an all new Vietnamese night. It’s all about the balance of flavours, the yin and yang, the sweet and salty, the fresh and fermented, spread across eight courses prepared every Sunday at Spice Market. QR 150 per person. For more information call 4453-5135 or email bnfreservations.wdoha@whotels.com.

WYNDHAM GRAND REGENCY Business Lunch

Sun-Thurs: Tangia Restaurant. Enjoy an authentic Moroccan Business Lunch in Tangia restaurant with a three-course set menu for only QR 87 per person including beverages. From 12:00 noon till 3:00 p.m. For more information call 4434-3203/3333, email wgrf&b@wyndham.com, or visit www.wyndhamgrandregency.com.

Moroccan Brunch

Fri & Sat: Tangia Restaurant. Tangia restaurant presents a traditional Moroccan brunch with a variety of tagines, salads and Moroccan bread for only QR 149 per person. From 12:00 noon till 4:00 p.m. For more information call 4434-3203/3333, emailwgrf&b@wyndham.com, or visit www.wyndhamgrandregency.com.

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.

Chinese Bliss

Burger Night

Sushi Fiesta

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.

Thursdays: Chopsticks Restaurant. Chopsticks is serving a delightful Chinese-food dinner buffet for only QR 169. From 6:30 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4434-3203/3333, email wgrf&b@wyndham.com, or visit www.wyndhamgrandregency.com.

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

HDC RESTAURANTS AT THE PEARL-QATAR 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.

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FOOD & DINING

Directory

Blue Restaurant Grand Heritage Doha Nozomi Doha Marsa Malaz Kempinski

SPANISH & TEX-MEX Aceite 4018-8894 Chili’s 4466-0663 4035-5555 El Faro Fuego 4429-5000 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

INTERNATIONAL 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 4424-2888 Al Liwan Restaurant Al Matbakh Rooftop Grill 4433-6777 Baraha 4447-0000 4472-2666 Blue Brasserie Restaurant 4402-3333 Choices Corniche 4429-8888 Cosmo 4424-7777 4419-6100 Crossroads Kitchen 4424-7777 Executive Club Lounge Flying Carpet 4446-5600 Grand Gourmet 4434-3333 La Cigalon Restaurant 4428-8888 Mawasem 4423-3333 4436-0606 Nando’s Delivery Hotline Panorama 4446-5600 4429-5000 Pool Bar Pool Grill 4494-8600 Sridan 4429-5000 The Dining Room (Al Najada Boutique Hotel) 4433-6666 4448-1234 The Grill 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

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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

Maxim Radisson Blu

Sukar Pasha Ottoman Lounge Katara

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

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's 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

CAFÉS Alison Nelson’s Chocolate Ba 4495-3876, Ext. 1311 Al Jalsa 4425-6666 Al Kut Lounge 4434-3203 Allegria 4485-3000 Anima Gallery & Lounge 4002 7437 Arabica 4494-8600 4449-3963 Aspire Grand Café Atrium 4424-7777 Atrium Lounge 4485-4444 4448-1282 Biscotti Café Murano 4035-5555 Chac’Late 4408-2000 Gourmet House 4405-3333 Jones the Grocer 4407-7175 Le Gourmet 4436-1789 4429-5000 Lobby Lounge 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 Orangery Café Troittor 4428-8888 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

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SPORTS

Top Picks

QATAR FOOTBALL ASSOCIATION 2016 AFC U-23 Championship

Jan 12-30: A total of 16 teams qualified to play in the final tournament, including Qatar who qualified automatically as hosts.The tournament will be played at the Al Sadd, Al Arabi, Qatar Sports Club and Lekhwiya Stadiums. The top three teams of the final tournament will qualify for the 2016 Summer Olympics men's football tournament in Brazil. For more information visit www.olympic.qa.

QATAR GOLF ASSOCIATION 19th Commercial Bank Qatar Masters

Jan 27-30: Qatar Golf Club. The 19th Commercial Bank Qatar Masters will be staged at the Doha Golf Club from Wednesday, January 27, to Saturday January 30.The highly-anticipated tournament is the must-attend sporting and social event of the year, known for bringing together the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s best golf talent. For more information visit www.qatar-masters.com.

THE FOUR SEASONS Morning Toning

Ongoing: Join a dynamic intermediate-level class and get ready to condition your whole body using dumbbells, bands, bars and body-weight as resistance tools. Engage in a full-body workout designed to get your heart rate up and prepare you for the day to come. Exercises will be modified to accommodate all fitness levels. QR 60 per person. For more information call 4494-8888.

DOHA MARRIOTT Muay Thai Kickboxing SHARQ VILLAGE & SPA Personal Training Promotion

January: Six Senses Spa. Buy ten Personal Training sessions and get one complimentary session of Fusionetics Enhanced Screening. Buy one month unlimited Personal Training and get one week of complimentary sessions. For more information call 4425-6999/6995.

Wed & Sat: Strengthen your full body with an all-new Muay Thai kickboxing class. Learn how to gain intensified strength, speed and concentration! Great for body strengthening and weight-loss, core strengthening and toning. From 6:00 p.m. till 7:00 p.m. For more information call 4429-8520.

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SPORTS Spain's Rafael Nadal

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France's Richard Gasquet

2015 champion, Spaniard David Ferrer

The Entertainment Set-up of the Public Village, VIP Village, and Kids Zone are now underway and the venue is being transformed into an interactive, entertaining home for tennis and much more during the first week of the New Year. The Public Village offers fun and entertainment for the entire family – when not courtside watching matches, fans can take part in a variety of activities on offer there. The Food Court is located to the left of the Public Village where food and beverages can be purchased from top vendors such as Pizza Hut, Asiana, Arby’s, Sterling Fast Food, TCBY and Coffee Beanery. The ExxonMobil booth is always a favourite among fans and ATP World Tour players who stop by daily to sign autographs. The VIP Village provides an opportunity for fans to mingle with players, sponsors and other VIP guests – all in a luxurious and relaxing atmosphere. Guests can enjoy a variety of international cuisines, live stations and beverages, while some of the best lounge DJ’s in the city provide music throughout the event. Guests can collect their copy of the Official Tournament Program at the VIP Reception Desk, purchase official Qatar Tennis Federation merchandise, strike up a conversation with other VIP guests over espresso at the coffee corner, and even meet a tennis star.

Czech powerhouse Tomáš Berdych

As told to Jorge Granda Selected Images courtesy of the Qatar Tennis Federation Additional photography by Jessie Palanca

Ferrer, Djokovic, Nadal – tennis’ greatest ambassadors are once again facing off across the net at the Qatar ExxonMobil Open 2016 from January 4-9 at the Khalifa International Tennis & Squash Complex. QH brings you the star-studded line-up.

ome of the world’s top male tennis players will set the courts of the Khalifa International Tennis & Squash Complex on fire this January as they battle it out for the coveted title and prize money. The Qatar ExxonMobil Open provides players the chance to get a footing on the circuit before traveling to the Australian Open.

Leading the field is World No. 1 from Serbia, Novak Djokovic, who’s returning to Doha after a 2015 season that saw him win 11 titles in many events including the US Open, Australian Open and Wimbledon. This is Djokovic’s second appearance in the Qatari capital. Also making an appearance in the tournament is Spaniard Rafael Nadal, the World No. 5. In 2015, ‘Rafa’ won three titles (Hamburg, Stuttgart and Buenos Aires). Tomas Berdych, World No. 6, from the Czech Republic, is making his third appearance at this year’s event. The winner of 12 singles career titles, he won two titles in 2015 –Stockholm and Shenzhen. Defending Champion and World No.7, Spaniard David Ferrer, makes a return to Qatar to see if he can win another Doha title. David has won five titles in 2015 – in Vienna, Kuala Lumpur, Acapulco and Rio de Janeiro, in addition to Doha.

Ticket Info Tickets are on sale at www.qatartennis.org and at the following locations: City Center, Lagoona, and Landmark Malls, and the Khalifa International Tennis & Squash Complex. Ticket kiosks will be open daily from 10:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. • Center Court tickets grant access to the Center Court, the Outside Match Courts and the Complex. • Ground passes provide access to the Outside Match Courts and the Complex only. • Lower Sections and Middle B have reserved numbered seating. • Middle A and C and Upper A, B and C stands do not have numbered seating and seating allocation is on a first-come-first-serve basis. n For updated information and match schedules for the Qatar ExxonMobil Open 2016 visit www.qatartennis.org.

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SPORTS

Engines On! As told to Jorge Granda

The first Qatar Motorcycle Festival will peel into Doha from January 14-16 at Katara Cultural Village. With more than 1,200 bikers taking part in the action, the rubber’s about to hit the road in full force! QH has the highlights.

he first Qatar Motorcycle Festival is coming to Doha courtesy of The Changers, a youth organization which is part of Reach Out To Asia (ROTA) – a member of Qatar Foundation and guided by Her Highness Sheikha Al Mayassa bint Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, Chairperson of ROTA. The project will be sponsored by the

Qatar Motor and Motorcycle Federation (QMMF) along with other partners such as Katara Cultural Village and the Qatar Racing Club (QRC).

The festival kicks off on Thursday, January 14 and will last for three days until Saturday, January 16, with all programs and events held from 3:00 p.m. till 10:00 p.m. during these days.

The festival’s main purpose is to promote the appropriate concept of motorcycling and road safety awareness among the Qatari community. Along with preserving the national and Islamic identity, the Qatar Motorcycle Festival will provide the ideal opportunity to build relations and exchange ideas among bikers and the general public.

Competitions and entertainment will include GCC Bike Shows and other stage performances for the audience to enjoy, plus a variety of programs and workshops targeting families, youth and teenagers. We’re already shining our chrome wheels in anticipation! n

More than 1,200 riders are expected to participate from around the region, offering a unique experience to the audience so they can discover the world of motorcycling and interact with the professionals and experts in its field.

QATAR MOTORCYCLE FESTIVAL Date: January 14-16 Location: Katara Cultural Village, parking area near the beach Timings: 3:00 p.m. till 10:00 p.m. Contact Info: www.qatarmotorcyclefestival.qa

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SPECIAL PROMOTION

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Take The HIT By Flavio Rodriguez

High-intensity training (HIT) is seeing a resurgence in the gym, as more fitness practitioners are choosing this style of workout to gain faster, more overall results. From bodyweight exercises, to cardio burn, the experts at EVOLVE – Mind/Body/Soul whip us into shape.

ragged myself to the gym and plodded on the treadmill for half an hour until I got bored and left."

Does this sound like you after the gym? You’ve worked up a sweat, zoned out and felt like you did something, sure; but are you really seeing significant results in your fitness levels? Are you happy with the body-shape this monotonous routine gives you? If not then it’s time to try something else before the gym becomes a no-go zone due to boredom. You’ve probably heard the words ‘high-intensity training’ or ‘HIT’ thrown around. But what exactly is this style of training and why should I choose it over steady-state cardio like running or swimming? In a nutshell, HIT training incorporates short and intense periods of work with limited rest throughout the workout. A session can be put together using various pieces of equipment such as kettle bells, battle ropes, or a rowing machine just to name a few. It can also incorporate Olympic lifts or merely using bodyweight exercises and space to run. The variations of workouts are endless, and people of all fitness levels can participate if it’s scaled accordingly to the individual’s needs – this isn’t just for the Cross-Fit junkie, but for you too.

A Trainer’s Perspective Throughout my swimming career, plodding up and down the pool everyday eventually wore me out. I would love getting out of the pool and under the shower, feeling the fatigue in all my muscles as I struggled to wash my hair. This was soreness I wouldn’t get from a weights session in the gym – it was a different type of fatigue. However, it would take me two hours to get to this state. Even after I’d quit swimming and began to run, I would only get that feeling after a good hour of running...and only in my legs of course – not full-body. My HIT training days were born due to an ankle injury. Unable to run and with no access to a pool, I longed to get that full-body fatigue feeling back after a training session and HIT was my answer.

How HIT Works This style of training can incorporate strength, power, speed, with explosive, anaerobic and plyometric exercises all in one session, to

benefit from each type of training. Implementing short periods of work and limiting rest periods before moving on is where the secret lies. Due to this, your muscles aren’t being replenished with sufficient oxygen fast enough – it’s stored only to be used post-workout as you return back to your normal self. Think about that quick dash to catch the bus; you only start huffing and puffing once you’ve stopped. Studies show that after a HIT class it can take hours for your body to return to its resting metabolic rate, which in turn has you blasting calories after it’s done. It will also reduce body-fat at a much faster rate, plus increase muscle mass.

Sprinter vs. Marathon When deciding which body you aspire to have, most men lean towards the the sprinter’s Herculean build rather than a long-distance runner’s stringy look. Now, look at how they train. One runs for hours on end decreasing testosterone levels, weakening the immune system and halting any strength and muscle gains. While the other packages all the following into his workout to make him a lean mean running machine: power, explosiveness, strength and speed – all compositions of a HIT class.

Time Is Precious So you’re looking like a Greek statue due to your new-found love for HIT and realized that you have much more spare time on your hands. That’s because it’s taking you half the time to get a session in than before. A great class can be done in 45 minutes or less, giving you better results than ever. Due to the intensity and impact I would limit it to two or three per week depending on the intensity, as it can take a toll on your body. Workouts can be as short as four to eight minutes thanks to Tabata training (check out various examples online). Struggling to get to the gym? Try one of these Tabata sessions at home. Remember, your bodyweight is all you need.

Chest, Back & Cardiac Muscles Your heart, of course, is a muscle that’s often neglected when pumping iron six days a week. Improving heart health and boosting cardiovascular fitness will be taken care of when carrying out high-intensity training.

I’m In, HIT Me! EVOLVE – Mind/Body/Soul are a wellness company that offers a variety of classes, including HIT programs from two locations at B/Attitude Spa and The Grand Hyatt. For exact class schedules and timings call 5040-3234. 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

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SPORTS

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

QH RECOMMENDS

LA CIGALE Tone & Shape

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

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.

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA TRX Fitness

Sun & Tues: Another name for this challenging class is suspension training. Participants will be working against gravity using their own body-weight 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.

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 Ladies Fitness Fusion

Wednesdays: Discover and unleash your hidden inner potential during this high-powered, fun-packed, energizing workout! From 10:00 a.m. till 11:00 a.m. Available for ladies only. 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.

Introduction To Boxing 101

Wednesdays: Are you a beginner? No problem! Join in every first and second Wednesday of the month and enjoy an introduction to boxing classes. From 7:00 p.m. till 8:00 p.m. For more information call 4429-8520.

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA Fitball

Sundays: Fitball is an effective body-conditioning class for all fitness levels and has been a huge success in changing peopleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s lives, making them feel stronger, prepared for more physical-impact exercises, and overcoming physical and emotional barriers. The fitball sessions are welcoming with a relaxed, supportive atmosphere. All classes are small and friendly. Members QR 30/non-members QR 50. From 9:30 a.m. till 10:30 a.m. For more information call 4484-4852.

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.

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.

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.

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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

Activities & Clubs Bike Riding The Corniche Aspire Park

Bowling

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

Golf

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

Horse Riding

Al Khor Riding Center 4421-8857

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.

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

Special Abs

Winter Wonderland (City Center) 4483-9162

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 non-members. 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 Shaqab Riding Academy 4454-6236 or www.alshaqab.com

Ice-Skating

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

See us online! www.qatarhappening.com

Tennis & Squash

Khalifa Tennis & Squash Complex 4440-9666

Walking

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

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QH SENSATIONS

Top Picks

B/ATTITUDE SPA D/Code Wellness

Upon request: D/Code is a pioneering concept in Qatar that combines cutting-edge science to unlock clientsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; genetic data and lifestyle patterns, translating it into a clear, detailed wellness plan through personalized coaching and holistic wellness solutions. For more information call 4412-2046.

THE FOUR SEASONS Winter Magic

Daily: Spa & Wellness Centre. Enjoy a body scrub followed by hot stone massage and Marine Radiance facial that cocoons your senses. QR 1,325 per person, for 2 Â˝ hours. For more information call 4494-8802.

MARSA MALAZ KEMPINSKI Back To Face

Upon request: Spa by Clarins. Restore your skin's inner glow and youthful vitality. The treatment begins with a comforting back massage to melt away muscular tension. The luxury facial powers your skin with age-fighting, firming and skinrenewing ingredients such as ginseng, lemon-thyme and green banana. QR 800 per person, including full access to all spa and wellness facilities. For more information call 4035-5555, email spa.marsamalaz@kempinski.com, or visit www.kempinski.com/marsamalaz.

LA CIGALE Hammam Treatment

Upon request: Ozone Gym & Spa. Looking for an unforgettable hammam treatment experience? Ozone Spa has introduced new Moroccan products for the ultimate rejuvenation. For more information call 4428-8101.

DOHA MARRIOTT Stem Cell Facial

Upon request: This treatment is designed to successfully boost cellular regeneration of mature skin to reduce lines and plump up the skin. QR 550. Pre-booking is essential. For more information call 4429-8520.

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QH SENSATIONS

By Ashlee Starratt and Jorge Granda Photography by Jessie Palanca

Its stunning 39th floor view and equally impressive spa menu make this high-rise retreat one of West Bay’s best-kept jewels. We roll up our sleeves and enlist in an afternoon of luxe pampering at Guerlain Spa, Alfardan, trying two new treatments worthy of five gold-stars. Up, Up And Away… So it feels like as my ears pop riding the elevator to the top of Alfardan Towers to the 39th floor eagle’s nest that’s the home perch of Guerlain Spa, Alfardan. This is only my second visit to this spa-in-the-sky and I’ve been looking forward to its blissful embrace all day. The week has taken its toll on my skin and I’m here today to test drive one of the iconic brand’s newest signature facial treatments – the Beauty Lift.

Promising firmer, rejuvenated skin (but don’t most facials?), I’m keen to see how this one measures up. I head upstairs, past the stands of towering bamboo that line the floor-to-ceiling windows, and am greeted by my therapist, Despena, in the spa’s lush majlis area. Here, there are Guerlain products all around –a makeup bar for touch-ups and a fragrance counter where you can indulge in a cheeky post-treatment splash of new and classic Guerlain parfums. The décor is sleek, gold, mosaic – rich and sultan-esque. There’s a hallway that runs adjacent to the majlis area that’s more museum gallery than anything else, with crystalline light-boxes holding some of the brand’s oldest and most treasured perfume bottles – all immaculately collected and curated for the Alfardan spa branch. Despena, who hails from Macedonia, offers me a plush pair of slippers and carts off my sandals in a drawstring bag before escorting me to the private treatment room. This I like – no need to put your belongings in a locker or go to the change room… it’s all there in the comfort of your own private ensuite. After a quick change into a comfy robe, Despena has me settle down face-up on the warm massage table and gently removes my makeup before beginning my skin assessment.

I’m experiencing some stress and hormone-related breakouts and Despena also makes note of my combination skin – matte all over with shine and oiliness across the T-zone. Using Guerlain’s Orchidée Impériale line of products, she then applies a light serum to my face to prepare it for the invigorating facial massage to come. If you’ll pardon a terrible pun, this is the ‘beauty’ of the Beauty Lift Facial – it’s a full-on, put your back-into-it massage. Throughout, Despena uses the length and strength of her whole arm to push my skin and facial muscles upwards. It’s an intense pressure – though not painful – that’s intended to smooth out fine lines and kick-start the skin’s microcirculation. I’ve not experienced anything quite like it and, prior to the massage, she coats my hands and forearms in a lusciously-warm paraffin wax which leaves my digits supple and soft. After the massage comes the hydrating facial mask. Instead of painting it on my face and leaving it to congeal, Despena uses two, ice-cold wands tipped with glass ‘water bubbles’ to gently spread and massage the cool gel of the mask into my skin. The wands seem to have a kind of vibration and the soft sound of the bubbles lulls me as they gently

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The spa's lush, private mani-pedi stations

Go for a sky-high swim at Guerlain's pool with a view

click together. While the mask sets I’m treated to a quick, yet completely calming head massage, before Despena gently rinses my face and applies a hydrating SPF cream to my skin and lips. Afterwards, while I’m putting myself back together in the ensuite’s dressing area, I glimpse my face in the mirror. The Beauty Lift has, at this moment, lived up to its name. My skin shines – though with hydration, not oil – and much of the puffiness in my face has been reduced due to the lymphatic drainage the of the high-intensity massage. Youthful and refreshed is how I feel, and with a healthy glow to boot, it’s thumbs up to Guerlain.

Deep Relief To The Rescue When your body has had enough and your mind is in search of peace, indulge in a relaxing Deep Muscular Massage at Guerlain Spa, Alfardan. A new offering on their spa menu, this particular massage helps to relieve tight, stressed, overworked and aching muscles. It also helps restore balance and comfort with specific deep-tissue techniques. These include kneading, focus on pressure points, deep friction, and long, open movements to stimulate blood circulation, warm the muscles, and ease strain and tension.

This wasn’t my first time at the spa – I’ve been here before, but this new Deep Muscular treatment was a memorable standout. It’s a full-body massage that uses medium to soft pressure to relax the body and soothe stress. I don’t enjoy deep-pressure massages and I explain this to my therapist; he is very accommodating and understanding. Fortunately for me the techniques he applies to work my muscle groups are surprisingly soft and tranquil. He starts by cleansing my feet and covering me with a warm towel. He then applies oil all over my body, massaging my back and neck. The sensation is soothing and after a few minutes I’m fully relaxed and tuning out the world around me. He has me turn over next and he applies the same techniques to my chest, arms and legs. The most sublime part of the whole experience is the toe-curling head massage at the end. All in all, the treatment is highly enjoyable and the deep-tissue work leaves me feeling a bit like jelly – but in a good way. My muscles feel limber and any joint pain is now gone for the time-being. The ambiance of the treatment room is ideal – intimate, clean and cozy. My therapist was professional and the quality of his training was evident in his skill. This was one of the best massages I’ve had in years. n

GUERLAIN SPA, ALFARDAN Location: 39th floor, Alfardan Towers, West Bay Timings: 9:00 a.m. till 10:00 p.m., daily Prices: • QR 550, 60-minute Guerlain Beauty Lift Facial • QR 550, 60-minute Deep Muscular Massage Contact Info: Call 4420-8660, email spa@alfardan.com.qa, or visit www.alfardanspa.com.

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Luxury At Its Best By Jorge Granda Images courtesy of The Four Seasons Doha

There are plenty of salons in Qatar that cater to men, but few match the calibre of services from The Barber Shop at The Four Seasons. QH stops by for a day of manly pampering.

uys, if you haven’t heard of The Barber Shop, put it on your radar. An exclusive spot for gents to get groomed, this classic throwback to an era where men lathered up for a shave-anda-haircut, has been given the five-star treatment as a one-of-a-kind concept from AND Trading, Qatar’s leading hair and beauty experts. Upon arrival the interior décor is the standout star, featuring exquisite European-inspired designs by Nacho Álvarez, Design & Creative Director at Mirabello. Genuine antiques hand-picked from Spain, Italy, the U.K., the U.S., Norway, and Iran, as well as a selection of local antiques from Doha, can be spotted all around. These include several custom-made and hand-crafted pieces by local artisans, plus interesting artifacts chosen from over 20 suppliers across 12 different countries. It’s all a luxurious assault on the senses. The salon offers an array of grooming services including haircuts, shaves, manicures and pedicures, as well as threading and waxing. During my visit I opted to have a haircut and mani-pedi. My barber is from the Philippines and was incredibly attentive. After washing my hair, he starts with the cut; I’m decidedly impressed with his skills and attention to detail. It takes nearly 40 minutes for him to give me the perfect haircut for my face-shape and condition of my strands – quality takes time, and this is exactly what one should expect from a facility of this calibre. After my haircut is finished, I’m taken to another area of the shop where two women are waiting to start my manicure and pedicure. First up is the Citrus Spa Manicure. After the technician sanitizes her hands and mine, she begins cleaning and filing my nails. She then soaks them in water and a citrus milk-bath infused with lemon and tea-tree oil. This is followed by a Citrus Moisture Scrub made of jojoba oil, sunflower oil and lime. Afterwards she applies a Citrus Illuminating Hand Masque imbued with sunflower and jojoba oils, lime, orange and she a butter. The treatment ends with a Citrus Hydrating Lotion with grapeseed oil, and black tea extract. While one of the technicians works on my hands, the other is working on my feet for the Marine Spa Pedicure. Similar to the manicure, my feet are soaked in water and a Marine Mineral Bath saturated with eucalyptus, sweet almond and

The Barber Shop's classic-chic décor hearkens back to the bygone era of men's grooming

tea-tree oils, and lemon. She then proceeds to apply a Marine Salt Scrub also containing eucalyptus, tea-tree oil and sea salt. Next is an application of a Marine Cooling Masque made with aloe vera, menthol and chamomile, followed by a Sea Serum of witch hazel, matricaria flower and aloe vera. On top of this she adds a Cucumber Heel Therapy, ending with a final application of Marine Hydrating Oil with jojoba and ylang ylang oils and Vitamin E to massage the feet. Upon finishing my treatments, I make a mental note of how pleased I am about the level of special attention given to every detail. My hands and feet feel silky-soft and my hair is looking sharp and chic. The Barber Shop gets a five-star seal of approval, providing an exclusive retreat for Doha’s gentlemen to get pampered. It’s truly a unique experience. n

The decidedly masculine pedicure station

THE BARBER SHOP Location: The Spa, The Four Seasons Timings: 9:00 a.m. till 9:00 p.m., daily Prices: • QR 100, Wash & Cut • QR 180, Citrus Spa Manicure • QR 245, Marine Spa Pedicure Contact Info: Call 6616-0349, 4494-8855, or email thebarbershopdoha@andtrading.net.

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QH SENSATIONS

Nuts About Nut Butter… By Lynsey Riach

Start spreading the news…nut butter is the new toast-topper in town! But how do we know which one is best for us? And can we still eat peanut butter straight from the jar without feeling guilty?!

uts are packed full of protein and loaded with Vitamin E and magnesium. Usually free from sugar and gluten, nut butters are especially good for those who are vegetarian or vegan. Now made popular as nut butter, you can grab the benefits of nuts on your toast, add as protein to a smoothie, stir into your porridge, or even provide a little more punch on a slice of apple or banana as a healthy snack. This new trend has popped up all over the internet and (thankfully) now in town. A few years ago it was quite difficult to find nut butter here but now most of our supermarkets (especially Monoprix) carry most of the different types of butters and a range of brands. Just don’t drop the jar when you see the price tag! Peanut butter has of course been around for a long time, popular with kids due to the fabricated taste, and popular with adults due to its economic cost. But that’s exactly why… Pick up a jar of cheap peanut butter and you’ll find it hard to pronounce

most of the ingredients in it. Just think, that’s what you’re putting into your body or your children’s. You are what you eat! A nut butter should have one ingredient and one ingredient only – the nut.

actually boosts your metabolism, which aids in weight-loss and increases energy levels. It’s packed with healthy fats, so you feel fuller for longer. Show me the coco!

I’m obsessed with almond butter (made only from almonds) and my favourite producer is Meridian Foods who have reported a sales increase by 117% in the last year with demand for unusual nut butters such as almond and cashew at an all-time high. Other butters on the increase in popularity include coconut, walnut and hazelnut.

Walnut Butter

Almond Butter Just a tablespoon of almond butter a day promotes heart health by reducing LDL (bad) cholesterol, Perserving, it has one of the least amounts of calories, is a good source of protein, and has the most fibre of all of the nut butters. Oh, and almonds can play a key role in weight loss. Research has shown that a breakfast containing almonds may aid in stabilizing blood sugar levels for the rest of the day.

Peanut Butter

If you're looking for an almond butter alternative then give walnuts a go. They’re dense in Omega-3 fats that help trigger the hormone leptin that tells us we've had enough to eat. Omega-3 fats are particularly important as the diets of most individuals are tipped in balance of Omega-6 fats, and this leads to inflammation — the cause of most illness and weight gain.

Cashew Butter Cashew butter does supply significant amounts of other heart-healthy fats, essential amino acids and the dietary mineral magnesium, but it’s also highly calorific. Its protein to carbohydrate ratio makes cashew butter an appealing snack option if you're trying to adhere to a low-carbohydrate, high-protein diet.

A serving of peanut butter has the powerful antioxidant Vitamin E, bone-building magnesium, muscle-friendly potassium and immunity-boosting Vitamin B6. Research shows that eating peanuts can decrease your risk of heart disease, diabetes, and other chronic health conditions.

But Why So Oily?

Coconut Butter

Meridian Cashew Nut Butter Made from 100% roasted cashew nuts, this is particularly good on crumpets.

It’s rich in lauric acid, which boosts immunity and destroys harmful bacteria, viruses, and fungi. It

Nuts hold oil and this is a natural occurrence found in nut butters as the oil separates from the nut. Just pour the oil out when you first open the jar and be sure to always stir your nut butters before eating.

Some Of The Best Butters…

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ut Spread a dollop of this cashew cocon toast, banana butter on your morning crackers or even apple slices!

Pip & Nut Almond and Coconut Butter I was lucky enough to find a jar in Monoprix. I swiped it straight off the shelf laughing to myself (you’ve all done it!). Made from roasted almonds and toasted coconut, this one has been slightly sweetened with natural agave syrup and spiked with a sprinkling of sea salt. It’s a real tasty treat on top of toast.

Creamy almond butter is packed full of protein

Whole Earth Three-Nut Butter Made from cashews, peanuts and hazelnuts, this tastes rather like praline and is a really luxurious treat. The Wild Peanut Chili Peanut Butter If your loyalties lie with peanut butter, but you’d like a modern twist, then this spiced version, which has some added chili, is sure to do the trick. Biona Mixed Nut Butter This organic nut butter is packed full of four different nuts: peanuts, hazelnuts, cashews, almonds, and nothing else. So no need to be confused by the choice out there, load up on protein and feel fuller, build stronger muscles and be good to yourself by feeding yourself good food! n Lynsey Riach is a qualified yoga instructor living and working in Doha normally found walking her pugs, on her yoga mat, or blending up fruit smoothies. To learn more about her services visit www.andstretchyoga.com.

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QH SENSATIONS

Words and selected images by John Hunt

‘Take me to Marrakech’ sang Crosby, Stills and Nash back in 1969. Today, the pull of its allure still holds strong among tourists seeking the Moroccan mystique of its ancient markets, mosaic palaces and oasis gardens. We hop aboard our own ‘Marrakech Express’ for a first-hand glimpse inside the Land of the Berbers.

’m well-travelled, but had never set foot in Africa until late November as part of a five-strong press trip which emerged from the murk of Scotland into the curative winter sun of Marrakech, Morocco. We arrived at Marrakech Airport to be welcomed by our Tourist Board liaison, Faical, and then transferred to Savoy le Grand Hotel. After settling in (to our suites!) we headed out with Faical to Le Grand Café de La Poste – an elegant, white-walled 1920’s building which used to be the city’s main post office. This has since been translated into a very cool, ambient restaurant and lounge stuffed with amazing antique furniture, rugs and paintings. Here we enjoyed our first taste of Morocco with a selection of local tipples, chatting among ourselves and getting a

feel for the languid ‘vibe’ of Marrakech. We returned to the hotel for a traditional Moroccan dinner at one of their three restaurants. I had a chicken tagine, which was voluminous and tasty.

opportunities – the former for its intricate tiling and exquisite ceilings, the latter for its multi-layered desolation, which had baked under the unforgiving sun for millennia.

The following morning we headed out, initially to the famed Majorelle Gardens. With 800,000 visitors annually, this is Morocco’s most popular attraction. It’s a massive yet serene place, with duck boards guiding you through giant cacti, trees and immaculate shrubbery. At its heart lies a museum (painted a vivid blue – unique among the ubiquitous palette of beiges and warm reds of the city) informing visitors about the gardens and also the regional Berber traditions. Yves Saint Laurent designed his collections at a mansion nearby.

That evening we dined at the Dar Moha restaurant, famous for its quality, and certainly the first time I have eaten next to a miniature swimming pool. It had been a long day, with plenty of sustenance already taken on board, so I opted for a simple prawn and noodle dish which was fresh and flavoursome. Back to the hotel, and I think I was out as soon as my head hit the pillow.

Interestingly, the admission price for paid attractions was QR 3.5 – I really think they’re missing a trick here, as this is silly cheap. You could whack this up times ten and no-one would demur. Next up were the expansive Menara Gardens (inferior to the Majorelle – but they were a hard act to follow) before we headed to the five-star Essadi Palace Hotel for lunch. And what a lunch it was; we dined outside in perfect weather with perfect food and perfect service to match. Never had a lobster club sandwich before, but I have now, and it was sensational. A trio of historic attractions awaited us after lunch, the Badai Palace, Bahia Palace and the Saadian Tombs. All of which oozed history and photo

Sky High On day three we headed south from Marrakech into the Atlas Mountains. This range crosses upper Africa and we were at the sharp end. If not us, perhaps, then the mules (poor beasts!) which carried us half-way up the mountains before we dismounted for a Berber lunch at a kasbah under the eye of the Atlas’ summit. This was (no pun intended) my personal highlight. We descended by foot, and then back to the hotel for a little R&R, before venturing out to the achingly-trendy Buddha Bar where we were treated to sushi, dim sum, main courses, and a few glasses of house beverage. Our last full day was slower-paced. We visited the traditional, buzzing souk where I picked up a marble elephant for my absent wife (don’t malign me, she’s into elephants) following which my press companions (all ladies) headed back to the Dior

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Safari through the Sahara

stall Tagines at a Marrakech street-food

Moroccan opulence: the Savoy le Grand Hotel

The oasis tranquility of the Menara Gardens

Spa (one of only a handful in MENA) at the Essadi Palace for a makeover. I stayed at the hotel and wandered down to the lobby lounge for a couple of refreshments and watched the football. That evening we went to the Sofitel ‘show bar’ where we enjoyed a superb dinner in front of a live band. Different, but no less enjoyable for it. It was another late one and at breakfast the following day we all presented a sorry spectacle. Time to go home, though, and while the itinerary worked us hard in the nicest possible way it was a wrench to leave because we had all had a fantastic time in a fascinating city. A delightful trip and highly recommended – there were no negatives.

Where To Stay: We stayed at the magnificent, five-star Savoy le Grand Hotel. I stayed in a fantastic, roomy suite which overlooked a lagoon-like outdoor pool and restaurant. The room boasted all the usual amenities including fast and free WiFi and in the basement there was a spa with two massive pools, enormous Jacuzzi, steam room and sauna and a CV gym. The buffet breakfast is worth a mention with its massive range of fresh food and an omelette and crêpe station – all this from just QR 600 per night B&B.

How To Get There: We flew from Glasgow, Scotland with easyJet, but Qatar Airways flies daily to Marrakech via Casablanca from only QR 1,740 return. I was a couple of hours early for my departure so I spent some time relaxing in the superb UpperDeck Lounge. Entry is £20 (QR 109) and for this you get lots of space, free Wi-Fi, a great view of the runway, complimentary servings of soft and licensed beverages and a snack buffet. Well worth a visit. n

A sunny walk through the Atlas Mountains

Mosaic splendour of the Saadian Tombs

Living room Executive Suite at the Savoy le Grand Hotel

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The Dish On Qatar QH SENSATIONS

By Abigail Villarroel Selected photography by Jessie Palanca

It’s 2016 and guess what that means? It’s time to know your city a little bit better. It’s a New Year, the weather is right, and Doha’s waiting to be explored. So from all of us here at QH headquarters, we encourage you to try, see, or do something new this January. Here’s our QH Top Ten!

Make like a rainbow at this year's Color Run at QNCC!

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1 The Color Run

Dubbed ‘The Happiest 5K On The Planet’, The Color Run is bringing the rainbow back to Doha on January 9 at the Qatar National Convention Centre. Presented by Weill-Cornell Medical College In Qatar and its Sahtak Awalan: Your Health First initiative, this five-kilometre sprint sees runners doused in coloured powder along every mile marker in celebration of health and fitness. A great opportunity to enjoy Qatar’s cooler weather, tickets for this all-ages event are already for sale online. To sign up visit www.facebook.com/TheColorRunQatar.

2 Qatar Racing Club

If you’re a fan of motor-sports, the Qatar Racing Club has an eventful start to the New Year. Their schedule for January includes the popular Freestyle Drift Track Days and the Club will also be organizing one of the region’s most anticipated motor-sports events – the Arabian Drag Racing League. Spectators are widely welcomed and for more information on ticket sales visit their website at www.qrc.qa.

ExxonMobil 3 Qatar Open 2016

An opportunity to enjoy some of the world’s best male tennis players as they go head-tohead in competition, the Qatar ExxonMobil Open 2016 returns to the Khalifa International Tennis & Squash Complex. From January 4-9 the likes of Rafael Nadal, David Ferrer and current World No.1 Novak Djokovic, will compete for the winning title in a tournament sure to entertain Doha’s tennis-watching public as the New Year begins. Tickets can be purchased online at www.qatartennis.org.

4 Ooredoo Marathon 2016

Yes, another marathon! What can we say – January is the time to shine – weather-wise – so runners, lace up! Kicking off on January 8, the Ooredoo Marathon 2016 is a chance to embrace fitness while enjoying Qatar’s pleasant winter weather. The marathon is open to all ages, and runners are encouraged to participate in a range of courses; from half marathons to a 10km run, the event caters to all abilities and fitness levels. With prizes to be awarded, we’ll see you at the finish line! For more information, head to www.marathon.ooredoo.qa.

5 Jazz At Lincoln Center

Want to enjoy an array of live musicians playing one of music’s greatest genres? Then Jazz at Lincoln Center in The St. Regis Doha is sure to satisfy your ears. With daily performances, audiences are even encouraged to interact with musicians as they revel in the music over some New Orleans-inspired food and refreshments. While guests are required to be over the age of 21, family jazz afternoons do take place, introducing younger fans to the vibrant art of jazz! To learn more go to www.jalcdoha.com.

Rock 6 Zekreet Climbing & Beach

Rock-climbing and road-trip enthusiasts will be motivated to make the day-trip trek to Zekreet. Marking a change of scenery from Doha’s skyline, Zekreet’s rock formations are an ideal climbing spot for adrenaline-seekers, while its beach is a relaxing oasis where a swim and picnic by the sea may just set the world to rights. Don’t forget to make a pit-stop at the area’s iconic Film City – a former movie set where the backdrop of a traditional Arabic town, with its gates and walled ramparts, draws tourists near and far. To reach Zekreet take the Dukhan Highway from Doha heading west.

7 Luc Tuymans: Intolerance One of Europe’s most influential painters, Belgian artist Luc Tuymans, presents his first solo exhibition at the Qatar Museums Gallery Al Riwaq all throughout the month of January. The exhibit goes by the name Intolerance and focuses on our rapidly changing world in the context of one man’s preoccupations with these changes. With no cost of entry, this is an opportunity for cultural enrichment as the year begins!

8 Stand-Up Comedy Qatar

This group of talented jokesters organizes some of the best stand-up comedians in the region under one roof to speak the universal language of laughter. Their events are held throughout the year and widely advertised through their social media networks, and for updates on new events and up-and-coming talent, SUCQ is a great starting point. Get your giggles at www.facebook.com/SUCQatar.

Qatar Islamic 9 FANAR Cultural Center

From its iconic spiral architecture visible from the Corniche, FANAR is a hub for Arabic teaching and learning. The cultural centre is committed to educating people in the Arabic language, with organized courses offered at different levels, and tours for those who are interested in getting more acquainted with the centre. Drive on by and take a look at all that’s on offer – for expats it’s an ideal introduction to the culture and practices of their adopted new home. Get involved at www.fanar.gov.qa.

New Doha 10 The Exhibition Centre

In case you haven’t seen the bright, shiny-new venue adjacent to City Center Mall, the new Doha Exhibition and Convention Centre is supremely state-of-the-art. Their events calendar for 2016 is already chock-a-block with seminars, conferences and expos with some of the world’s leading companies and their newest products. From January 10-12, the first International Exhibition for Support Services and Business Solutions in Qatar will be taking place – a solid opportunity for business-savvy residents. Keep up with the Center for future events at www.qatartourism.gov.qa. n

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IT HAPPENED

s an bin Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani greet His Highness the Emir, Sheikh Tamim the Qatar National Day parade during che Corni the along exuberant crowd Photo credit: Nadir Khamis

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QATAR NATIONAL DAY Dec 18, 2015 105 QH Jan 2016 - FINAL.indd 105

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IT HAPPENED

AJYAL YOUTH FILM FESTIVAL Katara Nov 29-Dec 5, 2015

FINA airweave SWIMMING WORLD CUP 2015 Hamad Aquatic Centre Nov 2 & 3, 2015 106 QH Jan 2016 - FINAL.indd 106

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WORLD DIABETES DAY WALKATHON Aspire Park Nov 13, 2015

QATAR INTERNATIONAL DRAGON BOAT FESTIVAL 2015 The Grand Hyatt Dec 4, 2015 107 QH Jan 2016 - FINAL.indd 107

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IT HAPPENED

DISNEY’S BEAUTY AND THE BEAST QNCC Dec 10-19, 2015

IHG QATAR MIXED OPEN InterContinental Doha Nov 26, 2015 108 QH Jan 2016 - FINAL.indd 108

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Z LOUNGE BY ZENGO VIP NIGHT Kempinski Residences & Suites Dec 16, 2015

Z Lounge by Zengo is a concept of celebrity Chef Richard Sandoval (second from left)

CHEESE & JAZZ NIGHT The Four Seasons Nov 24, 2015 109 QH Jan 2016 - FINAL.indd 109

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IT HAPPENED

THURSDAY NIGHT FEVER W Doha Nov 19, 2015

SALSA N CANDELA 7TH ANNIVERSARY Sheraton Doha Nov 27, 2015 110 QH Jan 2016 - FINAL.indd 110

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SAINT TROPEZ WHITE & GOLD PARTY Hilton Doha Dec 3, 2015

THE ENTERTAINER QATAR 2016 LAUNCH Doha Marriott Dec 7, 2015 111 QH Jan 2016 - FINAL.indd 111

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IT HAPPENED

CHRISTMAS TREE LIGHTING The Four Seasons Dec 1, 2015

TREE LIGHTING CEREMONY InterContinental Doha Dec 5, 2015 112 QH Jan 2016 - FINAL.indd 112

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HOLIDAY TREE LIGHTING Marsa Malaz Kempinski Dec 6, 2015

FESTIVE TREE LIGHTING InterContinental Doha The City Dec 10, 2015 113 QH Jan 2016 - FINAL.indd 113

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IT HAPPENED

SEASON’S GREETINGS TREE LIGHTING Hilton Doha Dec 14, 2015

CHRISTMAS LIGHTING CEREMONY Doha Marriott Dec 19, 2015 114 QH Jan 2016 - FINAL.indd 114

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DOHA COLLEGE ‘MY QATAR’ PRESS TOUR Aspire Printing Press Nov 29, 2015

ismas QH Grab-Bag winner Ella Thand checks in for her weekend stay!

THE QH GRAB-BAG WEEKEND STAY Mövenpick Hotel Doha Nov 19, 2015 115 QH Jan 2016 - FINAL.indd 115

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PHONE DIRECTORY HOTELS Al Gassar Resort Banana Island Resort Doha by Anantara 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 Wyndham Grand Regency

4424-4881 4040-5050 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 4434-3333

AIRLINES 4432-2111 Air Arabia 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 Lufthansa German Airlines 4431-0212 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 4496-6410 Bay View 26, Wellness Centre Bliss 4453-5555 Bottega Verde 4483-4535 Coiffeur Franรงaise 4468-9211 4498-0033 Dados Beauty Salon Diva Lounge 4431-8488 Doha Dental 4431-7766 4429-8520 Doha Marriott Spa Ebn Sina Medical 800-2288 4494-8801 Four Seasons Spa 4494-8844 Frank Provost Glow American Salon, Salwa Rd. 4468-9945 West Bay 4411-7652 4483-9100 GoodLife Chemist City Center 4495-3876 The Pearl Guerlain Alfardan Spa 4420-8660 Habibs Hair and Beauty Salon 4413-0672 4428-8888 La Cigale - Ozone Spa Medical Spa Villaggio 4451-7590 4485-4012 Patrice Salon 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

4439-3333 4439-2948 4466-6671

SHOPPING Alfardan Jewellery 4440-8408 4483-0582 City Center Doha 4469-4848 Hyatt Plaza Landmark Mall 4487-5222 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

116 QH Jan 2016 - FINAL.indd 116

12/23/15 10:58