Qatar Happening - July / August 2013 by Qatar Happening

QH July/Aug 2013 sri.indd 2

6/27/13 9:53 AM

Warmest Congratulations We extend our warmest and sincere congratulations and felicitations to

His Highness, the newly crowned Emir, Sheik Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani and our beloved people of Qatar on the occasion of H.H. Sheikh Tamim taking power as the new Emir of the State of Qatar We pray to Allah, Almighty Lord, to bless his leadership and bestow success upon his royal endeavours to serve his nation and lead the State, and to gift Qatar with everlasting prosperity and success under his royal leadership. We further extend wholehearted feelings of gratitude and appreciation to

His Highness Sheikh Hamad Bin Khalifa Al Thani for his long history of sincere and dedicated leadership of Qatar, memorable patriotic attitudes and parental care he bestowed upon his nation.

Ahmed Hassan Bilal Group

QH July/Aug 2013 sri.indd 3

6/27/13 1:30 PM

QH July/Aug 2013 sri.indd 4

6/27/13 9:53 AM

QH July/Aug 2013 sri.indd 5

6/27/13 9:53 AM

QH July/Aug 2013 sri.indd 6

6/27/13 9:53 AM

QH July/Aug 2013 sri.indd 7

6/27/13 9:53 AM

QH July/Aug 2013 sri.indd 8

6/27/13 9:53 AM

Table of Contents

pg 78 52

OUT CHECK pening.com

atarhap ion! www.q test informat la for the

Celebrate Iftar And Sohour In The TheCity’s City’sBest BestRamadan RamadanTents Tents

JULY/AUGUST MENT ENTERTAIN

EVERY ISSUE Editor-in-Chief’s Letter 11

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

QH Speaks

The best of our monthly social media

Events Calendar 15

Pullout calendar with the city’s do-not-miss monthly events

124

It Happened

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

132

Phone Directory

TURE ARTS & CUL

Top Picks

Ramadan TV Series

Building A Cultural Bridge

Summer At Mathaf

Tune in to these long-running soap operas and talk shows that air during the Holy Month

Cirque du Soleil

The renowned circus troupe is bringing their Oriental- inspired show Dralion to Aspire Dome this fall!

Summer Jams

Going on a summer road trip? We’ve got the season’s hottest tunes to get you to your destination

Get to know the Qatar UK Year of Culture inside and out Get your art fix at the Arab Museum of Modern Art

Arts & Culture Listings 44

Find out everything that’s going on this month

Party Hoppin’ Happenings 30

Make a splash with our summer pool round-up!

Need-to-know phone numbers

Entertainment Listings

Find out everything that’s going on this month LIKE US ON FACEBOOK www.facebook.com/qatarhappening

For customer service and subscription questions, such as renewals, billing and account status, email info@qatarhappening.com

9 QH July/Aug 2013 sri.indd 9

6/27/13 12:06 PM

Table of Contents COMMUNITY Top Picks

A Deeper Meaning

Find out what each Ramadan call to prayer means

Diamonds In The Rough

Vodafone’s Al Johara program balances tradition with entrepreneurship

Community Listings

Kids Club Top Picks

School’s Out

Enrol your little ones in some of the best summer camps in town

Find out everything that’s going on this month

Kids Club Listings

Fun ideas to do with the kids

pg 24

Cirque du Soleil’s Dralion Comes To Aspire Dome

Top Picks

Traditional Treats

Top Picks

Stay Active!

Plan your own Iftar or Sohour with our delicious recipes

Evolution Sports is back with some great summer programs to keep you healthy this July/August

A Cupcake A Day

Packing A Punch

We get the ultimate sugar rush at Katara’s Red Velvet Cupcakery

Ramadan Kareem

Our round-up of all the Ramadan Iftar and Sohour tents to enjoy this Holy Month

The traditional sport of Muay Thai is now being offered in Doha

A Big City Break

113

Reasons To Fly

116

The New Kids On The Block

We spend a lush weekend at the Renaissance Doha City Centre

Call Details: Inquiries: Marketing:

Email: editor@qatarhappening.com

Fax:

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

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

Our pick of top destinations

We take a look at some sleek discount hotel chains that could soon come to Qatar

118

Virgin Recommends

120

Spotlight On Movies

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

QH July/Aug 2013 sri.indd 10

102

Have Your Say:

QH Recommends

Our fave little luxuries of the month

Find out everything that’s going on this month

info@qatarhappening.com jorge@qatarhappening.com

101

Sports Listings

Food & Dining Listings

IONS QH SENSAT

SPORTS

ING FOOD & DIN

The best monthly entertainment picks from the Megastore

Our top five must-see films of the month

122 The Dish On Qatar

We bring you some fun facts on everything Ramadan

Enjoy... 6/27/13 9:53 AM

k Of The From The Des f Editor-In-Chie

er? On the Cov

Wishing you Ramadan Kareem this July/August! With moons and stars glowing, a traditional Ramadan lamp lights up Iftar and Sohour Photo Credit: Amara Photos, courtesy of the Ritz-Carlton Doha

Dear friends,

ld like to As the Holy Month dawns, I wou y one take this opportunity to wish ever and of our readers Ramadan Kareem for Eid Mubarak. This is a special time n whe time a ing; brat cele e all thos families and friends come together in spiritual connection and a time when we seek to do good for the are greater community of which we all part. to I would also like to take a moment e ston mile t rtan impo an acknowledge June in our nation’s history as this past Sheikh 25th, 2013 our beloved Emir H.H. sferred Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani tran im bin power to his son, H.H. Sheikh Tam reins as our Hamad Al Thani, who will take the heights in the new to n natio t grea our ing new Emir, guid father. We his by out laid n datio footsteps of the important foun rts for all they have done and effo ess tirel their all e prais and wish them both much respect will continue to do for Qatar. Ramadan with some bined issue we aim our focus on In this month’s July/August com munity section we have a Com our In . ning mea its on compelling articles that shed light esting read for nonwhat each one signifies. It’s an inter feature on the calls to prayer and hold deep meaning that ls ritua and about the practices Muslims who want to know more throughout the Holy Month. facts that will help our have a round-up of Ramadan fun In our Dish On Qatar section we fast with dates, their k brea about why Muslims readers feel connected as they learn the origins of garangao how and st holie the d idere cons why the 27th day of Ramadan is with us, as we guide section, plan your Iftar or Sohour came to be. In our Food & Dining ollow recipes. Or -to-f easy and s urite of Ramadan favo kitchen, we have you through a tempting selection the in rt effo the ly and friends, minus if you’d rather just relax with fami where you can enjoy the s tent adan Ram ted ebra t-cel your complete guide to Doha’s mos the ones you love most. delicacies of Iftar and Sohour with g throughout the we have in store to keep you goin This is only a taste of the offerings inue to bring you the cont we as fall the in n agai us with summer and we hope to see you le, places and things s, listings and features on the peop best events information, interview th. Mon a blessed Holy that matter to you. May you all have your lives. Thank you for making us a part of

Nasser Ahmed Hassan Bilal Editor-in-Chief

Food & Dining

Ramadan Kareem

– The Crowne Plaza Doha The Business Park

Islamic calendar; a time when Ramadan is the ninth month of the among during from dawn till sunset to Muslims all over the world fast hearts and souls. Ramadan lasts other religious beliefs -cleanse their the sightings of the crescent moon. on between 29 to 30 days depending their worshipers are allowed to break Every day during the Holy Month proudly with family and loved ones. QH fast after sunset and enjoy a meal Tents in Doha. presents a list of the best Ramadan popular in Qatar. Hotels and Ramadan tents have become hugely for months to build opulent tents work restaurants all over the country the festivity. Some tents in and create special dishes to celebrate can easily resemble palaces five-star hotels are so majestic they family-oriented spaces set the right worthy of kings. These communal, to join Muslims their fast, and for nonatmosphere for Muslims to break month in the Islamic calendar. in the celebration of the most sacred

Make each Iftar and Sohour memorable with our Ramadan tent round-up on page 78!

At Aramede Iftar & Sohour Aramede into Hotel – The Business Park is turning

The Crowne Plaza your fast with their oud band duo a big Ramadan celebration. Break QR 170, from 6:00 a.m. till 11:00 p.m. and Darwich Dancers every night. and lunch during Ramadan. For more Aramede will be serving breakfast information call 4408-7777.

Hilton Doha

varieties of cold starters served Enjoy an Iftar Set Menu with wide A special dessert concludes the is a choice of chicken, beef or lamb. is served with a speciallyand hot starter. The main course is inclusive of Ramadan juices. Sohour highlight and the entire package salad, stuffed quail, lamb grilled vegetables and halloumi created a la carte menu that includes station is available. Turkish doner, ghullach. An Ice Cream tenderloin, chicken testi kebab, Ramadan Timings: Weekdays (sun– Wed) iftar: 6:30 p.m. till 8:30 p.m. sohour: 8:30 p.m. till 1:30 a.m.

Weekends (Thurs – sat) iftar: 6:30 p.m. till 8:30 p.m. sohour: 8:30 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. For more information call 4408-2000.

QH is your voice and your guide for all things fun, funky and happening in Qatar! Send us your feedback to editor@qatarhappening.com. Publisher: The Art of Business Chairman: Ahmed Hassan Bilal Editor-in-Chief: Nasser Ahmed Hassan Bilal Executive Editorial Director: Moona Masri-Whitice Editor: Ashlee Starratt Lead Designer / Production Manager: Srimani Welagedara Brand Manager: Zahi Srour Photographer: Jessie Palanca Listings Coordinator: Marlynne Mallari-Dela Pena Web Coordinator: Imran Khan Intern: Tasbih Amin Sales and Marketing Manager: Deliah Furcoi Sales and Communications Manager: Jorge Granda Marketing Coordinator: Chet Tibayan Distribution & Accounts: Lanie Fillo-Pana Contributors: Jacqueline Bodnar, Elias Gemayel, John Hunt, Sanjaya Munindradasa,

Charlie Sands, Victoria Scott, Gerald Tan, Ujwala Thirumurthy

QATAR HAPPENING (QH) is published 11 times a year by The Art of Business, Doha, Qatar, an associate of Ahmed Hassan Bilal Group.

The Four Seasons

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.

Ramadan Tent At Al Mirqab Ballroom

made memorable by The Four A traditional Ramadan experience chefs. The Al Mirqab ballroom Seasons Hotel’s brigade of international This an ambiance of Arabic decadence. has been transformed to create festive family affair, whether gathering year, Ramadan promises to be a fast, or meeting for an elegant Sohour family and friends to break their buffet will feature exceptional evening. The extensive Ramadan dishes as well as freshly-baked international, local and traditional stations which will have diners breads, grilled meats and live cooking spoiled for choice.

iftar: Timing: From sunset till 8:00 p.m. Price: QR 220 sohour: a.m. Timing: From 9:00 p.m. till 1:00 Price: QR 270 shisha: QR 85 For reservations call 4494-8888.

nts Ramadan Te Aspire Katara Hospitality Ramadan Tent Sukar Pasha Ottoman Loungeon the table, followed by a soup

About Us

Grand Heritage

QATAR HAPPENING (QH) retails for QR 8. Bulk subscriptions are available for QR 5 each, for orders over 50.

Iftar At Hakawi Tent

enjoy an ambient Ramadan setting Book your Iftar at Hakawi tent and spread will include hot and with a feast fit for royalty. The majestic stations, fourteen rotating cooking cold appetizers and mezzeh, live specialty Ramadan drinks to quench main dishes daily, desserts and your thirst. Timings: Sunset till 8:00 p.m. Ramadan beverages Price: QR 200 per person including For reservations call 4423-3333

Souhour At Hakawi Tent

tent accompanied with an Enjoy Ramadan evenings at Hakawi you puff on your favourite flavored authentic Arabian spread while and cold mezzeh and fourteen shisha. Live cooking stations, hot and specialty Ramadan drinks to rotating main dishes daily, desserts oud player along with a band will quench your thirst are on offer. An enchant you through the night. a.m. Timings: From 9:00 p.m. till 1:00 Ramadan beverages Price: QR 270 per person including For reservations call 4423-3333

Ramadan Iftar & Sohour

delicacies from the Iftar & Sohour Join Grand Heritage Doha for delectable tent setting, offering all Arabic specialties buffets in the Oriental Ramadan Saj and Shawarma. Iftar and Sohour with live cooking stations of Ouzi, Ramadan beverages. 50% off for buffet, QR 190 per person including rates for under age five dine free. Special children 6-12 years old, children groups of over 10 people. Timings: iftar: From sunset till 9:00 p.m. with live entertainment. sohour: From 9:30p.m. till 1:00a.m., For reservations call 4445-5555

2013

11 QH July/Aug 2013 sri.indd 11

6/27/13 12:13 PM

QH Speaks

Editor’s Corner It’s hard to believe that the Holy Month is upon us once again. This is my second Ramadan issue and I found myself really looking forward to it this time round. Last year I was new to the country and didn’t know what to expect for my first Ramadan – and trying to plan its coverage in the magazine proved challenging with very little experience in the culture. Twelve months later and we’re back, bigger and better with our July/August combined issue that’s packed with stories on the Holy Month that are insightful, engaging and fun. As expats, many of us get invited to celebrate Iftar and Sohour with our Muslim friends and colleagues, but how many of us turn the tables and host a fast-breaking at our own homes? In our Food & Dining section we have a step-by-step Ramadan menu featuring some delicious traditional recipes that will test your skills in the kitchen and impress your guests. That’s one of my absolute favourite parts of the Holy Month, the long, fun-filled evenings with friends enjoying Iftar or Sohour. The laughter, the traditional Arabic music, the flavoured shisha, the food – it makes you feel part of a larger community, one that is open and safe and welcoming. To me, this is a big part of what I look forward to this Ramadan, as it embodies the spirit of the Holy Month perfectly: sharing and connecting with others after a long day of fasting and self-sacrifice. We also take you inside the world of Ramadan TV series this month. With reduced working hours and long, restful days at home, people tend to veg out in front of the television and let me tell you, there’s a whole realm of TV programming that only airs during the Holy Month. Drama series, soap operas and much more – Ramadan is sweepstakes month for the Arab television industry and we introduce you to some of the top shows to set your recorder to, so you don’t miss an episode. On behalf of all of us at Qatar Happening we want to wish you a heartfelt Ramadan Kareem and Eid Mubarak for the Holy Month ahead. Enjoy! See you in the fall,

Ashlee Starratt Editor

12 QH July/Aug 2013 sri.indd 12

arlton Photo Credit: Amara Photos and The Ritz-C

Photo Credit: Jessie Palanca and The St. Regis

the best from our social We ask, you answer.The best of r Editor’s Corner. Here’s ou s plu , nth mo s thi ks pic top media what you’re saying!

LIKE US ON FACEBOOK www.facebook.com/qatarhappening

In Your Face We asked our Facebook follo wers to share with us some of their most special Ram adan memories. So come, take a walk down mem ory lane:

“The Arabic coffee aroma with Oriental sweets shielded by family gatherings are my favourite memories of Ramadan spent in Qatar! Looking forward to visit again this year. Thanks QH.” – Aalaa Sekina “I’ll never forget the electric feeling that shot through my body while tears ran down my face at the sound of the Imam reciting Quran during Taraweeh prayers. Beautiful experience!” – Sarah Al Motairi “Last year, we really enjoyed the Ramadan tent in the W Hotel!! Great ambiance, superb food and amazing concept! We are looking forward to have our Iftar there again this coming Ramadan!” – Ferlen R. Lavina

See us online! om www.qatarhappening.c

6/27/13 9:53 AM

QH July/Aug 2013 sri.indd 13

6/27/13 12:31 PM

QH Out & About The cast of STOMP took over the Frid ay brunch at the Grand Hyatt Doha this Jun e 7. QH was there to capture the toe-tappin g action!

Tweets Of The Month @De_Imperial37m in

The best way to hang up on someone is the middle of your own sentence. That way they never suspect you hung up on them.

@Toryscott44m

Thinking of launching a series of flashcards for use whilst sitting at traffic lights in #Doha, inc. “Put that child in a car seat!” Ideas?

The STOMP cast and crew pose with the

Qatar Happening and Premium Projects’

team!

@Vineet_Bhatia10h

@qatarairways what a day, tasting all my new dishes planned for the upcoming flights. Exhausting but fruitful day.

@sIpIt120official1h

Congratulations Sri Lanka for making into the semifinal of Champions Trophy. RT if you loved this nail-biting match.

@aspirezone2h

Welcome to #AspireInRamadan. Lots of sports available. Register now…aspirezone. qa/Ramadan

@rachelannmorris3h a

Dropped back a gear this morning. Made proper breakfast and enjoyed coffee on my terrace. What a difference that extra 30 mins makes.

k peek Entertained onlookers get a snea

@Conjugater8h

Everyone is busy making a better world to live in, but only few strive to make better of themselves. #Reality

@umershabib9h

Biggest lie I tell myself: “I don’t need to write that down, I’ll remember it.”

14 QH July/Aug 2013 sri.indd 14

6/27/13 12:07 PM

QH July/Aug 2013 sri.indd 19

6/27/13 1:00 PM

QH July/Aug 2013 sri.indd 20

6/27/13 9:54 AM

Entertainment

s k c i P p o T ’s This Month

Oryx Rotana Hospitality Night Mondays (After Ramadan): The Jazz Club. Every Monday hoteliers, crew members and all hospitality staff can benefit from a 25% discount on their total food and beverage bill. Be sure to check in early for a great night! Hoteliers can invite up to three guests. For more information call 4402-3333.

Grand Regal Hotel Bollywood Night

July 5: Bar Rancho’s. Catch the best Bollywood tunes with International DJs at Bar Rancho’s. Door entry is QR 100 for men, free entry for women. 10% discount for all guests and 15% discount on bottle spirit purchases. From 8:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. For more information call 4409-4600/4409-4444 or email: sales@grandregal.com.

The Ritz – Carlton Doha Salsa Nights Saturdays (After Ramadan): Admiral’s Club. Dance the night away on Latin rhythms. The spins, crisp turns and sharp movements make salsa one of the most energetic dance styles. From 8:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. For more information call 4484-8663 or email dilip.kumar@ritzcarlton.com.

W Doha t Buddha Bar Nigh dian DJ

July 4: Wahm. French-Cana nger to the Nicholas Sechaud is no stra ing scene. -din fine and club l iona internat the at DJ t Currently residen at world-renowned Buddha Bar ury Lux a ai, Dub se Hou nor sve Gro ber of num a e don he’s el, Hot on Collecti s, club , bars ed fam ss residencies acro ldwide. lounges and restaurants wor . For more From 10:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m email or 35 3-51 445 call tion informa ls.com. hote @w oha .wd bnfreservations

OUT om .c CHECaK ppening

atarh tion! www.qthe latest informa for

es and All loung are closed s nightclub of ly Month o H e th r -open fo re l il and w n a d a m a R of Eid. cond day on the se

West End The Renaissance Doha City Center Football Frenzy August: Champions. After the Holy Month of Ramadan you can enjoy your favourite sports while sipping your favourite drink. August 9: Bundesliga August 17 – 24: Rugby Championship Starting August 17: English Premier League August 19: La Liga August 24: Seria A

21 QH July/Aug 2013 sri.indd 21

6/27/13 9:54 AM

Entertainment

s e i r e S V T n a d a m a R

Special

By Tasbih Amin

With reduced working hours throughout Ramadan and many families gathering at home during the day, this month is prime-time for some special TV series that only air throughout the Holy Month. QH tunes in.

amadan is a month of piety, family and endurance, but it also happens to be a big time for TV shows in the Arab world. This TV sweepstakes season has become a very popular and recognized part of modern Arab culture during Ramadan, which is also unique in its own way. First of all, the shows are tailor-made for Ramadan, with the first episode starting the first night of Ramadan and running every day until Eid, when the finale is aired. You can imagine the amount of effort and time put into creating a 30-episode show that airs over the course of a single month. However, the hard work pays off, because millions around the Arab world tune in to watch, making the month of Ramadan a gold mine for the Arabic television industry. There are dozens of diverse productions that air during Ramadan, spanning a multitude of genres. From Syrian cultural dramas to religious programming, the Arabic TV networks are yours to explore this month. This year, a variety of anticipated series are coming our way, featuring big Arab superstars and heightened, larger than life story plots. The following five shows are a few sure-fire standouts:

Al A’araf (The Fortune Teller) With Adel Al Imam as the lead actor, The Fortune Teller appears to be the most anticipated TV series this Ramadan. The show follows the

story of Imam’s character, who’s a professional Egyptian con-man who’s able to pass himself off as different people with different professions, like a successful doctor, fierce lawyer, an ambassador and also a fortune teller. Aside from his criminal record, the character also cons those who are close to him, even his own family. The show portrays the character’s brilliant knack for escaping justice and the failed attempts of the secret service to capture him.

Al Bait … Bait Aboona (Our Father’s House) This Kuwaiti show is a social drama with a hint of comedy that sheds some light on the many social issues common to the Arab world. The story follows the lives of two divorced sisters who move into their father’s house with their children. The two sisters face some trouble getting along, creating many comedic bits that act as comic relief from some of the more serious undertones of the plot.

Sanood Bad Qaleel (We Will Get Back Shortly)

Duraid Laham’s come-back to the acting scene after years of absence. We follow the story of a Syrian father who vists his children who reside in Lebanon. After a get-together full of disappointments, the father falls ill and the children face the dilemma of selling their father’s house to cover his medical bills. The show also sheds some light on the tragic situation of Syrian refugees in their camps at the Lebanese border – an interesting turn of events given the industry’s long silence regarding the crisis in Syria.

Khawater (Thoughts) Khawater enters its 9th season, reported to be its “weirdest season yet” according to host Ahmad Al Shughary. Khawater is a TV program that discusses the many issues Arab youth face in our modern day and, with feedback from youth, provides practical solutions. More often, the show travels to many places around the world to figure out different solutions to a problem, then applying it in the Arab world. Khawater has become one of the most successful Ramadan TV programs that motivates and encourages young adults to become dynamic and proactive members of their society. n

This dramatic Syrian show takes place in Lebanon and marks famous Syrian actor

22 QH July/Aug 2013 sri.indd 22

6/27/13 9:54 AM

QH July/Aug 2013 sri.indd 23

6/27/13 9:54 AM

Entertainment Coming September 19-21 at Aspire Dome. Get your tickets now!

Cirque du Soleil Presents: Dralion As told to Jorge Granda Photography by Daniel Desmarais courtesy of Cirque du Soleil

l, Canada, its 1999 premiere in Montrea ce sin de wi rld wo le op pe n ture millio tre of the Orient and the signa lus Acclaimed by more than seven the all th wi cle cta spe l is a colourfu ha at Cirque du Soleilâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Dralion wn for. The show lands in Do kno is e qu Cir the t tha cs ati take-your-breath-away acrob details. and QH has all the showtime Aspire Dome this September

using the 3,000 year-old tradition of Chinese acrobatic arts with the multidisciplinary approach of Cirque du Soleil, Dralion draws its inspiration from Eastern philosophy and its never-ending quest for harmony between humans and nature. The showâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s name is derived from its two emblematic creatures: the dragon, symbolizing the East, and the lion, symbolizing the West. In Dralion, the four elements that govern the natural order take on a human form. Thus embodied, each element is represented by its own evocative colour: air is blue; water

is green; fire is red; earth is ochre. In the world of Dralion, cultures blend, man and nature are one, and balance is achieved. Bearing the unmistakable signature of Cirque du Soleil and featuring 50 international acrobats, gymnasts, musicians and singers, Dralion soars to new heights as it defies the laws of nature. The show will run September 19-21 at Aspire Dome.

Ticketing: Exclusive tickets for Dralion are available now online to Cirque Club members. Cirque Club membership is free and benefits include access to advance tickets, special offers and exclusive behind the scenes information. To join visit www.cirqueclub.com

24 QH July/Aug 2013 sri.indd 24

6/27/13 9:54 AM

A single hand-balancer pushes the boundaries of strength and agility

The Oriental splendour of the show’s namesake Dralions

Characters: The playful personalities in Dralion are whimsical and elemental, represented with colourful The character Azala is the embodiment of air costumes inspired by the cultures of India, China and Africa. Blue Azala is air, ochre Gaya is earth, green Oceane is water and red Yao is fire. These central characters tie the show together amidst a host of supporting cast that includes an array of the Cirque’s classic clowns, its namesake Dralions –mythical beasts with aspects of both dragons and lions, and Kala, the central figure at the heart of the wheel that represents our life-cycle and time. Acts: It wouldn’t be a Cirque du Soleil performance without the renowned acrobatic segments it’s known for. Dralion is no exception with a dozen acts that cross the spectrum from aerial wizardry to feats of human strength and flexibility that are breath-taking. Which one will be your favourite?

•

The Crossed Wheel

•

The Diabolo

•

Dralions

•

Hoop Diving

•

Juggling

•

The Medusa

•

Single Hand-Balancing

•

Skipping Ropes

•

Trampoline n

The four elements personified

SHOW SCHEDULE DAY DATE Thursday September 19 Friday September 20 Saturday September 21

Ticket Prices: SHOW 1 6:00 p.m. 6:00 p.m. 6:00 p.m.

SHOW 2 9:30 p.m. 9:30 p.m. 9:30 p.m.

Tickets range from QR 250 to QR 2,000. A limited number of premium and front-row tickets are also available for all performances. Tickets available at www.cirquedusoleil.qa

25 QH July/Aug 2013 sri.indd 25

6/27/13 9:54 AM

Entertainment

Michael Bublé Is Back Images by Warwick Saint courtesy of Warner Brothers Records

The Canadian crooner is once again topping the charts with his latest release To Be Loved débuting back in April. As he’s set to start a full-on tour of both England and the U.S., we find out why he thinks this is his best album yet.

On Success And Keeping It Fresh “Do not think I take my success these last ten years for granted. I was anything but an overnight sensation which inspires me to deliver big-time for my fans – maybe even make some new ones this time out. Trust me, there’s no sitting back, no dialing in for me. I laboured over every song, every note and every arrangement because I can’t resist trying to make each record better than my last one. It helps that I’m pretty happy in my life at the moment and feel that I’ve really grown a lot as a songwriter and interpreter of great songs. On To Be Loved I felt a new sense of freedom to create and kind of take things further – maybe take a few risks and dig deep to find some gems.”

Just The Singles “For starters I wrote four songs – twice as many as on my previous record. Once again,

I wrote with my usual great collaborators including my musical director Alan Chang, Amy Foster Giles and Jann Arden. I also wrote with my fellow Canadian - the great Bryan Adams, eh...Little aside here… The first album I ever bought was Reckless in 1985 by Bryan Adams. He was such a big hero of mine and still is. Imagine how thrilling it was to write with him and then go into the studio and record ‘After All’ the song we wrote together. The first single, ‘It’s A Beautiful Day’ is what I’d call an ‘anti-love’ song – maybe a kind of revenge song. It sounds like a really happy song but if you listen closely it’s a song for all of us (yes I include myself,) who have been dumped but realize that it turned out to be the best thing that ever happened because life is beautiful out there and sometimes when your heart is broken you forget that. I’ve been the jerk in a relationship and have been on the receiving end of a break-up so I have a good perspective. I’d describe the song as the good and the bad of love. Another song I’m pretty proud of which I also

co-wrote is ‘Close Your Eyes’. I wrote it about my wife and about the power of all the women in my life – my sisters, my mom, my grandma and all women in general. Let’ s face it, where would we be without them? Some men may disagree, but I think we’re definitely not the stronger sex. ‘I Got It Easy’, another original, is basically a song where I count my blessings and is a reminder to me and everyone to appreciate all the good parts of life. I’m a very lucky guy and I never want to forget it.”

Star Power And ‘Cash’-ing On Reese Witherspoon “I’ve been a big fan of Reese Witherspoon for a long time and thought her performance as June Carter Cash was incredible. I was thrilled beyond belief when she agreed to sing the Nancy and Frank Sinatra classic ‘Something Stupid’ with me. She was a dream to work with and we’re both so happy with the way the song came out. I hope she’ll sing it with me on-stage

26 QH July/Aug 2013 sri.indd 26

6/27/13 1:32 PM

one day. I recorded the great Randy Newman song from Toy Story ‘You’ve Got A Friend In Me’ because I often feel like I’m still ten years old and I love the sentiment of that song. Who can’t relate to that message? Doesn’t matter what your age is. I think it’s the best album I’ve ever made…I know every artist on earth says that when their new album is coming out but really - this time it’s true. I swear. You can ask my mother. But don’t take my word for it or my Mom’s. Play it yourself and you’ll see and hear I’m telling the honest truth. I want to take you on a wonderful journey about love – all different kinds of love. The album swings big time – it rocks – it’s soulful – it’s happy –sometimes a little sad - it’s romantic – it’s yummy and it’s heartfelt. “

If you’re tr av and want to eling State-side this su of Michael catch a show on one mmer www.michaBublé’s U.S. tour visi of the legs t el schedule an buble.com for a full line-up d ticketing new album in To Be Love formation. His download d is also av off of iTun ailable for es.

Cover Michael Bublé’s Album

The Soul Of Sinatra “My album opens with ‘You Make Me Feel So Young’ and closes with the classic ‘Young At Heart’. The sentiment and message of both songs are quite similar. ‘You Make Me Feel So Young’ is surely one of the happiest songs I’ve ever recorded. We took the arrangement and really made it swing -- it’s pure joy. I’ve sung the song for years but it’s taken on new meaning for me now as I’m about to become a parent for the first time. ‘Young At Heart’ is my love letter to Mr. Sinatra and his early years on Columbia Records. I tried to honour him with this version and for those who still like to listen to an album from beginning to end, I’m glad it’s the message I leave people with when the music ends. It’s all about hope. “Life gets more exciting with each passing day… Love is either in your heart or on its way.” That’s what I call a perfect philosophy to have about life.”

Dynamic Duo “ None of these songs would be what they were without the help of my partner in crime, the great Bob Rock who helped me realize all my dreams with the songs on To Be Loved. He is a producer extraordinaire and was there 1,000 percent every day we were recording. Special thanks goes to the vocal talents of Naturally 7, The Puppini Sisters and The Dap Kings for perfecting the sound I was trying to create. I don’t know if people even read these things so if you’ve gotten this far, thank you for taking the time. I know I sing better than I write but I wanted you to understand a little bit about what I wanted to accomplish with To Be Loved. I hope you love my record. See you on the road.” n

formation: Michael Bublé’s Tour In LONDON/ DUBLIN TOUR

UNITED STATES TOUR:

June 28 : London, United Kingdom at THE MOTORPOINT ARENA Sheffield, UK (7:30 p.m.)

September 7 - November 30

June 30 -July 13: London, United Kingdom at THE O2 ARENA UK (7:30 p.m.) July 15-20: Dublin, Ireland at THE O2 ARENA DUBLIN (6:30 p.m.)

MAJOR U.S. CITIES: Sept 22: Washington, DC, VERIZON CENTER Sept 27: Boston, MA:, TD GARDEN Oct 20: Houston, TX, TOYOTA CENTER Oct 30: Orlando, FL, AMWAY CENTER Nov 23: Las Vegas, NV, MGM ARENA

TICKETS: http://www.viagogo.co.uk/Concert-Tickets/ Rock-and-Pop/Michael-Buble-Tickets

Nov 29: Los Angeles. CA: STAPLES CENTER

WEBSITE: www.michaelbuble.com

TICKETS: http://www.stubhub.com/michael-buble-tickets/

27 QH July/Aug 2013 sri.indd 27

6/27/13 9:54 AM

Entertainment

Summer

Jams By Ashlee Starratt

What summer road trip would be complete without good driving tunes? What pool party or BBQ would be the same without your favourite music to boost it into overdrive? We partnered with our friends at Sony Music Middle East to bring you the top three hottest new summer releases to keep on max volume.

: Daft Punk Access Maemories Random ic umbi Sony Mus /Col If you haven’t heard their fresh track Get Lucky on constant radio replay you’re probably not getting out enough. The kings of electronica are back with their fourth studio album since 2005’s Human After All, with a sound that’s a throwback to the soul and funk era of the 1970s and 80s. This is the first album where the French duo has worked with live musicians instead of using synthesizers to back-up their tracks. Standout summer songs are Give Life Back To Music, Instant Crush and Touch with their meld of rock-meets-robotic. Fans of Daft Punk will still taste the traditional techno the group is known for but with a bit of retro thrown into the mix to take you that extra mile.

: Little MixDelu xe Edition) DNA (The SYCO Music ic/ Sony Mus

The début album from these Brit pop princesses is just the ticket to get the gang out on the dance-floor – even if that means the middle of your living room! Having won the 8th season of Britain’s X-Factor, Little Mix are climbing the charts with number one hits in both the UK and Ireland and are poised to go big across the globe. Their first single Wings shows off the girls’ tight harmonies with an ultra-catchy beat, while title track DNA peaked at number three on the UK charts. If you’re into the likes of fellow Brit lasses Girls Aloud, we think it’s safe to throw yourself into Little Mix.

Visit www.sony-mea.com for the latest news on new releases and upcoming works from all your favourite artists.

Snoop Lion: Reincarnated Records Sony Music/RCA A ‘Dogg’ no more, our man Snoop is back with a revived identity and even a new name for his 12th studio album, Reincarnated. The controversial American rapper has embraced the Rastafarian ideology and is now styling himself as Snoop Lion and his latest musical offering is a tribute to reggae. For hard-core Snoop fans, this album will be a bit of a shock to the system. Though still laying it down with his mile-aminute lyrics the whole thing has a different, more mainstream feel to it. We wouldn’t call it a rap album per se but what it does offer is pretty catchy if you’re looking for something new. It’s still a who’s who of cameos with Drake, Chris Brown, Akon, Busta Rhymes and even Miley Cyrus all taking turns on various tracks with the top dog…er, lion. The lead single Ashtrays and Heartbreaks featuring Cyrus has had significant play on the airwaves already and tracks like Lighters Up featuring Jamaican musicians Mavado and Popcaan will have you tripping to the beats of the islands. n

28 QH July/Aug 2013 sri.indd 28

6/27/13 9:54 AM

Oryx rotana

QH July/Aug 2013 sri.indd 29

6/27/13 9:54 AM

Entertainment

’ n i p p s o g H n i y n

Part

e p p a H

! n o i t i d E l o o P

r summe ne s i h t e t ! re rising high. Medakto hop on a aplla s u g /Aumperatures a s. You don’t ne of the best loc y l u J to ed and the te ork and stres delivers a list sun! e m e o w riv Weoltcsummer hasveadr time out from’s Jorge Graenudlatimate fun in th The h well-deser holidays. QH tours for th break a ike you’re on d wet ‘n wild l to feel e hangouts an poolsid GRAND HYATT DOHA Poolside Luxury

Jaula Spa’s Health Club features a 25-metre four-lane indoor lap pool and three outdoor pools, including a children’s pool. But the main attraction is without a doubt poolside at Rocca. A super-chic hangout spot, it’s the perfect place to unwind and feel like you have it all, and with Rocca right next to the pool, you can enjoy delicious dishes and sip your favourite drinks. Craving some sand under your toes? A short walk away is the beach where you can feel like you’re on holidays at your very own luxurious resort. Timings: Outdoor pools and beach: 7:00a.m. till sunset Indoor pool: From 5:00 a.m. till 11:00 p.m. Rocca restaurant:From 10:00 a.m. till 12:00 midnight Prices: Pool and beach access: QR 150 per person per day for weekdays Pool and beach access: QR 200 per person per day for weekends For more information call 4448-1060/61.

THE HILTON DOHA Swimming Pool & Private Beach

This summer escape your daily stresses and lounge on the golden sands of the Hilton Doha’s private beach. Relax in complete comfort as the beach area comes fully-equipped with a temperature- controlled infinity swimming pool, chaise lounges and umbrellas. Quench your thirst with an extraordinary cocktail from Bab el Baher restaurant and delight your taste buds with a delectable poolside lunch. Timings: From 7:00 a.m. till 7:00 p.m. Prices: Weekdays: QR 170 Weekends: QR 250 Ladies Mondays: QR 80 For more information call 4423-3441.

30 QH July/Aug 2013 sri.indd 30

6/27/13 9:54 AM

THE RITZ – CARLTON DOHA

ORYX ROTANA

The Splash

The pool at The Ritz – Carlton Doha is definitely one of my favourites and I highly recommend it. It’s decked-out in very well-designed artificial rock formations and surrounded by tall green palm trees with a waterfall in the middle of the pool right in front of the bar. It resembles a lagoon in the middle of the desert. The atmosphere is also fantastic. Great music can be heard from every corner, and let’s not forget the ocean view, which is sensational. For those who prefer to be away from the sun, The Ritz-Carlton also has a massive indoor Olympic swimming pool.

Timings: From 8:00 p.m. onwards Price: No entrance fee Location: 1st floor, Oryx Rotana

Timings: The outdoor pool area is open from 5:30 a.m. till sunset for spa members and from 6:00 a.m. to sunset for non-members. The indoor pool area is open from 5:30 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. for spa members and from 6:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. for non-members.

Play Desert Volleyball

Desert volleyball is an exciting outdoor sport offered at the desert camp. Enjoy the thrill of this youth-centric sport played on a sand court. Tour Duration: Four hours Timings: From 9:00 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. Itinerary : • Pick up from any location within Doha city limits • 45-minute drive from Doha to Sealine • Proceed to Regency Holidays Bedouin desert camp for desert volleyball • Enjoy other desert activities such as sand-boarding • Break for refreshing snacks at desert camp • Drop off to any location within Doha City limits Prices: No. of Cost People per person 1 QR 850 2 QR 425 3 QR 300 4 QR 225 5 QR 200

Head To The Pool & Beach This Summer

Pool Paradise

The Pool Lounge at the Oryx Rotana will make your summer nights rock. Italian DJ Gab sets the atmosphere with a mix of eclectic sounds that live up to his motto to “play music that makes people move.” The Italian DJ has great experience in exclusive clubs and disco-lounge bars in Italy, performing for many years with a broad knowledge of music that runs the gamut from lounge-ethnic to deep house and rock and blues to reggae. At Splash you can also have delicious snacks and light meals to enjoy poolside.

REGENCY TRAVEL & TOURS

THE DIPLOMATIC CLUB

Price: Both pools and aqua facilities are included for all spa members or available to non-nembers with a day-spa pass. Sun-Thurs: QR 150 per person Fri & Sat:QR 250 per person Location: Lobby and lower lobby levels

REGENCY TRAVEL & TOURS

Explore The Inland Sea

Located on the outskirts of Doha, the Inland Sea or Khor Al Daid is a huge inlet surrounded by giant rolling sand dunes. It’s truly one of the most impressive sites in Qatar. You can even see Saudi Arabia from a distance. Sightseeing-wise it’s a spectacular spot to park your car, pack a cooler and go for a swim. Tour Duration: Four hours Timings: From 9:00 a.m. till 2:30 p.m. Itinerary:

• •

Pick up from any location within Doha city limits Photo opportunities with camels and falcons in Sealine • Drive around in Khor Al Daid on smooth roads • Break for refreshments • Photo stop at the lagoon then continuing to Inland Sea • Swimming in the Inland Sea • Drop off to any location within Doha city limits Prices: No. of Cost People per person 1 QR 850 2 QR 450 3 QR 300 4 QR 250 5 QR 225

The Diplomatic Club’s pool and beach have been a favourite Doha escape for years. With their intimate and excellent facilities, it’s ideal for families and singles alike! You can literally put your feet up , soak in the rays and tuck into a great choice of drinks , snacks and light meals served right to your sun lounger! If you thought that was impressive, how about this for a great deal: for the whole summer the club is giving everyone great discounted rates on pool and beach access and letting kids under five in for free! Promotion Rates (weekdays) Adults: QR/100 Kids: (5 – 17yrs) QR/50 Promotion Rates (weekends) Adults QR/125 Kids (5 – 17yrs) QR/70 NOTE:

• • • • •

Special rates available from June 1 till August 30, 2013. Limited number of entrance available on a daily basis. Cannot be combined with other offers or promotions. The special entrance fees are for pool and beach access only. No inquiries taken into consideration after the above-mentioned date.

THE WEST END RENAISSANCE DOHA CITY CENTER

Aqua Lounge

From sunrise to sunset, the Renaissance Doha City Center’s friendly poolside servers will anticipate your every whim. Quench your thirst with cooling cocktails and exotic juices on your Dedon lounger at Aqua Lounge, or choose from a delicious array of international favourites in their beautiful shaded dining area. Enjoy a wide range of facilities including: • A 35m x 12m outdoor pool • A children’s outdoor pool • Two outdoor Jacuzzis • A fully-equipped gym with a large range of freeweights, Power Plates and cardio equipment • Separate male and female changing rooms with lockers, showers, sauna and steamrooms Timings: From 7:00 a.m. till 9:00 p.m. Price: Weekdays: adults QR 180, kids QR 100 Weekends: adults QR 220, kids QR 120

31 QH July/Aug 2013 sri.indd 31

6/27/13 9:54 AM

AHB Listings - July-Aug. 2013.pdf

6/15/13

2:15 PM

CMY

QH July/Aug 2013 sri.indd 32

6/27/13 9:54 AM

Entertainment Listings RECOMMENDS

d tegorize s are ca is g in t s li All sion el. Inclu bility of per hot a il n to to ava rity give limited io r p h it w space, ers. advertis

KEMPINSKI RESIDENCES & SUITES Cigar Nights

Sundays: The Lounge. (Not valid during Ramadan.) Discover an exclusive selection of Cuban cigars, pair them with your favourite cocktail and indulge in fine savoury bites along with jazzy sounds from a band. From 8:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. For more information call 4405-3325 or email restaurants.doha@kempinski.com or visit www.kempinski.com/doha.

GRAND REGAL African Night

July 4: Bar Rancho’s. Enjoy an African theme night with the finest and most talented mix-master. QR 100 for men and QR 80 for ladies. From 8:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. For more information call 4409-4600/4409-4444 or email: sales@grandregal.com.

PROMOTIONS THE RITZ-CARLTON DOHA Art of Cocktail Class

Aug 23: Habanos. Meet the Habanos team for an immersion in the art of creating exciting drinks. Book for five, and pat for four. . QR 225 per person. From 5:00 p.m. till 7:00 p.m. For more information call please contact 4484-8504 or email rc.dohrz.leads@ritzcarlton.com or levy.ramirez@ritzcarlton.com.

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA Red Hot

July 4: Paloma& Lava. Red-themed party with two dance-floors, one urban and one house.With DJ Sam, DJ Shadi, Chris Hughes, Yaser Zain, DJ Kaabi, Xwoolf and DJ Pyrokiss. 21+ only. For more information call 4484-4919.

W DOHA Arabesque Night

July 6: Crystal. The nightclub proudly presents Arabesque Night: LAYALI 1001 NIGHTS with the stars JAMIL & FADI performing the latest Arabic songs and DJ IMRAN mixing the best of R&B and commercial house. For more information call 4453- 5135 or email bnfreservations.wdoha@whotels.com.

Just Crystal

July 7: Crystal. Resident DJ Tobias mixing up the best of R&B, hip-hop and old school with a special twist. From 11:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. For more information call 4453- 5135 or email bnfreservations.wdoha@whotels.com

WEST END THE RENAISSANCE DOHA CITY CENTER Quiz Night

Aug 12: Champions. Happy Times from 5:00 p.m. till 7:00 p.m. Quiz starts at 7:30 p.m. Bring your team for a chance to win the first prize of QR 5,000. Free entry. For more information call 4419-6100.

EVERY WEEK GRAND REGAL HOTEL Ladies Night

Weds & Thurs: Bar Rancho’s. (Not valid during Ramadan.)Enjoy a special Ladies Night. Ladies get free entry, free membership and one free drink. Gents pay entrance QR 50 entrance fee and get one free drink in the bar. From 8:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. For more information call 4409-4600/4409-4444 or email: sales@grandregal.com.

Half Note Wednesdays

Wednesdays: The Lounge. (Not valid during Ramadan.) Funky saxophone sounds, upbeat mixes from the DJ, unique ambiance, trendy crowd and hip cocktails make up the new talk-of-the-town night at The Lounge. From 7:00 p.m. till midnight. For more information call 4405-3325, email restaurants.doha@kempinski.com or visit www.kempinski.com/doha.

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA THE CITY After Work Evenings

Daily (After Ramadan): Hive. Every evening from 5:00 p.m. till 7:00 p.m. buy-one-get-one-free on selected beverages. For more information call 4015-8888 or email doharestaurants@ihg.com.

Live DJ Rico

Sun – Fri (After Ramadan): Dance to the tunes of DJ Rico and chill-out, Buddha bar-style to funky house music. From 9:30 p.m. till late. For more information call 4015- 8888 or email doharestaurants@ihg.com.

Martini Night

Wednesdays (After Ramadan): Strata. Buy-oneget-free beverage and 20 % off food if the table has ladies. For more information call 4015-8888 or email doharestaurants@ihg.com.

Happy Hour

Daily: Bar Rancho’s. (Not valid during Ramadan.) Bar Rancho’s offers its guests a relaxing way to end the day or to begin an enjoyable Doha night. Buy one and get one free every day from 5:00 p.m. till 7:00 p.m. For more information call 4409-4600/4409-4444 or email: sales@grandregal.com.

that some Please note romotions will events and p after Ramadan. only resume

33 QH July/Aug 2013 sri.indd 33

6/27/13 1:38 PM

Entertainment Listings RECOMMENDS

RADISSON BLU Ladies Night

Sundays: The Qube. Ladies will receive two complimentary drinks from 8:00p.m. Membership required. For more information call 4428-1428.

THE DIPLOMATIC CLUB BBQ Donut

Looking to set sail on the Arabian Gulf? Searching for an exclusive dining place or a fun experience? Set up for 8 people the BBQ Donut will take you on the West Bay shores to enjoy unparalleled views of the city while savouring an exquisite dining experience. QR 180 including chilled juices, mineral water and soft drinks. Rental fees: 1 hour for QR 450, 2 hours for QR 800. Additional 30 mins for QR 200. During Ramadan opening hours are from Iftar time till 10:00 p.m. daily, offering the same BBQ Donut menu. For information and reservation call 4484-7450 or email spa.recreation@dclub.com.qa.

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA Theme Nights At Lava

(All promotions resume after Ramadan) Sundays –Hospitality Nights with DJ Yasser. 50% discount on food and beverage for hoteliers and cabin crew. Mondays – Power Hours with DJ Xwoolf. Different drink specials every hour. Tuesdays – Ladies Night. Doha’s most exclusive Ladies Night with DJ Shadi and DJ Xwoolf. Unlimited free drinks for ladies from 8:00 p.m. till midnight. For more information call 4484-4919 or 4484-4444.

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA Doha’s Biggest Ladies Night

Wednesdays (After Ramadan): Paloma. Officially the biggest Ladies Night in Doha, with two rooms playing all your favourite tunes and genres! The UnaRepublica band will kick off the night in Paloma playing the best live music from 9:00 p.m., then DJ Shadi will continue in Paloma playing the best of commercial house, R&B and hip-hop. The centre door will be open allowing you to pass between the two rooms as you wish. As usual there will be unlimited free selected drinks for ladies at the bar in Paloma from 10:00 p.m. until late! QR 80 entrance for men, ladies enter free of charge. Lava or Paloma membership required. Membership can be issued at the door with a valid Qatari I.D. or original passport. 21+ only. Open from 5:00 p.m. till 1:00 a.m. Saturday to Tuesday, and from 5:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. Wednesday to Friday. For more information call 4484-4919 or 4484-4444.

LA CIGALE HOTEL

Ladies Night (After Ramadan): Madison Piano Bar. Ladies Night with DJ Roger Choueiry. Save your Sundays for the vibrant Ladies Night and dedicate your favourite songs to your special one while ladies joining in will enjoy one welcome drink on the house. From 6:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. Membership required. For more information call 4428-8665.

ER T S I G E R Esletter I5N ONeeL w e n kly

ORYX ROTANA Hospitality Night

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

Diva Tuesdays

Tuesdays (After Ramadan): The Jazz Club. Every Tuesday join in and enjoy buy-one-get-one free on cocktails, house vino and bubbly. From 9:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. For more information call 4402-3333.

The Cellar’s Sangria Night

Wednesdays (After Ramadan): The Cellar. Every Wednesday experience all the flavours and atmosphere of a real Spanish bar, right here in Doha. Unlimited sangria for QR 180 per person from 7:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4402-3333.

The Jazz Club Happy Hour

Daily (After Ramadan): The Jazz Club. There’s nothing better than Happy Hour at the Jazz Club after a full day! Now you can bring your friends and make sure your night starts in style! From 6:00 p.m. till 8:00 p.m. every day with a super offer of buy-one-get-one-free. For more information call 4402-3333.

THE RITZ – CARLTON DOHA Marina Nights

Wed – Sat (After Ramadan): Admiral’s Club. Live bands and DJ music invade both floors of the Admiral’s Club every day of the week except Sundays. Get started for the weekend nights with everything on the menu single-priced at QR 25 from Wednesday to Saturday. From 8:00 p.m. till 10:00 p.m. For more information call 4484-8663 or email: dilip.kumar@ritzcarlton.com.

Suds Bucket

Mon-Sat (After Ramadan): Habanos. Pay for five and get one for free after happy hour. From 8:30 p.m. till 1:00 a.m. For more information call 4484-8504 or email rc.dohrz.leads@ritzcarlton.com.

W DOHA Urban Night

Tuesdays (After Ramadan): Crystal. Crystal resident DJ Tobias mixes up the best of R&B, hip-hop and old school. Ladies sip three on the house. From 10:30 p.m. till 12:00 a.m. For more information call 4453-5135 or email bnfreservations.wdoha@whotels.com.

WEEKEND KEMPINSKI RESIDENCES & SUITES INFUSE-d Cocktails

Thursdays (After Ramadan): The Lounge. The expert mixologists of The Lounge, for the first time in Doha, compiled a new cocktail menu with infused spirits, extravagant and innovative flavours and top-of-the-top ingredients. From 7:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. For more information call 4405-3325 or email restaurants.doha@kempinski.com or visit www.kempinski.com/doha.

for the W rhappening.com ta www.qa

34 QH July/Aug 2013 sri.indd 34

6/27/13 9:55 AM

Sparkling Fridays

Fridays (After Ramadan): The Lounge. Fridays at The Lounge are bright and sparkling! Every Friday, all ladies receive two complimentary glasses of bubbly. From 8:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. For more information call 4405-3325 or email restaurants.doha@kempinski.com or visit www.kempinski.com/doha.

Hoteliers Happy Day

Saturdays (After Ramadan): The Lounge. All Doha hoteliers are more than welcome to enjoy a complimentary 20% discount on the final bill of their dinner or drinks in Aroma or The Lounge when presenting their business cards or hotel I.D. card. From 7:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. For more information call 4405-3325 or email restaurants.doha@kempinski.com or visit www.kempinski.com/doha.

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA THE CITY DJ At Hive

Thurs & Fri (After Ramadan): Hive. Enjoy the weekend by listening to Hiveâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s resident DJ. From 9:00 p.m. till late. For more information call 4015-8888 or email doharestaurants@ihg.com.

Cosmopolitan Thursdays

Thursdays (After Ramadan): The Square. From 6:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. enjoy a great night with friends. QR 290 including selected house beverages and QR 210 including soft drinks and mocktails. For more information call 4015-8888 or email doharestaurants@ihg.com.

THE DOHA MARRIOTT R&B Night

Fridays: (After Ramadan): The Pearl Lounge. Enjoy a night of the best R&B in Doha. For more information call 4429-8499.

Sophisticated Weekends

Thurs & Fri (After Ramadan): Habanos. Come and discover Habanos, a retreat into the sophistication of days gone by. Enjoy the perfect hand-rolled cigar with 25% savings from all selections. From 5:00 p.m. till 1:00 a.m. For more information call 4484-8504 or email rc.dohrz.leads@ritzcarlton.com.

THE ST. REGIS DOHA High Heels Night

Fridays (After Ramadan): Vintage Lounge. Step into the glamourous and elegant Vintage Lounge for a ladies night out. Enjoy a complimentary second drink, plus ladies also enjoy 50% off on selected beverages from 9: 00 p.m. till 1:00 a.m. For more information call 4446-0105 or email diningreservations@stregis.com.

Picante Nights

Fridays (After Ramadan): Vintage Lounge. Every Friday is Picante Night in Vintage Lounge! Spicy live Latin music and complimentary tapas from 7:00 p.m. till 9:00 p.m. Ladies enjoy 25% off throughout the evening on selected beverages. For more information call 4446-0105 or email diningreservations@stregis.com.

35 QH July/Aug 2013 sri.indd 35

6/27/13 9:55 AM

Entertainment Directory

ER REGIST E I5N ONeeL sletter kly new for the W rhappening.com ta www.qa

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

4425-6666

Lava Lounge InterContinental Doha

4484-4444

Shehrazad Radisson Blu

4428-1428

Belgian Café InterContinental Doha

4484-4444

Le Club Mercure Grand Hotel

4446-2222

Sky View La Cigale

Bubbles on Two Radisson Blu

4428-1428

Champions West End Renaissance Doha

Liquidity Crowne Plaza – The Business Park

4419-6100

Cigar Lounge Sharq Village & Spa

Manhattan Radisson Blu

4428-1428

4425-6666

Marina Nightclub Ritz-Carlton Doha

4448-4800

Club 7 La Cigale

4428-8888

Crystal Lounge W Doha

4453-5135

Dunes Lounge Grand Hyatt

4448-1234

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

4419-6100 4484-8000

Jazz at Lincoln Center The St. Regis Doha

4446-0000

Jazz Club Oryx Rotana

4402-3333

Misturado Crowne Plaza Doha – The Business Park

4408-7777

Orion Radisson Blu

4428-1428

Oyster Bay & Bar The St. Regis Doha

4446-0105

Paloma InterContinental Doha

4484-4444

Pearl Lounge Doha Marriott

4429-8888

Qube Radisson Blu

4428-1428

4428-8888

Spike’s Lounge Doha Golf Club

4496-0777

Strata Lounge InterContinental Doha The City

4015-8888

The Irish Harp Sheraton Doha

4485-4444

The Library Radisson Blu

4428-1428

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

4405-3325

Vintage Lounge The St. Regis Doha

4446-0105

Wahm W Doha

4453-5353

36 QH July/Aug 2013 sri.indd 36

6/27/13 9:55 AM

QH July/Aug 2013 sri.indd 37

6/27/13 9:55 AM

QH July/Aug 2013 sri.indd 38

6/27/13 9:55 AM

Arts & Culture

s k c i P p o T ’s h t This Mon

Katara DFI Cinema ‘The Sapphires’ Until July 19: Based on a true story about a 1960s girl group who left the Australian outback to embark on the adventure of a lifetime. ‘The Sapphires is a joyous tale of sisterhood, beating the odds and good old-fashioned soul music. Tickets on sale at www.dohafilminstitute.com or at any DFI Ticket Outlets.

Qatar National Library Heritage Collection

Sun & Tues (July/Aug): The QNL’s remarkable Heritage Collection is a rare trove of manuscripts, books, and artifacts documenting a wealth of Arab-Islamic civilization and human thought. Among its more than 100,000 works, the collection contains an edition of Ptolemy’s Geographia, which was printed in Rome in 1478 and is the oldest printed map showing the name of Qatar or referred to in Latin as ‘Catara’. Entry is free with public tours every Sunday & Tues from 10:00 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. For more information call 4454-2555 or email heritagelibrary@qf.org.qa

Mathaf

Museum Of Islamic Art

Ferozkoh: Traditional Arts From Contem porary Afghanistan

Until July 20: Part of the Qatar UK 2013 Year of Culture, this exhibition features 90 historical pieces from the MIA’s collection, representing four great Afghan dynasties. Also featured are items created by the Institute for Afghan Arts and Architecture in Kabul. The Institute is the school of the Turquoise Mountain Trust – a UK-based charity. For more information visit www.mia.org.qa/exhibitions/ferozkoh.

Ehtifal Family Festiryval and QMA pre-

Sat 5 (July): The Serpentine Galle that places the sent a free, one-day family festival of Another Top on Rock ture, sculp eiss Fischli/W ington Kens ng linki e scap land sy Rock, in a fanta featurmap floor le -sca Gardens to Qatar. A large in both places ing real and imagined landmarks and found underpins the fantasy with natural a crossfor s gner desi and ts artis objects. Join and Arabic. For cultural adventure in both English haf.org.qa. more information visit www.mat

OUT om .c CHECaK ppening

atarh tion! www.qthe latest informa for

The British Council The Old Doha Prize Until July 31: Apply now for this design residency competition – part of the Qatar UK 2013 Year of Culture. Teams will be asked to explore the process of regeneration and potential for incorporating the heritage and history of Old Doha into their designs. For more information on how to participate email QatarUK2013@grayling.com.

39 QH July/Aug 2013 sri.indd 39

6/27/13 9:55 AM

Arts & Culture

From the streets of Brighton in the UK to the stages of Doha, STOMP brought down the house at the QNCC this June

Children’s classic Wallace and Gromit screened as part of the DFI UK Cinema Showcase.

e g id r B l a r u lt u C A g in Build By Victoria Scott Images courtesy of Qatar UK 2013

We examine the ties between two nations as the Qatar UK 2013 Year Of Culture kicks off with a host of educational programs designed to foster appreciation and cultural exchange.

hen London’s Mayor Boris Johnson visited Qatar recently, he said he was struck by the number of Qataris who told him that they felt that the UK’s capital city was their second home. Thousands of Qataris visit not only London, but all corners of the British Isles every year, and many choose to stay to study and work - they seem to have a natural affinity for the place. And conversely, thousands of Britons move to Qatar every year too, drawn by unparalleled employment opportunities. Many choose to stay for years. The relationship between the two countries goes back a long way. A British protectorate until 1971, Qatar has never lost its alliance with the UK, and the two countries’ royal families remain close friends. It’s not surprising then that the Qatar Museum Authority’s Strategic Cultural Relations department chose to make this relationship official. Following on from last year’s successful Qatar – Japan tie-up, this year is all about the UK – Qatar UK 2013, to be exact. The year is arranged in eight ‘pillars’ – Art & Design, Sport, Film & Media, Performing Arts, Community Building, Science & Research, Education and Sustainability. Over 70 different events exploring these titles are planned throughout the year in both the UK and Qatar. Highlights included bringing British percussion

phenomenon STOMP to Qatar in June in partnership with The Art of Business, an associate of Ahmed Hassan Bilal Group and Premium Projects, as well as Qatar’s well-received ‘Pearls’ exhibition going on display at London’s Victoria and Albert Museum in September. Radical British artist Damien Hirst will also be exhibiting at QMA’s Al Riwaq space from October 2013 until January 2014 – an event which will surely be the talk of the town. Although these are enjoyable, exciting events, the year is about much more than just entertainment, says Martin Hope, Director of the British Council in Qatar, which is helping co-ordinate Qatar-UK 2013. “It’s about boosting trust between the two countries” he tells me. “The more people-to-people engagement there is between any two countries, the more it strengthens ties and cooperation, increasing understanding. And this year will also boost the knowledge economies of both countries. Because when you work together, 1+1 = 3.” Martin believes that the ‘Community Building’ pillar is one of the most important parts of the year. “Because there are events in both Qatar and the UK, people in the UK are learning a lot more about Qatari culture and the Arabic language, and people here in Qatar are learning more about the UK creative industries” he says. It’s because of this ‘community building’ element that Qatar UK 2013 has appointed Qatari ambassadors, ready to take the message

Martin Hope, Director of the British Council in Qatar

out into the community. One of them is Aisha Ghanem Al Attiya, a 28-year old Senior Project Specialist at the Qatar Museums Authority. I meet her in the elegant surroundings of the Museum of Islamic Art. She’s smiling from ear to ear and emanates enthusiasm – I can see immediately why she’s been chosen for the role. “I made a big decision after working in HR [human resource], for five years to jump companies and move to the QMA, and I’ve never regretted it”, she tells me. “I love learning about cultures, and I love explaining Qatari culture as well.” Her involvement has led her to meeting Prince Charles (“It was amazing – we had two minutes to chat – he was very friendly, rather than too official”) and taken her out of the office and into the community. I ask her what her favourite event of the year is. “Well, firstly, I love STOMP,” she says. “Because there’s no language, it’s for everyone. Anyone can go watch it and we’re all going to feel the same way about it. And the other thing I particularly love is the community outreach programs. We’ve been visiting schools in the

40 QH July/Aug 2013 sri.indd 40

6/27/13 3:29 PM

The British royal family, H.H. Prince Charles and The Duchess of Cambridge, Camilla Parker-Bowles, tour the Arts and Disability Festival held earlier this spring at Katara. Accompanying the royal visit is Qatar’s Minister of Culture, H.E. Dr. Hamad bin Abdulaziz Al-Kuwari (right foreground) and Martin Hope, Director of the British Council in Qatar (far right)

UK and Qatar, including the Shafallah School for the disabled. We’ve been asking the children to express something about Qatar by drawing something, and we’re going to exhibit the art. The whole idea of the project is to involve the community, not just on a high level, but on a level that children can understand too.” Qatar UK 2013 is also working to support adult artists. It’s been promoting the Create and Inspire competition – run by British charity the Crossway Foundation. The competition is searching for the most talented 16-25-year old artists, photographers and filmmakers living in Saudi Arabia, the UAE and Qatar. The winners will go to the UK to further develop their skills with major artists later this year. After the year is over, what will the effect on long term relations be? Martin believes that Qatar UK will leave behind a real legacy. “We’re looking at long term partnerships, for the benefit of both countries” he says. “In the fields of higher education, for example, our countries share the same ambitions, to do research about health and social sciences. The UK is very keen to internationalize its research and support Qatar in its developments. There will be a UK Qatar

About Qatar UK 2013: Find out more at www.qataruk2013.com

task force which will oversee and be a catalyst for these relationships.” Aisha is clearly hoping that the year will help British people understand Qatar a little better. I ask her what she’d say to a British person who didn’t know much about Qatar. “I’d say it has developed a lot in recent years, through the work of the Emir,” she says. “The QMA is encouraging art and expanding cultural links, through things like Qatar UK 2013. It’s all part of the national vision. I’d say that Qatar has a rich culture, and if you make an effort to understand that culture, then you will understand Qatar more.”n

Aisha Ghanem Al Attiya, Qatar UK Cultural Ambassador

Qatar UK was there at the 2013 Qatar International Food Festival, where diners chowed down with their feet dangling!

Find them on Facebook www.facebook.com/QatarUK2013 Follow them on Twitter www.twitter.com/qataruk2013

41 QH July/Aug 2013 sri.indd 41

6/27/13 9:55 AM

Arts & Culture Mathaf is the perfect indoor retreat this summer to expand your mind and get artsy..

A selected work from the Forever Now exhibit

F A H T A M t A r e Summ It’s no secret more Arab artists are becoming well-known for their bodies of work and extraordinary talents. This summer Mathaf: Arab Museum of Modern Art is paying tribute to Arab art with the ‘Selection from the Collection’ exhibition and by extending the run of ‘Forever Now: Five Anecdotes from the Permanent Collection’.

ast month, Mathaf: Arab Museum of Modern Art has opened an engaging new exhibition entitled Selections from the Collection that will run till the end of the summer. Highlighting some of the best in contemporary Arab art, the showcase is part of Mathaf’s continuing mission to share its collection with the public.

The exhibition covers three galleries on the ground floor of the museum located near Education City. Drawn from the permanent collection, the artworks in this exhibition highlight the artists’ use of visual elements such as form, colour and lines to create predominantly non-figurative compositions. Works by artists such as Mohamed Melehi, Ali Hassan and Ahmed Nawar that have been on display in previous Mathaf exhibitions are shown alongside newly-featured artists and artworks. Selections from the Collection runs until Saturday, August 31.

To provide visitors the opportunity to view works from Mathaf’s collection through multiple perspectives, the current exhibition Forever Now: Five Anecdotes from the Permanent Collection is extended until Sunday, October 6 in the first floor galleries. The exhibition posits a new understanding of five diverse modern Arab artists: Fahre lnissa Zeid, Jewad Selim, Saliba Al-Doueihy, Salim Al-Dabbagh and Ahmed Cherkaoui. Forever Now examines these artists’ interactions with their immediate environments, histories, and cultures. The extended show also features additional works by Ahmed Cherkaoui.

Forever Now and Selections from the Collection are key platforms for research about Arab artists and artworks, as well as the context of their production. These two exhibitions provide an insightful look into the diversity of works that are owned by the museum, ranging from paintings and works on paper to mixed media and sculptures.

Admission to these exhibitions is free of charge. For more information visit www.mathaf.org.qa. About Mathaf Mathaf: Arab Museum of Modern Art opened in 2010 in a former school building in Doha’s Education City. The museum’s collection offers a rare comprehensive overview of modern Arab art, representing the major trends and sites of production spanning the 1840s through the present. Mathaf also presents exhibitions that situate the Arab world in relation to a larger art context. The museum offers programs that engage the local and international communities, encourages research and scholarship, and contributes to the cultural landscape of the Gulf region, the Middle East, the Arab Diaspora, and beyond.n

42 QH July/Aug 2013 sri.indd 42

6/27/13 9:55 AM

ramadan at the finest address in Qatar The St. Regis Doha is the place to be this Ramadan. Lavish decorations and extensive buffets guarantee the grandest Ramadan experience in Qatar. Private cabanas are available in the ballroom and feature exclusive butler service. Each guest in the private cabana will be served with a selection of mezze. Upon arrival all guests will be traditionally welcomed with Arabic coffee and dates. entertainment Live entertainment by Laialy El Nagham, resident band of the Cairo Opera House. dining The menu comprises of a grand buffet with a wide range of variety and extensive live cooking stations featuring cuisine from all over the world including regional delicacies. children’s zone Dedicated area for children Exclusive children’s buffet set-up in the Recreation Room Special entertainment programs Special activity on the 15th day of Ramadan to celebrate “Garengao” Iftar - QAR 230 per guest. Iftar will be available starting at sunset until 7:30pm. Suhor - QAR 270 per guest. Suhor will start at 9pm until 2am. For reservations, call +974.4446.0105, email us at diningreservations@stregis.com or visit stregisdoha.com/ramadan 10 guests or more required for a cabana booking (credit card required) al gassar resort at west bay stregisdoha.com 974.4446.0000

a legacy of luxury . now at over

of the world ’ s

finest hotels africa

©2010–2013 Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. All Rights Reserved. Preferred Guest, SPG, St. Regis and their logos are the trademarks of Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc., or its affiliates.

QH July/Aug 2013 sri.indd 43 St Regis_Qatar Happening_Ramadan Ad_20x26.5.indd 1

resorts .

the americas

europe

asia

the middle east

stregis.com

6/27/13 PM 20/6/13 12:43 4:47 PM

Arts & Culture Listings RECOMMENDS

Museum Guide

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

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

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

IAID Summer Workshops

July/Aug: Offering dynamic summer courses for kids ages 4-18, IAID’s programs include hip-hop training, modern jazz, Indian folk dance, stained glass creativity, keyboards in concert and many more. For inquiries, prices and registration information visit www.iaidonline.com.

ONE OF A KIND QATAR MUSEUMS AUTHORITY ‘Calligraffiti Murals’ by El Seed

Ongoing: Underground road tunnels, Salwa Road. The QMA’s Public Art Department and the Public Works Authority (Ashgal) have commissioned French-Tunisian graffiti artist, El Seed, to create a series of 52 large-scale works for the four underground tunnels of the main highway off Salwa Road. Over a period of months, following a series of successful workshops with students at the Museum of Islamic Art in 2010, El Seed has executed these spectacular works with a group of students from Doha. Each features different and unique themes inspired by Qatari culture and draws on El Seed’s interest in Arabic calligraphy fused with contemporary street art, which he refers to as ‘calligraffiti’. For more information visit www.qma.com.qa.

WEEKLY AL RUMEILA Al Rumeila Park Art Gallery

Daily: Al Rumeila landscaped park on the Corniche has an Art Gallery, open from 9:00 a.m. till 12:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m. till 9:00 p.m. daily. Entrance is free.

TER REGISINE r wslette ONeeL kly 5 ne om W .c for the tarhappening a www.q

MUSEUM OF ISLAMIC ART A Course in Ruqa’a and Naskhi Scripts

Sun-Thurs: Teachers Room, 2nd Floor. Calligraphy workshops at the museum allow adults and educators to experience and learn the historic scripts from a renowned master calligrapher from 9:00 a.m. till 11:00 a.m. For more information email educationmia@qma.org.qa.

IAID Music Courses

Sat-Thurs: IAID. Offers classes in Classical/ Modern Piano, Classical/Acoustic Guitar, Electronic Keyboard and Western Vocals. All music courses incorporate Western notations and follow the London College of Music (LCM) syllabus. Examinations are held every six months at IAID by LCM examinees. Non-IAID students are welcome. For more information call 4432-0974 or 6671-0589.

FANAR Arabic Language Classes

Sun-Thurs: Spiral mosque building near Souq Waqif. This personalized spoken course will focus on communicative functions required in the day-to-day language such as: greetings and getting to know people, asking and answering essential questions, numbers, and other topics that help for a better understanding of the society. The course is written by transliteration: Arabic words written in English letters. For more information email courses@fanar.gov.qa.

ALRIWAQ DOHA

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

QMA Gallery

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

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

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

44 QH July/Aug 2013 sri.indd 44

6/27/13 9:55 AM

Community

s k c i P p o T â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s h t This Mon

VCUQatar Design Intensive Until July 18: This 3-week summer course for high school students offers an introduction to art and design through the exploration of painting, drawing, printing, mixed media, dying, computer graphics and photography, museum and gallery visits, along with presentations by practicing artists. For more information or to register visit www.qatar.vcu.edu.

Aspire Zone Foundation Hayyakum B Aspire

July/Aug: Set to kick off at the end of July this two-week Ramadan festival features nine different sports, as well as a collection of cultural, religious, and family-oriented activities designed to help all members of the community stay active throughout the Holy Month of Ramadan. For more information or to register visit www.aspirezone.qa/ramadan.

UCL Qatar

Talking Matters Toastmasters Club Wed July 10 & 24, Aug 14 & 28: Telugu Cultural Academy, behind Gulf Times. Improve your communication and leadership skills while building bonds between the local and expat communities. From 7:00 p.m. till 9:10 p.m. every second and fourth Wednesday of the month. For more information visit www.talkingmattersdoha.com.

ence rs: Where Sci 3D Encounitte age or. Part of Meets Her University, 2nd Flo

etown July/Aug: Georg UCL Qatar has roster of events, 13 20 UK tar Qa ing public access the ow all n itio hib ural ex unveiled its inaug anning technology of ancient sc to cutting-edge 3D time. Using 3D visualizations of first artifacts for the of Egyptian L Petrie Museum items from the UC ancient pieces that range from ruler. gree view of ancient Egyptian n offers a 360 de s, to a skull of an w.qataruk2013.com. on, the exhibitio mb nd co Lo ir in ha gy en olo od ae Arch it ww rved wo ne vessels and ca 5:00 p.m. For more information vis fragments of sto 0 a.m. till 8:0 m fro c bli pu Open to the

OUT om K C E H .c C ppening

atarha tion! www.qthe latest informa

QNCC

iEARN Conference and Youth Summit

July 1-6: The Qatar National Convention Centre will play host to the 20th iEARN conference and 17th Annual Youth Summit this summer. Bringing together 700 students and educator from around the world, the summit will focus on collective collaboration through the use of new technologies. For more information visit www.iearn2013.org or www.qatarconvention.com.

for

45 QH July/Aug 2013 sri.indd 45

6/27/13 9:55 AM

Community

A Deeper Meaning By Tasbih Amin

The call to prayer is a familiar sound ringing out over the city, but during Ramadan the significance of its message is heightened. QH brings you insight into Islamic tradition.

uslim worshipers go the extra mile to attain good deeds during the holy month of Ramadan. Fasting, praying and reading the Quran (they usually finish reading the whole book by the end of the month), are some of the most common extra practices performed during Ramadan. There are also additional night prayers during this holy month, and for this reason you hear a lot of adhan (call to prayer) more often during the night. In this article, I will walk you through the different prayers and their meaning, to give you a better understanding of the Islamic traditions during Ramadan. The calls for prayer are very unique and distinguishable in their meaning. It’s not only the signal of the end of one prayer and the beginning of another; it’s also a call reminding people of God Almighty and His grandiosity. It’s generally preferable for Muslims to pray together in mosques, to remind them of the importance of being part of a community. In Ramadan, it’s all about being one big community: praying together, fasting together and by the

end of the month, celebrating together. For this reason, the additional prayers (taraweeh and tahajod) must be performed in congregation not only to spark the feeling of a community but also for seeking closeness and forgiveness from God. Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) once said: “The Prophet said, ‘The prayer offered in congregation is twenty-five times more superior [in reward] to the prayer offered alone in one’s house or in a business center, because if one performs ablution and does it perfectly, and then proceeds to the mosque with the sole intention of praying, then for each step which he takes towards the mosque, Allah upgrades him a degree in reward and crosses out one sin till he enters the mosque.’” For this reason, many people are more motivated to pray together. One of the additional prayers performed during the holy month is taraweeh, and it’s heard throughout the whole month. This prayer is called out after isha’a, which is the last of the five prayers of the day. Many still question the number of raka’as (which is a single unit of prayer that includes standing, bowing and

46 QH July/Aug 2013 sri.indd 46

6/27/13 9:55 AM

kneeling), but most mosques stick with eight raka’as and they’re usually performed more slowly compared to the usual prayers in order to spread the sense of reverence amongst those in the mosque. At Masjid-ul-Haraam in Mecca, people perform twenty raka’as, and while it sounds too long and hard to perform, the feeling you get after is very fulfilling. I’ve had the honor of praying taraweeha multiple times in Mecca and nothing feels so rewarding as praying in such a holy place and in a time like Ramadan. The other prayer performed during Ramadan is tahajjudor, the ‘night prayer’, and it’s carried on during the last 10 days of Ramadan. Heard at midnight it also includes eight raka’as as taraweeh prayer. It’s obviously very hard to wake up at the middle of the night, perform ablution and go to the mosque; that’s why God commends all those who do, describing them as the righteous ones who will rightfully earn His forgiveness and will be greatly rewarded.

with those whom You have guided, pardon me along with those whom You have pardoned, be an ally to me along with those whom You are an ally to and bless for me that which You have bestowed.” There are many things that make Ramadan a very dear and special month for all Muslims, but the closeness and spirituality that sweeps over everyone during prayer has got to be the most beautiful and anticipated feeling deep in everybody’s heart. n

There is one last prayer that concludes the night called witr, which literally means, ‘solo’. It’s only one raka’a and is followed by a long and heartfelt supplication, which begins with asking God for guidance: “Oh Allah, guide me along

47 QH July/Aug 2013 sri.indd 47

6/27/13 9:55 AM

Community

Diamonds In The Rough By Ujwala Thirumurthy Principal photography by Jessie Palanca Additional images provided by Susie Kelt

We take an in-depth look at Vodafone’s Al Johara program, a success-building initiative that fosters businessdevelopment skills among Qatari women using methods that uphold the values of the local culture.

here are some things money can’t buy, such as confidence, determination and respect; this is even more so in the context of Qatari women whose socio-cultural and traditional values govern their way of life. But who knew that a ‘gem’ of an initiative by Vodafone was soon to change the lives of many such women while not once compromising on their family values. Al Johara, (johara meaning ‘jewel’ in Arabic) is a unique program aimed at creating an environment, where Qatari women can learn and grow with Vodafone using all the traditional and cultural norms that prevail in their society, says Susie Kelt, former head of the program. Ever since Al Johara was set up in 2010 Susie has worked on training Qatari women to become highly-skilled entrepreneurs.

“Many many families still live the traditional way, so it was a challenge to find women who could join Vodafone as direct sales entrepreneurs to sell our products within their communities, schools etc,” she recollects. “Quite naturally, building trust among the male members of the families was extremely crucial, and I’m happy we found a vibrant Qatari woman to help us communicate with the local community and gain their confidence to help me recruit.” So, what does a day in the life of Al Johara look like? Susie explains that there are no strict rules of work to be followed. “As this is a direct-sales venture it can be challenging, yet gives the women the flexibility to work the way that they think best within their family, education and community commitments, as they work to meet

their monthly targets. The Joharas work as and when. They juggle their large families, most attend school, plus manage a job with Vodafone, [and] of course putting their family as top priority at all times.” Three years later, is Susie happy with the results? You bet she is. “Johara women are tenacious and courageous because they have broken new ground. They each put down their individual goals when they started, and since then they’ve achieved every single one, and rewritten their goals to achieve greater results”, she says, beaming with pride. If that’s not commendable enough, for the Joharas themselves, this has been a life-changing experience. They’ve learned everything from stocks and cash reconciliation to interpersonal and selling skills and

48 QH July/Aug 2013 sri.indd 48

6/27/13 9:55 AM

Susie Kelt and her team at Vodafone have worked hard to build a lasting foundation for the Al Johara program

Susie mentors a group of Al Johara program members on business development skills and balancing entrepreneurship with tradition

Graduates of the Al Johara program proudly display their plaques of achievement

entrepreneurial skills. And yes, there are awards and incentives to motivate and boost their confidence, the most popular one being ‘JOYJohara Of The Year’! With this passionate group of Qatari women, Susie has no doubt that Al Johara will achieve bigger results in the years to come. And what makes it more special is the fact that its goals and purpose are in line with the 2030 Qatar National Vision, making it a laudable effort in female empowerment in a society that is so deeply rooted in its culture. “The intention was to always have a Qatari woman run the channel and I see these talented women as agents of change, role models for their families and communities. I see some of them as becoming more integrated in the company, while others will develop further goals and grow from strength to

strength, making enormous contributions to Qatar, towards the 2030 National Vision of His Highness The Emir,”says Susie, who is no less an awe-inspiring person herself. Of course, the success of the program is attributed to as much the Joharas as their family members, whose support has grown constantly because they see that the traditional and cultural values are never compromised for the sake of publicity. A fantastic success story, Al Johara is the perfect example of the traditional and modern co-existing, and what better reward than to have been selected by Cherie Blair, British barrister and wife of former Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, Tony Blair, as a case study on female mobile entrepreneurs in the retail sector, growing and empowering women.

Susie has big plans for the future. Having left Vodafone earlier this year, she is in the process of setting up her own consulting firm aptly called Irada Consulting, ‘irada’ meaning ‘we can do it’ or ‘let’s do it’ in Arabic. As I walk away inspired and impressed after a rendezvous with the amazing Susie Kelt, I’m reminded of this quote:”Be the kind of woman that makes other women want to be you.” And it’s not about appearances here. It’s about being confident of the choices you make, determined to achieve results out of those choices to make a difference in your life and the lives of others. May the Joharas shine on! n

As someone whose purpose is to change the world by helping people reach their highest potential,

49 QH July/Aug 2013 sri.indd 49

6/27/13 9:55 AM

Community

s t e e w T r a t Qa A group of Qatar residents have launched the country’s first rotation curation Twitter account @WeAreQatar. QH explains the premise.

n December 2011, Sweden (http://twitter.com/sweden) launched the first country rotation curation Twitter account, taking country branding to a whole new level. Since then, not just countries and cities, but organizations have launched their own rotation curation accounts as well. Each country or entity establishes guidelines and criteria, and volunteers nominate themselves as curators. Every week, a new curator tweets from the account, giving followers a unique viewpoint of the place or corporation from their perspective. For @WeAreQatar, Paula Crook (@KiwiPaula) is the inaugural curator. Paula, a civil engineer, has been in Qatar for about seven years, and will be leaving the country later this month. The seed of this idea is hers, as she hopes to keep in touch with the country she called home for seven years, even from afar. Khalifa Al Haroon, founder of the popular online community iLoveQatar.net (ILQ) and Vani Saraswathi, Managing Editor of JustHere.qa are the other founding members of this voluntary initiative. Khalifa is an entrepreneur who has effectively used social media to build bridges between the scattered communities in Qatar through ILQ. He says it is a big step forward for Qatar to join the league of countries with rotation curation accounts. “This has great potential for residents to be ambassadors of the country, and for both tourists and newcomers to get the essence of our community. It’s an opportunity for all the different nationalities in Qatar to represent the wider community. We Are Qatar.”n

CMY

To learn more about rotation curation, check out these two links: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rotation_Curation, and http://rotationcuration.com. Also, follow @WeAreQatar on Twitter and check their curators’ list on WeAreQatar.wordpress.com.

50 QH July/Aug 2013 sri.indd 50

6/27/13 9:56 AM

Ramadan-QH ad-english artwork.pdf 1 6/25/2013 2:21:13 PM

CMY

QH July/Aug 2013 sri.indd 51

6/27/13 9:56 AM

ubity Listings mm Clun Cods Ki RECOMMENDS

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

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

Doha Players

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

Egyptian Women’s Association

DOHA MUMS New Arrivals Coffee

Mon: Grand Heritage Hotel. Join the Doha Mums in welcoming prospective members to Doha. From 9:30 a.m. No RSVP necessary. For more information visit www.dohamums.com or email events@dohamums.com.

ONE OF A KIND LADIES OF HARLEY Saturday Ride

Sat 6: Harley-Davidson Shop. The Ladies of Harley meet the first Saturday of each month at 6:00 p.m. at the dealership on Salwa Road. Any female Harley-Davidson enthusiast, either rider or passenger, who enjoys socializing and becoming involved with like-minded women can become a member. For more information visit www.facebook.com/groups/76296760681/.

EVERY WEEK ART OF ABUNDANT LIVING Laughter Yoga Classes

Mon-Thurs: Al Ahmadani Centre, Najma St. off C-Ring Road. Laugh your worries out with the Art of Abundant Living team. Learn how ‘Laughter Yoga’ can be practiced as a physical and behavioural exercise to relax muscles, bring a smile and add confidence, hope and optimism to your everyday life. It’s a complete well-being workout, bringing significant changes in the lives of people from all over the world with physical and even mental disabilities. Price: QR 50 per class or QR 450 for a 10 session card. For more information call 5580-0395 or email info@artofabundantliving.com or visit their website www.artofabundantliving.com.

IAID Visual Arts

Sat-Thurs: IAID Hilal St. Al-Tadamon Signal, D-Ring Road. 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 visit www.iaidonline.org.

DOHA MUMS Expectant & New Mums Coffee

Thurs: Starbucks, City Center & Grand Heritage Hotel. Join other new mums and mums-to-be to talk all things baby! Doha Mums hosts a coffee meet from 10:00 a.m. till 12:00 p.m. The location varies, so check the Doha Mums website for dates and details. For more information visit www.dohamums.com or email events@dohamums.com.

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

TER S I G E R Esletter I5N w Oe WNeeL e n kly ing.com pen for th atarhap www.q

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

52 QH July/Aug 2013 sri.indd 52

6/27/13 9:56 AM

Kids Club

s k c i P p o T ’s h t This Mon Katara Garangao Festivities Mon 22 (July): One of the most well-loved children’s festivities is back at Katara: Garangao! Held on the 14th day of Ramadan, kids and their families can come to Katara starting at 7:00 p.m. and discover 20 doors of candy waiting for them! For more information visit www.katara.net.

Café Ceramique Summer Camp

Until Aug 7: The Mall. Let your kids get hands-on and crafty this summer with Café Ceramique’s four-day summer program. Watch as they learn the basics of simple pottery with their very own ceramic painting workshop, a make your own mocktail day and even a little chef’s day where they can learn to prepare simple snacks and serve them on their very own coaster made themselves. QR 110 per day, including lunch, from 11:00 a.m. till 2:00 p.m. For more information call 4467-1100 or email events.cafeceramique@gmail.com.

Doha Mums Children’s Library Weekly: With an annual fee of QR 100 to be part of the group enjoy access to story-time sessions, picture-board books for babies and some great kids novels for older readers. Staffed by Doha Mums and open three days a week visit www.dohamums.com to register for membership.

eums Qatar Moursit y Auth mp MIA Summer Ca

Museum Throughout July: The creative ta hos l wil Art mic Isla of r camp for and interactive summe join in can en ldr chi kids where age group with peers of a similar e and history to learn about cultur e between enc fer dif the , ing includ t century 21s a and y tur a 19th cen sque lamp. mo dia me creating a mixed a@qma.org.qa. rs of the galleries, and our tou ’ mm pet or car qa gic rg. a.o ‘ma ssini@qm calendar, or to register email nqu For more information

OUT om .c CHECaK ppening

atarh tion! www.qthe latest informa for

QH July/Aug 2013 sri.indd 53

Qatar MilestoneTraining Solutions Junior Leaders Summer Camp Aug 18-29: The Junior Leaders Summer Camp builds academic, social and leadership skills. Based on the 7 Habits of Highly Effective People® the certificate program produces results such as fewer discipline problems, higher academic achievement and problem-solving. For more information or to enroll call 5522-8139 or 6645-0131 or email b.development@qmts.net.

53 6/27/13 9:56 AM

Kids Club

Kitchen

Creations Photography by Srimani Welagedara

Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve partnered with The St. Regis Doha for you and your little ones to get creative in the kitchen. Every month Opal by Gordon Ramsay celebrity Head Chef Elias Gemayel will be sharing his cooking tips and easy-to-make recipes that kids will love!

Want more kids cooking fun? Flip to our It Happened section on page 130

54 QH July/Aug 2013 sri.indd 54

6/27/13 9:56 AM

“Beautiful food makes people happy” – Chef Elias Gemayel

Chef ’s Special Pancakes with zesty ricotta cheese and strawberries, with banana chips and pashmak (Arabic cotton candy).

ost of the time parents are hesitant to let their kids run free in the kitchen. They worry about the muck-ups, the mess and what the final outcome will taste like. We at QH offer up a different approach, believing that kids can cook as well as any adult given the right tools and the right guidance. (Whoever has seen an episode of Jr. Master Chef Australia can support our theory!) So, we’re proud to introduce for the first time a dedicated column to help teach youngsters how to prepare delicious recipes. But first, a bit about Chef Elias!

Recipe makes 10 to 15 small pancakes.

Food For Thought

1 small tsp of melted or soft butter

Growing up, Chef Elias loved Sundays, the day when the family would gather together and cook. He loves to use simple, fresh ingredients to create beautiful food that you would want to eat again and again. Currently the Head Chef at Opal by Gordon Ramsay, he has trained in Europe and the Middle East and has been a personal chef for VIP’s and celebrities. He appears weekly on JEEMTV where he connects with children and their families to inspire new ways of cooking traditional dishes and making healthy food choices. Passionate about sharing the joy of cooking fresh food, Chef Elias is committed to educating children in developing good eating habits and helping them foster a love and respect for fresh ingredients.

Celebrating Family Traditions This month, The St. Regis Doha launched their Family Traditions program with special activities to welcome young guests that go beyond expectations to create a prime destination for families. To celebrate Family Traditions, Chef Elias held a master class in Opal by Gordon Ramsay, where a few lucky Junior Chefs had a master-class in making delicious pizzas and mouthwatering pancakes. Now, you can try your hand at these simple yet wholesome pancakes at home with Chef Elias easy-to-follow recipe! n

Ingredients:

Toppings :

2 eggs

50 grams of ricotta cheese

365 ml of milk

20 grams banana chips (dry banana), chopped finely or crushed

270 grams of all-purpose flour 60 grams of sugar 22 grams of baking powder 1 pinch of salt

4 whole strawberries cut in half Zest of one lime Zest of one orange 2 leafs of fresh mint, finely chopped into decorative strips 10 grams of pashmak (cotton candy) 1 Tbsp of maple syrup

Preparation: Mix ingredients for pancakes together by lightly beating with a spoon or fork until smooth. Let the mixture rest while melting a little butter in a shallow frying pan. Place a ¼ cup of mixture into the hot pan and let cook until bubbles form. When bubbles appear on the surface, it’s time to turn and cook on the other side. Mix ricotta and banana chips together, then add zest of lime and zest of orange. Assembly: Place a cooked pancake on a plate and top with enough cotton candy to cover the entire surface. On top of the cotton candy put a tablespoon of the ricotta cheese mixture, followed by strawberries on top. Finally pour over the maple syrup and sprinkle with a little of the fresh finely-cut mint. Enjoy!

ENTER TO WIN

A FAMILY BRUNCH! Chef Elias loves food that’s cooked from the heart! Try his recipe, upload a photo of your pancakes to Instagram using the #chefeliaspancake hashtag and win a family brunch for up to 4 people in Opal by Gordon Ramsay.

55 QH July/Aug 2013 sri.indd 55

6/27/13 9:56 AM

Kids Club

School’s Out! By Charlie Sands Images courtesy of Regatta Sailing Academy & VCUQatar

Staying put in Qatar for the school holidays doesn’t need to be boring. QH has put together this no-nonsense guide to summer camps and activities, whether sporting, creative or academic, to help kids and parents get the most out of summer in Qatar.

Variety Is The Spice Of Life “Since arriving in the country twelve years ago I’ve noticed a large increase in the number of families choosing to stay in Qatar for the summer months. With very few activities available after the middle of July this year, we decided at Legacy Sports that it would be great idea to offer sports and activities camps for the entire holiday period. With this in mind, our professional sports coaches and teaching staff have helped to design our programs so that no two days or weeks are the same, and our aim is for children to learn new skills and make new friends in a fun, safe environment.” - David Moreland, Professional Sports Coach & GM of Legacy Sports Running throughout July and August, the Legacy Summer Mixed Sports Camp for children ages four to 13 offers a varied roster of sports, activities and fun at the Doha Rugby Club from 8:30 a.m. to 1:30p.m. on weekdays. The Legacy camp is tailored to meet the needs and abilities of your child, with five different age groups:

four to five, six to seven, eight to nine, 10 to 11 and 12 to 13 years. The camp is organized to include no fewer than five different activities each day. Attendees can book for individual days at QR 175 per day, or for the full week at QR 750, and get a 10% discount for siblings, a Legacy t-shirt and a certificate. All activities are run by qualified sports staff and arts and crafts staff, and there is a nurse on site at all times. Find out more by calling 5582-1375, email info@legacysportsandevents.com or visit legacysportsandevents.com.

Little Pearls Of Wisdom “In Qatar there is a very competitive private school environment so we are trying to help students get to the level they need to be or maintain their level over the summer break. It’s a very nurturing, encouraging and supportive environment with just two or three students per tutor. We start with assessment so we know exactly where the kids are and what they need.” – Linda Obel, Founder of Oxford Learning in Qatar

The Oxford Learning Summer School Program is designed to help students, ages four and up, with reading, writing, math, and exam preparation and runs between 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at two different locations: next to Dal Al Hamam park near Landmark Mall and on E-Ring Road in the Al-Thamama area. Prices vary according to the program and number of hours taken, with the minimum option being QR 4,800 for a three-hour per week course over eight weeks. Find out more by calling 4491-0777/4481-8434, email Qatar@oxfordlearning.com or visit www.oxfordlearning.com.

Ahoy There Captain! “Summer school is extremely popular as kids have so much fun while at the same time learning a new skill. Often they go on to sail through the RYA courses up to racing standard; a great initiation into leadership. We’ve been offering summer school for ten years now, [and] it’s part of our community service program, appealing to children across the board who perhaps otherwise wouldn’t get

56 QH July/Aug 2013 sri.indd 56

6/27/13 9:56 AM

the opportunity to learn to sail and learn about the environment.”- Christine Lawton of Regatta Sailing Academy The popular Regatta Sailing Academy based at the InterContinental Hotel (on the beach) is running four week-long afternoon sailing courses in July for youngsters ages six and above. The courses (June 30 to July 4, July 7 to 11, 14 to 18 and 21 to 25) run from 1:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. and will teach beginners to sail a dinghy or, for those who already sail, will teach them the next level to gain their Intermediate or Advance RYA Certificates. For teenage sailors there’s even the option to try your hand on a 30-foot yacht. Each week-long course costs QR 950 per child with a discount available for three or more children from the same family attending the same course. Find out more or register by calling 4442-4577/5550-7846, email regattasailing@yahoo.com or visit www.regattasailingacademy.com.

Art For All Ages “VCUQatar has been running summer programs for five years now very successfully. While the Art Fun class for very small children and the two Art Exploration classes are [meant to] provide some summer fun four to 12-year olds, Creative Discovery is an intense two week program for 13 to 15-year olds who are more serious about art, and Design Intensive for ages 16 and above is a full-on three-week art camp for high school seniors who are considering to make art and design their career path.” - Annette WendlingWilleke, VCUQatar VCUQatar’s summer courses offer youngsters the chance to splash, splodge and generally get creative in one of several week-long courses on offer. For five to nine-year olds the first course runs from July 1 to 5, and allows children to set their imaginations free and transform the gallery at VCU into a wonderland of colour, shapes and incredible creations in a whole variety of media with the grand finale being an exhibition party for family and friends to attend at the end of the week. The next two weeks, July 8 to 12 and 15 to 19, offer 10 to 12-year olds the chance to get creative using a variety of media and also to exhibit their work at the end of the course. Alongside this is a two week-long course for 13 to 15-year olds from July 8 to 19 called Creative Discovery. Students on this program will be introduced to the VCUQatar majors and learn through drawing, painting, digital media, creativity exercises, and group activities. This class includes a visit to an art museum and final exhibition open to family and friends. Finally a three week-long course from July 1 to 19 for 16 year-olds and above allows students to study drawing and creative skills development, media experimentation, several workshops and museum and gallery visits. Students will create an individual project related to Fashion, Interiors, Graphics, or Painting and Printmaking.

Hitting the high seas at the Regatta Sailing Academy

The program culminates with a final exhibition open to family and friends. Prices for the weeklong courses are QR 1,500, QR 2,750 for the two-week course, and QR 3,750 for the threeweek course. All courses run between 9:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. Find out more by calling 4402-0555 or email awendlingwil@qatar.vcu.edu.

From Rocket Launching To Ice Boat-Making “This is the third year we’ve run a Summer Holiday Multi-Activity Week and it has always been a great success. Parents can be safe in the knowledge that [their] children are happy, safe and taking part in constructive and enjoyable activities, run by UK-qualified teachers.” – Neil Hudson, Activity Week coordinator. Although Sherborne’s Summer School only runs until July 4, there’s the option to pay by the day, so if you’ve grabbed your copy of Qatar Happening at the start of the month, you might still have time to join in this multi-activity week at Sherborne School in the Al Rayyan area of Doha. Activities include den-building, cookery, football, making milkshakes, a range of sports, face painting, arts and crafts, bench ball, playground art, foot painting, parachute games, computer challenges, competition day, ultimate-Frisbee, sports hall games, ten-pin bowling, pizza-making, ice boat-making, dough model-making and rocket launching! There is a high staff-to-pupil ratio and the program, for four to 13 year-olds runs between 8:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m., and costs QR 300 per day. Find out more by calling 6654-0129 after 5:00 p.m. on school-days, or visit www.sherborneqataractivity.org.

All Summer-Long Fitness & Fun The My Gym summer camp began in June and runs until September 5, so for working Mums and Dads it offers summer-long entertainment

and learning for your kids. Held at the Children’s Fitness Center this summer camp was created to “to enhance physical development and a sense of individual success”. The camp is open to four to 12 year-olds, from 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. and costs QR 2,600 per month for five days a week, QR 2,600 per month for three days a week and QR 900 once a week with a QR 200 initial registration fee. A sibling discount also applies. Find out more by calling 4464-1429/4464-1540 or email info@mygym-qatar.com.

Storytelling To Screen-Printing “The program we’ve developed is sensitive to the values of Ramadan, and the idea of light being one of the major elements of this holy month. We wanted to emphasize on the creative approaches both younger and older people could take around these ideas.” - Mayssa Fattouh, Katara Art Center Artistic Director and Curator The Katara Art Center(KAC) summer program features no fewer than seven events throughout July and August aimed at engaging the whole community, adults and children, in the arts. On July 3 there’s a 3D printing workshop with designer Leslie Forehand. On July 15 a special Poetry and Storytelling night features the work of local poets and writers with a focus on Ramadan values. Meanwhile there’s a children’s Ramadan reading event takes place on July 22, organized by Maktaba Children’s Library project and aimed at four to eight year-olds in both English and Arabic. On July 25 a photography workshop called Passage of Time, explores indoor and outdoor light, changing over time and is aimed at beginner and amateur-level photographers. Moving into August there’s a family workshop called Meshrebieh and Light, where children (ages eight to 12) and their parents will develop a traditional ornate screen window. Finally on August 10 the KAC presents a Silent Classic Arabic film night with live Oud accompaniment. Find out more by calling 4408-0244 or visit www.facebook.com/kataraartcenter. n

57 QH July/Aug 2013 sri.indd 57

6/27/13 9:56 AM

Kids Club

Team

Spirit By Jacqueline Bodnar

here, which out and the summer’s s ol’ ho Sc ts? or sp m tea insight into the Is your child ready for lore. We give you some ga s ram og pr er mm d su dy to play fair. means kids camps an ow if your child is rea kn to w ho d an m tea of a benefits of being part

hat better time than summer to get your child involved in team sports? If you’re like most parents you aren’t quite sure when the right time is to get them started. There are a few things you should consider before signing your child up to be on a team this summer. Some of the issues you should consider when determining if they’re ready include what the benefits of team sports are, how to determine if they are ready to play and what sport to get them involved in.

Determining Readiness “Age six is usually considered an appropriate development age for children to begin participating in organized sports,” explains Dr. Carol Scott, an American family practice specialist at the University of Nevada, Reno Student Health Center. Until they reach that age it’s recommended that they engage in free play. However, just because your child turns six doesn’t automatically mean that they’re ready. There are some other areas to evaluate before making a decision about their readiness.

According to a report by the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), just because you introduce a child to a sport earlier doesn’t mean they have the motor skills to participate. Nor does it mean that those skills will develop at an earlier rate. Without the necessary motor skills, such as being able to kick or hit a ball, throwing and catching, a child will not be able to succeed at the sport. The AAP also points out that just because there is a coach on hand to explain the rules, that doesn’t mean that the child has the ability yet to understand them. When a child is placed in a sport before they are physically or mentally ready it can lead to frustration and feelings of failure. “Determining if a child is ready for team sports is usually relative to the demands of the sport,” says Dr. Scott. “More complicated sports may not be appropriate for younger children.”

What They Gain There are many ways that children benefit from participating in a team sport. Some of those benefits include:

•

Improving their coordination

•

Strength conditioning

•

Learning the concept of sportsmanship

•

Experiencing what it’s like to be a team

•

Being able to socialize with children their age

•

Learning structure and how to follow rules

•

The ability to work with other people to reach a common goal

•

Understand the concept of competition

•

Get hands on experience in learning about fairness

Many children love to watch organized team sports on television. Getting them involved in team sports gets them to turn the television off and be a part of creating that entertainment. The AAP noted in their report that children and pre-adolescents do benefit from team sports. They state that they provide an opportunity

58 QH July/Aug 2013 sri.indd 58

6/27/13 9:56 AM

for them to learn sports and team skills in an environment where risks of playing can potentially be controlled.

What To Play One of the most popular team sports to start children out on is soccer. While many children will get their first taste of team sports in this manner, there are some other great options, such as t-ball and basketball. The type of sport your child should sign up for will largely depend on their physical and mental readiness and their personal interest. Research the sports in your area that have teams for your child’s age group. Try to introduce your child to a variety of sports to so they can see what they like. Should you worry about your child starting a sport and quickly changing their mind only to want you to invest in another sport? Not at all says Dr. Eileen Kennedy-Moore, a psychologist and author of the book “What About Me? Twelve Ways to Get Your Parents’ Attention without Hitting Your Sister” (Parenting Press, 2005). “Children can’t know what they like until they try it, so some amount of interest switching is normal,” explains Dr. Kennedy-Moore. However, if your child wants to quit mid-season she suggests that you encourage them to finish it out.

“This emphasizes commitment and teamwork, gives the message that mastering skills takes time, effort and practice, and gives your child a chance to work through minor difficulties rather than simply avoiding them,” says Dr. KennedyMoore.

The Downside There are some less than desirable things that can come out of team sports. This happens when parents set too high of expectations for their child. Also when there is too much pressure to win rather than to have fun. Not being physically and mentally ready to play the game can also be harmful for kids. These negative factors can

be countered by making sure that your child is ready to play and that they aren’t pressured to believe that winning is the most important thing.

Where To Start Start small to give your child an opportunity to try out the sport. Look for a summer day-camp or a sport that meets once per week. This will give your child an opportunity to try out different sports without making a long term commitment or spending a lot of money. “If your child is truly miserable,” suggests Dr. Kennedy-Moore, “and conditions are unlikely to improve, it’s okay to take your child out of the activity early.”n

59 QH July/Aug 2013 sri.indd 59

6/27/13 9:56 AM

Bilal Penthouses - DPS - July - Aug. 2013.pdf

6/15/13

2:40 PM

CMY

QH July/Aug 2013 sri.indd 60

6/27/13 9:56 AM

QH July/Aug 2013 sri.indd 61

6/27/13 9:56 AM

Kids Club Wash your worries away at the Aqua Park!

Family

Fun Days Words and images by Charlie Sands

Outdoor options are limited by this time of year but, as QH discovers, the Aqua Park is one place where you’re guaranteed to have a laugh and stay cool on the slides and rides, and in the pools.

Directions Please… We set off down Salwa Road one sunny Sunday morning in late May to discover the delights of Aqua Park, Qatar’s first theme park. Our mission was simple - to keep the kids cool and entertained and of course, try some bloodpumping slides and rides for the adults among our party. Unfortunately without clear signage, we ended up miles past our destination and had to back-track a long way to reach the Aqua Park which is, needless to say, not well signed. If you’re looking for the Aqua Park, which is set back a couple of hundred metres from the road behind some trees, you could easily miss it (as we did). So take note as there’s no sign for it from Salwa International Road itself. You need to leave at Exit 29, go left over the highway and then straight on at the mini-roundabout, and keep driving until you reach your destination a few hundred metres further on. If you’ve been driving for more than 15 minutes out of Doha then you have definitely gone too far.

Stuff For All Ages Once inside the park and ready for action, you’ll find plenty to keep all levels of bravery and

Which slide would you

ability content. Starting with the tots, there’s a little slides and play pool called the African Village which is perfect for kids under five; the water is 30 centimetres deep so it’s pretty safe for the little ones to play in with supervision. Next up is the Children’s Activity pool - with a pirate theme, this has various slides and lots of water spouts and sprays, guaranteed to keep the kids soaked and ideal for the kids in the age four and up range. There’s even a large pirate head-shaped water container which fills up every few minutes and dunks water over unsuspecting children and their parents! Moving round there’s a wave pool which is a lot of fun for adults and kids alike, although a little scary perhaps for the younger children. Our kids enjoyed this pool most when the wave machine was taking a break and then they could run around and splash in the shallows to their hearts’ content. In the middle of the park, the lazy river lives up to its name – great for all the family, you simply pick up an inflatable ring, hop on it and float around lazily until you have done a complete circle or two. There’s also another swimming pool called the Lagoon for those who want to swim or enjoy a soft drink at the in-pool bar. The

choose first?

Lagoon also has a built-in jacuzzi, waterfalls and a big hose to sprinkle swimmers.

Get Your Kicks Here Now you’ve sampled the easy stuff for older children and adults the fun really begins when you climb up the various flights of steps to the different slides and chutes. There are basically three types of slide here: the multi-lane slide where you lie belly-down and head-first on a mat and race your friends to the bottom; the loop-the-loop kind of single person slides which all end in a single landing pool; then the double person slides where you and a friend sit in a double ring and after some spine-tingling fun, get spat out at the other end. Of these, the Boomerang spins you round a few bends before dropping you down a steep chute where you hurtle back up the other near vertical side before sliding back down and over a hump to the end. The Space Boat is equally if not more fun, and takes you round several bends before landing you in a giant bowl where you spin round until you get flushed down the final chute – like being flushed down a plug hole. A novel idea!

62 QH July/Aug 2013 sri.indd 62

6/27/13 9:56 AM

Floating along the

The view from the top

lazy river

is only for the brave!

Kids get a dunking at the pirate-themed Children’s Activity pool

What You Get For Your Money

Other Facilities, Staff And Tips

For QR 100 you get entry to the park and use of most, but not all, of the facilities, which is not clear when you enter. If you want to use the two double-person slides then you have to pay an extra QR 30 per person, by returning to the entrance and getting a wrist band. Worth mentioning too is that if you have come as a family with just two adults you would not be able to use the double person slides unless you partnered up with a stranger. I guess most families get round this by either coming as a bigger group of families, or by bringing a maid.

The park is adequately equipped with changing rooms, showers, toilets and has a choice of two eateries - one is café-style and the other is a fried chicken outlet. There is also a shop selling swimming gear and essentials. And there are lifeguards everywhere, watching over every piece of equipment, checking one person has left the slide before another person begins, which is a good sign. The best time to enjoy the water park is as soon as it opens, at 10:00 a.m., as the later in the day the busier it gets on weekends.

Also, while under three year-olds are free, four year-olds and up are full price, which does not seem fair as most children below the age of seven or eight cannot use the vast majority of the equipment – for example most of the slides and even some of the children’s slides are a nogo for younger tots. I think a QR 50 fee for under eight year-olds would be more fair.

The Score Is Out I have to say that Aqua Park itself is great; it’s family-friendly and well laid out and overall is a good day out. But it’s let down by the fees, which are not transparent on entry, and by charging an adult fee of QR 100 for younger children. Plus, it’s let down by the lack of clear signage in the first place – I wonder how many other people have missed the exit like we did. Overall score 6/10. n

About Aqua Park Timings: Sat-Wed, 10:00 a.m. till 8:00 p.m. Thurs & Fri, 10:00 a.m. till 10:00 p.m. Contact Info: Call 4490-5872, email aquaparkqa@gmail.com or visit www.facebook.com/aquapark.qa

63 QH July/Aug 2013 sri.indd 63

6/27/13 9:56 AM

Kids Club Listings RECOMMENDS

TER REGISINE r wslette Oe WNeeL kly 5 ne g.com in pen for th atarhap www.q

Atlantis The Palm Dubai Summer Kids Camps Wiggle & Giggle Camp Sun-Thurs: 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. July 7-11 , July 28-Aug 1 Aug 18-22 Age: 3 -7 years old Price: 5 day camp - AED 1,500 with lunch included

IAID Zumba

Sun-Thurs: Zumba is a dance fitness method based on salsa and other Latin dance moves, performed to Latin and world music beats and choreographed to allow kids to enjoy a fantastic workout. If you think you’d like an exhilarating class filled with good feelings and party-like fun, Zumba makes an excellent choice to support your fitness goals. For more information visit www.iaidonline.com.

EVERY WEEK GIRLS’ CREATIVITY CENTER Arts Club For Girls

Sun-Thurs: Located in Mamoura, this is an arts club for young girls and ladies, hosting exhibitions on a regular basis. For more information call 4468-8837.

IAID Western Vocals

Sun-Thurs: The course introduces the aspiring singers to classical music, musical theatre and popular music. Students enjoy a wide repertoire that also includes folk song, art song, sacred vocal music, opera, and oratorio, among others. Each session prepares students through vocal exercises, techniques, sight-reading, aural training and music appreciation at every session. For more information visit www.iaidonline.com.

ELITE SPORTS QATAR Progressive Junior Tennis

Sun-Thurs: A sport management company based in Qatar, Elite Sports Qatar is dedicated to the highest quality of sport instructional programs. With extensive experience and networks in the industry on and off-court, ESA seeks to provide world-class sports instruction to all ages and levels. For more information on course availability call 5566-4747.

YAMA YOGA STUDIOS MTW Mummy And Me Yoga

Sun & Tues: These classes are run by experienced yoga teachers who are also mums, so they understand the demands of small children. MTW mum’s can come along with their babies and toddlers and practice yoga while their children play alongside them in the studio (bring along some toys/books). There are some poses that the children can join in (by being held by their mum), but the classes are aimed at the mum’s. If the babies/toddlers need a feed or a nappy change during the class, the mum’s do this, and then rejoin the practice when the child is settled again. Timings between 10:30 a.m. and 11:45 a.m. Classes are QR 50, or a series of 10 classes (for any classes at the studio) are QR 450. As the classes are held within Garvey’s, there is also a small playground, a swimming pool and a restaurant which can all be used. For more information email Jodie Winnett at Jodie.Winnett@shell.com or call 5551-0913.

QATAR BOWLING CENTER Bowling For Kids

Sun-Thurs: QBC features 32 synthetic bowling lanes, automatic pin setters with Qubica automatic scoring, four bumper lanes for the children (for kids below 8 years old only please!), other sports facilities and a wide parking space. For more information visit www.qatarbowlingcenter.net.

STARFISH LANE Ballet For Kids

Aqua Camp

Sun-Thurs: 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. July 7- 11, July 28-Aug 1 Aug 18-22 Age: 8 -12 years old Price: 5 day camp - AED 2,500 with lunch included

ArtVenture Camp

Sun-Thurs: 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. July 14-18, Aug 4-8 Aug 25-29 Age: 3 -12 years old Price: 5 day camp - AED 1,750 with lunch included

Mini Master Chef Camp Sun-Thurs: 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. July 21-25, Aug 11-15 Sept 1-5 Age: 3 -12 years old Price: 5 day camp - AED 1,950 with lunch included

Summer Passes

Sun-Thurs:10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. July 1-Sept 5 3-day AED 650, 5-day AED 950, 10-day AED 1,750. Early drop-off: 8:00 a.m. drop off - AED 50 Late pick-up price: 6:00 p.m. pick-up - AED 50.

For more information please call +971 4426-1387 or email kidsclub@atlantisthepalm.com

Mon & Wed: Pre-registration is required for all courses. All classes are subject to minimum and maximum enrollment. For more information email Tove at: tove.lojander@gmail.com.

64 QH July/Aug 2013 sri.indd 64

6/27/13 1:47 PM

SHP - July-Aug. 2013.pdf

6/15/13

2:45 PM

CMY

QH July/Aug 2013 sri.indd 65

6/27/13 9:56 AM

Sheraton Doha

QH July/Aug 2013 sri.indd 66

6/27/13 9:56 AM

Food & Dining

s k c i P p o T ’s h t This Mon Kempinski Residences & Suites Iftar Menu July: Aroma. Experience the classic ambiance of Aroma as it transforms for the Holy Month of Ramadan. Savour the Iftar menu with a four-course selection of Arabic and European delicacies from our award-winning team of chefs. QR 160 per person including Ramadan juices. For more information call 4405-3325 or email restaurants.doha@kempinski.com or www.kempinski.com/doha.

Grand Hyatt Doha Thai Brunch

Fri 5 (July : Isaan. Join Isaan for one last brunch before it closes for the Holy Month of Ramadan. For an authentic and spicy weekend, book your table today. You’ll enjoy an exquisite brunch from all areas of Thailand and don’t worry about studying the Thai cuisine as their creative and innovative chefs will assist you in choosing from various live-cooking stations. From 12:30 noon till 4:00p.m., for QR 250 including soft drinks and QR 395 including special beverages. You can upgrade to a Moet brunch for QR 680. For more information call 4448-1250.

on The Ritz–Carlt

InterContinental Doha Seafood BBQ Night Fridays (Aug): Fish Market. Come and enjoy the best Seafood B.B.Q Dinner every Friday by the beachfront with live entertainment by the Jazzy Soul Band. Enjoy grilled fish and seafood freshly- prepared by the expert chefs, including liv- cooking stations. From 7:00 p.m. till midnight. For more information call 4484-4919 or 4484-4444.

Seafood Platter

food day iral’s Club. Tuesday is sea Tuesdays (Aug): Adm , you’re invited rina ma the g kin rloo at Admiral’s Club! Ove wns, fish d platter of lobster, pra to enjoy a fresh seafoo ple, from peo 2 to up ves n – ser and squid. QR 260/portio information call re mo For . p.m 00 10: 6:00 p.m. till m. p.kumar@ritzcarlton.co 4484-8663 or email dili

OUT om .c CHECaK ppening

atarh tion! www.qthe latest informa

The Four Seasons Eid Celebration Eid: Nusantao: Sea Kitchens. Celebrate a festive Eid brunch for memorable moments with family and friends in the inviting atmosphere of Nusantao: Sea Kitchens. Enjoy a feast of delectable dishes prepared to perfection in the most extensive buffet in town. QR 380 regular Eid Brunch and QR 460 Sparkling Eid Brunch. From 12:00 noon till 4:00 p.m. For more information call 4494-8888.

for

67 QH July/Aug 2013 sri.indd 67

6/27/13 9:56 AM

Food & Dining

Amar El-Din Along with the meal, I enjoy a cup of amar el-din or apricot juice. People serve this cold drink during Ramadan because it’s full of sugar, which is what everyone needs after a long day of fasting. It’s really easy to make and preferable to prepare during the day since it takes five hours for the apricot sheets to dissolve.

Traditional

Photo Credit: The Renaissance Doha City Center

Ingredients: 1 package of dry apricot (they come in pressed sheets and you can find them in grocery stores during Ramadan), 5 cups of boiling water Directions: Cut the apricot sheets into strips and add them to a bowl of water. Make sure the water completely covers the strips. Leave to dissolve for five hours, then refrigerate. Serve cold and enjoy! I hope you take pleasure in preparing these Middle Eastern dishes while immersing yourself in the exquisite flavours and great atmosphere of Ramadan!

Treats By Tasbih Amin

these Entertain friends and family at home this Ramadan with oured. -hon time the tasty recipes that call on the traditional and

amadan is a time of year where Muslims are taught discipline and self control by withholding themselves from the many pleasures of life like eating and drinking. A long day of fasting can be very exhausting and draining; that’s why eating nutritious meals during iftar (breaking fast) and sahour (before fasting) is essential for nourishing the body. In this article I’m sharing with you some of my all-time favourite Ramadan dishes.

68 QH July/Aug 2013 sri.indd 68

6/27/13 9:56 AM

Atayef

Harees

Sambousa

Even after a delightful and hefty meal, there’s always room for dessert! Among the many delicious Ramadan desserts, atayef comes on top. It’s a crescentshaped pancake-like dish, filled with ashta (cream) and drizzled with sugar syrup. The combination of the ashta’s sour taste and the sweetness of the syrup gives the atayef its heavenly signature flavour. The atayef pancakes are sold in stores everywhere during Ramadan, and it’s more convenient to get them ready made. Below are the ingredients of the ashta cream and the sugar syrup.

Although in Saudi Arabia all my life, the first time I tried harees was a couple of years ago when I first arrived in Doha. I remember I wasn’t excited about trying it, but it was a pleasant surprise when I had my first bite. Harees is a Middle Eastern dish, popular in the Gulf region, made of boiled wheat and meat (sometimes chicken). It’s also an all-time favourite Ramadan dish for many people.

Sambousa is my favorite Ramadan dish. I remember as a child watching adults break their fast with dates (which I didn’t like at the time), and pretending to break my fast with sambousa instead. Sambousa is more like the Arabic version of an egg roll; they’re usually triangular in shape and stuffed with either ground beef or cheese (my favourite).

Ingredients: Ashta Cream 6 cups of milk , ½ a cup of corn flour, 1 tbsp orange blossom water, 2 cups of icing sugar, 1 tbsp rosewater, ground pistachios Sugar Syrup 2 1/2 cups sugar, 1 1/2 cups water, 1 tsp orange blossom water, 1 tsp rose water, 1 tsp lemon juice Directions: For the ashta, boil five cups of milk in a saucepan and add sugar. Keep whisking the milk until the sugar dissolves. For the remaining cup of milk, add cornstarch until it dissolves and then add the mix to the milk and sugar in the saucepan. Stir until it thickens. Finally, add the rose and orange blossom water, whisk for a while, and then remove from heat. Now that you’re done with your ashta, what remains is the syrup. Add water and sugar to a saucepan over medium heat. Stir until the sugar dissolves and the water boils, and then add the lemon juice. Leave for 10 minutes until the syrup thickens, then add both the orange blossom water and the rosewater. Stir for a minute or two and remove from heat. Voila! You’re done with the cooking, and what’s left is putting everything together. For each pancake, add a little ashta cream and close it on one side. It should look like a crescent and open from the top. Sprinkle the ground pistachios on the atayef and add the sugar syrup.

Ingredients: 1kg habb harees (whole wheat), 1kg beef/chicken, Melted butter, 1/2-tsp ground, cinnamon (upon preference), Salt, Black pepper Directions: Start by soaking the whole wheat in a large pot of water, leaving it overnight. Drain the wheat and add 2 litres of water, boiling it until it softens, (make sure to skim off any foam gathered on the surface.) While the wheat is boiling, start working with the beef/chicken. Soak it in salted water and rinse it when the wheat is ready. Place the meat and the wheat in a big pot, adding the salt and pepper and enough water to cover about 2 inches above the mix of wheat and meat. Cover the pot with the lid and wait until it boils. Reduce the stove to a very low temperature and cook for three to three and a half hours. Check on the harees every 10 minutes and stir occasionally.

Ingredients: Egg roll wrappers (cut into rectangles), 1 pound lean ground beef, 1/2 chopped carrot, 1/2 chopped onion,1 minced garlic clove, 1 tbsp all-purpose flour, 1 tbsp water, 2 cups vegetable oil, salt, pepper Directions: In a large pan, fry the ground beef over medium heat until it changes colour. Add the chopped onion, garlic and carrot. Mix them well and add the spices. Now it’s time for the hardest part (at least to me), which is folding the sambousa in triangular shapes. Put a teaspoon of the filling in the top front corner of one of the egg roll wrappers. Starting from the right front corner, fold over to the left, starting the triangle shape. Continue back and forth (making a triangular shape) until there is no more wrappers. Seal the wrappers closed with the flour and water mixture. Continue this process until all of the ingredients are used. Using oil to taste, fry the triangular packages until crisp. n

When the wheat liquefies remove from the heat and leave it to cool for a while. To smooth it out, whip the mix of meat and wheat together until it becomes one with a paste-like texture. Make sure to even out any meat lumps; the harees have to be as consolidated as possible. Now it’s time to prepare the seasoning. Melt some butter or ghee in a pan and add some salt, pepper, and cinnamon (if you want) and mix them all together on medium heat. Pour the seasoning on the harees and your dish is ready to serve!

69 QH July/Aug 2013 sri.indd 69

6/27/13 9:56 AM

Food & Dining

A Cupcake A Day By Ashlee Starratt Photography by Jessie Palanca

keep the sugar Sweet-tooth’s rejoice! Red Velvet Cupcakery at Katara has your one a day to cravings away. We bite into the fluffy goodness.

t’s hard not to be happy when you walk into Katara’s Red Velvet Cupcakery. Its retro malt shoppe-feel and bright décor are instant endorphin boosters and the smell wafting from the ovens is enough to make you keel over. We’re here today to sample the goods – an admittedly tough job, but someone’s got to do it. As we sit down to chat with Assistant Manager Rachel Chikhaoui and Head Baker Lindsay Walker, we learn a few cool things about Red Velvet that we were previously unaware of. An American brand hailing from Washington D.C., the outlet at Katara is their first and only international location and their first sit-down café. Lindsay hails from the D.C. bakery and she tells me that once she heard about the franchise opening in Doha she jumped at the chance to make the move and the rest is history! Differing from its U.S. counterpart, which is a stand-up, take-your-order-to-go hot-spot, the outlet at Katara caters to Qatar’s penchant for sweetness and indulgence in a less hectic atmosphere. Though it’s a bit too hot right now to sit outside, Red Velvet has a spacious outdoor terrace and courtyard area, decked out with its hallmark cupcake-inspired chairs. Assistant Manager Rachel tells us it’s the prime location for their Decorate Your Own Cupcake workshops for kids which are a big hit with the birthday crowds.

Red Velvet has recently expanded its drinks menu to include fresh, cold beverages such as milkshakes, fresh juices and iced coffees. I order a strawberry juice as we wait for the sugar overload that’s coming. The airy, bright ambiance is invigorating and the fact that the place also has free Wi-Fi is the cherry on top. Customers can come, order an espresso or a juice and sit back to do some work or surf the net.

The cupcake range on offer at Red Velvet is also constantly changing with a new flavour of the week rotating through the display case. (Keep an eye out for their special pistachio and honey buttercream cupcake for Ramadan!) We try a selection of their tried and true staples including the Cookies ‘n Cream (cookie morsels blended into chocolate buttermilk cake), the classic Red Velvet (cream cheese frosting, no introduction needed!), the Devil’s

their special Keep an eye out for buttercream pistachio and honey an! cupcake for Ramad

Their namesake classic Red Velvet cupcake

70 QH July/Aug 2013 sri.indd 70

6/27/13 9:57 AM

Head baker Lindsay Walker decorates a fresh batch The Red Velvet team in the kitchen

About Red Velvet Cupcakery Location: Bldg 24, Katara Cultural Village Timings: Daily from 9:00 a.m. till 12:00 midnight Ramadan Hours: Daily from 6:00 p.m. till 12:00 midnight Food (chocolate overload with buttermilk cake and bittersweet Valrohna chocolate ganache garnished with gold leaf) and so many more. My head is already buzzing from the saccharine rush. They even have a Black Velvet which is a gluten-free chocolate concoction that’s so good you don’t even realize it’s flourless! We also try the Summertime, which is a light, airy lemon-y breeze topped with shredded coconut – it’s one of my faves, second only to their Peanut Butter Cup, which is pretty much the only thing I order when I come here. As we’re mopping up the crumbs, Chef Lindsay has a surprise for us; Red Velvet has recently introduced homemade ice cream sandwiches to their menu – a sweet cooldown that’s just the ticket for summer.

They also do customized, made-to-order cupcakes which will run you about QR 25-30 per cupcake depending on the complexity of the design and they offer some fun treats for the kids with their Decorate Your Own Cupcake workshops which cost QR 60 per child. Summer promotions also include buy one of their new (and delicious!) ice cream sandwiches and receive a small bottle of water for free – the perfect deal to cool down and hydrate yourself over the hot months ahead. This won’t be our last stop at Red Velvet, but our next trip will have to wait until after we’ve hit the gym. But trust us, every bite is worth it. n

Average Price: QR 18 per cupcake or ice cream sandwich Contact Info: Call 4408-0700/0701 or visit www.redvelvetdoha.com

Ramadan Kareem

Katara will bustling this July as their lavish Ramadan tent sets up once more on the terrace of Sukar Pasha. There will be an Iftar set menu with a wide variety of cold starters followed by soup and a hot starter and traditional Ramadan juices. Main course will be a choice of chicken, beef or lamb with a delicious dessert to end the meal. There will also be a Sohour a la carte menu, priced individually and inclusive of lamb tenderloin, chicken testi kebab, stuffed quail, grilled vegetables and halloumi salad, Turkish doner and a sweet ghullach and ice cream station. For group Iftar bookings there will also be the option of a buffet menu.

There are two options to choose from: a Red Velvet cookie with chocolate or vanilla ice cream or a chocolate chip cookie with same creamy options. We sample both and I can’t even finish a third of mine I’m so full, but needless to say my eyes are bigger than my stomach and they both taste amazing – chunky, chewy, creamy and satisfying.

About The Katara Ramadan Tent

It’s fair to say that Red Velvet will always be one of the hopping spots at Katara among its many food and dining outlets. But if you can’t get out to the Cultural Village to satisfy your craving, fret not – Red Velvet offers free delivery around Doha for orders of 100 cupcakes or more.

Location: The terrace at Sukar Pasha, Bldg 31, Katara

So if you have a birthday party or other festive event and are looking for a manageable alternative to a massive cake, they’re a good choice.

Sohour - Sun-Wed, 8:30 p.m. till 1:30 a.m. Thurs-Sat, 8:30 p.m. till 2:00 a.m.

Ramadan Timings: Iftar - Sun-Wed, 6:30 p.m. till 8:30 p.m. Thurs-Sat, 6:30 p.m. till 8:30 p.m.

Reservations: Call 4408-2000 The fluffy, coconut-topped Summertime cupcake

71 QH July/Aug 2013 sri.indd 71

6/27/13 9:57 AM

Food & Dining

Word of Mouth Photography by Sanjaya Munindradasa

Ago hl Pieter poses with Contest winner Dorme Gok Chef de Cuisine Emre

This column is part of a monthly contest where we send one of our readers to experience a meal at a restaurant. It’s our way of giving the community a voice in our pages.This month Dormehl Pieter tested the menu at Agora, the contemporary Turkish restaurant at The Grand Heritage Hotel. Here is his review: QH: What did you order?

QH: Were the prices reasonable?

QH: Least favourite thing about the restaurant?

DP: Appetizers:

DP: Yes, prices were reasonable for the quality of the food, worth every riyal.

DP: Nothing, absolutely no complaints.

•

Gavurdagi Salatasi (tomato, cucumber, walnut and chili flakes salad, rocket leaves and pomegranate dressing) QR 50

•

Lahmacun (spicy minced meat on flatbread with tomato and rocket leaves) QR 55

•

Arnavut Cigeri (fried beef liver, served with sumac, onion and parsley salad) QR 75

•

Cold Mezze Sampler (stuffed vine leaves, hummus, beans pilaki, acili ezme, haydari, patlican salatasi) QR 110

•

Izgara Hellim Peyniri (grilled halloumi cheese with rocket salad) QR 60

Main Course:

•

Deniz Levregi (stewed wild sea bass, capers and lemon sauce with fresh herbs) QR 185

•

Kuzu Incik (braised lamb shank in its own jus with warm eggplant) QR 155

•

Karides Izgara (char-grilled prawns with warm eggplant salad) QR 157

Dessert:

•

Sutlac (gum mastic-flavoured rice pudding with roasted hazelnut) QR 40

•

Kaymakli Kunefe (crispy kadaif dough with cheese filling and clotted cream) QR 55

Drinks:

•

Vanilla milkshake, QR 35

•

Cilek Aromasi (Turkish mocktail containing fresh strawberries and mint) QR 30

•

Evian 330ml (still) QR 15

•

Cappuccino QR 28

72 QH July/Aug 2013 sri.indd 72

QH: Describe the ambiance. DP: There is a good ambiance. The restaurant is stylish with Turkish décor, dimmed lighting and soft Turkish music playing in the background. We spent two hours in the restaurant and were very satisfied with the time spent there. QH: Describe the quality of the food. DP: The food was of high quality and delicious. A lot of thought and effort obviously goes into the cuisine and it shows. The presentation of all the dishes was very good. The Gavurdagi Salatasi was excellent and the Kuzu Incik lamb shank cooks for ten hours and was very tender. QH: Describe the quality of the service. DP: Fantastic service. Friendly staff and very helpful, they made our experience very pleasant. The chef was happy to recommend some of his signature dishes. The staff was attentive and cleared plates without having to be asked. Staff kept checking if we were happy and satisfied with our food and drinks, but not in an annoying kind of way. The manager of the restaurant was also very friendly, walking through the tables and interacting with the guests. QH: Would you go back? Why/why not? DP: Yes, absolutely. Food, décor and atmosphere made it feel like we were in Turkey. We enjoyed the Turkish experience. There is a good food selection and everything we tried on the menu was delicious. The service was outstanding. I would definitely recommend this restaurant. QH: Favourite thing about the restaurant? DP: The service and big spaces between the tables that allow some privacy.

QH: Was there a special touch or flair to the experience? DP: Yes, hot towels to clean our hands when we arrived at the table and a small welcoming drink. During dessert, the chef brought us a new dessert to try out that is not even on the menu yet. [We] loved the iPad menu, easy to use with good pictures of all the dishes and explanations of all the ingredients. The menu also clearly showed if any of the dishes contained nuts, dairy, shellfish or were vegetarian. At the end of our experience, we were presented with a complimentary gift of Turkish Delight sweets.

CMY

QH: Could the overall experience be improved? If so, how? DP: No, I would not change a thing. Everything was fantastic. n

Karides Izgara, juicy spiced prawns

Editor’s Note:

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

6/27/13 9:57 AM

QH-Ramadan ad-eng-aw.pdf

6/18/13

6:45 PM

CMY

QH July/Aug 2013 sri.indd 73

6/27/13 9:57 AM

Food & Dining

Global Award Of Excellence For Al Mourjan By Ashlee Starratt Images courtesy of Al Mourjan Restaurant

An iconic staple of the Corniche, Al Mourjan has long been a renowned culinary destination for locals and visitors to Doha. Now, with two recent international awards under its belt, the restaurant that re-defined the way Lebanese food should be is now in a class of its own. It’s a sunny afternoon at Al Mourjan with the light streaming through the windows in the dining room atrium, diners quietly enjoying a late lunch and some shisha. Owner Mohamed Al Sadek’s demeanour is equally sunny on this day, having just returned from the Business Initiatives Direction’s 2013 International Quality Summit of Excellence awards in New York City where Al Mourjan took home top billing. It’s an honour, the stature of which is not lost on the astute business owner. “These awards are for players who have changed things in their countries,” says Al Sadek. “We were very surprised, we had no idea who these people were and were very surprised to receive the nomination. Why us? They only deal with big players, why us?” Why indeed. With its commitment to superior food quality and service, Al Mourjan has set the bar high in the region and now its efforts are being lauded by the international community. “We’ve been open for five years with a lot of hard work,” explains Al Sadek. “We established ourselves really well since we started five years ago and we’ve done our homework, we’ve done our research and we’ve developed ourselves to a level that has made us an institution in the country and the region. We’re very proud that after so much hard work we were able to reach that international level.” Last month the restaurant also won a prestigious TripAdvisor Award of Excellence. Based on a public system of voting and feedback, Al Mourjan consistently garnered rave reviews. Whether it was for its authentic ambiance, delicious fresh ingredients or food presentation, the Lebanese hotspot continued to come out on top in all categories of customer experience. For Mohamed Al Sadek, the accolades are simply motivation to keep going strong, doing what they do best and always seeking to outdo themselves. “In any business, the moment that you think you have reached where you want to go and you stop, is the moment when you start going backwards,” he says. “My belief and my business philosophy is that you need to keep developing and we will keep on developing and never stop.” At the end of the day Al Sadek credits his staff for the part they played in elevating the Al Mourjan brand to its award-winning level. “Quality comes from in my belief, one of the most important elements in any organization – the human assets,” he says. “I told them [in his awards speech] excellent results come only from excellent people. A company must invest and keep on investing in its human assets. Once you develop your human assets to a level of excellence, then and only then will you get excellent results.” As I dig into Al Mourjan’s famous hummus with a side of crackling-hot halloumi, I ask Mohamed what went through his mind when he got the letter in the mail from New York stating that he had won. “It was incredible. I was like ‘WOW! What is this?!’,” he says with a big smile. “For us, globally we are small, but regionally and locally we are very big. But it’s awesome, really awesome. It feels like your hard work has paid off. It gives you lots of energy to keep going further and to achieve more and more.”

Owner Mohamed Al Sadek holds the award bestowed to Al Mourjan at the 2013 International Quality Summit of Excellence in NewYork City.

With two other international award nominations from Paris and Switzerland also on the horizon, it’s safe to say that for Al Mourjan this is only the beginning. n

74 QH July/Aug 2013 sri.indd 74

6/27/13 9:57 AM

QH July/Aug 2013 sri.indd 75

6/27/13 9:57 AM

Food & Dining

Rosewater Turkish Delight

These sugar-coated cubes of t sweetness make the perfect trea ! our for Iftar or Soh

Ingredients: 4 cups sugar

A Hint Of Rose

1 cup cornflour

By Gerald Tan Photography by Jessie Palanca

1 lemon, zested and juiced

Impress your friends and family this Ramadan with our fool-proof recipe for rosewater Turkish Delight. Simple, sweet and perfect for the season!

ong before cookbooks taught us how to poach berries en papillote and highresolution photography captured the lustre of caramel glistening over a coffeecake, food still managed to find its way onto the page. Literature is jam-packed with delicious scenes: it inspires desire when Ishmael from Moby Dick inhales a hearty clam chowder before setting out to sea; curiosity at a mad tea party Alice finds in Wonderland; even pity as Oliver Twist asks for more gruel.

The first time I read The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe, I couldn’t get over the chapter in which the White Witch bribes Edmund with Turkish Delight. It’s the character’s favourite thing to eat, to the point he’ll betray his siblings for it. He just can’t stop thinking about Turkish delight, which made me think: what was this beatific creation? It would be many years before I actually had my first taste. The chewy candy is bitingly sweet yet bizarrely addictive. As you gnaw away, little bits will probably get stuck in between your teeth. You may get powdered sugar all over your lips. Your head says “No more” but your hands reach out for another. These days, Turkish Delight is available in a variety of flavours and colours, featuring fillings such as dried fruits and nuts. But in its most traditional form, the treat is simply made of sugar, water, gelatine, thickener and rosewater.

Rosewater is what I consider a divisive larder ingredient: you either adore or abhor. Its sweet, unmistakable scent has been employed for centuries throughout this region. (And the distillation process to extract the flavour from rose petals was in fact invented by the Persians.) You’ve not really lived in the Middle East until you’ve had rose ice cream is what I think. But a word of caution. A little rosewater goes a long way. You need mere teaspoons to flavour an entire batch of confectionary. This is particularly true if it’s made of pure rose oil: one drop of the precious distillate is extracted from hundreds of rose petals. As we celebrate Ramadan and the forthcoming Eid, I was mulling over a dessert that would make an excellent seasonal gift. Turkish Delight finally jumped out, not just because of its near Eastern roots, but also because of how attractive it looks all dusted with icing sugar and packed snugly in a box. The only specialty item I would recommend using is a sugar thermometer. It’s the most reliable implement for accurate readings of boiling syrup. I also like adding the zest of a lemon to cut through some of the sweetness. The high content of sugar helps preserve the candy for many weeks, but its yummy factor means it probably won’t last that long anyway. n

4 cups water, divided equally 20 grams gelatine powder 1 ½ Tbps rosewater Red food colouring 1 cup icing sugar Instructions: Line a shallow cake pan with greaseproof paper. Cook sugar with 2 cups of water over medium heat until the syrup boils and reaches a soft ball stage (240 degrees Fahrenheit on a sugar thermometer), after about 25 minutes. In a separate pan, whisk together gelatine and cornflour, then gradually add in the remaining 2 cups of water. Boil together until mixture thickens. Remove from heat; stir in the lemon zest and lemon juice. Whisk in the sugar syrup into the cornflour paste to produce a smooth mixture. Boil on low heat again for roughly 45 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent burning at the base. It’s done when the sugar thermometer reaches thread stage, 230 degrees Fahrenheit. Remove from heat. Stir in rosewater and two drops of food colouring to achieve a mild pink. Pour into prepared pan and leave to cool for at least 5 hours. Turn the Turkish Delights onto a tray filled with icing sugar. Cut into cubes and roll each piece in sugar.

Comments, feedback, tips or Madama Farfalle’s not-so-secret recipes gladly welcome. Do share how the Turkish Delights turn out. I’m on Twitter @GeraldoTan.

76 QH July/Aug 2013 sri.indd 76

6/27/13 9:57 AM

QH July/Aug 2013 sri.indd 77

6/27/13 9:57 AM

Ramadan Kareem Food & Dining

Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar; a time when Muslims all over the world fast during from dawn till sunset to - among other religious beliefs -cleanse their hearts and souls. Ramadan lasts between 29 to 30 days depending on the sightings of the crescent moon. Every day during the Holy Month worshipers are allowed to break their fast after sunset and enjoy a meal with family and loved ones. QH proudly presents a list of the best Ramadan Tents in Doha. Ramadan tents have become hugely popular in Qatar. Hotels and restaurants all over the country work for months to build opulent tents and create special dishes to celebrate the festivity. Some tents in five-star hotels are so majestic they can easily resemble palaces worthy of kings. These communal, family-oriented spaces set the right atmosphere for Muslims to break their fast, and for non- Muslims to join in the celebration of the most sacred month in the Islamic calendar.

s t n e T n a d a m a R Aspire Katara Hospitality Sukar Pasha Ottoman Lounge Ramadan Tent Enjoy an Iftar Set Menu with wide varieties of cold starters served on the table, followed by a soup and hot starter. The main course is a choice of chicken, beef or lamb. A special dessert concludes the highlight and the entire package is inclusive of Ramadan juices. Sohour is served with a speciallycreated a la carte menu that includes grilled vegetables and halloumi salad, stuffed quail, lamb tenderloin, chicken testi kebab, Turkish doner, ghullach. An Ice Cream station is available. Ramadan Timings: Weekdays (Sunâ&#x20AC;&#x201C; Wed) Iftar: 6:30 p.m. till 8:30 p.m. Sohour: 8:30 p.m. till 1:30 a.m. Weekends (Thurs â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Sat) Iftar: 6:30 p.m. till 8:30 p.m. Sohour: 8:30 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. For more information call 4408-2000.

78 QH July/Aug 2013 sri.indd 78

6/27/13 9:57 AM

The Crowne Plaza Doha – The Business Park

Iftar & Sohour At Aramede

The Crowne Plaza Hotel – The Business Park is turning Aramede into a big Ramadan celebration. Break your fast with their oud band duo and Darwich Dancers every night. QR 170, from 6:00 a.m. till 11:00 p.m. Aramede will be serving breakfast and lunch during Ramadan. For more information call 4408-7777.

Hilton Doha

The Four Seasons

Ramadan Tent At Al Mirqab Ballroom A traditional Ramadan experience made memorable by The Four Seasons Hotel’s brigade of international chefs. The Al Mirqab ballroom has been transformed to create an ambiance of Arabic decadence. This year, Ramadan promises to be a festive family affair, whether gathering family and friends to break their fast, or meeting for an elegant Sohour evening. The extensive Ramadan buffet will feature exceptional international, local and traditional dishes as well as freshly-baked breads, grilled meats and live cooking stations which will have diners spoiled for choice. Iftar: Timing: From sunset till 8:00 p.m. Price: QR 220 Sohour: Timing: From 9:00 p.m. till 1:00 a.m. Price: QR 270 Shisha: QR 85 For reservations call 4494-8888.

Grand Heritage

Iftar At Hakawi Tent Book your Iftar at Hakawi tent and enjoy an ambient Ramadan setting with a feast fit for royalty. The majestic spread will include hot and cold appetizers and mezzeh, live cooking stations, fourteen rotating main dishes daily, desserts and specialty Ramadan drinks to quench your thirst. Timings: Sunset till 8:00 p.m. Price: QR 200 per person including Ramadan beverages For reservations call 4423-3333

Souhour At Hakawi Tent

Enjoy Ramadan evenings at Hakawi tent accompanied with an authentic Arabian spread while you puff on your favourite flavored shisha. Live cooking stations, hot and cold mezzeh and fourteen rotating main dishes daily, desserts and specialty Ramadan drinks to quench your thirst are on offer. An oud player along with a band will enchant you through the night. Timings: From 9:00 p.m. till 1:00 a.m. Price: QR 270 per person including Ramadan beverages For reservations call 4423-3333

Ramadan Iftar & Sohour Join Grand Heritage Doha for delectable delicacies from the Iftar & Sohour buffets in the Oriental Ramadan tent setting, offering all Arabic specialties with live cooking stations of Ouzi, Saj and Shawarma. Iftar and Sohour buffet, QR 190 per person including Ramadan beverages. 50% off for children 6-12 years old, children under age five dine free. Special rates for groups of over 10 people. Timings: Iftar: From sunset till 9:00 p.m. Sohour: From 9:30p.m. till 1:00a.m., with live entertainment. For reservations call 4445-5555

79 QH July/Aug 2013 sri.indd 79

6/27/13 9:57 AM

Food & Dining The Grand Hyatt

Ramadanak Located in the heart of the hotel’s Arabian Palace, Ramadanak is back this year with the flair of Andalusia, offering the ultimate destination for an unforgettable Ramadan experience. Enjoy traditional lavish Arabic buffets for Iftar and Sohour. In addition witness the transformation of Biscotti into a hampers retail shop during the holy month of Ramadan. Choose whichever city you prefer from their specially-customized menu and get in touch with its culture for prices starting from QR 300. Iftar: Timing: From sunset till 8:00p.m. Price: QR 250 Sohour: Timing: From 8:30 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. Price: QR 200 For reservations call 4448-1234.

La Cigale

The Spirit of Ramadan Celebrate the spirit of togetherness around the extravagant Sohour buffet at La Cigale’s Ramadan Tent. La Cigale Ramadan Tent is considered a center of attraction in Doha with its exclusive ambiance around the spangled indoor swimming pool. Delight amid live, soft, traditional Arabic entertainment with a wide variety of traditional Arabic dishes, international favourites and mesmerizing sweets. Don’t miss the fascinating taste of flavoursome shishas. Timings: From 9:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. Price: QR 250 per person inclusive of mineral water, Ramadan juices and selected soft drinks.

Sheraton Doha

Radisson Blu

Ramadan Nights This year celebrate the holy month of Ramadan with the Radisson Blu Hotel. The Radisson Blu has created a traditional Arabic tent offering a selection of Ramadan favourites. Iftar will be served in Hyde Park Coffee Shop where guests can choose from an array of special Ramadan dishes and a huge selection of desserts and sweets, all specially prepared by a team of renowned Arabic chefs. Ramadan tent timings are from 6:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m., prices as per the menu. They will also have a special brunch from 12:00 p.m. till 3:00 p.m. in Ruby Wu’s/Bombay Balti on the first day of Eid. Prices are QR 160 per person or QR 210 per person inclusive of sparkling.

Iftar At Al Hubara Restaurant Enjoy a gourmet Iftar buffet featuring Oriental and international Ramadan specialties, from traditional Arabic dishes to succulent Oriental sweets. Timing: From sunset till 8:00 p.m. Price: QR 210 per person and QR 110 per child below 12 years old, children below age six enjoy a complimentary meal. For reservations call 4485-4071 or email F&Breservations.Doha@sheraton.com

80 QH July/Aug 2013 sri.indd 80

6/27/13 9:57 AM

The Diplomatic Club

The St. Regis Doha

Al Sayyad Ramadan Tent

Ramadan Tent

A favourite among locals and expats alike, Al Sayyad is The Diplomatic Club’s signature restaurant where you can enjoy the finest traditional Middle Eastern seafood and stunning views over the Doha skyline and the Pearl-Qatar. The perfect place to truly experience the rich Middle Eastern cuisine and atmosphere, during Ramadan the Al Sayyad Tent will be offering daily Iftars and Sohours. Al Sayyad will be also featuring a qanoun player which will continue till after Ramadan in Al Sayyad and Le Grill restaurant.

Create a memorable Ramadan experience with your family and friends at Qatar’s finest address at the luxurious Ramadan tent with the most delicious Ramadan dishes inspired by Middle Eastern and Qatari traditions.

Daily Iftar: QR 190 Daily Sohour: A La Carte Menu

Sohour: Timing: From 9:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. Price: QR 270 Private Cabana: With a private butler, a flat-screen television and a large selection of mezze upon arrival, private cabanas offer up to 10 guests a more private Iftar or Sohour experience for QR 3,000.

For corporate and big events the restaurant offers either the Al Sayyad tent, the banquet halls or the Royal tent for the following prices: Iftar Buffet: QR 190 Sohour Buffet: QR 190 Sohour Set Menu 1: QR 185 Sohour Set Menu 2: QR 195

Iftar: Timings: From sunset till 7:30 p.m. Price: QR 230

For reservations call 444-60106 or email diningreservations@stregis.com.

Oryx Rotana Ramadan Promotions Sky Lounge Raise a teacup to Morocco from the comfort of an armchair in the Sky Lounge every day throughout July. Sip on a special selection of mint and other traditional beverages at the Lounge’s Moroccan tea station and treat yourself to a delightful plate of Arabic sweets. Open from Iftar time until 2:00 a.m.

Choices If you’re looking for a peaceful and hassle-free place to celebrate Iftar with family and friends this year, then head to Choices. Relax in the ambiance of a lantern-lit restaurant, where the evening celebrations include a sumptuous Mediterranean buffet and authentic live oud music. From 8:45 p.m. onwards. Celebrate the traditions of Ramadan every day and enjoy Iftar buffet for QR 185. The outlet will also be serving breakfast and lunch, but will not serve alcohol.

Al Nafourah Al Nafourah Garden brings the outside in during Holy Month with Iftar and Sohour celebrations in a ventilated Ramadan tent, every day until 2:00 a.m. Feast on lavish à la carte Ramadan dishes and relax after breaking fast while enjoying live oud performances and fragrant shisha.

81 QH July/Aug 2013 sri.indd 81

6/27/13 9:57 AM

Food & Dining InterContinental Doha

Shahrazad Tent In Al Wajba Ballroom Savour traditional Sohour with Oriental hot and cold mezzedes, Ramadan specialties and international cuisine prepared at live-cooking stations and served in the elegant atmosphere of the Shahrazad tent, where traditional Arabic splendours are combined with modern extravagance, complimented with authentic Arabian performances. Timing: 9:00 p.m. till 1:00 a.m. Price: QR 215 and QR 110 for kids below age 12 Shisha: QR 85 For reservations call 4484-4919 or 4484-4444.

Iftar At Coral Come celebrate Iftar with your family and friends with a wide selection of traditional Arabic dishes alongside international flavours served from live stations. Timing: From sunset till 8:00 p.m. Price: QR 195 and QR 100 for kids below age 12. For reservations call 4484-4919 or 4484-4444.

W Doha

Great Room Celebrate the arrival of the Holy Month of Ramadan and reunite with your beloved ones at the W Doha tent. Step inside a world of culinary delights from around the globe and enjoy the mesmerizing sounds of the W’s Ramadan band. The Ramadan tent will feature live food stations, an extended Arabic buffet, live Ramadan band with traditional Arabic instrumental music and shisha service. Iftar: Timing: 30 minutes before Iftar time till 8:00p.m. Price: QR 200 Sohour: Timing: From 9:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. Price: QR 270 Free for children below age six; 50% discount for children below age 12; price includes free-flowing soft drinks, Ramadan juices, water, Arabic coffee and Moroccan tea; 20% discount will apply for SPG card holders for Iftar only.

Fish Market, Belgian Café, Paloma and Lava will be closed during the Holy Month of Ramadan.

West End Renaissance Doha City Center Interactive cooking stations and live Arabic music top off the festivities in a backdrop of style and sophistication. Guests can look forward to a tantalizing selection of fresh salads, rich main courses and decadent desserts, as well as the legendary dishes of macheboos, a lamb and rice tradition, and the sweet um-ali dessert. Guests can continue the celebrations at the Sohour buffet, not forgetting of course a selection of shisha during both events. With décor inspired by the wonders of the Middle East, the Renaissance Doha City Center Hotel is the perfect location to capture the excitement and elegance of Ramadan. Located on the first floor, the ballroom will be serving Iftar and Sohour.

Celebrate Iftar & Sohour In Style

Iftar: Timing: Sunset until 8:00 p.m. Price: QR 195. Kids 7-12 years, QR 125. Kids under age 6 dine free

Sohour: During Ramadan, the Renaissance Doha will be transformed to reflect the Timing: 9:00 p.m. till 1:30 a.m. colours, flavours and sounds of ancient Arabia with a modern twist. Ramadan is a time for family and friends, with a spirit of kindness and hope. Price: QR 235. Kids 7-12 years ,Qr 125.Kids under age 6 dine free But it’s also a time for feasts and celebrations, so the Renaissance’s Executive Shisha: QR 85 Chef Christian Jean, has planned a vibrant array of international delicacies with the most exquisite Arabic favourites. Families are invited to break their fast with a delicious Iftar buffet combining the finest recipes and amazing treats.

82 QH July/Aug 2013 sri.indd 82

6/27/13 9:57 AM

QH July/Aug 2013 sri.indd 83

6/27/13 9:57 AM

Food & Dining Listings RECOMMENDS

rized catego mited e r a s is li ing All list el. Inclusion ce, with t a per ho ability of sp ertisers. il v to ava given to ad y priorit

GRAND HYATT DOHA Eid Brunch

The Grill. Are you ready for The Grill’s comeback after Ramadan? They would love to invite you for their Eid brunch at The Grill, where all the fun happens. They will entertain your senses with lavish culinary delicacies, an on-going flow of special beverages and outstanding entertainment. QR 280 or add QR 115 and enjoy a continuous flow of special beverages or upgrade to Moet brunch for QR 680. From 12:30 noon till 4:00 p.m. For more information call 4448-1240.

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA THE CITY Sushi Night

Mondays (July/Aug): Strata. Open sushi and sashimi, accompanied by a Japanese traditional beverage. QR 250 for food only. For more information call 4015-8888 or visit doharestaurants@ihg.com.

RAMADAN & EID PROMOTIONS Mövenpick Hotel Doha You Dine They Donate

Executive Chef Ery and his brigade have prepared some amazing offers for their guests to share with their family, friends and business associates this Holy Month of Ramadan. When the sun sets, break your fast at Seasons restaurant with an Iftar buffet of traditional Ramadan dishes for QR 140 per person. The hotel is embracing the spirit of giving by donating QR 10 to charity for every Iftar diner at Seasons restaurant throughout the Holy Month. As Ramadan is the time for gathering family and loved ones, Mövenpick Doha is offering bookings of 10 people at 10% off, 20 people get 20% off and tables of 30 people or more get 30% off the total bill. For more information call 4429-1111.

Eid Brunch Seasons. The Seasons restaurant has set the stage for a grand celebration brunch on the first day of Eid Al Fitr. Middle Eastern and international specialties will be served from lavish buffets and live cooking stations. There will be plenty to keep the little ones happy with games, an indoor bouncy castle, face painting and a kids’ buffet. QR 215 per person without beverages or QR 265 including coffee, tea, soft drinks and bubbly. From 12:00 noon to 3:30 p.m. Children 12 years and under eat free and 12 years to 16 years get 50% off.

MAGNOLIA BAKERY Ramadan Treat

Magnolia Bakery is celebrating Ramadan with a gift tin of inspired Arabic cupcake designs, perfect for personal or corporate gifts as well as the introduction of their Qatar Heritage cupcake; a delicious date and orange-flavoured cupcake with your choice of buttercream icing, decorated with a beautiful sugar shell and shimmering pearl. For advance orders please visit the store located in Dar Al Salam Mall, Abu Hamour or call 4450-9407. Magnolia’s opening hours during Ramadan: orders can be collected from 4:00 p.m. daily and the bakery will be serving from Iftar until 2:00 a.m.

GRAND HERITAGE DOHA Eid Al Fitr Celebrations

Agora Restaurant. Grand Heritage Doha has unveiled a rich choice of culinary delights and family entertainment to make this year’s Eid Al Fitr truly memorable. Celebrate with traditional flavours of Turkish delicacies in a family sharing-style set menu. QR 290 per person, from 6:00 p.m. till 11:30 p.m. (available 1st and 2nd day of Eid.) For more information call 4445-5555.

Eid Brunch

Flavours Restaurant. Enjoy a special Eid brunch buffet with live cooking stations and entertainment for children at Flavours restaurant. QR 195 per person (50% off for children ages 6-12 years old, while kids under five dine with our compliments.) From 12:30 noon till 4:00 p.m. For more information call 4445-5555.

KEMPINSKI RESIDENCES & SUITES Eid Family Lunch

Aroma. On the day of Eid, the award-winning culinary team of Aroma brings the buffet to your table with a four-course family lunch menu. Reflecting the Arabian hospitality, the menu is ideal for sharing with your loved ones, featuring traditional luscious dishes. QR 195 per person including Ramadan juices. From 12:30 p.m. till 3:30 p.m. For more information call 4405-3325 or email restaurants.doha@kempinski.com or visit www.kempinski.com/doha.

SHERATON DOHA Eid Buffet Brunch

Al Shaheen Restaurant. Celebrate Eid with a unique Arabic meal. Standard package QR 240 per person and Special package QR 295 per person. This offer is valid during the first two days of Eid from 11:00 a.m. till 3:00 p.m. Kids Corner available. For more information call 4485-4071.

Eid Lunch

Al Hubara Restaurant. Enjoy an Oriental and international buffet for the first three days of Eid. QR 240 per person and QR 120 per child below 12 years old; children under age six enjoy a complimentary meal. From 12:00 noon till 3:00 p.m. For more information call 4485-4071.

me te that so Please no may also be open ts ch during restauran st and lun for breakfa ome promotions S . Ramadan. available in August e b t o n may

84 QH July/Aug 2013 sri.indd 84

6/27/13 9:57 AM

Blu Sky-10x26.5.pdf

4/11/13

11:39 AM

WEST END RENAISSANCE DOHA CITY CENTER Eid Buffet

Crossroads. An international buffet featuring traditional Arabic favourites, interactive cooking stations and delectable desserts. From QR 235, children 7-12 years half-price, children under six dine free. From 12:00 p.m. till 3:30 p.m. For more information call 4419-6100 or visit www.westenddoha.com/crossroads.

BLU

PROMOTIONS CHOWKING Value Meals

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

sky thinking

SIZZLING HOT POT First Of Its Kind

Holiday Villa Hotel. The first of its kind in the Middle East, Sizzling Hot Pot offers a unique dining experience as you and your family can cook your own meal at your table’s very own hot pot. For more information call 4411-5225.

THE ST. REGIS DOHA Summer Truffle Menu

Fri 20 – Fri 27 (Aug): Gordon Ramsay. This August, the fine dining Gordon Ramsay restaurant offers a 5-course degustation menu to highlight the flavour and aroma of the little black diamonds. QR 825 food only and QR 1,250 with sommelier’s selection. From 6:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4446-0105 or email diningreservations@stregis.com.

583 Rooms Located in the heart of Doha Enjoy 20 restaurants & bars and an oasis of leisure facilities

CMY

W DOHA Jazz Brunch

Fri 5 (July): Market by Jean-Georges. Enjoy a fabulous brunch that includes live entertainment by Doha Jazz. QR 380 per person including house beverages. QR 290 including selected soft beverages. For more information call 4453-5135 or email bnfreservations.wdoha@whotels.com.

EVERY WEEK MÖVENPICK HOTEL DOHA Lunch On The Go Daily: Mövenpick Doha. Order your lunch and enjoy it in the privacy of your office. QR 59 including your choice of delicious sandwiches and fresh, crispy salad and a mouthwatering desert. For more information call 4429-1111.

Lunch At Seasons

Daily (After Ramadan): Seasons. Spend a lazy summer afternoon enjoying a long, leisurely lunch at Seasons restaurant. The enticing daily lunch buffet is packed with many delicious delicacies from antipasti, fresh salads, soups and a special main course a la carte menu all made up of tasty ingredients for a good lunch break. End your meal with some delicious French pastries perfectly complemented by the world-famous Mövenpick coffee or enjoy their renowned Mövenpick ice cream. Light and refreshing, just sit back and savour every bite of the gourmet treasures made within your reach for only QR 85. For more information call 4429-1111.

QH July/Aug 2013 sri.indd 85

Salwa Road, Intersection of the C Ring Road Doha, Qatar Tel: +974 4428 1428 Fax: +974 4441 0941 E-mail: info.doha@radissonblu.com

6/27/13 9:57 AM

Food & Dining Listings GRAND HERITAGE Refinement Of Ottoman & Modern Turkish Cuisine

Mon – Sat (Aug): Agora. The restaurant offers a contemporary Turkish family dining experience with a difference. The cuisine at Agora is inspired by a blend of light spices from the Ottoman Imperial Court era, cuisine from the Black Sea region influenced by Balkan cookery, as well as some Mediterranean touches. From 6:00 p.m. till 11:30 p.m. (Closed during Ramadan). For more information call 4445-5555.

Indian Night

Wednesdays (Aug): Flavours Restaurant. Indulge in a vivid buffet dinner that captures the diverse tastes of traditional Indian dishes with a contemporary twist. Choose from a delectable selection of curries and biryanis, kebabs and breads from our live tandoor oven. Be sure to have the traditional mango lassi to accompany your meal. QR 199, from 7:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. (Closed during Ramadan). For more information call 4445-5555.

KEMPINSKI RESIDENCES & SUITES A La Carte Dinner Menu

Daily (July/Aug): Aroma. Right after Iftar meal has finished, indulge in the delectable dinner à la carte menu in the award-winning Aroma. Enjoy exceptional quality from the creative team of their Executive Chef Mike Scheumann in the stylish ambiance of Aroma. From 7:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4405-3325 or email restaurants.doha@kempinski.com or visit www.kempinski.com/doha.

Aroma Breakfast & Lunch

Daily (July/Aug): Aroma. The restaurant will be open for breakfast and lunch throughout the Holy Month of Ramadan. Start your day with a healthy selection of breakfast items and indulge during your lunch break with the fresh gourmet Business Lunch menu. Your choice of starters, main courses and desserts from QR 90 per person. Form 6:30 a.m. till 11:00 a.m. (breakfast) and from 12:00 noon till 3:00 p.m. (business lunch). For more information call 4405-3325 or email restaurants.doha@kempinski.com or visit www.kempinski.com/doha.

Gourmet House Breakfast & Light Lunch

Daily (July/Aug): Gourmet House will keep its doors open during the Holy Month of Ramadan, serving its famous delicacies, light lunch options and freshly-brewed coffee, perfect for business meetings, coffee breaks or just relaxation! From 7:00 a.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4405-3325 or email restaurants.doha@kempinski.com or visit www.kempinski.com/doha.

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA THE CITY Theme Nights At The Square (July/Aug) Saturday: Oriental, indulge in an array of traditional Lebanese food. Sunday: Asian, captures the spirit and flavours of Asia. Monday: Italian, typical homemade Italian cuisine, antipasto, seafood, pasta and pizza. Tuesday: Indian, seduces tastebuds with authentic Indian delicacies. Friday: International food on display. QR 180, from 6:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4015-8888 or visit doharestaurants@ihg.com.

Seafood Night

Wednesdays (July/Aug): The Square. Enjoy great seafood at The Square for QR 350 including selected house beverages and QR 250 including soft drinks and mocktails. From 6:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 401-8888 or visit www.doharestaurants@ihg.com.

LA CIGALE HOTEL International Flavours

Sat – Fri (Aug): Le Cigalon. Enjoy international cuisine and daily extravagant buffet breakfast, lunch and dinner. A La Carte option is available. From 6:30 a.m. till 11:30 p.m. For more information call 4428-8698.

Celebrate Italian food

Sat- Fri (Aug): Di Capri. Celebrate an Italian flair with the exuberant A La Carte menu and a wide selection of vino. Enjoy Le Cigalon’s extended buffet lunch every Friday at the intimate place of Di Capri. From 12:00 noon till 3:00 p.m. and 7:00 pm till 11:30 pm. For more information call 4428-8698.

It’s All About Sushi

Sat – Fri (July/Aug): YEN Sushi Bar. Enjoy some of the best sushi and sashimi served on a special rotating belt with a colour-coded plated formula along with an A La Carte menu. Daily from 11:30 a.m. till 12:00 midnight. For more information call 4428-8698.

RADISSON BLU Raclette Night

Mondays (July/Aug): Picassos. Join them for dinner on Raclette Mondays and indulge in a delightful Raclette buffet for QR 90 per person. For more information call 4428-1555 or email info@radissonblu.com.

TER S I G E R Esletter I5N w Oe WNeeL e n kly ing.com pen for th atarhap www.q

THE ST. REGIS DOHA Ramadan At Al Sultan Brahim

Mon – Sat (July): Al Sultan Brahim. It’s always good to share! Enjoy genuine Middle Eastern-inspired food in Al Sultan Brahim featuring a selection of soups, mezze and main courses prepared from traditional recipes, while being entertained with live traditional music. QR 300 per person, including soft beverages and Ramadan juices from sunset till 11:30 p.m. For more information call 4446-0105 or email diningreservations@stregis.com.

Lavish Breakfast

Daily (Aug): Opal by Gordon Ramsay. Enjoy a luxurious breakfast every day for QR 150. Open during Ramadan. For more information call 4446-0105 or email diningreservations@stregis.com.

Burger & Pint Night

Mondays (Aug): Opal by Gordon Ramsay. Monday nights in August is burger night at Opal -genuinely the best burger in Doha! Served with fries, grain and Opal’s homemade ketchup for QR 100, from 6:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4446-0105 or email diningreservations@stregis.com.

Chef’s Table At Astor Grill

Sun – Fri (Aug): Astor Grill. Book the Chefs Table and get up close and personal with Chef Roudy and the team in Astor Grill while enjoying the theatre of the kitchen! Their chefs will create a bespoke menu or you can choose from two tasting menus. There’s the Chef’s Menu (depending on the chef choices) and a four-course tasting menu for QR 350 or with wine pairing for QR 500. From 7:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4446-0105 or email diningreservations@stregis.com.

WEST END AT THE RENAISSANCE DOHA CITY CENTER New York Steakhouse Lunch

Sun-Thurs (Aug): New York Steakhouse. A select lunch menu of beef tartare, seafood and deluxe burgers, along with fresh salads and fine desserts. A house favourite is their QR 135 burger, side and dessert option for a speedier meal in this elegant city setting. From 12:00 noon till 3:00 p.m., dinner from 6:30 p.m. till 11:30 p.m. Valet parking included. For more information call 4419-6100 or visit westenddoha.com/new-york-steakhouse. Returns for lunch Sunday, August 11 after Ramadan.

ORYX ROTANA The Cellar

Daily (July/Aug): Every day is quick bite time and Oryx is ready for it. Enjoy the Cellar’s three-course set menu including a large variety of starters, main dishes and desserts. QR 89 per person for lunch and QR 145 per person for dinner guaranteed to be served in 60 minutes. From 12:00 noon till 10:00 p.m. Outlet will not serve alcohol throughout Ramadan.

86 QH July/Aug 2013 sri.indd 86

6/27/13 9:57 AM

WEEKEND THE DIPLOMATIC CLUB Weekend Roast

Fridays (Aug): Le Grill. Le Grill puts together the perfect weekend roast for you and your friends to enjoy a special moment. With all its traditional trimmings, the roast comes with many choices of meat for QR 180 per person including soft drinks, mineral water and chilled juices. QR 220 per person including soft drinks, mineral water, chilled juices and house beverages. From 12:00 noon till 4:00 p.m. For more information call 4484-7470. Le Grill will continue with its set menu for only QR 195 including one house beverages. Offered daily during normal opening hours. Le Grill will be featuring a qanoun player after Ramadan.

THE RITZ-CARLTON DOHA Family Fun Day

Saturdays (Aug): The Lagoon. Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s no better retreat in the city than the lush and green Lagoon Garden to celebrate an even longer family weekend. Children enjoy their own activities and games at the Kidsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Corner while adults indulge al fresco with their favourite hops and festive ambiance! The party invites guests to enjoy the live entertainment while savouring a sumptuous selection of BBQs from around the world. QR 260/person including soft beverages, QR 335/person including bubbly, or QR 415/full brunch. Kids under the age of four can dine free. QR 130 for kids ages 4 -12 years old. From 12:00 noon till 4:30 p.m. For more information call 4484-8512.

THE ST. REGIS DOHA Coastal Cuisine Evening Buffet

Thursdays: Vine. Every Thursday evening enjoy the ultimate evening buffet with an extensive selection of fresh fish and seafood for connoisseurs who desire the finest experience. QR 250 including soft beverages; QR 350 including enhanced beverages. From 6:30 p.m. till 11:30 p.m. For more information call 4446-0105 or email diningreservations@stregis.com.

BRUNCH INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA THE CITY The Square Fridays (Aug): Enjoy a lavish brunch at this cosmopolitan hotel. QR 320 including selected house beverages and QR 210 including soft drinks and mocktails. From 12:00 noon till 4:00 p.m. For more information call 4015-8888 or visit doharestaurants@ihg.com.

RADISSON BLU Hyde Park Coffee Shop

Fridays (Aug): Let their team of chefs tempt you with fresh seafood, sushi, Chinese, Indian and European specialties. QR 160 per person or QR 220 including a little sparkle! From 12:00 noon till 3.00 p.m. For more information call 4428-1555 or info@radissonblu.com.

THE ST. REGIS DOHA Vine

Fridays (Aug): Gather with family and experience a memorable family brunch. Parents can relax and enjoy breath-taking views from the terrace while listening to live music while children are entertained. QR 275 including soft drinks and QR 375 including a selection of beverages. From 12:30 noon till 4:00 p.m. For more information call 4446-0105 or email diningreservations@stregis.com.

Join us for the holy month of Ramadan and experience a fusion of traditional Arabic hospitality and modern culinary delights. For only QAR. 650 per room per night during weekdays, enjoy a complimentary Iftar Jdoudna and Sohour for two featuring authentic traditional cuisines. This delightful offer comes with 25% discount on laundry services and recreational activities. The perfectly decorated ambience of the resort overlooking the Gulf sea enhanced with Arabic delights creates the serenity of the Holy month. For more information please call 44765299.

87 QH July/Aug 2013 sri.indd 87

6/27/13 2:53 PM

Food & Dining Listings Opal by Gordon Ramsay

Fri & Sat (Aug): The first a la carte brunch in Doha! Enjoy the true British brunch experience at Opal by Gordon Ramsay with a selection of breakfast items and Opal favourites. Select from the unlimited à la carte menu and have a fabulous brunch. QR 250 only for food, QR 375 including selected beverages. From 12:00 noon till 4:00 p.m. for more information call 4446-0105 or email diningreservations@stregis.com.

BUSINESS LUNCH CHOWKING

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

KEMPINSKI RESIDENCES & SUITES Lunch Break In West Bay

Sat – Thurs (July/Aug): Kempinski Residences & Suites. Select from the fresh gourmet Business Lunch menu your choice of starters, main courses and desserts and indulge in the most delectable business lunch in Doha. QR 90 per person. Try the healthy option! From 12:00 noon till 3:00 p.m. For more information call 4405-3325 or email restaurants.doha@kempinski.com or visit www.kempinski.com/doha.

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA THE CITY The Square

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

LA CIGALE HOTEL Le Central

Daily (Aug): Le Central welcomes you and your corporate associates for a closed business deal with its specialty three-course Business Set Menu for QR 150 from 12:00 noon till 3:00 p.m. For more information call 4428-8772.

THE ST. REGIS DOHA Opal by Gordon Ramsay

Sat – Thurs (July/Aug): Discover the Chef’s menu of the day at Opal by Gordon Ramsay. Be it with colleagues or clients, enjoy a delicious three-course lunch with a different Chef-selected menu each week and a refreshing mocktail. QR 130 with selected beverages. From 12:00 noon till 3:00 p.m. Open during Ramadan. For more information call 4446-0105 or email diningreservations@stregis.com.

W DOHA Market by Jean-Georges

Sat – Thurs (Aug): Enjoy a delicious three-course express lunch meal at the luxurious Market for QR 89, from 12:00 noon till 4:00 p.m. For more information call 4453-5135 or email bnfreservations.wdoha@whotels.com.

WEST END RENAISSANCE DOHA CITY CENTER Cucina

Sun- Thurs (July/Aug): If you like variety, then you’ll love Cucina’s express lunch, where you can choose from six entrees, six mains and five desserts. Using only the highest quality ingredients, this menu is a favourite with the local Italian clientele. QR 85, from 12:00 noon till 3:00pm, valet parking included. For more information call 4419-6100 or visit westenddoha.com/cucina. Open during Ramadan from 12:00 noon till 3:30 p.m. Dinner 6.30 p.m. till 11:00 p.m.

SPECIAL LISTINGS ASPIRE KATARA HOSPITALITY Red Velvet

Aug: Katara Cultural Village. Enjoy educational fun as children learn how to decorate their own cupcake. Recommended for birthday parties and any other social occasion at QR 60 per child. Advance reservations are highly recommended. Call 4408-7000. July/Aug: Cool down this summer at Red Velvet with their ice cream sandwiches, milkshakes, fresh juices and iced teas. Buy an ice cream sandwich and get a small bottle of regular water for free, available daily. Call 4408-7000. July/Aug: Enjoy your favourite Red Velvet cupcakes right in the comfort of your own home. For a minimum order of 100 pieces, delivery is free. Call 4408-7000.

El Cigar Lounge.

July/Aug: Katara Cultural Village. A better way to unwind with friends on weekends is with sumptuous savouries and refreshing signature mocktails while listening to the rhythm of classical jazz music from 7:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m, Thurs-Fri. Call 4408-0750. July/Aug: Enjoy a high-tea set of mouth-watering savouries, sweets and varieties of tea and coffee served in elegance and style, available from 3:00 p.m. till midnight daily, Thurs-Fri. Call 4408-0750.

L’wzaar Seafood Market.

July/Aug: Katara Cultural Village. Our special main course might be your choice. Visit L’wzaar and relish their daily recommendation of the day. Call 4408-0710.

July/Aug: With family and friends, come celebrate any special occasion at L’wzaar and capture the moment for a happy and everlasting memory with a free snapshot that will be featured in the L’wzaar Celebrant’s book. Call 4408-0710. July/Aug: Don’t miss the newest addition to L’wzaar’s way of cooking: Tandoori grill and Thai curry available daily. Call 4408-0710. July/Aug: A family that shares a meal strengthens the bond between each other. In L’wzaar’s family section, we ensure that families are well-attended with the comfort they deserve. Advance reservations are highly recommended. Call 4408-0710. July/Aug: Teppanyaki dining is a unique experience; watch as their award-winning chef expertly prepares fresh ingredients right before your eyes. Available daily. Call 4408-0710.

Shawarma Albisana

July/Aug: Katara Cultural Village. For only QR 15, enjoy your favourite chicken or beef Shawarma with a cold soft drink. For convenience they take and serve your take-away order directly to your car. Call 4408-1400.

Chac’late

Aug: Katara Cultural Village. Treat yourself to a unique Parisian breakfast or indulge in their exceptional Chac’late Breakfast. From 8:00 a.m. till 11:00 a.m. Call 4408-0733.

Le Vesuvio

Mon – Sat (Aug): Katara Cultural Village. Le Vesuvio offers an afternoon alternative treat, a coffee break menu consisting of speciallyprepared sweet selections and varieties of hot and cold beverages. From 3:30 p.m. till 6.30 p.m. For more information call 4408-1500.

Aspire Grand Café

Aug: Aspire Park. Aspire Grand Café offers much more than coffee and sandwiches. Choose from fresh sushi, soups and a wide array of hot dishes and beverage items. Whether on-the-go or enjoying the tranquil surroundings of Aspire Park with family and friends, enjoy their Grab-to-Go affordable options. Call 4408-1996.

SOUQ WAQIF The Courtyard, Al Najada Boutique Hotel

July/Aug: The Courtyard is an all-day international fusion restaurant at the heart of Al Najada, ideal for a relaxed meal surrounded by fountains, palm trees and contemporary Qatari art. Serving healthy breakfast items and light alfresco meals à la carte throughout the day. Ramadan operating hours from 6:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m., with Iftar and Sohour a la carte options. For more information call 4433-6666.

88 QH July/Aug 2013 sri.indd 88

6/27/13 9:57 AM

The Dining Room, Al Najada Boutique Hotel

July/Aug: The Dining Room is a fusion fine-dining restaurant, serving innovative dishes Ă la carte and a spectacular tailormade degustation menu. Ramadan operating hours from 6:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m., with Iftar and Sohour a la carte and a degustation menu. For more information call 4433-6666.

Al Canteen, Arumaila Boutique Hotel

July/Aug: Al Canteen is an animated all-day dining restaurant with relaxed service and creative food presentation. Serving a selection of satisfying international dishes from five continents, including soups, salads and light meals prepared with fresh, high-quality ingredients. Ramadan operating hours, open daily for breakfast from 7:00 a.m. till 11:30 a.m. and all-day dinning from 11:30 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4433-6777.

Ahmed Hassan Bilal Group

The Drawing Room, Al Jasra Boutique Hotel

July/Aug: The Drawing Room is a trendy and intimate lounge that takes style and comfort to another level, serving delightful snacks, light meals and hot and cold beverages in a relaxed lobby setting. Ramadan operating hours from 6:00 p.m. to 2:00 a.m. with Iftar buffet and Sohour a la carte. For more information call 4433-6666.

Argan, Al Jasra Boutique Hotel

July/Aug: Argan offers guests a true Moroccan hospitality experience in a majestic setting, with vibrant colours and a relaxing majlis area, serving authentic Moroccan cuisine, including traditional soups, mezze, tagines, handmade pastries and sweet teas. Ramadan operating hours from 6:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. with Iftar buffet and Sohour a la carte and normal Argan Moroccan menu. For more information call 4433-6666.

LA VARENNE La Varenne Brunch

Aug: An exciting new offering for La Varenne, join them every Friday from 12:00 noon till 4:00 p.m. to indulge in a French country brunch. Enjoy a full-course, all-you-can-eat menu with sharing-style dishes showcasing the best La Varenne salads, starters, rotisserie meats, main dishes, special country bread and wonderful sweet treats created by our exceptional pastry team, along with our dessert trolley and signature drinks. For more information call 4499-0680 or email reservations@lavarenne.qa.

Open All Weekend

Aug: La Varenne will also be open for extended breakfast on Friday and Saturday from 8:00 a.m. till 12:00 noon, Saturday business lunch from 12:00 noon till 3:00 p.m., and Friday and Saturday dinner from 7:00 p.m. till 10:00 p.m. For more information call 4499-0680 or email reservations@lavarenne.qa. Parking is available in the visitorsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; car-park to the left of Tornado Tower. Please tell the guard you are visiting La Varenne.

TER REGISINE r wslette ONeeL kly 5 ne om W .c for the tarhappening a .q w w w

89 QH July/Aug 2013 sri.indd 89

6/27/13 9:58 AM

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

International

Chinese

4411-0188

Chopsticks 4434-3333

Al Hubara

4485-4444

Chili’s 4466-0663

D’Chopstix 4408-4888

Al Liwan Restaurant

4424-2888

Ipanema 4419-6100

Royal Bafilyon

4411-4458

Al Matbakh Rooftop Grill

4433-6777

Johnny Rockets

4455-2792

Ruby Wu’s

4428-1428

Al Shaheen Restaurant

4485-4444

Latino 4485-4444

Wok of Fame

4413-4772

Animato 4496-6600

Contemporary European

Choices 4402-3333

Oyster Bay

4446-0105

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

4443-7846

Rodizio Brazilian Churrascaria

4408-7777

Salsa 4429-8888 TGI Friday’s

4488-7008

Arabic & Lebanese Agora 4445-5555 Al Balad

4491-8692

Al Bandar

4431-1818

Aroma 4405-3325 Astor Grill

4446-0105

Belgian Café

4484-4444

Gordon Ramsay

4446-0105

La Mer

4484-8000

Market by Jean-Georges

4453-5135

Opal by Gordon Ramsay

4446-0105

French La Sahtaine

4423-3333

La Varenne

4499-0680

Blue Brasserie Restaurant

4472-2666

Corniche 4429-8888 Cosmo Restaurant

4424-7777

Crossroads Kitchen

4419-6100

De Dine Zone Restaurant

4470-8822

East 4433-6666 Grand Gourmet

4434-3333

La Brasserie

4446-2222

La Cigalon Restaurant

4428-8888

Lifestyle Restaurant

4463-2154

Mawasem 4423-3333 Mehfil Restaurant

4409-4444

The Dining Room (Al Najada Boutique Hotel)

4433-6666

Al Batross

4432-8888

Al Canteen

4433-6666

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

4483-4423

Maxim 4428-1428

The Dining Room (Fraser Suites Hotel)

4424-3444

Al Mourjan Al Sayyad

4484-7420

Quisine by Guy Savoy

The Grill

4448-1234

Al Sultan Brahim

4446-0105

Sormani 4495-3876 Ext. 3222

The Lagoon

4484-8000

Al Tawash

4498-2002

Argan 4433-6666 Burj Al Hamam

4495-3876

4002-7245

Indian

Italian

Istanbul Sultan Dining Restaurant 4468-5089

Biryani Hut

4464-1401

Khan Rafouk Tarab Café

Bombay Baiti

4428-1428

4408-0840

Layali 4431-0005

Chingari 4428-1428

Lebanese Shawarma

4466-2616

Idyl Factory

6674-1143

Liza 4495-3876

Royal Indian

4466-6876

Majlis 4448-1234

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

Marmara Istanbul

4436-2947

Tajine 4435-5554 Tangia 4434-3333 The Tent

4432-8888

Turkey Central

4443-2927

Vine 4446-0105

Bice Ristorante

4495-3876

Carluccio’s 4495-3876 Cucina 4419-6100 Di Capri

4428-8698

Fabio’s Pizza

4416-5641

II Teatro

4494-8888

La Dolce Vita Italian Restaurant

4436-7991

Saffron Lounge

3325-8919

La Veranda

4485-4444

Sukh Sagar

4431-9172

Picasso’s 4428-1428

Taj Rasol

4429-8888

Porcini 4484-8000

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

Romano’s Macaroni Grill

4451-7585

The Italian Job

4428-1428

90 QH July/Aug 2013 sri.indd 90

6/27/13 9:58 AM

Japanese

Bar Food

Cafés

Neo 4432-2508

Belgian Café

4484-4444

4442-8989

De Ozone

4470-8822

Alison Nelson’s Chocolate Bar

4495-3878 Ext. 1311

Sakura 4428-1428

Madison Piano Bar

4428-8888

Al Jalsa

4425-6666

Strata Restaurant & Lounge

4015-8888

Pool Bar

4484-4444

Al Kut Lounge

4434-3203

Sushi Minto

4467-5577

Shehrazad 4428-1428

Al Mandarine

4463-3748

Yen Sushi Bar

4428-8888

The Irish Harp

4485-4444

Atrium Lounge

4485-4444

The Lounge

4405-3325

Bab Al Baher

4423-3333

Oishi Sushi

Mediterranean

Wahm 4453-5353

Aramede 4408-7777

Burgers

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

Bistro Bistro

4428-1428

La Villa

4446-2222

American Grill

Le Central Restaurant

4428-8888

Chili’s 4466-0663

Medi @ The Village

4444-4700

Fuddruckers

4411-0188 4483-3983

Café De Biznez

4470-8822

Café Tasse

4444-7017

Café Vergnano 4495-3876 Ext. 2611

Mykonos 4484-4444

Hardee’s 4467-8750

Coffee Time

4466-7551

Rocca 4448-1234

Johnny Rockets

4455-2792

Colombiano

4434-2753

The Cellar

TGI Friday’s

4488-7008

Dean and Deluca

4451-9780

Dell @ The Village

4444-4700

Gourmet House

4405-3333

Jones the Grocer

4407-7175

La Margarita

4409-4444

Le Gourmet

4436-1789

Lime Café

4496-6600

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

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

Moka and Co

4458-3232

Orangery Café Troittor

4428-8888

Quick Bites

4419-6134

4428-1428

Sarab Lounge

4446-0105

4402-3333

Seafood

Persian Grill @ The Village

4444-4700

Southeast Asian Asia Live!

4429-8888

Chowking Delivery Hotline 4431-1212 Mamoura 4486-6077 Al Khor 4411-8816/17 Salwa Road 4437-1212 Al Sadd St. 4431-4411

Al Dana

4425-6666

Al Dente Seafood Restaurant

4472-2666

Al Sayyad

4484-7420

Al Sultan Brahim

4446-0105

Fish Market

4484-4444

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

4428-1428

Mango Tree

4495-3876

Nusantao: Sea Kitchens

4494-8888

Sizzling Hot Pot

4411-5225

Spice Market

4453-5353

JW’s Steakhouse

4429-8888

Savor 4408-7777

Sri Kebaya

4434-0838

Le Grill

4484-7412

Shisha Garden

4428-8888

The Noodle House City Center Mall The Pearl

4411-5063 4495-3876

New York Steakhouse

4419-6100

Sky Lounge

4402-3333

Prime 4015-8888

Sugar and Spice

4411-4456

Wok Mee Noodle House

4496-6600

The Butcher Shop and Grill

4413-5508

The Courtyard

4433-6444

The Old Manor Steakhouse

4446-2222

The Drawing Room

4433-6666

The Lobby Lounge

4484-8000

The Terrace Lounge

4433-6555

Torch Café

4446-5600

W Café

4453-5353

Ya Hala

4423-3333

Steakhouses Bentley’s Grill

91 QH July/Aug 2013 sri.indd 91

6/27/13 9:58 AM

QH July/Aug 2013 sri.indd 92

6/27/13 1:59 PM

Sports

s k c i P p o T ’s h t This Mon Regency Travel & Tours Dukhan West Coast Tour

Daily: Dukhan. Located in the west coast of Qatar, Dukhan is an important industrial city. Home to unique limestone rocks, hillocks and sandy beaches, Dukhan is populated mainly by employees of the oil companies with their families who form a close-knit but vibrant community. Tour duration is four hours. For more information call 4434-4499.

The Diplomatic Club Personal Training

InterContinental Doha Circuit Training

Thurs: The Bay Club Fitness classes. Widely regarded as the best all-round form of group exercise. It allows each individual to work at one’s own pace but in a group environment. This session is not for the faint-hearted; however, if you enjoy a tough workout in a friendly atmosphere with every session different from the last, then this is what you’ve been looking for. All you need is a lot of enthusiasm and a sense of humour when it gets tough! Starts at 6:00 p.m., QR 30 members, QR 40 non – members. For more information call 4484-4852.

Tours & l e v a r T y c n e g e R g Try Kayakinand Rowing Federation.

Daily: Qatar Sailing ter adventures like Enjoy some unique wa rt where spo a ng, kayaking/canoei manually propelled recreational kayaks are d paddles. The tour ade -bl ble dou or gle by sin For more information duration is two hours. call 4434-4499.

OUT om K C E H g.c C appenin

atarh tion! www.qthe latest informa

Sat – Thurs: The Diplomatic Club gym. The club’s higher professional personal trainers are on-hand to ensure you reach your desired wellness goals, be it body-fat loss, weight gain or general well-being. All the personal trainers are qualified and certified. From 7:00 a.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4484-7450.

Sheraton Doha Zumba

Sun, Tues & Fri: From 10.00 a.m. till 11:00 a.m., and 7:30 p.m. till 8:30 p.m., Sundays and Tuesday, Fridays from 10:00 a.m. till 11:00 a.m. QR 30 members and QR 40 non – members. For more information and bookings call 4485-4600.

for

93 QH July/Aug 2013 sri.indd 93

6/27/13 9:58 AM

Sports

! e v i t c A y a St This summer it’s all about sports! Kids and adults alike can put their fitness levels to the test with Evolution Sports’ summer camps and training programs. Don’t let the heat deter you – get out there and have fun!

Soccer Summer Camp With Evolution Sports

play the game to their highest potential. They pride themselves on giving players the best soccer training available, from the best coaches around!

Summer School Program Info

Evolution Soccer’s ever-popular soccer holiday club is back! This summer Evolution will be hosting a ten day course geared at five to 14year olds of all abilities and genders. Structured to meet the needs of all young players, the course will encourage youngsters to have fun, learn new skills and meet new friends in a safe and friendly environment. Children will receive excellent coaching by professionally-licensed trainers, guaranteeing your child the best opportunity to develop their skills as a soccer player. Also included are:

Green Cards

Week 1: From Sun, June 30 till Thurs, July 4

The use of Green Cards is a great example of how their coaches make learning the game a positive and inclusive experience. We all know about soccer’s use of Yellow and Red Cards, which tell a player when he or she isn’t doing something ‘right’. But what about when they are doing something right? Evolution Soccer’s coaches are equipped with Green Cards that do just that, helping build players’ confidence and encouraging them to repeat positive behaviours.

Week 2: From Sun, July 7 till Thurs, July 11

•

Evolution Soccer t-shirt

•

Certificate

•

The chance to win trophies and medals

Learning Stages Using many years of experience with soccer training, Evolution Soccer employs a unique, tested and perfected curriculum, designed to teach players of all ages and skill levels how to

Fun & Games A great camp experience isn’t complete without a little time for kids to have fun with their new friends. Evolution Soccer makes sure that the opportunity to let loose is never missed, with such classics as ‘Super Soaker Day’, ‘Dress the Coach Day’, and of course, the world-famous ‘Wacky Wednesday’. Many camps host a variety of skills contests and games of all kinds, where campers can win prizes. Come and join the fun!

Location: Doha College Daily Camp Hours: From 9:00 a.m. till 1:00 p.m. Ages: Five to 14-year olds Cost: QR 150 per day. Registration: Call 6622-4800 or email info@evosportsqatar.com Visit them online at www.evosportsqatar.com or www.facebook.com/EvoSportsQatar

94 QH July/Aug 2013 sri.indd 94

6/27/13 9:58 AM

Kids In Motion camp participants practice some football volleys Trainer extraordinaire Pete Collins

Kids In Motion Summer is just around the corner and with the success of last year’s Kids In Motion summer camp, Qmotion is happy to do it again this year. The camp is for kids ages four to 12, grouped accordingly based on the age level that would suit their appropriate development and interest.

Kids In Motion Camp Info Dates:

Sun, June 30 till Thurs, August 1 Sun, August 4th till Thurs, August 8 (Additional camp depending on demand)

Timings: From 8:00 a.m. till 1:00 p.m. Location: European Family Club: Mon, Tues & Thurs

Activities

•

Swimming

•

Arts & Crafts

InterContinental Beach Hotel: Sun, Wed

•

Beach Activities (kayak, beach sports, etc.)

Discount Scheme:

•

Workshops (cooking, traditional games, music, etc.)

•

10% for siblings

•

Martial Arts

•

Play & Learn

•

Age Groups:

•

Four to five years old (max. 15 kids/group – 2 groups)

•

Six to seven years old (max. 25 kids/group – 1 group)

•

Eight to 12 years old (max. 25 kids/group – 1 group)

DAYS

QMOTION MEMBERS

For more information contact 6617-0911 or visit http://www.qmotion.com.qa/ kidsinmotion/summercamp.php

Sports Solution brings fully-qualified fitness trainer, ex-Navy PTI and CrossFit coach Pete Collins to Doha. Starting Monday, July 1, Pete will be delivering a first-class, tailor-made fitness package of four workout sessions a week including a variety of different routines like CrossFit and HIIT (high intensity interval training), bespoke nutritional plans and advice, flexible training times, before and after weigh ins, prizes for best results and continued online support over the summer. There are convenient morning and evening workout times available including 9:00 p.m. till 10:00 p.m. Ramadan sessions. Participants must be 16 years of age or older.n 31Days2Fitness’ Program Info: Timings: Sun - Mon & Wed - Thurs (4-day split, one session a day) Morning: 6:00 a.m. till 7:00 a.m., or 8:00 a.m. till 9:00 a.m. Evening: 6:00 p.m. till 7:00 p.m., or 9:00 p.m. till 10:00 p.m. Location: Doha College

NON MEMBERS

2 Days - Mon & Wed QR 390 / Week

QR 430 / Week

3 Days - Sun / Tue / Thu QR 555 / Week

QR 615 / Week

5 Days - Sun - Thu

QR 975 / Week

QR 875 / Week

It’s Time To Get Fit Pete Collins and ‘31Days2Fitness’

Cost: QR 650 per person for the whole month Registration: To register for free visit www.dcqatar.net/clubsys/register and select ‘31Days2Fitness’, or email fitness@evosportsqatar.com. Schedule information will be provided via email and payment is accepted on the first full training day. Limited spots available.

95 QH July/Aug 2013 sri.indd 95

6/27/13 9:59 AM

Sports

g n i k c Pa

h c n u P A

agazine BODE M A d n a i co n liah Fur ca he Hilto ardt sy of De n t te la r a a u P s o c s ie Files Jess hai cla r lives. It’s a h aphy by Muay T Photogr ou

new e of rive the t summer shap g more. d t s e t bes ntin ! We no gain odies into the u sore and wa , n i a p yo rb No o get ou ill leave Doha t orkout that w • Muscle toning - the repetition of practicing kick, punch, knee and elbow techniques hitting w works every major muscle group

aitham Khalid is offering a fun way to get fit fast and learn self-defense techniques at the same time with the ancient Thai martial art of Muay Thai. During the last 5 years Haitham has trained with some of the greatest Muay Thai competition fighters from London, Holland, Brazil and of course the home of Muay Thai – Thailand. Here’s what he had to say about his love for Muay Thai and why you might want to try it as a form of exercise.

•

Mental Benefits The rigourous nature of Muay Thai training helps develop courage, discipline, determination and self-confidence. The training requires a lot of discipline and the correct mental approach.

•

Mental stamina & determination – developed through the training can easily, and usually does, carry over into other aspects of one’s character and encourages you to never give up.

•

Technique, patience and strategy technique is massively important in traditional Muay Thai which is a strategic sport where the competitors assess each other and try to identify flaws in their opponent’s technique. First, you learn techniques, and then you learn tactics. Students need to exercise patience in developing the technique and tactics.

•

Stress relief – the focus required in the training and the satisfaction of developing your technique and physical stamina are great forms of stress relief – once you learn the basics you start to really enjoy the physical aspects of the training and the exertion is a great way to relieve stress!

•

Self confidence - when you reach a certain level in Muay Thai your confidence in your inner strength will increase along with your ability to make sudden and timely decisions.

History of Muay Thai Muay Thai began as a close combat battlefield fighting skill and developed a name in Thailand as the ‘sport of kings’ because successive kings took interest in developing [it] for entertainment, as a fighting skill for their armies and as a form of exercise for Thai people. All social classes in Thailand enjoy Muay Thai and every year a huge competition is staged and televised which is called the Thai Fight.

Benefits of Muay Thai Muay Thai benefits go beyond the traditional mind-body-spirit benefits and as with martial arts in general, Muay Thai also has a social value.

Physical Benefits There are a range of physical benefits associated with Muay Thai and these benefits can become apparent relatively quickly depending on the level of commitment that is shown.

•

Weight loss - Muay Thai has a heavy focus on body conditioning and a big part of this is eating the right foods to prepare your body for the training Cardiovascular health - Muay Thai increases fitness levels through endurance-style training so it’s a great form of exercise and certainly improves cardiovascular health (a jog is usually part of the warm-up)

96 QH July/Aug 2013 sri.indd 96

Physical stamina - the exhausting training sessions will certainly increase stamina

•

Discipline – to succeed at Muay Thai you must train regularly, be in a learning mode when training and focus on keeping general good health (which includes taking care of your sleeping and eating routines). A necessary part of appreciating the power and the skill you develop is to exercise discipline. Competing at any level requires discipline in order to succeed.

PRICE INFO: Sharq Village & Spa: Single Class: QR 60 10 Classes: QR 550 20 Classes: QR 1,000 For more info visit www.sharqvillage.com The Hilton Doha Single Class: QR 70 12 Classes: QR 700 (All classes must be used within a 3-month period) For more information visit www.fitnesswithfood.com

6/27/13 9:59 AM

What You Can Expect In Your First Class Read on, and you’ll be a hard-as-a-rock lean machine in a matter of months... As a newcomer, you should be made to feel welcome. You’ll start by learning the basic techniques and working on pads. Also (and this is the bad part) you’ll be doing countless push-ups, sit-ups, squat thrusts, and various other body weight exercises designed to leave you a trembling wreck. The good part is it makes you stronger and you will have a more athletic body. The first thing you will learn is the basic guard stance and footwork. You will need to be well balanced in order to increase agility and create greater impact, in a basic stance your body should be vertical and your hands must always be up protecting your head. Once you are comfortable with your stance then you can try the following 4 moves to get you started.

Jab – is a quick punch with the lead hand. Most right-handed fighters stand in a left lead stance and therefore jab with the left hand. You will jab in order to keep your opponent at the right distance or in punching combinations. The jab is the first punch every Muay Thai student learns.

Cross punch - is a powerful, straight (direct) punch with the back hand. So if you stand in a left lead stance you punch with your right hand. The cross and the jab (lead hand punch) are the first punches Muay Thai beginners learn after the fighting stance and basic footwork in a triangular pattern.

Hook punch – you can throw a hook punch when your opponent is very close and he has both hands in front of his face. In Thai, the hook punch is called Short Jerk Punch or Mat Wiang San (Mat = Punch).

Going in for a

Keen focus and daily

lique kick

oss punch

actices a cr

Haitham pr

powerhouse ob

uay Thai offering M age, is m a h it Ha f any r adults (o classes fo el) from le fitness v nd the r o r e d n ge ha a Hilton Do e both the and will b a p ge & S , la il . V n q o r o a s Sh kids lasses for starting c e? Visit r o know m to t details n a W ite for full s b e w ’s ining Haitham other tra is h d n a s on classe t services a d.com.. sswithfoo e tn .fi w w w

Front thrust kick - By generating power through your hips the front thrust kick allows you to keep distance, or to knock your opponent down or to get them off-balance. You can kick with the front leg or with the back leg. Front leg kicks are faster, while back leg kicks are more powerful.

Oblique kick - a lot of people call this move the roundhouse kick or diagonal kick. Obviously, this kick is called oblique kick, because you are kicking to the obliques. There are other circular kicks in Muay Thai, such as the cut kick, the thigh kick and the down-roundhouse kick. Westerners usually call all of them roundhouse kicks.

Will You Have To Spar? Beginners do not spar and even when your skills develop you do not have to. A lot of people take up Muay Thai purely for its health benefits, and do not spar at all. n

a and endurance

training build stamin

97 QH July/Aug 2013 sri.indd 97

6/27/13 9:59 AM

Sports zed per ategori to c re a s g ed All listin lusion is limit h priority c In w l. ace, it hote ity of sp ers. il b a il a v a advertis given to

ORYX ROTANA Ramadan Promotions Bodylines Summer Swimming Classes 2013

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA THE BAY CLUB FITNESS CLASSES Abs Workout

Wed & Fri: The hotel’s instructors will concentrate on your exercise technique to work the abdominal muscles from every conceivable angle. To give your abs a good base of strength and tone, you need to concentrate and focus on core strength and stability. The instructor will check that you constantly maintain control in the correct area. FREE for members, QR 30 non-members. Join in and get the abs you’ve always wanted! From 11:15 a.m. For more information on all classes call 4484-4852.

EVERY WEEK INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA THE BAY CLUB FITNESS CLASSES Step Ao2

Mon & Wed: One of the most popular group fitness classes worldwide, Step AO2 improves both mental and physical fitness, burning away calories while learning fun routines to the newest music. More suitable for intermediate steppers. QR 30 members, QR 40 non-members. Starts at 10:00 a.m.

Spinning

Mon, Wed, Fri & Sat: The spinning program is the original and most popular group cycling class. With no complicated moves to learn, a motivating group environment, top-notch instructors and music that begs your legs to pedal, every class is a little different, but one of the great things about the spinning program is that it’s adaptable to your fitness level. QR 25 members, QR 35 non-members. Mon & Wed at 6:15 p.m., Fridays at 12:00 noon and Saturdays at 9:00 a.m.

Zumba Fitness

Mon, Wed & Fri: Zumba is the latest dance fitness craze taking over the world. Fitness should be fun and that’s exactly what Zumba is a mixture of Latin and international music fused together to create a fun, dance party atmosphere burning between 400-1000 calories per hour. It’s suitable for all ages, shapes and fitness levels so why not come along to a class and join in the party? QR 30 members, QR 40 non-members. Mondays 7:00 p.m. and Friday at 10:00 a.m. (mixed class) / Wednesdays at 7:00 p.m. (outdoors).

Core Training

Tues: This class focuses on exercises aimed at developing and maintaining a protective shield for the spinal column and internal organs. Equipment such as fitballs, light dumbbells and therabands add variation to the sessions. QR 30 members, QR 50 non-members. From 4:00 p.m. till 5:00 p.m.

Pilates

Mon & Wed: This special class focuses on a series of non-impact exercises designed to develop abdominal strength, flexibility, balance and improve postural alignment. Slow and controlled movements strengthen and lengthen muscles helping rebalance the body. (Please note that an advanced class is recommended once adequate strength is gained before attending). QR 30 members, QR 50 non members. Wednesdays at 11:00 a.m. till 12:00 noon and Mondays from 4:00 p.m. till 5:00 p.m.

Daily: Bodylines. The love of swimming starts here! Give your child the gift of water fun at an early age. Make your child comfortable and happy in the water at the Oryx Rotana’s Summer Camp for only QR 900 for members and QR 1,000 for non-members. Hurry up and enroll! Limited registration on a first-come-first-served basis. For more information call 4402-3333.

Personal Training

Daily: Bodylines. Enroll in their one-on-one training with a certified fitness instructor. Call 4402-3333 for more information and to inquire about their discounted rates.

THE DIPLOMATIC CLUB Fitness Classes

Daily: To keep up with your body, The Diplomatic Club offers a wide variety of aerobic classes from Pilates to spinning cycling, all week long. (Classes are Spinning Cycling, Push Power, Functional Training Workout, Core Training, Kilo Killer (KG), Fitness Pilates, Dynamic Stretch, GAL: Gluteus/ABS/Legs). From 7:00 a.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4484-7450.

WEEKEND SHERATON DOHA Indoor Cycling

Fri: From 10:00 a.m. till 11:30 a.m. QR 30 members and QR 40 non – members. For more information and bookings call 4485-4600.

Yoga & Pilates

Sat: From 9:00 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. QR 80 members and non- members. For more information and bookings call 4485-4600.

Step Power

Sat, Mon & Wed: From 10:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. QR 80 members and QR 100 non-members / per class. QR 500 members and QR 700.non-members (monthly). For more information and bookings call 4485-4600.

Aikido

Sat, Mon & Wed: From 6:30 p.m. till 8:00 p.m. Adults – QR 475 members and non- members. Ages 10-17 – QR 375 members and non- members. For more information and bookings call 4485-4600.

98 QH July/Aug 2013 sri.indd 98

6/27/13 9:59 AM

Sports INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA THE BAY CLUB FITNESS CLASSES Circuit Training

Activities & Clubs

Thurs: Widely regarded as the best allround form of group exercise. It allows each individual to work at oneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s own pace but in a group environment. This session is not for the faint-hearted; however, if you enjoy a tough workout in a friendly atmosphere with every session different from the last, then this is what youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve been looking for. All you need is a lot of enthusiasm and a sense of humour when it gets tough! Starts at 6:00 p.m., QR 30 members, QR 40 non-members.

3/15 Workout

Thurs: This class draws on three principal exercise components of cardiovascular aerobics: choreography, cardiovascular basic step choreography and shaping and toning work lasting 15 minutes each. From 4:00 p.m. till 5:00 p.m., QR 30 members, QR 50 non-members.

Body Shape

Sat: This class is designed to tone, shape and strengthen all body parts. Through a variety of progressive resistance exercises with an array of equipment, the targeted muscles are defined without adding bulk to them. From 4:00 p.m. till 5:00 p.m., QR 30 members, QR 50 non-members. For more information on all classes please call 4484-4852.

ER REGIST E IN sletter ONeeL kly 5 new for the W rhappening.com ta www.qa

Bike Riding

Sailing

Bowling

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

The Corniche Aspire Park

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

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

Royal Yachting Association Courses www.ryacourses-qatar.com

Swimming

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

Golf

Aqua Park 4490-5872 or aquaparkqa@gmail.com

Horse Riding

Khalifa Tennis & Squash Complex 4440-9666

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

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

Tennis & Squash

Walking

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

Ice-Skating

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

99 QH July/Aug 2013 sri.indd 99

6/27/13 9:59 AM

QH July/Aug 2013 sri.indd 100

6/27/13 9:59 AM

QH Sensations

RECOMMENDS

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

Ashlee - Kia Soul

ick! Editor’s P

Srimani

MANGO Bowling Bag For someone who carries a lot of things in her handbag, I found the perfect solution at MANGO: their patent bowling bag. It has two top carrying handles, a detachable long strap, internal zip pocket, top zip fastening and engraved Mango logo. But looks aside, the most important thing is the amount of space it has. There’s loads of room to pack your most important items without them being cluttered and is available at any MANGO store for QR 139. To check out their range of handbags online visit www.shop.mango.com/QA/mango.

After nearly a year of renting a car, I’ve finally committed and bought a Kia Soul. It’s a beautiful light green colour and the perfect cross-over vehicle for anyone making the transition from a sedan to an SUV-type car. A 2x4 wheel drive it’s still sturdy enough to take off-road and has a great safety rating with air-bags on all sides of the vehicle. Features include Bluetooth wireless technology and hands-free wireless steering-mounted controls, Microsoft Infotainment system and rear camera display. It can seat five people and is roomy with a big hatchback compartment for storing groceries or packing a cooler and some lawn chairs for that weekend camping trip. I absolutely love it and it drives like a dream –anything to make me feel a little safer on the roads here in Doha. Available from Kia Motors Qatar, starting from QR 52,434.

Jessie Samsung Galaxy S4 This little smart device makes your life richer, simpler, and more fun. As a real-life companion, the new Samsung GALAXY S4 helps capture those fun moments you want to remember, with each feature designed to simplify our daily lives. Now for a little bit of techno-jargon: the display is full HD with a 1920 x 1080 resolution, Android 4.2.2 jelly bean and quad core processor with 2GB ram. Available at any Samsung retailers in Doha for around QR 2,500.

Marlynne Make Up For Ever Summer is all about looking and feeling fresh but 45 degrees of heat will melt this freshness away. How to deal with this dilemma? It’s a good thing I found my absolute shield for this beauty woe, my pressed powder from Make Up For Ever Pro Finish. This lovely base will help regulate oiliness on the T-zone, keeps your face fresh and glowing and evens out skin tone! Grab yours now at the Make Up For Ever outlet at Royal Plaza Mall.

Chet Sizzling Hot Pot Every time I feel stressed, I have to bring my family to enjoy a meal at a restaurant. One of my top go-to places is Sizzling Hot Pot in the Holiday Villa Hotel, as it’s a one-stop spot serving all of family’s favourite dishes. My husband is a seafood-lover and he always orders the grilled seafood platter; my Mom is a salad-lover, my kids love pasta and I’m a chicken-eater and always order the chicken parmesan with extra sauce! The place exudes a great atmosphere and the pleasant smiles from the crew and the good food are enough to melt away the heaviness I am feeling throughout the week. For reservations call 4411-5225.

101 QH July/Aug 2013 sri.indd 101

6/27/13 9:59 AM

QH Sensations

A Big City Break

By Ashlee Starratt Principal photography by Jessie Palanca Additional images courtesy of the Renaissance Doha City Center

QH spent a lush weekend at the Renaissance Doha City Center to experience their Summer Locals Package. We give you all the details on this perfect metropolitan weekend escape!

The perfect weekend ‘stay-cation’ getaway!

here’s a certain vibe as you pull up to the Renaissance Doha City Center Hotel. Cars are bustling, bell-hops rushing and people scurry around on the move. It’s a commercial and social hub that has its pulse on the city. We’re here to experience their Summer Locals Package running throughout July and August which, at QR 595, is available seven days a week and includes a deluxe room, standard breakfast buffet for two at Crossroads Kitchen and a late checkout. It’s a pretty sweet deal and as I head inside to check in, that feeling of ‘Ahhhh….the weekend’s here,’ starts to sink in. For those not familiar with the Renaissance (shame on you!) they have two very distinct advantages in the market. First, their connection to City Center Mall is a boon for guests and locals alike. Being able to shop, take in a movie or go ice-skating mere minutes away is a major convenience for guests, while the hotel benefits from the foot traffic of hungry mall-goers seeking out what is the Renaissance’s second tick of the box: The West End. With a plethora of food and beverage outlets gracing its halls on the second and third floors of the hotel, it’s a prime location for folks who make it a go-to destination for lunch, dinner or drinks, regardless if they’re going shopping or checking in for the night.

Room With A View Speaking of checking in, as I get settled into my deluxe room with a view out over the Renaissance’s roof-top pool, I take in the space. It’s extremely large and airy, with a small foyer containing closet/storage space and mini-bar, leading into the main living area. There’s a fresh fruit platter on the dining table as a welcome offering and it’s not long before the doorbell rings with a staff member bearing a plate of gourmet chocolates. The room has a regal, baroque feel; one that evokes, (if you can stand a terrible pun here), the Renaissance period. The drapes are a heavy, rich vermillion, the ceilings high and vaulted, and the carpeting a plush, striped pile. The bed is massive, which is the first thing I plunk down on; there’s also a large dresser and TV console across the way – perfect for putting my feet up and flicking through the channels. The bathroom is also ornate with a pair of French doors, a big soaker tub, full dressing area and stand-alone shower. Another great perk of staying at the Renaissance is their staff. Always attentive and always smiling, it’s a stress-free experience getting what you need. I seem to be prone to forgetting my phone charger when I stay in hotels, but sure enough a quick call to the front desk and their staff was there in minutes with a spare one. Every time I needed any kind of amenity delivered to my room, be it a bucket of ice or a shaving kit, there was never a delay or an oversight.

The luxurious deluxe room with a view

I’m hungry and am looking forward to a leisurely dinner – which will be

102 QH July/Aug 2013 sri.indd 102

6/27/13 9:59 AM

Entrance to Ipanema Brazilian Churrascaria

in Crossroads Kitchen. It’s a Thursday, so it’s their Seafood Night and I’ve been saving up my appetite for most of the day. I’ve yet to have a bad experience in any of the Renaissance’s outlets – and I’ve tried them all, except Crossroads oddly enough. So it seems like tonight’s the night.

Dining Done Right Crossroads is small and cozy with a homey feel to it. The place has numerous live cooking stations which I love because you know what you’re eating is as fresh as can be. There’s a fresh seafood display on ice with local lobsters, mussels, oysters, giant prawns and king crab legs ready for the grill. They also have a carving station where a fragrant, whole hammour lies cooked to perfection and rubbed with herbs. I know it’s seafood night, but my favourite aspect about tonight’s buffet is the Thai curry station. Offering three different kinds of Thai curry bases – green (mild), yellow (medium) and red (hot), you can select the meat and veggies you’d like included and it all goes into the stir-fry pan before being doused in a bath of broth and served with steamed basmati rice. It’s amazing and the powerful sinus-clearing properties of the spicy red didn’t go unappreciated! The dinner service buffet also comes with several options for beverage packages to suit your needs but we go with the QR 285 freeflowing house beverage all-inclusive package. As the place begins to bustle with diners we sit back and dig in, enjoying the ambiance and the views of West Bay right outside the window. The service is excellent and we’re not disappointed. The staff are always close by to clear our empty plates and glasses, and hostess Putu who is from Bali, is one of the friendliest

employees I’ve run into, going the extra mile to chat with us and telling us a bit about her own background. After dinner we burn off some calories by walking through the mall to do some windowshopping. On the way back to our room we pass by Champions and I wistfully kick myself for missing their last Quiz Night. If you haven’t been to one of their Quiz Nights, it’s some of the most fun I’ve had out with friends in ages. Every second Monday of the month, Champions hosts the main event at 7:30 p.m.; bring five friends, sign up and test your knowledge on everything from sports, geography, music and pop culture. The top prize is QR 5,000, but if you put your name in the draw box when you sign up you’ll have the chance to be selected throughout the night to compete for other prizes and giveaways. I make a mental note to mark the next Quiz Night, June 10 on my calendar and head back to my room to chill for the rest of the evening.

Tables ready to serve Churrasco

Champions Sports Bar ir If you haven’t been to one of the st Quiz Nights, it’s some of the mo ages. fun I’ve had out with friends in

Get in on the action at Champions Sports Bar

103 QH July/Aug 2013 sri.indd 103

6/27/13 9:59 AM

QH Sensations Fridays At Ipanema If you’re staying at the Renaissance, one of the nicest things to do in the mornings is to get up early for a swim in their roof-top pool. The space is gorgeous and it’s usually pretty quiet. Nestled in between the towers of the Renaissance and its sister property the Courtyard by Marriott, you can float and gaze up at the sky, completely oblivious to the horns and bustle of West Bay surrounding you. In the evenings the space transforms into the Aqua Lounge – a hot pool-side bar that would feel right at home in the hills of L.A. After a quick dip, we head downstairs to Ipanema for their Rio Friday brunch. A year old now, Ipanema is the Renaissance’s newest F&B outlet and it’s been a hit from the start, being one of the first authentic Brazilian churrascarias in the city. The place is light, vibrant, colourful and packed with hungry Friday brunch-goers. We’re seated at a nice table by the window and take in our surroundings: there’s a new Brazilian band playing some upbeat Portuguese rhythms and it’s not long before the passadores start making their rounds with huge skewers full of crackling, mouth-watering varieties of meat. It’s a fun concept at Ipanema – when you’re hungry you flip the coaster by your plate over to the green side to indicate that you’re ready for more and when you’re full, or need a break, you flip it to the red. We order the free-flowing house beverage package for QR 320 and fill up on hot slices of lamb shank, roast beef, spice-rubbed chicken wings and the traditional Brazilian cut of slow-roasted picanha. To make sure we don’t collapse from the meat sweats, we round out our plates with a selection of offerings from their salad bar and cold station.

salad bar, with at least six different types of dressing, plus offerings of traditional Brazilian potato salad, caprese salad, smoked salmon, a cheese platter, fresh dates and apricots, tuna pasta salad and much more. And, as we’re tucking in our napkins, our server brings us even more hot sides to go with our cuts of meat. There’s traditional re-fried black beans, fried bananas, dirty rice (the ‘dirty’ part comes from the reddish colour imparted by the beans cooked in with it), and delicious wedges of tapioca that will make you forget you ever loved potatoes.

Quick Bites Deli

What sets the Friday Rio brunch apart from the rest isn’t just the quality of the food (have you tried the cinnamon-dusted, roast pineapple? Swoon!), and the concept of the restaurant: it’s the entertainment too. The staff organizes a surprise samba flashmob for diners every Friday that really gets the place pumping and let’s be honest: who doesn’t love a good flashmob? We linger over brunch until about 3:30 p.m., before going back to the room to pack up for the late checkout at 4:00 p.m. My stay at the Renaissance was just the quick city break I needed to pump up my weekend and it’s a place I will continue to come back to with friends and family.

Soak in the sun, poolside or make a splash at the rooftop Aqua Lounge.

Starting September 13, the Summer Locals Package will switch over to the Renaissance Weekend Package for QR 695, available Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays with valid Qatari I.D. An equally great deal, it includes a breakfast buffet for two at Crossroads Kitchen and late checkout. All children aged 7-12 years enjoy meals half price at Crossroads and Ipanema and children under age six dine free. n

Where the meat is delicious yet heavy, I love that all the side dish items are so fresh. There’s a huge

Renaissance Doha City Center Accommodation: Summer Locals Package: QR 595 (Until Sept 13) Renaissance Weekend Package: QR 695 (From Sept 14) Dining: Crossroads Kitchen Seafood Night: QR 225 with soft drinks QR 285 inclusive of house beverages QR 345 inclusive of one bottle of sparkling per person QR 545 inclusive of one bottle of French bubbly per person Ipanema Rio Friday Brunch: QR 250 with soft drinks QR 320 inclusive of traditional Brazilian house beverages QR 385 inclusive of one bottle of sparkling per person QR 585 inclusive of one bottle of French bubbly per person

Cross Road Restaurant

Reservations: Call 4419-5000 or visit www.renhotels.com or www.westenddoha.com

104 QH July/Aug 2013 sri.indd 104

6/27/13 9:59 AM

QH July/Aug 2013 sri.indd 105

6/27/13 9:59 AM

QH Sensations culture of this country. They stayed for five days at the desert camp near Sealine. Imagine artists in the desert sand, most of them from Europe, with no communications, no mobiles. The first day this one artist said “Oh my gosh how will I communicate with my family?” and I said “Just trust me. Give it one day then you will start to see the effect.” It was amazing, a very nice experience and our first time to do something like this. Even today they are emailing me; they’re very connected to the experience and it’s reflected in their paintings. The outcome was 44 pieces of artwork which are currently on display in the main lobby. We’re going to do our renovation soon so we are going to combine the two together, the art and the new look. QH: What activities does the Wyndham have planned for Ramadan?

Going

The Distance

By Ashlee Starratt Photography by Jessie Palanca

In a sea of hospitality players, the Wyndham Grand Regency Doha is moving ahead of the pack, setting itself apart through its unique community initiatives and commitment to excellence in customer service. QH had the chance to sit down with General Manager Mr. Ayman Lotfy to learn more. QH: You’ve been GM here since 2005, how has the Wyndham evolved under your leadership during this time? AL: The Wyndham brand is one of the leading world hotel chains and one of the largest global companies. During the period since the opening we’ve always focused on the small details for the maximum level of guest satisfaction. We received a lot of VIPs and this taught us the value of going the extra mile for service in hospitality – which we strongly believe in. QH: Congratulations on your recent Trip Advisor Award of Excellence win. In your opinion, what does the Wyndham brand stand for and how are you applying their philosophy to Doha? AL: Actually I think they’re the leading in the green initiative sector. We’re the only hotel to have an agreement with Qatar Green Building and we’ve had a couple of events with them and are following the book in terms of green initiatives. Wyndham is very keen in that area, they are very different. They also have a strong global network; they are everywhere in the world, with 16 different flags under one name. I think this is the strength.

QH: Tell us more about the green initiatives you’re undertaking. AL: We are doing all the recycling, because you know a lot places say ‘We are going green’ but they just use it as a media tool. But in our side we really believe it. We believe in this. We work as a team and we keep people involved from a lower level to a management level so they work hard and they like do all of this stuff. We have hundreds of things we are doing to go green. It affects our costs as well. We’ve reduced our electricity costs by 80% because we switched our lights to LED bulbs. So yeah, there is a huge benefit. QH: There’s a strong community-oriented vibe at Wyndham with a lot of cultural programs such as the 2013 Al Asmakh International Symposium on Fine Art that you’re part of. AL: That was very unique; we got 22 different artists from all around the world and we invited them to Doha for a week. We said we will not just be different. We didn’t want to just give them a huge space where they can paint in our banquet room. So we thought of something else and sent them out to experience the real

AL: Usually during Ramadan we are very connected to the community. We’ve been here for a long time and do a lot of outside catering, sometimes 1,000 meals in one day. We are very busy during the month with food and beverage, with all the Iftar preparations and corporate events on the go. We will also be renovating the hotel over Ramadan, which will take two months. The renovation will change our entire look. QH: What do you love most about your job? AL: When we’re dealing with the customer you only have one chance to be different. As a person, I like challenge in my life, the competition. The nature of my job is that you’re trying to satisfy people, you’re trying to do the maximum for them and you know when you travel in a different country you’ll find different tastes in hospitality. Like in Europe for example the business travelers they are always on the go, but when you go to Asia, you’ll find the people have this natural welcome hospitality. Here in Qatar, 98% of our guests are business travelers, so you want to give them more. So my enjoyment comes from giving these people the nice experience you need to leave an impression and the only way to do this is to always present ourselves with a very friendly staff so you feel at home. I like the nature of the job itself, it’s nice being a part of that community. QH: Looking ahead what is your five-year plan moving forward? AL: We are very lucky to have a very nice owner who always wants to be in the top, so this leads us to spend a lot of money on improvements. I’m always having space to spend money to improve and create. After five years of opening this hotel, we always want to be up-to-date and in good shape with something new to offer. I think in five years competition in this market will be very tough so you have to be different. If you don’t have these kinds of solid, good relations with your clients and colleagues a lot of new hotels offering a much more advanced product will be there in this market. So treat your client in a different way.n

For bookings and hotel information call 4434-3333 or visit www.wyndhamgrandregency.com.

106 QH July/Aug 2013 sri.indd 106

6/27/13 10:00 AM

QH July/Aug 2013 sri.indd 107

6/27/13 10:00 AM

Special Promotion

Alfardan Properties Strengthens Focus On Social Networking And Enhancing Tenants’ Experience

lfardan Properties sets a new benchmark of luxury in the real-estate industry in Qatar, as it focuses on exceeding the expectations of its high-end clientele by creating a social interactive atmosphere amongst them. In line with that, Alfardan Properties goes beyond fulfilling the tenants’ needs by taking a close look at the small details of their luxurious stay through their professional customer service team and creating a homely atmosphere with seasonal events conducted throughout the year. Over the years, Alfardan Properties consistently exceeded the satisfaction level of tenants by ensuring comfort and well-being through their stay in all its properties and actively engaging with tenants and communicating with them through a range of interactive initiatives such as neighbourhood community gatherings,

informative newsletters and competitions, among others. Moreover, the customer service team of Alfardan Properties is available round-the-clock to cater to all tenant requirements, underlying the company’s customer-centric approach. Muhibullah Mani, COO, Alfardan Properties, said: “The various private social events being organized are part of annual activities under Alfardan Properties’ social initiatives that encourage interaction and create a sense of belonging among the tenants where they can meet their neighbours and the Alfardan Properties team. We strive to create a homely atmosphere for the tenants as we understand that they are away from their families and friends and seek to have a familiar social experience at times. We therefore constantly strive to provide the best and unique experience for all residents not only through the wide range of luxurious

amenities and value-added services, but also through the warm and hospitable environment that we cultivate in our residential communities. We believe that this is a very important initiative that distinguishes Alfardan Properties as a truly innovative company; setting the bar for high-level standards in Qatar’s luxury real estate industry through a focus on the customeroriented experience.” Customers can communicate any requirement they have whether feedback on events or maintenance needs, or any request, through the Alfardan Properties’ 24-hour customer service desk who take every single customer service observation seriously and immediately push for the necessary satisfactory actions. Alfardan Properties has conducted a series of social activities for tenants, including the Festive Season Events which were held recently at One

108 QH July/Aug 2013 sri.indd 108

6/27/13 10:00 AM

Porto Arabia, Alfardan Gardens and Alfardan Towers. As part of its overall efforts to boost tenant relations and create a favourable social setting for the tenants, Alfardan Properties prepared special buffets in addition to games for children and a host of other fun-filled activities during the year-ending event. The unique and customized newsletter The Signature also takes part in adding value to the luxury lifestyle, as it shares the moments of joy and happiness the tenants experience, not to mention the exciting photos, articles and tips it provides. Established in 1990, Alfardan Properties has dominated Qatarâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s premium and luxury property segment for the past 20 years. Recognized as a brand synonymous with luxury and excellence, Alfardan Properties is part of the continuously expanding Alfardan Group of companies, Qatarâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most successful conglomerate over the past 50 years, known for its unyielding commitment to providing the Qatari market with the finest products and services. n

109 QH July/Aug 2013 sri.indd 109

6/27/13 10:00 AM

Special Promotion

Migato Opens Second Branch At Ezdan Mall A

l Siddiqi Retail has opened Migatoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s second branch in Ezdan Mall after the success of the branch in Landmark Mall, Migato is a Greek brand established in 1983 with more than 120 retail shops all over the world. Migato offers a variety of fashionable and trendy shoes at affordable prices.

Each Migato outlet promises unparalleled service, absolute customer satisfaction and a true fashion shopping experience. n

Photo Credit: Jessie Palanc

After Migatoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s success in Europe, it reached out to the MENA region through Al Siddiqi Retail, with branches in Qatar and Egypt and soon-to-open branches in Kuwait and Oman. More than 120 retail shops have been established in various prime locations that are all found in the heart of commercial traffic.

Season after season the company, which is headquartered in Athens, works endlessly to provide a wide variety of styles to satisfy the fashion demands of its loyal customers. From shoes to bags, belts, and other accessories, Migato continues to extend its product line, covering all aspects of the footwear and accessory spectrum.

110 QH July/Aug 2013 sri.indd 110

6/27/13 10:00 AM

U.S. Polo Expands Outlets In Qatar T

he U.S. Polo Assn. brand carries clothing for men, women and children, as well as accessories, luggage, watches, shoes, home furnishings and more. Now you can find their products at Ezdan and Lagoona Malls in Qatar. The U.S. Polo Assn. brand is managed by USPA Properties, a wholly-owned subsidiary of the United States Polo Association, the non-profit governing body for the sport of polo in the United States since 1980. Today their products are sold through their licensing program in over 135 countries, at independent retail stores, department stores, and U.S. Polo Assn. brand flagship stores. n

111 QH July/Aug 2013 sri.indd 111

6/27/13 10:00 AM

QH Sensations Listings W DOHA Bliss Spa

RECOMMENDS

Beat the heat this summer and achieve a higher state of happy with the spectacular Bliss Summer Deal that includes an Elemis Exotic Lime & Ginger ody scrub, Elemis express facial and Elemis deep tissue treatment. QR 700 for an hour and a half.

New Waters Therapy Showerheads

THE GRAND HYATT Jaula Spa &Club

Because your face is the reflection of your health, they will give you their 30-minute express facial treatment complementary for every 90-minute massage you book. The Express treatment will instantly moisturize your face and restore its glow. For more information call 4448-1060/1061.

THE RITZ-CARLTON Signature Massage

A tension-relieving massage, featuring a signature combination of personalized Ritz-Carlton massage techniques (Pressure Point, Swedish and Deep Tissue) that works deep into tense and tired muscles. This massage will ease your stressed and sore spots and improve circulation. Excellent for those with hectic lifestyles as well – the ultimate relief and relaxation. 60-minutes, QR 480. Buy 5 and get one free. Spend QR 500 on spa treatments and get free access to swimming pools.

THE ST. REGIS DOHA Remède Spa

Book any treatment and get a 50% discount voucher for your next treatment with their special Ramadan offer. (Offer does not include packages, voucher valid only for the month of Ramadan). For more information call 4446-0300 or email remedespa.doha@stregis.com.

The Ultimate Summer Escape!

The St. Regis Doha’s Olympic-size pool is reserved for in-house guests, but they do offer a special spot for people who would like the ultimate escape without staying at the hotel: private air-conditioned cabanas that have their own living room, bathroom, private chilled Jacuzzis and garden. Guests booking a private cabana also have use of the Olympic pool and private beach. Cabana Rental Rate: Sun-Thurs: QR 2,000 for up to 8 people, Fri-Sat: QR 3,000 for up to 8 people. Minimum food and beverage spend of QR 1,000 per cabana. Water, fruit, newspapers and magazines provided. Cabanas available from 9:00 a.m. till 7:00 p.m.

THE DIPLOMATIC CLUB Private Membership

Special promotion for July-August. Whether it’s to unwind or get in a workout, the Diplomatic Club offers a wide range of facilities to its members. Membership gives free access to all the club facilities including the state of the art gym, workout studio, squash court, tennis court, private beach, swimming pool and kids club. In addition, membership benefits include access to the member’s lounge, a 25% discount in all their dining options, discounts on spa treatments, personal training, squash, tennis and swimming lessons, aerobic classes and a 20% discount for their beauty center and men’s salon. PRICES Single: QR 9,000 (18 years old and above) Couple: QR 14,000 Family: QR 16,000 (couple + up to 3 children under 17 years old) SUMMER RATES Keep fit, stay active, meet friends or simply relax. Treat yourself and your loved ones this summer with a Diplomatic Club membership.

Bliss is excited to introduce its new Waters Therapy Showerheads, the latest ‘must have’ that’s revolutionizing the shower scene, with their water purification system that not only removes sand and rust residue, but it also stops any chlorine getting through. It is the first spa to introduce this revitalizing experience to Doha and offers guests the option to choose from a lemon or lavender-scented shower experience which perfectly complements Bliss® Spa’s Lemon and Sage Body Wash to unwind like never before. Get your Waters Therapy Showerhead experience for QR 388. For more information call 4453-5555 or visit www.whoteldoha.com/en/bliss-spa-doha.

WEST END RENAISSANCE DOHA CITY CENTER Summer At Saray Spa

July: 55-minute contouring body wrap and 60 minute personal training session for QR 500 August: 55-minute Arabic coffee awakener and 60-minute yoga session for QR 455 Open from 9:00 a.m. till 10:00 p.m. For appointments call 4419-6090 or visit www.westenddoha.com/saray.

Vitality Zone

July: Ladies special three-month membership for QR 3,000 August: Buy a three-month membership (single or couple) and receive one month free. For more information call 4419-5517 or visit www.westenddoha.com/vitality.

Saray Spa & Jean Louis David Summer Packages For Perfect Skin July: Back massage, manicure, pedicure and blow-dry reduced to QR 452. August: Body scrub, spa manicure and spa pedicure reduced to QR 512. For appointments call 4419-6090.

Private Membership - THE DIPLOMATIC CLUB Membership Type

Annual Rates

3 Months Rates

1 Month Rates

Single

QR /-9,000

QR /-3,000

QR /-1,750

Couple

QR /-14,000

QR /- 4,500

QR /-3,000

Family

QR /-16,000

QR /-5,500

QR /-3,750

QR /-750

QR /-300

( max. 3 kids under 17 years old) Additional Child ( 2 – 17 yrs)

QR /-2,000

112 QH July/Aug 2013 sri.indd 112

6/27/13 3:40 PM

QH Sensations Experience destinations g in n e p p a h ic st some Escaping to fanta nders. Here are o w s e o d d rl o w around the

Baalbeck International Festival July through August: Lebanon

Established in 1956, the Baalbeck International Festival designates itself as the oldest and most renowned cultural event in the Middle East, hosting a wealth of world talent annually. Musicians, composers, singers and dancers from across Lebanon and the globe, descend upon Baalbeck during the summer in a non-stop bid for cultural enlightenment. The New York Philharmonic Orchestra, Ella Fitzgerald, Joan Baez and Rudolf Nureyev and the Royal Ballet have all been on the bill over the course of the festival’s duration. Want to know what’s in store for 2013? Visit www.baalbeck.org.lb and become a patron of the arts.

British Open Championship July 18-21: U.K.

One of the oldest golf courses in the world, the links at Muirfield will play host to the top names in the sport this summer as golf fanatics watch their favourite players live at the hole. Can 2012 South African champion Ernie Els hold onto to the coveted Claret Jug trophy? Spectators who book tickets early can find out, with a range of choice spots on the green for prime viewing. Go to www.theopen.com and take a swing.

La Tomatina Aug 29: Spain

White is not a colour you want to wear if you’re traveling to Bujol, Spain for La Tomatina this summer. Or, is it? After all, the ensuing stains and mess at this, the world’s largest tomatothrowing festival, are part and parcel of the fun! Every year, thousands of festival-goers get down and dirty in the heart of Valencia, hurling ripe, red fruits at one another since 1945 when a group of angry young men threw tomatoes from a local vegetable stand at parade-goers, protesting their exclusion from the festivities. Now, tomato-throwing has become a celebration in its own right. Find out more at www.tomatina.es.

Calgary Stampede July 5-14: Canada

Abu Dhabi International Chess Festival Aug 12-21: U.A.E.

Put your thinking caps on and buckle them tight if you want to take part in the Abu Dhabi International Chess Festival. World chess masters and lovers of the game go head-to-head in the ultimate display of strategy and skill. Meet other players, develop your chess intellect and share techniques of game-play at this brainy meeting of the minds. Get your knights in a row and visit www.abudhabichess.com to save your spot on the board.

Dubbed ‘The Greatest Outdoor Show On Earth’, every summer Canucks and cowpokes from all over the Western hemisphere rally together for ten days of bull-riding, bucking broncos, music, food and festivities against the backdrop of the Rocky Mountains in Calgary, Alberta. This year’s music head-liners are The Dixie Chicks, so pony up to this massive rodeo and enjoy the best in Canadian hospitality with events such as the rangeland derby, grandstand show and the legendary Calgary Stampede parade. Hitch your wagon to www.cs.calgarystampede.com and get ready for a wild ride!

113 QH July/Aug 2013 sri.indd 113

6/27/13 10:00 AM

Bilal Pearl Suites - DPS - July 2013.pdf

6/16/13

10:49 AM

CMY

QH July/Aug 2013 sri.indd 114

6/27/13 10:00 AM

QH July/Aug 2013 sri.indd 115

6/27/13 10:00 AM

QH Sensations Modern décor meets walletfriendly economy inYotel’s premium cabin

The New Kids

On The Block By John Hunt

There’s no doubt that Doha is a hotelier’s dream. And with the World Cup looming the market will continue to expand in an effort to accommodate the influx of population. We look at three international ‘budget’ hotel chains that could help fill that gap should they set up shop in Qatar, giving you the best bang for your buck.

roadly speaking, hotel accommodation in Qatar, specifically Doha, falls into two categories: luxury, and ‘the rest’. Opulent properties like Kempinski and The Four Seasons poke into the cloudless sky while in the less fashionable parts of town there’s a hodge-podge collection of cheap hotels of variable quality. There is not only a gap in the market for better branded, cheaper or ‘deluxe’ hotels, but there’s also an increasing demand for rooms. This demand is only going to escalate as Qatar seeks to become a tourist destination of note, and the small matter of the 2022 World Cup, an event that is going to require thousands, perhaps tens of thousands of new rooms, for the anticipated influx of football fans from all over the globe. We anticipate that a significant percentage of these required rooms are going to be found in

heavily-branded ‘mid-market’ hotels: relatively cheap, well-known names that are thematically and stylishly superior to what is currently available. Right now there’s a budget hotel presence ‘next door’ in Dubai, in the shape of ‘easyHotel’ (part of the easyGroup of companies, best known for its easyJet airline) which has a property at Jebel Ali. easyHotel is but one example, but there are a raft of other names with bigger stables and/ or expansionist policies in the Middle East in general and Qatar in particular. QH sampled a trio of upcoming names in the budget/deluxe hotel sector with their eyes on the local market based on two criteria: which brands are coming and what are you getting for your money?

First up was Motel One, a German chain which is ubiquitous in its homeland but has expanded into Austria and the UK. Next stop Doha? They said little when asked, but this is a chain that clearly has a growth agenda and also offers outstanding value for money. I recently stayed in one of their several properties in Munich, Germany. Motel One has a chain-wide dedication to style, but beneath the style lies substance, with cavernous receptions (with free Wi-Fi), decent-sized and well-appointed rooms, rain showers in modestly-sized bathrooms but, best of all, an unlimited buffet breakfast included. For this writer, a decent breakfast is vital prior to a day of pounding the streets. The price for this ‘comparative luxury’ is from the equivalent of QR 300/night, with prices in the Middle East likely to be keener still.

116 QH July/Aug 2013 sri.indd 116

6/27/13 10:00 AM

Tune is another player on the bu dget-hotel scen Photo Credit: e that’s making Chris MacKenz ie Photography waves.

Budget chain Motel One mixes upsc

ale charm with economic room rates

One of Yote

l’s smaller,

sleek suite

age galley ar

Yotel’s space-

Next was Tune Hotel in Edinburgh, Scotland – a Malaysian-owned chain with a heavy presence in Asia. Now we were really going back to basics with the possibility of occupying an internal room with no windows. The price reflects this, with rooms costing from just QR 125/night (more if you want a window!). However, if you want to use the television, Wi-Fi, even the hairdryer and use of a towel then you’ll pay extra. Not much, I grant you, with the ‘comfort package’ (providing all of the above) coming in at an extra QR 40/night. While this is as ‘budget’ as you can get, the hotel is bright and uniform while being comfortable and expressive in its brand. Perhaps the biggest indicator that you are at the budget end of the spectrum comes in the hotel’s food and beverage offerings: there aren’t any.

Again, when asked about plans for Qatar, Tune Hotels was very tight-lipped. It was interesting to note that there was no denial, however. Reading between the lines, in my opinion, they’re on their way. Lastly, we sampled Yotel at Amsterdam’s Schiphol Airport. Yotel has two products, a ‘Japanese-style’ cabin hotel for airports (plans, perhaps for the new Doha International Airport?) and a standard ‘city’ hotel similar to the products mentioned above (at a similar price to Motel One). Yotel were more forthcoming when asked about their plans for Qatar, commenting: “The Yotel brand is committed to expanding both its ‘airport’ and ‘city’ concepts. We are looking at key markets including the Middle East. We feel that the Yotel brand would be a great addition to the hospitality landscape and offers guests an affordable luxury experience.” Overall, Yotel

was excellent in all categories, if a little on the compact side, though the ‘city’ product will be more spacious. As shown above, a lot of budget/deluxe companies are very coy about their plans for Doha. That’s their prerogative. What can be said with a degree of certainty verging on fact is that within a few years’ time there will be a slew of strongly-branded budget hotels peppering the Qatari capital. Increasingly, people (especially tourists) want more for less and, at the moment, the Doha hotel scene isn’t really providing it. People want a brand with style and presence at an attractive price. The gap exists, and market forces will see that it is filled. You can (Yotel aside) tell us nothing if you wish, but discussions between overseas operators and locals are taking place as I type this, you can count on it. n

117 QH July/Aug 2013 sri.indd 117

6/27/13 10:00 AM

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

NAME: Abdulaziz Al Mohad STORE SECTION: Literature

TIME AT VIRGIN: 1 year

Best Part of My Job:“Reading books. Before, I was not actually a book reader but I learned a lot from the book section and I now explain to the customers what each book is about.” C

Vertigo Ahmed Mourad This political thriller set in Cairo examines the underbelly of modern Egypt’s seedy nightlife scene as a photographer witnesses his friend murdered in a fight between rival businessmen. Gritty and tense, the novel spins a web of deception and intrigue that will keep you hooked until the last page. Retail price: QR 87.

The Corsair Abdulaziz Al-Mahmoud Qatari author Abdulaziz Al-Mahmoud has woven a tale of kinship and betrayal set on the high seas. As political maneuvering threatens the trade routes in the Gulf waters, enter Arabian corsair Erhama bin Jaber, whose band of pirates set the British plans asunder amidst a volatile geopolitical landscape. Retail price: QR 60.

CMY

The Food Of Spain: Don’t Be Sad A Celebration Â’id al-Qarni Claudia Roden This ground-breaking book is a refreshing Fancy yourself a dynamo in the kitchen? Get in some practice with this Mediterranean gourmet guide, taking foodies on a regional tasting tour of Spain. With a range of mouth-watering traditional recipes – and some with a modern twist, this is one cookbook that will be well-loved and long-used. Retail price: QR 81.

eye-opener for anyone who has ever wanted to learn more about Islam and is an absolute must-read for non-Muslim expats in the region, though its positive message makes it an important tome for all people. Examining the ways in which we can turn sadness into happiness and negativity into positivity with teachings and practices that are rooted in Islam. Retail price: QR 59.

The Timekeeper Mitch Albom A compelling novel, The Timekeeper tells the story of the first man in the universe to keep track of the minutes and hours, effectively becoming Father Time. Banished to a cave for all eternity as punishment for trying to measure the gift of time, he eventually gains his freedom, returning to modern-day Earth to help two people whose time is running out. Retail price: QR 106

118 QH July/Aug 2013 sri.indd 118

6/27/13 10:01 AM

CHOWKING ad.pdf

6/15/13

2:19 PM

CMY

QH July/Aug 2013 sri.indd 119

6/27/13 10:01 AM

Spotlight On Movies

TOP

These fab films will keep you going until the fall!

300: Rise of an Empire

Grown Ups 2 Comedy After moving his family back to his hometown to be with his friends and their kids, Lenny (Adam Sandler), finds out that between old bullies, new bullies, schizo bus drivers, crazy cops on skis and 400 costumed party crashers, sometimes crazy follows you. Stars: Adam Sandler, Kevin James, Chris Rock, David Spade QH Fun Fact: This is Adam Sandler’s first sequel that he’s ever made, however Rob Schneider will not appear in the newest installment due to scheduling conflicts.

The Conjuring Horror | Thriller Paranormal investigators Ed and Lorraine Warren work to help a family terrorized by a dark presence in their farmhouse. Forced to confront a powerful entity, the Warrens find themselves caught in the most terrifying case of their lives. Stars: Vera Farmiga, Patrick Wilson, Lili Taylor QH Fun Fact: Based on true people, Ed and Lorraine Warren are real-life paranormal investigators who have worked on such renowned cases as the Amityville haunting.

The Mortal Instruments: City Of Bones Action | Adventure | Drama When her mom is attacked and taken from their home in New York City by a demon, a seemingly ordinary teenage girl, Clary Fray, finds out truths about her past and bloodline on her quest to get her back that changes her entire life. Stars: Lily Collins, Jamie Campbell Bower, Robert Sheehan QH Fun Fact: The film is the first in a series based on author Cassandra Clare’s six-part epic.

Action | Drama The Greek general Themistocles battles an invading army of Persians under the mortal-turned-god, Xerxes. Stars: Eva Green, Rodrigo Santoro, Sullivan Stapleton QH Fun Fact: The original script included King Leonidas, but his character was later cut out as Gerard Butler wasn’t interested in reprising the role, stating that it “Wasn’t really [his] thing.”

Turbo Animation A freak accident might just help an everyday garden snail achieve his biggest dream: winning the Indy 500. Stars: Ryan Reynolds, Paul Giamatti, Maya Rudolph QH Fun Fact: Throughout production a real-life, fullscale Indy 500 car was parked in the Dreamworks studio for inspiration to artists and animators.

120 QH July/Aug 2013 sri.indd 120

6/27/13 10:01 AM

QH July/Aug 2013 sri.indd 121

6/27/13 10:01 AM

QH Sensations

The Dish on Qatar By Tasbih Amin

Ramadan is here to stay for the next month, so we thought it would be fun to get familiar with all its traditions and practices. So, read on for our Ramadan fun facts! Ramadan Kareem!

122 QH July/Aug 2013 sri.indd 122

6/27/13 10:01 AM

The month of Ramadan begins and ends on different days every year. For example, in 2009, Ramadan began mid-August and ended midSeptember. This year, Ramadan is one month earlier, starting in the beginning of July and ending by August. The reason why is because Muslims use the lunar calendar and lunar months are shorter than the ones in the solar calendar because it’s determined by the sighting of the new moon at the beginning of every month. For this reason, Ramadan starts 11 days earlier each year according to the solar calendar.

One of the long-lived and common traditions that many Muslims follow during this month is breaking their fast with dates. There are a couple of reasons why Muslims do that. First, it was one of Prophet Muhammad’s (p.b.u.h) habits, usually called Sunna, and Muslims love to follow these habits or Sunnas to relate to the prophet. Second, dates are ideal to break the fast because they’re both light and full of sugar, which gives energy needed at the end of a long day. After breaking fast with dates and water, men go to the mosque to perform Maghreb (sunset) prayer and after that the whole family comes together for a full meal.

The 27th day of Ramadan is the most important day of the month, where Muslims celebrate Laylat-al-Qadr or the Night of Destiny. It is believed that on this night, the Prophet (p.b.u.h) first received the revelations of the Holy Qur’an, and it’s also believed that on this night, God determines the course of the world for the following year. According to the Quran, Laylat-al-Qadr is a blessed night that is “better than a thousand months.” For this reason, Muslims stay up praying and worshiping God all night long.

One of the celebrations during this month that’s common in Gulf countries is garangao. It takes place on the 14th day of Ramadan and is intended to reward children for going through half of the month fasting. On this evening, children break their fast together, usually with their friends and cousins, and dress up in their traditional clothing. Each child receives a cotton bag that they wear loosely around their necks, and just like trick-or-treating; the children go from door to door asking for candy. They’re usually given a mix of sweets, nuts and dried fruits from a huge basket made of palm fronds called ‘garangao’, thus the name of the holiday. Children roam the streets all night long, while singing the famous Garangao song.

After fasting for a whole month, Muslim celebrate Eid Al-Fitr, a three-day celebration that is one of the major holidays in Islam. People, both men and women, head to the Mosque after dawn and perform Salat El Eid, which is a specific prayer for this day. Prior to the prayer, people, mostly those who are financially capable, give charity known as Zakat El-Fitr which is distributed among needy families, so they can enjoy the Eid as well. Just like any holiday, families celebrate together, exchange gifts and decorate their homes. n

123 QH July/Aug 2013 sri.indd 123

6/27/13 10:01 AM

It Happened

Moona Masri-Whitice, Executive Director of the Art of Business smiles with AHB Group Chairman Mr. Ahmed Hassan Bilal

QHâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Jorge Granda and Ashlee Starratt present contest winner Karen Campbell (centre) with tickets to the final performance of STOMP

Mr. Ifteqar Ahmed, AHB Group General Manager smiles with some ticket-holders

Contest winner Karen poses backstage with the STOMP cast and the QH team

STOMP SHOW Qatar National Convention Center June 6-8, 2013

STOMPâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s smash-your-eardrums finale

124 QH July/Aug 2013 sri.indd 124

6/27/13 10:02 AM

Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll always have a friend in Genie and Aladdin!

Disney On Ice Qatar National Convention Center June 13-16, 2013

Dory and Nemo keep on swimming

Belle and Lumiere go for a waltz on ice

125 QH July/Aug 2013 sri.indd 125

6/27/13 10:02 AM

It Happened

The Richard Johnson Quartet featuring Brianna Thomson open the gala

Left: Ruwaida Abela from the Mövenpick Hotel Doha

QH’s Executive Director Moona Masri-Whitice gets a birthday surprise!

QH 4th Edition Dining Guide Launch Party The St. Regis Doha June 13, 2013

Centre-Right: Qatar TV’s Nicki and Aziz

Left: Sara Chakri from the Sheraton Doha

Three cheers for the QH and ABODE teams!

Photo Credits: Amara Photos and Jessie Palanca

Dancing the night away in 1920s flapper-style

126 QH July/Aug 2013 sri.indd 126

6/27/13 10:03 AM

Thai Food Festival Wyndham Grand Regency April 23, 2013 L-R: Wyndham Grand Regency GM Mr. Ayman Lotfy and Thai Ambassador H.E. Mr. Panyarak Poolthup

Peruvian Ambassador H.E. Mr. Julio Florian smiles with the Sheraton Doha team

Photo Credits: Sanjaya Munindradasa

Peruvian Week At Latino The Sheraton Doha April 9, 2013

The Colombian band brings some Latin heat to the evening

127 QH July/Aug 2013 sri.indd 127

6/27/13 10:03 AM

It Happened

Aspire Zone Foundation’s Walk More... Walk in malls Al Khor & Hyatt Plaza Malls,

Participants and mall-goers can even get their blood pressure checked for free as part of a push to be active and stay healthy

June 22, 2013

Le Festival La Cigale Hotel June 6, 2013

QH’s Jorge Granda, La Cigale’s Hala Hayek (centre) and Helen from Marhaba

128 QH July/Aug 2013 sri.indd 128

6/27/13 10:03 AM

QSL Corporate Futsal Championship City Center Mall April 26-27, 2013

City Centerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ice rink is transformed into a football pitch

South Africa World Cup Legacy Exhibition The St. Regis Doha May 26, 2013

Touring the many stalls featuring South African traditional products and dishes

129 QH July/Aug 2013 sri.indd 129

6/27/13 10:03 AM

It Happened

German Ambassador H.E. Ms. Angelika Renate Storz-Chakarji addresses the gathering

4th German Mayball The Hilton Doha May 31, 2013

kids cooking class The St. Regis Doha June 5, 2013

The St. Regisâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Kaarin Pfeffer assists some young chefs

Hats off to a delicious mission accomplished with Opal by Gordon Ramsay Head Chef Elias Gemayel (centre)

130 QH July/Aug 2013 sri.indd 130

6/27/13 10:03 AM

QH July/Aug 2013 sri.indd 131

6/27/13 10:03 AM

Phone Directory Al Gassar Resort 4424-4881 Al Mourjan Restaurants 4483-4423 4467-7731 Biella Crowne Plaza The Business Park 4408-7582 Doha Marriott Hotel 4429-8888 4494-8888 Four Seasons 4448-1234 Grand Hyatt 4408-4220 Holiday Villa 4423-3333 Hilton Doha InterContinental 4484-4444 InterContinental Doha The City 4015-8888 Kempinski Residences & Suites 4405-3333 4429-1111 Mövenpick Hotel 4496-6115 Mövenpick Tower & Suites Nando’s City Center Mall 4493-0785 4402-3333 Oryx Rotana Johnny Rockets 4455 2792 Al Emadi Complex 4460 4210 Hyatt Plaza Renaissance Doha City Center 4419-5000 Sealine Beach Resort 4476-5299 4485-4444 Sheraton Doha Bert’s Cafe` 4495-3876 4446-0000 St. Regis Doha 4484-7444 The Diplomatic Club W Doha Hotel & Residences 4453-5021 4434-3333 Wyndham Grand Regency Red Velvet 4408 0700 4476 5299 Sealine Beach Resort 4428 8888 La Cigale Grand Heritage Doha Hotel 4445 5555 and Spa

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

Ahmed Hassan Bilal Group

Health / Beauty

Hotels / Restaurants

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

Hospitals/Emergency

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

4493-4433 4483-0989

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

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

Ambulance, Police & Fire Department Doha Clinic Hospital

4434-3152 4441-1888 4496-6410

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

Real Estate Ahmed Hassan Bilal 4442-8877 Trad. & Cont. Co. www.ahbqatar.com Interior Forum Design 4456-8716 Restaurants Chowking Salwa Road 4437-1212 4431-4411 Chowking Al Saad St. Chowking Al Khor 4411-8816/ 4411-8817 Chowking Mamoura 4486-6077 Sizzling Hot Pot 4411-5225/ 4411-5335 Publications ABODE/QH Magazines 4427-8416

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

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

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

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

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

Websites

4438-4333

Emergency Hotline 4435-5999

Pediatric Emergency

Al Ahli Hospital

4489-8000

Qatar Foundation for Child &

4439-2948

Hamad General Hospital

4439-2222

Woman Protection Hotline 4466-6671 / 72

Rumailah Hospital

4439-3333

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

132 QH July/Aug 2013 sri.indd 132

6/27/13 10:03 AM