Qatar Happening - June 2012 by Qatar Happening

London

2012:

QR 8

June 2012

KiteSurfing

In Qatar

Takes Flight

PLAN YOUR OLYMPIC SUMMER GETAWAY

2 Euroh2ed0u1le Is

Full Sc Inside d Attache

Heat Up

Your Night

With Our Hottest Parties Roundup

Get The Best Seats

INSIDE:ch

FREE Brun A t Voucher A tel! o H r a t S e v i F

In The House For The UEFA European Football Championship

The 1,001 Arabian Nights At Al Mourjan

Best Restaurant Winner 2011

pg 46

OUT om K C E CH appening.c

Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra

atarh information! www.q test for the

CONTENTS

JUNE IN EVERY ISSUE 6 EDITOR-IN-CHIEF LETTER QH’s editor-in-chief tells you what’s happening this month.

8 QH RECOMMENDS Our favourite monthly round-up

16 TOP PICKS 18 Sonic Strings Electric violinist Marius Baetica plugs

in at the Grand Hyatt

20 The Doctor Is In

Enjoy a FREE brunch at Spice Market

Pullout monthly events calendar

at the W Doha to the cool tunes of Dr. Gabs. See voucher!

with happening events in Doha

22 Trader Vic’s

11 EVENTS CALENDAR

The famous Tiki-bar brings the Polynesian breeze to The Hilton

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

124 PHONE DIRECTORY Need-to-know phone numbers

ARTS & CULTURE

ENTERTAINMENT

28 THE MUSIC MAN DJ Mark Bambach breaks down the

origins of house music

30 ENTERTAINMENT LISTINGS Find out everything that’s going on this month

41 TOP PICKS 42 Young At Art A peek inside the talent at Doha’s

Youth Creative Art Center

44 Lipstick Dreams The Doha Players are back with a new show that shines

45 Sound Impressions The ASD Chamber Music Series

closes it’s season with a special CD release

48 Discover Katara The best monthly multicultural

activities to enjoy

50 ARTS AND CULTURE LISTINGS Find out everything that’s going on this month

LIKE US ON FACEBOOK www.facebook.com/qatarhappening

pg 72

COMMUNITY

Strata Restaurant Review

52 TOP PICKS 54 Talking TEDx We sit down with Director Lara Stein

and comedian Maz Jobrani

56 I Love Qatar A look at how the country’s post-secondary education system is progressing

58 COMMUNITY LISTINGS Find out everything that’s going on this month

60 TOP PICKS KIDS CLUB Fun adventures with the kids 62 KIDS CLUB LISTINGS Ideas to do with the kids

SPORTS

FOOD & DINING 68 TOP PICKS 70 What’s Cookin’? The best how-to tips to enjoy everything hot-pot at Sizzling Hot Pot, Doha’s coolest new restaurant

92 TOP PICKS 94 Game OnUEFA European

72 Strata Restaurant review 74 Yuzu Restaurant review 76 No Professional Baker

Fear not the flour! We show you how anyone can roll around in the dough

78 Al Mourjan Food Corner

Chef recipe

80 FOOD AND DINING LISTINGS

We bring you the best seats in the house for the UEFA European Football Championship 2012

96 Qatar’s Kite-Runner Kite-surfing sets sail as one of the nation’s most popular outdoor activities

QH SENSATIONS 104 Olympic Countdown

QH and Gulf Air help you plan the trip of a lifetime to the 2012 Summer Games

108 A Greek Getaway Antiquity meets modernity in

Athens and Santorini

110 REASONS TO FLY Our pick of top destinations

97 Get Your Motor Runnin’ Wrapping up the racing season at

112 VIRGIN RECOMMENDS

98 SPORT LISTINGS Find out everything that’s going

114 SPOTLIGHT ON MOVIES

Losail International Circuit

on this month

Virgin Megastore’s top entertainment picks for June This month's top five films

115 THE DISH ON QATAR Top tips for travelers and expats

Find out everything that’s going on this month

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

FROM THE DESK OF THE EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Now that June is here, summer is right around the corner; but before the overwhelming heat arrives we still have a busy month to get through. This summer all eyes are on London for the Olympics and this month QH Sensations brings you all the information you need to plan your Summer Games getaway. Sponsored by Gulf Air, we have all the info on flights, accommodations, getting around, tickets and the best spots in London to enjoy the scenery.

Publisher: The Art of Business Chairman: Ahmed Hassan Bilal Editor-in-Chief: Nasser Ahmed Hassan Bilal Executive Editorial Director: Moona Masri-Whitice Editor: Ashlee Starratt Associate Editor: Laura Prior Editorial Coordinator: Marlynne Mallari-Dela Pena

In Sports we take readers kite-surfing at Al Wakra beach for this month’s cover story. With a growing community of kite-surfers and no lack of beaches here in Qatar, with the right wind conditions this is a sport that anyone can enjoy with the proper training. We tell you where you can take lessons and what you’ll need.

Graphic Designer: Soné Moriarty Calendar Designer: Zahi Srour Sales and Marketing Manager: Deliah Furcoi Sales and Communications Manager: Jorge Granda Marketing Coordinator: Jeniffer Daclan-Ruiz

We also examine the importance of nurturing creativity at a young age with a feature on the newly-opened Youth Creative Art Center in our Arts and Culture section. QH chats with the Center’s Chairman Salman Al-Malik about the programs offered at the facility and also with some youngsters who are enjoying the opportunity for creative expression.

Photographer: Jessie Palanca Finalizer/Production Manager: Srimani Welagedara New Media Manager: Susanna Wolfe Web Coordinator: Imran Khan Distribution & Accounts: Lanie Fillo-Pana Contributors: Mark Bambach, Alex Corey, Khalifa Saleh Haroon Mike Moriarty, Rubina Singh, Gerald Tan

In Food and Dining we bring you a do-it-yourself guide to one of Doha’s hottest new restaurants, Sizzling Hot Pot. A subsidiary of Ahmed Hassan Bilal Group, Sizzling Hot Pot is the first of its kind in the Middle East, offering diners a unique experience that they won’t find anywhere else. QH shows you all the tips and tricks to preparing a tasty meal right at your table’s own hot pot.

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

Rounding out the Entertainment section this month, QH has the low-down on the best happening parties for June before things settle down for the summer. Don’t miss out on the last few chances to break out your dancing shoes and enjoy a night on the town with friends.

Call Details: Inquiries: Marketing: Fax:

+974 4427 8416 +974 5556 5046 +974 4427 8415

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

Next month we look forward to bringing you our combined July/August double issue with all the info you’ll need to celebrate Ramadan and keep you going until September. Then in August comes our special Summer Kids Issue chock-full of top tips on the best family-friendly activities for youngsters. It’s going to be a busy summer!

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

Thank you for making us a part of your lives.

All rights reserved 2011, The Art of Business. Reproduction in part or in full is strictly prohibited. QATAR HAPPENING (QH) assumes no responsibility for content of advertisements. QATAR HAPPENING (QH) retails for QR 8. Bulk subscriptions are available for QR 5 each, for orders over 50. 2012 June Cover.pdf

5/23/12

3:46 PM

Nasser Ahmed Hassan Bilal London

2012:

Editor-in-Chief

QR 8

June 2012

KiteSurfing

In Qatar

Takes Flight

PLAN YOUR OLYMPIC SUMMER GETAWAY

2 Euro 201 dule Is

Full Sche Inside Attached

Heat Up

CMY

Your Night

With Our Hottest Parties Roundup

Get The Best Seats

INSIDE:

FREE Brunch A Voucher At el! Five-Star Hot

In The House For The UEFA European Football Championship

ON THE COVER

Kite-surfer Flora Pestre takes flight Photo credit: Soné Moriarty

RECOMMENDS It’s June and the thermometer’s rising! The QH team has you covered, bringing you the ‘coolest’ products to beat the heat and keep you energized. Enjoy! EDITOR’S PICK Ashlee Saray Spa Dead Sea Shower Gel We get it, it’s hot in Doha and it’s only going to get worse before it gets better! This will be my first experience living through the heat of a Middle Eastern summer and my roommates have already warned me that come July even the water in the taps won’t run cold. Having grown up in a cold climate the idea of having to brush my teeth in warm water, shower in warm water and even swim in a pool that’s been warmed by the sun is a lot to wrap one’s head around. That’s why my Saray Spa Dead Sea Shower Gel will be my best friend throughout the summer months. This sea-green, creamy luxury is available at the Saray Spa in the Courtyard by Marriott Doha City Center Hotel and I’m already going to have to book an appointment to go back and get a new bottle. Scented with peppermint essence, the silky foam has a delightful cooling effect on the skin regardless of the water temperature so it’s the perfect shower item to get you through the summer sweat!

Soné Watermelon Cooler Thanks to Angelee Morrow who suggested a mocktail to keep me cool this month. I stumbled upon this fantastic Watermelon Cooler recipe on www.usmasala.blogspot.com that I wanted to share with all of you. It’s a great way to stay cool and healthy this summer! Ingredients: Watermelon (seedless) Sparkling water Crushed ice Mint leaves Salt/black salt Sugar Lemon juice Strawberry

2 cups chopped 1 cup chilled ½ cups 6-8 torn ¼ tsp 1 tbsp or to taste 1 tbsp (fresh squeezed) 1 for garnish

Method: Mix all the ingredients in a blender, blend until smooth, strain if you like and serve over ice. Enjoy!

Laura Harley Davidson Cowboy Hat

The cowboy hat – a classic. Every girl’s favourite, or certainly mine anyways! There’s just something ultra cool about this iconic hat that never goes out of style. It looks the business and keeps you protected from the raging summer sun at the same time. This one also comes with an added, extra twist of cool too as it’s from Harley Davidson. My husband bought me this gem last year from the Al Wakra branch of the Harley store here in Qatar and it’s still going strong into this summer. It’s the kind of piece that just gets better with age. Cowboy-biker-chic, love it! 8

Marlynne The Body Shop The Body Shop did it again! I love this Vitamin C Spritz, especially this summer as we need to cool down when the high temperature creeps in! The citrus scent keeps me energized, helps moisturize my skin without that greasy feeling and does a pretty good job in setting my make-up as well! It also smells good and keeps your skin glowing without the sweat.

Jenny Halo-Halo: The Summer Quencher! It’s the summer season and my favourite way to beat the heat is with one big serving of halohalo. A frozen treat can make a blazing hot afternoon almost bearable and this one is ideal. ‘Halo’, meaning ‘mix’ is a famous Filipino dessert of shaved ice and a mixture of various preserved/sweetened fruits with milk and usually topped with ice cream. It has many variations depending on the restaurants and region, but whatever the variety, halo-halo is definitely a summer favourite! You can find a really great version of this sweet treat here in Doha at any Chowking outlet.

Deliah Ray Bans Keeping me cool this sizzling summer are my beloved Ray Bans! Super cute with an ol’ fashionista vibe these two-toned ‘Malibu Peachy’ sunglasses are for sale at Royal Plaza. They go with any outfit while protecting my eyes from the harsh rays of the Doha sun. 10

QH RECOMMENDS QH Team Out & About Behind-the -scenes at Al Wakra B each for th is month’s kite -surfing cover shoo t.

Detachable Calendar Inside nthâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s his mo

ut t

Tear o

Highlig

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AVAILABLE at your

favourite newsstands! for only QR 8.00 Virgin Megastores, Qatar Duty-Free, GO Sport, Lulu Hypermarket, Lulu Express, Carrefour Supermarkets, Caribou Coffee on Salwa Road, Megamart and Sidra Stores at Woqod Gas Stations.

ENTERTAINMENTARTSCULTUREFOODCOMMUNITYSPORTS

TOP PICKS ENTERTAINMENT THIS MONTH'S

AND NIGHTLIFE

The Laughter Factory Returns!

Mon 11 and Tues 12: Ramada Plaza. This year it’s at Shehrazad every second month, on

DJ JOJO

Fri 7: W Doha. Crystal proudly presents

Monday’s and Tuesday’s. Three of the best comics direct from The Comedy Store in London. Both evenings are non-smoking events. Shows start at 8:00 p.m. QR 120 per person, including one drink. For more information call 4428-1555.

the legend of house and electro-house music coming all the way from the hottest parties of Beirut. From 11:00 p.m. till late. For more information call 4453- 5135 or BBM 26E78A27.

Sealine Summer Soccer

Fri 8 – Sat 30: Sealine Beach Resort. Step into the excitement of the Euro 2012 and cheer your favourite team to victory during match days at the Zouk Lounge and Bomba’s Grill as you are treated to a giant screen stadium experience and special delights and discounts. For more information email doh.sea.marketing@merweb.com.

OUT om .c CHECaK ppening

atarh tion! www.qthe latest informa for

DJ Charlotte Devaney (UK)

Art of Cocktail Making

Merwebhotel Central Doha. Charlotte Devaney is a DJ/producer, model, actress & presenter from London. She founded the dance act the Narni Shakers and has also appeared as a model in publications including the Sun, Nuts, Front, Esquire, Loaded and Zoo. She also costars in the comedy film ‘How to Lose Friends and Alienate People’ (2008). She’ll play a mix of Hip Hop/ R&B, Funky Commercial House and Slamming Electro with an urban twist. From 8:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. For more information visit www.djcharlottedevaney.com or www.merweb.com.

and the Habanos team will teach you some of the most exciting combinations including their signature Breath of Life cocktail. From 4:00 p.m. till 6:00 p.m. QR 225 per person. For reservations call 4484-8000.

Thurs 28 and Fri 29: M Lounge @

Fri 15: Ritz-Carlton Doha. Colin McCusker

SPOTLIGHT ON ENTERTAINMENT & NIGHTLIFE

Sonic Strings By Ashlee Starratt

Marius Baetica is not your average violinist. The musical virtuoso amps up the four-string, going electric for a unique twist on the traditional. Starting this month he’s altering the soundscape at Dunes in the Grand Hyatt West Bay Lagoon. QH plugs in with an exclusive interview. QH: Tell us about your performance here in Doha. Is this your first time in the country? MB: This is my first wonderful experience being in Qatar. I perform nightly in Dunes with singer Monia Lamarche from Tuesdays through Saturdays and every Friday afternoon I perform solo electric violin at Yum Cha Dim Sum Brunch at the Grand Hyatt’s Thai restaurant, Isaan.

QH: Who and what are your musical influences? MB: I was born in Romania; my father was an accomplished musician so I started learning music and how to play instruments very early-on in my life. Also my father sent me to the best music school in Bucharest where I got my diploma. QH: When you first picked up a violin did you know immediately that this would be the instrument for you?

QH: Going electric with the violin is a unique element for the instrument. Is it similar to the heaviness of an electric guitar, or are there small nuances in sound quality that make all the difference?

MB: My father chose the violin for me when I was five years old; all these years later I still believe that he made the best decision for me since I am still as passionate about the instrument now as I was when I was a young child.

MB: The violin is the most beautiful instrument in the world and also the most difficult to learn. You can only play an electric violin after you have first learned and mastered the classical violin. In many ways the two violins are similar but the sound produced by the electric violin is very different. The biggest difference between an electric guitar and an electric violin is that the violin has four cords and the guitar has six.

QH: What made you decide to take the instrument and go electric?

MB: Seeing the amazing Vanessa Mae on television a few years ago encouraged me to take up the electric violin. I was so impressed by her performance and the beautiful sound from her electric violin, that I taught myself how to master the instrument very soon after.

QH: Do you also combine and experiment with different genres in your music? MB: Because I come from a gypsy family I have a lot of sources of inspiration. I play a number of music genres and find it easy to perform traditional music from different countries. I also enjoy combining jazz with modern tunes and classical music. QH: How long have you been touring and what has been one of your most memorable experiences? MB: Montreal, Canada became my home twenty years ago and I’m lucky enough to be in constant demand by many of the city’s top hotels and restaurants. But one of my best experiences started five years ago when I began performing on cruise liners and really got to see some of the world. I have visited over fifty different countries and met people from all walks of life and nationalities. My favourite country (before Qatar!) was visiting Hawaii and all of its stunning islands and welcoming people. QH: Do you have any new albums in the works? MB: I completed two albums with my first singer in Montreal both of which were very well received. I’m now concentrating on an album that showcases both my violin and keyboard skills and in the future I hope to record an album of just electric violin numbers. QH: What do you enjoy the most when you take to the stage? MB: I truly enjoy playing music and making people happy. But when I play the violin I go to another world and when I see people in front of me looking and listening and smiling I honestly feel like this is my gift and my wishes have come true. QH: Where can our readers find out more about you and purchase your music? MB: Fans can find out more info and listen to my music on my website www.mariusbaetica.com.

SPOTLIGHT ON ENTERTAINMENT & NIGHTLIFE

The Doctor

Is In

By Jorge Granda

Doctor Gabs and his one-man show will be in town this month at the stylish W Hotel. The famous international singer and pianist brings his eclectic mix of melodies to the Spice Market for the month of June. Bring your appetite and voucher below and come tickle the ivories! Picture a master of swing, jazz and boogie woogie performing at Carnegie Hall in New York, the Palais des Beaux-Arts in Brussels, Victoria Hall in Geneva, and Kongresshaus in Zurich. Now picture an up-scale restaurant in luxurious West Bay located inside one of the most fashionable hotels, with the same master of swing, jazz and boogie woogie performing while you eat. Combine all of this and you get Friday brunch at the Spice Market this June at the W Doha. Doctor Gabs is one of those rare artists that can take anyone through an incredible

musical journey. His repertoire includes Jazz, Arabic, Pop, Reggae and Tropical compositions and has garnered him international acclaim. Jonathan Leaf from New York Press describes Gabs as “a jazzman who has studiously mastered all the styles up through be-bop. Yes, Gabs is an extraordinary technician who knows every trick that his instrument permits, showing off dazzling runs, arpeggios and intricate layering of chords, flourishes brought forth with both a strong right and a thundering and very fast left hand. But if he has studied, he does not sound studied. He is an unreservedly emotional player,

something many of us have not always found.” Hailing from Geneva, the good doctor owns the best jazz club in the city, providing a platform for young musicians to express their creativity. This year he begins a world tour, performing for the first time with his daughter, a fellow pianist. ABOUT DOCTOR GABS Where: Asian street-food meets slick city-chic at the Spice Market’s weekly Friday Brunch set to the cool tunes of Doctor Gabs. When: Friday, June 8, 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. Price: QR 320 including bubbly QR 280 including soft drinks Doctor Gabs will also entertain guests during dinner at Spice Market Monday to Saturday, from the June 3 till the June 13.

SPOTLIGHT ON ENTERTAINMENT & NIGHTLIFE

Trader Vic’s Debuts in Doha By Jorge Granda

If you’re looking for an all-encompassing night out, the recently opened Trader Vic’s at The Hilton Hotel in West Bay is the place to go. Trader Vic’s combines all the elements to keep you entertained all night long, fantastic Tiki-inspired food and drinks, an excellent Cuban band and a great Polynesian atmosphere. QH tells you why Trader Vic’s is the perfect spot any night of the week. For months the city has been buzzing about the opening of Trader Vic’s and finally the wait is over. This modern Tiki lounge recently opened its doors to diners and tables have been full from the get-go. Located on a sea-facing terrace Trader Vic’s embraces a very special concept, definitely the first of its kind in Doha. The AsianPolynesian feel is present in every corner of the place. Trader Vic’s is decorated like a tropical lodge that could be found in any exotic island in the heart of the South Pacific, capturing the spirit of a holiday retreat. Antique tribal artifacts can be spotted hanging from the ceiling and tribal masks on the walls. Natural exotic materials such as tapa cloth, woven grass wall-coverings and tropical fabrics, indigenous woven fish traps and hand-hewn canoes, Polynesianinspired colour palettes, lighting fixtures and furnishings add to the uniqueness of the decoration and tropical setting. As we walk in we feel like we’ve traded in Doha for a lavish bungalow in a South Pacific oasis. We start our night by getting our hands on a delicious (one-of-a-kind in Doha) Trader Vic’s signature drink, big enough to be shared between four people. The tropical drink mixture is presented in a look-alike small keg with four straws so each of us can take a sip out of this explosive tropical mixture. We continue our journey through the extensive menu with a mouth-watering edamame ravioli filled with ricotta cheese, mint, shiitake mushrooms, brown butter and parmesan cheese, and delicious crispy prawns coated with Japanese breadcrumbs. Our tastebuds now prepped for our mains we dig into a tender, juicy fillet mignon and a succulent lamb and chicken curry.

After filling up our tummies with food from the tropical aisles we keep sipping away at our great keg and listening to the beats of the Cuban band whose beats bring vivaciousness to the atmosphere. All in all Trader Vic’s is a distinctive stand-out; the perfect combination of great food, spectacular entertainment and lulling ocean breezes. ABOUT TRADER VIC’S Opening Hours: Noon until 1:00 a.m. Lunch: Noon till 3:00 p.m. Dinner: 7:00 p.m. till midnight Cuban Band: Plays from 8:30 p.m. till 12:30 p.m. Tuesday to Sunday Vino: Yes Smoking: Outside terrace For reservations: 4423-3118 Average meal price: QR 250 per person Parties of 10 or more are offered a choice of three set menus.

Dine with the stars. Strata, Doha’s nest new lounge & restaurant, is now open at the new InterContinental Doha The City. 55 oors up, Doha takes on a new perspective. Welcome to Strata – sophisticated company and a stylish setting above the glittering city skyline. It’s Doha’s hottest new destination.

For reservations or for further information, please call +974 4015 8888 email doharestaurants@ihg.com or visit intercontinental.com/dohathecity

SPOTLIGHT ON ENTERTAINMENT & NIGHTLIFE

Doors Open at Windows By Laura Prior Photography by Jessie Palanca

You’d be forgiven to think the Swiss-Belhotel may be an unusual place to party in Doha, but no more! Nestled on their penthouse floor is the city’s newest night spot: Windows. Living up to its name it offers epic views of Doha’s shimmering night sky-line while opening the doors to a new institution of Lebanese club culture!

s you take the lift to the top of the Swiss-Belhotel, prepare to be dazzled by dramatic lighting and swept away by the sounds of Lebanon. A little bit of Beirut right here in Doha, you can enjoy a wide selection of refreshments, nibbles and light snacks to the soundtrack of their resident vocalist Sana who will charm you with her tones in no less than three languages (French, English and Italian) before upfront house DJ Rudu takes the party to the next level until 2:00 a.m. Focused on bringing live experiences to the floor, Windows promises regular special live guests too.

A veritable cavern of futuristic decor, this new live music-focused spot offers up a good-time atmosphere seven days a week while their warm staff will welcome you like a regular and treat you as an old friend. With this remarkable mix of dramatic views and slick interiors coupled with its welcoming mood, this place uniquely strikes the right balance between ‘exclusive’ and ‘inclusive’. So, if you like a lively mix of entertainment while being made to feel right at home, open the door to Windows.

ABOUT WINDOWS Timings: Open 9:00 p.m. – 2:00 a.m., 7 days a week Dress Code: Smart casual Age: 21 years and over Specials: Light snack menu served Happy Hour on Sunday’s from 9:00 p.m.-10:00 p.m. Ladies night on Saturday Contact Info: Sales Manager Alaa Shoaib: 4407-8852

SPOTLIGHT ON ENTERTAINMENT & NIGHTLIFE

PartyHoppin’

Happenings QH’s Jorge Granda delivers an overview of the hottest, hippest bashes in town. Mark your calendars and practice your dance moves ‘cause June’s shaping up to be a busy month on the nightlife scene. DJ 4 Strings and Safri Duo The unapologetically cool Club 7 at La Cigale Hotel has positioned itself as a venue that perfectly fits the description of a true dance club. This month DJ 4 Strings can be spotted in the sound booth getting the crowd pumped with his unusual style. He’ll spin tracks in combination with Safri Duo’s repertoire of classical music for an experience that’s unlike anything else out there. Event: DJ 4 Strings and Safri Duo Date: Thursday, June 7 Venue: Club 7 Address: La Cigale Hotel Tel: 4428-8665 or 5518-8008. Dress Code: Smart casual Time: Event starts at 9:00 p.m. warming up with Doha’s most renowned DJ, Jared McCulloch. Entry fees: QR 300 for gents, no entrance fee for ladies. Rules and Regulations: Membership required.

SPOTLIGHT ON ENTERTAINMENT & NIGHTLIFE

Divas Night at The Pearl Lounge If there’s one club that needs no introduction it’s The Pearl Lounge – one of the first nightclubs in the country to have emerged as the place to see and be seen. This month The Pearl Lounge offers the Ultimate Ladies Night. If you’re ready to get your party on with your girlfriends, but can’t decide where to go, look no further. With its Divas Night Out every Thursday from 9:00 p.m. onwards, patrons of the lounge can enjoy free entrance and three free drinks while indulging in the smooth sounds of dance, hip-hop and R&B from the one and only DJ Joe Mitri. Don’t miss Happy Hour before your night starts between 5:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m. Event: Divas Night Date: Every Thursday Venue: The Pearl Lounge Address: Doha Marriott Hotel Tel: 4429-8444 or 6605-4192 Dress Code: No athletic shoes, flip-flops or work boots. No caps, hats, casual T-shirts, cargo pants or excessively baggy clothes. Smart dress only; it’s not what you wear, but how you wear it. Time: 9:00 p.m. – 2:45 a.m., last call for drinks at 1:45 a.m. Rules and Regulations: All patrons who wish to enter The Pearl Lounge must apply for a Registration I.D. card at the club for a fee of QR 50, by presenting their Qatari I.D. card or original passport with a valid entry visa to Qatar. Must be at least age 21 and above.Ladies receive complimentary registration.

COCO LATTÉ FEATURING SPECIAL GUEST DJ LEGACY + DJ MARK BAMBACH + HOSTED BY NICHOLAS LATTÉ Buddha Bar at Wahm Wahm is one of the city’s buzzing spots and a reminder of Doha’s dedication to becoming a truly cosmopolitan city. From the spectacular décor to the comfortable and sophisticated cabanas, there’s no mistake what crowd they’re after – the lounge is plush and caters to an up-scale clientele. Renowned Buddha Bar’s DJ Ravin has made Wahm one of his regular gigs when he visits the Middle East and he’s back this month to rub shoulders with the glitterati. Event: Date: Venue: Address: Tel: Dress Code: Time:

DJ Ravin Friday, June 8 Wahm Lounge W Hotel in West Bay 4453-5135 Smart casual 7:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m.

Doors open early for invited guests only (Complimentary beverages and canapés.) 10:00 p.m. onwards, open to the public with a cash bar.

Celebrated London clubbing brand Coco Latté returns to Doha for a second night of fabulous music teamed with fashion catwalk visuals projected onto giant screens and the best cocktails in town. Event: Coco Latté Date: Thursday, July 5 Venue: Rocca Address: Poolside at the Grand Hyatt, West Bay Lagoon Tel: 7719-2974, Coco Latté Hotline Dress Code: Formal Time: 8:00 p.m. - 2:00 a.m. Doors open 8:00 p.m., Party ends at 2:00 a.m., No admission after 1:00 a.m. Ladies free entry before 11:00 p.m. Gents QR 150, includes two free drinks VIP QR 200, includes reserved seating + two drinks free + free limited edition Coco Latté CD mixed by DJ Mark Bambach You must be 21 or older with photo I.D. to get into Coco Latté @ Rocca. 27

SPOTLIGHT ON ENTERTAINMENT & NIGHTLIFE

The Music Man By Mark Bambach

Mark Bambach is resident DJ at Rocca, poolside at the Grand Hyatt, West Bay Lagoon. Catch him every Wednesday, Thursday and Friday night. This month Mark divulges the basics of ‘house’ music, what it is, how it got its name and why it continues to be one of the most prolific genres of club music. He also keeps us in the loop on this month’s hottest industry gossip and sounds that will keep you hitting ‘repeat’. Breaking Down the ‘House’ What is ‘house’? Since its style is more popular, more commercial and chart-worthy than it’s ever been, this month I thought I’d shed a little light on the history of house music. The name ‘house’ came from Frankie Knuckles’ Chicago club Warehouse. Club kids who would frequent the place were asking local record stores “do you stock Warehouse music”? The name was shortened to ‘house’ music and the rest is history. Dance-floors were empty and DJ’s were positively lost after the fast-pace sound of disco collapsed. Frankie was doing re-edits of disco records with drum machines to keep his clubs busy. That’s where the idea started house was a continuation of disco. The first ever house release was inarguably Jesse Saunders’ 1984 track ‘On & On’, a very simple hypnotic, minimal and deep track. House is characterized by a 4x4 hi-hat drum machine beat, percussion, keyboards and vocals. The genre traditionally is deep, minimal and soulful, rather than progressive or trance and should fall under the umbrella of dance music. But music obviously has to progress and house is no exception, evolving from funky to soulful, hard and minimal to name a few styles. Some classic interpretations of old school house music tunes are ‘Inner City’ ‘Big Fun’, ‘Mr. Fingers’, ‘Phuture’, ‘Acid Trax’, and ‘Farley Jackmaster Funk’ – I could go on and on. If you want to hear some true house music samples check out www.traxsource.com. 28

AND IN THE NEWS THIS MONTH... New Adele single: The world’s most popular songstress, Adele, has recently claimed she’ll release a new single by the end of 2012. Hmm... slightly different from a few months back when she said “there will not be any new material for five years”. Like I said before, record company pressure will fix that! But that’s certainly good news to our ears. She’s also now surpassed Michael Jackson’s ‘Thriller’ in the U.K. by selling more album copies.

No Doubt comeback: Gwen Stefani and No Doubt have re-formed, scheduling September 25, 2012 as the release date for their sixth studio album – the band’s first in 11 years. This time round they’ve collaborated with hip hop and dance producers Diplo and Switch, (who have also worked with M.I.A., Beyonce and Usher), and reunited with Mark ‘Spike’ Stent who helped produce on their 2001 album release ‘Rock Steady’.

SPOTLIGHT ON ENTERTAINMENT & NIGHTLIFE

Hot House Sounds POP SAM SPARRO – ‘I WISH I NEVER MET YOU’ (Island) The Australian singer/songwriter is back in the limelight after his hugely successful self-titled debut album ‘Sam Sparro’ featuring the massive electro-soul single ‘Black & Gold’. His 2012 release ‘I Wish I’d Never Met You’ is the follow-up to the first single ‘Happiness’ from second album ‘Return to Paradise’. The album has a bunch of great club mixes courtesy of Westfunk, Azari and Stereogamous and this will see Sam back in the top ten. 8/10 NU DISCO CRAZY P – ‘HEARTBREAKER’ This month it’s time to feature a new genre of dance music taking over the U.S. and U.K.: nu-disco. What is it? Nu-disco has elements of house, (funky and soulful), but relies mainly on disco and soul samples. It’s a much slower tempo starting at around 105 bpm (beats per minute) and then ramping it up to around 120 bpm. Crazy P’s ‘Heartbreaker’ borrows rather cleverly the first three words from Aretha Franklin’s 1967 classic soul crooner ‘I’ve Never Loved A Man (The Way I Love You)’. Great Nu-disco track that I’ve been playing continuously for weeks! 9/10

R&B NELLY FURTADO – ‘BIG HOOPS’ (Universal) It’s been a long time since we’ve had an R&B release from Nelly Furtado, so it’s a welcome return from Nelly as she teams up with Rodney Jerkins for ‘Big Hoops’. It’s an average release from Nelly and I can’t help and wonder if there’s something more exciting from her forthcoming album ‘The Spirit Indestructible’ that’s got a little more to excite us. Still there are some great club remixes from the Wideboys and Michael Woods and undoubtedly this will gain club and radio exposure, seeing her back in the top ten. 8/10

COMMERCIAL DANCE JENNIFER LOPEZ – ‘DANCE AGAIN’ feat PITBULL (Sony) 42-year old Lopez is back with ‘Dance Again’ featuring Pitbull. This is the lead single from her next album ‘J to the L-O Greatest Hits’, produced by RedOne – the guys who brought you ‘On the Floor’. It’s almost identical in fact and has the same formula including Pitbull, so no points here for originality but it’s Jennifer Lopez so we can’t expect anything groundbreaking. Regardless it’s a good enough commercial dance release and this will get all the ladies in Doha on the dance-floor. 7/10

ENTERTAINMENT & NIGHTLIFE LISTINGS

ONE OF A KIND DJ Bliss Big Friday Night

Fri 1: W Doha. Crystal presents, coming all the way from the hottest parties of Dubai’s The One & Only, DJ Bliss, mixing it up with a special twist. From 11:00 p.m. till late. For more information call 4453- 5135 or BBM 26E78A27.

European Championships Live! Fri 8 – Sat 30: The West End at the Renaissance Doha City Center Hotel. Watch the European Championships live in Champions! With two big screens and new TVs you’re guaranteed the best seat in the house. Need your own space? Why not rent out the private rooms. For more information call 4419-6134 or visit www.westenddoha.com.

UEFA EURO 2012

Fri 8 – Sat 30: Ritz-Carlton Doha. Enjoy the dribbling skills, successes and emotions of your favourite teams during the European Cup of Nations 2012 with large screen viewing on Admiral’s Club upper floor. Also introducing its new menu in a special soccer-themed sports lounge ambience. For more information call 4484 8663.

Fan Zone at The Doha Marriott

Fri 8 – Sat 30: Doha Marriott. Join the excitement and thrill of the biggest football event of the year! Matches live on big screens in the Sports Tent: dedicated fan zone, ten large screens, surround sound, VIP areas, drinks promotions, hot snacks. Entry free. For more information call 4429-8422.

UEFA EURO 2012

Fri 8 – Sat 30: Grand Hyatt Doha. Rocca is broadcasting live, all the UEFA Euro 2012 football games with an unbeatable package for you, available from kickoff until the end of the match. For QR 170 guests can get unlimited pizza and pasta, including malt and vino! Come, support and be ready to make noise for your favourite team in Rocca! For more information call 4448-1272 or email rocca.ghdoha@hyatt.com.

Euro Cup 2012

Fri 8 – Sat 30: Sheraton Doha. Come and watch the Euro Cup at the Irish Harp and enjoy a lot of daily deals. For more information visit www.irishharpdoha.com.

Watch Euro 2012

Fri 8 – Sat 30: Oryx Rotana. Enjoy football fixtures in alfresco surroundings at Al Nafourah Garden this summer and follow your nation all the way through the sporting extravaganza to their quest for glory. Whichever European team you support, you can expect a warm welcome and a great selection of food and drinks, with a minimum charge of QR 150 per person. From the quarter-finals onward, they will be serving special countrythemed menus for each game – with 50% off for supporters of the winning team! For more information 4402-3333.

Pub Quiz

Mon 25: Ramada Plaza. Bring along your team of six to take part in Doha’s favourite Quiz Night at Shehrazad with host Andrew. No entry fee and great prizes to be won. Quiz starts at 8:00 p.m. For more information call 4428-1555.

London Beats

Fri 29: W Doha. Ameet and Klaus bring their international flair all the way from Europe. From 10:00 p.m. till late. For more information call 4453-5323.

EVERY WEEK DJ Night with DJ Roger Choueiry

Sundays: La Cigale. Enjoy the best in music from across the globe with this DJ. Rock out on the floor and dedicate your favourite songs to your special one at Madison Piano Bar. Ladies joining the DJ will enjoy one welcome drink on the house. From 6:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. No entrance fee and no minimum charges applicable seven days a week. For more information call 4428-8665.

Cigar Sunday Nights at The Lounge

Sundays: Kempinski Residences & Suites Doha. Discover a wide selection of exclusively selected cigars from around the world. Pair them with your favourite drink, select bites from the menu and simmer down after a long working day. Sundays from 8:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. For more information, call 4405-3325 or email thelounge.doha@kempinski.com.

Overtime

Sundays – Thursdays: Ritz-Carlton Doha. Why work overtime? Well, Level 23 gives you a good excuse to do so by offering two drinks for the price of one! From 6:30 p.m. till 8:30 p.m. For more information call 4484-8506.

Sushi Night At Strata

Mondays: InterContinental Doha The City. Open sushi and sashimi, accompanied by sake and stunning views of West Bay on the 55th and 56th floors. QR 250 including one glass of sake and QR 225 for food only. From 6:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4015-8888 or email doharestaurants@ihg.com.

Maher El Basha, the New One-Man-Show

Mondays – Saturdays: La Cigale. Enjoy live Arabic music in the eclectic mix of the chic, elegant, Madison Piano Bar, which is decked out in vibrant furnishings. Cozy and stylish, it offers a wide range of finger food, sushi/sashimi and cigars complemented by a selection of fine beverages. From 6:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. live entertainment doesn’t start before 10:00pm. No entrance fee and no minimum charges applicable seven days a week. For more information call 4428-8665.

Happy Hour @ Crystal Lounge

Mondays – Saturdays: W Doha. Buy any drink and get the second one free from 8:00 p.m. till 10:00 p.m. For more information call 4453-5135.

ENTERTAINMENT & NIGHTLIFE LISTINGS

Performing at Heights

Mondays – Saturdays: The Torch Hotel Doha. Jimmy Jackson ‘Big Jim’ is performing at Three Sixty, the only revolving restaurant in Doha, situated on the 47th floor of Qatar’s new iconic hotel. With his professionalism he fascinated VIP’s such as José Carreras, the Princess of Monaco, Boris Becker etc. Performing live from from 1:00 p.m. till 2:00 p.m. and from 8:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4446-5600.

Mashups with Paul Mendez, DJ Shadi and Suzee X

Tuesdays: InterContinental Doha. The three resident DJs presents their unique mash-up sounds from 10:00 p.m. at Lava with free drinks for ladies all night. For more information call 4484-4444.

Ladies Night

Tuesdays: Sheraton Doha. Feel like you’re in Ireland at the heart of Doha at the Irish Harp. Ladies free entrance and drinks, gents QR 100 including one drink. For more information call 4485-4444.

Ladies Night At Hive and The Square

Tuesdays: InterContinental Doha The City. All ladies enjoy buy one, get one free on drinks in Hive (excluding bottles) as well as a 50% discount on a buffet dinner in The Square. From 7:00 p.m. till 1:00 a.m. in Hive and 6:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. in The Square. For more information call 4015-8888 or email doharestaurants@ihg.com.

Retro-Electro

Tuesdays: W Doha. DJ Greg plays the best in R&B, Hip Hop and old school with a Crystal special twist. And that’s not all - three drinks for ladies on the house from 10:30 p.m. till 12:30 a.m. For more information call 4453-5135 or BBM: 26E78A27.

Moonlight Duo

Tuesdays – Sundays: The Torch Hotel Doha. Moonlight Duo performs from 5:00 p.m. till 7:00 p.m. in the lobby and from 8:00 pm till 10:00 pm in Flying Carpet Restaurant. For more information call 4444-5600 or visit www.thetorchdoha.com. 32

Kiss N’ Fly

Wednesdays: W Doha. Ladies Night at Crystal, where all ladies get three complimentary drinks from 10:30 p.m. till 11:30 p.m.! Check-in at Crystal for a special flight with international DJs. For more information call 4453-5135 or BBM 26E78A27.

60s & 70s Retro!

Wednesdays: Sheraton Doha. Let’s take it back to 60’s &70’s retro at the Irish Harp from 5:00 p.m. onwards. For more information call 4485-4444.

Ladies Big Night Out

Wednesdays: InterContinental Doha. Big Mouth will kick off the night in Paloma from 9:00 p.m., followed by DJ Shadi. DJ Paul Mendez will be in Lava from 10:00 p.m. The centre door will be open, allowing you to pass between the two rooms as you wish. Unlimited free drinks for ladies at the bar in Paloma from 10:00 pm until late. QR 80 entrance for men; ladies enter free of charge. Membership required. For more information call 4484-4444 or 4484-4936.

Girls Night Out

Wednesdays: W Doha. A special treat for our female guests that will surely make for an unforgettable night. From 7:30 p.m. till 9:30 p.m. QR 150 threecourse dinner / QR 200 with Passion Fruit Sparkling Sangria. For more information call 4453-5323.

Cheese and Vino Evenings at Hive

Wednesdays: InterContinental Doha The City. Enjoy a wide selection of cheeses from around the world accompanied by three glasses of vino for QR 180 per person. From 7:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4015-8888 or email doharestaurants@ihg.com.

Beautiful House

Thursdays: Rocca, Grand Hyatt. DJ Mark Bambach spins beautiful vocal, uplifting house music to a swishy well-dressed crowd. Dine on Mediterranean cuisine and sip cocktails at this sophisticated waterside venue. 9:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. Free entry. For more information call 7719-2974 or email rocca.ghdoha@hyatt.com.

R&B Divas

Fridays: Rocca, Grand Hyatt. DJ Mark Bambach lays down commercial R&B and classy house music from the past two decades. 9:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. Free entry. For more information call 7719-2974 or email rocca.ghdoha@hyatt.com.

Saturday Sessions

Saturdays: W Doha. It’s an all you can eat BBQ extravaganza, including two specialty drinks at WET, the Pool Deck. From 1:00 p.m. till 4:00 p.m. QR 180 per person. For more information call 4453-5323.

Habanos Happy Hour & Live Band

Saturdays – Wednesdays: Ritz-Carlton Doha. Introducing Rumba Trio pumping out the best Latin beats and current chart hits too. The band will have the place rocking no matter the crowd! Get up and dance the night away. (Except Thursdays & Fridays). Enjoy two drinks for the price of one! From 6:00 p.m. till 8:00 p.m. For more information call 4484-8000.

Admiral’s Happy Hour

Saturdays – Wednesdays: Ritz-Carlton Doha. Enjoy two drinks for the price of one! From 5:00 p.m. till 7:00 p.m. For more information call 4484-8000.

DAILY Criollo

Daily: InterContinental Doha The City. Boutique luxury chocolatier where all chocolates are handmade on site. Open from 6:00 p.m. till 10:00 p.m. Live chocolate making takes place from 9:00 a.m. till 6:00 p.m. For more information call 4015-8888 or email doharestaurants@ihg.com.

ENTERTAINMENT & NIGHTLIFE LISTINGS

Euro 2012!

Daily: Ramada Plaza. All the Euro 2012 games are being shown between 7:00 p.m. and 9:30 p.m. - perfect time for watching the games LIVE in Shehrazad. They are also launching their new menu, so make a night of it and head straight from the office. Picasso’s becomes the base for the Portuguese and Spanish fans this month, as we show all their games live. Come and enjoy Spanish beverage specials along with an ‘all you can eat Paella’ promotion on these nights. For more information call 4428-1555.

Euro Cup 2012

Daily: Millennium Hotel. You don’t have to travel to Poland to watch the Euro Cup as Zaman restaurant will welcome you throughout the season for a greater football experience. Cheer on your favourite team while enjoying good bites and refreshments in a sporty ambience. Opening hours: Breakfast: 6:30 a.m. – 10:30 am, Lunch: 12:30 p.m. – 3:30 p.m, Dinner: 7:30 p.m. – 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4424-7777 or visit www.mill-doha.com.

All That Jazz

Daily: (except Mondays): Rotana Oryx. Lose yourself in the sounds of New Orleans’ famed French Quarter at the Jazz Club. Good friends and delectable dishes create a perfect harmony when combined with creative cocktails and the best live music in town. With talents honed from North America and South Africa, 4TheMusic bring their original fusion of jazz, Latin and funk – and a touch of African rhythm – to the Club. Familiar faces on the live music scene, with previous gigs including the Dubai World Cup and the Russian Golf Open, this group of natural-born entertainers are well-known for their musical versatility and remarkable stage presence. For more information call 4402-3333.

Very Happy Hour at The Lounge

Daily: Kempinski Residences & Suites, Doha. Relax after work at The Lounge and benefit from the 50% discount on Tasting & Sharing Menu and selected drinks. 5:00 p.m. till 7:00 p.m. For more information call 4405-3325 or email thelounge.doha@kempinski.com.

Be Happy at Jazz Up

Daily: Mövenpick Hotel Doha. Enjoy two for the price of one plus 20% off the food menu every day from 5:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at Jazz Up, a new haven for jazz lovers in the heart of Doha. The perfect spot to chill out in the contemporary yet intimate surroundings while listening to smooth tunes and indulging in quality drinks and an extensive snacks menu with live entertainment on Wednesdays and Fridays. For more information call 4429-1111 or visit www.moevenpick-doha.com.

Shisha Under the Stars

Daily: Ritz-Carlton Doha. Enjoy your favorite Shisha under 1001 stars, on the Shisha Terrace. Choose from a wide variety of flavours while the Shisha specialists ensure that you have a full aromatic experience of this nighthonoured ritual! From 3:00 p.m. till 12:00 p.m. QAR 65 per shisha; a la carte food and beverage menu available. For more information call 4484-8000.

Happy Hour at Jazz Club

Daily: Rotana Oryx. There is nothing better than a Happy Hour at the Jazz Club after a full day! Now you can bring your friends and make sure your night starts in style! From 7:00 p.m. till 8:00 p.m. nightly with a super discount of 30% on selected beverages. For more information call 4402-3333.

Happy Hour

Daily: Sheraton Doha. Feel like you’re in Ireland at the heart of Doha at the Irish Harp. Enjoy live music and happy hour from 5:00 p.m. till 8:00 p.m. For more information call 4485-4444.

DJ/VDJ Tony Schwery

Daily: La Cigale. Enjoy a lovely night out under the stars at the rooftop bar, Sky View. Dine under the stunning Doha skyline with the hotel’s scrumptious hors d’oeuvres and mouth-watering desserts while listening to the best songs mixed by Doha’s newest DJ to the scene. From 7:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. No entrance fee and no minimum charges applicable on weekdays. For more information, call 4428-8204.

Afterwork Aperitivo with DJ Alberto and DJ Rochart

Daily: W Doha. Enjoy an after-work drink and the second drink, plus a Tapas plate from the new Mediterranean menu, is complementary. Enjoy chilled beats as only Wahm knows how. From 5:00 p.m. till 8:00 p.m. For more information call 4453-5323.

Longest ‘Happy Times’ in Town at Glo

Daily: The West End at the Renaissance Doha City Center Hotel. Avoid rush hour after work and come unwind with us at Glo before heading home. Enjoy the longest happy hour in town with selected beverages at QR 25 or your favourite cocktail from QR 35. From 5:00 p.m. till 8:00 p.m. For more information call 4419-6100 or visit westenddoha.com.

Happy Hours

Daily: Sharq Village & Spa. Al Seef and The Cigar Lounge both offer daily happy hours with 50% off regular spirits, beers and house wine. From 5:00 p.m. till 8:00 p.m. at the Cigar Lounge and from 2:00 p.m. till 8:00 p.m. at Al Seef. For more information call 4425-6666.

ENTERTAINMENT & NIGHTLIFE LISTINGS

Happy Times @ Champions

Daily: The West End at the Renaissance Doha City Center Hotel. Watch your favourite game or simply unwind with ice cold beverages and enjoy happy times at QR 25 on selected beverages. From 5:00 p.m. till 7:00 p.m. For more information call 4419-6100 or visit www.westenddoha.com.

After Work At Hive

Daily: InterContinental Doha The City. Join the energetic crowd at Hive and enjoy a 35% discount on all food and beverages. From 5:00 p.m. till 7:00 p.m. For more information call 4015-8888 or email doharestaurants@ihg.com.

Happy Hour at the Pearl Lounge Club

Daily: Marriott Doha. Unwind in one of the hotspots of Doha`s nightlife scene and enjoy a Happy 3 Hours every day from 5:00 p.m. till 8:00 p.m. Two for the price of one on selected drinks. For more information call 4429-8444 or email pearlloungedoha@marriotthotels.com.

Library & Cigar Lounge

Daily: Four Seasons Doha. Adjacent to the Lobby, the intimate club-style Library Bar and Cigar Lounge offers a selection of cocktails, single malts, vinos and bubbly by the glass and exquisite cigars from the mahogany humidor. The Bar transforms into an atmospheric evening venue with live piano entertainment. From 5:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. For more information call 4494-8888.

Shisha Garden

Daily: La Cigale. Set on a verdant outdoor terrace surrounded by water fountains and greenery, the Shisha Garden has recently set up a flamboyant brick oven, where the new Turkish chef prepares some mouthwatering charcoaled Barbecue grills to go along with your choice of Oriental Mezzeh and a variety of Shisha in different flavours. From 12:00 p.m. till 1:00 a.m. For more information call 4428-8702.

After Work Evenings At Hive

Daily: InterContinental Doha The City. Join the energetic crowd at Hive and enjoy a 35% discount on all food and beverages from 5:00 p.m. till 7:00 p.m. For more information call 4015-8888 or email doharestaurants@ihg.com.

WEEKEND Ultrachic

Thursdays: InterContinental Doha. Doha’s most refined house music night with unique music from Steve KZ and Paul Mendez with regular guest DJs. For more information call 4484-4444.

Pure Crystal

Thursdays: W Doha. Let the night take over as international DJs play the best in eclectic house music. For more information call 4453-5135 or BBM 26E78A27.

Beach Bar Lounge

Thursdays: Four Seasons Doha. It’s never too late to chill out as Pool Grill launches its most awaited Beach Bar Lounge, literally footsteps away from the private beaches. Relax and enjoy the selection of Caribbean and South American inspired snacks and beverages from the Tiki bar, while chillin’ and enjoying the enchanting view of Doha’s sparkling Arabian Gulf at night. From 7:00 p.m. till 11:30 p.m. For more information call 4494-8888.

ENTERTAINMENT & NIGHTLIFE LISTINGS

DJ Roger Choueiry at 7

Carnival Party

Thursdays and Fridays: La Cigale. 7 Nightclub presents a special DJ mix party with the renowned DJ Roger Choueiry on board. From 9:00 p.m till 2:00 a.m. No entrance fee for ladies. For more information call 4428-8665. (Membership required).

Fridays: W Doha. Enjoy a carnival party at Crystal with the DJ Greg’s special twist, elaborate tunes mixed with a sprinkling of Crystal magic. From 10:00 p.m. till 3:00 a.m. For more information call 4453-5135 or BBM 26E78A27.

DJ Alberto and DJ Rochart @ Wahm

Fridays: Sharq Village & Spa. Latin sounds set the scene for a lively evening. QR 85 per person inclusive of a welcome drink. From 9:00 p.m. till 12:00 a.m. For more information call 4425-6666.

Thursdays and Fridays (plus Wednesday): W Doha. They bring you the best fired-up tunes for the weekend. From 6:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. For more information call 4453-5135.

Sparkling Fridays at The Lounge

Fridays: Kempinski Residences & Suites, Doha. Ladies receive two complimentary glasses of bubbles. 7:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. For more information, call 4405 3325 or email thelounge.doha@kempinski.com.

FIX with Suzee X

Fridays: InterContinental Doha. DJ Suzee X plays only the latest house and techno all night long. For more information call 4484-4444.

Salsa & Candela

Rhythm & Oysters

Saturdays Sessions

Saturdays: W Doha. It’s an all-you-can-eat BBQ extravaganza, including two specialty drinks!! Every Saturday at WET, the Pool Deck from 1:00 p.m. till 4:00 p.m. for QR 180 per person. For more information call 4453-5363.

Sip & Savour

Saturdays - Thursdays: W Doha. Sip one and the second is on the house, together with complimentary Spice Market snacks. From 5:30 p.m. till 7:30 p.m. For more information call 4453-5363.

Fridays: Oryx Rotana. Enjoy oysters opened lively in front of you with a special display and exclusive offer. Get ½ a dozen for QR 85 and a dozen for QR 165. For more information call 4402-3333.

Arabesque

Saturdays: W Doha. Crystal proudly presents Layali 1001 Nights with the stars Jamil and Fady performing live all the latest Arabic songs and DJ Imran mixing the best of commercial house. It’s the only night where East meets West! For more information call 4453-5135 or BBM 26E78A27. 35

FATHER’S DAY LISTINGS

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sn’t s Day? e o o d er’ Wh e Fath lov

Doha Dads take note! Clip this page out and tape it to your fridge where all your loved ones can see it just in time for the big day. Hint, hint.

free

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Ritz-Carlton Spa

Fri 1 – Sat 30: Ritz-Carlton Doha. Daddy’s Delight, Tuesdays Gentlemen’s Spa Day, Poolside Cabana Massage, June Summer Scrub Out. For more information call 4484-8173 or email rc.dohrz.Spa@ritzcarlton.com.

Father’s Brunch

Fri 15: Grand Hyatt Doha. The Grill restaurant will dedicate this Friday brunch to all fathers, with special attention from team members and touches such as a complimentary a welcome beverage upon arrival. Chef Cristian Buenrostro will take very good care of your palate with a wide selection of their best dishes. Cherry on the cake: 15% discount on the brunch for all daddies! For more information call 4448-1240/41 or email thegrill.ghdoha@hyatt.com.

Crossroads Celebrates Father’s Day

Fri 15: The West End at the Renaissance Doha City Center Hotel. Enjoy Father’s Day with a sumptuous Friday brunch buffet and dedicated children’s entertainment zone with face painting, movies and games. From QR 215 including soft beverages between 12:00 p.m. till 3:30 p.m. For more information call 4419-6100 or visit www.westenddoha.com. 36

Father’s Day Dinner

Father’s Day Feast

Sun 17: Grand Hyatt Doha. The Grill restaurant will celebrate all fathers with a special menu designed by their chef. If you’re looking for a cozy place and a delicious meal to pay tribute to your Dad, The Grill is definitely the place to be. The set menu is priced from QR 250 per person; all dads will get a 15% discount plus a complimentary signature beverage upon arrival. For more information call 4448-1240/41 or email thegrill.ghdoha@hyatt.com.

Sun 17: Oryx Rotana. Did your dad always say there was no such thing as a free lunch? Well, he’s about to eat his words. This Father’s Day Dads eat free when dining with the family at The Cellar’s tapas extravaganza, with tempting Spanish dishes from the new menu and unlimited wines and beers all for QR 240 per person. For more information call 4402-3333.

A Touch of Class

Sun 17: Oryx Rotana. Looking for a place to enjoy a relaxing and delicious family meal this Father’s Day? A warm and friendly welcome with a fantastic choice of mouth-watering Tex-Mex dishes await you at Choices for QR 185 per person. All fathers eat for free! For more information call 4402-3333.

Sun 17: Oryx Rotana. Share a special evening with dad in the elegant surroundings of the Jazz Club on Father’s Day. Savour a complementary glass of the finest spirits with the purchase of any cigar and let the smooth sounds of contemporary jazz put the finishing touch on an evening to remember. For more information call 4402-3333.

Spice Things Up!

Father’s Day Tea

Wed 20: Grand Hyatt Doha. “Any man can be a Father, but it takes someone special to be a Dad.” -- Anne Geddes. Come and spend a delightful moment with your father along with a special afternoon tea prepared by the chef at Biscotti, where delicious pastries will be served to celebrate this special day dedicated to all fathers. Each dad will get a 50% discount as well as a special gift for this occasion. For more information call 4448 -1282, or email biscotti.ghdoha@hyatt.com.

THIS MONTH'S

TOP PICKS

ARTS & CULTURE

Mathaf Voices Tours

Saturdays: Mathaf: Arab Museum of Modern Art. Join Mathaf Voices interns for special tours of exhibitions, held in English and Arabic. 12:00 p.m and 4:00 p.m. Price: Free. Tours are first-come, first-serve. Please arrive early to ensure space. For more information email mathaf_education@qma.org.qa.

Visual and Studio Arts

Shostakovich’s Tenth Symphony

Daily: IAID. The visual and studio arts

Fri 1: Opera House, Katara Cultural Village,

program is a progressive course from Beginners, Advanced and Fine Arts 1 and 2 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 or 6671-0589 or email enquire@iaidonline.org.

Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra. Alastair Willis, conductor, Jorge Saade, violin, Ranjbaran: Seven Passages, El-Masri: Concerto for Violin and Orchestra, Shostakovich: Symphony No.10 in E minor, Op.93. Starts at 7:30 p.m. For more information visit www.qatarphilharmonicorchestra.org.

Tchaikovsky’s Pathétique Symphony

Sat 23: Opera House, Katara Cultural Village, Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra. Han-Na Chang, conductor, Stravinsky: Petrushka, Tchaikovsky: Pathétique Symphony No. 6 in B Minor, Op. 74. Starts at 7:30 p.m. For more information visit www.qatarphilharmonicorchestra.org.

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Chamber Music Series: Tchaikovsky‘s Serenade for Strings

Wed 27: Opera House, Katara Cultural Village, Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra. I Bekirova, Music of Vivaldi and Tchaikovsky. Starts at 7:30 p.m. For more information, visit www.qatarphilharmonicorchestra.org

SPOTLIGHT ON ARTS & CULTURE

Young At Art

By Laura Prior Photos courtesy of the Youth Creative Art Center

In the heart of Doha lies a hidden gem - the Youth Creative Art Center. Once uncovered, the QH team descended to check out this Aladdin’s cave of art. From delicate drawings to provocative paintings and quirky pottery we couldn’t help be equally as intrigued as we were impressed. Well, that’s the power of art, right?

s we’re guided though one of three huge villas which have now become home to hundreds of original and inspiring works of art, Mr. Salman AlMalik, Chairman of The Youth Creative Art Center , enthuses; ‘’Myself and the other people that started this centre are all artists. We know the positive and enriching influence art can have on people because we have experienced it for ourselves. This was the motivation for opening the centre, we wanted to share the gift and support young people in becoming artists that Qatar can be proud of.’’

The centre, which operates under the banner of The Ministry of Culture, Arts and Heritage, started small in 1997 with just a handful of students but a very clear focus; identify local youngsters with artistic potential, talent and flair and offer up a world of tools and support in order that they create their best possible work. Now a veritable hub for the development of such art stars, it now boasts over 120 students. ‘’In Qatar, there hasn’t always been this spotlight on practising art publically,” says Al-Malik. “We feel passionately at the centre about developing the culture of the country and this is channelled through the youth.’’

Mr. Salman Al-M alik Open to promising art impresario’s from the age of just 16 and upwards, the centre specializes in five main areas of fine art; drawing & painting, pottery, printing, calligraphy and graphic design. Students are usually hand-picked from schools or nominated through recommendations from friends of the centre. That said, public applications are very much welcomed and are open all year round. Mr. Al-Malik continues; ‘’although we are focusing more on advanced students, we also believe that art should be encouraged in schools and in the home. We need to nurture future talent from the grassroots to contribute to our society and cultural legacy.’’

SPOTLIGHT ON ARTS & CULTURE General courses run over six weeks, usually three days a week and often with the added benefit of one-on-one coaching with top artists from around the region. Stalwart Iraqi artist and coach at the centre, Asim Hadi injects experience and passion with an archetypal approach to art. ‘’ I think it is so important to teach young people the fundamental basics of traditional, classic art because sometimes art can get lost in technology in today’s world,” he says. “A focus should be on growing talent from inside Qatar and here at the centre it is our responsibility to encourage this and build a quality, authentic local art scene for future generations.’’

‘’ ..it is so important to teach young people the fundamental basics of traditional, classic art because sometimes art can get lost in technology in today’s world..”

Asim Hadi

By cultivating a new community of artists the centre often sees students returning year after year. Qatari born Palestinian drawing student Dana Murwan told QH all about why she enjoys being part of the centre. ‘’I have learned so much from both the mentors and my fellow students since being here,” she says. “I love being part of the projects and exhibitions and I would strongly recommend that if anyone out there has a passion for art that they apply too. It will definitely enrich their understanding, ability and appreciation for what they do. They can become the future of art.’’

Dana Murwan

The Youth Creative Art Center is open to the public and exhibitions are held regularly. So, if you are ‘young at art’ perhaps it’s time to get in touch? Check out their website for more info www.qalfani.com or call 4466-5650.

ARTS & CULTURE

The Doha Players

Slap it on with ‘Lipstick Dreams’

The community theatre group is back with a new comedy production that also tugs at the heart-strings.

our women, four dreams and one night to make them all come true – that’s the tagline for the Doha Player’s next production, ‘Lipstick Dream’, a light-hearted look at the lives of four very different womeneach with their own dreams and disappointments. Director Christopher Churchouse was part of the world premiere production team of “Lipstick Dreams” when it opened and toured Australia in 1988 and describes the wonderful depth of all the characters and the humour they bring to the stage. The play is set in the Blue Heaven Ladies Hairdressing Salon, in a small country town. Jo, the manageress is advised by the bank that the salon is no longer a viable concern. Since “Brett and the boys” opened a salon across the road, Jo and her girls haven’t been taking in enough to cover the tea bill, let alone the interest re-payments to the bank. So, with the help of her employees, Jo enters a talent quest at the local Chinese restaurant in the hope that if they win, the publicity will start bringing the customers back. On the very day of the contest one of the staff resigns. Things are looking down until one of their customers enters – is this the break they need to save the Blue Heaven? ‘Lipstick Dreams’ is a must-see play with something for everyone: laughter, tears, fun and songs that will have you dancing in the aisles and a great way to support local theatre here in Doha. The Doha Players Chairman, Peter Phillips, thanks main sponsor ConocoPhillips and platinum sponsor GAC for their support of community theatre.

ABOUT DOHA PLAYERS Venue: Newton International School, Lagoon campus Dates: 13-16 June 2012, 7.30 p.m. Tickets: On sale early June from THE One in Landmark and Villaggio. For more information, email: doha_players@yahoo.com, call 4447-4911 or join them on Facebook at ‘Doha Players Lovers’.

SPOTLIGHT ON ARTS & CULTURE

Sound Impressions By Ashlee Starratt

On June 2nd the ASD Chamber Music Series caps off another successful season with a bang as the finale, ‘Impressions of Amadeus’, takes audiences on a jazz-infused journey of some of Mozart’s greatest compositions.

he works of one of the most prolific composers of our time are up for an invigorated re-imagining as The Awakenings Ensemble led by Australian composer Michael Pignéguy take the stage in ‘Impressions of Amadeus’, an homage to Mozart through a lens tinted with the best in global musical influence.

Sponsored by IBQ and presented by the American School of Doha, the ASD Chamber Music 2011-2012 season finale will also mark the CD launch and concert premiere for the Ensemble, who’s debut album ‘SPEAK’ will be available at the event. For Pignéguy this kind of musical expression comes with a bigger message: “The primary goal of the Ensemble is to perform original music, bringing together broad influences within a context that has jazz at its roots,” he says. “The debut album reflects this goal and features artists from many different cultural and stylistic areas. Many of the pieces are inspired by specific social and cultural events, both past and present (particularly in the Arab world), and I hope they can serve as a talking point for audience members. Lastly most of

Michael Pignég

the musicians in the ensemble are also involved in educating young performers both here in Qatar and elsewhere. In this area I’m currently working on a proposal where a percentage of sales of the CD will be allocated to promoting music education to young people in the form of free workshops given by the group.”

Their debut album ‘SPEAK’ is also heavily influenced with a diversity of global flavour. Pignéguy explains the creative process behind the work: “I have to establish the core emotion/musical message of a piece before I start notating what I’m hearing in my head,” he says. “If I try and push the process along too quickly I usually find that it can be easy to lose that first spark which was the initial inspiration. Once that first phase is completed, it’s then a matter of finding the right music language to convey the message; I usually do this at the piano. Finally there’s the arranging side where melodies, grooves and chords are given to the various musicians within the ensemble in way that, hopefully, they will be excited to play!”

“..the CD will be allocated to promoting music education to young people..”

Nicknamed the ‘Sound Sculptor’ Pignéguy has recently joined the Qatar Music Academy, building upon his work with youth in Australia on the ‘Jazz Meets Mozart’ program – in search of new ways to interpret the work of the classical composer and familiarize a younger generation with the music. In collaboration with the ASD Chamber Music Series, Pignéguy and series founder Jimmy von Arek wanted to create a sound that blended jazz, Oriental and Arabic elements. The Awakenings Ensemble fit the bill as their global sound and diverse range of musical settings give new life to arrangements of Mozart.

For more information on Pignéguy and The Awakening Ensemble visit www.thesoundsculptor.com and to book tickets for the June 2nd ‘Impressions of Amadeus’ show visit www.asdchambermusic.com.

SPOTLIGHT ON ARTS & CULTURE

Nothing but the Classics

Han-Na Chang Photo credit: Sheila Rock.

By Ashlee Starratt

QH brings you the best symphony sounds with the June line-up of the Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra. Closing out the month is the not-to-be-missed feature performance of Prokofiev’s Fifth Symphony on June 30th – don’t wait to get your tickets!

f you enjoy a good night at the orchestra, then June will be a busy month as the Qatar Philharmonic hosts some incredible performances at Katara that are sure to keep tickets hot and seats filled. This month’s heavyhitter is Prokofiev’s Fifth Symphony on June 30th; featuring the world premiere of Houtaf Khoury’s ‘Angel of Light’ Piano Concerto. Soloist Tatiana Primak Khoury will delight audiences on the piano as Han-Na Chang conducts. Chang has garnered international accolades for her musical accomplishments, hailed as one of the best cellists in the world at the young age of 30. The show starts at 7:30 p.m. and tickets can be purchased from Virgin Megastores at Landmark and Villaggio malls, online at www.virginmegastore.me or directly at the Opera House at Katara.

Need more QPO? Here’s the rest of June: Shostakovich’s Tenth Symphony: Friday, June 1, 2012, 7:30 p.m. Alastair Willis, conductor Tatiana Primak Khoury Jorge Saade, violin Ranjbaran: Seven Passages June 23, 2012, 7:30 p.m. El-Masri: Concerto for Violin Han-Na Chang, and Orchestra conductor Shostakovich: Symphony No.10 Stravinsky: Petrushka in E minor, Op.93 Tchaikovsky: Pathétique Chamber Music Symphony No. 6 in Series: Nostalgia: Works by MAias B Minor, Op. 74 Alyamani for Strings Chamber Wednesday, Music Series: Tchaikovsky‘s June 20, 2012, 7:30 p.m. Serenade for Strings Tchaikovsky’s Wednesday, Pathétique June 27, 2012, 7:30 p.m. Symphony Music of Vivaldi Saturday, and Tchaikovsky

SPOTLIGHT ON ARTS & CULTURE

Discover By Jorge Granda

Katara

With it’s reputation as Qatar’s ultimate cultural hub, Katara gears up for summer with a host of top-notch events for June. With an acclaimed cinema offering, a unique exhibition and a fund-raiser that’s sure to draw support, QH explores a few of the highlights you can enjoy. Katara Cultural Village amazes its visitors with its extraordinary architecture, Arabian feel and one-of-a-kind events. This month is no exception as film buffs will have the chance to experience the power of Iranian film-making at the Katara DFI Cinema Series, while art lovers can enjoy the new ‘SARAYA’ exhibition. The Cultural Village is also staging a fund-raising event where Qatari artists will display their best work. KATARA DFI CINEMA SERIES, ‘A SEPARATION’ ‘A Separation’ is one of the most successful Iranian films of the last decade. It was awarded the Academy Award for best Foreign Language Film in the 84th edition of the Oscars back in January. Written and directed by Ashhar Farhadi and starring Leila Hatami, Peyman Moaadi, Shahab Hosseini, Sareh Bayat and Sarina Farhadi, the movie focuses on a married couple who faces a difficult dilemma – the hard decision to either remain in their home country (Iran) or move to another country to improve the life of their children. The modern masterpiece is filled with emotional moments as the couple gets tangled in a web of lies and manipulative games. The movie also won the Golden Bear for Best Film and the Silver Bear for Best Actress and Best Actor at the 61st Berlin International Film Festival. It also received the award for Best Foreign Language Film at the 69th edition of the Golden Globes.

‘SARAYA’ EXHIBITION

KATARA WITH LOVE

For the first time, fashion lovers will have the opportunity to see Saraya fashion designs showcased at the Katara Art Centre on Friday, June 15. The collection is specially designed to be exhibited during the holy month of Ramadan. The event will take place at the Katara Art Centre Fashion Boutique in Building 5 at 7:00 p.m. The extraordinary collection (produced in Sharjah) fuses rich fabrics, alluring colours and exquisite outlines from the cultures of the Orient. The materials used for the collection come from exotic places such as India, Afghanistan, Yemen, Turkey and Egypt.

From Thursday 28 to Sunday 30, Katara will organize a fund-raising event with a sale of hand-made crafts and artwork. All participants are Qatari nationals and during the three-day event artists will display their best work, creativity and skill, producing home-made products and paintings. Sixty percent of funds raised will go to different charitable causes around the country. The event will also include two nights of poetry with famous Qatari poets. Don’t miss the opportunity to give back and be part of something special.

SPOTLIGHT ON ARTS & CULTURE

ABOUT KATARA Event: Katara DFI Cinema Series: ‘A Separation’ Timings: 12 June 5:30 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. 13 June at 9:00 p.m. 14 June at 5:30 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. 15 June at 5:30 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. 16 June at 3:30 p.m. 17 June at 5:30 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. 18 June at 5:30 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. Venue: Drama Theater - Bldg.16 Event: Date: Time: Venue:

‘SARAYA’ Exhibition June 15 7:00 p.m. Building 15

Event: Date: Time: Venue:

Katara with Love From Thursday 28 to Sunday 30 June from 5:00 p.m. till 10:00 p.m. Building 22 49

ARTS & CULTURE LISTINGS

ONE OF A KIND

Unparalled Objective: Photo Exhibit

Chamber Music Series: Nostalgia

Wed 20: Katara Cultural Village. Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra. Compositions by MAias Alyamani for String Orchestra Opera House, Patrizia Döringer, violin, Dmitri Torchinsky, violin, Nina Heidenreich, violin, Mohammed Sharara, violin, MAias Alyamani, violin, Islam Nour Elhefnawy, violin, Shaza Mohamed Oweda, violin, Ana-Maria Rusu, violin, Georges Yammine, violin, Nora Bacsovics, violin, Andrea Mereutza, viola, Victor Soumenkov, viola, Islam Abd Elaziz, viola, Judit Kelemen, viola, Kirill Bogatyrev, cello, Hassan Moataz El Molla, cello, Christoph Schmitz, cello, Hosam Hagag, double bass. Starts at 7:30 p.m. For more information visit www.qatarphilharmonicorchestra.org.

Prokofiev’s Fifth Symphony

Sat 30: Opera House, Katara Cultural Village. Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra. Han-Na Chang, conductor, Tatiana Primak Khoury, piano, Houtaf Khoury: Angel of Light Concerto for Piano and Orchestra (World Premiere), Prokofiev: Symphony No. 5 in B Flat Major, Op. 100. Starts at 7:30 p.m. For more information, visit www.qatarphilharmonicorchestra.org.

Radhika Khimji: Solo Exhibition

Tues 12: 10:00 a.m. till 10:00 p.m. until July 14, Katara Gallery 2, Bldg 19. Radhika Khimji was born in Muscat, Oman in 1979. After completing her BFA at the Slade School of Fine Art she did her postgraduate studies at the Royal Academy of Fine Arts in London. Her most recent exhibitions include a solo show at the Bose Pacia in New York and group exhibitions at the Saatchi Gallery and INIVA in London. For more information visit www.katara.net.

Sat 30: 10:00 a.m. till 10:00 p.m., Katara Art Centre. Join artists Christto Sanz and Andrew Jay Weir as they unveil a photo exhibition exploring Middle Eastern identities perceived in post-modern conditions. The artists aim to address everyday misconceptions of Arab and Middle Eastern cultures in a multicultural context and the exchange that takes place under such settings.

EVERY WEEK Classes At Katara

Waad Mohammed: Fashion Show

Fri 22: 10:00 a.m. till 10:00 p.m., Katara Gallery 2, Bldg 19. Celebrate the launch of the Qatari Fashion Designer Waad Mohammed’s unique collection. Drawing influence from Vera Wang, Oscar de la Renta and Lanvin, Waad is eponymous with her couture abaya and clothes lines. Come and enjoy this simple, timeless collection of garments that make a woman feel luxuriously beautiful at reasonable prices. For more information visit www.katara.net.

Ongoing: Drawing and Painting Class, Print-Making Class: Lithograph Colour Print –Multi-plate, Cover Design Basis: Computer Graphics Class and Ceramic Class: Techniques in the Glaze. All courses held at the Visual Art Centre Bldg 19. To register and for a complete list of class timings call 4408-1371.

Quran Lessons for Girls and Boys

Ongoing: Registration begins on June 1 with classes held at the Katara Main Mosque. To register email edu@katara.net.

THIS MONTH'S

TOP PICKS

COMMUNITY

Garden Club Mon 25: The One Coffee Shop,Landmark. Talk about all things green! With regular presenters and garden tours. This month they will visit the Garden Souqs from 10:30 a.m. till 12:00 p.m. For more information visit www.dohamums.com or email events@dohamums.com.

Estée Lauder Beauty Event Mon 4: Beauty 4U, Royal Plaza. Doha Mums members are invited to an exclusive presentation on Estée Lauder from 9:00 a.m. till 11:30 a.m. Mums will be presented with the Advanced Skin Profiling System plus receive valuable information on the best skincare line and shown the latest make-up collection. No children will be permitted. For further details visit www.dohamums.com or email events@dohamums.com.

Swap Club Qatar Saturdays (bi-weekly): The Pearl-Qatar. A community group for expats in Qatar to meet, find friends and swap their old books and CDs and enjoy reading new books for free! From 10:00 a.m. till 12:00 p.m. For more information email swapclubqatar@hotmail.com.

Book Club Wednesdays: Institut Français French School. An opportunity to discuss thoughtprovoking and topical books. The reading list is chosen by book club members and ranges from contemporary prize-winners to literary classics. A lively discussion is always guaranteed. Meeting once a month. For more information call 4493- 0268 or visit www.institutfrancais-qatar.com.

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French Conversation Workshops Thursdays and Saturdays: Institut Français French School. Improve your comprehension of the spoken language and gain confidence in speaking French. The workshop is held by the journalist from Oryx FM, the French speaking radio in Doha. Thursdays 6:00 p.m. till 8:00 p.m. and Saturdays 10:00 a.m. till 12:00 p.m. For more information call 4493-0268 or visit www.institutfrancais-qatar.com.

SPOTLIGHT ON COMMUNITY

Talking

TEDx By Rubina Singh

QH catches up with two of the most prolific speakers from the recent TEDx talks here in Doha, bringing you in-depth interviews with TEDx director Lara Stein and Iranian-American comedian Maz Jobrani. A lateral-thinking disposition, a passion for storytelling and an altruistic desire to change the world, brought Lara Stein’s destiny to unfold as Director of internationally-acclaimed philanthropic organization TEDx. From ballet dancing to film-making, to media consultancy, she has done it all and is now the driving force behind TEDx’s 14-city global talent search for new contributors to its expanding global footprint. QH: In layman terms, what are you responsible for? LS: I founded and manage the TEDx program. I drive the vision and strategy of TEDx and I manage the overall growth of the program. QH: What inspires you? LS: I love new ideas. I believe the seeds of an idea can shift perceptions and change the world. I also believe better education is the solution to many of the world’s problems. I am inspired by creativity and people who see the world differently. QH: What aspects of your personality and experience, do you think make you suitable for this role?

LS: I love the concept of a Renaissance person. I have a somewhat eclectic background. I’ve produced films and TV series, managed teams of 250 people, have a basic understanding of technology and digital strategy and I have written business plans. I love to travel, understand people and cultures. I believe I draw on all of these experiences and bring them to bare, growing and managing TEDx. QH: What part of your role do you enjoy most and which, the least?

QH: Why Doha? LS: I wanted a location in the Middle East, as I believe it is symbolic. Building bridges between East and West is key to our long term survival as a species. Understanding and having tolerance for the other is a key to peace. Doha is the perfect location to kick off global conversations around collaboration, bridge building and our shared future. Thanks to Her Excellency Sheikha

LS: The best part of being the director of TEDx is meeting organizers from all over the world and managing my incredible TEDx team in NYC. My least favorite aspect is dealing with internal politics.

Al Mayassa Al-Thani’s generosity and DFI’s support, we were able to host this in Doha. Doha is also one of the few places on the planet that one can get visas regardless of the country of origin. With 90 countries attending the summit this was an important consideration.

QH: What is the purpose of the TEDx Summit?

QH: What was the most enjoyable part of your visit to Doha?

LS: The TEDx Summit is the first time we’re bringing together more than 650 TEDx organizers from over 90 different countries across the globe for a week of workshops, collaborative projects, regional and cross-regional brainstorming. It was also the first time we hosted a TED session in the Middle East.

LS: The people, the desert and the hospitality! We took all 650 TEDx organizers to the desert for a day of workshops around regional collaboration and it was an amazing experience.

SPOTLIGHT ON COMMUNITY

QH: What was the most disappointing? LS: The lack of recycling. QH: What does the future of the selected TEDx speakers from Doha involve? LS: TEDx is hosting a 14-city global talent search to find new and unexpected voices. Events are confirmed on six continents: in Amsterdam, Bangalore, Doha, Johannesburg, London, Nairobi, New York, Sao Paulo, Seoul, Shanghai, Sydney, Tokyo, Tunis and Vancouver – all between April and June 2012. Some of the best selections will be invited to speak or perform at TED2013. Those who aren’t selected for the program will nonetheless receive global recognition on TED.com.

QH: Define yourself in five words? MJ: Hmm, kind of tough to do. The good news is that these days there’s Google so if someone asked me that question I’d answer it with two words “Google me.”

QH: Give us a peek into your background... to your journey so far

A founding member of the Axis of Evil Comedy Tour and a global sensation who has sold out shows everywhere , even performing for the King and Queen of Jordan, comedian Maz Jobrani has conquered the world of film, television and stand-up comedy. Jobrani believes in breaking stereotypes and his comedy often revolves around the juxtaposition of his Middle Eastern origin and his experience of growing up as an American. Maz was in Qatar recently to trickle his peculiar brand of humour amongst selective guests during his day and a half stay in Doha, where QH caught up with him.

MJ: I’m a comedian. Growing up in America with Iranian parents they didn’t see that as a career option. So I went to UC Berkeley where I studied political science in the hopes of becoming a lawyer. Then my junior year in college I studied a year abroad in Italy where I decided I wanted to be a professor. I went to UCLA to get my Ph.D., but dropped out the first year to get back into acting. I had started doing plays since I was 12 and loved being onstage. It took me ‘til I was 26, when I finally decided I wanted to pursue acting and comedy professionally. QH: Has your change of residence to U.S. changed you much as a person? MJ: I was born in Iran and we moved to Northern California when I was six years old, at the time of the Iranian revolution. I pretty much have lived my whole life in the U.S. I’m sure it has affected me somewhat, but I have also maintained someof my Iranian culture.

QH: Your ability to make your point in an extremely inoffensive way, no matter how controversial the topic is very creditable. Is this a talent you were born with or something you developed and how? MJ: I think after 14 years of getting onstage 5-10 times a week you learn how to get a message across in an inoffensive manner. Someone once said that comedy is like giving people their medicine, but hidden in orange juice. They get the meds, but don’t know they’re getting it. QH: Your message to today’s youth? MJ: Do what you’re passionate about in life. That and be good to others and don’t discriminate based on race, colour, religion. QH: What is the one thing in your life that you hope to achieve and haven’t done so far? MJ: I’m actually very happy with my life. Someone once asked me when I will consider myself successful. I told them the moment I started doing what I love I was successful. Anything after that has been icing on the cake.

SPOTLIGHT ON COMMUNITY

A Peek Inside The Classroom By Khalifa Saleh Haroon

As Education City celebrates its latest batch of new graduates, I Love Qatar looks at how the post-secondary education system in Qatar is a work-in-progress that continues to move forward.

’m a huge fan of the Qatar Foundation’s initiatives. I love the push for the development of a knowledge-based economy through Education City, especially since the education system was quite poor not too long ago. I actually studied in an international baccalaureate school in Bahrain. The education system was considered to be ahead of Qatar; there were more choices when it came to private schools and parents had a choice of putting their children in a school with a British, American, Canadian, or French curriculum.

Anyway, before I go off on too much of a tangent, let’s get back to talking about Education City – look at Qatar now! We’ve got more schools, choice of universities and the nation is encouraged to ‘Think’ and ‘Innovate’. Just in case you weren’t sure, there were signs, adverts, and giant words on the Corniche that spelled it out for you. Education City itself is a great idea; getting the world’s best universities together on the same campus. So much so that more foreign students are choosing to come to Education City for their further education and more Qatari’s are starting to choose to stay in the country.

Two thoughts that come to my mind though are: What’s missing in Education City? And is it better for a Qatari to study here in Qatar than going off abroad? I feel like the university campuses are still lacking in facilities and in having that community feel. As beautifully designed as they are, they don’t feel like the campuses I studied at and visited when I was in the UK. Campuses had squares or outdoor common areas, restaurants, cafes, recreational areas, or even arcades – it felt like a little town. Plus most universities were close to actual town centers; at the

SPOTLIGHT ON COMMUNITY moment students are sort of isolated. Most need a car to get around (alright this is Doha so it’s understandable), but they’re quite far from the main city. I’ve been told by some students that there’s a nickname for the mood they get into because they don’t feel like they’ve got enough to do, it’s called the ‘Doha Depression’. Honestly, it’ depressing to hear that such a phrase or expression exists. When I pressed to ask why they felt that way, I was told that they didn’t think there was enough to do or places to go. Honestly, part of university life is the social experience. Learning to interact, mingle, make friends with strangers, hang out, play sports, and explore. I’ve heard of great plans to build malls, more sports grounds and even a cinema, but I haven’t seen them so far. I wonder what the hold up is. It was also fun having different universities competing with one another! “We’ve got the best- looking building, the best cafes,

the best courses for Sociology 305….” – you get the point. Right now I feel like Education City is the university and the different universities are departments. Not only because they’re so close to each other, but because of the shared student spaces. Should each university be more independent infrastructure-wise as well? When it comes to more Qataris choosing to study here, the question is whether it’s the best choice. It’s a personal thing, that’s for sure, but I loved studying in the UK. I made friends with people from all over the world, I learned to be independent, I learned how to manage funds living in an apartment alone and I learned to understand things from different perspectives. Studying abroad gives you experiences that no classroom can provide. It’s both scary and exciting to be in a foreign setting and being immersed in a new cultural environment. I found new challenges and found ways to solve new problems.

It also gave me appreciation for what I have here in Qatar; no tax worries and lower cost of living are two that come to my mind. One popular Qatari group called ‘Qatari & Qatariah’ had questioned the public with “Do you think that Qataris who study abroad are more intelligent or can perform better in the work-place?” It was a mixed bag of answers; some said that intelligence depended on the abilities of the person regardless of where they studied, but most agreed that studying abroad gave them that extra edge and a different way of thinking. I’m proud of the way that Qatar has progressed in the education sector. We’re doing some amazing things. Qatar Foundation and Education City are encouraging people to read, question, and create. That’s exactly the type of social development the nation needs to create a country of the future, whether choosing to study abroad or here in Qatar. One thing’s for sure, it’s great that we now have more choices.

COMMUNITY LISTINGS

ONE OF A KIND Breastfeeding Support Group

Tue 5: Various. Some find it tough, others find it easy ... it’s nice to meet other Moms who are doing the same. Babies and their siblings of any age are welcome. Light refreshments will be served. From 9:30 a.m. For more information visit www.dohamums.com or email events@dohamums.com.

Depression Support Group Wed 6: Various. For those of you who are feeling low and do not know what is wrong, this group will by no means be a cure but it will give you someone to talk to and let you know where to get professional help. From 10:00 a.m. till 12:00 p.m. Locations change monthly so check out the website www.dohamums.com.

Doha Mums Lancôme Skin Diagnostic Event

Thurs 7: Salam, The Gate. Receive a complimentary skin diagnostic session with Lancôme. Arrive by 9:15 a.m. for a 9:30 a.m. start. Morning tea will be provided. For more information visit www.dohamums.com or email events@dohamums.com.

EVERY WEEK Fertility Support Group

Drawing and Painting Workshops

Mondays: Institut Français French School. Explore accurate drawing techniques and get the skills to use tones, textures and colours. The course is in French, the instructor also speaks English. 8:30 a.m. until 10:30 a.m. For more information call 4493- 0268 or visit www.institutfrancais-qatar.com.

Mondays: Hyatt Plaza. Join the Doha Mums in welcoming prospective members to Doha at the Café de Chalet! It is located near the ‘middle entrance’ of Hyatt Plaza, and at the far end of Kiddy Zone (the enclosed toy store ‘kiosk’). Kids are treated to free play on a bouncy castle courtesy of Kiddy Zone. From 9:30 a.m. No RSVP necessary. For more information visit www.dohamums.com or email events@dohamums.com. 58

Thursdays: Various. Join other new moms and moms-to-be to talk all things baby! Doha Mums hosts a coffee meet from 9:30 a.m. until 11:30 a.m. The location varies so check the Doha Mums website for details; www.dohamums.com or email events@dohamums.com.

Doha Mums All Ages Pearl Beach Play Group

Sundays: Al Soudan (near Billboard Intersection). Are you experiencing a challenging fertility journey and need someone to talk to in a similar position? From time to time, guest speakers will be invited along to provide information and be available for Q&A in a more intimate environment than the formality of the consulting room. For more information visit www.fertilityA@dohamums.com.

New Arrivals Coffee

Expectant & New Mums Coffee

Thursdays: Join us at the beach, Tower 31 from 4:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m. You must RSVP in advance as they have to alert security of names of non-residents prior to the playgroup. For more information visit www.dohamums.com or email events@dohamums.com.

Doha Mums Pearl Coffee Break

Wednesdays: The Pearl-Qatar. Calling all Moms on The Pearl for a social catch-up! Make your way over to Haagen-Dazs near Tower 4 from 3:00 p.m. until 4.30 p.m. Colouring books and pencils will be provided for the little ones. For more information visit www.dohamums.com or email events@dohamums.com.

French Grammar Workshop

Saturdays: Institut Français French School. Learn French through games, quizzes and songs. Whether a beginner just starting to learn French, or if you are a bit more advanced, master the finer points of French grammar with confidence. For more information call 4493-0268 or visit www.institutfrancais-qatar.com.

summer

Sealine Beach Resort PO Box 50255 Mesaieed Qatar | Tel +974 4476 5299 Fax +974 447 85298 doh.sea.res@merweb.com

family splash

THIS MONTH'S

TOP PICKS

KIDS CLUB

Ice Cream Carnival

Fri 8: W Doha. Ice cream fanatics, this is your time to savour the most delicious flavours and eat as many as you can. Adult QR 100, children QR 70 (5-11 yrs). First seating 12:00 p.m. till 3:00 p.m. second seating 3:30 p.m. till 6:30 p.m. For more information call 4453-5135.

Rays Reef Fun Time

Tuesdays and Sundays: Royal Plaza. Located on the 2nd floor from 2.30 p.m. on Tuesday and from 4:00 p.m. on Sundays. It’s a fun and clean area with lots of options for your kid(s) to choose from, suitable for different age groups. RSVP is required. For more information visit www.dohamums.com or email events@dohamums.com.

Summer Family Fun Sundays – Wednesdays: Sealine

Beach Resort. With an entrance fee of QR. 50 per adult and free for kids, share in the unbridled excitement as you enjoy the enormous recreational activities available; including kid’s pool, aqua park, games, basketball and tennis court, football and volley ball and unwind in the pool or journey to total tranquility in the unique spa. For more information email doh.sea.marketing@merweb.com.

Ballet Gala Show

Sat 9: Sheraton Doha. June Ballet Gala Show organized by the Sheraton Doha Resort and Convention Hotel and Mrs. Isabelle. Tickets to be sold for adults and kids. For more information call 4485-4556.

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Gondolania Soft Play Area Playgroup

Wednesdays: Villaggio. It’s great for kids of all ages! From 2:30 p.m. till 5:00 p.m. Only QR 15 for as long as you want. Turn right at the entrance and follow it round and you will see some trampolines and an enormous soft play area, that’s where the group will be! For more information visit www.dohamums.com or email events@dohamums.com.

KIDS CLUB LISTINGS

EVERY WEEK Moms & Toddlers at Kempinski Kids Club

Sundays and Wednesdays: Kempinski Residences & Suites, Doha. It’s Moms & Toddlers time together from 3:00 p.m. until 5:00 p.m. QR 60 per child. For more information, call 4405-3308 or email kidsclub.doha@kempinski.com.

Children’s Library

Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays: The American Community School. Explore the world of literature with your kids. The library will be open three days a week and you can come and read, browse, borrow and return books! For more information visit www.dohamums.com.

Arts & Crafts at Kempinski Kids Club

Tuesdays: Kempinski Residences & Suites, Doha. Unveil your child’s creativity in weekly arts and crafts workshops from 3:00 p.m. until 5:00 p.m. Your little one will enjoy a series of activities which are educational and fun at the same time. QR 60 per workshop, per child (ages 4–12). For more information call 4405-3308 or email kidsclub.doha@kempinski.com.

Kids Arabic Reading Group

Saturdays: This reading group is held at Doha Mums Library at ACS. This group is suitable for kids who can read and understand simple sentences in Arabic. From 3:30 p.m. until 4:30 p.m. For more information visit www.dohamums.com or email events@dohamums.com.

Kids Yoga

Saturdays: Yama Yoga Studios. For ages 4-8yrs. QR 45 for kids only and QR 35 for kids who have parents joining the simultaneous 9:30 a.m. vinyasa yoga class. For more information visit www.yamayogastudios.com or call 6617-5802.

DAILY Birthday Parties at Kempinski Kids Club

Daily: All things are possible in the Kempinski Kids Club from winter wonderlands to treasure hunting to face painting and whatever else your heart desires. Customize your very own private party whether it’s for a birthday or any other special occasion, come and celebrate with us. For more information call 4405-3308, email kidsclub.doha@kempinski.com or visit www.kempinski.com.

Make Your Relaxation Fun For Kids!

Daily: Kempinski Residences & Suites, Doha. Designed for your health and wellbeing, get a 60-minute Swedish massage, two full-day passes to PURE Leisure & Wellness Centre and a 30-minute Spa Oceana Hydrotherapy treatment for two. Leave your children (maximum 2 children) at Kempinski Kids Club for four hours of serenity, QR 1,499. For more information call 4405-3307 or email wellness.doha@kempinski.com.

Summer Cool Offer at Kempinski Kids Club

Daily: Kempinski Residences & Suites, Doha. Spending the summer in Doha? There’s no better place for your children away from the heat than the children’s paradise of Kempinski. The Kids Club is offering the ‘Summer Cool Offer’ from May 1 to September 1. Pay for a one- day pass (or monthly membership) and get another (for a sibling) with 50 % discount (ages 4–12). For more information call 4405-3308 or email kidsclub.doha@kempinski.com.

SPECIAL PROMOTION

Alfardan Properties Launches

Innovative E-Concept ‘mydohahome.com’ website facilitates people to browse through all available Alfardan Properties-managed residential and commercial properties in Qatar

lfardan Properties has announced the launch of a new website www.mydohahome.com, an innovative e-concept that facilitates people from anywhere in the world to browse through all the available Alfardan Properties-managed residential and commercial properties in Qatar. The ‘mydohahome.com’ initiative enables those seeking to lease high quality units in any of Alfardan Properties’ developments 64

get a comprehensive overview of the property, especially its main features, amenities and services. Muhiballah Mani, COO, Alfardan Properties, said, “The ‘mydohahome. com’ concept is yet another innovation from Alfardan Properties, in line with our relentless efforts to identify market requirements and respond with appropriate solutions that exceed the

expectations of our target audience. This website is being launched at a time when Qatar is increasingly gaining global attention and is emerging as a major Middle Eastern hub. We believe that this web solution, which features unique residential and commercial real estate options, will benefit people from across the region planning to live and work in Qatar. The concept and object of the website is to facilitate searching for

SPECIAL PROMOTION

The ‘mydohahome.com’ website, which is developed and managed by Alfardan Properties, offers site visitors who register their inquiry, an instant 360-degree solution for their requirement, covering availability of units, specific services and facilities, for both residential and commercial properties of the company.

real-estate options in Doha and to present all those who plan to move to Doha or change their current residences unique luxury options provided by Alfardan and Alfardan Properties.” Visitors to the website can easily screen through the available properties looking for their requirements by just filling out the desired location, unit type, size, facilities, leisure and recreation amenities, etc. to which the selections would be filtered accordingly. A complete property description would then be highlighted

taking the users to the official website or registering them with a leasing agent who would then contact the user immediately. “Over the years, Alfardan Properties has built an excellent reputation for developing high quality, luxurious residential and commercial properties in prime locations across Qatar. The new website will provide all the required information regarding the available properties in a user-friendly format so that the potential tenant can make an informed choice,” he added.

The website will feature units from some of Alfardan Properties’ renowned developments such as Alfardan Towers, a fusion of residential and commercial amenities in a luxurious development; One Porto Arabia, the first property available for lease on The Pearl Qatar; Laguna Beach, the exclusive villa compound in the West Bay Lagoon; Kempinski Residences & Suites, which has been credited for establishing new national benchmarks for luxury residences; the Alfardan Gardens; and the recently opened Al Gassar Resort, owned by RDC and managed by Alfardan Group, the exclusive residential complex that offers high-net worth individuals the opportunity to live in a luxurious waterfront community in Doha.

SPECIAL PROMOTION

Souq Waqif Boutique Hotels opens doors to Arumaila and Musheireb Delivering on its promise, Qatar’s premier hotelier unveils latest luxurious boutique hotels and a prestigious residential property.

rowing its unique set of hotels, Souq Waqif Boutique Hotels has launched Arumaila and Musheireb – two more exquisite, five-star destinations located in the heart of Doha’s historic Souq Waqif. This occasion also marked the inauguration of The Residences, Souq Waqif Boutique Hotels’ luxury residential property inspired by the décor and ambience of traditional Qatari homes. Attended by VIP guests and esteemed media, the ribbon-cutting ceremony was hosted by Nasser Bin Rashid Al-Naimi – Acting General Manager, Private Engineering Office, Abdulla Bin Ali Al Attiyah - Executive Manager, Al Rayyan Project Management, accompanied by senior officials from Souq Waqif Boutique Hotels. “We are thrilled to add Arumaila and Musheireb – each a truly extraordinary project in its own right – to our collection of boutique hotels,” said Al Attiyah. “The Souq Waqif Boutique Hotels brand is built with distinctiveness and eccentricity being at the heart of each and every one of the properties. Arumaila and Musheireb, as well as The Residences, carry this brand identity across all their offerings, ensuring that guests experience every aspect of the brand from the moment they enter the buildings to the moment they leave Souq Waqif Boutique Hotels. We look forward to welcoming guests from Qatar, the Arab region and across the world in the coming months,” he concluded.

SPECIAL PROMOTION

Following the concept of boutique hotels, introduced by Souq Waqif Boutique Hotels to the Middle East, Arumaila and Musheireb are designed to provide guests with a personalized, exclusive experience of the highest standards. Arumaila Boutique Hotel offers a total of 19 rooms â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 17 standard rooms and two suites while Musheireb features 14 rooms â&#x20AC;&#x201C; ten deluxe rooms and four suites. The Residences reflect the same theme, consisting of four three-bedroom and five

one-bedroom residences, offering the most exclusive in contemporary luxury. With its hip and trendy interior, Arumaila Boutique Hotel accommodates a dynamic lifestyle, making it more appealing to the younger segment of society. On the other hand, the Musheireb Boutique Hotel is modeled on the concepts of authentic Qatari hospitality, catering to those looking for an elegant, yet traditional, retreat.

In addition to impressive fine dining restaurants such as the The Canteen and Al Matbakh-Rooftop Grill in Arumaila, and Al Mataam in Musheireb, both boutique hotels are equipped with a full range of state of the art facilities and offer tailored services to fit the needs of all guests. Currently, Al Najada, Al Mirqab, Arumaila, and Musheireb Boutique Hotels are operational, while additional hotels will be revealed to the public in the second quarter of 2012.

THIS MONTH'S

TOP PICKS

Diamond Jubilee Commonwealth Brunch

Fri 1: Ramada Plaza. As HRH Queen Elizabeth II of England begins her 60th year on the throne, celebrate her achievements and devotion to her country in Ruby Wu’s and Bombay Balti. Soak up the atmosphere while watching selected clips from Queen Elizabeth’s reign on the big screen, listen to classic British music while enjoying a toast to the Queen’s health with special British beverages. From 12:00 p.m. till 3:30 p.m. QR 250 per person. For more information call 4428-1555.

FOOD & DINING

Four Region Food Festival

Mon 4: Grand Hyatt Doha. Although popularly considered a single cuisine, Thai cuisine is more accurately described as four regional cuisines corresponding to the four main regions of the country: North, North-East, Central and South. Chef Pawachida and her team have organized a palate journey through Thailand for you to taste special dishes prepared for this occasion at the award-winning Isaan restaurant! Open buffet from QR 280 per person. For more information call 4448-1250 or email isaan.ghdoha@hyatt.com.

Flying Carpet Lunch Promotions:

Sun 3 – Thurs 7: The Torch-Doha Hotel. Fresh from the tandoori oven, you can enjoy chicken, beef or fish tandoori. For more information call 4444-6500 or visit www.thetorchdoha.com.

ASEAN Gala Dinner

Thurs 14: Resident embassies of ASEAN will host the Gala Dinner at Katara Halls on June 14. With ASEAN’s mandate ‘One vision, One identity and One community’ as the tagline for the evening’s events, cultural ambassadors from Qatar and other respective member countries will be gracing the night. For more details on log on to www.aseanqatar.com.

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Teppanyaki Week

Sat 9 – Fri 15: Wyndham Grand Regency Doha. Chopsticks restaurant serving sizzling Teppanyaki with a variety of beef, chicken, seafood and vegetables. Eat as much as you like. Prepared to perfection by the Teppanyaki Chefs. Served as a platter for two, QR 199 and platter for four, QR 399. From 6:30 p.m. till 10:30 p.m. For more information call 4434-3203 or 4434-3333 or email sdesilva@wyndham.com.

SPOTLIGHT ON FOOD & DINING

What’s Cookin’? By Alex Corey Photography by Jessie Palanca

Sizzling Hot Pot restaurant, an associate of Ahmed Hassan Bilal Group is the first of its kind in the Middle East, boasting a unique cooking concept and only the freshest ingredients. QH brings you a step-by-step guide to making the most scrumptious do-it-yourself delicacies at this hot-pot hot-spot.

’ll be the first to admit there’s no shortage of excellent restaurants to patronize here in Doha. But, once you reach a certain level, the variables become more and more finite and the experience is often the same. Though there are many talented chefs tantalizing your senses across the city, the heart of the dining out experience elicits the same reaction. For example: “That steak is so juicy, it satisfies the very deepest of pleasure centers in my brain.” Which is all well and good, but then we tend to go home and forget about what it was we just enjoyed. But what if we could change the dynamic, adding more layers to make it memorable? Well, that’s exactly what Sizzling Hot Pot does: taking the customer’s dining experience to the next level. Most people I know don’t mind cooking. They may hate doing prep work and cleaning up, but they don’t actually mind the cooking part. It emboldens them with a sense of usefulness and more importantly, a sense of accomplishment. There’s a reason why people choose to cook for others for a living; it’s a comforting thing to do and when not being done in a stressfilled way, is an enjoyable experience. Enter Sizzling Hot Pot. Located in Building 7 of the Holiday Villa Hotel, the restaurant is a hidden gem, where diners can share the joys of cooking their own food. This can seem daunting, which is why Chef Khalilah Nor and her team are there to ease any and all apprehension. Chef Khalilah was kind enough to sit down with me one day and walk me through the basics. Here we go!

SPOTLIGHT ON FOOD & DINING For those of us who are ravishing as we set foot through the door, there’s a buffet readily available each day featuring cuisines from different regions of Asia. I can’t tell you what will be there when, but I can tell you it will always be tasty and healthy. There is a large ‘cold’ buffet that provides an impressive array of items to choose from; these will be the building blocks of your meal. There’s salmon, hammour and red snapper, as well as chicken and beef marinated in a multitude of flavours and a veritable garden of fresh veggies. Like a building however, your meal will require a strong foundation and in this instance it will be the broth. The broth is the medium in which all subtle tastes and textures come alive and intermingle, presenting a unique experience for each of your tastebuds. There’s a chicken based broth, a hot and sour based broth and a tom yum broth (these choices can change depending on the day). If you’re worried about cooking at your table, there are ample servers around to help you get set up and show you how it’s done – it’s actually incredibly easy. The server pours your broth into a hot pot, or if you’re using two different types of broth, a steamboat (picture a pot that is separated in the middle). It slowly comes to a boil. Meanwhile, you have selected a fine assortment of meats and vegetables based on your personal preference, or if you are married and wise, your significant other’s preferences. There is a grilling surface also available to utilize, but be

Allow me to simplify the process into a few easy steps:

1. 2.

sure to use only the slightest amounts of oil so as not to overpower the flavour. The secret of the hot pot restaurant idea is that the meat is thinly sliced. This allows it to cook incredibly fast. How fast you ask? Well, I knew you would, so I timed it. It took just under three minutes to cook a piece of beef on the grill. Not bad – any fast food restaurant would be doing well to compete with that (and the quality here is far superior, mind you). However, the same piece of beef took 20 seconds to cook in the broth – 20 seconds! Some The chicken and fish took up to three minutes to cook in the broth, still even faster than on the grill. More importantly they impart flavour into the broth itself, adding a distinct taste to the mixing pot that changes and amplifies as you add more ingredients. While eating freshly cooked vegetables and meats is great, it doesn’t hurt to add some of the rice from the buffet (already prepared!) for a more substantial meal. Oh and the sauces! Chef Khalilah has 20 types of sauces from varying Asian countries. I suggest you try them all. I’m certainly not the world’s best cook (nor my apartment block’s), so I decided I would have a go anyway to see if it was something you could “mess up”. It’s not. I added a few eclectic mixes into the hot pot and it all came out tasting great. Beef, crab and bok choy? Soulful. Chicken, baby corn and shrimp? Delightful! So fear not and be bold in your selections. If you find yourself timid or wanting to impress, I’m sure Chef Khalilah will be more than happy to make some suggestions.

3. 4. 5.

Choose your broth and have the server set up the hot pot for you Choose your selection of fresh vegetables, meats and fish (you can keep going back as often as you like, so a great opportunity to try a variety of new things!) Cook your chicken, fish and meat first ( this can take anywhere from 20 seconds to three minutes) Cook veggies last (cooking time is usually only measured in seconds) Get some rice and some sauces and enjoy!

There is an inherent understanding of how long it will take for something to cook. A thick and dense baby corn will take longer than a leafy piece of lettuce for example. If you are in doubt, just ask for some guidance! So if you’re ready for a fast, fresh and decidedly healthy evening out with friends and family, you’d better steer your way towards Sizzling Hot Pot soon; the added sense of adventure and accomplishment that goes along with your meal is only a bonus. SIZZLING HOT POT FACTS: Timings:

Open 7 days a week 11:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. 6:00 p.m. – Midnight

Dress Code:

Smart casual

Average meal price:

QR 95 – QR 220 for buffet and set meal options

Reservations: Available Telephone: 4411-5225 or 4411-5335

SPOTLIGHT ON FOOD & DINING

Into the Stratasphere By Ashlee Starratt Photography by Jessie Palanca

Sitting like a jewel atop the new InterContinental Doha The City, Strata sparkles with a 360 degree view of West Bay and a menu that pushes the boundaries of molecular gastronomy.

he numbers on the elevator tick by ever faster as we climb higher, ears popping, finally stepping out on the 55th floor of the InterContinental Doha The City and into Strata. Taking up the top two floors of the hotel, the restaurant shimmers in a sleek black décor accented by soft-lit white tones that doesn’t distract from the sprawling backdrop of Doha’s bright lights. You come to devour the view as much as the food. Wrapping itself around a bank of panoramic glass windows, the first floor is an intimate restaurant where diners can test their palates on a conceptually forwardthinking menu of cold seafood delicacies. Climb the winding staircase that showcases the icywhite art-deco chandelier and you’ll reach the lounge area on the 56th floor where you can enjoy some of the most innovative beverages in the city. It’s not every day your drink comes served to you in a goblet smoking with dry ice.

of simple ingredients and flavours using methodologies that are unexpected yet retain the integrity of the dish. In fact, that’s the root of molecular gastronomy– taking something very simple and, by modifying its original structure, texture and composition, presenting it in a way that bends the mind and tantalizes the tongue. For starters we order the smoked lobster cooked at low temperature with green pea mousseline and herb and lemon butter; the slow-cooked lobster with honey vinaigrette and papaya salad with chilies and the saffron vegetable taglietelle with shaved fennel, baby bok choi and asparagus. Each dish arrives looking like a work of art – but not one so pretentious that you can’t dig right in and savour every bite. The smoked lobster is presented on a dish covered with a spiked dome, wisps of liquid smoke curling out. Caught off the coast of Oman the meat melts in our mouths like butter, the smokiness lingering after each bite and the pea mousseline a refreshing palate cleanser between mouthfuls.

“The service at Strata is impeccable..”

As we settle in on the lower level and examine the menu it’s clear what Strata Executive Sous-Chef Nicholas De Visch has his sights set on: a re-imagining

Juxtaposed against the smoked lobster is the slow-cooked version from the Asian side of the menu. The honey vinaigrette complements the natural sweetness of

the meat, nicely off-setting the tang and kick of spice to the papaya salad. The taglietelle is an interesting molecular creation, as thinly sliced vegetables are reformatted and reconstituted into glasslike jelly noodles. It’s light yet substantial and is the perfect accompaniment to the succulent lobster meat. The timing between courses is lengthy but that’s because each dish is prepared fresh and made-to-order; coupled with the complexity of the presentation. It’s worth the wait as diners can truly savour each course with enough time in between to clear their palate for the next. As a gesture our waiter brings us over a chef’s sample off the menu of seared hammour with parsley foam. Plated in the tiny dish the green foam is reminiscent of the sea where much of our dinner hails, yet when we taste the

SPOTLIGHT ON FOOD & DINING crisp, slight bitterness of the parsley as it dissolves we’re immediately brought back to shore, wondering the secret to De Visch’s team’s creation. It’s certainly a much more dynamic concept then poaching a fillet of fish and garnishing it with a sprig of parsley. We try the cured Norway salmon with fresh dill, asparagus espuma and citrus pearl caviar and the Strata assorted sashimi plate for our mains. In both cases the slices of fish are impossibly fresh – no small feat as the temperature gauge continues to rise here in Doha. The Norwegian salmon has a slightly smoky hint and we enjoy it slathered with spoonfuls of the asparagus espuma; a gorgeous, creamy yellow it’s been refashioned so that its texture is, in our opinion, similar to a Hollandaise-style sauce. The citrus pearl ‘caviar’ are small molecular balls of juice that burst in your mouth adding a hint of sour tang to the flavours already at play. It’s incredible and the dish doesn’t last long. The sashimi platter is an assortment of salmon, tuna, hammour, scallop and prawns served with fresh soya sauce, pickled ginger and wasabi. The flavours are right off the boat, the catch so fresh that each juicy slab melts like butter on the bite.

The service at Strata is impeccable; the wait staff, hosts, restaurant and lounge managers are knowledgeable and happy to answer all of our questions regarding the menu. As we finish, the tables around us have filled up without us even noticing, so engrossed in the food, the view and the

company are we. As new restaurants go, when you discover one that’s a gem there’s a tendency to want to keep it inside your inner circle, enjoying the experience with friends and family, making it your own. Word on Strata seems to be spreading fast and though it may already be on top – all 56 floors on top—we foresee its reputation continuing to reach new heights. ABOUT STRATA: Timings: Seven days a week 6 p.m.-11p.m., restaurant 6 p.m. – 2.a.m. lounge Dress Code: Smart Average Meal Price: QR 150 for mains off the Western and Asian menus QR 600 for cold sharing platters Smoking: Yes Licensed: Yes Contact info: 4015-8888 or doharestaurants@ihg.com

SPOTLIGHT ON FOOD & DINING

ummy Y Yuzu

By Ashlee Starratt Photography by Jessie Palanca

Tucked away on the penthouse level of the Swiss-Belhotel, Yuzu offers diners a fresh taste of Asia with spectacular views of downtown Doha.

omething happens when you walk into Yuzu, drinking in its striking black and red décor, openconcept sushi bar and teppanyaki grill, the stress of the day melts off and your stomach begins to growl. The staff welcome us with smiles and direct us to our table; walking through the restaurant the space is small, intimate and impeccably clean. We recommend trying to get a window seat to enjoy the sparkling lights of the old city, Corniche and Museum of Islamic Art in the background.

Specializing in Japanese cuisine the menu at Yuzu is broad, satisfying every end of the spectrum. For starters we order the agedashi tofu, tempura shrimp, calamari and miso soup. They arrive together and we dig in. The agedashi tofu is velvety and smooth, firm chunks of tofu with a crisp exterior nestled in a bowl of mirin broth and the tempura shrimp and calamari are piping hot. Served with a tangy-sweet dashi dipping sauce the shrimp is juicy and the calamari plump and satisfyingly chewy. 74

For mains we order an assortment of sushi and teppanyaki and the options are plentiful. It’s a nice added touch to be able to watch our meal being prepared fresh at the sushi bar, the talented Japanese chefs in their tall white hats slicing, dicing, rolling and plating. We select the Kunsei nigiri – a buttery smoked Scottish salmon wrapped around pickled rice, the tuna tekka maki and the spicy salmon temaki roll – a cone stuffed full with creamy sliced salmon, avocado, cucumber and roe. Each order is a perfect bite-sized explosion of texture and flavour. The chef also prepares a special salmon and avocado salad for us, mixed with shredded cabbage and tossed with the infamous Japanese mayo. From the teppanyaki grill we try the chicken breast and striploin steak. The chicken comes tossed in a sweet and sour glaze and the beef a hearty teriyaki. Both are served with a side of fried rice and the meat is well-cooked yet tender. Yuzu also has an extensive dessert menu

featuring traditional Asian treats like ginger ice cream, tempura ice-cream. We order a honey toffee creation that is part mousse, part ice cream enrobed in a delicate chocolate shell. We leave Yuzu feeling full and with a desire to come back and explore the outer reaches of the menu at this delightful spot where you don’t have to travel far out for the Far East. ABOUT YUZU: Timing: 7:00 p.m. – 11:00 p.m. Sunday to Friday, closed Saturday Average Meal Price: QR 35 - QR 115 for sushi and teppanyaki options Dress Code: Smart casual Smoking: Yes Licensed: Yes Telephone: 4407-8888, Ext. 8989

SPOTLIGHT ON FOOD & DINING

No Professional

Baker By Gerald Tan

Baking isn’t just a science – it’s an art. Throw sugar, flour and butter together; the chemical reaction is almost foolproof. But approach the oven with some whimsical creativity and the results can be sheer magic. Gerald Tan exercises his flour power, showing those of us who are all thumbs in the kitchen how easy it can be.

y love affair with baking began in August 1999. The initial trigger of the tryst was a venerable apple pie. I remember walking into the kitchen and declaring to the family, “I’m attempting a pie for dessert, and I don’t want any help.” No objections there, so to work I went.

Then, a neighbour rang to ask if she could pop over for dessert – eureka. And just like that, I became hooked on pastry. The truth is, baking is nowhere near as daunting as some would claim. Admittedly, there are certain proportions one must adhere to. Too little sugar: the cookie might taste like a sandy brick. One missing egg could spell disaster for a soufflé. And let’s not even get started with baking powder or bicarbonate of soda.

“There are no mistakes in baking..”

After leafing through the tattered household copy of Joy of Cooking, I knew I had it down. Make crust. Prepare filling. Combine. Voila. Just two hours later, the most wondrous scent of butter, cinnamon and caramelizing fruit was wafting out of the kitchen and onto the streets of Capitol Hill. 76

But take heart. The measurements in any respectable recipe would not lead you astray. Friendly advice: follow them to the letter until you’re comfortable enough to

improvise. If you’ve never baked before but always wanted to, I invite you to this simple shortbread bake-off. Give me an hour of your time and surprise yourself by dinner tonight. There are several reasons I recommend this simple treat. Chief among them is the end product, which is nothing less than buttery bliss. Shortbread is unpretentious. Far from exotic, the ingredients should live in most larders, though icing sugar may be a stretch. (You could use regular sugar, but the result is a coarser, less satisfying biscuit) Also, take note of the necessary equipment -- nothing fussy at all. You don’t even need electric beaters, though they greatly expedite the creaming process.

SPOTLIGHT ON FOOD & DINING

Recipe

Sumptuous Shortbread Ingredients: 200gm butter (soft but still cold) ¾ cup powdered/icing/confectioner’s sugar 2 cups flour ½ teaspoon of salt 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Implements: 1 mixing bowl 1 spatula/wooden ladle 1 oven-proof plate/baking tray 1 fork Method: In a mixing bowl, whip your butter mercilessly using a spatula or ladle. Once the block has been smoothly spread over the base, add the vanilla and sugar. Mix together swiftly. This creaming process results in a white, fluffy mixture. Next, add the flour and salt and fully incorporate them until the pastry comes together in a nice ball. Take care to not dilly dally as butter succumbs to the Doha heat. From start to finish, the mixing process takes no more than 10 minutes.

Of course, if you’re looking to invest in gadgets and gizmos, the list is endless. Tavola and Lakeland probably come to the fore as the two shops most likely to stock that silicone muffin tray or lattice doughcutter your cousin insists is vital to Aunt Mildred’s recipe. Specialty ingredients can be tough to track down, but Lulu and Family Food Centre are my default places to look because prices don’t typically teeter between the ridiculous and criminal. So here’s my golden rule of baking. You get out of it what you put in. Should you use margarine in lieu of butter, prepare to snort in disgust. (Margarine is an indispensable stabilizing agent; adding it to cookies or cakes results in a hardier product more able to withstand warmer climates. But using margarine solely to replace butter is sacrilegious). Vanilla extract is the real stuff made from elegant stalks of bean. The QR 2 bottle of flavouring is a chemical solution unworthy of your kitchen cupboard.

If you view baking as a chore, stressing over inane details, all you’ll find waiting is a pedestrian pie at best a burnt brownie at worst. I urge you, instead, to loosen your apron strings; be a bit adventurous; and, above all listen to the butter. There are no mistakes in baking, just stories to share and laugh over. Just recently, I made a chocolate cake so insipid that I broke it up, bound the crumbs with coffee and buttercream, and transformed the lot into mini cake truffles rolled in cocoa. Without exaggerating, the colleagues lapped them up. At its essence, the culinary arts should be fun. As a hobby, it helps me unwind from the pressures of daily living. With opera playing in the background, I tinker with my glistening set of measuring cups and revel in the texture of pastry crumbs between my fingers.

Press the ball into a plate or casserole dish, or flatten into a crude circle on a baking tray. Using a fork, prick holes all over your shortbread, ensuring the tines touch the base. It’s this aeration process that makes shortbread crumbly. Bake in a preheated oven at 180 degrees Celsius for 35-45 minutes, depending on how golden you like your biscuit. Remove from oven and immediately slice the shortbread into wedges of any size. This step is crucial because the pastry becomes more difficult to handle as it cools down. Now resist yourself until the biscuit is completely cooled. I am no professional baker. But I am a passionate one; and in my world, that’s enough to make me a magician with the oven. Go on then: give it a whirl. You’ll know you’re on the right track when the neighbours come a-knocking. Any comments, feedback, tips, Grandma’s not-so-secret recipes gladly welcome. Do share how the shortbread challenge turned out. I’m on Twitter @GeraldoTan. 77

SPOTLIGHT ON FOOD & DINING

Al Mourjan

Food Corner Ashraf A. Raad, chief executive and cuisine concept chef at Al Mourjan, tells us how to make Jambalaya this month. Enjoy!

JAMBALAYA Ingredients 4 boneless chicken breasts, skinned 1 onion 1 celery stalk 2 garlic cloves 3 scallions (spring onions) 2 red bell peppers 2 red chilies

3 tbsp olive oil 1 Âź cups / 250g long grain rice 2 cups / 475ml chicken broth (stock) 1 bay leaf Salt and pepper Âž cup / 150g canned chopped tomatoes 2tbsp chopped fresh cilantro (coriander) leaves Ground cumin

Method Cut the chicken into slices. Chop the onion, celery and garlic. Slice the scallions (spring onions) into rings. Finely slice the red peppers and chilies, discarding the cores and seeds. Heat the oil in a large skillet (frying pan), add the onion, garlic and scallions and fry for 2-3 minutes. Add the chicken and continue to fry for 1-2 minutes. Stir in the celery, red pepper, chilies and rice. Pour in the chicken broth (stock) and add the bay leaf. Season with salt and pepper. Cover the pan and simmer for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. When the rice is cooked, add the tomatoes and cilantro (coriander) leaves. Before serving season to taste with cumin, salt and pepper.

FOOD & DINING LISTINGS

ONE OF A KIND WOW Burger

Fri 1 – Sat 30: Wyndham Grand Regency Doha. WOW burger in Al Kut for only QR 98. Do you have the appetite to take on the largest juicy burger in town? 10:00 a.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4434-3203 or 4434-3333 or email sdesilva@wyndham.com.

Summer Trio at Dunes

Fri 1 – Sat 30: Grand Hyatt Doha. Enjoy the promotion at Dunes. Five beers + sausages, a bottle of vino + fish n chips, a decanter of sangria + cheese platter = QR 150 per person. For more information call 4448-1280 or email dunes.ghdoha@hyatt.com.

Ice Tea Variations

Fri 1 – Sat 30: Marriott Doha. Want to have the perfect way to cool down as we enter the hot summer months? There is no better way than a home-made ice tea with the flavours of their different themed restaurants, Salsa, Asia Live!, Corniche and Pool Terrace. QR 23 per ice tea. For more information call 4429-8422.

Chefs Table

Fri 1 – Sat 30: Grand Hyatt Doha. The Grill restaurant is offering to you an exclusive and new experience. You will taste dishes that the chef is planning to put on the menu in the future. Your opinions on the quality, presentation and variety will be the main “tool” to evaluate the success of what they would like to offer to guests. Be part of The Grill new menu for QR 350, QR 450 or QR 550, including house beverages matching the dishes. For more information call 4448-1240/41or email thegrill.ghdoha@hyatt.com.

Maxim’s Modern British Menu Fri 8 – Fri 29: Ramada Plaza. They continue their “Proud to be British” celebrations with a “Modern British Menu”. Chef Jurgen and his team have created modern takes on classic dishes like Game Terrine with Redcurrant Jelly, Roasted Cornish Hen and of course what can be more British than Summer Pudding with Honey Ice Cream.

Chef’s Table

Mon 11: Ritz-Carlton Doha. All food aficionados are invited into the show kitchen at La Mer, to witness the return of international guest chef Jeremy Steele demonstrating the preparation of their four-course themed dinner. At the end of the evening, each guest will receive a recipe book as a gift to remember. From 7:00 p.m. QR 450 per person. For more information call 4484-8506 or 4484-8360.

The Queen of Teas

Tues 12 – Sun 17: Oryx Rotana. Enjoy a right royal affair in the Sky Lounge, serving a Queen’s Jubilee High Tea from 4:00 p.m. till 7:00 p.m. Celebrate the Diamond Jubilee with a selection of cookies, muffins, mini pastries and fine sandwiches, served in true British style with a hot drink. From QR 95 per person. For more information call 4402-3333.

Moroccan Food Festival

Wed 20 – Sun 24: Sharq Village & Spa. The Moroccan born writer Edmon Amran el Maleh described Moroccan cuisine as “the perfumed soul of our culture”, a unique blend of African, Arabian and European influences. The result: a cuisine characterized by its subtle scents, delicate flavours and elegant presentation. Celebrity Moroccan chef Hassan Bohout offers a delicious selection of regional dishes at Al Liwan, including the famous tajine in all it variations. QR 250 per person. From 6:30 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4425-6666 or email rc.dohsq.reservations@ritzcarlton.com.

EVERY WEEK Grill Night

Sundays: W Doha. Steak connoisseurs and red-meat lovers converge upon Market by Jean-Georges to savor their prize cuts of tender meat, fowl and seafood every Sunday night. Char-grilled or seared, rare or well done: have it your way with your choice of sauce and side dish. From 6:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4453-5135.

Seafood Night

Mondays : Millennium Hotel. Stir, sizzle and sauté at Cosmo, seafood flavours not to be missed! QR 180 per person. From 7:30 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4424-7361 or email fb@mill-doha.com

Asian Night

Mondays: Oryx Rotana. Take a culinary journey around Asia at Choices restaurant. Expert Thai, Indonesian and Philippine chefs prepare an exquisite buffet of authentic Far Eastern cuisine for QR 195 per person, including unlimited juices and soft drinks, or QR 270 per person, including unlimited selected house beverages. For more information call 4402-3333.

Italian Night

Mondays: Mövenpick Hotel Doha. Savour the delicacies of the Italian cuisine, choosing from a wide array of antipasti, live pasta station, pizzas and Italian cheeses. Get a feel of ‘La Dolce Vita’ for QR 160 per person. From 6:30 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4429-1111 or visit www.möevenpick-doha.com.

Meat the Grills

Mondays and Tuesdays: InterContinental Doha. Eat as much as souvlaki BBQ as you can by the outdoor terrace! Enjoy an open buffet with fresh cold mezzedes and salads, complemented by desserts. From 6:30 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. QR 165 per person. For reservations call 4484-4074 or 4484-4444 or email mykonos@icdoha.com.

Sushi Mania

Mondays and Wednesdays: Sharq Village & Spa. Tantalize your taste buds with these little bite-sized morsels of culinary perfection at Al Dana. Fingersized pieces of fish and shellfish are wrapped around soft sushi rice with a hint of wasabi mustard. QR 135. From 6:30 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4425-6666 or email rc.dohsq.reservations@ritzcarlton.com.

FOOD & DINING LISTINGS

International Buffet

Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays: Wyndham Grand Regency Doha. The scrumptious buffet at Grand Gourmet offers different cuisines from around the world, such as Italian cuisine Saturdays, Far Eastern cuisine Mondays, Seafood Wednesdays and Arabian cuisine on Fridays. Breakfast from 6:30 a.m. till 10:30 a.m., lunch from 12:30 p.m. till 3:30 p.m. and dinner from 6:30 p.m. till 10:30 p.m. The special Friday family brunch is served between 11:30 a.m. till 3:30 p.m. For more information call 4434-3203 or 4434-3333 or email sdesilva@wyndham.com.

Ipanema Brazilian Churrascaria Live Band

Monday’s – Saturdays: The West End at the Renaissance Doha City Center Hotel. Set your senses on fire with 15 variations of sizzling meats and seafood on skewers, carved at your table by Passadores. It’s a blaze of colours and flavours with an enticing range of foods. From QR 290 per person. From 6:30 p.m. till 11:30 p.m. For more information call 4419-6100 or visit www.westenddoha.com.

Tapas Galore

Tuesdays: Oryx Rotana. For tapas lovers, this unlimited night is for you to indulge in. Enjoy a selection of tantalizing tapas with three glasses of vino for only QR 220 per person. For more information call 4402-3333.

Swiss Night

Tuesdays: Mövenpick Hotel Doha. Traditional fondue and raclette made with authentic Swiss cheese blended with a variety of tastes and flavours complement a great dining experience. QR 160 per person. From 6:30 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4429-1111 or visit www.möevenpick-doha.com.

Picasso’s Raclette Night

Tuesdays: Ramada Plaza. Enjoy the flavours of Raclette Cheese as it slowly melts over warm potatoes, cold cuts and pickles. Book your table now to enjoy the Raclette Buffet for just QR 50 per person! For more information call 4428-1555.

Countdown to Euro 2012 Watch Euro 2012 football fixtures in alfresco surroundings at Al Nafourah Garden this summer, and follow your nation all the way through the sporting extravaganza in their quest for glory. Will England be able to win their first major competition since 1966? Or will Spain continue their European domination? You can see every kick; goal and penalty live on the big screen, showing all scheduled matches from June 8 to July 1. Whichever European team you support, you can expect a warm welcome and a great selection of food and drinks, with a minimum charge of 150 QAR per person. And from the quarterfinals onward, we will be serving special country-themed menus for each game – with 50% off for supporters of the winning team! For reservations or more information, please contact Tel: +974 4402 3333 or email to oryx.hotel@rotana.com

P.O. Box 29922, Doha, Qatar, T: +974 4402 3333, F: +974 4402 3300, oryx.hotel@rotana.com

rotana.com

FOOD & DINING LISTINGS

Steak Night

Tuesdays: Oryx Rotana. Choose your meat cuts and size and enjoy all the meat you can! QR 210 per person with soft drinks and juices and QR 290 per person with selected house beverages. For more information call 4402-3333.

New Menu In New York Steakhouse

Tuesday - Sunday: The West End at the Renaissance Doha City Center Hotel. New York Steakhouse introduces its new a la carte menu, available from 6:30 p.m. till 11:30 p.m., closed on Mondays. For more information call 4419-6100 or visit www.westenddoha.com.

Maki Delight

Tuesdays: Grand Heritage Doha. Chef Victor creates a special menu with an extensive variety of Maki rolls and traditional miso soup included as a starter at this elegant dining destination. Scintillating the senses from its tasteful décor to the exquisite menu, Blue offers a choice between dining indoors or alfresco on the terrace with sweeping views of the Aspire Dome. QR 160 per person. From 7:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4445-5555.

Tomahawk Comes To Qatar

A Taste of Spain

Wednesdays: Oryx Rotana. Experience all the sounds, flavours, and atmosphere of a real Spanish bar, right here in Doha. Sangria Night at The Cellar, with traditional sangria and mouth-watering authentic tapas – the perfect ingredients for a fun, lively night out. Get into the spirit with unlimited Sangria and one tapas dish for QR 180 per person. For more information call 4402-3333.

Brazilian Churrasco Barbeque

Fantastique Fondues @ Cocottes At Brasserie Centre-Ville

Wednesdays – Mondays: The West End at the Renaissance Doha City Center Hotel. Enjoy Parisian panache with authentic French delicacies including oysters, cocottes and fondues with a wide selection of fine beverages by the glass from 6:30 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4419-6100 or visit www.westenddoha.com.

Asian Night

Cool Summer

Wednesdays: Mövenpick Hotel Doha. Take a culinary tour of Asia and discover mouthwatering Peking duck, Mongolian barbeque, Japanese sushi and Indian curry for QR 160 per person. From 6:30 p.m. to 11.00 p.m. For more information call 4429-1111 or visit www.möevenpick-doha.com.

Indian Flavours

Wednesdays: Oryx Rotana. Savour an aromatic feast and indulge your senses with authentic Indian flavours for QR 185 per person, including unlimited juices and soft drinks, or, for QR 270 per person, include unlimited selected house beverages. From 7:00 p.m. till 11:30 p.m. For more information call 4402-3333.

Asian Night

Wednesdays: Mövenpick Tower & Suites. Take a journey to India with over ten varieties of curry from spicy Bombay Biryani to the coconutsweet Kolkata Khurma. A delectable mixture of meat, seafood and vegetarian dishes infused with rich spices by our expert chefs. The true curry lovers unite at Animato to pay homage to portion value and price. QR 115 per person. Reservations are essential. Take advantage of the MTS Membership card to receive a 15% discount for the whole table. Free membership with every reservation (conditions apply). For more information call 4496-6600 or visit www.moevenpick-doha-tower.com.

Wednesdays: The Torch Doha. Fresh Omani lobster at Three Sixty. You can have it prepared as per your choice of Thermador, grilled or Italian style. For more information call 4444-5600 or visit www.thetorchdoha.com.

Wednesdays: Sheraton Doha. Try Chef Water’s menu at Latino: a starter and four or seven cuts of meat charcoal-grilled on the Churrasco grill with South American side dishes and dessert from QR 150. Accompanied by Latino songs performed by Columbian Band ‘Francachela Trio’. Happy Hour everyday from 6:00 p.m. till 8:00 p.m. For more information call 4485-4556.

Tuesdays - Sundays: The West End at the Renaissance Doha City Center Hotel. Definitely talk of town; 1000 grams of Australian Wagyu beef, exclusive at the New York Steakhouse. Open from 6:30 p.m. till 11:30 p.m. Closed on Mondays. For more information call 4419-6100.

Wednesdays: Millennium Hotel. Travel to the Asian world and savour true flavours from India, China, Vietnam and Japan in an exotic setting. QR 150 per person. From 7:30 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4424-7361 or email fb@mill-doha.com.

Three Sixty @ 47th Revolving Floor

Curry Night

DAILY Daily: Grand Heritage Doha. With the changes of the season, the Victoria Tea Lounge will indulge you in a variety of cold beverages to cool you down. Beat the heat with these cool summer drinks, from iced teas to creative twists on classic lemonade. For more information call 4445-5555 or email fbcoordinator@grandheritagedoha.com.

Nusantao: Sea Kitchens

Daily: Four Seasons, Doha. Nusantao presents authentic pan-Asian dishes prepared by a multicultural culinary team hailing from Indonesia, Thailand, India, China and Japan with Japanese Chef de Cuisine Toshikazu Kato leading the team. Whatever the menu, dining is pure theatre with delicacies prepared in full view of guests. There’s a sushi bar, tandoor ovens, satay grills, tawa griddles, dumpling steamers and a gorgeous terrace. For more information call 4494-8601.

Traiteur Daily Specials

Daily: La Cigale. Enjoy a healthy lunch with La Cigale daily specials available for outside orders. The lunch box contains a fresh salad, delectable main dish, homemade dessert and one soft drink. Choose your main dish from different selections. Daily specials from QR 65. For more information call 4428-8803/20.

FOOD & DINING LISTINGS

Book a Table Online and Get 10% Discount

Daily: The West End at the Renaissance Doha City Center Hotel. Now there’s an easy way to make your table booking in one of our restaurants 24/7. Book a table online and get 10% discount on food and soft beverages this month of June. Log on to www.westenddoha.com or call 4419-6100.

Il Teatro Italian Fine Dining Restaurant

Daily: Four Seasons Doha. Offers guests a gastronomic journey with sublime authentic Italian cuisine created by Chef Matteo Arvonio and his brigade of Italian chefs. Chef Matteo offers his diners an eclectic presentation of refined regional Italian cuisine with a contemporary twist. For special occasions, guests can enjoy their privacy at Il Teatro’s elegant exclusive dining room. Dinner starts from 7:00 p.m. till 11:30 p.m. For more information call 4494-8888.

Theme Nights at Flying Carpet

Daily: The Torch-Doha Hotel. Enjoy international cuisine with a twist: Sunday is Mediterranean night, Monday is Barbecue night, Tuesday is Curry Mania, Wednesday is Pan-Latino night, Thursday is Seafood Delight, Friday is Arabian night and Saturday awaits you with Asian treasures. QR 190 per person. From 7:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4446- 6500 or visit www.thetorchdoha.com.

New A la Carte Dinner Menu In Aroma

Daily: Kempinski Residences & Suites Doha. Check out the new delicious dinner à la carte menu. Enjoy exceptional quality from the creative team of Executive Chef Jonathan Spiteri in the stylish ambience of Aroma. 7:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4405-3325 or email aroma. doha@kempinski.com or visit the website www.kempinski.com/doha.

Market Tasting Menu

Daily: W Doha. Savour the chef’s favourite - a five-course set menu featuring the most delightful and mouth-watering dishes! From 7:00 p.m. till 10:00 p.m. QR 280 per person. For more information call 4453-5135.

Spice Market Tasting Menu

Toasty Treat & Bonus Card

Daily: W Doha. Enjoy a delectable Spice Market tasting menu created by Spice Market Head Chef Darsin Joseph. Five courses with ten mouthwatering flavours and a bottle of your choice for QR 500 for two people (conditions apply). From 6:00 p.m. till 11:30 p.m. For more information call 4453-5135.

Daily: Kempinski Residences & Suites, Doha. Buy the famous German bread at half price, everyday between 7:00 p.m. and 9:00 p.m...if there’s any left! Also for every eight loaves, receive one for free. From 7:00 a.m. till 9:00 p.m. For more information call 4405-3326 or email gourmet.doha@kempinski.com.

Make-Your-Own Sandwich Online @ www.westenddoha.com

Freezing Gourmet House

Daily: West End, Renaissance Doha City Center. Quick Bites lets you choose your bread, spreads, garnish and more healthy and mouth-watering choices of fillers. For more information call 4419-6100 or visit www.westenddoha.com.

Bread of the Day

Daily: West End, Renaissance Doha City Center. The Master Baker at Quick Bites ensures fresh and new breads at all times. Try his special creations: cinnamon bread, bread with raisins, walnuts. From 6:00 a.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4419-6100 or visit www.westenddoha.com.

Al Hubara Restaurant

Daily: Sheraton Doha. A mix of delights at the International lunch buffet starting at QR 175. From 12:00 p.m. till 3:00 p.m. Theme Nights dinner buffets include Monday Thai Night, Tuesday European Night, Friday International Flair, Saturday Al Sham Night, Sunday Italian Pasta. QR 190 per person. Wednesdays and Thursdays, Seafood Extravaganza from QR 235. From 7:00 p.m. till 10:30 p.m. For more information call 4485-4556.

New Summer Menu at Mykonos

Daily: InterContinental Doha. Reveal the ‘Greek’ in you while enjoying the famous Bouzouki duo live and new Chef Konstantinos Panou’s Mediterranean specialties. Open from 12:00 p.m. till 11:30 p.m. Live entertainment from 7:30 p.m. till 11:00 p.m., except Saturdays. For more information call 4484-4444 or 4484-4747.

Daily: Kempinski Residences & Suites, Doha. Summer is here but in Gourmet House we keep the temperature down! Try the new Freddo Espresso and our homemade selection of ice-creams and sorbets. It’s freezing in here! From 7:00 a.m. till 9:00 p.m. For more information call 4405-3326 or email gourmet.doha@kempinski.com.

Tasting & Sharing at The Lounge

Daily: Kempinski Residences & Suites, Doha. Relax after work and share delicious bites from the Tasting & Sharing menu with your friends. Between 5:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. get a 50% discount at the Very Happy Hour. For more information call 4405-3325 or email thelounge.doha@kempinski.com.

Free WIFI @ Quick Bites – Now Open at 6:00 a.m.

Daily: The West End at the Renaissance Doha City Center Hotel. Enjoy free internet access in Quick Bites while having a coffee, light snack or full meal. It’s a spacious and fresh café with free valet parking. Open from 6:00 a.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4419-6100 or visit www.westenddoha.com.

Quick Bites Lunch Box

Daily: The West End at the Renaissance Doha City Center Hotel. Looking for a healthy take-away lunch? Your ultimate solution is the Quick Bites Lunch Box. It consists of a healthy salad, a choice of sandwich, dessert, chips and a soft drink for QR 60, available from 11:00 a.m. till 3:00 p.m. For more information call 4419-6100 or visit www.westenddoha.com.

FOOD & DINING LISTINGS

The Courtyard, Al Najada Boutique Hotel Daily: Souq Waqif. An informal hip and funky café, serving a relaxed breakfast and light meals alfresco, as well as offering a fresh alternative all-day dining menu with unique and innovative à la carte selections of fusion cuisine. Surrounded by palm trees, water features and contemporary Qatari art, an ideal dining venue for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. 7:00 a.m. till 10:00 p.m. (Last order is taken at 10:00 p.m.).

Special Italian Cusine

Daily: La Cigale. Celebrate Italian flair at Di Capri with the exuberant A La Carte menu and a wide selection of wines. The menu features a variety of signature dishes including fresh traditional pastas, classic and mixed risottos, fish and meat opulent platters. Don’t forget the ‘Dolce E Gelato’ desserts section. From 12:00 p.m. till 3:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. till 11:30 p.m. For more information call 4428-8698.

The Canteen, Arumaila Boutique Hotel

Daily: Souq Waqif. Offers comfort food at its best! Guests can relax and enjoy a wide range of dishes including pasta, noodles, fish and chips and traditional Arabic dishes in the distinctively energetic surroundings of Souq Waqif. 7:00 a.m. till 10:00 p.m. (Last order is taken at 10:00 p.m.).

Yen Sushi Bar

Daily: La Cigale. Enjoy Doha’s best sushi and sashimi at this intimate sushi bar, served on a special rotating belt amidst alluring mood lighting, rice paper walls, and fashionable furniture by acclaimed designer Philip Stark. 11:30 a.m. till 12:00 a.m. For more information call 4428-8698.

Kafe Ole

Daily: Holiday Villa Doha. Sip and relax at the newly opened café serving freshly brewed coffee and oven baked pastries. From 11:00 a.m. till 1:00 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. till 3:00 a.m. on Thursdays and Fridays. For more information call 4408-4888.

The Terrace Lounge, Al Mirqab Boutique Hotel

Daily: Souq Waqif. Comprised of indoor and outdoor lounges, including a terrace area, serving light bites such as tempting sandwiches, pastries and Arabic sweets. 7:00 a.m. till 10:00 p.m. (Last order is taken at 10:00 p.m.).

Le Central

Daily: La Cigale. Don’t miss the tantalizing Mediterranean specialties and the wide selection of seafood items complemented by the extended beverage selection during the whole month of June. From 12:00 p.m. till 3:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. till 11:30 p.m. For more information call 4428-8772.

East, Al Mirqab Boutique Hotel Daily: Souq Waqif. Offers international fusion of Mediterranean, Arabic and Japanese cuisine with a Persian twist. This all-day dining restaurant provides the perfect venue for a business lunch or relaxing dinner. The à la carte menu is perfectly created to satisfy every taste. 7:00 a.m. till 10:00 p.m. (Last order is taken at 10:00 p.m.).

Traiteur Specials To Go

Daily: La Cigale. Enjoy a healthy lunch with daily specials available for outside orders. The lunch box contains a fresh salad, delectable main dish, home-made dessert and one soft drink. Choose your main dish from different selections such as poultry, meat or seafood. Daily special price starts from QR 65. For more information call 4428-8803/20.

Lobby Lounge

Daily: Holiday Villa Doha. Mocca cheese cake and coffee QR 25. From 11:00 a.m. till 11:00 p.m. Beverages of the month – Frappe Latte, Ice Blended Crowned Mocha, Ice Blended Cinnamon Coffee, Ice Blended Rich Chocolate – all QR 18. For more information call 4408-4888/4220.

New Menu In La Cucina

Daily: The West End at the Renaissance Doha City Center Hotel. Cucina introduces its new a la carte menu, available from 12:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. daily. For more information call 4419-6100 or visit www.westenddoha.com. 84

Japanese Summer Dishes Daily: Holiday Villa Doha. During the summer heat enjoy a yummy Bento Box. Choose from salmon sashimi, wanko soba, nigiri sushi and much more. From 11:30 a.m. till 3:00 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4408-4888.

WEEKEND THURSDAY Seafood Delight

Thursdays: Oryx Rotana. Experience the bounty of the sea at Choices. From lobster, prawns and shrimps to freshly shucked oysters on the half-shell, enjoy unlimited seafood offerings for just QR 240 per person, including unlimited juices and soft drinks, or QR 315, including unlimited selected house beverages. Shisha is available on the pool terrace. For more information call 4402-3333.

Seafood Night

Thursdays: Mövenpick Hotel Doha. A sumptuous buffet with a spectacular spread of tasty seafood bites bringing together Asian and Mediterranean combinations for a colourful collection of delicious food. QR 180 per person, from 6:30 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4429-1111 or visit www.moevenpick-doha.com.

Cosmopolitan Thursdays at The Square Thursdays: InterContinental Doha The City. The Square’s lively format and diverse menu choices are perfect for an evening seating at an international dinner with friends. QR 290 per person, including house vinos and house spirits. QR 210 including soft drinks and mocktails. From 6:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4015-8888 or email doharestaurants@ihg.com.

Seafood Night at Crossroads Kitchen

Thursdays: The West End at the Renaissance Doha City Center Hotel. Enjoy a vast array of fresh seafood including sushi, chilled shellfish, fresh salads and hot and cold dishes prepared at live cooking theatres. From QR 225 including soft beverages. From 6:00 p.m. till 11:30 p.m. For more information call 4419-6100 or visit www.westenddoha.com.

FOOD & DINING LISTINGS

Barbecue at the Admirals Terrace

Thursdays and Fridays: Ritz-Carlton Doha. By the turquoise waters of the Gulf enjoy a mixed grill selection from the live barbecue station. From 6:00 p.m. till 10:00 p.m. QR 195 per platter, serves two persons. For more information call 4484-8000.

Bomba’s Grill Specialty

Thursdays to Saturdays: Sealine Beach Resort. Enjoy an array of snacks and beverages from the newly opened Bomba’s Grill. These include Bomba’s burger, fish and chips, banana split, ice latte and many more. From 8:00 a.m. till 8:00 p.m. For more information email doh.sea.marketing@merweb.com.

FRIDAY Breakfast Feast on Friday

Fridays: Ritz-Carlton Doha. Breakfast is the most important meal of the day and there is no better way to enjoy it than at Admiral’s Club while sitting on the terrace surrounded by the serene views of the marina. From 10:00 a.m. till 12:00 p.m. QR 110 including coffee, tea, and fresh juices. For more information call 4484-8000.

Steak Night

Fridays: Mövenpick Hotel Doha. Choose your favourite steak cuts from the display of prime quality meats and fish and have them cooked to perfection for QR 160 per person. From 6:30 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4429-1111 or visit www.moevenpick-doha.com.

Seafood BBQ Night

Fridays: InterContinental Doha. Enjoy a Seafood BBQ dinner by the beachfront at the Fish Market. Enjoy grilled fish and seafood freshly prepared by our expert Chefs including live cooking stations. From 7:00 p.m. till midnight. For more information please call 4484-4444 or 4484-4747.

FOOD & DINING LISTINGS

Persian Family Lunch

Fridays and Saturdays: Sharq Village & Spa. Parisa’s weekend family-style set menu has plenty of popular options to suit everyone. Chef Moghadam Najjari delights with regional specialties, classic dishes showcasing the very best of Persian cooking. QR 195 per person. From 12:00 p.m. till 3:00 p.m. (Closed 15 June – 15 July). For more information call 4425-6666 or email rc.dohsq.reservations@ritzcarlton.com.

SATURDAY Burger Night

Saturdays: W Doha. Market is grilling up a good time. The tastiest burgers made just the way you like them. Choose your burger, side dish and a dessert for QR 110. From 6:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4453-5135.

Retail Night

Saturdays: Oryx Rotana. Enjoy the Tapas menu and your favourite vino at retail price at the Cellar. Handling fee QR 50, or on Saturdays QR 100. For more information call 4402-3333.

Sushi Fiesta

Saturdays: Wyndham Grand Regency Doha. Immerse yourself in an electrical range of original and sensational sushi platters from the sushi bar at Chopsticks, the award-winning best restaurant. Eat as much you can for QR 129 per person, including a glass of sparkling date juice. Saturdays from 6:30 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4434-3203 or 4434-3333 or email sdesilva@wyndham.com.

Sushi Night

Saturdays: W Doha. Add some flavour to the start of the week with Spice Market’s comprehensive sushi menu featuring assorted sushi, nigiri, maki and sashimi prepared with the secret condiments of three-Michelin star chef, Jean-Georges Vongerichten and his expert team. From 6:00 p.m. till 10:00 p.m. QR 220 per person. For more information call 4453-5135.

Admiral’s Saturday Roast

Saturdays: Ritz-Carlton Doha. Enjoy the perfect hand-carved Saturday roast, a selection of roast meats, with roast potatoes, Yorkshire pudding and all the trimmings cooked to perfection! From 4:00 p.m. till 10:00 p.m. QR 120 per person. For more information call 4484-8000. 86

Lebanese Breakfast

Saturdays: Millennium Hotel. Enjoy authentic Lebanese flavours, decoration and tunes and live stations serving healthy food to kick off the day. QR 120 per person. From 6:30 a.m. till 10:30 a.m. For more information call 4424-7361 or email fb@mill-doha.com.

Sushi and Steak Night @ Blue

Saturdays: Grand Heritage Doha. Enjoy dinner under the stars with unlimited sushi prepared by our Chef Victor, followed by succulent barbequed steak cooked to your liking, served with your favourite vegetables and selection of dessert for the perfect ending, QR 195 per person. From 7:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4445-5555.

Ready, Set, Chopsticks!

Saturdays: Oryx Rotana. Three words sum up the food at the Sushi & Sashimi Night at Choices during June – fresh, simple, delicious. From June 16, the talented team of chefs serves up the perfect Japanese dining experience, with food that is a feast for the eye as well as the mouth. QR 195 per person (food only). For more information call 4402-3333.

International Lunch Buffet at Crossroads Kitchen Saturdays - Thursdays: The West End at the Renaissance Doha City Center Hotel. Crossroads Kitchen is offering a fresh international buffet for only QR 155 per person from 12:00 p.m. till 2:30 p.m. For more information call 4419-6100 or visit www.westenddoha.com.

BRUNCH Flying Carpet Brunch

Fridays: The Torch-Doha Hotel. A trendy and fabulous Friday Brunch with an array of specialties from the Mediterranean, Asia, Latin America and the Middle East. Children’s buffet and activities with a very special price for children between 6 and 12 years at QR 99. For more information call 4444-6500 or visit www.thetorchdoha.com.

Crossroads Kitchen Family Brunch

Fridays: West End, Renaissance Doha City Center. Crossroads Kitchen offers a fantastic International brunch including a children’s buffet and entertainment zone with face painting, movies and games. From QR 215. 12:00 p.m. till 3:00 p.m. For more information call 4419-6100 or visit www.westenddoha.com.

Ipanema Friday Brunch

Fridays: The West End at the Renaissance Doha City Center Hotel. By popular request, Ipanema opens its doors for Friday Brunch with 15 variations of sizzling meats on skewers, carved at your table by Passadores with live entertainment. Enjoy the experience from QR 330 per person. From 12:00 p.m. till 3:30 p.m. For more information call 4419-5000 or visit www.westenddoha.com.

X’Press Friday

Fridays: Oryx Rotana. The weekend starts here; you’re invited to sit back, relax and enjoy the exquisite three-course set menu, including a wide choice of appetizers, main courses and desserts. Chefs have created exceptional international dishes with quality seasonal produce – the choice is all yours. Choose either the set menu with two glasses of selected vino for QR 145, or food only for QR 85. There are also tempting tasting offers on a wide range of vinos, using the state-of-the-art Enomatic vino serving system. From 12:00 p.m. till 4:00 p.m. For more information call 4402-3333.

Cosmo Brunch

Fridays: Millennium Hotel. International and Oriental cuisines are served in a casual ambiance, with a special kids corner and entertainment. QR 155 per person. From 12:30 p.m. till 4:00 p.m. For more information call 4424-7361 or email fb@mill-doha.com.

Dim Sum Brunch

Fridays: Holiday Villa Doha. All you can eat dim sum and sushi. Enjoy this splendid spread of Chinese and Japanese delicacies, including steamed or fried dumplings, spring rolls, steamed buns and sushi served with free-flowing Chinese tea. From 11:30 a.m. till 3:00 p.m. QR 130 per adult and QR 75 per child. For more information call 4408-4230.

FOOD & DINING LISTINGS

Hyde Park Brunch

Fridays: Ramada Plaza. Start the weekend right and enjoy a very special Friday brunch. Let the team of chefs tempt you with fresh seafood, sushi, Chinese, Indian and European specialties. For more information call 4428-1555.

Friday Family Brunch

Fridays: Ritz-Carlton Doha. Unwind with friends and family at The Lagoon Restaurant and indulge in a luxurious buffet, live musical performances and a lively, yet relaxed, atmosphere. Complimentary Ritz-Kids Corner available for children aged 4-12 years old. From 12:00 p.m. till 4:00 p.m. QR 220 per person, QR 295 with bubbly and QR 110 for children from 4-12 years old. For more information call 4484-8000.

Market Brunch

Fridays: W Doha. Watch fresh, local products and ingredients come together splendidly in the Mediterranean-inspired show kitchen. The brunch serves international and Mediterranean cuisine. QR 320 per person including specialty drinks, QR 280 including soft drinks. From 12:00 p.m. till 4:00 p.m. For more information call 4453-5135.

Brunch at Nusantao: Sea Kitchens

Fridays: Four Seasons Doha. The highly anticipated theatrical dining destination that’s set to redefine Qatar’s contemporary restaurant offering is now open! From 12:00 p.m. till 4:00 p.m. For more information call 4494-8888.

Jazzy Friday Brunch

Fridays: Oryx Rotana. The brunch offers a wide variety of food and beverages with live jazz music. QR 240 per person, including unlimited juices and soft drinks, or QR 315 per person, including unlimited selected house beverages. From 12:30 p.m. till 4:00 p.m. For more information call 4402-3333.

Street Food Brunch

Fridays: W Doha. Asian street food meets slick city-chic at the weekly Spice Market Brunch, with a backdrop of live upbeat swing music courtesy of Doha Jazz. QR 320 per person including drinks; QR 280 per person without adult beverages. From 12:00 p.m. till 4:00 p.m. For more information call 4453-5135. 88

Family Friday Brunch

Fridays: Mövenpick Hotel Doha. Experience the all-new brunch showcasing an array of innovative culinary delights. In collaboration with Jarir Bookstore, the little ones have their own play kingdom with live entertainment, a bouncy castle, PlayStation, games and even a kiddy-sized buffet. QR 215 per person, kids under 12 dine free, and kids ages 12-16 it’s half price. For more information call 4429-1111 or visit www.moevenpick-doha.com.

Seafood Brunch at Fish Market

Fridays: InterContinental Doha. Indulge in the luxurious buffet and a market display featuring lobster, oyster, tiger prawns, and sea bass. Choose from the wide range of beverage options to complement your meal while enjoying the stunning views of the Arabian Sea and Doha’s skyline. QR 320 per person. From 12:30 p.m. till 3:30 p.m. For more information call 4484-4484 or 4484-4954.

Yum Cha Thai Style Brunch at Isaan

Fridays: Grand Hyatt Doha. The restaurant’s open show kitchens are set in a captivating scene with authentic steam, along with grill and wok preparations served at an ‘all-you-can-eat’ lunch. And now introducing Yum Cha from creative Chef Pachwida – steaming Dim Sums brought fresh to your table. From 12:30 p.m. till 4:00 p.m. QR 250 per person, including soft drinks, QR 395 per person, including selected house beverages, QR 680 per person, including bubbly. For more information call 4448-1250.

The Grill Brunch

Fridays: Grand Hyatt Doha. It is one of the most lavish brunches in the city, with all manner of meats, seafoods and shellfish on offer plus a decadent array of delicious desserts, chocolate fountains and the like. Dine inside in spacious comfort or al fresco in the Grand Hyatt’s lush tropical gardens. Music courtesy of Rocca resident DJ Mark Bambach. From 12:30 p.m. till 4:00 p.m. QR 250 per person, including soft drinks and QR 395 including unlimited selected house beverages. For more information call 4448-1240.

The Café Restaurant Brunch

Fridays: InterContinental Doha. This international buffet restaurant with spectacular views of the pool and sea offers cuisine from around the world with live cooking stations. From 12:30 p.m till 4:00 p.m. QR 195 per person with free-flowing bubbly. (Also, open daily for breakfast from 6:30 a.m. till 11:00 a.m., lunch 12:30 p.m. till 3:30 p.m. and dinner 7:00 p.m. till 11:30 p.m.) For more information call 4484-4484 or 4484-4954.

Le Cigalon Brunch

Fridays: La Cigale. This spring Le Cigalon offers an extended international buffet lunch overlooking an open kitchen area. From 12:00 p.m. till 4:00 p.m. Price per person QR 200, including American coffee or tea; a la carte option is also available. Also enjoy this buffet at the intimate Di Capri. For more information call 4428-8698.

Friday Family Lunch in Aroma

Fridays: Kempinski Residences & Suites, Doha. A team of chefs bring the buffet to your table. Culinary delights from the fourcourse menu are there for you to taste and share with your family and friends. QR 180 per person. From 12:00 p.m. till 3:00 p.m. For more information call 4405-3325 or email aroma.doha@kempinski.com.

Brunch at The Square

Fridays: InterContinental Doha The City. With four interactive cooking stations and an emphasis on fresh, compelling menu options with Asian, Arabic, and European influences, guests can choose from a tempting international buffet. QR 320 per person, including house vinos, house spirits and sparkling vino. QR 210 including soft drinks and mocktails. From 12:00 p.m. till 4:00 p.m. For more information call 4015-8888 or email doharestaurants@ihg.com.

Weekend Brunch

Fridays: Sharq Village & Spa. Tuck into a magnificent buffet in Al Liwan, with cooking stations and a carvery. There’s live entertainment and lots to amuse the little ones. QR 250 per person, half price for kids under 12 and free for children under six. From 12:30 p.m. till 4:00 p.m. For more information call 4425-6666 or email rc.dohsq.reservations@ritzcarlton.com.

FOOD & DINING LISTINGS

Weekend Family Brunch

Fridays and Saturdays: MĂśvenpick Tower and Suites. Enjoy the sumptuous array of international cuisine including fresh seafood, carved meats and Arabic delights. A special childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s area offers their favourite food, along with Playstation, movies and games. Brunch is from 12:00 p.m. till 4:00 p.m. Complimentary access to the pool for children and Moms from 12:00 p.m. till 4:00 p.m. QR 199 per person, inclusive of all beverages. Children from 6 to 12 years of age eat at halfprice and those under six are free. For more information call 4496-6600.

Gallery Brunch

Fridays and Saturdays: Marriott Doha. Embark on a culinary journey and discover an array of live stations and specialties from the Restaurant Gallery, featuring favourites such as sushi, Peking duck, fajitas, Oriental grills, pizza, curries, biryanis, fresh seafood, ice cream, kounafa and more. The kids club offers a special buffet and entertainment. From 12:00 p.m. till 3:00 p.m. QR 235 per person and QR 340 including bubbly. For more information call 4429-8499 or email dinemarriottdoha@marriott.com.

Oriental Seafood Lunch

Saturdays: Oryx Rotana. Treat yourself to an informal brunch at Choices, where you can savour the new Oriental family buffet! From 12:00 p.m. till 4:00 p.m. QR 210 per person (price includes food only). For more information call 4402-3333.

AFTERNOON TEA Unlimited Tea & Scones

Daily: Sharq Village & Spa. Enjoy a wonderful afternoon tea at Al Jalsa. QR 65 per person. From 2:00 p.m. till 5:00 p.m. For more information call 4425-6666 or email rc.dohsq.reservations@ritzcarlton.com.

High Tea Time

Daily: Grand Hyatt Doha. Choose from four packages that will take you on a journey through the flavours of the world: Asian, Moroccan, English and the Middle East. For more information call 4448-1318 or email almaha.ghdoha@hyatt.com.

FOOD & DINING LISTINGS

High Tea at Kufic Lounge

Daily: The Torch-Doha Hotel. Take a break and enjoy finger sandwiches, home-made mini pastries with your choice of tea or coffee, in Doha’s trendiest lounge for QR 75 per person. From 3:00 p.m. till 7:00 p.m. For more information call: 444-6500 or visit www.thetorchdoha.com

High Tea @ Victoria Lounge

Daily: Grand Heritage Doha. Enjoy in the warmth and cozy atmosphere of this traditional Victorian Tea Lounge with a combination of fresh sandwiches, homemade flavoured scones and a selection of tea cakes, pastries and sweets. QR 135 for the Tea Stand. From 3:00 p.m. till 6:00 p.m. For more information call 4445-5555.

Seasons Tea Lounge

Daily: Four Seasons Doha. Choux Pastry, prepared to perfection by Executive Pastry chef, Loic Carbonnet. Craving Chantilly strawberry éclair or profiteroles? Crave no more! These delectable pastries will be available throughout the month. From 3:00 p.m. till 6:30 p.m. For more information call 4494-8888.

Big English Afternoon Tea Daily: Sheraton Doha. Atrium Café is the choice for a Big English afternoon tea starting from QR 35! A bright selection of sweet and salty specials to choose from served with Coffee or Tea. Also serving a selection of delicious ice-creams. For more information call 4485-4556.

Malaysian Hi Tea

Saturdays: Holiday Villa Doha. Assorted selections of Malaysian cuisine and also traditional pastries at Lagenda 24 Hours International Restaurant. QR 100 per adult, QR 75 per child (ages 4 – 12 years). For more information call 4408-4888/4220.

Tea Garden

Daily: InterContinental Doha. Afternoon High Tea from 3:30 p.m. till 6:30 p.m. with a selection of finger sandwiches, pastries and free-flowing tea or coffee at QR 85 per person. Amazing infusions and afternoon tea, coffees, fresh fruit juices, pastries and light meals. It’s a perfect haven for peace and quiet any time, day or night. Live entertainment from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. except Saturdays. From 7:00 a.m. till 1:00 a.m. For more information call 4484-4890/4484-4444 or email teagarden@icdoha.com.

BUSINESS LUNCH Seasons In The Sun

Daily: Mövenpick Hotel Doha. Spend a lazy summer’s afternoon enjoying a long, leisurely lunch or quick business lunch at the Seasons restaurant. The enticing daily lunch buffet is packed with many delicious delicacies and a special main course a la carte menu all made up of tasty ingredients for a good lunch break. End your meal with delicious French pastries perfectly complemented by the world famous Mövenpick coffee or enjoy the renowned Mövenpick ice cream. Choose a starter and dessert buffet for only QR 45 or starter buffet and choice of plated main course QR 85. For more information call 4429-1111 or visit www.moevenpick-doha.com.

Express Business Lunch

Saturdays – Thursdays: Grand Hyatt Doha. Combining efficiency, rapidity and quality is now possible in Rocca. A three-course menu will be at your disposal for just QR 85 including mineral water from 12:00 p.m. till 3:00 p.m. For more information call 4448-1272 or email rocca.ghdoha@hyatt.com.

Chopsticks Business Lunch

Tuesdays – Sundays: Wyndham Grand Regency Doha. Offers the ideal solution for busy professionals - an exceptional Asian three-course daily changing set menu served in 59 minutes for QR 59 … otherwise, you get it for free! 12:00 p.m. till 3:00 p.m. For more information call 4434-3203 or email sdesilva@wyndham.com.

Business Lunch Formula

Daily: La Cigale. Le Central welcomes you and your corporate associates for a closed business deal with its specialty Business Set Menu. It will take only a few minutes from your office wherever you are in Doha to savour three choices of light and healthy appetizers, expertly designed main dishes and La Cigale’s irresistible desserts for only QR 150. For more information call 4428-8772.

Cucina Business Lunch

Sundays - Thursdays: West End, Renaissance Doha City Center. La Cucina’s quick and epicurean business lunch offers a three-course menu with a wide range of choices for starters, main course and irresistible desserts. QR 85 per person. From 12:00 p.m. till 3:00 p.m. For more information call 4419-6100 or visit www.westenddoha.com.

FOOD & DINING LISTINGS

Good Mood Business Lunch Sundays - Thursdays: InterContinental Doha. The menu is specially prepared by the new Greek Chef Konstantinos Panou – a choice of a starter, main course and dessert, ready to be enjoyed both in the tempting outdoor terrace overlooking the gardens and the pool or the indoor cozy lounge area. From 12:00 p.m. till 3:30 p.m. For more information call 4484-4096 or 4484-4444.

Express Lunch at Market

Saturdays - Thursdays: W Doha. Choose your starter, main course and dessert and savour chef Vongerichten’s signature dishes in only 30 minutes! The finest dining express lunch ever! From 12:00 p.m. till 4:00 p.m. QR 89 per person for a threecourse menu. For more information call 4453-5373 or 4453-5135.

Express Lunch at Belgian Café

Daily: InterContinental Doha. Choose a two-course set menu for QR 85 per person, or three course set menu for QR 95 per person. Add three tasting brews to your menu for QR 15. From 12:30 p.m. till 2:00 p.m. For more information call 4484-4484 or 4484-4954.

Rushed for Time In Aroma

Daily: Kempinski Doha. Select from the gourmet menu your choice of starters, main courses and desserts and indulge in the most delicate business lunch in Doha for only QR 90 per person. From 12:00 p.m. till 3:00 p.m. For more information call 4405-3325 or visit www.kempinski.com/doha.

Wok Mee Business Lunch Daily: Mövenpick Tower and Suites. The three-course menu just got tastier! For an Asian twist, it spoils you with choice featuring favourites such as the traditional Thai Fish Cakes, Nasi Goreng, Green Mango Salad and Toffee Bananas with Vanilla Bean Ice Cream. QR 85 per person. Get a 15% discount with the MTS membership card. Free membership with every reservation. For more information call 4496-6600.

The Cellar Business Lunch

Express Lunch at Flying Carpet

Sundays - Thursdays: The Torch-Doha Hotel. Enjoy the selection of salads and desserts from the buffet and order your main course from our daily chef’s special. QR 95. For more information call 4444-6500 or visit www.thetorchdoha.com.

The Square Business Lunch

Saturdays – Thursdays: InterContinental Doha The City. The Square’s buffet starter section enables guests to sample a range of crisp, vibrant salads and Arabic cold mezze, followed by à la carte main course options including locally-sourced seafood, prime cuts of meat, and vegetarian selections followed by a final buffet of right-sized desserts. From 12:00 p.m. till 3:00 p.m. QR 88 for 3 courses. For more information call 4015-8888 or email doharestaurants@ihg.com.

Sundays - Thursdays: Oryx Rotana. Grab a quick bite and enjoy The Cellar’s three-course set menu, including a large variety of starters, main dishes and desserts for only QR 85 per person, guaranteed to be served in 60 minutes. For more information call 4402-3333. 91

THIS MONTH'S

TOP PICKS

SPORTS

Summer Treat at Angsana Spa

Fri 1 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Sat 30: The Wyndham Grand Regency Hotel Doha. Step into Angsana Spa, the sister brand of award-winning Banyan Tree Spa and leave your cares behind. Try the True Peace Package for QR 690, or the On Spot Massage for QR 155. For more information call 4434-3203 or 4434-3333 or email sdesilva@wyndham.com.

Zumba Charity Event for Qatar Animal Welfare Society

Fri 8: Ritz-Carlton Doha. Let the music get your feet tapping and your heart thumping! Zumba is allÂ about the music, dancing and having fun and this is also for a good cause! From 5:30 p.m. till 7:30 p.m. (Registration start at 5:00 pm). QR 75 inclusive of snacks, drinks, and raffle prizes. Tickets are available at The Ritz-Carlton, Doha Spa reception. For more information call 4484-8173 or visit www.amiando.com/ZUMBA.

Qatar Football Association

Fri 8: Al Sadd Sports Club. FIFA World Cup Brazil 2014 Asian Qualifiers. Qatar vs Korea Republic Football Match. Kick-off 7:15 p.m. For more information call 4494-4030.

Qatar National Sprint R2

Fri 1: Losail International Circuit. A Sprint is an event for cars where they race in a short oval or circular track for a short distance. You need to register previously in QMMF. 12:00 p.m. For more information call 4437-9884 or email info@qmmf.com.qa.

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Fitness Challenge

Sat 30: Sharq Village & Spa. Get fit with the activity of the month at Six Senses Spa starting from 3:00 p.m. in the mixed activity room. For more information call 4425-6999 or email fitnessm-sharq-spa@sixsenses.com.

SPOTLIGHT ON SPORTS

Game On! By Jorge Granda

The excitement and adrenaline of the UEFA European Football Championship hits the big-screen in Qatar this month. The best European football teams will battle it out for the coveted title and you can watch it live at the super-exclusive Sports Tent at the Marriott Doha Hotel.

f you can’t attend any of the matches of the UEFA European Championship, don’t feel left out of the action. The Marriott Doha Hotel is setting up the hottest sports tent in town, giving spectators with that ‘right-insidethe-stadium’ vibe. Equipped with every element a football fan needs to enjoy the exhilaration of the game, the sports tent is open for everyone. Fans who want to go the extra mile can also experience any of the matches in top-notch VIP areas that are available for private viewings. VIP room access also comes with a fridge packed with your favourite frothy suds. Don’t miss out on free beverages! Spectators who arrive before the whistle blows for kick-off at any match can present the coupon included in the Match Schedule booklet and enjoy their first drink on the house. (Ask for your Match Schedule from any staff members on-site with a limit of one coupon per person only!) For prices and reservations please contact 4429-8422.

Did you know? • The championship was originally named UEFA European Nations Cup until 1968 • The Championship is held every four years, similar to the Olympics. • There have been 13 European Championships won by nine different national teams including Germany, France, Spain, Italy, Czechoslovakia, the Netherlands, Denmark, Greece and Russia.

• The German football teams have been the most successful in the history of the tournament, winning three times. • The previous edition was co-hosted by Switzerland and Austria in 2008 and was won by Spain when they defeated Germany 1-0. • The 2012 edition of the UEFA European Championship will be co-hosted by Poland and Ukraine.

ABOUT UEFA EUROPEAN FOOTBALL CHAMPIONSHIP Event: UEFA European Championship 2012 Date: June 8 – July 1, 2012 Where: Sports Tent at the Doha Marriott Hotel Entry: Free Timing: Daily. Tent opens 30 minutes prior to the first match of the day

SPOTLIGHT ON SPORTS

Qatar’s Kite-Runner By Ashlee Starratt Photography by Soné Moriarty

The popularity of kite-surfing continues to grow, fast taking off as the country’s most innovative way to get outside and stay active during the hot summer months. QH tests the winds. It’s early on a Saturday in May and the heat is already stifling. We arrive in Al Wakra Beach, 40 minutes outside Doha, to meet up with Flora Pestre – French ex-pat and owner and instructor of Flo Kite School here in Doha. The winds are good today and Flo has about half a dozen of her friends from the kite-surfing community on the beach with her. Flora has been a certified kitesurfing instructor for three years and an athlete for six. After discovering the sport in the South of France , Flo Kite School here in Qatar was established in 2010 and Flora is a member of the International Kiteboarding Organization. Kite-surfing is a sport that’s easily accessible for everyone she says, giving lessons to adults and children as young as twelve, up to a maximum of four students per session. We ask what her best tips and tricks are for getting started. “It’s very important to start with a teacher,” she says. “It can look very easy and it’s a lot of fun, but at the beginning you have 96

to be very careful and make sure you’re going out with the right equipment, so it’s best to start in a school. I don’t want to scare anybody but you have to realize that these kites are powerful and if you’re launching them in an improper way on the beach you can be dragged along. But if you’re doing it in the right way, on the water, with the right equipment for your size, then it’s very safe.” Watching Flora and her friends take to the waves, their kiteboards skimming along the surface of the water, the lines 25 metres up in the air, it’s easy to see the enjoyment they get out

of the sport. There aren’t many swimmers at Al Wakra today and the kite-surfers mostly have the beach to themselves, allowing them to spread out on the water and do some spins, jumps and tricks when the right gust of wind hits. Flo’s Kite School offers lessons for both beginners and advanced, starting with a ‘discovery day’ for newcomers to assess their skill level, their size and strength – the sport requires a fair amount of balance and lower body strength – and fitting them with their proper equipment. After their initial assessment, students can then go on to other four-day or week-long programs to help them improve their skills and become autonomous on their boards. “You can learn a lot of things,” Flo says of the sport that’s become her passion. “After a few weeks of training you’ll always have a lot of opportunity to do new things and with the wind conditions changing all the time you’ll never have the same experience twice. Also, you’re outside enjoying the landscape and nature. Kite-surfing allows you to discover new places, get out of the city and make new friends. These are all things I like.” For more information on lessons and prices visit www.flokiteschool.com.

Get Your Motor Runninâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;

SPOTLIGHT ON SPORTS

As told to Jorge Granda

The fastest cars and bikes in Doha will burn rubber at Losail International Circuit this month during three topspeed exhibitions: the Qatar National Sprint R3, the Qatar National Rally R6 and Qatar National Baja R9 and the FIM Endurance World Championship 2012. The Losail International Circuit plays host each month to some of the most spectacular local and international events on the motor-racing calendar. To the delight of car and bike-racing aficionados June is no exception, jam-packed and revved up with only the best to round out the season. Event: National Sprint R3 Date: Friday, June 1, 2012, at 12:00 p.m. Description: A sprint is an event for cars where they race in a short oval or circular track for a short distance. Event: Qatar National Rally R6 & Qatar National Baja R9 Date: Saturday, June2, 2012 Location: The ceremonial start will take place at QMMF in Doha. Description: The National Rally and National Baja is an event for cars where they race in a point-to-point format.

IN FOCUS: Event: FIM Endurance World Championship: 8 Hours of Doha Date: June 7-9, 2012 Description: The FIM Endurance World Championship is the premier worldwide endurance motorcycle-racing championship. The season consists of a series of races held on permanent racing facilities. The results of each race are combined to determine two annual World Championships, one for the teams and one for the manufacturers. Motorcycles must be based on road-going models with a valid FIM certification. The 8 Hours of Doha is the second round of the FIM Endurance World Championship. See the championship calendar below.

For more information, visit www.fimlive.com/en/sport/endurance/events/. For the latest information and updates on events please check www.circuitlosail.com/index.php?page=events. Or contact: Losail International Circuit Al Wusail, North Relief Road T: +974 4472-9151 Email: info@circuitlosail.com Qatar Motor & Motorcycle Federation Salwa Road, 24 T: +974 4437-9884 Email: info@qmmf.com.qa

START

END

EVENT

PLACE

COUNTRY

9/6/2012

FIM Endurance World Championship - 8 Hours Of Doha Qatar

Doha/Losail

QATAR

29/07/12

FIM Endurance World Championship - Suzuka 8 Hours Japan

Suzuka

JAPAN

11/8/2012

12/8/2012

FIM Endurance World Championship - Oschersleben 8 Hours Germany

Oschersleben

GERMANY

8/9/2012

9/9/2012

FIM Endurance World Championship - 24 Heures Du Mans France

Le Mans

FRANCE

SPORTS LISTINGS

ONE OF A KIND Taste of Spa at Six Senses Spa

Fri 1 – Sat 30: Sharq Village & Spa. 30mins body scrub + 30mins back massage + 30mins facial for just QR 800. For more information call 4425-6999 or email fitnessm-sharq- spa@sixsenses.com

Yoga Personal Training Sessions Promotion

Fri 1 – Sat 30: Sharq Village & Spa. Buy five or more Yoga personal training sessions at Six Senses Spa and get three passes free for yoga classes. For more information call 4425-6999 or email fitnessm-sharq-spa@sixsenses.com.

Qatar National Rally R6 / Qatar National Baja R9 Sat 2: QMMF. The National Rally and National Baja is an event for cars. For more information call 4437-9884 or email info@qmmf.com.qa.

FIM Endurance World Championship - 8 Hours of Doha R2

Thurs 7, Fri 8, Sat 9: Losail International Circuit. Endurance World Championship is the premier worldwide endurance motorcycle-racing championship. The season consists of a series of races held on permanent racing facilities with the results of each race combined to determine two annual World Championships. For more information visit www.circuitlosail.com or call 4472-9151.

Ladies Day at The Bay Club

Tuesdays and Wednesdays: InterContinental Doha. Book a 50-minute massage for ladies and get free entry to the pool and beach. From 9:00 a.m. until 6:00 p.m. (25% discount on all food and beverages included for female Bay Club members). Entrance fee for ladies: QR 50, gents: QR 350 and couples: QR 200. For more information please call 4484-4852.

Family Summer Offer at PURE Leisure & Wellness Centre

Daily. Kempinski Residences & Suites, Doha. Family membership at PURE Leisure & Wellness Centre from May 1 to September 1: QR 1,800 per month. Includes entrance to Kids Club from 9:00 a.m. till 1:00 p.m., and 2:00 p.m. till 6:00 p.m. (ages 4-12, max. three children). Membership for entire summer QR 7,000 (4 months). PURE opening times: 6:00 a.m. until midnight. For more information call 4405-3307 or email wellness.doha@kempinski.com.

CLASSES Abs and Stretching

Mondays and Wednesdays: Ritz-Carlton Doha. Stay firm and fit by training your core every week! Starts at 8:15 a.m. Complimentary for members; QR 75 for non-members. For more information call 4484-8173 or 4484-8183 or email spa.doh@ritzcarlton.com.

Abs Workout

Wednesdays and Fridays: InterContinental Doha. The instructors will concentrate on your personal technique to work the abdominal muscles from every conceivable angle. Wednesdays at 7:15 p.m. and Fridays at 11:15 a.m. Free for members; QR 30 for non-members. For more information call 4484-4852 or email bayclub@icdoha.com.

Ballroom Dancing

Mondays, Wednesdays and Saturdays: IAID. Ballroom dancing, a refreshing dance choice, takes participants through a set of partner dances enjoyed at social occasions. Get into the rhythm of swing, salsa, jive, tango, rumba, cha-cha and samba while reaping the benefits of health and fitness. For more information call 4432-0974 or 6671-0589 or email enquire@iaidonline.org.

Circuit Training

Thursdays: InterContinental Doha. Circuit training is widely regarded as the best all-round form of group exercise. This session is not for the faint hearted however, if you enjoy a tough workout in a friendly atmosphere then this what you’ve been looking for. Starts at 6:00 p.m. For members: QR 30, for non–members: QR 40. For more information call 4484-4852 or email bayclub@icdoha.com.

Circuit Training

Mondays – Saturdays: Mövenpick Tower and Suites. First session at 4:00 p.m. and second session at 8:00 p.m. QR 50 per session including use of swimming pool. For more information call 4496-6410.

Kickfit

Thursdays: InterContinental Doha. A highenergy martial arts calorie burner, Kickfit combines boxing, karate, Muay Thai and Capoiera into a fun, yet challenging, total body workout. Using the shadow-boxing format, this class is great for all levels of fitness wanting to burn fat and tone muscles quickly. Thursdays at 10:00 a.m. QR 30 for members and QR 40 for non–members. For more information call 4484-4852 or email bayclub@icdoha.com.

Aerobics

Saturdays - Thursdays: IAID. Aerobics integrates the modern breakthroughs of Pilates, Zumba and high-intensity interval training. With exciting variations and the use of aero- weights, aero-steps, aerokickboxing and hi-lo aerobics, participants enjoy a satisfying and fun work out. For more information call 4432-0974 or 6671-0589 or email enquire@iaidonline.org.

Pilates

Tuesdays and Thursdays: Yama Yoga Studios. Pilates classes help to build flexibility, strength and coordination throughout the whole body. Starts at 6:00 p.m. on Tuesdays and 10:00 a.m. on Thursdays. QR 60. For more information visit www.yamayogastudios.com or email yamayogastudios@gmail.com.

SPORTS LISTINGS

Spinning

Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays: InterContinental Doha. This spinning program has no complicated moves to learn, is in a motivating group environment taught by top-notch instructors and all set to music that begs your legs to pedal. Best of all spinning is adaptable to your fitness level. Mondays and Wednesdays at 6:15 p.m., Fridays at 12:00 p.m. and Saturdays at 9:00 a.m. QR 25 for members, QR 35 for non-members. For more information call 4484-4852 or email bayclub@icdoha.com.

Spinning (Interval)

Tuesdays: Ritz-Carlton Doha. Crank up your energy and start losing all those unwanted pounds with this energizing exercise. Starts at 5:30 p.m. Complimentary for members: QR 75 for non-members. For more information call 4484-8173 or 4484-8183 or email spa.doh@ritzcarlton.com.

Soccer is Back!

Saturdays: Ritz-Carlton Doha. Soccer is the most popular team sport in the world and can be enjoyed by boys, girls and adults of all ages. Soccer is not only great fun and good for your health but you also get to make lots of friends along the way! Coach Ousama trains the little ones and teaches the values of team-play while Captain Mathias practices together with adults. 3:30 p.m. for kids, 4:30 p.m. for adults. Price QR 50 for non members. For more information call 4484-8173 or 4484-8183 or email spa.doh@ritzcarlton.com.

Step AO2

Mondays and Wednesdays: InterContinental Doha. Step AO2 improves both mental and physical fitness, burning away calories while learning fun routines to the newest music (more suitable for intermediate steppers). Starts at 10:00 a.m. QR 30 for members, QR 40 for non-members. For more information call 4484-4852 or email bayclub@icdoha.com.

Swimming

Wednesdays â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Mondays: MĂśvenpick Tower and Suites. Lessons for all ages. Book ten sessions and receive two for free. Adults: QR 1,000. Children: QR 900. Advanced booking is required. For more information call 4496-6410.

SPORTS LISTINGS

Yoga Ashtanga 1

Sundays, Tuesdays and Fridays: Yama Yoga Studios and Ritz-Carlton. Ashtanga 1 (Level 1/2) has been designed to introduce students to the Ashtanga practice. Sundays and Tuesdays at 6:00 p.m. and Fridays 10:00 a.m. For more information visit www.yamayogastudios.com or email yamayogastudios@gmail.com.

Open Beginner Yoga

Sundays and Tuesdays: Yama Yoga Studios and Ritz-Carlton. Level 1 classes are suitable for anyone interested in beginning yoga but who still wants to experience the challenge of a flow yoga class. Starts at 10:00 a.m. QR 60 per class. For more information visit www.yamayogastudios.com or email yamayogastudios@gmail.com.

Open Vinyasa Yoga

Sundays to Tuesdays: Yama Yoga Studios and Ritz-Carlton. Experience level 2 and 3. Classes suitable for people who are looking for a physical challenge as well as deep relaxation. Starts at 8:30 a.m. and 7:00 p.m. QR 75 and QR 60 per class. For more information visit www.yamayogastudios.com or email yamayogastudios@gmail.com.

Prenatal Yoga

Sundays, Wednesdays and Saturdays: Yama Yoga Studios and Ritz-Carlton. Prenatal Yoga classes help women experience more comfortable and mindful pregnancies. Sundays at 10:00 a.m. (Ritz), Wednesdays at 5:45 p.m (Ritz) QR 75 per class and Saturdays at 10:00 a.m. (Yama) QR 60 per class. For more information visit www.yamayogastudios.com or email yamayogastudios@gmail.com.

Yoga

Sundays, Tuesdays and Thursdays: IAID. Yoga relieves stress and meets overall health and fitness. The course focuses on Hatha Yoga which paves the way to a holistic yogic path including physical postures, purification procedures, poses, yogic breathing and meditation. For more information call 4432-0974 or 6671-0589 or email enquire@iaidonline.org.

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Zumba

Saturdays to Mondays and Wednesdays: IAID. Zumba is the latest dance fitness craze and is spreading fast worldwide. This upbeat workout is fantastic for kids and adults alike. For more information call 4432-0974 or 6671-0589 or email enquire@iaidonline.org.

ACTIVITIES & CLUBS Bike Riding

The Corniche Aspire Park

Bowling

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

Ice-Skating

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

Sailing

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

Swimming

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

Tennis & Squash

Khalifa Tennis & Squash Complex 4440-9666

Golf

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

Horse Riding

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

Walking

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

QH SENSATIONS

The Art of Living

LIVE EXPERIENCE TOUCH LOOK

QH SENSATIONS

Olympic Countdown:

ORED SPONS BY:

London 2012 By Ashlee Starratt

The eyes of the world are on London as the 30th Summer Olympiad gears up to take over the city from July 27-Aug 12. QH and Gulf Air team up with the travel tips you’ll need to bring home the gold. Getting There with gulf air It’s roughly an eight-hour flight from Doha to London, stopovers not included, and making the trip in maximum comfort and for the best price is a priority! You can’t be touching down in London all jet-lagged and bleary-eyed. Thankfully QH and Gulf Air have you covered. Gulf Air is the premiere airline from the Middle East to London, providing passengers with the best quality service on their Olympic journey. As the national carrier for the Kingdom of Bahrain, Gulf Air offers 42 weekly flights between Doha and Bahrain, providing greater flexibility and connectivity for travellers from Doha to key destinations in Europe. The airline’s flexible flight schedule allows passengers to connect to London, Frankfurt, Paris, Rome and Copenhagen in less than two-hour transit time via Bahrain International Airport – perfect for travelers on their way to Heathrow for the Olympics. The airline’s current network stretches from Europe to Asia, connecting 50 cities in 31 countries with a fleet of 37 aircraft. Gulf Air also unveiled their new worldwide in-flight entertainment program, Sky Hub. Passengers can access high-speed Wi-Fi, streaming videos and the world’s first in-flight live-TV satellite stream across continents. Travelers to the London Games can also benefit from Gulf Air’s Falconflyer program – considered one of the best miles-earning 104

systems in the Middle East for premium class customers. The program includes offers such as redemption rates, special online booking bonuses, a generous baggage allowance, three years miles validity, unlimited lounge access, priority baggage handling and guaranteed seats among many other perks that will make your Olympic traveling experience more enjoyable and rewarding.Travelers can also access the premium Gulf Air Falcon Gold Lounges in Bahrain and in Terminal 4 at London’s Heathrow Airport. The architectural design of the new 1,720 sq.ft space gives a sense of openness and freedom, featuring well laid-out business, dining and lounging facilities, TV areas and addition panoramic views of the runway through a high glass wall. A round-trip economy class ticket from Doha to London for one adult and one child through Gulf Air starts from QR 7750 (Adult: QR 3060, Child: QR 2290, Taxes: QR 2400) departing July 26th, just in time to catch the Opening Ceremonies! Accommodations With millions of people descending upon London for the Games, securing a place to stay is key and the farther in advance you book, the better. Holiday Inn is the official Olympic hotel sponsor with 45 hotels in and around the city. Expect to pay a

premium during this busy time, especially at central locations. Also be prepared to strike out with a lot of ‘no vacancies’ before finding a hit. For example, a room at the Holiday Inn Oxford Circus in downtown London for two adults and two children, checking in on July 25 is £275.21 or QR 1629.20 per night. Whereas the same room with the same check-in date farther outside the city in Slough, near Heathrow Airport is £120.32 or QR 712.27. If you’re a student traveling on a budget, there are plenty of hostels, lodges and campgrounds that are of good value at a fair price. The Hyde Park View hostel in Central London has private rooms starting from QR 185 a night, while a stay in St. Christopher’s Hostel in Greenwich will cost you QR 166 per night. Or, if you have friends or family living in or around London now is the time to finally start planning that visit you’ve been talking about. Nothing beats a free couch or spare room! For more information on where to stay and to plan your booking check out www.visitbritain.com or www.hostelworld.com. Tickets With over 26 sports and 10,500 athletes participating from around the world, Olympic tickets are hot commodities.

QH SENSATIONS The ticketing process started a year ago with a national lottery for residents of Great Britain. People living in the U.K. and other designated European countries could go online to the London 2012 website and choose from a myriad of sporting events, dates, locations, qualifying and medal rounds and Opening and Closing Ceremonies. Having submitted their event choices and seating preferences, tickets were issued via random draw to ensure fairness amidst overwhelming demand. If you weren’t selected for your choices in the first round, a second draw was held back in early December to issue more. Spectators and travelers outside the European region can not apply online and must submit all ticket selections to their country’s regional Olympic Committee office which then sends the ballots to London. Visit www.olympic.qa for the location here in Qatar. There are still four million tickets available for sporting and cultural events at the Games and the best way to snag them now is to have someone you know living in the U.K. order them online. Ticket prices range from surprisingly affordable to incredibly steep depending on the seating area, popularity of a given event and whether or not it’s a medal round. For example, front row seats at Wembley Stadium for the men’s football gold medal match are £185 or QR 1095 apiece, while ‘nosebleed’ section seats at the back are only £40 or QR 236. For a full schedule of events and ticket prices go to www.tickets. london2012.com. There is also an official ticket resale program that opened the end of May for Olympic ticketholders who can no longer use their passes – a good way to snag seats at a cheaper price. Transportation London has one of the most advanced public transportation systems in the world, but during the Olympics the strain on that system is going to be hectic to say the least. According to a recent report last month in the U.K. Telegraph, the city is expected to support an additional three million public transport journeys on top of its current load of 12 million a day. With a complex network of buses, ferries and

105

QH SENSATIONS Tube lines, navigating your way around can take time and should be planned well in advance to avoid being late for an event due to traffic congestion. In an effort to make the Games more accessible, spectators can use the public transport system for free on the day of their ticketed event with the Games Travelcard. City officials have upgraded the transit system to accommodate the extra flow of passengers, with London’s busy Jubilee Line on the Tube able to transport an extra 12,500 people an hour while the Central Line will have trains running every two minutes during peak hours for the duration of the Games. Also, many people tend to flock to the underground Tube lines which can be advantageous for folks who make use of the city’s alternative public transit – buses and water ferries. With Olympic venues scattered far and wide (see map), making use of these options is essential. A good majority of sporting events are held centrally in London and its outlying boroughs, but certain categories are held outside of the city. For example, rowing and canoe sprint competitions are at Eton Downey, an hour and half ride from the city via public transit, and a portion of women’s football matches are at Hampden Park – an hour and forty minutes away. The key is to give yourself as much time as possible to and from events, regardless of location, and remain patient as the crowds can be daunting. For more information on getting around, traveling with special needs, or how to pick the route that’s best for you, visit www.travel.london2012.com. Live It Up Whether you have tickets to official events and activities or you’re simply there to take in the scenery, being in London during the Summer Games will be a special experience. It’s all about finding your groove and enjoying the rich diversity and sense of universal connectedness and camaraderie. There’s a multitude of ways to have the best Olympic experience possible whether or not you even take in a single medal round. 106

With a cast of 15,000 performers the Opening and Closing Ceremonies will feature the best of the best in British talent with a global flavour. Though the performer’s names are still under wraps as we go to print, rest assured the nights will be star-studded. Don’t worry if you don’t have a ticket – both ceremonies will be broadcast from Olympic Stadium on Jumbotron screens in Hyde Park. Expect masses of people to flood the park and surrounding streets, most likely camping out to get prime real estate, so get in line and find a choice spot to pitch your tent. On May 18th the Olympic torch leaves Greece bound for Britain, visiting over 1,000 communities across the realm over the next two months. It will arrive at Olympic Stadium in London on July 27 during the Opening Ceremonies, lighting the Olympic Flame which will burn throughout the duration of the Games. Any guesses on who the final torchbearer will be? There are also more cultural events happening during the Olympics than any Londoner can shake a stick at. Roam through the 2.5km Olympic Park in East London: home of the Olympic Stadium, Aquatics Centre and Velodrome and playing host to numerous performers, musical showcases and ‘art-in-the-park’ events. It’s the perfect place for families.

Competing with the London Eye is the Orbit; open to spectators who have tickets to enter Olympic Park, the Orbit is an art structure designed specifically for the Summer Games. Standing at 115 metres high it offers some of the best views of the city; visitors can purchase tickets online to explore the Orbit via a 30-minute tour. Also part of the Cultural Olympiad is the London 2012 Festival featuring world-class musical acts, comedians and artists taking over the city in celebration of the Olympic spirit. Visit www.festival.london2012.com for a full schedule and line-up of performers and locations. And, finally, if you’re too knackered after all the sights and sounds, you can always enjoy watching the Olympic broadcast from the comfort of one of the numerous restaurants, pubs and lounges London is so famous for. We recommend The Fence in Farringdon – this inviting outdoor space with large TV screens, a refreshing menu and lots of summer sunshine (we hope!) on the patio, is one of the best spots in the city to sit down, rest your feet and enjoy it all from afar without missing a single thing! Still need more info to plan your perfect trip? Go for gold and head to www.london2012.com, www.olympic.org, and www.visitlondon.com to claim the podium.

QH SENSATIONS

A Greek

Getaway By Mike Moriarty

No one wants to come home from a holiday feeling tired out from a long flight. In only four short hours by plane from Doha you can be whisked away to Greece experiencing the sights and sounds of lively cities and visiting some of the most historical sites in the world.

o be honest, visiting Greece was never on my bucket list. Don’t get me wrong, I’ve always wanted to see the Parthenon and other such attractions, it’s just that it wasn’t in my top list of countries I must see right away. However, my wife and I found that despite the current economic problems, Greece is a country that truly transports you to simpler, more romantic time.

Regardless of where you stay in Athens, rather than paying expensive taxi fares, take the train into the city for less than half the price. Most hotels and hostels boast views of the Acropolis, which is 108

true, since the city is built around the great peak with its ancient ruins. We stayed at a hotel in Monastiraki within walking distance to the Acropolis. The Athens Centre Square Hotel where we stayed was not too expensive and had excellent service and very clean rooms, offering a full American-style buffet breakfast to start you on your day of sightseeing. We found the location to be perfect as we were able to walk to the popular tourist destinations, as well as the neighbouring dining hotspots in the suburb of Plaka and the central shopping districts in between.

The Greek dining experience is really something to behold. As you walk down the busy street at night, with the Parthenon lit up in all its glory overlooking the city like a beacon, elderly gentlemen invite you to dine at their family-owned establishments. It may be a sign of the times, but we were constantly offered ten percent off or free dessert with dinner as a further incentive. The food is amazing and guaranteed fresh. Be sure to try the grilled octopus and the mixed seafood and meat platters, just a few of the Greek specialties we enjoyed! Food is relatively inexpensive and the Greek people like to make dining an experience to be savoured, so take your time and enjoy the ambience of it all.

QH SENSATIONS Visiting the Acropolis is a special experience. The sheer enormity of the architecture boggles the mind, as does the quality of what is left for tourists to see. All around the Acropolis are dozens of ancient ruins in various grades of condition that can be explored at your leisure. You can buy a cheap ticket that gains you access to all of the sites for four consecutive days. The Parthenon is incredible, as is the amphitheatre and the view over the city is breathtaking. Be sure to wear comfortable footwear and take water with you as Athens is renowned for its hot weather and the walking tracks to the different sites involved climbing some good-sized hills. Also don’t forget to visit the newly built Museum on the east side of the Acropolis.

You have two options to get to any one of the Greek Islands, fly or take the ferry. Obviously the ferry option is cheaper, but 3-4 hours slower, coupled with the extra challenge of avoiding the many monthly port strikes. Fortunately we were able to miss the holdups on our ferry trip to the island of Santorini. Like the many other Greek Islands in the Aegean Sea, Santorini is full of charm and natural beauty. We spent our time on the island driving around on hired scooters, walking around the white-washed and blue-topped villages of Fira and Ia and exploring the many beaches, art galleries and eateries on the island. We stayed in the beach village of Perrisa, at a family owned bed and breakfast called Stelios Place and I would recommend it to anyone visiting the island. As it was off-season, the island was relatively quiet and many restaurants and

clubs were in the process of renovating for the upcoming busy season. However, we had a blast on the island and would both go back again. There really is something intoxicating about the villages perched on a cliff overlooking the azure and sparkling sea, which made leaving such a bittersweet experience. To be honest I really don’t think I have done the holiday justice. There are so many special sights, experiences and people we met that cannot fit into this article. Athen’s vibe and energy, counterpointed with the ancient ruins and cultural heritage sites really are everything people say they are. So my advice to you is, go experience it for yourself! As of June 1, one adult economy class round-trip ticket from Doha to Athens starts at QR 2920 through Qatar Airways.

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Escaping to fantastic happening destinations around the world does wonders. Here are some

Boi Bumba Festival June 28th-30th: Brazil

Every year, during the last three days of June the Brazilian town of Parintins comes to life with the Boi Bumba Festival. Reminiscent of the country’s famous Carnivale, Boi Bumba celebrates the folklore and legends of this Western region through song, dance, vibrant costumes, parades and floats. Revelers can enjoy the blend of Aboriginal and Portuguese culture without getting lost in the overwhelming crowds that are the hallmark of Carnivale celebrations in larger cities such as São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro. Put on your best and brightest colours and dance on over to www.boibumba.com to plan your adventure.

Antarctic Midwinter Festival June 17th-26th: Tasmania

June means winter in the Southern Hemisphere and celebrating its indelible connection to the Antarctic, the Tasmanian city of Hobart comes alive with this five-day festival of all things exploration. Journey back to the early days of the race to the South Pole when this island off the coast of Australia was an international starting point for explorers. Enjoy exhibits of Antarctic artifacts, cinema from the Polar Regions at the Longest Night Film Festival and a solstice party to mark the occasion. Pack a parka and visit www.traveldownunder.com.au to start your excursion.

Edinburgh International Film Festival June 20th-July 1st: Scotland

Enjoy some of the best contemporary cinema from around the world in one of the most historic cities in the British Empire. Established in 1947 as part of the city’s International Festival, the EIFF continues to bring ground-breaking films to the big screen, sparking dialogue and debate while providing a platform for movies that have gone on to enjoy a wide release and critical acclaim. You’ll never know who you might bump into at the local watering hole as famous faces abound during the 11-day event. Academy Award-winning films that have screened at EIFF include ‘Little Miss Sunshine’, ‘Billy Elliott’, ‘The Hurt Locker’ and ‘An Inconvenient Truth’. Bring some extra popcorn and visit www.edfilmfest.org.uk to see this year’s line-up.

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The Big Five Marathon June 23rd: South Africa

This extreme sporting event gives a whole new meaning to communing with nature for participants and spectators. Held in a different regional game reserve each year, athletes in this 10km race will run on the open savannah amidst some of Africa’s ‘big five’ apex animals: elephants, Cape buffalo, lions, rhinos and leopards. Billed as one of the Top 10 Marathons Worth Traveling For by Forbes Magazine the event is symbolic of the way the huntsmen of the African tribes would hunt these majestic wildlife on foot. Is that a lion on your tail? Better run faster until you reach www.big-five-marathon.com.

Europe Formula 1 Grand Prix June 22nd-24th: Spain

The seaside city of Valencia satisfies its need for speed as the Europe Formula 1 Grand Prix zooms into town. With a unique urban circuit, the race course is one of the most visually appealing with a high level of technical skill required as drivers navigate around the city’s marine coast-line. Lucky spectators can also enjoy the race from the comfort of their own boat or yacht as the circuit winds past the Marina Juan Carlos I, the speeding rubber only inches from the Mediterranean waters. Steer yourself to www.valenciastreetcircuit.com for more information and make sure your gas tank is full.

VIRGIN RECOMMENDS

QH brings you the

top picks from every corner of

Virgin Megastore.

Look out for the

QH heart in stores!

Around The World in 80 Dishes by David Loftus Camera in hand, photographer David Loftus takes us on a globe-trotting journey all for the love of food. Sharing tantalizing images, history and recipes of the different kinds of ethnic cuisine that make up the human tapestry of the globe, Loftus has us right where he wants us – by the stomach. Also includes a foreword by celebrity chef, Jamie Oliver.

Calico Joe by John Grisham

Lana Del Rey: ‘Born To Die’

The master of the legal thriller genre is back with a new novel that focuses on the heart of the American home-town spirit – baseball. But sometimes it’s the politics and deception that happen off the field that matter more than the fastest pitch or home-run.

With her sultry demeanour and husky voice, Del Rey’s debut album has been climbing the charts and is set to keep on going. (Don’t pay any attention to that infamous SNL performance!) Hit singles ‘Video Games’ and ‘Blue Jeans’ have propelled her into the limelight and we foresee her sticking around for a good while yet.

Downton Abbey, Season 2 Mad Men, Season 4 With season five finally back on the air after an extended hiatus, fans who need to catch up can do so with the season four box set. Life and times are changing for the Drapers as divorce looms, new love blooms and the world of the New York advertising industry remains as cut-throat as ever heading into the 1960s. 112

It seems that half the globe has fallen for this British period drama set in the years leading up to World War I. The Crawley family and their servants are at the heart of the show’s examination of the class system in Britain during the turn of the century. Starring the inimitable Maggie Smith, the series is the hottest thing on the tube right now.

SPOTLIGHT ON MOVIES

coming ... soon

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QH helps you get your Hollywood fix with these hottest flicks of the month.

Dark Shadows Comedy/Fantasy

Horror

An imprisoned vampire, Barnabas Collins, is set free and returns to his ancestral home, where his dysfunctional descendants are in need of his protection.

Six tourists hire an extreme tour guide who takes them to the abandoned city of Pripyat -- former home to the workers of the Chernobyl nuclear reactor. During their exploration, they soon discover they are not alone.

Director: Tim Burton Stars: Johnny Depp, Michelle Pfeiffer and Eva Green QH Fun Fact: Johnny Depp went on a brutal diet of green tea and low-sugar fruit to get his weight down to a vampiric 140 lbs for the lead role of Barnabas.

Hick Comedy/Drama A Nebraska teen gets more than she bargained for when she sets out for the bright lights of Las Vegas. Director: Derick Martini Stars: Chloë Grace Moretz, Blake Lively and Rory Culkin QH Fun Fact: Actor Rory Culkin is the younger brother of former child mega-star Macauley Culkin.

Girl in Progress Comedy/Drama As single mom Grace juggles work, bills and her affair with a married doctor, her daughter, Ansiedad, plots a shortcut to adulthood after finding inspiration in the coming-of-age stories she’s reading for school. Director: Patricia Riggen Stars: Eva Mendes, Cierra Ramirez and Patricia Arquette QH Fun Fact: Before she hit it big, actress Eva Mendes was featured in music videos for Will Smith’s ‘Miami’ and Aerosmith’s ‘Hole in my Soul’. 114

Chernobyl Diaries

Director: Bradley Parker Stars: Jesse McCartney, Jonathan Sadowski, Olivia Dudley, Nathan Phillips QH Fun Fact: Despite high radiation levels, Pripyat has been the location for filming of two documentaries, one movie, one short film and an episode of the American reality show Destination Truth.

Men in Black III Action Agent J travels in time to MIB’s early years in the 1960s, to stop an alien from assassinating his friend Agent K and changing history. Director: Barry Sonnenfeld Stars: Will Smith, Tommy Lee Jones, Josh Brolin, Alice Eve QH Fun Fact: This will be Will Smith’s first movie role in nearly 3 ½ years – the biggest gap in his career since 1993. Welcome back to the big screen Will!

The Dish on Qatar

New to the country? Welcome to the desert! We’ve got the essential info you’ll need to make the most of your time in this Gulf State. The Rubber Hits The Road

Settling In: You’ve Got Mail The postal system in Qatar is unique, with one central QPost outlet processing a large volume of mail for the entire country. Most mailing addresses are P.O. Box numbers and it’s uncommon for people to have a residential address, instead most opt to have packages mailed to their place of employment. If you live on a compound or are considering moving to one it’s worthwhile asking if they offer a mail delivery service. Some compounds do provide individual P.O. Boxes for residents with an employee traveling to the central distribution outlet by the Corniche to check for mail, then delivering it directly to the compound. If you’re willing to shell out a few more riyals there are also a number of regional and international courier services, such as FedEx, DHL and Aramex that will hand-deliver parcels to your door. QPost’s rates for overseas mail and parcel shipping are lower but items can take much longer to arrive. A complete breakdown of postage prices can be found at www.qpost.com.qa.

With its growing population, burgeoning car culture and frantic roundabouts, rush-hour in Doha can be daunting; but the process of getting a Qatari driver’s license shouldn’t be. The path to freedom on four wheels starts with first getting your Resident Permit I.D. card. Once you have this in hand you will need a letter from your sponsor (usually an employer or family member), saying that there are no objections to you obtaining a Qatari license and purchasing or renting a vehicle. Take the letter along with your RP card, I.D. size photo and original driver’s license from your home country to the

Ministry of the Interior’s Traffic Department located near Landmark Mall. Once there you will have to fill out paperwork and take an eye test for a fee of QR 20. The status of the license you hold from your country of origin will determine whether or not you need to re-take a 12-day driving course or road test. Certain licenses are deemed ‘international’ and can be transferred to a Qatari one and processed the same day for a fee of QR 250. These regulations can be subject to change so to help determine your driving status contact the Traffic Department in advance at: http://www.moi.gov.qa/site/english/ departments/trafficpolice/index.html.

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IT HAPPENED

red bull b-boy competition The Pearl, May 4, 2012

QSL 18th Heir Apparent Cup Al Gharafa Stadium, April 26, 2012

116

IT HAPPENED

Lulu Food Fiesta â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;12 Lulu Hypermarket Gharafa May 2, 2012

Centre: Japanese Ambassador H.E. Kenjiro Monji

lulu food fiesta cookery contest Lulu Hypermarket May 12, 2012

117

IT HAPPENED

EGYPTIAN FOOD Centre-right: Egyptian Ambassador Mahmoud Fousi Abu Dunya FESTIVAL Sharq Village and Spa, April 25, 2012

tHIRD ASD CHAMBER MUSIC SERIES ASD Fine Arts Theatre, April 28, 2012

Pianist Michael Dalberto

118

IT HAPPENED

Mr. & Miss Dana Club Competition Dana Club April 27, 2012

Women Leading Change CONFERENCE Ritz-Carlton Doha, April 29th, 2012

Left: Moona Masri-Whitice

Buthaina Hassan Al-Ansari 119

IT HAPPENED

Thai Ambassador Panyar

ak Poolthup

Perlis Malaysia Food Festival Holiday Villa Hotel May 1, 2012

Left: Mr. Moh

120

ammed Tale

b Al Khauri

His Royal Highness Tuanku Syed Faizu

a ddin, Crown Prince of Perlis in Malaysi

IT HAPPENED

3rd on Left: Nick Flynn, Director of Food & Beverage & Kitchen Operations. Far right: Rania J. Keedy, Director of Sales & Marketing

Executive Sous-Chef Nicholas De Visch

Strata Grand Opening InterContinental Doha The City May 7, 2012

Left: Rania J. Keedy Centre: Kate Jones, Marke ting & Communic ations Manag er

121

IT HAPPENED

Dar yl Simps

THE CELTIC TENORS Ramada Plaza Doha May 19, 2012

Mat thew Gilsenan

Gulf Jazz Festival Grand Hyatt Doha April 29, 2012

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PHONE DIRECTORY

Hospitals / Emergency Ambulance, Police & Fire Department Doha Clinic Hospital Emergency Hotline Al Ahli Hospital

Real Estate Ahmed Hassan Bilal Trad. & Cont. Co.

4442-8877

Interior Design Forum Design

4456-8716

Hotels / Restaurants Al Gassar Resort 4424-4881 Al Mourjan Restaurants 4483-4423 Biella 4467-7731 Chowking Salwa Road 4437-1212 Chowking Al Saad St. 4431-4411 Doha Marriott Hotel 4429-8888 Four Seasons 4494-8888 Grand Hyatt 4448-1234 Holiday Villa 4408-4220 Hilton Doha 4423-3333 InterContinental 4484-4444 InterContinental Doha The City 4015-8888 Kempinski Residences & Suites 4405-3333 La Cigale Hotel 4428-8888 Mövenpick Hotel 4429-1111 Mövenpick Tower & Suites 4496-6115 Oryx Rotana 4402-3333 Ramada Plaza 4428-1555 Renaissance Doha City Center 4419-5000 Ritz-Carlton 4484-8000 Sealine Beach Resort 4476-5299 Sharq Village & Spa 4425-6666 Sheraton Doha 4485-4444 Souq Waqif Boutique Hotels 4433-6666 Sizzling Hot Pot 4411-5225/ 4411-5335 St. Regis Doha 4483-1644 Swiss-Belhotel Doha 4407-8888 The Diplomatic Club 4484-7444 The Noodle House 4411-5063 4446-5600 The Torch Doha Hotel W Doha 4453-5353 Wyndham Grand Regency 4434-3333

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999 4438-4333 4435-5999 4489-8000

Doha Dental 4431-7766 Hamad General Hospital 4439-2222 Rumailah Hospital 4439-3333 Pediatric Emergency Centre 4439-2948 Qatar Foundation for Child & Woman Protection Hotline 4466-6671 / 72 / 73

Health / Beauty Angsana Spa Bader Chemist Bay View 26, Wellness Centre Bliss Bottega Verde Dados Beauty Salon Diva Lounge Diplomatic Spa Doha Marriott Spa Ebn Sina Medical Foot Care Centre Lulu Gharafa The Center City Center Four Seasons Spa Frank Provost Glow American Salon, Salwa Westbay GoodLife Chemist City Center The Pearl Guerlain Alfardan Spa La Cigale - Ozone Spa Medical Spa Villaggio Patrice Salon Ritz-Carlton Spa Saray Spa Six Senses Spa Spa Chakra

4434-3152 4441-1888 4496-6410 4453-5555 4483-4535 4498-0033 4431-8488 4484-7412 4429-8520 800-2288 4478-0510 4436-6275 4493-0394 4494-8801 4494-8844 4468-9945 4411-7652 4483-9100 4495-3876 4499-9250 4428-8888 4451-7590 4485-4012 4484-8173 4419-5517 4425-6999 4499-9250

Tourism / Travel Alpha Tours Arabian Adventures World Wide Destination Emirates Airlines Fox Transport Gulf Adventures Qatar Airways Reservations Qatar Airways Holidays Qatar International Adventures Qatar International Tours Qatar Tourism & Exhibitions Authority Regency Travel & Tour Victoria Car Rental

4434-4496 4436-1461 4467-1200 4438-4477 4462-2777 4422-1888 4449-6666 4449-6969 4455-3954 4455-1141 4499-7499 4434-4444 4466-6635

Shopping Alfardan Jewellery 4440-8408 City Center Doha 4483-0582 4469-4848 Hyatt Plaza Landmark Mall 4487-5222 Lagoona Mall 4433-5555 Royal Plaza 4413-0000 Salam 4448-5555 The Gate Mall 4493-2524 Villaggio 4413-5222 Virgin Megastore Villagio 4413-5823 Landmark 4418-2245

Community Australian and New Zealand Business in Qatar Group

6651-1892

American Women’s Association 5511-8085 Doha Players

4447-4911

Egyptian Women’s Association 5572-4171 French-Speaking Ladies Group 5559-7467 German Stammtisch

4487-6959

Indian Women’s Association

4442-4052

Qatar Intl. Beauty Academy

4454-2422

Qatar National Cancer Society 4447-8128 Red Dotters Qatar

5520-9294

Silver Dhow Association

4435-2598

South African Ladies Association 5589-2366 Spanish Speaking Ladies Group 6664-2094 Talking Matters Toastmasters 5580-7524 Turkish Ladies Group

5550-8026

Clubs Bridge Club

5554-0873

Doha Garden Club

5523-1650

Dana Club

4496-0600

Doha Golf Club

4496-0777

Doha Sailing Club

4443-9840

Filcom Toastmasters Club

5540-3971

Qatar Scientific Club

4458-3780