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TABLE OF CONTENTS
pg 16 Arnie On Top: Inside Terminator Genisys
July 2015 EVERY ISSUE 5 6
Editor-In-Chief's Letter
QH's Editor-in-Chief tells you what's happening this month
ENTERTAINMENT 11
Top Picks
27
Top Picks
12
Sesame Sing-Along
28
Qajar Women: Beauty And Moustaches
QH Speaks
The best of our monthly social media,
plus the Hit-Or-Miss List
8
The QH Grab-Bag
92
It Happened
Our monthly prize corner for your chance to win
14
16
QH’s photo gallery of the latest happening events in Doha
100 Phone Directory
Need-to-know phone numbers
FOLLOW US ON TWITTER @qatarhappening
ARTS & CULTURE
20
The cast of the hit show Sesame Street dance their way into QNCC in the new Elmo Makes Music
Desert Playground
We hit the dunes for a weekend of outdoor luxury at the Regency Sealine Desert Camp
Arnie On Top
He's baaaack! We go on-on-one with Arnold Schwarzeneggar in the new Terminator Genisys
The latest exhibit at MIA explores the aesthetics of beauty in 18th century Iran
30
Tales On Canvas
32
Arts & Culture Listings
Find out everything that’s going on this month
Virgin Recommends
The best monthly entertainment picks from the Megastore
22
Spotlight On Movies
24
Entertainment Listings
Our top five must-see films of the month
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 QH July 2015 - FINAL.indd 3
Local artist Amal Al Aethem's vibrant artworks tell a story of the Khaleeji experience
CHECK OUT www.qatarhappening.com for the latest information
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TABLE OF CONTENTS COMMUNITY 35 36
Top Picks Traditions Of Eid
We learn how the Feast of the Breaking of the Fast is celebrated among families
40
The Pearl Of Networking
42
Is Your Child Ready For Overnight Camping?
How the Qatar Professional Women's Network is building cultural bridges – and careers
How to prepare your little ones for their first sleep-away adventure
44
Community Listings
Find out everything that’s going on this month
pg 36 FOOD & DINING
Traditions Of Eid
SPORTS
QH SENSATIONS
47
Top Picks
69
Top Picks
81
Top Picks
48
A Hidden Gem
70
The Journey Begins (Again)
82
Sensory Serenity
84
Where East Meets West
86
The Floating City
88
Top-Down, Roots Up
90
The Dish On Qatar
Souq Waqif's Al Shurfa Arabic Lounge offers up great lunchtime fare – and an even better view!
50
The Spice Route
52
Chef Marco's Table
56
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The Radisson Blu's Bombay Balti is your guide to the bold flavours of India It's a fisherman's feast with some fresh Canadian lobster to liven up traditional Italian rigatoni
What new head coach José Daniel Carreño's appointment means for Qatar's national team
72
Survive the heat, healthily, with our pointers from the experts at Evolve
76
Food & Dining Listings
Find out everything that’s going on this month
Train Wherever, Whenever
Absolute Health & Fitness' new Online PT program will step up your training game
A Taste Of Eid
Celebrate Eid Al Fitr at the city's most lavish brunches – we've got your complete round-up
Summer: The Wellnes Way
78
Sports Listings
Find out everything that’s going on this month
Why the Six Senses Spa at the Sharq Village still reigns supreme when it comes to pampering We explore the beautiful chaos that is Hong Kong Venice may be sinking but it's ancient waterways still hold their secret charm Dissecting Qatar's food revolution with Holistic Health Coach Nicole Van Hattem Our top tips to beat the heat, stay cool and make the most of the long, hot summer
Have Your Say: Feedback and comments are always welcome. Please forward letters to the editor: Email: editor@qatarhappening.com info@qatarhappening.com jorge@qatarhappening.com
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Call Details: Inquiries: Marketing: Fax:
+974 4427 8416 +974 5584 4905 +974 4427 8415
Postal Address: P.O. Box 7848 , Doha, Qatar
6/24/15 9:38 AM
From The Desk Of The Editor-In-Chief
On The Cover?
QH is ready to make a splash with our summer issue! by Photo credit: Conceptualized Lindsey Steenkamp
About Us QH is your voice and your guide for all things fun, funky and happening in Qatar! Send us your feedback to editor@qatarhappening.com.
Dear friends, It’s a joy to wish all of you Eid Mubarak in advance, and my hope that this Ramadan season has been one of celebration and fulfillment for each of our readers. It’s not over yet though, and we’re here with our July issue to help you make the most of the last few weeks of the Holy Month and then onwards into the summer. Like always, the traditions of Eid come foremost to mind at this time. The celebration marking the end of the fasting period of Ramadan is one that resonates through every Muslim household. It’s a time for family, of joy and for the delightful delicacies and sweet treats of the season. In Food & Dining this month we’re proud to bring you the best selection of Eid brunches from across the city. From fivestar hotels, stand-alone restaurants, or simply the comfort of your own dining table – wherever you choose to celebrate, we hope the memories you make will be lasting. Speaking of food and nourishment, as Qatar continues to work towards its goal of a healthy, active nation this month’s Sensations section offers an insightful introduction to its new National Nutrition Policy. Speaking to Holistic Health Coach Nicole Van Hattem we learn about the food revolution that’s slowly but surely affecting the choices we make from farm to table. To wrap up, in the world of sports Qatar has had some major recruitments in football since June. The Al Sadd Sports Club welcomed star FC Barcelona mid-fielder Xavi Hernández to their roster, while the Qatar Football Association opened its doors to new head coach José Daniel Carreño – the legend from Uruguay. We take a closer look at what his appointment means for the development of Qatar’s national team in our Sports pages this issue. Whether you’re remaining in Doha to battle the heat this summer, or charting a course from Hamad International Airport to destinations unknown, we hope you’ll bring your copy of Qatar Happening along for the ride. Thank you for making us a part of your lives,
Publisher: The Art of Business Chairman: Ahmed Hassan Bilal Editor-in-Chief: Nasser Ahmed Hassan Bilal Editor: Ashlee Starratt Lead Designer / Brand Manager: Zahi Srour Photographer: Jessie Palanca Sales & Communications Manager: Jorge Granda Sales & Marketing Manager: Marisela Paesano New Media Manager: Serah Mary Sampath Web Coordinator: Imran Khan Interns: Aisha Javaid Administrative & Marketing Coordinator: Marisol Vinculada Distribution & Accounts: Lanie Fillo-Pana Contributors: Shahmim Akram, Amal Al Aethem, Emily Alp,
Sarah Al Motairi, Joe Agdeppa, Amy Bassett, Jacqueline Bodnar, Diana Farid, Eleanor Graff, John Hunt, Jan Janssen – Viva Press, Mark Leppard, Jonny Parr, Lynsey Riach, Flavio Rodriguez, Lindsey Steenkamp
QATAR HAPPENING (QH) is published 12 times a year by The Art of Business, Doha, Qatar, an associate of Ahmed Hassan Bilal Group. The information contained in QATAR HAPPENING (QH) is correct at the time of printing. Details may change at any time without liability on the part of The Art of Business. Readers are advised to confirm details with the event organizers. All rights reserved 2011, The Art of Business. Reproduction in part or in full is strictly prohibited. QATAR HAPPENING (QH) assumes no responsibility for content of advertisements.
Nasser Ahmed Hassan Bilal
QATAR HAPPENING (QH) retails for QR 10. Bulk subscriptions are available for QR 5 each, for orders over 50.
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SPEAKS
QH Our ‘hot-or-not’ picks of the month, social media snippets, plus our Editor’s corner.
The Hit-Or-Miss List
Latin Love Since opening at the new Marsa Malaz Kempinski last month we’ve already been back multiple times to Toro Toro. The pan-Latin American restaurant is the brainchild of celebrity Chef Richard Sandoval and features a rodizio-style service with some seriously succulent cuts of meat. The flavours are big and bold, and their grilled barbecue octopus made a convert of this QH editor! The table-side cocktail trolley is also a nice added touch and for dessert…the dulce de leche topped with toasted meringue is not-to-be-missed!
Eid Mubarak and welcome to July! Ramadan’s still going strong and hopefully all our readers out there are surviving the scorching heat. A GCC summer is never easy terrain to cross, but once we make it to the other side there’s loads to look forward to. Speaking of which, we’re pretty pumped to bring you our summer issue of Qatar Happening! From tips to beat the heat, summer movie previews and everything you ever wanted to know about the traditions of Eid, we hope you’ve grabbed your copy by now. Whether you choose to lounge by the pool or under the A/C, dive in with us for a summer that’s anything but lazy. For starters the new Regency Sealine Desert Camp is offering up a five-star Bedouin-style adventure for those weekend warriors brave enough not to let a little daytime heat get in the way of experiencing some star-filled Arabian nights. And if the thought of being outside is enough to make you melt, make use of our summer health and wellness tips to keep you fit and fabulous when September beach-party season rolls around. We also bring you two art features in our Culture pages with a female focus – women on canvas and those who wield the brush. Then in Community it’s all about Eid as one of our contributors, Tasbih Amin, shares with us some of the special moments that make the Feast of the Breaking of the Fast a spirited occasion in her family. If you plan to escape Doha and put on your traveling shoes this summer, flip to our Sensations section for some inspiration as we take you to bright-lights, big-city Hong Kong, then through the historic canals of Venice. (And be sure to keep an eye out next month for our special August Travel Issue!) Or, you prefer to stay indoors where the A/C’s thrumming? Then why not head to the movies to catch the new Terminator Genisys film? We’ve got an exclusive interview with main man Arnold Schwarzeneggar himself in our Entertainment pages.
Fit For A Sultan Of all the Ramadan tents being hosted across the city, there’s one we keep coming back to year-after-year: The W Doha’s. Their Sultan’s Tent is one of our faves for a few good reasons – with catering from Spice Market and Market by Jean-Georges, the food is some of the absolute best you’ll find and the décor is modern, yet opulent. We just love it – especially their selection of shisha flavours! Iftar is QR 230 per person and suhoor is QR 285, so grab your friends and break your fast in style!
Something’s Fishy One of our regular QH columnists recently had dinner with her husband at one of the city’s newest, upscale seafood restaurants to celebrate the upcoming birth of their first child. At nearly five months pregnant she informed the staff that she couldn’t eat sushi and would be having mocktails only. Yet when she asked their waiter to recommend a nice mocktail, she was brought a cocktail instead, unaware that it contained alcohol until questioning the QR 90 charge on the bill – after she’d already consumed it! The waiter denied responsibility for the mistake and she left the restaurant in tears. That’s just not on!
From all of us here at QH we wish you and your family a joyous Eid Mubarak and all the best for your most active, fun-filled summer yet! See you next month,
Ashlee Starratt Editor
Make Learning Fun
Top Of The Twitter-Verse @Blaugranism
my opinion the best mid-fielder Xavi. What a man and what a player. In g the club. leavin ever. We should be Al Sadd that he’s
How cool is it that Doha will be getting its very own KidZania theme park? Slated to open in 2017 in Aspire Zone, the concept is a cross between learning and entertainment and features an entire, kid-sized, city with buildings, cars, streets and its own economy. Kids can have the chance to take on and learn from 100 ‘roles’ such as dentist, fireman, journalist, actress and more. Talk about a town of makebelieve come to life – sounds like it’ll be the next big thing!
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Images courtesy of The Grand Hyatt This month’s grab-bag is about experiencing Chef Martin Kretzschmar the ultimate royal luxury in started his career as a cook apprentice the majestic Grand Hyatt Martin in 2004 in his home country of Germany in one Doha. The hotel is treating of the local hotels, before joining Hyatt in 2007. the years, he developed his skills and one of our readers to a night’s Throughout gained experience – notably in Switzerland, United stay for two in the Royal Suite Arab Emirates and Thailand –before joining Grand Doha as Chef de Cuisine for the all-day dining including a dinner for six in Hyatt restaurant, The Grill, in February 2015. the same suite. The meal asked Chef Martin why he chose the culinary will be prepared by Chef de We arts as a career: “My first memories came from my Cuisine of The Grill, Martin grandmother’s kitchen which was always filled with and comfort. I remember standing right next Kretzschmar. To participate, warmth to her and just observing her cook, mixing all the Indulge with an afternoon of pampering at the hotel's head over to the Qatar flavours to create a delicious meal for the whole renowned Jaula Spa family. This is how I became passionate about Happening Facebook page cooking and creating new flavours.” where the winner will be A Few Selected selected on July 12. A Royal Experience Amenities, Plus More! The grand view from the hotel's mezzanine
Perfect for visiting heads of state and royalty, the 205-square-metre Royal Suite features a king bedroom with master bath, a dry sauna, walk-in rain shower and tub, plus sitting and dining areas and a 106-square-metre balcony. Enjoy every possible amenity, including LCD TV, espresso-maker, complimentary internet access, newspaper service and breakfast in the Club Lounge.
• Balcony • Patio • Wet bar • Kitchenette • Separate sitting and work areas • Marble bath • Walk-in shower • 24-hour room service • Minibar • 40-inch or larger TV • Additional TV(s) in bedroom(s) • Video-On-Demand • Mini-stereo sound-system • DVD player • High-speed internet access • Individual air-conditioning control • Private concierge • Dining area • June Jacobs amenities • Sauna and Jacuzzi • Separate dressing room This is one grand prize that’s fit for a king or queen – will you be the lucky reader to receive the royal treatment? Enter now and find out on July 12! n
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ENTERTAINMENT
Top Picks
MARRIOTT MARQUIS CITY CENTER DOHA Champions Re-Opening
2nd Day of Eid: Champions. The World Cup is over, but the world of sports has much more to offer. Celebrate the re-opening of Doha’s best sports bar on the second day of Eid with a Happy Hour from 5:00 p.m. till 7:00 p.m. For more information call 4419-6100 or visit www.marriottmarquisdohadining.com.
INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA BBR: Burgers, Brews & Rock
Fridays (After Ramadan): Paloma. Every Friday night Paloma brings you something completely new. Resident band Back To Back will be playing only the best of rock music, while an extensive gourmet burger menu is on offer featuring more than 10 delicious varieties. Join Doha's first and only Burger Challenge – a 750-gram beast of a burger with toppings and fries. Finish it in less than 15 minutes and receive a free ‘I Beat The Burger’ T-shirt, two complimentary drinks, and your name on their Burger Wall of Fame. For more information call 4484-4919 or 4484-4444.
THE GRAND HYATT House Of Groove
July 30: Dunes. Mark this date on your calendar and get funky at Dunes for a night full of grooves and disco music with DJ Santiago. For more information call 7021-8094.
KEMPINSKI RESIDENCES & SUITES Hoteliers Night LA CIGALE Ladies Night With DJ Tony Shweiry
Sundays (After Ramadan): Madison Piano Bar. Ladies night is back, so save your Sunday’s for the most vibrant night yet with DJ/VJ Tony Shweiry! That’s not all – ladies receive one complimentary welcome drink on the house. Membership required. For more information call 4428- 8665 or 5518- 8008.
Saturdays (After Ramadan): The Lounge. All hoteliers can enjoy a complimentary 25% off their final bill for dinner and drinks in The Lounge when presenting their company ID card or business card. For more information call 4405-3325, email restaurants.doha@kempinski.com, or visit www.kempinski.com/doha.
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ENTERTAINMENT
Sesame Sing-Along
As told to Jorge Granda Images courtesy of Fusion Middle East
It’s sunny days on Sesame Street as the brand-new Elmo Makes Music stage performance makes its Doha début from July 18-22 with a cast of fun and furry musicians. QH claps to the rhythm. 12 QH July 2015 - FINAL.indd 12
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M
ark your calendar for a musical event like no other—monsters making music! Tickets for all 10 shows are on-sale now as Elmo, Abby Cadabby, Big Bird and all their Sesame Street friends get ready to take to the stage at QNCC to share their love of music in Sesame Street Live: Elmo Makes Music. Abby Cadabby loves to sing and wants to start a new band on Sesame Street – so she teams up with Elmo and friends to join the fun and discover ‘instruments’ they never knew existed…pots and spoons, trash-can lids, and even cookie jars! Everyone’s favourite fun, furry and feathered friends teach children that we can make and enjoy beautiful music together. Like television’s Sesame Street, each Sesame Street Live production features timeless lessons for all ages. The universal appeal of a Sesame Street Live show continues long after pre-school, and through the razzle-dazzle of this musical, Broadway-quality production, kids can learn about patience, acceptance and teamwork. Adults will also appreciate the high-tech stage-craft, cleverly written scripts, and music they’ll recognize and enjoy sharing with their little ones, such as ‘The Hustle’, ‘You Should Be Dancing’ and ‘Rockin’ Robin.’ Elmo Makes Music features nearly two dozen songs, including classics like ‘C Is For Cookie’ and ‘The Alphabet Song’ that kids will love to sing along with. So, will we see you in the front row? n SESAME STREET LIVE: ELMO MAKES MUSIC Dates: July 18-22, 2015 Location: Qatar National Convention Centre Timings: Shows run from 5:00 p.m. till 6:30 p.m., and an evening show from 8:00 p.m. till 9:30 p.m. Doors open one hour prior to each show. Ticket Info: • QR 110, silver • QR 170, gold • QR 230, platinum • QR 350, VIP There will be a 10% early-bird discount until July 10 on Silver, Gold and Platinum categories. Tickets are available in Virgin Megastores or at www.virginmegastore.me. Tickets may also be purchased on show days at the QNCC ticket counter. Contact Info: Visit www.sesamestreetlive.com, become a fan of Sesame Street Live on Facebook, or visit Fusion Middle East on Facebook.
Join the cast of Sesame Street this July at QNCC!
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SPECIAL PROMOTION
Desert Playground
Forty minutes outside Doha, where the sea meets the sand, is where you’ll find the new Regency Sealine Camp. A blend of modern comforts and Arabic tradition, it tops our list of summer staycation destinations. Five-Star Desert Luxury Regency Sealine Camp offers guests the comfort of a hotel in the middle of the desert. With a full, on-site staff to make sure you have an experience of a lifetime, head out dune-bashing with 4x4 vehicles, quad-biking across the terrain, or try some volleyball, football or camel-riding through the desert – the camp offers all of them! Each 15x8 square-metre room is fully air-conditioned and equipped with five-star amenities including room service, bathrobes, slippers, toiletries, and anything else you may have forgotten to stow away in your overnight bag. The camp offers 15 furnished en-suite tents that each have a bedroom with king-size and twin beds, and a living area with more sleeping accommodations and cozy sit-outs offering exceptional desert and sea views.
Campfire Feasts Start your day with a Continental, Oriental or Healthy breakfast featuring a selection of signature dishes, or enjoy a selection from their special menu of burgers, fish, chicken, meat, BBQ, shawarma, pasta, noodles, and salads. Got a sweet tooth? You can give in to it with a selection of ice creams and fresh fruits from their dessert offerings. At noon, in the shade of a hand-woven canopy, they serve a healthy lunch buffet with meat skewers accompanied by a variety of daily salads, baked bread and a variety of cold drinks and fresh mocktails, baskets of pastries and well-loved local mint tea. Each evening, the chef prepares a variety of international, Asian and Arabic dishes, while guests can dine together around a communal table or request a private table for an intimate candle-lit evening under the stars. Classic, succulent dishes are chosen for the menu specifically to enhance the desert camp experience.
One Destination For Any Occasion The perk of the Regency Sealine Camp is its serene location – perfect for a weekend of family fun or a
company team-building adventure – and the camp can host all sizes of groups. Their on-site event management team is a big plus – this way you’ll know that your experience will be exclusive and no small detail spared. With the unique backdrop of the desert and sea, any ordinary party, company retreat, family affair or weekend trip can become an extraordinary adventure.
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The camp's king-size accommodation – now this is what we call 'glamping'!
Enjoy some shisha in their opulent majlis
PACKAGES & SPECIAL DEALS Half-Day Desert Safari • Duration: 4 hours • Timings: 9:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. • Rate per person: - QR 710 (No. of Passengers: 1) - QR 380 (No. of Passengers: 2) - QR 270 (No. of Passengers: 3) - QR 220 (No. of Passengers :4) - QR 190 (No. of Passengers: 5) • Pick-up and drop-off within Doha city limits • Dune-bashing for 45-minutes • Trip to Inland Sea • Stop at Regency Sealine Camp • Refreshments to be served during the tour (Cold drinks, tea and coffee)
Luxury Desert Safari Camping • Duration: 18 hours • Timings: 2:30 p.m. till 8:00 a.m. the next day • Rate per person: - QR 1,820 (No. of Passengers: 2) - QR 1,330 (No. of Passengers: 3) - QR1,090 (No. of Passengers :4) • Pick-up and drop off within Doha city limits • 1 night room accommodation in a Royal Tent at Regency Sealine Camp • Dune-bashing for 45 minutes • Trip to Inland Sea • Access to Regency Sealine Camp facilities and amenities • Arabian Barbecue Dinner • Continental breakfast • Tea and coffee station
Full-Day Desert Safari
Full-Day Desert Camp (with room)
• Duration: 7 to 8 hours • Timings: 9:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. (Friday 2:00 p.m. only) • Rate per person: - QR 900 (No. of Passengers: 2) - QR 370 (No. of Passengers: 3) - QR 650 (No. of Passengers :4) - QR 600 (No. of Passengers: 5) • Pick-up and drop-off within Doha city limits • Dune-bashing for 45-minutes • Trip to Inland Sea • Access to Regency Sealine Camp facilities and amenities • Arabian Barbecue Lunch or Dinner • Tea and coffee station
• Duration: 6 to 7 hours • Timings: 9:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. (Friday 2:00 p.m. only) • Rate per person: - QR 1,110 (No. of Passengers: 2) - QR 830 (No. of Passengers: 3) - QR 630 (No. of Passengers :4) • Pick-up and drop-off within Doha city limits • Day-use of Royal Tent accommodation at the Regency Sealine Camp • Access to Regency Sealine Camp facilities and amenities • Arabian Barbecue Dinner • Tea and coffee station
Desert Lodging • Royal Tent - Meal Plan: Full-Board Basis - Weekday: QR 1,300 - Weekend: QR 1,800 • Extra Person Supplement - Meal Plan: Full-Board Basis - Weekday: QR 400 - Weekend: QR 400 • Rates are quoted per room, per night on Single or Double occupancy in Qatari Riyals. • Extra person supplement includes roll-away bed. Maximum capacity is 4 adults. • Weekend: Thursday, Friday and Saturday. • Child Policy: 0-6 years-old, free of charge. 6-12 years-old, 50% of adult extra person supplement.
Desert Transportation • Pick-Up Location: Within Doha city limits • Vehicle Type: Toyota Land Cruiser • Rate: QR 600 • Quoted rate for picking up and returning guests to the same location. Above packages and rates are not valid during events and holidays. (Terms and conditions apply). n REGENCY SEALINE CAMP For enquiries or group bookings: Call: 4434-3312/3113/3114 Email: jvelasco@wyndham.com, arabelas@wyndham.com, heldin@wyndham.com Website: www.regencysealinecamp.com
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Arnie ENTERTAINMENT
On Top By Jan Janssen Interview and selected images courtesy of Viva Press
From body-building, to Hollywood, to politics, we can’t fault Arnold Schwarzeneggar for taking life by the horns. Very few actors can claim to have such a varied career; whether he’s canvassing votes as Governor of California, or knocking our socks off as the Terminator, our fascination with all things Arnie continues to evolve along with the man himself. After a break from the big screen, he’s back in action starring in the new Terminator Genisys, in theatres this month, and QH has the inside scoop.
and Arnie is back on the big screen 's starring alongside Emilia Clarke Sarah Connor in the role that made him a house-hold name
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A
rnold Schwarzenegger has always been larger than life. First he was the Austrian stud who intimidated and muscled his way into winning five Mr. Universe bodybuilding championships. Then he used his good looks and natural guile to make his mark in Hollywood and ultimately become one of the biggest box-office stars in the film business. Films like Conan the Barbarian, Twins, Kindergarten Cop, and True Lies are all part of the Schwarzenegger legend. But it was James Cameron's seminal 1984 film, Terminator, that truly established him as a major international movie star whose classic line "I'll be back" became part of modern culture. Schwarzenegger became a symbol for action heroes and a rough-hewn brand of macho swagger. When he began to tire of Hollywood, he shifted his attention and relentless ambition to politics and successfully ran for Governor of California, having already become part of political royalty by marrying Maria Schriver of the fabled Kennedy family dynasty. Though his marriage ended after he admitted to having fathered a child with the family housekeeper, Schwarzenegger is not a man to admit defeat. He has resurrected his film career of late and is now about to see whether his name still carries weight in Terminator Genisys, the fourth installment in the Terminator franchise. Having wisely skipped T3 (the Christian Bale film that was widely panned), Arnold decided to return to the role that turned him into a major movie star. "I always said that I would do another Terminator if the story is great," Schwarzenegger says. "I think I really enjoyed this story when I read it. I wanted another chance to get into the character because I've always been very passionate about it. It’s a great and interesting character. I think it’s a great story and I feel like I've been playing him my whole life. It's part of me." In Terminator Genisys, Arnold returns to the role of the seemingly indestructible android who this time out has been programmed to protect Sarah Conner from the machine invasion that is in the process of destroying Earth. The stunningly beautiful Emilia Clarke (Daenerys of Game of Thrones) takes over the Sarah Connor role and she and Schwarzenegger may well take help return the Terminator franchise to its former glory days.
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ENTERTAINMENT see Sgt. The Terminator: Genisys plot will travel back Kyle Reese (Jai Courtney) timefrom the to 1984 to protect Sarah Connor ction robot army that's bent on her destru
QH: Has the film industry changed a great deal since you were the top box-office star in the 80’s and 90’s?
junket Arnold Schwarzeneggar at a press release in advance of the film's theatrical
AS: To me, the important thing is that my movies can play anywhere and people will understand the drama, the action, or whatever and get entertained. Whether it's a Conan script or a Terminator movie, the movie has to play the same way in all the different continents. That's very important — from the beginning, when I was getting started, I always looked at everything in a global way, whether it was bodybuilding or fitness promotion. Even though I passed environmental laws in California, I was thinking about how to make it effective all over the world. It's always about the world.
QH: Arnold, are you excited about returning to the Terminator franchise that turned you into one of the biggest movie stars in the history of Hollywood?
QH: Were you worried about coming back to the role in case the film wouldn't be able to deliver the kind of action that the first two films were so famous for?
AS: It's been a very rewarding experience to get back into the role. It was kind of like riding a bicycle that you never really lose it –now I'm back again. James Cameron created a great concept about machines taking over the world and in our present day this is more true than ever. So I think a new generation of audiences is going to be anxious to see our Terminator movie and be part of this new journey. There are incredibly talented people who are part of this movie and it's a very visionary story. It's a big and exciting world that we've created.
AS: I never would have become involved if the story and the visual effects were not bigger and better than ever. We all knew that we had to raise the game and go way beyond what we did in Terminator and T2. We were ahead of our time with the visual effects on those films, and we want to be even further ahead with what we've done with this movie. We want audiences all over the world to feel that they're witnessing a very powerful and entertaining movie. We want to deliver on every level possible.
With movies, even though I had big fights in the beginning, I remember that with Universal Studios we were going to do promotion for Conan the Barbarian and I said, ‘Let's go to 10 countries.’ They said, ‘No, no, that's not how we do it. We visit three countries — England, France, and the Cannes Film Festival.’ I wanted to go to Italy, Germany, Japan. I kept at it and eventually they sent me to 10 countries, but they thought it was a little out there. They said, ‘This guy just likes to travel around.’ But it had nothing to do with traveling around. I thought that the world was the marketplace, not just America. QH: Obviously big new markets like Asia and particularly China are very important to Hollywood studio productions… AS: Look what happened: I was totally on the money. I'm so happy today because I was so right and way ahead of the curve. Now, in China, The Fast
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and the Furious made like $400 million and will end up making more over there than in America. China's right behind America. So the world is very important for box office and making big movies. You need to go to China, Japan, African nations. You need to go to these places and make sure they're building theatres all over the world. It's a world economy. QH: With a massive film like this, actors like yourself are forced to imagine the background and work with a green screen. Do you ever worry about the final product itself and whether it's going to match your own vision? AS: Well, I think that when you’re shooting the movie, you really aren’t aware of any of that. It’s sometimes challenging when you film and you only see a green background and then you have to kind of imagine that this is inside some huge factory or this is the future world and all of those things, so that will be then put in later on when you're not there. And what is really surprising is then when you watch it – because I was not there when a lot of this stuff was done visual effects-wise – and all of a sudden to see the size of the movie and to see it then with the music and to see it all when it's totally finished. Like, I've just watched it literally a few days ago before I went to Brazil and then came over to Australia, I was blown away by it. QH: You've played in many different kinds of movies, including the recent horror film, Maggie. What's your favourite role of your career? AS: It’s hard to say. I enjoyed playing with Danny DeVito, the twin brother, as much as I enjoyed being the Terminator, the cyborg machine, or being Conan, or being Jamie Lee Curtis’ husband in True Lies. These are all very fun characters. I know the people enjoy me playing the tough characters or the funny characters. I also enjoyed being in the jungle with those guys and fighting the Predator. These are all fun characters to play. But, I also have the joy of playing my real-life character. That’s a much more challenging character to play. Being someone who’s on a fitness crusade, always out there promoting health and fitness, and being on an environmental crusade, protecting the environment. QH: You’re a man of enormous ambition and you have accomplished virtually everything you’ve ever set your mind toward achieving, from bodybuilding, to movies, to politics. Did you surpass your own expectations? AS: I never that I will be able to do all of those things to the extent that I did it. I would say that I always was very motivated, I always had big visions. I'm very serious about my visions. I see them very clearly. Unlike most people, I really see them clearly and therefore I see that you can go after them if you work hard and if you know how to get there – that's number two. And number three, I think it’s because [of] America. America…it's always known to be the land of opportunity, but I have experienced it firsthand. It's not just a slogan or a saying. It’s really the land of opportunity because only in America you can do something like that.
g He may be the Terminator to adorin s of audiences, the Governor to legion en voters, but to his family of five childr – Arnie is simply Dad.
QH: Did you ever find yourself getting caught up in your own image when it seemed like you were on top of the world? AS: I never took myself too seriously. What I did take seriously and very serious was the issues that I tackle. That if you talk about promotion of health and fitness and you become the chairman of the President's Council on Fitness and you go through all 50 states and you go into the schools and you promote the idea of hiring more physical education teachers. Or if you go out and try to get an extra $500 million for after-school programs. Or if you go out and try to convince the people to get off fossil fuels and to go into more with renewable energy, since we have an abundant amount of that. So those issues I take very seriously. But I don't take myself that seriously because to me life is all about,
you know, hard work and my father always said to me, ‘Be useful’. To be useful, it's very important, to do something that is bigger than you are, causes that are bigger than you are, but have a good time at the same time. Smile, have a good time, have a positive attitude and see always everything [as] the glass is half-full rather than half-empty. QH: You've had personal ups and downs in your life. How do you move forward? AS: By not dwelling on your mistakes. I refuse to dwell on the negative because there's no point – it won't change anything. You need to move forward, become a better man, do greater things. You can't stop. It's ridiculous and counter-productive to indulge in suffering and guilt. It won't make things better or help you deal with it. I will never do that. I will always go forward in life. n
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VIRGIN RECOMMENDS
QH BRINGS YOU THE TOP STAFF PICKS FROM THE MEGASTORE
NAME: GRACE DY STORE SECTION: LITERATURE TIME AT VIRGIN: 5 YEARS
Best Part of My Job:“Since I started working in Literature, I realized the value of reading books. I learned a lot from being here, so I encourage everyone to pick up a book and feed your mind – that’s very important for me.”
GRAY MOUNTAIN BY JOHN GRISHAM John Grisham has penned more than 27 novels in his career and his latest may just be one of his most nail-biting. When lawyer Samantha Kofer’s career on Wall Street comes to an abrupt end, she picks up sticks for Brady, Virginia where a gig at a legal aid clinic soon uncovers the hidden scandals of the coal mining industry that quickly turn deadly. Retail price: QR 130 for hardcover.
INSURGENT BY VERONICA ROTH The second novel in Roth’s best-selling Divergent trilogy – and now a major motion picture, Insurgent picks up with protagonist Tris Prior caught in the middle of a looming war among the five factions and wondering if she made the right choice to join Dauntless. Sides will be chosen and secrets exposed as Tris and her friends try to save the ones they love…and themselves. Retail price: QR 65.
MINECRAFT: THE OFFICIAL BEGINNER’S HANDBOOK BY STEPHANIE MILTON The ultimate intro to one of the tech-generation’s most long-standing games, this beginner’s guidebook will teach you how to find resources, make shelters, construct armour, tools, weapons and –most importantly – protect yourself in the game. Retail price: QR 58.
THE LEADER WHO HAD NO TITLE BY ROBIN SHARMA Self-help guru Robin Sharma shares what he’s learned about life and business in this book. His formula for success is one he’s taught to Fortune 500 companies and some of the most influential names in business, making him a sought-after leadership adviser. Learn how to work with and influence the right people, recognize and seize opportunities, defeat stress and build a top team. Retail price: QR 68.
THE GOLDFINCH BY DONNA TARTT Winner of the 2014 Pulitzer Prize for fiction, The Goldfinch tells the story of 13-year-old Theo Decker who has survived a horrific accident that left his mother dead. Abandoned by his father, Theo spends his childhood in foster care, nurturing his grief through an obsession with a small, mysterious painting that reminds him of his mother. As an adult now entrenched in the art-world, Theo finds himself alone, in the company of danger, and still searching for love. Retail price: QR 65.
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Spotlight On Movies Grab a dictionary and look up ‘summer blockbusters’. We wouldn’t be surprised if you found these fantastic five!
TERMINATOR GENISYS
SELF/LESS
PIXELS
Action, Adventure, Sci-Fi After finding himself in a new time-line, Kyle Reese teams up with John Connor's mother Sarah and an aging terminator to try and stop the one thing that the future fears – Judgment Day.
Sci-Fi, Thriller An extremely wealthy man, dying from cancer, undergoes a radical medical procedure that transfers his consciousness into the body of a healthy young man. But all is not as it seems when he starts to uncover the mystery of the body's origin and the organization that will kill to protect its cause.
Action, Comedy When aliens misinterpret video-feeds of classic arcade games as a declaration of war, they attack the Earth in stellar arcade form!
Stars: Arnold Schwarzeneggar, Emilia Clarke, Jai Courtney QH Fun Fact: Due to Arnie’s ‘advanced’ age (he’s 67!) director Alan Taylor had it written into the screenplay that the living terminators’ skin should age like a normal human’s would. No CGI to make Arnie look younger – how convenient!
Stars: Ryan Reynolds, Matthew Goode, Ben Kingsley QH Fun Fact: Those mind-body transfer machines you see in the film? Yeah…they’re just modified real-life CT scanners. The future is now!
Crime, Drama, Mystery An aged, retired Sherlock Holmes looks back on his life and grapples with an unsolved case involving a beautiful woman. Good to see Sir Ian back on the big-screen! Stars: Sir Ian McKellen, Laura Linney, Hattie Morahan
MR. HOLMES
QH Fun Fact: Sir Ian McKellen is the second actor from the Marvel Films to take on the role of Sherlock Holmes after Robert Downey Jr.’s unforgettable turn as the oddball detective.
Stars: Adam Sandler, Peter Dinklage, Michelle Monaghan QH Fun Fact: The video game high-scores achieved by the characters in the movie are based on real life figures – Billy Mitchell’s 3,333,360 perfect Pac-Man score, Jim Schneider’s 16,389,547 Centipede score, and Hank Chien’s 1,068,000 Donkey Kong world record.
Animation, Comedy, Family We all love them and now they’re getting their own movie! Minions Stuart, Kevin and Bob are recruited by Scarlet Overkill, a super-villain who, alongside her inventor husband Herb, hatches a plot to take over the world. Stars: John Hamm, Sandra Bullock, Michael Keaton QH Fun Fact: Remember the end credits of Despicable Me 2? Where you had the three minions auditioning for a film role? Yeah…that was a sneaky teaser for this movie!
MINIONS
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ENTERTAINMENT
Listings All listings are categorized per hotel. Inclusion is limited to availability of space, with priority given to advertisers.
QH RECOMMENDS
Happy Hour
Daily: Paloma. Enjoy an amazing Happy Hour from 5:00 p.m. till 7:00 p.m. with selected beverage offerings seven days a week and exclusive food offerings on Saturday, Sunday and Monday with a 50% discount off their a la carte menu. For more information call 4484-4919 or 4484-4444.
KEMPINSKI RESIDENCES & SUITES Cosmopolitan Ladies Night
Mondays: The Lounge. At ladies night at The Lounge, ladies enjoy 50% off the Cosmopolitan special drinks menus and a complimentary choice from the nibbles menu. From 8:00 p.m. till 12:00 a.m. For more information call 4405-3325, email restaurants.doha@kempinski.com, or visit www.kempinski.com/doha.
Loose Tie
INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA Big Night Out
Wednesdays: Paloma & Lava. It’s Doha’s biggest ladies night with unlimited complimentary selected drinks for ladies. Dance to the tunes of Paloma’s new resident band, Sizzle, followed by two dance-floors with resident DJs from 10:00 p.m. till late. For more information call 4484-4919 or 4484-4444.
Making it easier to navigate at your fingertips, we’ve categorized all our listings per outlet – including special offers and weekly/daily regular promotions.
SPECIAL PROMOTIONS HILTON DOHA Happy Hours
Daily: Blanco. Blanco rooftop lounge is your new after-work haven. Enjoy relaxing lounge music, shisha, drinks and gourmet bites with unbeatable views of the Gulf. Enjoy a 50% discount on selected beverages and complimentary snacks. From 5:00 p.m. till 8:00 p.m. For more information call 4423-3413.
MARSA MALAZ KEMPINSKI Signature Molecular Creations
Daily: Bohemia. Bohemia oozes sophistication and is surrounded by luxury and comfort. The lounge offers the finest selection of molecular creations to ensure the experience is as unique and spectacular as the setting itself. Bohemia is the-place-to-be for those who dare to explore and experiment during their beverage adventures. From 5:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. For more information call 4035-5011, email restaurants.marsamalaz@kempinski.com, or visit www.kempinski.com/marsamalaz.
All outlets listed below will be closed during the Holy Month of Ramadan.
REGULAR PROMOTIONS INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA Lava Theme Nights
Sundays: Lava welcomes you to the world of Arabian nights. DJ Alex is on the decks to play the best of khaliji hits, plus the latest Arabic and English commercial dance mixes to move you all night. Enjoy and have fun till late with the best in Oriental and English music, alongside the usual quality cocktails and service from Lava. Mondays: Urban Diva Night with DJ Shadi. Enjoy two free drinks for ladies and no entrance fee from 10:00 p.m. till late. Tuesdays: Your Tuesday night is about to get much hotter. Lava offers an open bar for all female cabin crew with DJ Shadi on the decks playing the latest top house music mash-ups. Thursdays: Vibe Nights with their resident DJ. Fridays: Martini Madness with DJ Shadi playing his top-class house music, mash-ups, R&B and hip-hop. Come downevery Friday night as they bring you an evening of high-quality music alongside the usual quality cocktails and service from Lava! (Ladies get two Lava special martinis all night). Saturdays: Themed parties every Saturday night. Doors open from 8:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. For more information call 4484-4919 or 4484-4444.
Sundays: The Lounge. Imagine Cuban flavour surrounded by well-aged oak barrels and a touch of perfection...sounds tempting? Come and join your fellow connoisseurs on Sunday evenings at The Lounge from 8:00 p.m. till 12:00 midnight. For more information call 4405-3325, email restaurants.doha@kempinski.com, or visit www.kempinski.com/doha.
'The Secret House Party'
Wednesdays: The Lounge. Psssst, it’s a secret! Come and see DJ Kinky D performing next to the signature bar of The Lounge. From 9:00 p.m. till 12:00 midnight. For more information call 4405-3325, email restaurants.doha@kempinski.com, or visit www.kempinski.com/doha.
Deep House Night Out
Thursdays: The Lounge. Enjoy a tech house and deep house night out with DJs Hamad Al-Obaidly, Tough Stuff and CrazyU. Thursdays from 10:00 p.m. till 1:00 a.m. For more information call 4405-3325, email restaurants.doha@kempinski.com, or visit www.kempinski.com/doha.
MARRIOTT MARQUIS CITY CENTER DOHA Glo Cocktail Bar Re-Opening
2nd day of Eid: Glo. Join Pedro and his team of mixologists on the second day of Eid and enjoy his new cocktail menu. For more information call 4419-6100, or visit marriottmarquisdohadining.com.
MÖVENPICK HOTEL DOHA Be Entertained At Jazz Up
Fridays: Jazz Up. This bar is a charming spot where sports and music-lovers can chill out in intimate and contemporary surroundings. Listen to soothing tunes and indulge in their beverage selections, creative cocktails and snacks. Catch all the major sporting events live on the big screen, plus sizzling performances by the Doha Jazz Club every Friday from 8:00 p.m. onwards. For more information call 4429-1111.
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ORYX ROTANA DJ Night
Saturdays: Jazz Club. One of Doha’s best DJs will be playing all the hot new tunes and introducing a new twist to the Jazz Club. For more information call 4402-3333.
Ladies Night
Tuesdays: Jazz Club. Join in ladies and indulge in three complimentary drinks from 5:00 p.m. till 10:00 p.m. After that, enjoy a 50% discount on selected cocktails and kick back for the night with the jazz band Why Not playing. For more information call 4402-3333.
THE GRAND HYATT A1 Nights By Xtremer Entertainment Fridays: The Grill. Do you want to feel ‘A1’? Xtremer Entertainment presents ‘A1 Nights’ at The Grand Hyatt every Friday onwards from 9:00 p.m. until late. Xtremer’s official DJ Rage will rock the house along with top international DJs performing the best hip-hop, R&B, UK garage and soul music. Ladies enjoy free cocktails before 11:00 p.m. Dress code is dress-to-impress. For more information call 7712-3440 or 7798-2400.
THE ST. REGIS DOHA Ladies Night
Tuesdays: Vintage Lounge. Step into the glamourous and elegant Vintage Lounge for a great night out. Ladies enjoy a 50% discount off selected beverages from 6:00 p.m. till 1:00 a.m. For more information call 4446-0000.
Ladies On The Roof
Wednesdays: The Rooftop. Enjoy a fabulous ladies night al fresco on the one-and-only Rooftop. Buy-one-get-one-free on selected beverages. From 5:00 p.m. till 8:00 p.m. For more information call 4446-0226, or e-mail rooftop.doha@stregis.com.
W DOHA ‘The VIBE’ Ladies Night
Mondays: Wahm. Enjoy a night of deep house and Afro-beats with resident DJ’s Bruno and Savino. Ladies sip two drinks on the house from 9:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. Strictly reservation and guest list-only. For more information call 4453-5323.
After Work Aperitivo
Sat-Fri: Wahm. De-stress and head down to Wahm for an after work aperitivo with 50% off on all beverages. From 5:00 p.m. till 8:00 p.m. For more information call 4453-5323.
See us online! www.qatarhappening.com
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ENTERTAINMENT
Level 23 The Ritz-Carlton
Admiral’s Club The Ritz-Carlton
Jazz Up Mövenpick Hotel Doha
Beach Bar Lounge The Four Seasons Belgian Café InterContinental Doha Bohemia Marsa Malaz Kempinski Bubbles on Two Radisson Blu Champions Marriott Marquis City Center Doha Cigar Lounge Sharq Village & Spa Club 7 La Cigale Crystal Lounge W Doha D’Illusion Gokulam Park
Directory
4448-4800
4494-8888
4484-4444
4035-5555
4428-1428
4419-6100
4425-6666
4428-8888
Jazz At Lincoln Center Doha The St. Regis Doha The Jazz Club Oryx Rotana
Jazz Up Mövenpick Hotel Doha Krossroads Horizon Manor Hotel Lava Lounge InterContinental Doha Le Club Mercure Grand Hotel Level 23 The Ritz-Carlton
Liquidity Crowne Plaza Doha - The Business Park
Dunes The Grand Hyatt
4429-8888
Qube Radisson Blu
4428-1428
Rocca The Grand Hyatt
4448-1234
Shehrazad Radisson Blu
4428-1428
Sky View La Cigale
4428-8888
4402-3333
4429-1111
4445-5444
4484-4444 Spike’s Lounge Doha Golf Club
4496-0777
Splash Oryx Rotana
4402-3333
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 The Four Seasons
4494-8888
4405-3325
4446-2222
4448-4800
4408-7777
4428-8888
4470-8888 Manhattan Radisson Blu
Pearl Lounge Doha Marriott 4446-0000
4453-5135 Madison Piano Bar La Cigale
Glo Cocktail Bar Marriott Marquis City Center Doha
4428-1428
4448-1234
4445-5444
Misturado Crowne Plaza Doha - The Business Park
Glo Cocktail Bar Marriott Marquis City Center Doha
4419-6100
Orion Radisson Blu
4428-1428
The Lounge Kempinski Residences & Suites
Habanos The Ritz-Carlton
4484-8000
Oyster Bay & Bar The St. Regis Doha
4446-0105
Vintage Lounge The St. Regis Doha
4446-0105
4015-8888
Paloma InterContinental Doha
4484-4444
Wahm W Doha
4453-5353
Fahrenheit Horizon Manor Hotel
Hive InterContinental Doha The City
4408-7777
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ARTS & CULTURE
Top Picks
DOHA YOUTH & JUNIOR CHOIRS Sign Up And Sing
Ongoing: Al Waab St. These are audition choirs for youth ages 7-10 and 11-18 years-old. The teachers are experienced and dedicated to the cause of sharing their knowledge and passion for choral music. They rehearse Sunday and Wednesday afternoons in Al Waab. For more information email info@dohayouthchoir.com, or visit www.dohayouthchoir.com.
QATAR MUSEUMS Ramadan Summer Camps 2015
July 5-9: Museum Of Islamic Art, Education Building. Open to kids ages 5-7 years-old, children can explore the rich collection of objects at MIA through interactive and engaging sessions, discovering the richness of Islamic heritage through art. Through hands-on activities they will learn about Islamic geometry, calligraphic writing, astrolabes, the Hijri calendar, explore and create maps. Listen to and enjoy tales and fables from the Islamic world as well as create their own artwork linked to the current Marvellous Creatures exhibition. From 9:30 a.m. till 12:30 p.m. Fee is QR 600 and workshops are offered in Arabic. For more information visit www.qm.org.qa/education.
IAID Broadway Jazz For Ladies
Saturdays: Hilal St., Al-Tadamon Signal, D-Ring Road. Broadway dance is different from other styles due to its fusion of ballet, jazz and modern elements, which allow for unconventional movements and stage-inspired production choreography. The use of theatre props such as canes, top hats and gloves are also popular in Broadway productions. For more information call 4432-0974 or 4441-1234, visit www.iaidonline.org, or email enquire@iaidonline.org.
MUSEUM OF ISLAMIC ART Marvelous Creatures: Animal Fables In Islamic Art
VCUQATAR Community Classes
Ongoing: Education City. In addition to its summer programs, VCUQatar offers a choice of over 40 community education classes related to art, design and crafts, three times a year. Every fall (October to December), spring (February and March) and late spring (late April to mid-June) you can enhance your knowledge about photography and filming, glimpse into Islamic pattern construction or Arabic calligraphy and explore the world of fashion or interior design. For more information on registration for the 2015/2016 calendar year call 4402-0555, or visit www.qatar.vcu.edu/community.
Until July 11: Special Exhibitions Gallery, 1st Floor. This exhibition focuses on the real and mythical animals that appear in the legends, tales and fables of the Islamic world. Divided into the natural quadrants of earth, air, fire and water, these marvelous creatures introduce timeless stories such as the well-known and beloved classics Shahnameh, Kalilawa Dimna, and The Thousand and One Nights. The variety of objects presented in this exhibition – manuscripts, textiles, ceramics, jewelry, glass and metalwork – ranging from the 10th to the 19th centuries, demonstrates the enduring appeal of these characters and stories across diverse cultures. Entry is free. For more information call 4422-4444 or visit www.mia.org.qa.
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ARTS & CULTURE
Qajar Women: Beauty & Moustaches By Shahmim Akram Images courtesy of Qatar Museums
Tutus, mono-brows…and moustaches? The Museum of Islamic Art’s latest exhibition provides a fascinating insight into the notions of beauty and the female form. QH went for a visit to find out more.
Q
ajar Women: Images of Women in 19th Century Iran can be found in the Temporary Exhibition Galleries on the fourth floor. It brings a new perspective to the importance of women in the art of the Qajar era and changes the perception of a male-dominated world. Co-curators Dr .Nur Sobers-Khan and Dr. Mounia Chekhab-Abudaya have been busy giving talks and guided tours to the exhibition. QH attended the Beauty and Moustaches in Qajar Art event in order to learn more about this unique period in art history. The exhibition has been divided into four themes covering ‘Notions of Beauty: Images of Women in Qajar Art’; ‘Daily Life’; ‘Women, Power, and Refinement’;
and ‘Women as Symbols in Art.’ A wide variety of art objects have been put on display, including watercolours, lacquered tool-boxes, jewellery, ceramics, manuscripts and photography. The artworks have been carefully selected to show the lives of women in both the public and the private sphere. The watercolours of Émile Duhousset and Sani’ al-Mulk depict these different worlds, but are very interesting in their difference of styles. Sani’ al-Mulk’s work shows the mundane daily life of women with them dressed very plainly in their indoor and outdoor chadors doing errands, reading, or relaxing at home.
However, the work by a French artist from the same time period, Émile Duhousset, tended to Orientalize and exoticize women by emphasizing their outlandish head-dresses and tribal clothing. There was a bigger focus on their beauty and tribal features, rather than any social activities which could indicate civilized refinements such as female literacy. The exhibition covers many other interesting concepts, including the power of the female form in art as a metaphor for changing socio-political times. This is an important topic to Dr. Sobers-Khan who discussed the use of the non-threatening European beauty as an example of desirable female beauty in
early Safavid artwork as seen in the Mirror Case from Qajar Iran (1820).
However, by the late Qajar period, Europeans had further encroached onto Qajar territory which caused problems for the political sovereignty of the Qajar rulers. Dr. Sobers-Khan referred to the famous story of Sheikh Sanan and the Christian maiden as an example of this metaphor. The story is artistically represented on a lacquered pen-box that can be found in the exhibition. It’s a small object which can be easily missed, but it highlights how the same uncomplicated European beauty from earlier art periods was later used as a visual trope to represent an important symbol “of cultural anxiety and loss of political sovereignty.” So where do the tutus and moustaches fit in? Dr. Sobers-Khan elaborated upon this by noting the increased influence of European technologies upon Qajar rulers, such as Nasir al-Din Shah who was quick to adopt photography. During his reign he became famous for taking photographs of the women in his harem. Some of these images are rather striking, showing the fashions and beauty trends of the day, including the mono-brow and moustache which were considered to be of great attractiveness in the Qajar era. It’s astounding to learn that makeup was often used to draw on these features for those who did not possess them.
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Portrait of a lady playing a târ, or mandolin, Qajar, Iran
A case containing jeweller's th tools. Qajar, Iran, 19 century
Dr. Chekhab-Abudaya noted that Nasir al-Din Shah also adopted the fashion of the ballerina tutu skirt for his harem after he was exposed to the Russian ballet, which resulted in several hundred women dressed in tutus with mono-brows and moustaches! This further highlights how fashions change through time, and how the standards of female beauty were very different from our modern-day understanding. This flexibility of the notion of female beauty gives the exhibition a feminist undertone according to Dr. Sobers-Khan. She summarizes by emphasizing how this historical art canon “relativizes our own understanding of female beauty”. In fact the monobrow is such a recognizable visual to the Qajar era that Iranian artists, such as Hojat Amani and Mahmood Sabzi, use it in their own works. Qajar Cheeky Face by Hojat Amini is an excellent example of the mixing of Qajar aesthetics and iconography with the pop-art style of Andy Warhol. The contemporary pieces in the exhibition show that the visual female tropes are still of relevance today – they are simply being re-worked by modern artists for a modern audience. n
ile with young An old woman smoking the nargh th century girls embroidering. Qajar, Iran, 19
Mirror case. Qajar, Iran, 1820
Qajar Women: Images of Women in 19th Century Iran runs until June 11, 2016 at the Museum of Islamic Art. For more information about opening times and exhibitions visit www.mia.org.qa.Visitors can share their photos of the exhibition using the #QajarWomen hash-tag. To learn more about women in the society and culture of Qajar Iran visit www.qajarwomen.org.
Portrait of a woman by Émile Duhousset. Qajar, Iran
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ARTS & CULTURE
Tales On
Canvas
's more Awash with colour, two of Amal each surreal canvases draw the eye in y direction with their graceful fluidit
By Diana Farid Images courtesy of Amal Al Aethem
Qatari artist Amal Al Aethem has been earning accolades for her recent works. To the eye, her pieces are injected with colour and layered with the angles of the abstract; but for Amal each one utters a language all its own.
I
n our fast-moving world, an artist whose work gives us pause, imploring we slow ourselves down in contemplation can claim to be successful indeed. It takes someone very special to speak to your soul and communicate a message by looking at their paintings – a genuine talent that can convey a whole story through a piece of art. Today we talk to one of those examples – Qatari award-winning artist Amal Al Aethem who has recently ensconced herself on the world art scene by way of her exceptional talent. Amal is fast becoming one of the most prominent artists in Qatar and her reputation as an artist with a voice has earned her scores of international followers. According to Amal: “Art is not a hobby or a simple act done by talented people, but rather an entire
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Artist Amal Al Aethem's esthetic ional blends ethereal shades with tradit silhouettes of Khaleeji women.
life formed inside one’s imagination and a set of experiences and messages that artists try to convey through their pieces.” Her perplexing canvases tends to shed the light on different issues that reflect the Arab identity, our human nature, the unique burdens of women and her own endless dreams. She is challenged to convey her thoughts and feelings through each and every project – a reason why she explores multiple mediums for creative outlet that includes video art, painting, graphics and installation; but the framed picture remains her favourite art form. Her paintings speak deliberate riddles and communicate new meanings with each viewing. Each one carries a story and may even attempt to shed light on a question that is considered a taboo. Her journey thus far is greatly inspired by her little world: her Arabic environment and Gulf surroundings. Reflecting its microcosm in her paintings gave her an exceptional opportunity to showcase her innermost life questions and world concerns. “While I portray both the Qatari and the Gulf nature in my paintings, I’m mostly concerned with humanity in general and the Arabic Gulf woman in particular. I represent the woman, in a way, to highlight her precious societal value to send a message of all the burdens an Arab woman carries in her life.” Amal studied a depth of subjects including the History of Art from which she has learned that creating an identity in one’s art-work has a profound impact towards attaining success. “My paintings embody my objective to express myself, my thoughts, and my burdens as a woman and human,” she explains. “Despite humanity’s common destiny, women’s questions remain hidden, which has only inspired me further to use my colours and pieces of myself to show that.” By always highlighting the abaya, Amal wants to confront the myth of suppression or obscurement, instead using it as a portrayal of the Gulf’s rich culture. “Wearing the abaya in my paintings never means that my hero is constrained in any way. On the contrary the woman in my art is free, asking for her rights and speaking for herself.”
With her passion and strong vision in her work, Amal has been recognized both on a national and an international level where she was invited to participate in dozens of exhibitions all over the world – even earning her awards to her credit. “Participating in exhibitions is very important for me since each [one] has its own taste and nature which enriches my experience uniquely. Starting from the exhibition idea up until the event itself, every step is a special part of an endless adventure.” she shares. Participating in exhibitions abroad is also an additional bonus, putting her paintings on the art-world map. She smiles: “Seeing the audience accepting work from a totally different culture than theirs is the real success and the best reward for all the effort and time I put in my art pieces.” n To learn more about Amal Al Aethem and her artwork visit www.amalalaethem.com.
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ARTS & CULTURE
Listings
Museum Guide
For a complete list of timings visit www.qma.org.qa/en/exhibitions
QH RECOMMENDS
Mathaf: Arab Museum of Modern Art Education City 4402-8855 mathaf_info@qma.org.qa www.mathaf.org.qa Open: Tuesday to Sunday Closed: Mondays
Museum of Islamic Art & Park The Corniche 4422-4444 infomia@qma.org.qa www.mia.org.qa Open: Wednesday to Monday Closed: Tuesdays
The Fire Station & Garage Gallery QATAR MUSEUMS Now Open: The Fire Station
Ongoing: The renovated Civil Defence Building, known locally as Doha’s Fire Station, has recently been transformed to host a new artists-in-residence program. Fire Station: Artists in Residence fulfills a key part of Qatar Museum’s commitment to nurturing emerging talent by offering local artists opportunities to develop best practice by providing a platform for the exchange of ideas. The artists-in-residence program, due to open later in 2015, will support local artists by providing 20 studios and gallery spaces. For more information visit www.firestation.org.qa.
ONE OF A KIND QATAR MUSEUMS Ismail Azzam: For Them
Until Aug 31: Qatar Museums Gallery, Building 10, Katara. This exhibition will showcase Ismail Azzam’s distinctive portraits of painters and sculptors who have made a significant contribution to Arab art, with the entire body of work created exclusively for this show in Doha. For more information visit www.qm.org.qa.
MUSEUM OF ISLAMIC ART Qajar Women: Images Of Women In 19th Century Iran
Ongoing: Temporary Exhibitions Gallery, 4th Floor. This exhibition demonstrates the centrality of women in the artistic expression of 19th century Iran and how it continues to inspire contemporary artists. The most popular representations of the Qajar era have been of male sovereigns, whose life-size portraits exaggerate masculinity to depict power. Yet this era also saw a period of artistic modernization in Iran, particularly in paintings and photography, in which depictions of women became essential elements of the scenes. Showcasing women at the court, and in private, alongside images of female musicians and aristocratic women, this exhibition explores rarely-told narratives of the Qajar artistic tradition. Free entry. For more information call 4422-4444 or visit www.mia.org.qa.
THE GRAND HYATT The Corridor: Summer Exhibition 2015
Now Open: The Grand Hyatt has partnered with locally-based Australian artist Pip Hoy to launch The Corridor, a concept that supports the local art community in Qatar as part of the Hyatt Thrive initiative. It’s a unique grassroots gallery space for locally-based artists who wish to exhibit their work to the public and international visitors. The event of The Corridor will be the Summer Exhibition 2015, made up of a group exhibition curated by Pip Hoy. Artists who would like to participate in this landmark event for an opportunity to display their artworks can email noha.belhaj@hyatt.com.
EVERY WEEK IAID Visual Arts
Sat-Thurs: Hilal St., Al-Tadamon Signal, D-Ring Road. The visual arts program is a progressive course for beginners, intermediate and advanced that covers colour theory, art styles, drawing and painting techniques, shapes and figures, visual art perception and portraits with the use of various art mediums. For more information call 4432-0974/4441-1234, visit www.iaidonline.org, or email enquire@iaidonline.org.
Old Civil Defense Roundabout contact@firestation.org.qa www.firestation.org.qa. Open: Wednesday to Monday Closed: Tuesdays
ALRIWAQ DOHA
Museum of Islamic Art Park 4452-5555 Open: Same days as Museum of Islamic Art
QMA Gallery
Building 10, Katara, Cultural VIllage 4408-1255 qmagallery@qma.org.qa Open: Monday to Saturday & Sunday Closed: Fridays
MATHAF Mathaf Collection: Summary, Part 1
Ongoing: Permanent Exhibitions, First-Floor Galleries. The collection of Mathaf: Arab Museum of Modern Art is the largest of modern and contemporary art in the region. Established in the early 1990s, it continues to grow and today contains more than 8,000 objects from the Arab world, Iran, Turkey and other regions historically connected to the Arab Peninsula. Summary, Part 1 inaugurates the permanent display of Mathaf’s collection in the second-floor galleries with a first selection of 100 artists to give an overview of its breadth. The curatorial concept looks beyond traditional linear histories of art to highlight diverse attitudes, and contextualizes intellectual production within multiple modernities. For more information visit www.mathaf.org.qa.
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COMMUNITY
Top Picks
IAID Summer Workshops 2015
KATARA Ramadan Family Workshop
All-Summer: Hilal St., Al-Tadamon Signal, D-Ring Road. Starting from ages 3-years and above, IAID is now offering new and innovative summer courses such as All That Jazz, Prima Ballerina (classical ballet), Acrobatics, Hip-Hop, Dancercise, Little Voices, Comic-Book-Making and more. Plus they also have a high-quality training workshop on Personality Development conducted by Certified International Professional Trainer Vicky Ferrer-Mustafa. Classes are from 8:00 a.m. till 1:00 p.m. 1st cycle: July 10-August 27; 2nd cycle: July 11-26; 3rd cycle: July 28-August 10. For more information call 4432-0974/4441-1234, visit www.iaidonline.org, or email enquire@iaidonline.org.
July 3 & 10: Building 18, Katara Art Studios. Parents and children can enjoy some fun family time in preparation for Eid with these series of creative workshops. Take part in a drum al musaher or colour some popular figures of Ramadan. Fees range from QR 100-QR 150. Workshops start at 8:00 p.m. To register please send your name and phone number by email to education@katara.net or call the Katara Education Team at 4408-0233/0235.
KATARA 5th Beach Soccer Tournament 2015
Until July 18: Katara Beach. Football fans can enjoy a fun-filled tournament in partnership with Katara and the Al-Furjan Committee for Soccer Tournaments in Aspire as 10 teams go-head-to-head. Prizes for the winning team and runners-up range from QR 5,000-QR 50,000. For more information visit www.katara.net.
DOHA MUMS New Arrivals Coffee
Tuesdays: Landmark Mall. Whether you’re new to Doha, new to Doha Mums or just want to welcome someone who is, please join them for a casual coffee every Tuesday at Starbucks in Landmark Mall from 9:30 a.m. till 11:30 a.m. During Ramadan they will be meeting at the Wyndham Hotel every Tuesday at the same time on July 7 and 14. Regular meetings at Landmark will resume from July 21. Children are welcome and there’s no need to RSVP. For more information visit www.dohamums.com or email rsvp@dohamums.com.
DOHA TWEETUPS Monthly Networking
Ongoing: If you’re new to Qatar, the Doha Tweetups is a great way to get involved and meet new people. This online community regularly hosts monthly ‘offline’ gatherings where people can network or enjoy themed presentations of local talent. Follow them on Twitter or Facebook to find out when and where the next event will be held, or email them at team@dohatweetups.com.
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COMMUNITY
W
ith its rituals and traditions, the arrival of Eid Al Fitr brings back the fondest memories for me as a child. On the evening of the last day of Ramadan, my family and I crowd around the TV, waiting for the Eid announcement; if the new moon was sighted, then the month of Ramadan has come to an end. If the new moon did not appear, we would fast another day until the Holy Month was officially over. As a child, it was a huge disappointment to wait yet another day for Eid, but my parents always reminded me that that extra day was an opportunity to be more giving and patient. Once the new moon is sighted, the Eid celebration and cultural rituals begin. My mother would bathe me and my siblings and dress us in our new pajamas. On the same evening, our parents would drive us to the toy store to pick out our Eid presents – it was always a joy seeing other children on a hunt for the perfect Eid toy. We would then make a detour to the bakery to buy kaakuleid (traditional baked goodies) before going home, making our last stop the charity house where our parents give zakatulfitr (an Eid Al Fitr donation) so that the poor can have a wonderful, festive Eid. On the morning of Eid Al Fitr, we wake up extra early, dress up in our new clothes, and make our way to the mosque along with our family and friends for Eid prayer. Even as a child, I found the Eid prayer a wonderful ritual, surrounded by happy people praying to one God and enjoying the fruits of out labour during the Holy Month of Ramadan. After prayer, we head to our grandparent’s place to join the Eid celebration with the whole family. This was the best part for us as children – playing with our cousins, showing off our new toys and clothes and, most importantly, receiving the eidya (Eid allowance) from our aunts and uncles. The bigger the family, the more money we scored to buy more toys and candy. By noon, we gather around the dining table to give thanks over a mouthwatering, home-cooked Eid meal. This can differ from one culture to another, but most commonly people have seafood on Eid Al Fitr.
The notes of traditional music emanate from a group of minstrels during Souq Waqif's annual Eid Festival
Traditions Of Eid By Tasbih Amin
As the month of Ramadan comes to an end, Muslims around the world bid the Holy Month a tearful goodbye and welcome the arrival of Eid Al Fitr – a day of celebration after a long month of worship and devotion. QH takes you inside one family’s traditions.
After enjoying the Eid meal with the whole family, we would go with our cousins and family friends to the amusement park to spend the rest of the day. There, we’d hop on every ride, spend our Eid allowance on candy, and enjoy the puppet show they put on-stage in every mall in town. Although Eid Al Fitr was originally celebrated on only one day, nowadays the celebration is extended for two more days so people can travel and spend more time with their family and loved ones. For us as children, that meant visiting relatives and spending time at amusement parks. Now that I’m an adult and live alone in Doha, Eid Al Fitr is a little different. I look back at these cherished memories and try to create new ones with my friends who have become my family here in Doha. After all, the essence of Eid Al Fitr is rejoicing in the acceptance of acts of worship and obedience during Ramadan, and striving to become a better, giving person. Eid Mubarak! n
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SPECIAL PROMOTION
rk on a Students from Doha College emba of the Duke of school camping excursion as part Edinburgh Award activities.
aspect of the learning process; they supplement and complement the traditional curriculum, giving students a chance to broaden their horizons. They’re also a valuable addition to university and job applications in an increasingly competitive marketplace. I feel it’s particularly important that we, as educators and parents, provide opportunities for our children to explore and expand their skills required throughout life. While the weather in Qatar is not always suitable for outdoor activities, children at schools across Doha can still choose to participate in dance classes, music, indoor sports, and swimming to name a few. Doha College offers extra-curricular activities as varied as paddle-boarding, debating and French cooking classes. Students can even spend time performing covers of pop and rock songs! I always encourage any student to enlist in the Duke of Edinburgh Award, a non-competitive program that allows students to set and achieve personal goals for community service, skills, fitness, and adventure. We currently have more than 200 participants – a long way from the 20 that signed up when the program was introduced at Doha College in 1998. The initial expedition remains a permanent fixture in my memory, as I lost all of them on the first night [of the adventure excursion] in Oman!
The Extra (Curricular) Mile By Mark Leppard
The keys to broadening young minds lie outside the classroom. Mark Leppard, Principal of Doha College explores how involving children and teens in extra-curricular activities over the summer pays educational dividends for the school-year ahead.
A
s the academic year draws to a close it’s an opportunity to reflect on the year that was. Over the past 12 months we’ve seen some very positive changes in education in Qatar. It was pleasing to hear the announcement late last year that a host of new schools will open their doors in September. It’s a reflection of the value that is placed on education in Qatar.
At Doha College we are similarly committed to providing a first-class education, having achieved another ‘outstanding’ inspection from the British Schools Overseas. During the year we’ve celebrated the academic success of our students. However, it’s not only time in the classroom that creates well-rounded children and young adults. Sports and other extra-curricular activities are a valuable
It is with a mixture of joy and sadness that I look back over the past year as I now mark the final days of my tenure as Principal of Doha College, as Dr. Steffen Sommer prepares to take the reins in September. Steffen brings 23 years of educational experience, having led three successful international schools across Europe. I am proud to be leaving the college in such capable hands; it has been a part of my life for the past 19 years and I’ve enjoyed watching and guiding it on its journey to being one of the leading international schools. Over the past 12 months we have seen some great initiatives implemented, such as the new pool at West Bay, a successful medical review conference, an art exhibition, Qatar’s first Arabic competition, and a sell-out performance of Bugsy Malone – and the 2015-2016 school year is looking even more exciting. I would like to thank the Qatar community for their support of Doha College and I wish you all a safe and pleasant summer holiday. n
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COMMUNITY By Sarah Al Motairi Selected images courtesy of the Qatar Professional Women’s Network Additional photography by Jessie Palanca
We sit down with the Qatar Professional Women’s Network’s Karen Kennaby, to learn how the group’s entrepreneurial spirit is helping our nation’s career-oriented women reach new heights.
Q
atar is a hub for professional women to succeed in their careers. In alignment with Qatar‘s 2030 Vision, the Qatar Professional Women’s Network (QPWN) aims to be a leading cross-industry, cross-cultural professional women’s group supporting the development and advancement of women in Qatar. QH had the pleasure of meeting Karen Kennaby to learn more about the non-charity organization. Karen is an international coach, mentor, speaker, host and presenter of The Karen Kennaby Show on Untangled FM and leader of the QPWN. Founded by Christina Zini five years ago in February 2010, QPWN’s mission is to support women’s advancement and development so they may contribute to the sustainability of the local community by helping its members expand their networks, refine their professional capabilities and benefit from cross-cultural sharing. “I was approached by Carolin Zeitler asking if I would take over as leader for QPWN,” smiles Karen. “I have over 21 years experience with my own event management company. I think that was appealing. I am used to the professional women’s arena and very happy speaking to an audience. I am comfortable being on-stage, on-air and on-screen.” Karen travels between Qatar and the US but finds it easy to stay connected due to technology. Keeping Christina’s vision alive plays a key role in Karen’s enthusiastic and dedicated approach to QPWN. Between volunteers and arranging a wide variety of events, QPWN is able to provide a platform attracting a broad range of expertise from women who are newly settled in Qatar, to women who have been here for years with much experience. “At our monthly networking events, we host different guest speakers allowing plenty of networking time after the talk,” continues Karen.
The Pearl Of Networking
QPWN is always happy to host events such as TEDx Talks, panels for women in oil and gas and they were recently approached by the Doha Women’s Forum to host and moderate their event on June 14, 2015. The event focused on women being the agents of change to build a better society. It was held at The Torch, sponsored by Aspire Zone, Mercedes Benz and others. The event included speakers such as Qatari writer and entrepreneur, Maryam Al Subaiey, Managing Director of Roudha Centre, Shareefa Fadhel and Director of the Doha Athletics Club, Liz McColgan. “We all have our part to play, no matter how big or how little,” Karen encouragingly states.
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Sipping on her very well-made decaf cappuccino, courtesy of Magnolia Bakery, Karen shares, “We recently held an event on how to start a blog with Doha’s top blogger, Rachel Morris, as our members showed great interest in this area.” Karen and her team will be introducing a ‘Newbie Program’ starting in October 2015. “Well, I need to come up with a better name for the program than the ‘Newbie Program’,” she giggles. “The ‘Newbie Program’ is a means to encouraging cross-cultural understanding,” she continues. “It will be a four-week rolling program every month. The first session will be an introduction on how to learn Arabic – not teach Arabic – but how to direct people who would like to learn Arabic through different options. The second session will encompass a coffee morning with expat and Qatari women allowing for an understanding to be forged from the beginning. The third session will assist members on how to find a suitable job in Qatar. The fourth session will be a cultural journey encouraging our members to familiarize themselves with Qatar’s culture, be it visiting Katara, Fanar, and so on.” “Our sessions are currently in English but we look to introduce Arabic into the sessions very soon, at least in the way of introductions. We need more integration. People appreciate the fact that we are guests in Qatar and it’s important for us to help people embrace the cultural understanding. All our meetings are ladies-only and are alcoholfree.” QPWN is keen on creating alliances and partnerships with local organizations. “We are working on tying in with the Bedaya [Centre] in order to offer sessions in Arabic. We are partnering with organizations like Fanar, Katara, Doha Toastmasters and various others to further the mission to help support and develop professional women in Qatar.” QPWN provides an in depth-mentoring program called The Circle of Pearl, where mentors and mentees are invited to a six-month program. After reviewing the applications, members are matched based on specific needs and requirements. Members are free to arrange meetings on their own time allowing a flexible yet intense schedule. Over the course of the year, there’s a dinner for all participants to take part in a larger networking event. Women who may feel they have not found their niche in Qatar will find the monthly membership program valuable. “It’s really important that one establishes their core values, because if you don’t understand your values, then the balance you’re looking for in life versus career will be virtually impossible,” Karen explains. “We practice a general exercise asking women to write down their six core values, and then narrow them down to three. From there, one can work out how to create life to reflect that balance.” Meetings are scheduled from 6:00 p.m. till 8:00 p.m., leaving room for a flexible schedule for non-working and working women alike. Women of all ages are welcome and QPWN’s numbers are growing significantly every month. Those interested in joining the QPWN journey, can visit the website and join for free. “We would love for people to come along for this journey and join QPWN in its efforts in Qatar.”
at QPWN's Karen (centre) receives an award contributions of Dream Big event, honouring the leaders unity female entrepreneurs and comm
Upcoming Events: • Introducing QPWN Book Club with a twist (books on personal/ professional development) • July: Ramadan iftar • July/August: A number of small events (visit their Facebook page for details) • September: Dress for Success event with speaker Elisabete Reis (Glam Your Image founder) • October: ‘Newbie Program’ initiates • November: Celebrating Five-Year QPWN Anniversary (stay tuned!) • Keep an eye out for events on Women in Oil and Gas n
For more information on QPWN visit www.qpwn.org, or email qatarpwn@gmail.com and karen@karenkennaby.com. QPWN can also be found on Facebook and LinkedIn under Qatar Professional Women’s Network. (Follow Facebook for up-to-date announcements and events). Twitter handle: @QPWN.
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COMMUNITY
Is Your Child Ready For Overnight Camping? By Jacqueline Bodnar
Although most camps have an age requirement, it’s a good idea for a parent to assess the individual child to see if they’re ready emotionally and socially. They should also be able to perform basic hygiene tasks as well as being able to dress themselves.
As summer approaches, the overnight camping buzz grows louder. Many children will experience their first overnight Change of Heart camping trip as families travel your home is perfectly natural for home to cooler climates in escape “Missing our campers,” says Nicole Schossow, an from Qatar’s searing summer heat. outdoor program specialist and camp director Part of making it a good experience for the US-based Girl Scouts of the Sierra Nevada. those campers who come home at the is making sure your little ones are “Even end of camp and are bursting with excitement ready for their first big excursion probably experience homesickness their first night at camp.” away from Mom and Dad. Ready or Not “Age is just one factor in determining readiness for an overnight camping experience,” says Julie Stein, the director of Walton’s Grizzly Lodge Summer Camps located in the High Sierra north of the USA’s Lake Tahoe. “Parents should also consider the personality of their child and the amount of experience the child has had sleeping away from home.” An overnight camp shouldn’t be the first place a child tries sleeping away from home. For children that haven’t attended an overnight camp consider starting with a day-camp. That way they can get an idea of what camp is like. You can also try starting out with an overnight camp that allows an adult to attend.
The difference in a child heading home after one night and learning to enjoy the experience is in how the camp staff and parents handle the situation. Regardless of what camp a child attends, the staff should be well-trained in how to handle such situations. They should know how to work with the child to acknowledge their concerns and help them work through it to enjoy the experience. “A good camp director will be able to redirect your child and get them involved with friends and activities quickly,” explains Stein.
Making it a Success There are steps you can take to help make sure it’s an enjoyable overnight camping trip.
• Research what each camp offers to make sure you find a good fit for your child. • Read all the information provided by the camp including the list of what to pack. • Work with camp staff when your child is experiencing homesickness. • Talk to your child about any fears they may have and what they can expect at camp. • Get your camper involved by helping to choose the camp and prepare for their journey. • Avoid telling your child they can come home after trying it for a couple of days. That keeps them from really giving it a chance and getting the most out of camp. • Research the safety guidelines and procedures of the camp you choose. Don’t hesitate to inquire about their staff hiring selection process. Overnight camping makes memories that will last a lifetime. Only you and your child know if it’s time for that first overnight experience. “The right camp will put your camper first and work with you to make sure your camper is happy, healthy, safe and comes home with a smile on their face and a song in their heart,” says Schossow. n
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COMMUNITY
Listings
Community Guide Australian and New Zealand Business in Qatar Group
QH RECOMMENDS
6651-1892 www.anzbiq.org
American Women’s Association 5511-8085 www.awaqatar.com
Doha Players
4447-4911 Search ‘Doha Players Lovers’ Group on Facebook
Egyptian Women’s Association
MUSEUM OF ISLAMIC ART Ramadan Summer Camps 2015
Until July 2: MIA Education Building. Join in for a week-long summer camp looking at Islamic Art. Each day children will study a different aspect of art, based on MIA’s exceptional collection of objects spanning 1,400 years and three continents. Includes geometry, maps, astrolabes, calligraphy and print-making and the subjects they support (mathematics, geography, science, Islamic studies and history). Open for 5-7 year-olds and 8-11 year-olds. Registration fee is QR 600. For more information or to register visit www.qm.org.qa/education.
ONE OF A KIND
EVERY WEEK
KATARA Q Talent Store
DOHA MUMS Expectant & New Mums Coffee
Now Open: Gate 17, Katara beachside. Q Talent is a local company that focuses on finding, connecting and promoting Qatari talented youth. They provide services for employers who are looking for Qatari talent, while providing opportunities for young artists and entrepreneurs to grow and prosper. The Q Talent store features clothing, books, arts and crafts, perfumes, accessories and more – all designed, produced and created by local young artists. For more information find them on Facebook or visit www.qtalent.com.
QATAR ANIMAL WELFARE SOCIETY Become A Volunteer
Ongoing: Whether you’re a pet-owner or simply a lover of animals – especially those in need, the Qatar Animal Welfare Society (QAWS) is always looking for volunteers to help out. With up to 100 animals in their care, every hour of donated volunteer time counts. Whether it’s dog-walking, animal socialization, kennel cleaning or administrative work, QAWS could use the extra hand. For more information on becoming a volunteer call 5539-6074 or visit www.qaws.org.
LADIES OF HARLEY Saturday Ride
July 4: Harley-Davidson Shop. The Ladies of Harley meet the first Saturday of each month at 6:00 p.m. at the dealership on Salwa Road. Any female Harley-Davidson enthusiast, either rider or passenger, who enjoys socializing and becoming involved with like-minded women can become a member. For more information visit the Ladies Of Harley Facebook page.
Thursdays: Whether you’re eagerly anticipating the arrival of your first child, or have just welcomed your fifth, please join the Doha Mums to talk about all things baby! This coffee group takes place every Thursday from 9:30 a.m. till 11:30 a.m. Please note that during Ramadan the meeting will be held at the Radisson Blu hotel on July 2, 9 and 16. They will resume at the usual locations which alternate between Quick Bites at the Marriott Marquis City Center Doha and Starbucks in Hyatt Plaza Mall from July 23. For more information visit www.dohamums.com or email rsvp@dohamums.com.
DOHA GARDEN CLUB The Green Box
Ongoing: Gardening gurus and green-thumbs rejoice! The Doha Garden Club is now offering members a 10% discount on Green Box home deliveries valid until September 30, 2014. Filled with locally-sourced fruits, vegetables and poultry, the Green Box comes to your home twice a week so that you and your family can enjoy the health benefits of fresh produce. The Garden Club is also planning their next field trip for members on April 20. For more information visit www.dohagardenclub.com to become a member or visit www.thegreenbox.me.
5572-4171
French-Speaking Ladies Group 5559-7467
Indian Women’s Association 4442-4052
Qatar National Cancer Society 4447-8128 www.qncs.org
Red Dotters Qatar
5520-9294 Follow @RedDottersQatar on Twitter
Silver Dhow Association 4435-2598
Turkish Women’s Association www.twaq.org
Tuesday Ladies Group Email: tlgindoha@gmail.com
SASCOM: South Africans In Qatar
www.southafricansinqatar.netfirms.com
Canadians In Qatar
Search ‘Canadians In Qatar’ Group on Facebook to join the community
online! See us arhappening.com www.qat
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FOOD & DINING
Top Picks
KEMPINSKI RESIDENCES & SUITES Summer Melon Menu Ongoing: Aroma. Executive Chef Vinon Yergu has created a new summer menu with a creative melon twist. Taste delicate melon flavours in appetizers, salads, main courses and desserts. For more information call 4405-3325, email restaurants.doha@kempinski.com, or visit www.kempinski.com/doha.
THE ANVIL ROOMS New York Restaurant Week
July 21-August 15: The Anvil Rooms. Every summer and winter, New York City restaurants participate in Restaurant Week. To celebrate the legacy, The Anvil Rooms will be offering a three-course menu at lunchtime for QR 91, and at dinner for QR 138. For more information call 4499-0685
THE GRAND HYATT Ramadan Activities
Until Eid: Majlis. The philosophy of Majlis is to provide an environment imbued with warm Arabian hospitality that embraces and puts a spin on Arabian mezze. During the Holy Month of Ramadan, diners can enjoy Majlis favourites from dusk until 2:00 am. For more information call 4448-1253, or 3029-3748.
DOHA MARRIOTT New Business Lunch
MARSA MALAZ KEMPINSKI Curry Fridays
Fridays: Sawa. Every Friday evening, the buffet at Sawa hosts original recipes with curry, taking you on a culinary journey over Southeast Asia.QR 190 per person. From 6:00 p.m. till 10:30 p.m. For more information call 4035-5011, email restaurants.marsamalaz@kempinski.com, or visit www.kempinski.com/marsamalaz.
Sun-Thurs (Open during Ramadan): Corniche Restaurant. Enjoy a light lunch in a bright setting at Corniche Restaurant with their new Express Business Lunch. With a weekly menu rotation, sample Mediterranean favourites and regional specialties with highlights including homemade tortellini, Oriental skewers and classic lamb flatbread. QR 95. From 12:00 noon till 3:00 p.m. For more information call 4429-8499.
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FOOD & DINING
A Hidden Gem By Jorge Granda Photography by Jessie Palanca
Tucked away inside the Al Jomrok Boutique Hotel in Souq Waqif is Al Shurfa Arabic Lounge, a restaurant that offers a great variety of different and delicious dishes from every corner of the world. QH whets our appetite one hearty lunch-hour.
I
t could be suggested that a number of diners in Doha tend to overlook the restaurants located inside Souq Waqif Boutique Hotels, which is a shame because they’re fantastic. I’ve been to several of them and have been more than impressed – not only the food is terrific, but the service superb and the décor comfy and welcoming.
One of these hidden treasures I’m talking about is Al Shurfa Arabic Lounge in Al Jomrok Boutique Hotel. ‘Al shurfa’ means ‘terrace’ in English, and that’s exactly what you get – a beautiful, open space overlooking the stunning Corniche. The interior decoration is simple, but cozy and very appealing – if you go during the day, the light that comes through the windows makes you feel like you’re at the beach. When I hear the name Al Shurfa, I’m under the impression that the restaurant would only offer Arabic dishes – but to our pleasant surprise, it’s the complete opposite. The variety of dishes offered on the menu are impressive – you get everything and anything from Japanese cuisine and salads, to pasta, sandwiches, and pizzas. We start our lunch with a yasai salad. This Japanese green salad enlightens the palate with its freshness. The dressing and tofu bring out the best of the vegetables and with a miso-soy dressing it’s a tangy start to our meal.
Restaurant Manager Uddhav then brings us tortelloni di ricotta, spinaci e taleggio and a maccheroni con ragu’ di agnello. The homemade stuffed spinach tortelloni, bursting with ricotta and Taleggio cheese with arugula pesto sauce is of an unbelievably high quality. The smooth richness of the sauce balances so well with the hints of pesto and ricotta. I appreciate the work the chef put in to this dish and will remember the bold flavours of this tortelloni for a long time. The homemade macaroni pasta with lamb ragoût and pecorino cheese is another outstanding option. The lamb is cooked nice and pink which is great – you’ve got something meaty, savoury and sweet and it’s a decadent little follow-up to the tortelloni. A classic combination of sauce and macaroni, it looks gorgeous on the plate while the beautiful flavour coming through the sauce is phenomenal and punchy.
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Salmon sashimi with edible flowers
Fresh from the wood-oven, their pizzas bubble with flavour and rich colour
Japanese sushi delights
We continue with a pizza topped with grilled vegetables and goat’s cheese. The combination of the sharp sauce and the pungency of the goat cheese is lovely, while the crust is delicate and crispy. The sauce is spot-on – wellbalanced and full of flavour, simply a filling, wonderful dish. I can say the same about the pizza tacchino e funghi (tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, turkey, and mushrooms). In between we’re also given a club sandwich and a grilled halloumi sandwich – standard diner fare. They’re both nicelyprepared, and examples of the proliferation of dishes on offer. We finish our feast with an assortment of Japanese maki rolls by Chef Alex Adani that include California rolls, unagi, shrimp tempura and some nigiri sushi. The presentation is beautiful – we can tell the amount of work the Chef Alex put in to this dish, each one rolled perfectly to look immaculate.
AL SHURFA ARABIC LOUNGE Location: 2nd Floor, Al Jomrok Boutique Hotel, Souq Waqif
Succulent maccheroni con ragul di agnello
Al Shurfa is a beautiful restaurant that offers quality food and a great ambiance for adventurous foodies who want to explore the offerings in the Souq from a new perspective. No matter what you’re in the mood to eat, a visit to Al Shurfa will make sure you find it. Restaurant Manager Uddhav has a clear passion for quality and customer satisfaction and his personalized service made the experience even more enjoyable. n
Timings: • 1:00 p.m. till 1:00 a.m., weekdays • 1:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m., weekends Please note that timings may change during Ramadan Average Meal Price: • Yasai salad, QR 45 • Club sandwich, QR 60 • Grilled halloumi sandwich, QR 50 • Pastas, QR 60 & QR 65 • Pizzas, QR 55 & QR 60 Licensed: No Smoking: Yes, including shisha Outdoor Seating: Yes Contact Info: Call 4433-6666 or visit www.swbh.com/dining
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FOOD & DINING
The Spice Route By Ashlee Starratt Photography by Jessie Palanca
From the fiery flavours of Goa to the sweetly rich curries of Kashmir, we relish every bite of the Indian subcontinent at the Radisson Blu’s Bombay Balti.
I
ndia. With its Bollywood colours, divergent landscapes, myriad dialects and sheer breadth of culture, it’s no wonder its cuisine is as diverse as the 1.2 billion people who overspill its 29 states. If the Ganges and the Bhramaputra are the arteries of the subcontinent, bringing nourishment to its paddies, fields and plantations, then surely the spices harvested with the waters of these ancient rivers are its life force. North to south, no two regional mixtures are the same – chili, black cardamom, mustard seed, fenugreek, curry leaf, charoli, saffron, mace – their use in each local dish imparts a different flavour and tells a unique story of a people and their culture. Doha has no shortage of Indian home restaurants – head to Muntazah or Najma and the shop-front windows practically heave with electric signage advertising each kitchen’s regional specialty. However, trying to find a selection from each corner
of India under one roof can elude even the most avid spice-lover…unless you happen to find yourself at the corner of C-Ring and Salwa Roads, staring at the golden bricks of the Radisson Blu. With a tidy sum of 12 restaurants, the hotel’s Bombay Balti is one of its most-favoured. On any given night you can saunter down the grand staircase that divides the space it shares with Far East counterpart Ruby Wu’s, and see a healthy variety of diverse clientele. We decided to head over to grab dinner on a Tuesday night around 7:00 p.m. and when it came time to leave there wasn’t a table left empty. The space is vast, with the colours of the Indian flag streaming across the ceiling in ribbons as wide as ship sails and jade elephants standing sentinel at the foot of the stairs. The décor is dark, varnished wood and the layout of booths and tables surprisingly intimate, retaining a sense of privacy in spite of the open concept. Restaurant Manager Kumar seats us near the galley kitchen window where already pans are sizzling and curry pots bubbling. Tonight we’ll be sampling a selection of appetizers from the tandoori grill along with some vegetarian options and a sampler of Bombay Balti’s best curries. First to arrive is a platter of veggie samosas, pakoras and dal vadas. Piping hot, they emit an enticing
aroma of Indian herbs before our forks even pierce the golden crusts. The samosas are fluffy pillows of curried potato, carrot and peas; flecked with mustard seeds they go nicely with the light coconut raita dipping sauce. The dal vadas are also a treat; a blend of chickpeas, dal, onions and coriander, they’re fried into crispy patties that burst with spice on the first bite. We’re also served a tandoori platter of chicken, hammour and prawns, plus some decadent minced lamb patties redolent of cumin and cinnamon. The prawns and chicken were a hit – with just the right amount of charring from the grill and caked in a silky-sweet paste of spice blends. Kumar recommends we drizzle a few spoonfuls of the yogurt-mint raita overtop to add a creamy-cool depth of flavour to each morsel. After cleansing our palates with some glasses of fresh carrot juice, we see the platter with our mains approaching, stacked with the restaurant’s namesake silver ‘balti’ curry buckets. Chef Surender Kumar and Chef Yogesh have prepared a variety of five of their signature selections served with a side of vegetable pulao rice and chewy garlic naan bread, dripping with ghee. There’s a tureen of succulent prawn madras curry, Punjabi lamb rogan josh, the creamiest chicken tikka curry we’ve come across, fragrant aloo gobi, and fire-engine red spicy Goan chicken vindaloo.
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Bombay Balti's savoury tandoori platter had us licking our fingers down to the last piece
A traditional spice drawer lends a market atmosphere to the ambiance.
Served in traditional baltis – or 'buckets' – we savoured every s morsel from this caravan of currie
Though all five curries represent dishes from different regions of India, (all fully surpassing our hungry expectations), the standouts for this foodwriter are the chicken tikka curry, the vindaloo and the aloo gobi. A traditional style of curry, the tikka offers up plump morsels of tandoor-grilled chicken breast in a golden-yellow gravy dotted with leaves of coriander. Its flavour is sweet, sumptuous and not too spicy for those that shy away from heat. A dry preparation, the aloo gobi is a vegetarian dish of soft potato and cauliflower tossed with a paste of Indian spices. Its taste is rich with notes of cardamom, tomato, curry leaf and the stinging tang of freshly-roasted chilis. But, for lovers of blow-your-nose, cry-your-eyes-out spice, the Goan chicken vindaloo is your start and end-point. Its bright colour is due to the amount of chilis in the gravy and at first glance can be alarming to the uninitiated. I adore my curries as spicy as they
come, but the one risk you run as a spice-lover is having the burn overpower the flavour. This is not the case with the vindaloo. The complexity of its components remains intact, and under the heat of the chilis are sweet undertones of cinnamon or mace to balance the punch it packs. As we linger over our simple desserts of carrot gajar ka halwa and cardamom-scented kulfi ice cream, I’m reminded of why I keep coming back to this restaurant when the craving for Indian hits. The efficient, friendly service, down-to-earth ambiance and a menu as diverse as India itself makes for a well-rounded introduction to a cuisine that sustains more than a billion people. I’ve not yet had the experience of traveling to the subcontinent…but I’ll always have Bombay Balti to fuel my ardour for Indian. And what the stomach demands, the heart and mind would do well to follow. n
Lamb rogan josh, chicken tikka curry and Goan chicken vindaloo
Bombay Balti Restaurant Location: Lower level, east wing, Radisson Blu Timings: 6:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. daily Average Meal Price: • QR 30-QR 95, appetizers • QR 72-QR 135, main curries • QR 27, desserts Licensed: Yes, except during Ramadan Smoking: Yes Contact Info: Call 4428-1555 or visit www.radissonblu.com
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FOOD & DINING
Chef Marco snips some fresh basil to add to the stock
A beautifully-plated portion of pasta carries a balance of acidity and sweetness from the lobster and cherry tomatoes
Chef Marco's Table Photography by Jessie Palanca
Nothing says summer than breezy days by the shore. So for July, Il Teatro’s Chef Marco Arlotti of The Four Seasons brings us some truly coastal cuisine with a lush recipe for toothsome rigatoni mixed with fresh Canadian lobster!
Rigatoni with Lobster, Cherry Tomatoes and Basil
Ingredients: • 100gms rigatoni pasta • 40gms Canadian lobster (cut into medallions) • 10gms garlic • 10gms banana shallot • 5gms basil leaf • 100gms cherry tomatoes • 70gms shellfish bisque • Dash of extra virgin olive oil
For the shellfish bisque • One shellfish head like a Canadian lobster, red prawn or crab • 400gms lobster • 50gms onion • 50gms banana shallot • 50gms fennel • 50gms carrot • 50gms celery • 10gms butter • 40gms dill • 40gms basil • 20gms tomato paste • Tsp of butter • 2kgs ice cubes • Salt and pepper to taste Preparation: For the bisque In a boiling pan slowly sauté the shellfish in butter; then, add all the vegetables and the tomato paste, cooking on low heat for 20 minutes. After simmering, add 2kg of ice to cool it down and condense the liquid; then bring to a boil once again for 20 minutes before switching off the heat. Add the basil and dill and let the bisque rest for 45 minutes. Strain the contents of the pan, keeping only the jus. Put the jus back on the heat until the quantity is reduced down to half. Finish with a dash of salt and pepper. For the rigatoni Place a large sauce-pan over medium-high heat. Add the extra virgin olive oil, the banana shallot and garlic, heating until the garlic becomes golden. Toss in the fresh cherry tomatoes, lobster medallions and carefully pour in the bisque, letting everything cook for about two minutes. Put the rigatoni to boil in water for two minutes then toss the pasta into the pan with the sauce to finish cooking. Plate the rigatoni and add some sprigs of fresh basil leaves and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil to garnish. Serve immediately. n Cooking classes with Chef Marco are available every last Saturday of the month for QR 500, including a four-course lunch menu. For reservations call 4494-8600.
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FOOD & DINING
Word Of Mouth
Photography by Jessie Palanca
This column is part of a monthly contest where we send one of our readers to experience a meal in a restaurant. It’s our way of giving the community a voice in our pages. This month Ayesha Tariq samples the Arabic delicacies at Orient Pearl Restaurant on the Corniche. Here is her review. QH: What did you order? AT: Appetizers & Drinks: • Hummus • Moutabel • 1 lemon mint • 1 orange juice Main course: • 1 order of grilled lamb chops • 1 mixed grill • 1 order of chicken kebab Dessert: • 2 orders of Syrian ice cream
QH: Were the prices reasonable? Cheese fatayer
AT: The prices were indeed high, especially for the lamb chops as the serving (for this specific dish) was small, and a big water bottle cost QR 20 which – in my opinion – is very high. Below are the prices for all the items we ordered: • Hummus, QR 30 • Moutabel, QR 30 • 1 order of grilled lamb chops, QR 110 • 1 mixed grill, QR 120 • 1 order of chicken kebab, QR 90 • 2 Syrian ice cream, QR 40 each • 1 orange juice, QR 30 • 1 lemon mint, QR 35 • 1 large water, QR 20 QH: Describe the ambiance. AT: The ambiance was great – the restaurant is beautiful from the inside and out. There’s a big, colourful fountain and a children's play-area outside. They also have an outdoor seating area which is great for winters. And it’s luxurious from the inside with great furnishings, beautiful décor, and you can also get a great view of the Corniche if you’re seated on the first floor. Very family friendly...so I loved it.
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QH: Describe the quality of the food. AT: The food was delicious and cooked to perfection. I especially loved moutabel and the mixed grill. I have had these in so many other restaurants in Doha and these were the best I’ve tasted so far. QH: Describe the quality of the service. AT: I will have to give the service quality three stars. The waiters didn’t have much know-how of the menu. When asked about the restaurant’s special dishes, he didn't know or maybe because he couldn't speak English fluently – there was a communication gap. QH: Would you go back? Why/why not?
Contest winner Ayesha Tariq (far right) and her family post with Chef Haddad K.H.
AT: Yes – occasionally. The restaurant is great, the food is delicious, and it has a very nice and relaxing atmosphere...but the only setback is that it’s expensive. The cost for two people is around QR 350-400 which can make you re-think about going back very often.
the With its prime positioning along in light Corniche, the Orient Pearl is awash ains as night falls amidst its fount
QH: Favourite thing about the restaurant? AT: The ambiance wins it. The restaurant is beautifully decorated, the view is magnificent with the colourful fountain and all the decorated trees and, of course, the beautiful Corniche. QH: Least favourite thing about the restaurant? AT: The service. I think the serving staff should be proficient in English as there is a large population of expats here in Qatar who don't understand Arabic. And they should be more trained about the restaurant's menu. QH: Was there a special touch or flair to the experience? AT: Since I had won this dinner from Qatar Happening, it made this experience really special. QH: Could the overall experience be improved? If so, how? AT: Yes, the service as I mentioned above can be improved and, if possible, the cost of the basic things like water and sodas should come down. In my opinion this will be a huge improvement and will do good for the restaurant. n
Fresh hummus
For more information on Orient Pearl Restaurant call 4410-6666/77, email info@orientpearlqatar.com, or visit www.orientpearlqatar.com.
Zesty fattoush salad
Savoury kibbeh rounds out a selection of mezze
Editor’s Note: The views and opinions expressed in our reader reviews do not reflect in any way those of Qatar Happening Magazine’s staff, directors, management or Editor-in-Chief. All hotel PR food and beverage departments are aware of the content and receive a copy.
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FOOD & DINING
THE RITZ-CARLTON Festive Eid
A Taste Of Eid
We’re half-way through the Holy Month and we hope you’re enjoying every iftar and suhoor along the way! With just over two weeks to go, evenings are still jam-packed with feasting and celebrations – with more than a few special Eid Al Fitr events on the horizon. QH has them all here!
EID SPECIAL PROMOTIONS INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA THE CITY Eid Dinner
1st Day of Eid: Al Jawhara Ballroom. Celebrate the first day of Eid with dinner and drinks with friends and family in the stunning Al Jawhara Ballroom. Enjoy a wide variety of international popular dishes on the buffet from 6:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. along with your favourite house beverages. QR 300 including selected house beverages, or QR 230 inclusive of soft drinks and mocktails. For more information call 4015-8888, or email doharestaurants@ihg.com.
LA CIGALE Eid Buffet
1st & 2nd Day of Eid: Gather with your family and friends around a delectable buffet and savour a wide variety of international, traditional and Lebanese specialties for QR 290 per person. For more information call 4428-8888.
MARRIOTT MARQUIS CITY CENTER DOHA Eid Indulgence
3 Days Of Eid: Ipanema &Crossroads Kitchen. Celebrate the special occasion of Eid with brunch for all three days at Ipanema and Crossroads Kitchen. QR 155 at Crossroads and QR 265 at Ipanema. For more information call 4419-6100 or visit www.marriottmarquisdohadining.com.
THE GRAND HYATT Celebrate Eid
1st & 2nd Day of Eid: The Grill. Don’t miss their lavish lunch and dinner buffet with a variety of international cuisines on the first day of Eid, and a lunch buffet on the second day for QR 280 per person. For more information call 4448-1240.
1st Day of Eid: Lagoon Restaurant. Celebrate a festive Eid Al-Fitr brunch for memorable moments with family and friends at the Lagoon. Guests can look forward to a buffet spread like no other. This feast for the senses includes carving stations from different cuisines of the region, as well as an array of fresh salads and tempting desserts. Adults QR 350 inclusive of soft beverages, kids buffet at QR 175, with their own junior buffet and entertainment. For more information call 4484-8000, or email rc.dohrz.leads@ritzcarlton.com.
THE ST. REGIS DOHA Eid Brunch
1st & 2nd Day of Eid: Vine. Gather with friends and family to celebrate this special occasion at Vine. Enjoy the beginning of Eid with the best food selection and live entertainment. First day of Eid: QR 320 inclusive of soft drinks; second day of Eid: QR 320 inclusive of soft beverages or QR 420 with enhanced beverages. For more information call 4446-0105, or e-mail diningreservations@stregis.com.
W DOHA Eid Brunch
2nd Day of Eid: Market. Gather friends and family for a sumptuous and entertainment-filled Eid brunch at Market by Jean-Georges. QR 295 per person including selected soft drinks and QR 410 per person including house beverages. For more information call 4453-5000.
WYNDHAM GRAND REGENCY A Moroccan Eid
1st & 2nd Day of Eid: Tangia Restaurant. Enjoy a traditional Moroccan lunch buffet at Tangia Restaurant for only QR 250 per person. From 12:00 noon till 3:30 p.m. For more information call 4434-3203/3333, or email wgrf&b@wyndham.com.
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INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA THE CITY Iftar & Suhoor
Al Jawhara Ballroom: Celebrate Ramadan at a delicious iftar with friends and family in the Al Jawhara Ramadan Tent. It will exude the spirit of the Holy Month from the elegant décor and traditional cuisine, to the live Arabic entertainment during suhoor. Iftar buffet is QR 225 including Ramadan beverages from sunset till 9:00 p.m. Suhoor buffet is QR 250 including Ramadan beverages from 9:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. Shisha will be served during both iftar and suhoor. For more information call 4015-8888, or email doharestaurants@ihg.com.
LA CIGALE Iftar
REGULAR RAMADAN PROMOTIONS DOHA MARRIOTT Iftar
Restaurant Gallery: Come along with friends and family and savour the Chef’s speciallyprepared Arabic sweets and traditional hot dishes. Enjoy the souq-style décor and marvel at the biggest iftar buffet in town. With more than 100 dishes to choose from, create a wonderful celebration together and make long-lasting memories in honour of Ramadan. Selection of dishes include Moroccan tagine, traditional kharouf, live falafel station, Persian BBQ and live shawarma station. QR 215. From 5:30 p.m. till 9:00 p.m. For more information call 4429-8499.
INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA Iftar
Coral: Delight your palate with succulent Ramadan dishes at Coral for QR 225. From sunset till 12:00 midnight. For more information call 4484-4444.
Le Cigalon Restaurant: Reunite with your beloved ones for a unique buffet iftar experience and savour a wide array of mezze, salads, traditional and international delights, complemented by tantalizing desserts at QR 220 per person. Special discounts will be applicable for groups of 15 people and above. For more information call 4428-8698.
Suhoor
Ramadan Tent: This Ramadan surround yourself in authentic traditions at Qatar’s finest tent and savour a lavish suhoor buffet with a variety of Oriental and international dishes, live cooking stations and a succulent desserts section while enjoying flavoursome shisha. Buffet price at QR 250 per person. Special discounts and inclusions will be applicable for groups of 20 people and above. For more information call 4428-8809/10.
MARRIOTT MARQUIS CITY CENTER DOHA Iftar & Suhoor
Wanassa Ramadan Tent: Break your fast with your favourite delicacies in the exquisite setting of Wanassa, the perfect place to experience the Holy Month of Ramadan. Indulge in traditional Arabian dishes, interactive cooking stations, live Oud music, shisha selection and traditional Ramadan beverages. Iftar is QR 235 from sunset till 9:00 p.m., and suhoor is QR 245 from 10:00 p.m. till 1:30 p.m. For more information call 4419-6100 or visit www.marriottmarquisdohadining.com.
MARSA MALAZ KEMPINSKI A Palatial Ramadan
Ramadan Tent: Welcome to Marsa Malaz Kempinski’s palatial iftar together with family and friends. Enjoy a delicious buffet with live cooking stations and multiple cuisines. QR 240 per person, with VIP tables for eight people at QR 3,000. Children up to six years-old enjoy the buffet free of charge, while children from 6 to 12 pay half-price. From sunset till 8:00 p.m. For more information call 4035-5555.
Suhoor
Ramadan Tent: Marsa Malaz Kempinski’s palatial suhoor is a regal affair. The exquisite buffet has live cooking stations and offers multiple cuisines. QR 290 per person, with VIP tables for eight people at QR 3,000. Children up to six years-old enjoy the buffet free of charge, while children from 6 to 12 pay half-price. For more information call 4035-5555.
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FOOD & DINING RADISSON BLU Iftar
Hyde Park: Hyde Park Coffee Shop is an all-day dining restaurant with a warm ambiance. An abundance of natural light and relaxed seating provides an easy familiarity which makes guests feel welcome at any time of the day. The coffee shop offers an a la carte menu and international buffet. Choose from a cornucopia of dishes on a specially-prepared iftar buffet that’s loaded with vegetarian, fish and meat options. The meal is served daily from sunset until 11:00 p.m. throughout the Holy Month for only QR 140. For more information email fbreservations.doha@radissonblu.com.
SHARQ VILLAGE & SPA
Magic of Ramadan Al Dasha Ballroom: For an authentic Arabian experience, enter the majestic magic of the Sharq Village & Spa ballroom to enjoy a lavish buffet. From 8:30 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. For more information call 4425-6666.
SHERATON DOHA Suhoor
Ramadan Tent: The gracious traditions of the season come to life in the Ramadan Tent, welcoming guests with warm service amid iconic interiors and sparkling chandeliers. Families and friends can bask in true Arabian hospitality with a sumptuous suhoor buffet throughout the Holy Month. Succulent dates, favourite Arabic delicacies, including specialty beverages, mezze, salads, grilled meats and aromatic coffees make up a generous iftar buffet to be savoured until late in the night. QR 290. From 8:30 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. For more information call 4485-3000.
THE FOUR SEASONS Ramadan Favourites
Seasons Tea Lounge: When tradition meets modernity, Seasons Tea Lounge is offering an array of Ramadan favourites to enjoy during the Holy Month. Prices start from QR 45. Available daily during Ramadan from iftar until 2:00 a.m. For more information call 4494-8888.
THE GRAND HYATT Ramadanak – A Grand Ramadan
Ramadan Tent: Located in the heart of its Arabian palace, the Ramadanak tent returns this year. The hotel’s full atrium will be converted into an Arabian palace, while the chefs de cuisine from the acclaimed restaurants will join forces to offer an international buffet featuring flavours to cater to all tastes. Book an iftar or suhoor buffet for QR 250 and indulge in the selection of international and Arabian choices. For more information call 4448-1234.
THE ST. REGIS DOHA Ramadan Menu
Sarab Lounge: Offering a special Ramadan menu for iftar and suhoor with a sophisticated selection of traditional Arabic recipes. From sunset till 1:00 a.m. For more information call 4446-0105, or e-mail diningreservations@stregis.com.
W DOHA Sultan’s Tent
Great Room: The Sultan’s Tent will offer live food stations, extended Arabic buffet, live Ramadan band and shisha menu. Iftar doors will open at 6:00 p.m. till 8:30 p.m. QR 230 per person. Suhoor runs from 9:15 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. QR 285 per person. Free for children below 6 years-old and a 50% discount for children below 12 years-old. Price includes freeflow of soft drinks, Ramadan juices, water, Arabic coffee and Moroccan tea. A 20% discount will apply for SPG card holders – for iftar only. For more information call 4453-5000.
WYNDHAM GRAND REGENCY Iftar & Suhoor
Al Qasr Ballroom: Book your iftar gathering in the Al Qasr Ballroom during the first 10 days of Ramadan and enjoy a lavish traditional iftar or suhoor buffet at QR 99 per person with a minimum of 130 people, subject to availability. For the remaining days of the Holy Month, book at QR 140 per person for groups with a minimum of 150 people. For more information call 4434-3203/3333, or email wgrf&b@wyndham.com.
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FOOD & DINING
Listings All listings are categorized per hotel. Inclusion is limited to availability of space, with priority given to advertisers.
QH RECOMMENDS
INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA Seafood Set Menus
Daily: Fish Market. Try the newest themed seafood set-menus featuring Lebanese, Asian or Mediterranean delicacies specially-prepared by their expert culinary team. Indulge your senses with the most delicious and authentic seafood prepared the way you like it. The seafood trio menu starts from QR 275 with Lebanese at QR 275, Asian at QR 375 and Mediterranean at QR 325, plus an additional QR 125 for unlimited bubbly, house and red vinos. For more information call 4445-5555.
Seafood Brunch
LA VARENNE French Country Brunch
Fridays: Indulge in La Varenne’s interpretation of a table-top brunch. Enjoy a full-course, all-youcare-to-eat menu with sharing-style dishes showcasing an array of the best La Varenne classics, along with their hors d'oeuvres and dessert trolleys. QR 179 for regular brunch and QR 379 per person with selected drinks. From 12:00 noon till 4:00 p.m. For more information call 4499-0680 or email reservations@lavarenne.qa.
Making it easier to navigate at your fingertips, we’ve categorized all our listings per outlet – including special offers and weekly/daily regular promotions.
REGULAR PROMOTIONS CHOWKING Indo-Chinese Menu &Value Meals
Daily: Tuck in to the new flavours at Chowking with their delectable Indo-Chinese menu. Also, enjoy dinner for two for QR 70-QR 80 including soft drinks. Available at all restaurant locations, serving the best taste at the best price. For more information call Delivery Hotline: 4431-1212, Mamoura: 4486-6077, Al Khor: 4411-8816/17, Salwa Road: 4437-1212, Al Sadd St.: 4431-4411, Holiday Villa Hotel: 4411-5225/5335.
DOHA MARRIOTT JW’s Steakhouse
Daily: Marriott’s signature restaurant and still the best in the city, JW’s Steakhouse offers an exclusive, upscale dining experience reflected in the sophisticated atmosphere and classic décor. JW’s main courses feature only the finest cuts of US Certified Prime Angus beef complemented by exquisite spices and sauces. Seafood and salad are also available. From 6:30 p.m. till 11:30 p.m. For more information call 4429-8499.
Some promotions may not be available during Ramadan. Please check with each outlet before making a reservation. Weekend Brunch
Fri & Sat: Restaurant Gallery. Discover an array of live stations and specialties featuring favourite dishes from around the globe. Highlights from the weekend brunch include a wide selection of fresh sushi, Peking duck, fajitas, Oriental grills, pizza, curries, biryanis, fresh seafood, ice cream and more. Now offering a kids’ club zone with a special kids’ buffet and activities. QR 270 for regular brunch and QR 375 for bubbly brunch. From 12:30 noon till 4:00 p.m.Will continue throughout Ramadan, but without alcohol. For more information call 4429-8499.
GRAND HERITAGE DOHA Modern Turkish Cuisine
Mon-Sat: Agora. Offering modern Turkish and Ottoman dishes inspired by the Black Sea and the Balkan regions, with Mediterranean touches. From 1:00 p.m. till 11:30 p.m. For more information call 4445-5555.
Family Brunch
Fridays: Blue. Enjoy a sophisticated brunch with special kids’ activities in the exclusively-designed area adjacent to the restaurant. QR 220 including one round of soft drinks. From 12:30 noon till 4:00 p.m. For more information call 4445-5555.
Fridays: Fish Market. Indulge in their luxurious buffet and market display featuring lobsters, oysters and tiger prawns. Choose from a wide range of beverage options to complement your meal while enjoying stunning views of the Arabian Sea and Doha’s skyline. QR 375 including unlimited house beverages, tea, coffee and juices. Kids’ package available at QR 160. Extended late Friday Brunch at QR 375 from 5:00 p.m. till 11:30 p.m. with unlimited house vinos and soft beverages. For more information call 4484-4919 or 4484-4444.
Romance Under The Stars
Daily: Fish Market. Enjoy dinner by the beach including a four-course, rich seafood menu with a bottle of exclusive Lanson Rose bubbly. QR 3,000 per couple with private butler service. For more information call 4484-4919 or 4484-4444.
INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA THE CITY Prime Cuisine Daily: Prime. Enjoy a delicious a la carte menu and soft beverages. Open daily during the month of Ramadan for dinner from 6:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4015-8888.
Asian Delights
Daily: Hwang. Enjoy the best Asian a la carte menu and soft beverages. Open daily during the month of Ramadan for lunch from 12:00 noon to 4:00 p.m. and dinner from 6:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4015-8888.
KEMPINSKI RESIDENCES & SUITES Signature Camel Burger
Daily: Aroma, The Lounge and Gourmet House. The talk-of-the-town signature camel burger is one of Kempinski’s best-selling food items known for its rich and distinctive combination of tastes that sets it apart from other burgers. For more information call 4405-3325, email restaurants.doha@kempinski.com, or visit www.kempinski.com/doha.
Steak & Vino Menu
Daily: Aroma. Enjoy the most succulent and tender steaks, perfectly combined with superb grilling, tasty accompaniments and a flawlessly matched glass of vino. From 7:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4405-3325, email restaurants.doha@kempinski.com, or visit www.kempinski.com/doha.
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Business Lunch
Sat-Thurs: Aroma. Aroma offers a creative business lunch menu by using fresh and locally-farmed ingredients. Mixing flavours from around the globe, a few dishes to name are the Apulian burrata, the Angus beef medallions and the sweet indulgence of a fruit-forest honey parfait. QR 95 per person from 12:00 noon till 3:00 p.m. For more information call 4405-3325, email restaurants.doha@kempinski.com, or visit www.kempinski.com/doha.
LA CIGALE International Cuisine
Daily: Le Cigalon. Indulge in an extravagant buffet breakfast, lunch and dinner with a la carte option available. Buffet breakfast is QR 130 and buffet lunch or dinner with live-cooking stations is QR 220 inclusive of American coffee or tea. From 6:30 a.m. till 11:30 p.m. Ramadan timings: iftar time till 11:30 p.m. and a la carte last order at 11:30 p.m. For more information call 4428-8698.
Sushi Mania
Daily: Yen Sushi Bar. Partake in the best sushi and sashimi served on a special rotating belt and colourcoded, plated formula along with an a la carte menu option as well. From 11:30 a.m. till 12:00 midnight. Ramadan timings: iftar till 12:30 a.m. For more information call 4428-8698.
LA VARENNE Rotisserie Night
Saturdays: Delight your taste-buds with an unlimited offering of rotisserie chicken, meat and fish with a selection of side orders for QR 179 per person. From 7:00 p.m. till 10:00 p.m. For more information call 4499-0680 or email reservations@lavarenne.qa.
Business Lunch
Sat-Thurs: Enjoy the most exquisite French business lunch in Doha with two courses for QR 85 and three courses for QR 95. For more information call 4499-0680 or email reservations@lavarenne.qa.
MARRIOTT MARQUIS CITY CENTER DOHA Smoking Beef
Daily: New York Steakhouse. For the first time in Doha, treat yourself to their bourbon-barrel, woodchip-smoked beef tartare, prepared and smoked by their brilliant hosts right in front of you! QR 105 from 6:30 p.m. till 11:30 p.m. For more information call 4419-6100 or visit www.marriottmarquisdohadining.com.
Three Countries, One Platter
Daily: New York Steakhouse. Taste three origins of beef tenderloin as Chef Jeremy Steele presents 100-gram cuts from the U.S.A, Argentina and Australia on one succulent plate. Treat yourself to three glasses of vino from each homeland carefully paired to perfection. QR 280 and QR 390 including vino pairing. From 6:30 p.m. till 11:30 p.m. For more information call 4419-6100 or visit www.marriottmarquisdohadining.com.
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FOOD & DINING Tomahawk – Can You Handle It?
Daily: New York Steakhouse. Can you handle the largest steak in Doha? This is definitely the talk of the town! Choose from 1kg or 2kgs of flavourful Tomahawk Wagyu rib-eye. QR 690 for 1kg and QR 1,280 for 2kgs. From 6:30 p.m. till 11:30 p.m. For more information call 4419-6100 or visit www.marriottmarquisdohadining.com.
Business Express Lunch
Sun-Thurs: Cucina. Choose from three entrées, three mains and three desserts made from the freshest Italian ingredients and served in 45 minutes or it’s on them – all for QR 85. From 12:00 noon till 3:00 p.m. For more information call 4419-6100 or visit www.marriottmarquisdohadining.com.
MARSA MALAZ KEMPINSKI Sawa Goes Mediterranean
Thursdays: Sawa. Every Thursday Sawa transforms in to a Mediterranean culinary haven. Explore a buffet with authentic starters, salads and cheeses from the region, grilled fish and meat, oysters, live pasta cooking stations and even real Italian gelato! QR 190 per person. From 6:00 p.m. till 10:30 p.m. For more information call 4035-5011, email restaurants.marsamalaz@kempinski.com, or visit www.kempinski.com/marsamalaz.
Saturday Roast Lunch Buffet Sawa. Taste an extensive buffet with live cooking stations and a delicious sweet corner, and enjoy your Saturday lunch-time with family and friends in the bright and ambient environment of Sawa. QR 190 per person, including soft drinks. From 12:30 noon till 4:00 p.m. For more information call 4035-5011, email restaurants.marsamalaz@kempinski.com, or visit www.kempinski.com/marsamalaz.
Tapeo After Work
Daily: El Faro. Enjoy your favourite beverage with a complimentary selection of inimitably authentic Spanish tapas and pintxos. From 5:00 p.m. till 7:00 p.m. For more information call 4035-5011, email restaurants.marsamalaz@kempinski.com, or visit www.kempinski.com/marsamalaz.
Paella Tuesdays
Tuesdays: El Faro. Every Tuesday, (or Martes in Spanish!) taste the only authentic paella in Doha and receive a complimentary pitcher of sangria. The offer is valid on every paella for two people. From 6:00 p.m. till 8:00 p.m. For more information call 4035- 5011, email restaurants.marsamalaz@kempinski.com, or visit www.kempinski.com/marsamalaz.
A Traditional Levantine Experience
Mon-Sat: Al Sufra. With a blend of traditional recipes and flavours from Lebanon, Cyprus, Syria, Jordan and Palestine, the Levant-inspired restaurant Al Sufra – ‘the dining room’ in Arabic – has a timeless charm. With a coffee lounge, open terrace with shisha, and a la carte dining, the restaurant can be visited any time throughout the day or evening. Dinner starts from 6:00 p.m. till 11:30 p.m. For more information call 4035-5011, or email restaurants.marsamalaz@kempinski.com, or visit www.kempinski.com/marsamalaz.
Listings Al Sufra Now Open For Lunch
Mon-Sat: Al Sufra. The rich traditional Arabic recipes of Al Sufra are now available for lunch. Have a relaxing break from work and indulge in comforting, home-made food, prepared by the expert culinary team at Al Sufra. From 12:30 noon till 3:30 p.m. For more information call 4035-5011, email restaurants.marsamalaz@kempinski.com, or visit www.kempinski.com/marsamalaz. Sawa, El Faro, Bohemia, Antica Pesa and Amwage will be closed throughout Ramadan and will reopen on the first day of Eid.
MÖVENPICK HOTEL DOHA Burger Express
Daily: L’Espresso. Why get one burger when you can have three? Stop by at L’Espresso, the bustling heart of the hotel, and dive into a tasty Burger Sampler. Three burgers – beef, chicken and veggie make for one hearty meal. This experience will leave nothing to be desired. Grab the Burger Sampler at L’Espresso for only QR 55. For more information call 4429-1111.
New & Inspired Theme Nights
Daily: Seasons Restaurant.Take your taste-buds on an exciting journey with a variety of new theme nights, plus some old favourites! Les Alpes Mondays The restaurant has combined the finest delicacies of France, Italy and Switzerland to fashion an exclusive gourmet event. QR 160 per person. Lebanese Tuesdays Savour enticing Middle Eastern delicacies combined with authentic drinks and desserts. QR 160 per person. TemptAsian Wednesdays Taste the creativity of the Japanese sushi or the tang of the Thai curry among many others. QR 160 per person. Seafood & Family Thursdays Tuck into a simply spectacular buffet of fresh and succulent seafood while the kids play their hearts out in the famous Kids Kingdom with an array of kiddie treats. QR 180 per person. Naughty Food Gone Good Fridays Enjoy all your tasty indulgences minus the guilt with an array of health- conscious junk food to choose from. QR 140 per person. International Saturdays & Sundays Indulge in a colourful collection of international creations. QR 140 per person. For more information on all promotions call 4429-1111.
Friday Family Brunch Indulge in an elegant yet casual experience with free-flowing bubbly and enchanting music to complement the tasty buffet delights including fresh seafood, live cooking and sushi, plus an endless assortment of appetizers and desserts. QR 215 per person with kids under the age of 12 dining free and those between the ages of twelve and sixteen receiving a 50% discount. Brunch with bubbles or suds for QR 245. For more information call 4429-1111.
New Tapas Galore Selection
Tuesdays: The Cellar. Enjoy The Cellar’s array of tantalizing tapas with unlimited selected vinos for only QR 300 per person, or QR 160 per person for food-only. For more information call 4402-3333.
ORYX ROTANA X'Press Lunch And Dinner
Daily: The Cellar. It’s quick-bite time and The Cellar is ready for it! Enjoy their new three-course set menu including a large variety of starters, main dishes and desserts for only QR 95 per person for lunch and QR 150 per person for dinner, guaranteed to be served in 60 minutes. For more information call 4402-3333.
Latin Night
Sundays: Choices.Enjoy a unique concept and indulge in a Latin American buffet from 7:00 p.m. till 11:30 p.m. for QR 215 per person for food only, or QR 305 including unlimited selected house beverages. Also try their premium package for QR 350 which includes unlimited sparkling vino, house spirits, selected digestives and aperitifs. For more information call 4402-3333.
RADISSON BLU Friday Brunch Hyde Park. This Friday brunch caters to the tastes of each guest with over 30 dishes from around the world. The hotel provides extensive children’s activities and games along with supervising staff that will take care of the kids while the adults are entertained by a live band. QR 160 per person (buffet only) and QR 210 per person inclusive of sparkle. From 12:00 noon to 3:00 p.m. For more information call 4428-1555.
THE ANVIL ROOMS The Blacksmith’s Lunch
Daily: 28th Floor, Tornado Tower. Choose a signature steak, a side, a sauce and a soft drink for QR 149 available seven days a week. Fridays and Saturdays include a Sommelier’s selected drink for QR 179. From 12:00 noon till 3:00 p.m. For more information call 4499-0685 or email reservations@theanvilrooms.qa.
The Blacksmith’s Supper
Sun-Thurs: 28th Floor, Tornado Tower. Choose a signature steak, a side dish, a sauce and a signature drink for QR 179 with a sommeliers selected drink. From 5:30 p.m. to 6:45 p.m. For more information call 4499-0685 or email reservations@theanvilrooms.qa.
THE FOUR SEASONS Piatto Unico
Sat-Thurs: Il Teatro. ‘Piatto Unico’ in Italian literally means a ‘one-dish meal’ that’s wellbalanced, healthy and bountiful. The chef is delighted to share this unique Italian lunch on a weekly changing basis to suit all tastes. Perfect for those who don’t have much time for lunch and offers great value for a true Italian experience. QR 99 per person. From 12:00 noon till 3:00 p.m. For more information call 4494-8631.
Wagyu Beef
Daily: Il Teatro. The Four Seasons brings you the opportunity to experience the exquisite flavour of Japanese Wagyu beef here in Doha. Chef Marco, the hotel’s Chef de Cuisine will satisfy your palate with exclusive dishes showcasing tasty Wagyu beef with an Italian touch. Prices start from QR 120. From 7:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4494-8601.
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THE GRAND HYATT New A La Carte Menu
Daily: Rocca. To find authentic Italian food without leaving your neighbourhood, look no further than Rocca restaurant with Italian Chef Marco Cherubini’s new menu. For more information call 4448-1272.
Curry Nights
Mondays: Isaan. The Thai restaurant offers an all-you-can-eat curry night. Every Monday from 7:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m., you can order a variety of unlimited curry to share, with your choice of fish, beef, chicken, mussels or vegetables. You can share up to five curries per round, for only QR 85 per person. For more information call 7021-8097. Not available during Ramadan.
Chatuchak Weekend Market Brunch Fridays: Isaan. Get an outstanding Thai Chatuchak Weekend Market experience, every Friday for brunch from 12:30 noon till 4:00 p.m. Walk around and explore the colourful array of live cooking stations and market-like stalls. A range of options are available. Enjoy a soft drink brunch for QR 280, a special beverage package for QR 395 and the Moët brunch for QR 680. For more information call 7021-8097. Not available during Ramadan.
Barbecue Nights
Thursdays: Majlis. Enjoy the outdoors on Majlis’ poolside terrace with barbecue and shisha nights, every Thursday. Don’t miss a night of delicious foods grilled to perfection, alongside popular exotic shisha flavours. For more information call 3039-5396. Not available during Ramadan.
THE RITZ-CARLTON Friday Brunch
Fridays: The Lagoon. Bring all the family for a relaxing weekend brunch. Live music complements the delicious buffet of Middle Eastern specialties and international live cooking stations. Children have their own junior buffet and entertainment. QR 305 per person including soft beverages, QR 395 per person including bubbly, or QR 425 for full brunch. Kids under the age of four can dine for free. QR 150 for kids ages 4 -12 years-old. From 12:30 noon till 4:00 p.m. Last order for beverages is at 3:30 p.m. For more information, call 4484-8000, or email rc.dohrz.leads@ritzcarlton.com.
Seafood Platter
Tuesdays: Admiral’s Club. Overlooking the marina, delight yourself in fresh seafood offerings while admiring the perfect surroundings and view. QR 260 per portion which serves up to two people. From 6:00 p.m. till 10:00 p.m. For more information call 4484-8000, or email rc.dohrz.leads@ritzcarlton.com.
BBQ Lovers
Mon, Thurs & Fri: Admiral’s Club. What better way to savour and enjoy the spectacular views of the marina while indulging in a platter of BBQ. QR 190 per portion, with an additional QR 50 for fresh lobster. From 6:00 p.m. till 10:00 p.m. For more information call 4484-8000, or email rc.dohrz.leads@ritzcarlton.com.
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FOOD & DINING THE ST. REGIS DOHA Burger & Pint Night
Mondays: Opal by Gordon Ramsay. Enjoy the tastiest and juiciest burger in Doha! Choose from lamb, Wagyu beef, or Opal’s vegetarian burger served with fluffy fat fries and homemade tomato sauce all for QR 100. From 6:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4446-0000, or email opalbygordonramsay@stregis.com.
Gourmet Chilli-Dog Nights
Listings Tex- Mex Night
Wednesdays: Flying Carpet. Enjoy Latino specialties with a wide selection of steaks, burgers and hot dogs, plus welcome drinks and soft drinks for QR 200 per person. Served from 7:00 p.m. till 10:30 p.m. For more information call 4446-5600, or email restaurant.reservations@thetorchdoha.com.
Signature Burgers & Snacks
Tuesdays: Opal by Gordon Ramsay. Tuesday night is officially Gourmet Chilli-Dog Night. Enjoy the tastiest chilli-dogs in town served with bubbles or brews and includes ice-cream for dessert, all for QR 125. From 6:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4446-0000 or email opalbygordonramsay@stregis.com.
Daily: Sky Lounge. The lounge presents an array of specialty ‘bistronomy’ including home-made burgers and sandwiches, presented in a relaxing ambiance at Sky Lounge. The restaurant offers breathtaking views of Doha's skyline from the 51st floor. For more information call 4446-5600, or email restaurant.reservations@thetorchdoha.com.
BBQ Night
Seafood Extravaganza
Thursdays: Vine. Ring in the weekend and experience a wide selection of BBQ classics while enjoying breath-taking views from the terrace. Follow dinner with a trip to The Rooftop for a nightcap, and music from their resident DJ. QR 320 with soft beverages and QR 420 including grapes, grain and sparkling beverages. From 6:30 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4446-0107.
Thursdays: Flying Carpet. Indulge in an array of fresh seafood for grilling, frying, or done in the wok, plus a wide selection of Italian seafood antipasti and more for only QR 250 per person including welcome drinks and soft drinks. For more information call 4446-5600, or email restaurant.reservations@thetorchdoha.com.
Jazz Brunch
Fridays: Market by Jean-Georges. Enjoy a delicious brunch with live entertainment by Doha Jazz. QR 410 per person including house beverages, or QR 295 including soft drinks. For more information call 4453-5135 or email bnfreservations.wdoha@whotels.com. Offer not valid during Ramadan.
Vietnamese Sundays
Sundays: Spice Market. Inspired by the vibrant street life of Southeast Asia, Spice Market introduces an all new Vietnamese Night. It’s all about the balance of flavours, the yin and yang, the sweet and salty, the fresh and fermented, spread across eight courses prepared every Sunday at Spice Market. QR 150 per person. For more information call 4453-5135 or email bnfreservations.wdoha@whotels.com. Offer not valid during Ramadan.
WYNDHAM GRAND REGENCY F&B Dining Adventure
Mondays: Panorama. Enjoy a Fondue Bourguignon Night prepared with your choice of canola oil or vegetable broth, lightly seasoned and served with a choice of beef tenderloin, chicken or shrimp, and a spiced fish or Surf & Turf combination. For more information call 4446-5600, or email restaurant. reservations@thetorchdoha.com.
Burger Night
Mediterranean All The Way
Sip & Savour
Sat-Thurs: Spice Market. Try Spice Market’s signature cocktails and drinks alongside a combination of mouth-watering snacks with a 50% discount on selected beverages. For more information call 4453-5135 or email bnfreservations.wdoha@whotels.com. Offer not valid during Ramadan.
Daily: Dine in style at the Wyndham Grand Regency hotel and enjoy a Wyndham Dining Adventure from 1:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. on selected packages. Every course is served in a different restaurant. Bronze Treatment for only QR 199: - Starter at Chopsticks Restaurant - Main course at Tangia Restaurant - Coffee / Tea / Dessert as per guests request wishes at Al Kut Café Silver Treatment for only QR 299: - Starter at Tangia Restaurant - Main course at Chopsticks Restaurant - Coffee / Tea / Dessert as per guests request wishes at Al Kut Café - Spa treatment discount voucher for 50% off - Tangia voucher for 50% off Gold Treatment for only QR 699: - Starter at Chopsticks Restaurant - Main course at Tangia Restaurant - Coffee / Tea / Dessert as per guests request wishes + selected cigar at Al Kut Café - Limousine pick-up - 1-hour spa treatment - Tangia voucher for 50% off - 50% off on room rate + breakfast included Diamond Treatment for only QR 1,100: - Starter at Tangia Restaurant - Main course at Chopsticks Restaurant - Coffee / Tea / Dessert as per guests request wishes + selected cigar at Al Kut Café - Limousine pick-up - 1-hour spa treatment - Chopsticks voucher for 50% off - Standard room + breakfast included For more information call 4434-3203/3333 or email wgrf&b@wyndham.com.
Panorama Special Set Menu
Business Lunch
Chinese Bliss
Barbecue Bazaar Brunch
Fri & Sat: Opal by Gordon Ramsay. Delight you taste-buds with everything you can eat from our a la carte brunch menu designed by famous Chef Gordon Ramsay. Sit on the terrace and while away a lazy weekend. QR 295 with soft beverages and QR 395 with selected beverages. For more information call 4446-0116 or e-mail opal.Doha@stregis.com.
Fridays: Flying Carpet Friday. Drop in for a sizzling experience and choose from a wide selection of steaks, Oriental BBQ, fish, and burgers for only QR 210 per person including a welcome drink, still water, selected soft drinks and chilled juices. From 12:30 noon till 3:30 p.m. Enjoy a special rate of only QR 98 for children under the age of 12. For more information call 4446-5600, or email restaurant.reservations@thetorchdoha.com.
THE TORCH DOHA Rotisserie Night
W DOHA Pitcher Perfect
Weekend A La Carte Brunch
Saturdays: Panorama. Enjoy a delightful Rotisserie Night at the newly-opened Panorama, featuring grilled-chicken carving trolley service by the table. Open from Monday to Saturday from 6:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4446-5600, or email restaurant.reservations@thetorchdoha.com.
Fondue Bourguignon Night
Daily: Three Sixty. This beautiful revolving restaurant located on the 47th floor at The Torch Doha, offers panoramic views of the city. Open daily for lunch from 12:00 noon till 3:00 p.m. and for dinner from 7:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4446-5600, or email restaurant.reservations@thetorchdoha.com.
Mon-Wed: Panorama. Enjoy a special menu at QR 225 including your choice of appetizer, main and dessert with coffee or tea. Located on the 50th floor the restaurant offers panoramic views of the city. For more information call 4446-5600, or email restaurant.reservations@thetorchdoha.com.
Sun-Thurs: Market by Jean-Georges. Enjoy signature Market by Jean-Georges cocktails served in pitchers with your favourite bites at this awardwinning restaurant – all for QR 160. From 5:00 p.m. till 7:00 p.m. For more information call 4453-5135, or email bnfreservations.wdoha@whotels.com. Offer not valid during Ramadan.
Sundays: Market by Jean-Georges. Start your week with your favourite burger, side dish and one amazing sundae from the selection – all for QR 125 per person. From 6:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4453-5135 or email bnfreservations.wdoha@whotels.com. Offer not valid during Ramadan.
Sat-Thurs: Market by Jean-Georges. Choose your favourite starter, main course and dessert in just half an hour at QR 95 for a three-course meal. From 12:00 noon till 4:00 p.m. For more information call 4453-5135, or email bnfreservations.wdoha@whotels.com. Offer not valid during Ramadan.
Thursdays: Chopsticks Restaurant. Chopsticks is serving a delightful Chinese-food dinner buffet for only QR 169. From 6:30 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information, call 4434-3203/3333, or email wgrf&b@wyndham.com.
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Sushi Fiesta
Saturdays: Chopsticks Restaurant. Chopsticks is serving a delightful miso soup followed by a Sushi Fiesta. Eat as much you can for only QR 169 per person. From 6:30 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. Immerse yourself in an electrical range of original and sensational sushi platters and try their sushi made of chicken, beef and duck exclusively at Chopsticks, the award-winning restaurant. For more information call 4434-3203/3333, or email wgrf&b@wyndham.com.
SPECIAL LISTINGS HDC RESTAURANTS AT THE PEARL-QATAR Al Tabkha A fast-casual restaurant concept offering healthy home-made Lebanese cuisine in a family friendly environment for dine-in, takeaway or delivery.They offer a Friday buffet for QR 95, falafel combo for QR 30, chicken shawarma for QR 20, daily specials for QR 50, take-away and delivery from QR 65 and dine-in breakfast set menus from QR 45, QR 55 and QR 70. Open daily from 8:00 a.m. till midnight. Located at Croisette 18, Porto Arabia, The Pearl-Qatar. For more information call 4495-3876, Ext: 5874/5875.
Burj Al Hamam Offers a wide range of Lebanese traditional dishes and fresh seafood specialties with breath-taking marina views of The Pearl-Qatar. Open daily from 12:00 noon till midnight, and Fridays and Saturdays from 9:00 a.m. till 12 midnight. Set menus start from QR 200/QR 300/ QR 400. Average meal price per person is QR 170. Located at Croissette 1, Porto Arabia, The Pearl-Qatar. For more information call 4495 3876, Ext: 1291.
Tse Yang An elegant, chic and high-end Chinese restaurant overlooking a breath-taking marina.Open daily from 12:00 noon till midnight. Located in Croisette 6, Porto Arabia, The Pearl-Qatar. For more information call 4495-3876, Ext: 2071.
Megu A high-end Japanese restaurant providing an exclusive experience second-to- none. Open from 12:00 noon till 3:00 p.m. for lunch, and from 7:00 p.m. till midnight for dinner. Located at Croisette 6, Porto Arabia, The Pearl-Qatar. For more information call 4495-3876, Ext: 2101.
Pampano A refined, modern Mexican cuisine concept in partnership with Chef Richard Sandoval and Maestro Placido Domingo. Open daily from 12:00 noon till midnight. Featuring live Latin music on Thursdays and Fridays from 7:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. Located at Croisette 1, Porto Arabia, The Pearl-Qatar. For more information call 4495-3876, Ext: 1221.
Alison Nelson’s Chocolate Bar A slick, chic and stylish cafÊ offering salads, desserts, decadent chocolates and ice-cream, alongside dishes that are a delicious choice for lunch, dinner and breakfast. Open daily from 6:00 a.m. till 2:00 a.m. Located at Croisette 1, Porto Arabia, The Pearl-Qatar. For more information call 4495-3876, Ext: 1311.
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FOOD & DINING
Directory
Al Sufra Marsa Malaz Kempinski Porcini The Ritz-Carlton
SPANISH & TEX-MEX Aceite 4018-8894 Caminito 4447-0000 Chili’s 4466-0663 El Faro 4035-5555 Ipanema 4419-6100 Latino Steakhouse 4485-3000 Oyster Bay 4446-0105 Paloma 4484-4444 Pampano 4495-3876, Ext: 1221 Picasso’s 4428-1428 Rodizio Brazilian Churrascaria 4408-7777 Salsa 4429-8888
ARABIC & LEBANESE Agora 4445-5555 Al Balad 4491-8692 Al Bandar 4431-1818 Al Batross 4432-8888 Al Canteen 4433-6666 Al Mourjan 4483-4423 Al Sayyad 4484-7420 Al Shaheen Restaurant 4485-3000 Al Sufra 4035-5555 Al Sultan Brahim 4446-0105 Al Tabkha 4495-3876, Ext: 5874/5875 Al Tawash 4498-2002 Argan 4433-6666 Burj Al Hamam 4495-3876, Ext: 1291 Istanbul Sultan Dining Restaurant 4468-5089 Khan Rafouk Tarab Café 4408-0840 Kunafa Albisana. 4408-1200 Layali 4431-0005 Lebanese Shawarma 4466-2616 Majlis 4448-1234 Marmara Istanbul 4436-2947 Shawarma Albisana 4408-1400 Sukar Pasha Ottoman Lounge 4408-2000 Tajine 4435-5554 Tangia 4434-3333 Turkey Central 4443-2927
INTERNATIONAL
Latino Steakhouse Sheraton Doha
CHINESE Chopsticks D’Chopstix Royal Bafilyon Ruby Wu’s Tse Yang Wok of Fame
4434-3333 4408-4888 4411-4458 4428-1428 4495-3876, Ext: 2071 4413-4772
CONTEMPORARY EUROPEAN Aroma Astor Grill Belgian Café Gordon Ramsay La Mer Market by Jean-Georges Nando’s Delivery Hotline Opal by Gordon Ramsay Panorama
4405-3325 4446-0105 4484-4444 4446-0105 4484-8000 4453-5135 4436-0606 4446-0105 4446-5600
FRENCH La Sahtaine La Varenne Le Relais de L’Entrecote Maxim Sormani The French Olive
4423-3333 4499-0680 4495-3876 Ext. 1411 4428-1428 4495-3876 Ext. 3222 4444-4777
INDIAN Biryani Hut Bombay Balti Chingari Royal Indian Royal Tandoor Al Souq St., Jasra Souq Waqif Saffron Lounge Signature by Sanjeev Kapoor Sukh Sagar Taj Rasoi
4464-1401 4428-1428 4428-1428 4466-6876 4444-6151 4432-3244 3325-8919 4019-8877 4431-9172 4429-8888
Al Hubara Al Liwan Restaurant Al Matbakh Rooftop Grill ForKnife Baraha Blue Brasserie Restaurant Choices Corniche Crossroads Kitchen Flying Carpet Grand Gourmet La Brasserie La Cigalon Restaurant Lifestyle Restaurant Mawasem Mehfil Restaurant Nando’s Delivery Hotline The Dining Room (Al Najada Boutique Hotel) The Dining Room (Fraser Suites Hotel) The Grill The Lagoon The Village Souq Waqif Three Sixty Torch Tea Garden Vine
4485-3000 4424-2888 4433-6777 4496-6600 4447-0000 4472-2666 4402-3333 4429-8888 4419-6100 4446-5600 4434-3333 4446-2222 4428-8888 4463-2154 4423-3333 4409-4444 4436-0606 4433-6666 4424-3444 4448-1234 4484-8000 3331-1558 4446-5600 4446-5600 4446-0105
ITALIAN Bice Ristorante Carluccio’s Cucina Di Capri Fabio’s Pizza II Teatro La Dolce Vita Italian Restaurant La Spiga by Paper Moon La Veranda le Vesuvio Paper Moon Porcini Rocca The Italian Job
4495-3876 4495-3876 4419-6100 4428-8698 4416-5641 4494-8888 4436-7991 4453-5135 4485-3000 4408-1500 4016-6000 4484-8000 4448-1272 4428-1428
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Bentley’s Grill Radisson Blu
BAR FOOD
JAPANESE Neo Oishi Sushi Sakura Strata Restaurant & Lounge Sushi Minto Megu Yen Sushi Bar
CAFÉS
The French Olive Barwa Building, C-Ring Road
Agora Grand Heritage Doha
4432-2508 4442-8989 4428-1428 4015-8888 4467-5577 4495-3876, Ext: 2101 4428-8888
MEDITERRANEAN
AMERICAN & BURGERS
Aramede 4408-7777 Bistro Bistro 4428-1428 La Villa 4446-2222 Le Central Restaurant 4428-8888 Medi @ The Village 4444-4700 Mykonos 4484-4444 Sawa 4035-5555 The Cellar 4402-3333
PERSIAN Grill @ The Village Parisa Prince Of Persia
American Grill Burgeri Chili’s Fuddruckers Hardee’s Johnny Rockets Ric’s Kountry Kitchen TGI Friday’s
4411-0188 4449-3958. 4466-0663 4483-3983 4467-8750 4455-2792 4443-7846 4488-7008
SEAFOOD 4444-4700 4425-6666 4015-0190.
SOUTHEAST ASIAN Asia Live! Chowking Delivery Hotline Mamoura Al Khor Salwa Road Al Sadd St. Holiday Villa Isaan Mango Tree Nusantao: Sea Kitchens Spice Market Sri Kebaya The Noodle House City Center Mall The Pearl Wok Mee Noodle House
Belgian Café 4484-4444 De Ozone 4470-8822 Madison Piano Bar 4428-8888 Pool Bar 4484-4444 Shehrazad 4428-1428 The Irish Harp 4485-4444 The Lounge 4405-3325 Wahm 4453-5353
4429-8888 4431-1212 4486-6077 4411-8816/17 4437-1212 4431-4411 4411-5225/335 4448-1250 4495-3876 4494-8888 4453-5353 4434-0838 4411-5063 4495-3876 4496-6600
Almaskar Al Dana Al Dente Seafood Restaurant Al Sayyad Al Sultan Brahim Fish Market L’wzaar Seafood Market Pampano Pier 12
4485-3000 4425-6666 4472-2666 4484-7420 4446-0105 4484-4444 4408-0710 4495-3876 4428-1428
STEAKHOUSES Bentley’s Grill JW’s Steakhouse Le Grill New York Steakhouse Prime The Anvil Rooms The Butcher Shop and Grill The Old Manor Steakhouse
4428-1428 4429-8888 4484-7412 4419-6100 4015-8888 4499-0685 4413-5508 4446-2222
Alison Nelson’s Chocolate Ba 4495-3876, Ext. 1311 Al Jalsa 4425-6666 Al Kut Lounge 4434-3203 Allegria 4485-3000 Al Mandarine 4463-3748 Anima Gallery & Lounge 4002 7437 Aspire Grand Café 4449-3963 Atrium Lounge 4485-4444 Bab Al Baher 4423-3333 Biscotti 4448-1282 Café Murano 4035-5555 Café Vergnano 4495-3876 Ext. 2611 Chac’Late 4408-2000 Coffee Time 4466-7551 Colombiano 4434-2753 Dean and Deluca 4451-9780 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 4486-2264 Villaggio Mall 4417-8132 MBCo The Gate Mall 4407-7130 Al Emaadi Financial Square 4411-7224 Moka and Co 4458-3232 Orangery Café Troittor 4428-8888 Quick Bites 4419-6134 Red Velvet Cupcakery 4408-0700. Sarab Lounge 4446-0105 Savor Café Lounge 4408-7777 Shisha Garden 4428-8888 Sky Lounge 4402-3333 Sugar and Spice 4411-4456 Sweet Temptations 4485-3000 The Courtyard 4433-6444 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
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SPORTS
Top Picks
INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA Pilates Sculpt
Tuesdays: Fitness Studio. Features slow and controlled movements in a series of non-impact exercises using toning balls, elastic bands and your own body-weight. The class helps develop abdominal strength, lengthens muscles, while improving flexibility and postural alignment. From 9:15 a.m. till 10:15 a.m., members QR 30/ non-members QR 50. For more information call 4484-4444.
QATAR TENNIS FEDERATION Learn How To Play Tennis
Upon request: Khalifa International Tennis & Squash Complex. Learn how to play tennis with renowned coaches from all over the world, imparting programs that will provide students with the most advanced and professional tennis skills. For more information visit www.qatartennis.org.
SHERATON DOHA Squash
Ongoing: Visit Sheraton Fitness for squash court rentals at QR 100 per hour. For bookings and reservations call 4485-4601/4600/4609, or email HRC.sheratondoha@sheraton.com.
ASPIRE ACTIVE Adult Aquatics Programs
EVOLUTION SPORTS #IAmEvo Summer Camps
July-August: From football to swimming, the Evolution Sports Summer Camps are held from 9:00 a.m. till 1:00 p.m. and are open to all children and teens ages 5-16 years-old. With a clear focus on fun and enjoyment, educational themes such as leadership and fair-play are all part of the curriculum. For more information call 4407-6772, or visit www.evosportqatar.com.
Ongoing: Hamad Aquatic Centre. Swimming is a great form of activity and as nearly all muscles are involved in the movements, its benefits are tremendous. As well as providing an excellent cardiovascular workout, the aquatic exercise offered in these classes has the potential to tone the entire body. For more information or to register call 4413-6219 or visit www.aspire.qa/ASPIREACTIVE/Membership.
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SPORTS
The Journey
Begins (Again)… By John Hunt
The world of professional football has been, to say the least, an embattled arena of late. With so much at stake, now is the time for Qatar’s national team to show the world they have what it takes to stand with the giants of the sport. With new head coach José Daniel Carreño now at the helm, QH probes the significance of his appointment.
U
ntil last month, the last time I’d seen the Qatar national football side play was at Khalifa International Stadium in the 2011 Asian Cup quarter-final, where The Maroon – under the tutelage of the late Bruno Metsu – exited the competition following defeat to eventual champions Japan.
When Qatar announced they’d be playing a friendly match versus Scotland at Edinburgh’s Easter Road Stadium on June 5, this presented me with the perfect opportunity to run the rule over the current side. I say ‘perfect opportunity’ in that Easter Road is about four miles from my apartment. This friendly – only the second game of new manager José Daniel Carreño’s tenure – fell into the ‘meaningless’ category, though this wasn’t the fault of the visitors; Scotland had a EURO2016 qualifier the following week, and it was clear that their players didn’t want to risk injury by approaching the match in a full-blooded fashion. Consequently, the 90 minutes that were witnessed by a decent crowd of 14,000+ won’t live long in the memory. A match report is redundant now – Scotland won 1-0 – so I think we’ll settle for ‘forgettable’ and move on. From a professional standpoint it was unfortunate that the penultimate time I had seen Qatar play was in a competitive fixture, so the friendly didn’t offer me many clues as to how the team has progressed.
New Qatar manager José Daniel Carreño
However, the disappointing results of the games played since the Japan defeat, and the team’s performance at the 2015 Asian Cup, suggest that little tangible progress has been made – certainly on the park. Indeed, the group-stage exit (after three defeats from three games) from the 2015 Asian Cup cost previous manager Djamel Belmadi his job.
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Matt Ritchie (right) scored the only goal in Scotland's 1-0 friendly win over Qatar in June
The Uruguayan Carreño (52) becomes the sixth manager since Metsu’s departure in 2011, and the former is tasked with getting Qatar to the 2018 World Cup in Russia, which would represent The Maroon’s first appearance at the finals.
Meet The New Boss It has to be said that Carreño’s appointment caught many by surprise. A significant number of people supposedly ‘in the know’ (myself included!) had suggested that a really big name from the European leagues might be in the frame, but the Uruguayan got the nod. Carreño – a virtual unknown in global managerial terms – does have significant (15 years) experience of managing in South America, KSA and also Al Arabi in Qatar, with several honours picked up along the way. He is no novice, and this is just as well, as it can be said with certainty that he’s going to have to draw on all his capabilities if he is to get Qatar to Russia in three years’ time.
and Richard Oliver of Qatar Airways an Scotland manager Gordon Strach (right) with the Qatar Airways Cup.
Following the Scotland friendly, Carreño commented: “Right now we are just worried about Russia. Qatar has no history of playing in World Cups and we’re only concerned with trying to qualify the national team to go to the 2018 World Cup. It’s all about the World Cup qualifier in Maldives and making the tournament after that.”
Is it hope or expectation that the above stat could become a sequence – one that could take Qatar to Russia? I’d argue it’s a bit of both. There are three things that can be said with certainty, though, that would increase the ratio of expectation over that of hope.
The last sentence was particularly prescient in that six days after the Scotland friendly; Qatar played their opening 2018 qualifier away to the Maldives, and won by a solitary goal. The winner was scored in the 10th minute of stoppage time but, hey, they all count. So Carreño’s competitive record as Qatar boss reads: played one, won one.
Firstly, Qatar cannot continue to appoint a new manager every eight months as has been the case since 2011. Carreño needs time to show what he can do. Second – and this was undoubtedly a factor in his appointment – the manager needs to utilize all of his knowledge of the South American football powerhouse, and ‘translate’ it into an Arab context.
Thirdly, and as I previously opined when talking about the meteoric rise of Iceland from footballing minnows to genuine contenders in last month’s issue, Carreño must try and ‘internationalize’ his squad. Qatar do have players who could and should be enhancing their football education in the European leagues – or even the stronger Asian ones (Japan, Korea) – and this needs to be looked at ASAP. So good luck to Carreño, and good luck to Qatar in their quest to reach Russia in 2018, but at the same time, decisions and actions can be taken/made to reduce pure luck to a cameo role… n
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SPORTS
Summer: The Wellness Way By Flavio Rodriguez
Heat and lethargy don’t have to go hand-in-hand this summer. We turned to the wellness experts at EVOLVE – Mind/Body/Soul for keys on how to make the summer months as healthy and active as any other.
S
o July/August are upon us and you’re looking for new and inspiring ways to keep yourself busy, entertained and fulfilled. Here are some simple tips on how you can feel fresh, happy and on cloud nine during the coming months. Achieve summer wellness by:
Making It A Hobby – Not A Chore You’ve probably had every Tom, Dick and Harry letting you know that the best medicine for a healthy mind is exercise – particularly aerobic exercise like swimming, running or cycling. Don’t turn this into something you have to do and dread. Everyone likes something, so get out there and find out what it is you like. There are a number of fitness classes in Doha for people of all fitness levels, and there’s one out there for you. Classes are a great way of socializing and getting you into a routine. Make it a ritual and eventually you’ll look forward to it. Soon you’ll come to realize that Tom, Dick and Harry were right when they told you that: 1. Exercise increases your heart rate which pumps more blood to the brain and helps give a nourishing environment for brain-cell repair, giving you that sense of alertness, concentration and readiness to take the world on. 2. Early morning workouts set you up for the day ahead by preparing you for mental stresses you will face.
3. If it’s good for your body, chances are it will be good for your mind and soul too.
Filling Up The Tank All that blood, sweat and tears have left you feeling exhausted, drained and dry. Your car doesn’t run on fumes, the same as your body can’t function without H20 – fill up the tank or it won’t function. As a guy you should be drinking 2 litres of fluid per day and 1.6 litres for the ladies. If you find it challenging then opt for foods with high water content, like fruits and vegetables which contain around 80 to 98 per cent water. Strawberries, grapefruits and, of course, watermelon are very high in water content but there are many more out there. A reminder that during these hot months you’ll lose water faster than usual so keep that bottle by your side at all times. Make it a routine of drinking a glass when you wake up, before you sleep and five minutes before every meal for a sense of fullness to avoid over-eating. Being hydrated is being operative.
Not Getting Lazy It’s all well and good relaxing when you’re off work, but don’t let the phrase, ‘I’m on holiday so I can be naughty’ become common practice. Who said that when you treat yourself it has to be with a sugary snack or fast-food binge? You can get the same reward from a nutritious, healthy meal and not just at the time of eating. Trust me, I feel a lot more energized after eating good, clean food compared to after scoffing fast-food. Remember, moderation is key.
Reconnecting With Friends & Family Having a robust social network is the key to a long, happy life and what better time to start mingling with new people than now, during your time off. Get out there and meet new, fun and interesting people
y Taking the time to prepare a health meal requires less effort than you ts! benefi think – with double the
whether it’s in a fitness class, book club, social media network or just get chatting to someone in the mall. In this city we have the advantage of being surrounded by people of all different nationalities, cultures and religions. This should be used as a tool to educate yourself, learn from others and make social bonds. Got enough friends you say? Get reconnected and do something new with them. Spend quality time with your family. Start by switching off the TV and eating together at the table. Sharing stories, memories and plans will have you laughing, smiling, reminiscing, looking forward to and have you feeling grateful with what you have. Follow this simple advice for a summer full of wellness. n Get yourself on the track to optimal health by learning more about EVOLVE – Mind/Body/ Soul’s services. For more information visit www.evolvemindbodysoul.com.
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SPECIAL PROMOTION
Building motor skills with Evo Sports' Little Ballers group – part of their new Evo Minis program
to the Little Splashers introduces kids nment. water in a safe, nurturing enviro
like all of the ‘Evo Minis', they never stop learning. Evolution Sport Qatar is continually improving and updating their sessions, based on feedback and input from parents, as well as a network of sports coaches both locally and overseas. One of the most recent developments has been the introduction of the Mini Reward Scheme which encourages youngsters to take responsibility for their own learning. Weekly targets are discussed with each team before players are asked to select one they’d like to achieve. Targets are based on the following topics: listening skills, ball control, passing, dribbling, scoring, social skills and game understanding. Stickers are used to track completion of each learning objective, which are in turn used to inform detailed term reports for each player.
Holiday Camps
Evo Goes Mini Evolution Sports Qatar is introducing a brand-new program for the 2015-2016 season and we’ve got the inside track.
L
ittle sports fans now have a new roster of options with Evolution Sports’ latest Evo Mini program. Consisting of four programs targeting young athletes ages 2-6 years of age, Little Ballers (soccer), Little Ruggers (rugby), Little Bouncers (basketball) and Little Splashers (swimming) are each tailored to provide the youngest players with the core skills needed to succeed in sport.
There are two core beliefs that they take into every session; first, Evo believes in something that they call ‘Play, Not Push’. It means coaching in a fun, pressure-free environment, giving players a positive introduction to sport as a whole so they’re more likely to stay healthy and active throughout their lives.
Second, they believe that sport can be educational. Coached in the right way it can stimulate imagination and aid early development skills such as learning colours and numbers, following instructions, and playing as part of a team. It’s an approach that has helped Evolution Sports expand greatly since launching in Qatar in 2007, and
Looking for a fun camp that will keep your kids engaged? Every half-term Evolution Sports puts on a unique camp specifically designed for the Evo Mini members. Combining soccer, basketball, rugby, and swimming, these camps will keep your child active while teaching them a variety of new skills.
Birthday Parties Interested in having the Evo Minis coaches at your child's birthday party? Please contact the office on info@evosportaqatar.com for more information.
School Programs Evolution Sports are now offering the Minis programs to daycare and pre-schools. Send them the contact info for your pre-school or daycare and they will contact them about bringing their professionallydesigned classes to your child's school. n
If you’d like to know more about the Evo Minis program visit www.evosportsqatar.com.
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SPORTS
you more Online PT is a program that allows – from the control of your fitness schedule or gym! comfort of your own living room
Train Wherever, Whenever By Jonny Parr
If squeezing in time for a fitness class or a meet-up with a trainer is too much for your already manic schedule, a diet and exercise plan with online support could be just what you need. Last month Absolute Health & Fitness launched their new Online Personal Training program that lets you lead, to succeed – now get going!
‘Online PT’ – also known as ‘Online Coaching’ – offers a great platform for individuals looking to improve and take control of their health and fitness well-being. Personal, flexible, educational and convenient are just four immediate benefits associated with Online PT. Couple this with the fact that it’s significantly cheaper than hiring a one-toone personal trainer, then you and countless others can profit and prosper. Let’s delve into more detail about this exciting means of training.
Assessments Absolute Health and Fitness will assess all clients either in person or over the internet via video communication. It’s important to gather this data before a personalized program can be written for you
and only you. The exact assessments are grouped in three ways – Lifestyle Analysis, Health Screen and Movement Screen. Lifestyle Analysis allows us to identify matters such as stress triggers, time you can commit to training, your training experience, your nutritional habits, plus much more. Understanding a client’s mindset will go a long way in your online plan being successful and having both trainer and client on the same wave-length with good understanding will build key matters such as trust and openness. With regards to the health screen, key tests take place such as gauging your blood
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Parr Absolute Health & Fitness' Jonny (right) works alongside a client s Fitnes & h Photo credit: Absolute Healt
Instruction of the actual exercises we prescribe are all supported via images, video and written instruction. Given that people learn by different means such as visual, logical or verbal, we keep you covered on all fronts so you can have peace of mind that your experience will be both educational and, most importantly, safe.
Nutrition Individual nutrition plans are written to support your lifestyle and fitness goals. Dietary requirements and preferences vary from person to person and in-depth discussion both written and verbally are carried out so nothing goes astray.
Expert fitness, nutrition and lifestyle information and guidance – all conveniently online – can help lead you on the correct path to reach the goals you’ve always wanted or dreamed of. Get in touch today for a free face-to-face, no obligation consultation to discuss and learn more. n Jonny Parr is the founder and CEO of Absolute Health & Fitness. For more information on personal training options call 3385-2696 or visit www.absolutehealthandfitness.org.
If necessary, making changes in the way someone eats takes time and patience. To eliminate all ‘bad foods’ immediately is largely unrealistic for most people. It’s usually far better to ‘beat the bad’ gradually. By learning and obtaining a series of new and healthy eating habits, your nutrition will improve greatly. We support you 100% on this path.
Communication
pressure, measuring your body-fat percentage and body measurements. What’s more, all clients will undergo a movement screen that analyzes movement to help identify any possible dysfunctions and correlate these with subsequent solutions. Data collection is vital to create a starting point – particularly where the design of your initial programs are concerned. What’s more, it’s incredibly effective for keeping you motivated, accountable and able to measure whether you’re getting the results you’re looking for.
Communication is absolutely vital between trainer and client if he/she is to be successful. We are readily available by your preferred media means whether email, phone call, WhatsApp, SnapChat etc. The options are huge and completely tailored to suit you. What’s more, all content is provided to you via your own personal log-in. This can be viewed anywhere and everywhere whether via your laptop, tablets or smartphones.
Fitness
We never underestimate the importance of support and motivation. For many, the road to a healthy life is tough and often lonely. Having someone take every small and large step with you is an absolute given where we’re concerned and we will be with you every step of the way.
No one show fits all, and rest assured the fitness component of your program is entirely based on the results of your assessment, experience, needs, goals and, of course, our tuition.
Online Personal Training offers a serious alternative to one-on-one personal training and various fitness classes and clubs.
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SPORTS
Listings All listings are categorized per hotel. Inclusion is limited to availability of space, with priority given to advertisers.
QH RECOMMENDS
MARSA MALAZ KEMPINSKI Fitness Classes
Daily: The Health Club. Numerous fitness classes are available, including body-pump, boot camp, abs workout, Pilates, body-weight, Zumba, yoga, push-up challenge and more. Classes start from QR 75 per person. For more information call 4035-5555, email spa.marsamalaz@kempinski.com, or visit www.kempinski.com/marsamalaz.
The Gym
INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA Fitball
Sundays: Fitball is an effective body-conditioning class for all fitness levels and has been a huge success in changing people’s lives, making them feel stronger, prepared for more physical-impact exercises, and overcoming physical and emotional barriers. The Fitball sessions are welcoming with a relaxed, supportive atmosphere. All classes are small and friendly. Members QR 30/Non-members QR 50. From 9:30 a.m. till 10:30 a.m. For more information call 4484-4852
Some classes may not be available during Ramadan. Please check with each outlet before making a booking.
EVERY WEEK DOHA MARRIOTT New Personal Trainer
Upon request: The Marriott’s comprehensive gym offers more than just regular treadmills and resistance equipment. Here they integrate equipment and personal training and include variety and creativity to help you explore and enjoy what suits and works for you. Experienced, new-generation certified personal trainer, belonging to ACE (American Council on Exercise), Coach Andrew, will keep you engaged and motivated with his invigorating and results-driven methodology. Enjoy one 30-minute consultation with Coach Andrew for free. Valid until Ramadan. For more information call 4429-8520.
INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA TRX Fitness
Sun & Tues: Another name for this challenging class is suspension training. Participants will be working against gravity using their own body-weight and TRX equipment to complete a series of exercises. It helps to develop strength, balance, flexibility and core stability simultaneously. Members, QR 30/ non-members, QR 50. Sundays from 10:30 a.m. till 11:30 a.m., and Tuesdays from 6:00 p.m. till 6:45 p.m. For more information call 4484-4852.
Core Strength
Thurs & Fri: The best core exercises may surprise you. It's not enough to just do abs-crunches and sit-ups. To build a strong core you need to exercise a variety of muscles from your hips to your shoulders. A strong core improves athletic performance and postural imbalances. Thursdays from 5:00 p.m. till 5:45 p.m., and Fridays from 7:00 a.m. till 7:45 a.m. Members QR 30/Non-members QR 50. From 9:30 a.m. till 10:30 a.m. For more information call 4484-4852.
LA CIGALE Tone & Shape
Saturdays: Ozone Gym & Spa. This 60-minute total body workout combines low to mediumintensity cardio and weight-training exercises. Starts at 11:00 a.m. Complimentary for members,non-members pay QR 60 per class. For more information call 4428-8101.
BoxFit
Ongoing: Ozone Gym & Spa. A stress-releasing workout, this 60-minute class uses boxing techniques that involve the muscles of the core, upper body, shoulders and hips to improve strength, endurance and agility. Complimentary for members, non-members pay QR 60 per class. For more information call 4428-8101.
Explosive Cardio
Sun & Tues: Ozone Gym & Spa. This 60-minute endurance cardiovascular training session will burn fat, tone muscles and improve fitness capabilities. Sundays and Tuesdays at 7:00 p.m. Complimentary for members, non-members pay QR 60 per class. For more information call 4428-8101.
Daily: The Health Club. A state-of-the-art space with female-only and mixed fitness areas, the latest Technogym equipment, two fitness group studios, a personal training studio and male and female wet relaxation areas. For more information call 4035-5555, email spa.marsamalaz@kempinski.com, or visit www.kempinski.com/marsamalaz.
Tennis
Daily: Make use of their outdoor tennis court on the island grounds, with private or group lessons with coaches. For more information call 4035-5555, email spa.marsamalaz@kempinski.com, or visit www.kempinski.com/marsamalaz.
SHERATON DOHA Spinning Join in Sheraton Fitness for spinning classes at QR 50 per class. For bookings and reservations call 4485-4601/4600/4609, or email HRC.sheratondoha@sheraton.com.
Martial Arts Join in Sheraton Fitness for Aikido and kickboxing classes at QR 50 per class. For bookings and reservations call 4485-4601/4600/4609, or email HRC.sheratondoha@sheraton.com.
THE FOUR SEASONS Power Yoga This is 75 minutes of dynamic yoga practice including strengthening vinyasa positions. Energizing and detoxifying, the practice improves balance, strength and flexibility. QR 80 per person. For more information call 4494-8888.
Cycling Enjoy a 60-minute Activio cycling class that targets the 65-85% heart rate zone. QR 60 per person. For more information call 4494-8888.
Boot Camp
Enjoy a 60-minute outdoor workout that combines body-weight exercises, interval training and strength exercises, resembling a military workout. QR 80 per person. For more information call 4494-8888.
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QH SENSATIONS
Top Picks
SHARQ VILLAGE & SPA Cooling Summer
July/August: Six Senses Spa. Uplift your spirit and prepare for summer with this cooling full-body experience, designed to reveal fresh and glowing skin. This treatment includes a 30-minute stimulating exfoliation with natural orange and oatmeal, followed by a nourishing 20-minute body-wrap with aloe vera, honey and cucumber. Complete the ritual with a 50-minute Six Senses signature massage all for QR 850. For more information call 4425-6999/6995.
ORYX ROTANA Massage & Spa Treatments
Daily: Bodylines. Relax your body at the hands of their experienced therapists. Bodylines offer Swedish, Bodylines signature massage, reflexology, jet-lag massage, back and shoulder massage, body scrubs and seaweed body-wraps. For more information call 4402-3333.
THE GRAND HYATT Eid Journey
July 15-31: Jaula Spa & Club. Indulge yourself with a 90-minute journey for face, body and spirit. A 60-minute Vitamin C facial helps to avoid sun damage and sloughs away dead skin cells to reveal a healthy, new, glowing face, followed by a 30-minute sea-salt polish for only QR 660. For more information call 4448-1056.
MARSA MALAZ KEMPINSKI Spa by Clarins Now Open!
Ongoing: Visit this 3,000-sqm European spa featuring legendary products and treatments by Clarins. With 23 treatment rooms, male and female wellness and wet relaxation areas, laconiums, saunas and steam-rooms and two indoor pools (male and female), Spa by Clarins is the ultimate pampering experience. For more information call 4035-5555, email spa.marsamalaz@kempinski.com, or visit www.kempinski.com/marsamalaz.
WYNDHAM GRAND REGENCY Vigour Treatment
July 1-August 31: Angsana Spa. Enjoy a cuisine for the soul with a 60-minute body massage and 30-minutes of refreshments and relaxation for QR 425. For more information call 4434-3152/3153, or email spa-wyndhamgrandregencydoha@angsana.com.
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QH SENSATIONS
Sensory Serenity By Ashlee Starratt and Jorge Granda Photography by Jessie Palanca
We soak up waves of relaxation in the peaceful retreat of the Six Senses Spa at the Sharq Village, where ancient holistic tradition meets new-age practice in the search for tranquility. Ayurvedic Indulgence Discovering the Six Senses Spa all over again is like stumbling into another world – one of wellness, peace and softness. It’s late on a lazy Thursday afternoon when I arrive and the sun has taken on that certain cast of light, with the remains of the day refracting in brilliant shards off the cool blue waters of the lobby’s reflective pool. It’s been nearly a year since I’ve been here and though there have been some small changes –
the main entrance is now the men’s reception – the women’s has its own, new entry at the back – the sheer beauty of its souq-like layout gives the whole space a monastic ambiance. These are hallowed halls where relaxation, rejuvenation and balance are the daily rituals.
Today I’ll be trying the Abhyang Fusion full-body oil massage; part of the spa’s ayurveda aromatherapy treatment line. After a quick change in the rustic calm of the dressing area, my therapist Juli leads me past the cavernous plunge and steam pools, sun-dappled relaxation terrace and out through the labyrinth of cobbled alleys that wend their way through the spa grounds. My treatment room is in a secluded out-building, lined with flagstone floors and adorned with elements of wood. Juli is from Bali, Indonesia and she explains to me that she’ll be using the techniques of Balinese massage throughout the experience. She begins by wafting scented aromatherapy oils under my nose; using products from Australian ayurvedic brand
Subtle Energies, I select their Bliss option – a blend of mogra, kewda and bhrami flowers that refreshes and relaxes the senses. She begins with the foot ritual bath, scrubbing away the impurities of the day in blissfully hot water scented with mogra.
Then, I shift over to the bed where I lay face-up. Before the treatment begins Juli lightly taps out some resonating notes on a hand-held gong that seem to turn my entire spine into a tuning fork. It’s an oddly relaxing effect, this aural ceremony, and I release any pent-up tension in one long, deep breath. Next she begins by dry-massaging my legs and feet – which are swollen and retaining far too much water on this 45-degree Celsius day. She then has me flip over face-down and begins with the aromatherapy oil massage. The next hour is spent flitting in and out of consciousness as I fall asleep not once, but three times during the treatment. This is the third time this has happened to me at a spa and two of those times have been at Six Senses. Juli’s scalp and facial massage (always my favourite part) has reduced me to a quivering bowl of Jell-O.
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Each treatment room boasts its own unique Arabic atmosphere
The reception area's rustic water element
Three sonar-like notes on the gong signal the end of the treatment and Juli guides me back to the relaxation terrace where I indulge in a cup of spicy ginger tea and a handful of dates and nuts. I feel completely revived and limber, with my skin softened by the decadent aromatherapy oil and my mind, for once, far away from the usual frenzied pace it operates. Sheer bliss!
A Cleansing Tradition I recently visited the Six Senses Spa for a refreshing and well-deserved Traditional Hammam treatment. If you haven’t been to the Sharq Village before, the hotel consists of villas – each with around eight rooms on two floors, plus the main building that hosts the food and beverages outlets, conference halls, and shops. The gardens and the pool between the Arabianstyle villas gives the overall ambiance a very special touch, almost as though you’re entering a centuries-old Arabian castle – but in my opinion the Six Senses Spa is probably the best place in the
hotel. From the first time I visited, I fell in love with the settings and décor. With four unique, themed areas, the spa evokes a luxurious souq in the middle of an oasis; its winding alleyways decorated with water features and local artworks make it the most authentic and serene in Qatar. I have to admit that when the old airport was still operational, visiting this spa wasn’t the most relaxing experience. It was kind of terrible when the aircrafts were flying over the hotel, disturbing the peace and quiet one should have during a spa treatment. However, the opening of the new airport has changed everything and the spa staff is courteous, humble and hospitable. As I have said before, I’m very fond of hammam treatments – I find it the ultimate pampering experience. Not only that, but they’re also very good for your skin…especially in a country as hot and dry as Qatar. It removes the dead and dry skin and moisturizes your entire body. Now that the summer is upon us, it’s a treatment I would recommend trying to prepare your skin for the harsh and arid July and August months. For those who don’t know what a hammam is, this treatment is a two-hour cleansing ritual done by a
professional and usually performed in a steam-room. At Six Senses however, it’s a bit different – they don’t perform it in a steam-room but the basis remains the same; another person pretty much washes you from head-to-toe. The Traditional Hammam treatment is a signature experience that combines traditional techniques with modern-day treatments and local ingredients and includes a refreshing body-cleanse, hair and scalp wash, kese scrub, hammam steam and full-body mask. I had no complaints about my experience. My therapist was professional and respectful and the temperature of the room was perfect, as was the water. The treatment lasted less than two hours and I did come out with glowing, clean skin – job done! n SIX SENSES SPA Location: Sharq Village & Spa Timings: • 6:00 a.m. till 11:00 p.m., daily • 9:00 a.m. till 11:00 p.m. for treatments • 8:00 a.m. till 1:00 a.m. during Ramadan Average Price: • QR 580, 60-minute Abhyang Fusion Full-Body Oil Massage • QR 730, 50-minute Traditional Hammam Contact Info: Call 4425-6999, email reservations-sharq-spa@sixsenses.com, or visit www.sixsenses.com
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QH SENSATIONS
Where East A traditional Chinese junk sails the blue waters of Victoria Harbour
the brand, it smells W, sounds W, acts W. We were greeted by happy and helpful staff and escorted through a labyrinth of Alice In Wonderland-style corridors – really, that’s the design! In fact, look up and you’ll see a ceiling decorated with hats from the Mad Hatter’s tea party.
The red gate of Hong Kong's Temple Street Night Market
Words and selected images by Lynsey Riach
Home to the world’s largest permanent light and sound festival, the longest outdoor covered escalator system, the biggest bronze Buddha and, recently, the most expensive handbag sale…of… all…time. These amazing feats sum up the sheer randomness of this non-stop neon city – Hong Kong is at its’ record-breaking best…
W
here else can you enjoy an endless view of skyscrapers onboard a traditional Hong Kong sailboat that sets you back in time? Or shop ‘til you drop at designer stores and then stumble down a cobbled street of market-sellers haggling over the price of live chickens? Hong Kong is big; in fact it’s sprawling…so as a tourist you’ll want to stay in the heart of it –but just so you know, HK has more than one heartbeat. Split
between two main islands, Hong Kong Island and Kowloon, you’ll have to shuttle between the two either under the water by train or over the water onboard the kitsch Star Ferry with a one-way ticket costing only QR 5! Pull up a pew and never tire of that towering view that waits on either side. Hong Kong's skyline is considered one of the best (and most photographed) in the world, with the surrounding mountains and Victoria Harbour complementing those iconic skyscrapers. Book a ticket in advance and take the super-steep tram up to Victoria Peak for a photo opportunity that may leave you slightly dizzy, but definitely amazed. Once you’re back to sea level, swing by the largest temple in town – Man Mo where you can pause for a moment’s respite under its giant hanging incense coils.
The city beckoned us at night so we left our jet-lag behind and hit the famous street markets. A sight to behold – hundreds of stalls selling just about anything line the street, traders try their best to entice you while you gawp at the Cantonese menus on display at the long line of restaurants either side of the market. If you speak English, forget it. You’ll need to enjoy some photos of the food to make your selection. We opted for noodles as they seemed safe and, thankfully, turned out to be. In fact, as our trip progressed we got more adventurous with our palate, at one point my husband chowed down on a rubbery piece of something that sure wasn’t octopus. He survived. That being said, if risking your health for street food isn’t your idea of fun then not to worry because HK is littered with hundreds of restaurant choices but you will try the Peking duck, you will.
We stayed at the far-too-trendy W Hotel on the Kowloon side with a room gazing over to Hong Kong Island. We zipped in from the airport in under 30 minutes with a super efficient train system that dropped us off at the flash Elements Mall. Pass by some fashionistas and you find yourself at the entrance to the W Hotel. Like the other properties in
One top spot for recommending is the ever-sofashionable Aqua Tokyo perched at the top of the Dior building on Canton Road where ladies line up for Louis Vuitton, (the real stuff) on the Kowloon side. As wasabi stung our nostrils we watched David Beckham gaze at us from a giant advert while the skyscraper lasers jumped from bank building to electronic empire.
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Meets West Indulge your adventurous palate at any one of Hong Kong's iconic street-food stalls
Hong Kong Disneyland
This is Asia, this is the future. Once the buzz of HK takes full effect, you may find yourself seeking a little solace outside its crushing confines. Located 30 minutes from Kowloon you can travel to Ngong Ping, Lantau Island (stopping at Disneyland on the way if you’re into that kinda thing), where standing 34-metres tall is Tian Tan Buddha. He’s a real beauty set to a backdrop of Asian temples and trees sprawling as far as the eye can see. The only thing is you’ll need to brave an overwater cablecar ride (with a glass bottom) so perhaps wear some red or yellow for good luck as the Chinese do. Where East meets West and tradition meets the full on futuristic, Hong Kong will leave you drenched in culture, drained from shopping and a full Buddhabelly of dim sum and fortune cookies. It’s the perfect stopover or getaway that welcomes you to Asia. n
Cable cars in Ngong Ping are dwarfed by the 34-metre tall Tian Tan Buddha
From temples to teahouses throughout the city, dragon statues are meant to bring luck and protection
Qatar Airways flies direct from Doha to Hong Kong twice daily. For more information on Hong Kong visit www.discoverhongkong.com.
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QH SENSATIONS
By Amy Bassett
A walking weekend in Venice gives credence to the fairytale claim that ‘all those who wander are not lost’.
F
rom the plane window, the city of Venice looks a mere bite-sized slice of Italy, a tiny lagoon island dwarfed by its inimitable reputation. Consider her dazzling influence throughout modern history: feats in civil engineering, maritime trade, economics, politics, the arts and culture, along with her fanciest claim…the ‘pleasure capital’ of Europe. As a city, Venice towers in the mind. La Serenissima is a giant in reputation, yet she looks tiny as the plane descends, as if I could skip right across her in two days. And I soon found out that you can, which is incredibly lucky for this traveller, because that’s all the time I had. The sandstorm that hit Doha in early April spelled 40 hours of flight delays and quickly distilled my planned long weekend down to a 48-hour whirlwind tour. Thankfully, once I cleared Marco Polo Airport, all it took was a quick stroll and a short vaporetto ride (water ferry) and I was standing on the side of the Grand Canal, the spicy scent of salsiccia in my lungs, watching the gondolas glide by. The public transport system in and around the capital is tricky and expensive. Vaporetto stops are abundant and will drop you at the banks of most of the landmark tourist stops, but they’re pricey. If you’re on a budget, take the local option instead, the traghetto. At two Euros (QR 8) per crossing, the local water-
taxi system is a smarter option for the low-budget traveller, although you’ll need good sea-legs. If the seats on the traghetto are all taken, you may have to stand for the crossing. This is shaky business kids! Venice has many must-sees: Piazza San Marco, the Basilica and the Doge’s Palace are architectural wonders; pretty by day and absolutely charming by night. Gallerie dell’ Accademia houses the most representative collection of Venice’s greatest painters, including the Bellini’s, Carpaccio, Giorgione and Tintoretto. For a more modern take on art, the Peggy Guggenheim Collection is a popular stop-off in the hipster neighbourhood of Dorsoduro. The Rialto Bridge, once the centre of commerce in bustling Venice, is an essential photo opportunity and you will most certainly find your way across that landmark by chance. Don’t pass up a night at the Opera. Legendary theatres such as Teatro La Fenice book out months before the opera season starts, but if you miss out don’t turn your nose up at locals selling opera tickets on the street. Ticket peddlers may look scam-worthy in their faded Venetian costumes but they are selling a top-quality night out. Sat in a shabby chic hall, decorated with fake plants and cheap light fittings, we were completely unprepared for the incredible performance we were treated to over the next 90 minutes – and with the bargain basement price-tag of 40 Euros (QR 164). Dive in to this experience headfirst, you won’t regret it.
The grand interior of the Teatro La Fenice
Picture-postcard perfection: the Rialto Bridge
Food (glorious food!) can be ‘lucky dip’ in Venice. While restaurants may seem similar in price and menu range, the quality can vary wildly, so ask your fellow
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Sunset washes over the Piazzo San Marco
traveller to point you in the direction of their last decent meal. There is fabulous, authentic Italian to be taken if you hit the right spot. Take your time and dig deep – we stumbled across the best mushroom ravioli ever made in a quiet little café off the beaten track. Breakfast? Do it like a local: pick up coffee and pastry for around 4 Euro (QR 16) from a pasticceria, a bakery with standing-room only, and eat on the go! Pronto! Hotels are generally overpriced, under-facilitated, and typical of popular tourist destinations –the service is basic, at best. Forget about it! You won’t spend much time lingering in your room so drop off your bags and hit the street. If you have a longer stay, head off the main island to the Lido, or Murano Island or any of the other islands in the Venetian Lagoon. A day trip to Verona is a great one-day excursion for those who want to venture even further afield.
The picturesque beauty of neighbouring Verona is worth the day-trip from Venice
Ancient waterways wind their way through the old heart of the city
Venice is busy year-round so you’ll never be able to avoid the crush but if you can help it, rug up and go in the cooler months. The crowds are thinner and it’s less smelly! Have your walking shoes ready to go, ditch the itinerary and put your internal compass to the test. There’s no sweeter day squandered than one spent wandering the romantic alleys of this charismatic city. n Flights: Starting from QR 1,830 (www.expedia.com) Accommodation: Hotels are expensive but www.airbnb.com is on the rise! Look sharp! Food: To suit every wallet
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QH SENSATIONS
Top-Down, Roots-Up
By Emily Alp Selected photography by Jessie Palanca
become aware of food’s impact on their health and their purchasing power’s effect on supply.
QH explores how Qatar’s ambitious national health strategy, combined with a growing grass-roots movement, is primed to supercharge the nation’s health revolution.
Given the scale of the problem, however, lifestyle changes are called for on many more levels, and in the local community especially. According to Qatar’s Supreme Council of Health (SCH), more than 71 percent of the local population is overweight, and 32 percent is considered obese or morbidly obese. Nearly 17 percent of Qataris suffer from diabetes, which is more than double the average worldwide.
D
espite its reputation as one of the—if not the—fastest developing countries in the world, Qatar presents its residents with a daily collision of old ways, developmental setbacks and futuristic demands. This dynamic attracts those who benefit financially from contributing to it, and keeps those hearty and eager enough to be a part of the nation’s change and growth. For locals, however, this dynamic was never a choice. The repercussions of this are especially evident when looking at health statistics among Qataris, who have embraced bits and pieces of a lifestyle without clear knowledge of the consequences. Specifically, a culture of driving, sitting at desks and eating processed foods has quickly produced epidemic-scale health problems among locals, and likely many residents. An import nation, Qatar’s demand for a wider range of whole and healthy foods has only recently begun to rise as residents
In 2011, the SCH announced a nutrition strategy to promote healthy lifestyle choices in Qatar. The strategy—detailing steps over a five-year period—involved food labeling; nutrition education as part of the core curriculum; promoting physical activity in the workplace; a ‘We Are Healthy Kids’ program in primary schools, and other activities. No doubt these initiatives will make a difference in building awareness, yet local health expert Nicole Van Hattem thinks grassroots initiatives will likely inspire more sustainable change in the environment and among the residents of Qatar. “Work with the traditional system,” she said. “Work with the traditional foods. The ancient foods are healing foods. For example, Ramadan is coming up now. Ramadan is not about overeating, overfeasting, over-processed; it’s about simplicity, calm. It’s about God-made foods, it’s about getting back to
what is real, what is natural. It’s about resting the digestive system. So work with that. Ramadan could be—and I won’t say ‘should be’ because it’s not my faith system—but it could be one of the greatest opportunities we have to make a big difference in the way that people relate to food…the way they culturally and traditionally use food.” CEO of Workplace Wellness Warrior, international best-selling author, success coach, inspirational speaker and de-tox specialist, Van Hattem has lived in Doha for a decade and said, over the past five years, most of the positive, healthy lifestyle changes in Qatar have happened at the grassroots/ community level—driven by small businesses, health entrepreneurs, food outlets, suppliers and community groups. “We set up Facebook groups,” she said. “You could ask ‘has anyone seen mung bean sprouts anywhere?’ Or [several years ago] simple things like ‘has anybody seen brown rice?’ which was really hard to get!” While it’s much easier to find brown rice, quinoa and health foods in Qatar today, more progress is begging to be made, and these once-small groups have mushroomed into community forums comprising thousands of people. Yet Van Hattem, who is leaving the country this summer, said she is excited about all of the people who have trained up
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change, build a sustainable income…this is why I really believe that health coaches are the way forward.” Van Hattem emphasized that this is not about imposing a healthy lifestyle on people so much as empowering people with awareness about what they are being sold and what they are actually experiencing as a result in their bodies. “80 percent of the results of your health change are going to come from diet,” she says. “You can exercise an overweight, obese, hypertensive, depressed, pill-popping person, and they’ll get a little bit of benefit. [You have to ask if] you are causing depression based on additives, preservatives, chemicals, overeating, eating the wrong things, not eating … you’ve got to start with food. We’re made of food.” Coaching people is about informing them and helping them make the connection with their bodies so that this signal is louder than what is being marketed to them, Van Hattem explains. It’s about going back to basics and helping people to understand the gift that is their body and how to take care of it in a global society that is still geared to sell processed foods and products, no matter their impact on health. , Holistic Health Coach After a decade of living in Qatar good late last month Nicole Van Hattem left Doha for iousness she leaves consc health of y legac the but – behind continues to thrive
“Once you empower people, they begin to look at food differently, and they begin to have a different conversation in their mind about food,” she says. “They change the way they look at food. They eat different food. Their body changes. It’s that simple.” In the end, Van Hattem sees the national initiatives as a great thing, yet hopes that people will consider a more holistic approach that includes individual coaches, health mentors, communities, small businesses and a range of healthy strategies that extend beyond just diet and exercise. Instead of focusing on treating people once they are sick, the system and society on whole needs to be oriented toward prevention, she concludes. “I think it has to be multi-faceted … you’re looking at lifestyle. When you’re looking at lifestyle, you’re looking at air, water, home environment.” n HEALTH MATTERS – WHERE TO TURN • Nicole’s Hot and Healthy Podcast – www.nicolevanhattem.com
Nicole (speaking with author Emily Alp) is a forerunner for advocacy and awareness in Qatar's growing health and nutrition movement
to carry on the work of sharing holistic health with the nation’s residents.
and need for health coach professionals who can engage and motivate the local and expat community.
She has worked with several impassioned locals and residents who studied to become health coaches over the past several years. Specifically, Noora Al Kuwari’s (on Instagram as Healthy_Living_Qatar) success in building a following and clientele has been almost instant and is a testament to the niche
“The idea is that if we don’t create sustainable businesses and teach people how to have a sustainable business, this health revolution won’t happen,” Van Hattem says. “If people aren’t creating sustainable lifestyles on it, then it’s going to be like dieting – a fad, rather than say we need to educate,
On Facebook: • Our Journey to Health in Qatar • Vegan Qatar • Gluten Free Qatar • 4 Walls, 3 Kids & My Coffee • Holistic Practitioners Network in Doha • Sabah Rabah - Vegetarian Treehouse In The Community: • Jones the Grocer has a new raw foods menu now. To learn more call 6696-0393 and speak with Jessica Munisamy. • Raw Ramadan initiative. Call 6660-5841 or 3332-4927 and speak with Luciana Farah.
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QH SENSATIONS
The Dish On Qatar
By Aisha Javaid
There’s nothing like a good hit of all-natural Vitamin D during the summer months, but in a climate like Doha’s the sun’s benefits often come hand-in-hand with more than a few risks. QH shows you how to make the most of (and survive!) Qatar’s intense summer, safely.
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should your They mercury has risen – and so temperatures heart rate! Don't use the summer exercise. daily r, as reason to for-go regula
A
s the days go by, the temperature rises. Yes residents of Doha, it is indeed finally summertime – out with the jackets and in with the T-shirts! Sunscreen, your summer playlist and a good book are things you’re probably looking forward to relishing. Of course, you’re all aware that it’s important to wear sunscreen or not stay out too long in the rays, but there are certain things that are easily forgotten in the midst of all those barbecues and pool-days. Though the summer may be exciting, there are some precautions we should all take while embracing the heat. The following topics touch on things that may seem minor but have the potential to create major problems if not taken into consideration! Therefore, we encourage you to read up on these small tips and tricks to ensure you all have a safe summer ahead.
Hello Hydration! This is probably the most basic piece of advice we can give you – but it’s also the thing many people forget to do. In such high temperatures, it’s vital that you stay hydrated. Try to get at least 6-8 glasses of water in your daily routine. We know that may be hard to remember in your busy day, but a simple reminder the ‘8-by-8’ trick. Drinking eight glasses of eight-ounce water will help you get to the daily 64 ounces of water (about 1.8 litres) that you need. Fun Tip: Find water boring? Spice it up by adding strawberries, lemons, or cucumbers! Not only will this add to the taste of your water, it will also cleanse your system of toxins.
Comfortable Cotton Bear in mind, the state of Qatar is an Islamic country so in order to be respectful try to refrain from wearing clothes that expose the midriff, skirts/ dresses above the knees, or uncovered shoulders. Instead, there are many other ways to combat the heat when stepping out. For starters, be sure to wear cotton. Cotton is the best material that allows your skin to breathe. In addition, swapping out polyester bed-sheets for cotton ones will also improve ventilation in your room. Fun Tip: Try and wear lighter colours during these months. Shades of white, cream, and pastels will all help in keeping you cool. Modest clothing items like maxi-dresses, skirts and culottes are great ways to keep cool while looking fashionable!
Getting The Right Amount Of Activity Oftentimes during the summer months, we can become lazy and neglect our daily exercise routines. With the heat, we can feel even more discouraged to leave the comfort of our air-conditioned homes. Though the temperatures may be unbearable, it’s vital not let go of exercising throughout the week. If you start to notice your daily activity is decreasing, try joining a gym in the evening after work. There are many great gym memberships offered across Doha in various hotels and sports clubs. If you’re looking for an alternative to the gym, why not try an exercise class like zumba or kickboxing instead?
a day, which you can track by downloading any pedometer app on your smart-phone. By walking 10,000 steps you’ll be getting your daily required exercise. Whether you’re at home or just in the office, try taking 10-minute walk breaks within the building. Before you know it, you’ll be racking up the movement! If you’re feeling even a little more courageous and are hoping to lose weight, you can also try altering your diet. Diets can be difficult because they involve depriving yourself of foods you like – which can potentially backfire and cause you to binge-eat. Instead, you can just modify your diet slightly. An ideal lifestyle change should encourage you to walk at least 10,000 steps a day while cutting out 25% of each portion size from breakfast, lunch, and dinner. This is great because it will help slowly reduce your food intake without depriving you – helping to keep you more fresh and alert instead of feeling groggy during the summer months! We hope these small tricks and tips can help you this July and August. We know that the heat can be overwhelming, but with this knowledge in mind, we’re sure you can make this summer one to remember. n
Fun Tip: If you can’t get to the gym because of your busy work-day, try getting in at least 10,000 steps
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IT HAPPENED
His Highness the Emir, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani Photo credit: Image courtesy of the Qatar Stars League
bin Hamad Al Thani His Highness the Emir, Sheikh Tamim y to the Al Sadd champions presents the 2015 Emir's Cup troph the Qatar Stars League Photo credit: Image courtesy of A player from El Jaish attempts to steal the ball from Al Sadd
THE EMIR’S CUP FINAL Al Gharafa Stadium May 23, 2015 92 QH July 2015 - FINAL.indd 92
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IT HAPPENED
Aladdin helps Princess Jasmine escape the castle
Sleeping Beauty's Maleficent
Peter Pan's Tinkerbell
DISNEY ON ICE PRESENTS: PRINCESSES & HEROES QNCC May 27-30, 2015 94 QH July 2015 - FINAL.indd 94
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Photo credits: Joe Agdeppa
TORO TORO GRAND OPENING Marsa Malaza Kempinski May 27, 2015
Photo credits: Imran Khan
ITALIAN NATIONAL DAY CELEBRATIONS Marriott Marquis City Center Doha June 1-7, 2015
Celebrity Chef Richard Sandoval (far right) and the team from Toro Toro Doha
Italian Cucina restaurant embraced its roots with some unique dishes made special for the occasion
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IT HAPPENED
Our QH contest winner Kevin Jacob Mathew checks in for an all-inclusive weekend stay at the Meliรก doha!
THE QH GRAB-BAG WEEKEND WINNER Meliรก Doha June 13, 2015
The team from Glow American s Salon was on-hand to keep guest looking their best!
BIG HAIR BRUNCH The Grand Hyatt May 22, 2015 96 QH July 2015 - FINAL.indd 96
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man (left) and Dr. Saif Al-Hajari, Chair Marjo Louw, President of Sasol Qatar him r Abdullah Ibrahim Hussein Imbra of FEC (right) present student Nasse tary bin Mohammed Al Kaabi, Undersecre with his award, alongside Rabia left) from Higher Education (second of the Ministry of Education and
GM of Public Affairs for Sasol At a separate ceremony, Jack Saba, from of recognition on behalf of Sasol Qatar (right) receives an award the Ahmad bin Amer Al Humaidi, for the Minister of Environment, H.E. Qatar e-Nature mobile application
QATAR E-NATURE SCHOOLS CONTEST AWARD CEREMONY Hilton Doha May 24, 2015
Photo credits: Imran Khan
ribbon Mr. Nicholas Hopton (left) cuts the British Ambassador to Qatar, H.E. of the Hamad Al Mohannadi, Director Mr. with ition exhib the urate to inaug ry of Heritage, Arts and Culture Heritage Department at the Minist
DOHA COLLEGE ART EXHIBITION 2015 Al Waab St. Campus June 2, 2015 97
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IT HAPPENED
RAMADANAK TENT PREVIEW The Grand Hyatt June 15, 2015
IFTAR MEDIA DINNER Doha Marriott June 21, 2015
this year The Hyatt was back in full-form tent! with their award-winning Ramadanak
tt with a Chris and Nadia from Doha Marrio e? very special guest! Camel ride anyon
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The team from La Cigale pulled out all the stops this Ramadan!
RAMADAN SUHOOR La Cigale June 20, 2015
nd from Hotel GM Andreas Wissdorf (seco team right) and the Marriott Marquis
SUHOOR AT WANASSA Marriott Marquis City Center Doha June 22, 2015 99 QH July 2015 - FINAL.indd 99
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PHONE DIRECTORY HOTELS Al Gassar Resort Banana Island Resort Doha by Anantara Crowne Plaza The Business Park Doha Marriott Hotel Four Seasons Grand Heritage Doha Hotel and Spa The Grand Hyatt Holiday Villa Hilton Doha InterContinental Doha InterContinental Doha The City Kempinski Residences & Suites La Cigale Marriott Marquis City Center Doha Marsa Malaz Kempinski Meliá Hotel Doha Mövenpick Hotel Mövenpick Hotel West Bay Doha Oryx Rotana Radisson Blu Sharq Village & Spa Sheraton Doha The Ritz-Carlton The St. Regis Doha The Torch Doha W Doha Hotel & Residences Wyndham Grand Regency Zubarah Boutique Hotel
4424-4881 4040-5050 4408-7777 4429-8888 4494-8888 4445 5555 4448-1234 4408-4888 4423-3333 4484-4444 4015-8888 4405-3333 4428 8888 4419-5000 4035-5555 4019-9999 4429-1111 4496-6600 4402-3333 4428-1555 4425-6666 4485-4444 4484-8000 4446-0000 4446-5600 4453-5000 4434-3333 4447-0000
HEALTH / BEAUTY
AHMED HASSAN BILAL GROUP
Amaoras RelaxationSpa 4408-4085 Angsana Spa 4434-3152 Bay View 26, Wellness Centre 4496-6410 Bio-Bil Health, Beauty & Spa Ladies 4493-4433 Men’s 4483-0989 Bliss 4453-5555 Bottega Verde 4483-4535 Coiffeur Française 4468-9211 Dados Beauty Salon 4498-0033 Diva Lounge 4431-8488 Doha Dental 4431-7766 Doha Marriott Spa 4429-8520 Ebn Sina Medical 800-2288 Four Seasons Spa 4494-8801 Frank Provost 4494-8844 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 La Cigale - Ozone Spa 4428-8888 Medical Spa Villaggio 4451-7590 Patrice Salon 4485-4012 Ritz-Carlton Spa 4484-8173 Saray Spa 4419-5517 Six Senses Spa 4425-6999 Snips Salon 4408-4083
REAL ESTATE Ahmed Hassan Bilal 4442-8877 Trad. & Cont. Co. www.ahbqatar.com INTERIOR Forum Design 4456-8716 RESTAURANTS Chowking Salwa Road 4437-1212 4431-4411 Chowking Al Saad St. Chowking Al Khor 4411-8816/4411-8817 Chowking Mamoura 4486-6077 Chowking Holiday Villa 4411-5225/335 PUBLICATIONS ABODE/QH Magazines 4427-8416
AIRLINES Air Arabia 4432-2111 Air France 4444-5101 American Airlines 4499-5737 Air India 4441-8423 British Airways 4432-1538 Cathay Pacific Airways 4445-8319 Delta Airlines 4483-0725 Egypt Air 4435-2901 Emirates 4438-4477 Etihad Airways 4436-6657 Fly Dubai 4422-7350 Gulf Air 4499-8000 Lufthansa German Airlines 4431-0212 Oman Air 4432-0509 Qatar Airways 4449-6666 Royal Jordanian 4443-1431 Sri Lankan Airlines 4444-1217 Turkish Airlines 4443-3027
TOURISM / TRAVEL Alpha Tours Ambassador Travel Arabian Adventures Cleopatra Travel Continental Tourism Darwish Travel World Wide Destination Fanar Travels Fox Transport Gulf Adventures Mosafer Travels Mowasalat Karwa Taxi Qatar Airways Holidays Qatar International Adventures Qatar International Tours Qatar Tourism & Exhibitions Authority Regency Travel & Tour Tourist Travel Bureau Victoria Car Rental
4434-4496 4445-7788 4436-1461 4443-9333 4462-2122 4441-8666 4467-1200 4441-3428 4462-2777 4422-1888 4432-0121 4458-8888 4449-6969 4455-3954 4455-1141 4499-7499 4434-4444 4443-5050 4466-6635
HOSPITALS / EMERGENCY AMBULANCE, POLICE & FIRE DEPARTMENT
999
DOHA CLINIC HOSPITAL 4438-4333 EMERGENCY HOTLINE 4435-5999 AL AHLI HOSPITAL 4489-8000 HAMAD GENERAL HOSPITAL 4439-2222
RUMAILAH HOSPITAL PEDIATRIC EMERGENCY QATAR FOUNDATION FOR CHILD & WOMAN PROTECTION HOTLINE
4439-3333 4439-2948 4466-6671
SHOPPING Alfardan Jewellery 4440-8408 City Center Doha 4483-0582 Hyatt Plaza 4469-4848 Landmark Mall 4487-5222 Lagoona Mall 4433-5555 Salam 4448-5555 Villaggio 4413-5222 Virgin Megastore Villaggio 4413-5823 Landmark 4418-2245
EMBASSIES American Embassy Bahraini Embassy Belgian Embassy Brazilian Embassy British Embassy Canadian Embassy Chinese Embassy Egyptian Embassy French Embassy German Embassy Greek Embassy Indian Embassy Italian Embassy Japanese Embassy Jordanian Embassy Korean Embassy Kuwaiti Embassy Lebanese Embassy Nepalese Embassy Philippine Embassy Polish Embassy Russian Embassy Saudi Arabian Embassy South African Embassy Spanish Embassy Sri Lankan Embassy Turkish Embassy U.A.E. Embassy
4496-6000 4483-9360 4493-1499 4483-8812 4496-2000 4419-9000 4493-4205 4483-2555 4402-1702 4408-2334 44128150 4425-5777 4483-1802 4484-0888 4483-2202 4483-2238 4483-2111 4493-3330 4467-5681 4483-1585 4411-3230 4483-6231 4483-2030 6622-1552 4483-5886 4467-7627 4495-1300 4483-8880
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