Qatar Happening - June 2015 by Qatar Happening

QH June 2015 - May 25.indd 2

5/25/15 6:33 PM

QH June 2015 - May 25.indd 3

5/25/15 6:33 PM

QH June 2015 - FINAL.indd 4

5/26/15 5:58 PM

QH June 2015 - FINAL.indd 5

5/26/15 5:58 PM

QH June 2015 - May 25.indd 6

5/25/15 4:25 PM

QH June 2015 - May 25.indd 7

5/25/15 4:25 PM

QH June 2015 - May 25.indd 8

5/25/15 4:25 PM

TABLE OF CONTENTS

pg 42 Ramadan: Sharing Moments

June 2015 EVERY ISSUE 11 12

Editor-In-Chief's Letter

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

ENTERTAINMENT 17

Top Picks

Arabian Nights

Art Ignites

Amy Up-Close

Reaching For The Stars

Virgin Recommends

Arts & Culture Listings

QH Speaks

The best of our monthly social media,

plus the Hit-Or-Miss List

The QH Grab-Bag

Our monthly prize corner for your chance to win

106 It Happened

QH’s photo gallery of the latest happening eventsin Doha

116 Phone Directory

Need-to-know phone numbers

ARTS & CULTURE

How much effort goes into prepping an extravagant Ramadan tent? We head to La Cigale to find out! Our favourite female comedienne débuts her new animated feature as we go one-on-one with Amy Poehler The best monthly entertainment picks from the Megastore

Spotlight On Movies

Entertainment Listings

Sixteen year-old local artist Emre Suner's drawings are the buzz of the celebrity world

Find out everything that’s going on this month

Our top five must-see films of the month

Find out everything that’s going on this month

LIKE US ON FACEBOOK www.facebook.com/qatarhappening

For customer service and subscription questions, such as renewals, billing and account status, email info@qatarhappening.com QH June 2015 - May 25.indd 9

We explore Qatar Museums' new Fire Station space to learn how it's fast becoming a platform for emerging artists

CHECK OUT www.qatarhappening.com for the latest information

9 5/25/15 4:25 PM

TABLE OF CONTENTS COMMUNITY 41

Top Picks

Ramadan: Sharing Moments

Our introduction to the Holy Month will have you eager to celebrate

For The Love Of Giving

Heights For Hope

Step Into Summer

Community Listings

Doha College students Erin Quigley and Sophie Jago are raising funds to build schools in Nepal for those in need Climbers from Qatar and across the Arab world are scaling the peaks of South America to fund access to education for the children of Gaza

pg 82

Our round-up of VCUQatar's most creative summer camps – and how to enroll

Building Qatar's National Football Team

Find out everything that’s going on this month

FOOD & DINING

SPORTS

QH SENSATIONS

Top Picks

Bella Italia

The Only Way Is Up

Puttin' On The Ritz

Chef Marco's Table

Fitness In Motion

Know Your Roots

Camps For Kids

Health And The Holy Month

The Fitness Guru

Why The Ritz-Carlton's Porcini restaurant is still the best Italian in town Il Teatro's Chef Marco Arlotti offers up a lamb dish with an Italian twist this Ramadan

Word Of Mouth

Our contest winner Rachel Winter relishes the tastes of Latino Steakhouse in the Sheraton Doha

Flavours Of Ramadan

Your complete guide to the city's five-star iftars and suhoors throughout the Holy Month

Food & Dining Listings

Find out everything that’s going on this month

As Qatar continues to build up its national football team, we look to the example of Iceland to see how a small nation can change the game Keep fit and have fun this Ramadan with Aspire Active's roster of summer programs Evolution Sports has your kids covered when it comes to football, swimming and much more this summer We meet female fitness instructor and body-builder Lucy Sewell to find out why more women should be lifting weights

Sports Listings

Find out everything that’s going on this month

An afternoon at The Ritz-Carlton Spa leaves us shining bright like a diamond – literally We go inside roots, the chic, new British-owned beauty salon now open in Doha

Our top tips to help you maintain your optimal fitness and nutrition levels during Ramadan

102 San Francisco: The Dreamscape City

From Golden Gate Park to the iconic Mission District, we take the city by the bay by storm

104 The Dish On Qatar Our favourite traditions of the Holy Month

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

QH June 2015 - May 25.indd 10

Call Details: Inquiries: Marketing: Fax:

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

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

5/25/15 4:25 PM

From The Desk Of The Editor-In-Chief

On The Cover?

QH celebrates the Holy Month! Photo Credit: Conceptualized by Zahi Srour

About Us QH is your voice and your guide for all things fun, funky and happening in Qatar! Send us your feedback to editor@qatarhappening.com.

Dear friends, May you all enjoy the blessings of the Holy Month as we welcome the arrival of Ramadan mid-June. As the rest of the country slows down, for us at Qatar Happening it’s a time when we kick into gear as your complete festivities guide. So it’s my hope that you’ll find our June issue as comprehensive as they come – because Ramadan is a time when both locals and expats alike should come together in celebration, learning from one another and appreciating the value we all bring to our shared community. And there’s certainly no shortage of events – from iftars, suhoors, Garangao celebrations and Eid festivals – to keep you occupied. As the country’s hotels ready themselves for a month’s worth of decadent nightly suhoors, we go behind-the-scenes at one of the most lavish Ramadan tents to find out what it takes to put together a celebration worthy of five luxury stars. Then, take inspiration from the pros to create your own version for an iftar or suhoor with family and friends. Ramadan is also a time when non-Muslim expats who are new to Qatar may be unsure what to expect from their first experience. That’s why, in our Community section, we help you get ‘Ramadan ready’ with a feature on the traditions, practices and ways of life during the Holy Month. It's a time of year that myself and my family hold dear as we honour and uphold the importance of helping others, as these selfless acts of kindness and charity embody the true spirit and meaning of Ramadan. For fasting Muslims, there are also some added health factors to take into consideration –especially when Ramadan falls during the scorching summer months. In Sensations we offer you ways to stay healthy and fit while fasting, with enough hydration to last you through the daylight hours. With our evenings full of family iftars and lush suhoors, the Holy Month shouldn’t be a time when we put our exercise routines on the back burner – and we give you some tips on how to maintain your workout regimen throughout the fasting period. From all of us at Qatar Happening we thank you for sharing another Holy Month with us as your guide and wish you and your loved ones a joyous Ramadan Kareem! Thank you for making us a part of your lives,

Publisher: The Art of Business Chairman: Ahmed Hassan Bilal Editor-in-Chief: Nasser Ahmed Hassan Bilal Editor: Ashlee Starratt Finalizer / Production Manager: Srimani Welagedara Lead Designer / Brand Manager: Zahi Srour Photographer: Jessie Palanca Sales and Communications Manager: Jorge Granda Sales and Marketing Manager: Marisela Paesano New Media Manager: Serah Mary Sampath Web Coordinator: Imran Khan Interns: Melanie Isakowitz, Aisha Javaid Marketing Coordinator: Chet Tibayan Administrative Coordinator: Marisol Vinculada Distribution & Accounts: Lanie Fillo-Pana Contributors: Shahmim Akram, Sarah Al Motairi,

Jacqueline Bodnar, Shaad Fotos, Jessica Furseth, Rodger Gillen, John Hunt, Sophie Jago, Jan Janssen – Viva Press, Jonny Parr, Amara Photos, Erin Quigley, Lynsey Riach, Nicola Simpson, Gulf Times, Ujwala Thirumurthy, Sandee Thompson

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

Nasser Ahmed Hassan Bilal

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

Printed by Aspire Printing Press - 2015 11 QH June 2015 - May 25.indd 11

5/25/15 4:25 PM

SPEAKS

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

The Hit-Or-Miss List

It’s More Fun In The Philippines How stoked were we to hear that Philippine budget carrier Cebu-Pacific Air is now flying direct out of HIA from Doha to Manila? June 5 marked their inaugural flight from Qatar, and now thousands of expats and tourists will have an affordable alternative to fly home, or to visit the island nation. From Manila, to Cebu, to Puerta Princesa, take your pick of the tropics!

Editor’s Corner Ramadan Kareem to all our readers – after the blink of an eye the Holy Month is here again! This will be my fourth Ramadan living and working in the Middle East and after three and a half years I can finally say it’s truly grown on me. I love the pace of Ramadan…the slow, sunny days and the brilliant suhoor-filled nights. The working hours may be reduced, but our deadlines aren’t – we’re still going round-the-clock to bring you the most up-to-date edition of the magazine so you don’t miss a single iftar celebration! We’ve expanded our Food & Dining listings this month to include the timings, offerings and specials on the city’s top Ramadan tents, plus in Sensations look at some tips you need to know in order to make health and wellness a priority while fasting during the Holy Month. Then, our Dish On Qatar column will introduce new expats to some of the most cherished traditions of the season. We’re also proud to showcase one of our largest Community sections ever in this issue. From mountainclimbers, to inspiring National Cancer Day survivors, there are some truly feel-good tales to make you smile over your evening cup of karak. Then, over in Entertainment be sure to check out our exclusive interview with the queen of comedy Amy Poehler, as the Saturday Night Live alum lends her voice to this month’s newest animated feature, Inside Out. With the summer upon us, we can also look forward to some new openings in Doha’s food and dining scene. Not least of all from our very own AHB Group, who have just recently brought Qatar’s first outlet of Harry Ramsden’s World Famous Fish & Chips to The Pearl. They’re also filling our cups with fresh java from Coffee Planet, so be sure to slow down and savour a mug. And if you’re taking in a show at Novo Cinema on The Pearl, you can now swap out the popcorn and sweets for healthy, fresh snacks from the new Crunch Cantina. We’ll be bringing you more info on all of them in the coming months as they're opening soon! In the meantime, we hope you keep enjoying every iftar and suhoor.

Wailers On Top Last month, May 11 marked the 34th anniversary of reggae legend Bob Marley’s death in 1981. May 22, marked the date when his iconic band The Wailers performed live at the Sheraton Doha for the first time in Qatar. The show was incredible…original Wailer and bassist Aston ‘Family Man’ Barrett was a treat to watch, while the vocals of Adam Baluch, Dwayne Anglin and Cegee Victory gave us chills! A huge shoutout to Indigo VIP for bringing us such a class-act!

The Sound And The Fury After a recent move into the residential building of a prominent West Bay hotel, the ruckus from the weekly beach and tiki parties at the other property next door have become too much to handle for one QH staffer. Noise complaints and sound-canceling headphones haven’t been enough to turn the volume down on this one. Bring on the peace and quiet of Ramadan!

See you next month,

Ashlee Starratt Editor

Top Of The Twitter-Verse @rayhaanhomar

dan to make it better than the

Reflect: what will I do differently this Rama last??? #ramadancountdown

Pay It Forward Though we don’t need a special month to help others, during Ramadan our thoughts turn to doing good deeds as charitable work is an important part of the Holy Month. If you want to lend a helping hand there’s loads of ways to get involved. Make a donation to Qatar Charity (www.qcharity.com), help support our furry friends at QAWS (www.qaws.org), or donate some Eid gift-boxes to the Dhreima Orphanage (www.q-orphans.org).

12 QH June 2015 - May 25.indd 12

5/25/15 4:25 PM

QH June 2015 - May 25.indd 13

5/25/15 4:25 PM

Relax with poolside at the Marriott Marquis new rooftop shisha terrace

This monthâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s grab-bag is about experiencing the Holy Month of Ramadan in one of the city's best fivestar hotels. The Marriott Marquis City Center Doha is treating one of our readers and a friend to a two-night stay and a succulent iftar and suhoor. To participate, head over to the Qatar Happening Facebook page where the winner will be selected on June 12.

Images courtesy of the Marriott Marquis City Center Doha The Marriott Marquis City Center Doha is ideally located in the buzzing hub of West Bay. Only 30 minutes from Hamad International Airport and a five-minute walk to the Corniche, this elegant, hip and contemporary hotel offers breathtaking views of the skyline and the Arabian Gulf. Offering a full-service hotel experience with a large variety of international restaurants, executive lounges and 35m rooftop pool, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a go-to choice for the modern business executive and fun-seeking leisure traveler. For business and group travelers, the Marriott Marquis boasts 17 meeting rooms across 1,200sqm, all equipped with state-of-the-art facilities. The hotel also has a 740sqm Grand Ballroom which can be divided into six sections, with a reception area in the foyer. Encompassing various elements from Qatar, ranging from its design to cuisine, the Marriott Marquis City Center Doha provides its guests with a unique environment and comforts in the form of luxurious bedding, spacious rooms, high-speed internet and amenities. The Hotel also offers colourful fabrics, innovative designs and local artworks featuring Doha architecture.

Visit The Marriott Marquis Ramadan Tent The exquisite setting at Wanassa is the perfect place to experience the Holy Month of Ramadan. This year, during their two-night stay, two lucky QH readers will immerse their senses in live Oud music, sip on traditional Ramadan beverages, and savour mouth-watering delicacies freshly-prepared at interactive cooking stations. Good luck to all our participating fans and a joyous Ramadan Kareem! n

A tanoura dancer spins a dervish during suhoor

This year's tent is all about the grandeur and luxury of Arabia

14 QH June 2015 - May 25.indd 14

5/25/15 4:25 PM

QH June 2015 - May 25.indd 15

5/25/15 4:25 PM

QH June 2015 - May 25.indd 16

5/25/15 4:25 PM

ENTERTAINMENT

Top Picks

W DOHA My Grooves

Tuesdays: Wahm. Wahm presents ‘My Grooves’ a new concept of soul/funk and disco every Tuesday with one of Doha's favourite DJs Steve Paris spinning music all night. From 5:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. For more information call 4453-5000.

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA THE CITY Strataspheric Funk Night On The 55th!

Second day of Eid: Strata. Celebrate the second day of Eid at Strata. Deep and funky house music enthusiasts will enjoy the beats played by Global DJs. Let them take you higher as they journey into the stratosphere! For more information visit www.intercontinental.com/dohathecity.

MARRIOTT MARQUIS CITY CENTER DOHA Let’s Get Quizzical

Photo credit: Amara Photos

May 8: Champions Sports Bar & Restaurant. Join Champions for the best quiz night in Doha with a maximum of six contestants per team to win the first prize of QR 3,000. Free entry. From 7:30 p.m. till 9:30 p.m. For more information call 4419-6100 or visit www.marriottmarquisdohadining.com.

CROWNE PLAZA DOHA – THE BUSINESS PARK Ladies First THE ST. REGIS DOHA Late Night Live

Mon-Sat: JALC Doha. JALC Doha is extending the feel-good-factor after the Dinner Show into the night, with more live performances of world-class artists hitting the stage from 10:00 p.m. For more information call 4446-0105, or e-mail diningreservations@stregis.com.

Thurs, Fri & Sat: Liquidity. It’s lovely being a lady! Find out why every weekend at Liquidity. QR 50 for the ladies with unlimited sips plus one bite, and QR 100 for the gents with one sip and one bite. From 8:00 p.m. till 12:00 midnight. For more information call 4408-7777.

17 QH June 2015 - May 25.indd 17

5/25/15 4:26 PM

ENTERTAINMENT

Arabian Nights

By Jorge Granda Selected images courtesy of La Cigale Hotel

Ever wondered what it takes to set up a lavish Ramadan tent? We met with the team at La Cigale to find out!

he practice of erecting five-star luxury Ramadan tents is an integral part of Qatar. As the Holy Month approaches, hotels across Doha create the lush, Arabic interiors as a focal point for all social activities during Ramadan. One of them is La Cigale, whose Ramadan tent – constructed around their large indoor pool – is perhaps one of the most breathtakingly elaborate. But how many months of planning and prep go into designing the crown jewel of iftar and suhoor? Setting up La Cigale’s intricate tent requires a ton of work that starts six months before Ramadan. It also involves strict compliance with general safety standards and Civil Defence regulations. Initial planning starts well in advance as the team of La Cigale gathers to plan the execution of the tent. This involves buying the materials needed – including carpets, tables, chairs, lamps, bulbs, etc. The planning also involves setting up the menu and discussing the design of the interiors and furnishings. Four different teams work closely to ensure the success of the tent and oversee that all is done properly.

The array of food options at La Cigale's Ramadan tent is the largest on offer in the city

Construction Team They’re in charge of set-up and define the concept of the tent. From carpeting the space to developing and coordinating the design and table alignment, this team is pretty much in charge of the physical look and feel of the space. They start doing the

ground-work one month before the tent opens to the public, building it in the pool area of the hotel which is closed to the public during this period. It takes about 40 workers, and technicians work day and night for a full four weeks to guarantee a flawless and impeccable finished concept.

18 QH June 2015 - May 25.indd 18

5/25/15 4:26 PM

System Team They’re in charge of the sound-system, all audiovisuals, lighting and music.

Safety & Security Team These guys head up the entire security of the tent, from evacuation plans and setting up the fire-system, to abiding by the rules and regulations established by Civil Defence.

Kitchen Equipment Team This team is in charge of all waiters, chefs, catering and banqueting. Around 70 people are part of this team and their main role is to make sure the operations run smoothly during the Holy Month so every guest has a wonderful experience.

Fun Facts • The first year La Cigale set-up a tent, they outsourced all the services including the designers. For the second year, up until now, every single aspect of the tent is done in-house. From the design to the execution. • All items inside the tent are bought by La Cigale. Nothing is rented or borrowed. • The tent caters to 450 to 600 people every day during Ramadan. • This Ramadan there won’t be any live entertainment – only background music. • The tent at La Cigale offers the biggest variety of food in Doha – more than any other Ramadan tent. Over 100 different dishes are available at the buffet area. • This year there will be an Italian section for the first time! • La Cigale’s tent is so large it boasts three fire exits.

What’s On Offer This Ramadan, surround yourself in authentic traditions at Qatar’s finest tent and savour a lavish suhoor buffet with a variety of Oriental and international dishes, live cooking stations and succulent desserts. QR 250 per person, with special discounts and inclusions will be applicable for groups of 20 people and above. For reservations call 4428-8809/10.

Shisha At The Tent Eight shisha experts are out-sourced by the hotel to work during Ramadan at the tent. The charcoals are prepared outside the tent in a 5x5-metre area on the terrace outside. This is standard firesafety practice!

Private Iftar Invitations Amaze your guests and colleagues in one of La Cigale’s luxurious venues with a variety of festive feasts specially-crafted by the dedicated chefs. QR 220 per person inclusive of buffet, mineral water, Ramadan juices, soft drinks, tea or coffee. Special discounts will be applicable for groups. For reservations call 4428-8809/10. n

Poolside grandeur for Ramadan

19 QH June 2015 - May 25.indd 19

5/25/15 4:26 PM

ENTERTAINMENT

Amy Up-Close

By Jan Janssen Interview and selected images courtesy of Viva Press

She’s held rank with best friend Tina Fey at the news-desk of Saturday Night Live; made us laugh in her turn as do-good city councilor Leslie Knope on Parks and Recreation, and has graced the big screen in countless femalepositive comedy roles. Now America’s favourite funny-woman Amy Poehler is back on the big screen, lending her voice to the new animated comedy Inside Out. QH goes behind-the-scenes.

ver the years, Amy Poehler has acquired a reputation as one of TV's funniest women. Her work on the popular American late-night comedy show Saturday Night Live earned her a

massive public following and helped launch her career in a variety of TV series and movies including Blades of Glory and Anchorman 2 alongside former SNL alum Will Ferrell. Together with her other SNL colleague Tina Fey, Poehler also attracted widespread praise for co-hosting the Golden Globe awards. But Poehler has become perhaps best known of late for her role as Leslie on the cult TV show Parks and Recreation, now entering its seventh and final season. The petite comedienne (she's 5'2") admits to suffering from some post-series-partum blues these days: "I have withdrawal pangs about not getting to work the people [on the show]," Poehler says. "We're texting each other like crazy and trying to maintain our spirits and not lose contact. It's hard. But we had such a good time together for so many years that I'm so grateful and it's one of the best things that has ever happened to me in this business." The 43-year-old Poehler has also moved on in another area of her life. Last year, she filed for divorce from her husband of ten years and fellow actor/comedian Will Arnett after two years of

separation. They have two children together and frequently worked together on various projects including Arrested Development and on Blades of Glory. Amy has been in a relationship with comedian Nick Kroll for the past two years and has appeared on his TV series, Kroll Show. Later this year, Poehler will be playing her first female lead role in a feature film when she co-stars opposite Tina Fey in the highly-anticipated comedy, Sisters. They previously worked together on the 2008 comedy, Baby Mama. Poehler is also the voice of the character Joy in the PIxar animated film Inside Out set for release this summer. Inside Out tells the story of the little emotional voices inside your head. In this case, we’ve got Joy (Amy Poehler), Fear (Bill Hader), Anger (Lewis Black), Disgust (Mindy Kaling), and Sadness (Phyllis Smith) operating a command centre of sorts in the mind of a pre-teen girl named Riley. Previously, Amy voiced the character of Bessie in The Mighty B, an animated Nickelodeon series she co-created about a hyper girl who’s obsessed with collecting merit badges in her Brownies-like troop.

20 QH June 2015 - May 25.indd 20

5/25/15 4:26 PM

dy Poehler's defining female come characters have revolutionized the e. genre for women over the last decad

21 QH June 2015 - May 25.indd 21

5/25/15 4:26 PM

ENTERTAINMENT

– literally! Inside Out brings out all emotions Joy, Fear and Sadness. (L-R) Anger, Disgust, a teenage

QH: Amy, you've done a lot of voice-work in recent years. What do you like most about that? AP: It's a lot of fun to be able to create this character using your voice, as well as working in terms of the designs and drawings they show you in many cases where you have an idea of how to come up with a very distinctive voice. I also love being able to do something that kids and families can enjoy because I have two children of my own and I want them to grow up watching all the fabulous animated movies and cartoons that I loved to watch as a kid. QH: Where do you get your inspiration for doing so many wild and wacky voices over the course of your career? AP: I’ve been doing that kind of ‘kid’ character for a long time. I did that character at Upright Citizens Brigade [comedy troupe] before I came to SNL, the Brownie kid named Cassie McMadison. Bessie was an amalgamation of a lot of different voices and things that I had done. I really liked the idea

of playing that kind of optimistic, super-intense, go-get-‘em spirit combined with being a little bit of an outsider. I’m really drawn to girls of that age in general, who believe they can be a waitress, scientist, actress, a dentist, a zookeeper…and who really aren’t boy-crazy. QH: In addition to your decade-long stint on Saturday Night Live, you've earned a lot of attention for your work on Parks and Recreation. How do you feel about coming to the end of the road on that beloved kind of series? AP: Sometimes you wish a series like that could go on forever. Unfortunately, I checked with people and that doesn't happen. But it was a privilege for us to be able to end the show the way we wanted to end it and have a proper good-bye. This was our farewell tour in a sense. The final season gave us a chance to work together, knowing in advance how things would evolve and how it would all come to a close. Some series just get

cancelled and you're left hanging along with the audience. But with our series we had developed this connection with the public that other series don't necessarily make and so this way we were able to take the audience on the final journey with us. QH: Have you always known that you have a natural talent for comedy? AP: When I began doing theatre in high school I saw that I could get laughs from people, but I didn't really connect that to going on and becoming a comedian. I was interested in acting and while I was at Boston College I was part of an improv group, Mother's Fleabag, which had a long history and has been known as one of the best college improvisation groups in the U.S. That's where I started working on the kinds of skills that you need for comedy. It's about being creative and learning to use your gift for being able to let loose and be very un-selfconscious. It took me time though before I was really able to get comfortable doing that.

22 QH June 2015 - May 25.indd 22

5/25/15 4:26 PM

we have to agree beforehand to divide the funniest lines between us. But Tina is so brilliant that I just love every moment working with her and also just hanging out together as friends. QH: Why have you and Tina Fey decided not to do the Golden Globes again? [They've hosted the awards show for the past three years.] AP: Sometimes you need to know to quit while you're ahead or at least before things get much worse! [Smiles]. We've accomplished pretty much what we wanted to do with the show and now it's time for someone else to take up the challenge. But we're very proud that we were the first women to co-host an awards show like that and that's a good sign that women should keep getting these kinds of opportunities.

Poehler and the cast of NBC's ation award-winning Parks and Recre

Poehler and close friend Tina Fey have co-hosted the Golden Globe Awards together for three years running

QH: You've admitted to being a feminist. What does that mean to you? QH: Why was that? AP: I had to come to terms with how I saw myself. I had to understand that I wasn't pretty or beautiful like most actresses and that I shouldn't care about whether other people found me attractive or not. It seems a strange thing, but once I was able to get past that kind of self-image problem, I was able to open up in my comedy work and just go all out, take chances, and have fun with the performance aspect of that. QH: You're also going to be working with Tina Fey again in Sisters opening at the end of the year. What's it like working with Tina â&#x20AC;&#x201C; especially during all your years at SNL together? AP: The first time I got to know her and her work I thought she was an incredibly bright and sharp woman. We met in Chicago (at the Imrpov Olympic workshop) and I heard that she once wrote a play about Catherine the Great and a horse. Anyone

who has the kind of inventive and inspired comic sensibility to be able to do that kind of work must be pretty talented. That's why I wanted to get to know her and start working with her while we were taking [improv] classes together. But an interesting thing about the beginning of our friendship and professional collaboration was that the improv scenes we would do together were basically dramatic and not funny at all. Neither of us ever imagined that we would make a good comedy team in some way or work together doing comedy sketches on SNL. It's just wonderful that it all worked out that way. QH: What has been your experience like hosting the Golden Globes together? AP: It's been so much fun. Because we know each other so well from SNL, we can tell where our jokes are going to take us. Some things we'll ad-lib, but usually we try to work about our lines together in advance and the only tough thing about that is that we tend to want the same jokes. So

AP: Women need to take charge of their lives and be as dynamic and active as they can be. I know that some people feel that there's a negative connotation to the notion of feminism like it has some hidden and ugly undercurrent. But that's ridiculous. My mother was a feminist and she was very politically-minded and always anxious to defend women's rights and advance a lot of social issues for women. I just want to help other women achieve as much as they can in society without restraints being imposed on us. It's the most natural and normal thing to want to defend your rights to equal opportunities, equal pay for equal work, and everything that comes with that. QH: How is your life going these days? AP: I feel very blessed. I have the chance to do so much interesting work these days in addition to enjoying my life as a mother and making my kids' world as happy and joyous as possible. I think of this time in my life as one where I can just move forward and enjoy all the good things that are happening to me. n

23 QH June 2015 - May 25.indd 23

5/25/15 4:26 PM

VIRGIN RECOMMENDS

QH BRINGS YOU THE TOP STAFF PICKS FROM THE MEGASTORE

NAME: ASHREF ELRARBE STORE SECTION: MULTIMEDIA TIME AT VIRGIN: 11 MONTHS

Best Part of My Job:“Customer service. I’m helping customers, talking with them, sharing ideas – so this is the best thing!”

MINECRAFT XBOX 360

BATTLEFIELD HARDLINE PS4, XBOX ONE

A classic that never goes out of play! Fans of the original computer game can hone their imagination and strategy to create entire worlds. With single or multi-player options available through the Xbox LIVE! function, build and conquer together or solo – just watch out for the monsters that come out at night. Retail price: QR 119.

This edition of the first-person shooter series shifts from the military front-line to the streets of Los Angeles and the boys in blue. Players can tackle the ‘war on crime’ with access to militarygrade weapons and vehicles, plus new game modes such as Heist, Rescue and Cross-Hair. Keep those streets safe why don’tcha! Retail price: QR 299.

SUPERNATURAL: SEASON 9 DVD, BLU-RAY We’ve followed the Winchester brothers for nine nail-biting seasons in this WB Network original series… and it all comes down to this! With Sam’s life hanging in the balance it’s up to Dean Winchester to call on some otherworldly help to save his younger brother and continue on their quest in the fight between good and evil. Retail price: QR 270.

THE HUNGER GAMES: MOCKINGJAY PART 1 DVD, BLU-RAY Marking the near-end of the blockbuster film series, the first installment of the final movie sees heroine Katniss Everdeen emerge as a symbol for the revolution in Panem. After quelling the Hunger Games for good, she’s on a mission to save both Peeta and the nation from the tyranny of the Capital. Retail price: QR 89.

MORTAL KOMBAT X: SPECIAL EDITION PS4, XBOX ONE NetherRealm Studios has knocked this tenth installment out of the park. Featuring eight new characters, a deeper storyline and some serious mechanical improvements, fans of the series will be best pleased. With enhanced graphics and animation and the return of X-Ray and Finishing Moves, the story picks up 25 years after the dark events of the 2011 release. We especially love new character Cassie Cage! Retail price: QR 299.

24 QH June 2015 - May 25.indd 24

5/25/15 4:26 PM

QH June 2015 - May 25.indd 25

5/25/15 4:26 PM

Spotlight On Movies Jump into June full-throttle with our pick of its top-five screen-worthy flicks!

JURASSIC WORLD

ENTOURAGE

Action, Adventure, Sci-Fi Twenty-two years after the events of Jurassic Park (1993), Isla Nublar now features a fully-functioning dinosaur theme park, Jurassic World. But after ten years of operation and visitor rates declining, a new attraction is created to re-spark interest… but when it backfires, things become deadly. Stars: Chris Pratt, Bryce Dallas Howard, Vincent D’Onofrio QH Fun Fact: This is the first film in the series not to feature original cast members Sam Neill, Laura Dern and Jeff Goldblum. I guess you could say they went extinct. Hmm…was that too soon?

INSIDE OUT

Comedy Movie star Vincent Chase, together with his boys Eric, Turtle, and Johnny are back – and back in business with super-agent turned studio head Ari Gold. Stars: Adrien Grenier, Jeremy Piven, Kevin Connolly QH Fun Fact: Critics of the original HBO series were so against the film that they actually raised $3 million through a Kickstarter campaign to prevent it being made. Ironically the money ended up covering set costs and health insurance for the actors.

TED 2 Comedy Newlywed couple Ted and Tami-Lynn want to have a baby, but in order to qualify to be a parent Ted will have to prove he's a person in a court of law. Stars: Seth MacFarlane, Mark Wahlberg, Amanda Seyfried QH Fun Fact: Mila Kunis couldn’t come back to star in this hilarious sequel due to the fact that she and fiancée Ashton Kutcher were expecting their first child.

Animation, Comedy, Family After a girl moves into her new house, her emotions are plunged into chaos as they compete for control of her mind.

Action, Adventure A young teenager camping in the woods helps rescue the President of the United States when Air Force One is shot down near his campsite.

Stars: Amy Poehler, Diane Lane, Mindy Kaling

Stars: Samuel L. Jackson, Onni Tommila, Ray Stevenson

QH Fun Fact: The characters for each emotion are all based on shapes. Joy is a star, Anger a fire brick, Sadness a teardrop, Fear a raw nerve, and Disgust…a broccoli!

QH Fun Fact: Filmed in Finland’s Lapland region, the movie’s 8.5 million Euro budget makes it the most expensive Finnish film production ever.

BIG GAME

26 QH June 2015 - May 25.indd 26

5/25/15 4:26 PM

QH June 2015 - May 25.indd 27

5/25/15 4:26 PM

QH June 2015 - May 25.indd 28

5/25/15 4:26 PM

ENTERTAINMENT

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

QH RECOMMENDS

REGULAR PROMOTIONS CROWNE PLAZA DOHA – THE BUSINESS PARK Shaken Or Stirred?

Mondays: Liquidity. The hotel invites you to chillout at Doha’s favourite rooftop lounge while sipping freshly-made drinks and listening to funky beats from their resident DJ. From 8:00 p.m. onwards. For more information call 4408-7788.

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA Big Night Out

Wednesdays: Paloma & Lava. It’s Doha’s biggest ladies night with unlimited complimentary selected drinks for ladies. Dance to the tunes of Paloma’s new resident band, Sizzle, followed by two dancefloors with resident DJs from 10:00 p.m. till late. For more information call 4484-4919 or 4484-4444.

Lava Theme Nights MARSA MALAZ KEMPINSKI Signature Molecular Creations

Daily: Bohemia. Bohemia oozes sophistication and is surrounded by luxury and comfort. The lounge offers the finest selection of molecular creations to ensure the experience is as unique and spectacular as the setting itself. Bohemia is the-place-to-be for those who dare to explore and experiment during their beverage adventures. From 5:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. For more information call 4035-5011, email restaurants.marsamalaz@kempinski.com, or visit www.kempinski.com/marsamalaz.

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

SPECIAL PROMOTIONS HILTON DOHA Happy Hours

Daily: Blanco. Blanco rooftop lounge is your new after-work haven. Enjoy relaxing lounge music, shisha, drinks and gourmet bites with unbeatable views of the Gulf. Enjoy a 50% discount on selected beverages and complimentary snacks. From 5:00 p.m. till 8:00 p.m. For more information call 4423-3413.

MARRIOTT MARQUIS CITY CENTER DOHA Be Your Own DJ

Daily: Champions Sports Bar & Restaurant. Connect and play your choice of music with their new JukeBox application. Free entry. From 5:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. For more information call 4419-6100 or visit www.marriottmarquisdohadining.com.

All outlets listed here will be closed during the Holy Month of Ramadan Bounce Arenas

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

MÖVENPICK HOTEL DOHA Perfect Match

All-Month: Jazz Up. If you consider yourself a connoisseur of the finer things in life, sit back and relax at Jazz Up while sipping one of their fine imported drinks. For every bottle of grapes purchased in June, guests will be presented with a complimentary cheese platter and a rich variety of international cheeses and condiments. Prices start from QR 145 per bottle. For more information call 4429-1111.

Sundays: Lava welcomes you to the world of Arabian nights. DJ Alex is on the decks to play the best of khaliji hits, plus the latest Arabic and English commercial dance mixes to move you all night. Enjoy and have fun till late with the best in Oriental and English music, alongside the usual quality drinks and service from Lava. Mondays: Urban Diva Night with DJ Shadi. Enjoy two free drinks for ladies and no entrance fee from 10:00 p.m. till late. Tuesdays: Your Tuesday night is about to get much hotter. Lava offers an open bar for all female cabin crew with DJ Shadi on the decks playing the latest top house music mash-ups. Thursdays: Vibe Nights with their resident DJ. Fridays: Martini Madness with DJ Shadi playing his top-class house music, mash-ups, R&B and hip-hop. Come down every Friday night as they bring you an evening of high-quality music alongside the usual quality drinks and service from Lava! (Ladies get two Lava special drinks all night). Saturdays: Themed parties every Saturday night. Doors open from 8:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. For more information call 4484-4919 or 4484-4444.

Happy Hour

Daily: Paloma. Enjoy an amazing Happy Hour from 5:00 p.m. till 7:00 p.m. with selected beverage offerings seven days a week and exclusive food offerings on Saturday, Sunday and Monday with a 50% discount off their a la carte menu. For more information call 4484-4919 or 4484-4444.

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA THE CITY After-Work Evenings Sun-Thurs: Hive. De-stress with an after-work visit to Hive and make the most of their buy-one-get-one free offer on selected house beverages between 5:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. For more information call 4015-8888.

29 QH June 2015 - May 25.indd 29

5/25/15 4:26 PM

ENTERTAINMENT Bucket Day

Fridays: Hive. Quench your thirst with bucket drinks starting from QR 150-QR 175, while listening to funky tunes. Also, perform your favourite song for the crowd from 10:00 p.m. till 12:00 midnight. For more information call 4015-8888.

Super Saturdays

Saturdays: Hive. Gather the boys and get down to Hive on Saturday to enjoy the best the Premier League has to offer, while indulging in a 20% discount on food items and a bucket promotion of six bottles for QR 175. For more information call 4015-8888.

KEMPINSKI RESIDENCES & SUITES Cosmopolitan Ladies Night Mondays: The Lounge. At ladies night at The Lounge, ladies enjoy 50% off the Cosmopolitan special drinks menus and a complimentary choice from the nibbles menu. From 8:00 p.m. till 12:00 a.m. For more information call 4405-3325, email restaurants.doha@kempinski.com or visit www.kempinski.com/doha.

Loose Tie

Sundays: The Lounge. Imagine Cuban flavour surrounded by well-aged oak barrels and a touch of perfection...sounds tempting? Come and join your fellow connoisseurs on Sunday evenings at The Lounge from 8:00 p.m. till 12:00 midnight. For more information call 4405-3325, email restaurants.doha@kempinski.com, or visit www.kempinski.com/doha.

'The Secret House Party'

Wednesdays: The Lounge. Psssst, it’s a secret! Come and see DJ Kinky D performing next to the signature bar of The Lounge. From 9:00 p.m. till 12:00 midnight. For more information call 4405-3325, email restaurants.doha@kempinski.com, or visit www.kempinski.com/doha.

Deep House Night Out

Thursdays: The Lounge. Enjoy a tech house and deep house night out with DJs Hamad Al-Obaidly, Tough Stuff and Crazy U. Thursdays from 10:00 p.m. till 1:00 a.m. For more information call 4405-3325, email restaurants.doha@kempinski.com, or visit www.kempinski.com/doha.

MARRIOTT MARQUIS CITY CENTER DOHA Ladies Night

Wednesdays: Glo Cocktail Bar. Ladies can indulge every Wednesday from 5:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. at Glo, with a selection of house beverages and a special concoction every month. The ladies-only two-for-one Happy Hour runs from 8:00 p.m. till 9:00 p.m. with a special drinks menu starting at QR 25 for ladies – plus treats and surprises on your way out! Free entry. For more information call 4419-6100, or visit www.marriottmarquisdohadining.com.

Listings After Brunch Sessions

Fridays: Glo. Because brunch without an after-brunch session is just a lunch! Join in after brunch at Glo Cocktail Bar for their After Brunch Sessions where guest DJs spin the latest grooves. From 5:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. For more information call 4419-6100, or visit www.marriottmarquisdohadining.com.

MÖVENPICK HOTEL DOHA Be Entertained At Jazz Up

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

ORYX ROTANA DJ Night

Saturdays: Jazz Club. One of Doha’s best DJs will be playing all the hot new tunes and introducing a new twist to the Jazz Club. For more information call 4402-3333.

Ladies Night

Ladies On The Roof

Wednesdays: The Rooftop. Enjoy a fabulous ladies night al fresco on the one-and-only Rooftop. Buy-one-get-one-free on selected beverages. From 5:00 p.m. till 8:00 p.m. For more information call 4446-0226 or e-mail rooftop.doha@stregis.com.

W DOHA ‘The VIBE’ Ladies Night

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

Kiss N’ Fly Ladies Night

Wednesdays: Crystal. Every Wednesday, Crystal hosts Doha’s favourite Ladies Night with resident DJ Tobias Sabido mixing up the latest tunes. Ladies get three free drinks. From 10:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. For more information call 4453-5353.

Arabesque Night

Saturdays: Crystal. Crystal proudly presents every Saturday, Arabesque Night featuring LAYALI 1001 NIGHTS with the stars Fadi & Mazen performing all the latest Arabic songs live, while DJ Imran mixes the best of R&B and commercial house. For more information call 4453-5353.

Tuesday: Jazz Club. Join in ladies and indulge in three complimentary drinks from 5:00 p.m. till 10:00 p.m. After that, enjoy a 50% discount on selected drinks and kick back for the night with the jazz band Why Not playing. For more information call 4402-3333.

THE GRAND HYATT A1 Nights By Xtremer Entertainment

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

See us online! www.qatarhappening.com

THE RITZ-CARLTON Hospitality Night

Daily: Habanos. Hotel professionals and airline crews enjoy a 25% savings on selected menu items. From 8:15 p.m. till 12:30 midnight. For more information call 4484-8504, or email rc.dohrz.leads@ritzcarlton.com.

Cigar Night

Fridays: Habanos. Enjoy a 25% savings on all cigar selections. From 5:00 p.m. till 12:45 midnight. For more information call 4484-8504, or email rc.dohrz.leads@ritzcarlton.com.

THE ST. REGIS DOHA Ladies Night

Tuesdays: Vintage Lounge. Step into the glamourous and elegant Vintage Lounge for a great night out. Ladies enjoy a 50% discount off selected beverages from 6:00 p.m. till 1:00 a.m. For more information call 4446-0000.

30 QH June 2015 - May 25.indd 30

5/25/15 4:26 PM

QH June 2015 - May 25.indd 31

5/25/15 4:27 PM

ENTERTAINMENT

Champions Sports Bar & Restaurant Marriott Marquis City Center Doha

Wahm Lounge The W Doha

Admiral’s Club The Ritz-Carlton

Beach Bar Lounge The Four Seasons Belgian Café InterContinental Doha Bohemia Marsa Malaz Kempinski Bubbles on Two Radisson Blu Champions Marriott Marquis City Center Doha Cigar Lounge Sharq Village & Spa Club 7 La Cigale Crystal Lounge W Doha D’Illusion Gokulam Park

Directory

4448-4800

4494-8888

4484-4444

4035-5555

4428-1428

4419-6100

4425-6666

4428-8888

Jazz At Lincoln Center Doha The St. Regis Doha The Jazz Club Oryx Rotana

Jazz Up Mövenpick Hotel Doha Krossroads Horizon Manor Hotel Lava Lounge InterContinental Doha Le Club Mercure Grand Hotel Level 23 The Ritz-Carlton

Liquidity Crowne Plaza Doha - The Business Park

Dunes The Grand Hyatt

4429-8888

Qube Radisson Blu

4428-1428

Rocca The Grand Hyatt

4448-1234

Shehrazad Radisson Blu

4428-1428

Sky View La Cigale

4428-8888

4402-3333

4429-1111

4445-5444

4484-4444 Spike’s Lounge Doha Golf Club

4496-0777

Splash Oryx Rotana

4402-3333

Strata Lounge InterContinental Doha The City

4015-8888

The Irish Harp Sheraton Doha

4485-4444

The Library Radisson Blu

4428-1428

The Library Bar & Cigar Lounge The Four Seasons

4494-8888

4405-3325

4446-2222

4448-4800

4408-7777

4428-8888

4470-8888 Manhattan Radisson Blu

Pearl Lounge Doha Marriott 4446-0000

4453-5135 Madison Piano Bar La Cigale

Vintage Lounge The St. Regis Doha

4428-1428

4448-1234

4445-5444

Misturado Crowne Plaza Doha - The Business Park

Glo Cocktail Bar Marriott Marquis City Center Doha

4419-6100

Orion Radisson Blu

4428-1428

The Lounge Kempinski Residences & Suites

Habanos The Ritz-Carlton

4484-8000

Oyster Bay & Bar The St. Regis Doha

4446-0105

Vintage Lounge The St. Regis Doha

4446-0105

4015-8888

Paloma InterContinental Doha

4484-4444

Wahm W Doha

4453-5353

Fahrenheit Horizon Manor Hotel

Hive InterContinental Doha The City

4408-7777

32 QH June 2015 - May 25.indd 32

5/25/15 4:27 PM

ARTS & CULTURE

Top Picks

MATHAF Mathaf Collection: Summary, Part 1

THE GRAND HYATT The Corridor: Summer Exhibition 2015

Ongoing: Permanent Exhibitions, First-Floor Galleries. Established in the early 1990s, Mathaf's collection continues to grow and today contains more than 8,000 objects from the Arab world, Iran, Turkey and other regions historically connected to the Arab Peninsula. Summary, Part 1 inaugurates the permanent display of Mathaf’s collection in the second-floor galleries with a first selection of 100 artists to give an overview of its breadth. The curatorial concept looks beyond traditional linear histories of art to highlight diverse attitudes, and contextualizes intellectual production within multiple modernities. For more information visit www.mathaf.org.qa.

Now Open: The Grand Hyatt has partnered with locally-based Australian artist Pip Hoy to launch The Corridor, a concept that supports the local art community in Qatar as part of the Hyatt Thrive initiative. It’s a unique grassroots gallery space for locally-based artists who wish to exhibit their work to the public and international visitors. The event of The Corridor will be the Summer Exhibition 2015, made up of a group exhibition curated by Pip Hoy. Artists who would like to participate in this landmark event for an opportunity to display their artworks can email noha.belhaj@hyatt.com.

ANIMA GALLERY A2 Anima Annual Group Exhibition

Photo credit: Qatar Museums

Until June 13: Parcel 17-30, La Croissette, PortoArabia, The Pearl-Qatar. A2 showcases artworks by 13 young, innovative artists from the MENA region. The participating artists have been carefully selected by a committee of artists, curators and collectors. Opening hours are Sun-Thurs, 10:00 a.m. till 7:00 p.m. For more information call 3377-1370, email art@animagallery.com or visit www.animagl.com.

VCUQATAR Community Classes

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

QATAR MUSEUMS Ismail Azzam: For Them

Until Aug 31: Qatar Museums Gallery, Building 10, Katara. This exhibition will showcase Ismail Azzam’s distinctive portraits of painters and sculptors who have made a significant contribution to Arab art, with the entire body of work created exclusively for this show in Doha. For more information visit www.qm.org.qa

33 QH June 2015 - May 25.indd 33

5/25/15 4:27 PM

ARTS & CULTURE

Art Ignites By Ujwala Thirumurthy Selected photography by Shaad Fotos Additional images courtesy of Qatar Museums

Where the imagination finds space to flourish, sparks of creativity will fly. This is the catalyst behind the opening of Qatar Museums’ latest innovative hub – The Fire Station. A place where burgeoning artists can find a platform for their work, its newly-launched Artist in Residence Program is the latest conduit for creative expression in Qatar. QH takes a tour.

icture this. A fire station that once was, is now a hub for creative exchange. A space that was once used by people to save lives is now a space that will bring to life many inspiring works of art by promoting and educating local artists. The Civil Defence Building (commonly known as the old Fire Station) in Doha has now been renovated by Qatar Museums (QM) to host its much-awaited Artist in Residence program on the premises. Anum Bashir, Correspondence and Communications Officer for the program, spoke to QH about the inspiration behind the concept, and how it came into being.“This program is the vision of HE Sheikha

Colourful works of art light up the space's Garage Gallery

Al Mayassa bint Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, Chairperson of Qatar Museums. It’s an initiative to preserve a profound part of the architectural landscape of Qatar, yet giving it a creative function that will benefit the community and the country at large”, she highlights. To honour the heritage and traditions of the past while embracing the future, QM has preserved the original façade of the building, recycled many features allowing the integrity of the original structure to remain intact. “The space is designed to give it a raw, industrial feel with a minimalist set-up to maintain the ambiance that once was the

fire station,” says Anum, who is excited to see the program take off to such a good start. The Artist in Residence initiative seems to be the perfect platform to instill a sense of belonging within the artist community – a space to express themselves through their work. Scheduled to commence in September 2015, the course will span a period of nine months and will initially include 20 artists from a range of different disciplines, including art, photography, design, architecture and other fields. The residency program will first be open to local Qatari artists and residents of Qatar and

34 QH June 2015 - May 25.indd 34

5/25/15 4:27 PM

The Fire Station's Correspondence and Communications Officer, Anum Bashir explains the concept of the Artist in Residence Program

The Station's 555 exhibition pays homage to the building's iconic roots

The Fire Station, which was built back in 1982, served the community for 30 years until the last fire engine departed in December 2012. Today, it’s a space being used effectively for a highly collaborative venture, and hopes to bring together aspiring, creative artists from varying fields such as filmmaking to sculpting. at a later stage to regional artists. It also offers weekly mentoring programs, apart from access to QM’s museums, and special lectures. Over 100 applications have been received and are subject to a screening process for the final admission to the course. “Qatar seems to have been loaning or buying pieces of art from the rest of the world, but it’s time that we did some of our own,” Anum explains. “The program is an effective way to produce works of art in-house and by home-grown artists, which will speak volumes about the country’s leading initiatives in the field of art.” She goes on to tell us: “The building houses 24 studios and a gallery space for exhibitions and community interaction. We currently have children’s

workshops that are conducted here, and it’s a great way to introduce them to the world of creativity – and we are very pleased with the response.” QM aims to engage with as many local institutions and educational organizations to help benefit the artist community, such as the VCUQatar art school, Education City, and Katara that are already under the banner. An open studio day is also planned where the public will be invited to watch sculptors and painters at work and view how art is made. “For a healthy, sustainable society, every sector including art and culture is a key nugget in the development of a country,” Anum divulges. “In line with the Qatar National Vision of 2030, the program strives to support and promote arts, creativity and heritage.”

While the new building has preserved many of the original features, the renovated areas will include a café, restaurant, book shop, art supply shop, cinema and other facilities for artists. The Artist in Residence program follows this simple motto: Inspire, Create, Engage, Educate. And with a spirited and dynamic arts centre to support this motto, there’s no doubt the Fire Station will create a space that offers an indigenous, local approach to creativity and artistic production. In short, it promises to be an oasis of art and culture in the growing architectural landscape of Qatar. n To learn more about The Fire Station and its Artist in Residence program email contact@firestation.org.qa, or visit www.firestation.org.qa.

35 QH June 2015 - May 25.indd 35

5/25/15 4:27 PM

ARTS & CULTURE pictures online and developed and changed my style over time.” Sitting in Emre’s family living room, we are treated to Turkish coffee and tea and he begins to show the huge portfolio of drawings he’s amassed over just three years of work. “Actually I don’t like this picture, it’s no good.” Claims Emre as he shows a near perfect depiction of his favourite artist, Justin Timberlake. When pushed on why he doesn’t like the perfect likeness he offers a surprisingly frank response. “My style has developed in such a way that my pictures have to be super-realistic. Although, I guess it looks perfect to some, I have very high standards and can be a harsh critic, but I know that’s the only way I’ll improve and develop my art.” Emre Suner's hyper-realistic sketches are earning accolades for the young prodigy

Currently Emre is juggling the responsibilities of studying for his IGCSE’S, while also creating stunning art pieces. “My parents have always told me to study; along with encouraging my creative side, I am very lucky.” It does mean that for now, most of Emre’s creations are started and completed late at night. “Once I’ve finished my studies in the evening I usually start drawing quite late – it’s a cool way to relax.” One thing that’s evident in this young man is his modesty and focus on getting his work out to the largest possible audience, turning to social media to get his work seen. “Social media has always been a major part of my life, so it was a natural progression to share my work with other people. In the next year I’m really looking to get my YouTube channel up and running, posting more videos of my work.” I then ask Emre if he would ever like his work sold or shown in a gallery, with the young Turk offering an interesting response. “For now, I don’t want my work in a gallery or sold to anyone. This work is a piece of me. Right now, I want this just to be fun.”

Reaching For

The Stars By Rodger Gillen Photography by Shaad Fotos

QH talks with Emre Suner, the 16-year-old Doha artist who’s taking the internet by storm with his hyper-realistic drawings. “I’m pretty sure Taylor Swift has seen this picture.” Welcome to the world of Emre Suner, a young man with an incredible talent to draw hyper-realistic

pictures of some of the world’s most famous people. The Turkish artist is only 16 but already can boast over 112,000 Instagram followers and growing. His drawings, posted via Instagram under the alias of ‘Mr_Creative’, feature the likes of Justin Timberlake, Taylor Swift and Ed Sheeran and have gained the Doha resident worldwide acclaim. Emre’s journey into art started only a few years ago but the charismatic artist points to social media being a major influence on his early creations. “I’ve been drawing as a kid, but Instagram really helped me grow creatively. I really started from posting in 2012

Talk then turns to the portfolio of his work, which seems to have two opposing themes of nature and celebrity. “It’s not been a conscious decision to work in these areas. I guess celebrities feature heavily in my work, because they’re everywhere and are so prominent in my life.” Pondering the nature aspect of his portfolio, he notes “Lately I’ve been drawing universe and space for some reason, I guess that’s linked with celebrities and standing out.” As my time with Emre comes to an end he grandly reveals his favourite piece of work. An ultra-realistic picture of Taylor Swift from her video ‘Style’, combining a personal note to the American star and her body painted as a galaxy, “Some people close to Taylor re-Tweeted the picture via Twitter, including the director of the video and the male lead. I am sure she’s seen my work.” A big smile runs across the young artist’s face. As I leave his home, you cannot help but have a huge amount of respect for the modesty and belief of this young man. Leaving me in no doubt that it’s only a matter of time before we hear more from the world of Emre Suner. To learn more about Emre’s artworks and to see his latest creations follow him on Instagram at Mr_Creative. n

36 QH June 2015 - May 25.indd 36

5/25/15 4:27 PM

Andrew Garfield as Spiderman

Bryan Cranston as Breaking Bad's Walter White

Jonny Depp as Captain Jack Sparrow

Captain America actor Chris Evans

Actress Jennifer Lawrence

Performer Justin Timberlake

Model Cara Delevingne

This Despicable Me Minion is showing his love for Captain America!

This drawing of singer Taylor Swift drew the attention of the star on Instagram

37 QH June 2015 - May 25.indd 37

5/25/15 4:27 PM

ARTS & CULTURE

Listings

Museum Guide

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

QH RECOMMENDS

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

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

MATHAF Wael Shawky: Cabaret Crusades and Other Stories

Until Aug 16: Ground floor galleries. Egyptian artist Wael Shawky produces spectacular film series based on literature and historical narratives, using a visual language that mixes fictional storytelling and documentary styles. This exhibition presents two newly completed film trilogies, each inspired by stories and scripts of literature; Cabaret Crusades (2010-2014) draws on Amin Maalouf’s novel The Crusades through Arab Eyes (1983) while Al Araba Al Madfuna (2012-2015) collages the stories of Mohamed Mustagab with the artist’s experience living in Upper Egypt. Over fifty ceramic and glass marionettes from the Cabaret Crusades, and drawings from both series share insight on the making of the films. For more information visit www.mathaf.org.qa.

ONE OF A KIND QATAR MUSEUMS Now Open: The Fire Station

Ongoing: The renovated Civil Defence Building, known locally as Doha’s Fire Station, has recently been transformed to host a new artists-in-residence program. Fire Station: Artists in Residence fulfills a key part of Qatar Museum’s commitment to nurturing emerging talent by offering local artists opportunities to develop best practice by providing a platform for the exchange of ideas. The artists-inresidence program, due to open later in 2015, will support local artists by providing 20 studios and gallery spaces. For more information visit www.firestation.org.qa.

QATAR PHILHARMONIC ORCHESTRA Beethoven’s 5th & 6th Symphonies June 6: Building 16, Opera House, Katara. In their last performance before the summer break, Oleg Caetani will conduct the QPO in Ludwig van Beethoven’s Symphony No. 6 in F Major, Op.68, Pastorale, and Symphony No. 5 in C Minor, Op. 67. Show starts at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are QR 75-QR 200 and can be purchased online at tickets.virginmegastore.me, at any Virgin Megastore outlet, or directly at the Katara Opera House. For more information visit www.qatarphilharmonicorchestra.org.

online! See us arhappening.com www.qat

MUSEUM OF ISLAMIC ART Marvelous Creatures: Animal Fables In Islamic Art

Until July 11: Special Exhibitions Gallery, 1st Floor. This exhibition focuses on the real and mythical animals that appear in the legends, tales and fables of the Islamic world. Divided into the natural quadrants of earth, air, fire and water, these marvelous creatures introduce timeless stories such as the well-known and beloved classics Shahnameh, Kalilawa Dimna, and The Thousand and One Nights. The variety of objects presented in this exhibition – manuscripts, textiles, ceramics, jewelry, glass and metalwork – ranging from the 10th to the 19th centuries, demonstrates the enduring appeal of these characters and stories across diverse cultures. Entry is free. For more information call 4422-4444 or visit www.mia.org.qa.

Qajar Women: Images Of Women In 19th Century Iran

Ongoing: Temporary Exhibitions Gallery, 4th Floor. This exhibition demonstrates the centrality of women in the artistic expression of 19th century Iran and how it continues to inspire contemporary artists. The most popular representations of the Qajar era have been of male sovereigns, whose life-size portraits exaggerate masculinity to depict power. Yet this era also saw a period of artistic modernization in Iran, particularly in paintings and photography, in which depictions of women became essential elements of the scenes. Showcasing women at the court, and in private, alongside images of female musicians and aristocratic women, this exhibition explores rarely-told narratives of the Qajar artistic tradition. Free entry. For more information call 4422-4444 or visit www.mia.org.qa.

The Fire Station & Garage Gallery

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

ALRIWAQ DOHA

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

QMA Gallery

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

EVERY WEEK IAID Contemporary Dance For Ladies

Fri & Mon: Hilal St., Al-Tadamon Signal, D-Ring Road. Contemporary Dance is a modern version of ballet that incorporates expressive movement, improvisation and physical coordination. Contemporary dance is a deconstruction of ballet and modern dance forms – even though it draws from the methods of both. Considered a ‘concert’ dance it combines the elements of discipline and focus. Students will be encouraged to push new boundaries, discover versatility, and minimize tension in the search for clarity and fluidity. For more information call 4432-0974/4441-1234, visit www.iaidonline.org, or email enquire@iaidonline.org.

38 QH June 2015 - May 25.indd 38

5/25/15 4:27 PM

QH June 2015 - May 25.indd 39

5/25/15 4:27 PM

QH June 2015 - May 25.indd 40

5/25/15 4:27 PM

COMMUNITY

Top Picks

FANAR ISLAMIC CULTURAL CENTER Blue Mosque Tour Ongoing: Sign up for a unique tour around Qatar’s state mosque with an emphasis on the aesthetic interior and its history. Visitors will be bused from Fanar to the mosque and back, where a traditional Arabic dinner will follow the evening prayer. From 3:00 p.m. till 7:00 p.m. For more information or to register, email info@fanar.gov.qa.

MUSEUM OF ISLAMIC ART Ramadan Summer Camps 2015

June 28-July 2: MIA Education Building. Join in for a week-long summer camp looking at Islamic Art. Each day children will study a different aspect of art, based on MIA’s exceptional collection of objects spanning 1,400 years and three continents. Includes geometry, maps, astrolabes, calligraphy and printmaking and the subjects they support (mathematics, geography, science, Islamic studies and history). Open for 5-7 year-olds and 8-11 year-olds. Registration fee is QR 600. For more information or to register visit www.qm.org.qa/education.

DOHA SCOTTISH DANCING CLUB Dance Classes

June 1, 8 & 15: Doha English Speaking School. Those with an interest in participating in one of Scotland’s most traditional forms of dance can join the Doha Scottish Dancing Club for lessons. Classes are held from 7:00 p.m. till 9:00 p.m. on Mondays every month. The cost is QR 20 per class and there is no additional registration fee or membership requirement. Bring soft shoes and a bottle of water to stay hydrated. For more information email dohascottishdancing@gmail.com, or request to join the club’s Facebook page.

IAID Zumba For Kids KATARA Beach & Watersports

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

Tues & Thurs: Hilal St., Al-Tadamon Signal, D-Ring Road. Zumba is the latest dance fitness craze and is spreading fast worldwide. This upbeat workout is fantastic for kids and adults alike. Zumba is an exhilarating class filled with good feelings and partylike fun that’s perfect for kids as they learn how to move and engage in activities while exercising and discovering how being fit can also be fun. For more information call 4432-0974/4441-1234, visit www.iaidonline.org, or email enquire@iaidonline.org.

41 QH June 2015 - May 25.indd 41

5/25/15 4:28 PM

COMMUNITY

42 QH June 2015 - May 25.indd 42

5/25/15 4:28 PM

By Shahmim Akram

Ramadan kareem, iftar, suhoor, Garangao, Taraweeh. Confused… but want to learn more? Keep reading for QH’s beginner’s guide to the Holy Month of Ramadan.

Abdul Wahhab Mosque. Traditionally, before the era of clocks, the cannon was set off at sunset so that everyone would know that it was time to break the fast.

amadan is considered to be the holiest month in the Islamic calendar. It’s the time period within which the Qur’an was revealed to Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). Fasting was later ordained as one of the obligatory five pillars of Islam, and Muslims have to fast from dawn to dusk, consuming no food or drink between these hours.

Children can get involved too by making Ramadan Kareem cards to hand out to their friends, or by making small iftar packages of dates, water and candy to be given to neighbours or to local charities. They can also take part in Garangao which takes place on the 14th night of Ramadan– some local malls may plan a Garangao event. During this time, local children dress up in traditional clothing and head out into the neighbourhood singing the Garangao song, and are given sweets by the neighbours.

It sounds like a hardship, but for Muslims Ramadan is a time of celebration – family and community ties are strengthened through the sharing of food and good deeds. Muslims also try to reflect upon their spiritual life and set goals such as reading the Qur’an at least once in the month, increasing charitable actions, and being more considerate in their words and behaviour towards others.

In Qatar, Ramadan is an integral part of community life and there will be huge changes made to accommodate for the fasting period. Working hours are reduced, and most workplaces shut in the afternoon and open again in the evening. Reduced operating hours will have an impact upon services, including banks and restaurants, so you’re advised to check opening times before heading out.

This year Ramadan is expected to begin around June 18, and when it’s officially announced there will be an air of excitement as Muslims rejoice the beginning of the month of fasting. They will wake up before dawn to take their pre-dawn meal known as suhoor, recite the usual morning prayer, and then will fast the whole day until evening. At sunset they will break their fast with an evening meal known as iftar. In addition to the usual five daily prayers there are also Taraweeh prayers which occur at the same time as the evening prayer and last about an hour. You can share Ramadan moments with your colleagues and neighbours – wish them a generous Ramadan by saying ‘Ramadan Kareem’, give small gifts of dates or chocolate, or invite them to a share an iftar meal at your home. If you’re invited to an iftar then make sure to arrive on time and take a gift of dates, fruits or Arab pastries. The breaking of the fast is a special moment for Muslims and iftar is a joyous occasion, when family and friends share a table and meal together – meaningful moments after a long day of fasting. You can also enjoy the hustle and bustle of Ramadan at the souqs and malls, or by enjoying an iftar meal at a Ramadan tent, which is a uniquely Arab way of breaking the fast with elaborate menus and local entertainment. You can watch the ceremonial cannon at the state mosque, Sheikh Muhammed Ibn

You should also be careful on the roads as they are even more busy and hectic than usual as residents head home to iftar or to the mosque for Taraweeh prayers – try to avoid making journeys in the early evening. Most importantly, you should know that it’s illegal in Qatar to publicly consume food and drink, including chewing gum. This law applies to all individuals – non-Muslims and Muslims who are not fasting. You cannot eat food or drink water even at work; however some workplaces may be flexible in providing screenedoff private areas. The majority of restaurants will not be open for lunch although you may be able to get a takeaway service. This may seem quite restrictive to new residents, but it’s part of the law of the land.Try to look beyond the rules to the people, share the month of fasting and you will gain a deeper understanding of Ramadan and a richer experience of your life in Qatar. n If you want to know more about Ramadan, or Islam generally, then contact the Qatar Islamic Cultural Center at www.fanar.gov.qa. Known as Fanar, it’s a government organization, which aims to act as a guiding light to the world – they have information about Islam and Arabian cultural traditions, and plan educational events during Ramadan. Ramadan events are also held at Katara (www.katara.net), and Aspire (www.lifeinaspire.qa.)

43 QH June 2015 - May 25.indd 43

5/25/15 4:28 PM

COMMUNITY

For The

Love Of Giving By Sarah Al Motairi Selected photography by Shaad Fotos Additional images courtesy of Sophie Jago and Erin Quigley

QH is honoured to bring to you two inspiring young ladies from Qatar’s very own Doha College. Year 12 students, Erin Quigley and Sophie Jago show us how hearts of generosity, coupled with a little hard work and a whole lot of care can change the lives of many deserving children in Nepal.

rmed with grace and poise, donning an almost surreal level of maturity, Erin and Sophie welcomed me to Doha College. Before we sat down for the interview, I knew I was about to conduct one of my most admirable interviews yet. The Quigley-Jago Challenge was brought to life in 2012. Its mission: to raise funds that will assist in the development of schools in Nepal.

The Duke of Edinburgh Award Erin and Sophie began their journeys of youth leadership with the Duke of Edinburgh Award (DofE). The DofE gives young people, ages 14 to 24, the opportunity to develop skills for life and work, fulfill their potential and have a brighter future. The DofE program has three levels: Bronze (three months of commitment), Silver (six months of commitment) and Gold (one year of commitment). A DofE Award is achieved upon completion of four sections: volunteering, physical, skills and expedition. Each participant has the choice of how they want to earn each level. “To achieve our Bronze award, we participated in a desert walk,” Erin proudly states. “We knew that upon earning our Silver we would visit Nepal, so we decided to raise money before traveling,” shares Sophie. Erin and Sophie continue, “Our aim was to raise QR 1,000 before leaving for Nepal. We ended up raising QR 15,000 by March 2013.” They approached the school in order to find ways to raise money, create their own walks, create fundraising events and find sponsors. World Challenge assists the girls by developing trips and routes for them.

The Quigley-Jago Challenge: Erin Quigley (left) and Sophie Jago are changing the world, one good deed at a time

Doha College helped set up the Quigley-Jago Challenge. “It’s set up as a committee. Students lead it and the responsibility is passed down to the year

44 QH June 2015 - May 25.indd 44

5/25/15 4:28 PM

below at the beginning of every academic year. We have set up a Quigley-Jago Award that allows for students to win the trophy once part of the QuigleyJago Committee,” says Sophie. Erin continues: “There’s a selection process to get into the committee, once part of the committee we monitor the efforts of participants, and committee members are awarded based on the effort they put in.” As with all charitable work, there’s always some form of motivation accompanying one’s actions. “When we did the DofE Award, we knew we would be visiting Nepal the following year. The year above us had already visited that year and the photos spoke to us. When we were blessed to visit, our inspirational foundation was laid,” they genuinely share. They both chime in and continue, “We were able to meet the children; the nicest children you’ll ever meet – and so generous. They didn’t have glass in their windows, no desks, but they were happy.” Sitting atop a hill, the road to the Hillside Academy was but a rickety path leading to a field below. Sophie admirably shares, “The children didn’t want us to slip so they held our hands going down. At one point, one of the kids had kicked a football into a stream and one of the boys jumped in, uniform and all, to get the ball.” Erin and Sophie share that the humble nature of the children and the people of Nepal is what captured their hearts. “Being able to help people that wouldn’t otherwise have the things that we are able to provide them with is our motivation,” says Erin. During their previous visit to Hillside Academy they were able to assist with painting the school, as well as providing desks, benches, stationary, laptops and Wi-Fi. “If we can help the kids have a better education that will, in turn, lead to better jobs where they can provide for their families in the future, then we have succeeded in our goal,” says Sophie. On April 25, 2015 Nepal was hit terribly with a 7.8 magnitude earthquake killing over 8,000 people and injuring more than 14,500 people. The Quigley-Jago Challenge has been quick to work on raising funds to assist with the aftermath of the earthquake. “We recently found out that three of the children we met on our visit to Nepal had died in the earthquake. Sad news for all,” they say. Erin and Sophie helped to equip Hillside Academy. Their goal is to now build a school from the floor up in order to avoid the school being shut down due to unforeseen rental issues. “We have teamed up with the school’s charity committee and we are working on donations within Doha College as well as outside contributions,” says Sophie. “Our ultimate goal was to raise QR 75,000 by June 2016 but we have met our goal already, raising a total of QR 73,634 already – one year earlier than anticipated,” say the girls. Erin and Sophie hope to visit Nepal next summer and assist with the building and equipping of Hillside Academy.

Future Plans Erin and Sophie have their hearts set on Nepal. “We’re looking to raise more money in collaboration with other schools that are part of international awards so we can continue to build schools in Nepal.” They are currently in talks with a gentleman in Nepal and are working on distributing their

Sophie and Erin connect with a young Nepalese student whose se education will be furthered becau of their support

from staff and The girls receive a warm welcome Dada School. students at Nepal's Shree Thapa

current donations to help build a school there. “We will continue to raise money through car boot sales, selling drinks, and other events.” Erin and Sophie also aspire to participate in many more Duke of Edinburgh events. The girls have been active in providing events and fundraisers since 2012. Last year, Erin and Sophie organized a game night as a way to fundraise, as well as creating fun games such as setting up a tent while blindfolded challenge, and packaging eggs in newspaper and tape and dropping them without breaking challenge. They have their hearts set on ensuring the Quigley-Jago Challenge has an endless lifespan with Doha College and aim to hand down the responsibility next year as they will be graduating in September 2016. For more information on how to contribute to the Quigley-Jago Challenge please contact Erin Quigley or Sophie Jago at Quigley-jago@hotmail.com, equigley@dohacollege.com.qa, or sjago@dohacollege.com.qa. You can also follow them on Twitter @QJChallenge. For more information on the Duke of Edinburgh Award visit www.dofe.org. n

45 QH June 2015 - May 25.indd 45

5/25/15 4:28 PM

COMMUNITY

Nicola Simpson with the staff who e cared for her at the National Centr for Cancer Care & Research

Everyday Heroes By Ashlee Starratt Images courtesy of Nicola Simpson and Sandee Thompson

June 7 is National Cancer Survivors Day, and QH was privileged to hear the incredible stories of two women whose strength and will to never give up offers hope to those currently fighting their own battle with the disease.

icola Simpson was on a trip home to South Africa when her friend saved her life. She had noticed an unusual lump in her left breast but put it in the back of her mind to get checked when she went back to Doha. Her best friend urged her not to wait and to have it immediately looked into while she was home. Doctors discovered a 7cm tumour and cancer cells in her lymph nodes. “I remember so clearly going to the radiologist who was doing the ultrasound and mammogram, putting on the gown and sitting waiting, chatting with a woman I had met there,” she recalls. “I was hoping to get out as soon as possible as I had a lot to do before I flew. Then, during the ultrasound, the radiologist said ‘I need to call the doctor’.” After flying to Cape Town and having a biopsy done, her worst fears were confirmed as her doctor told her “Nicola, I don’t have good news for you.” Upon her return to Doha, Nicola – a trainer/ facilitator at Hamad Medical Corporation – began an intensive round of treatment that included chemotherapy, radiation and mastectomy. Throughout the ordeal she never lost hope, or the will to survive. “I was not going to change because there was a new, unwelcome visitor – but I was going to look at my purpose…take pride in who I am,” she says. “Not some poor cancer patient. Because we do look at those who have cancer and

do feel a depth of sadness for having to go through this experience.” Canadian expat Sandee Thompson also had her life touched by the disease. A language instructor at the College of the North Atlantic’s Qatar branch, Sandee discovered she had early-stage breast cancer at the age of 48. What followed was a lumpectomy, 16 rounds of radiation and eventually, this fall, a bilateral mastectomy – all the while maintaining an inspiring outlook on life. “First and foremost, I am alive,” she says. “What a gift! This journey has brought amazing people into my world and in all honesty, I don't fight things that are out of my control. Instead, I become as informed, proactive and community-oriented as I possibly can.” Both Sandee and Nicola underwent treatment here in Doha and for each the care they received was second-to-none. “I was surrounded by a community of people who supported me and recognized me,” recalls Nicola. “The care I received at Al Amal (NCCCR- National Centre for Cancer Care & Research) was incredible. I had nurses who would come by while having chemo (who had been in my training workshops) just to say hello, hold my hand, give me hugs, draw smiley faces in information booklets… Doctors who would fit me into appointments, so I could still work. ‘This bed is reserved for Nicola’ – [was] a sign on the bed in day-care when I arrived for chemo. The security guard always made sure I had a parking right in front of the hospital.” For Sandee increasing the public’s level of awareness about the disease is a legacy that she’s adamant to take on. “This disease needs people to talk about it. Information is power and it takes the stigma away. Breasts are body parts just like knees and legs and livers! We aren't afraid or embarrassed to talk about them when something goes awry! With support and a positive attitude, anything is surmountable! Breast cancer is real and accounts for more than 20 per cent of all cancer in Qatar. Talk about it and encourage the women you love to have a mammogram done. Early detection means we live.”

Sandee didn't let a cancer diagnosis stop her from seeing the world

Sandee Thompson has taken her cancer support group to the water with the Doha Wireless Warriors

And living they both are, fully and happily, survivors on the road back to health and to the level of fitness they once lost to the disease. “I blog about it regularly in Facebook and answer any and all questions people ask,” explains Sandee. “I had tried to start a dragon boat group for survivors 18 months ago to no avail…but now? The Doha Wireless Warriors are a viable support group getting stronger each week. Feel free to check out our Facebook page and come out for a paddle with us!” For Nicola, reclaiming an active lifestyle has a deeper cause. “Right now I’m training to accomplish my third marathon since completing treatment in July last year,” she says proudly. “I ran in Myanmar in November to raise funds and create awareness of kids with cancer in Zimbabwe, last month I ran the Paris Marathon and at the end of next month I will run a 42km race in Victoria Falls. Why? Because I can, I will, watch me. I am in control, not the cancer. You have the power within you.” The National Cancer Program is your guide to cancer care in Qatar. For more information visit www.ncp.qa. To get involved with the Doha Wireless Warriors find them on Facebook and give them a follow, or email Sandee Thompson at sandee_t@yahoo.com. n

46 QH June 2015 - May 25.indd 46

5/25/15 4:28 PM

QH June 2015 - May 25.indd 47

5/25/15 4:28 PM

COMMUNITY

Heights For Hope

Mostafa Salameh greets young fans at Burla Public School

Margarita Zuniga trains on the rocky outcroppings of Qatar's Zikreet region Photo credit: Jessie Palanca

By Ashlee Starratt Selected images courtesy of Mostafa Salameh and Margarita Zuniga

This summer, world-renowned mountaineer Mostafa Salameh will lead a team of climbers to the peaks of South America in support of access to education for Palestinian youth. Qatar resident Margarita Zuniga will join him on the expedition. QH learns more about the Climb for the Children of Gaza.

e was the first Jordanian to scale Mt. Everest, he’s completed the world’s Seven Summits challenge, and he’s left his mark on the fight for cancer with his From the Lowest Point to the Highest Point for Cancer campaign. Now Mostafa Salameh will lead an envoy of 18 Jordanians, plus Qatar’s Margarita Zuniga, on a two-month excursion to trek up Mount Huayna Potosí in Bolivia and then Machu Picchu in Peru from June 25-July 9. The cause is one that’s close to his heart – Climb for the Children of Gaza (C4CG) and all funds raised by each climber will be donated to support education programs at United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) schools in Gaza. Mostafa was in Qatar at the end of April, speaking to 800 students at the Burla Public School and to an audience at The Youth Company. We had the opportunity to meet up with the humble mountaineer during his short visit to learn more about his humanitarian effort. “Education is my story,” he says. “This is where I came from and this is how I did it. I want to inspire the youth in the Middle East, because 70 per cent of the youth in the Middle East,

they won’t have that opportunity to go and study in great universities because it’s expensive.” The route through Bolivia and Peru will take the team through the Cordillera Real, the Tiwinaka Ruins, Lake Titicaca, the Sacred Valley of the Incas and the Runkurakay Pass. Each climber who makes the journey must raise $10,000 USD for charity with proceeds going to UNRWA to provide basic items such as desks, school supplies and reading materials, and cover other scholastic costs such as tuition. For climber and proactive Qatar citizen Margarita Zuniga, fund-raising and activism have long been a part of her personal ethos. “[We] want to make a difference and learn from the fundraising experience,” she tells us. “Our hope is to start a dialogue with the children of Gaza at UNRWA schools, establish long-lasting friendships, understanding, hope and empowerment on both sides.

The group's trek will take them to the heights of Peru's Machu Picchu.

We plan to send five to ten-second messages on our Instagram account, (#c4cgaza #qgadha) and include the #UNWRA and #mtfr_qtr hashtags, to start the dialogue and raise awareness. We ask the community of Qatar to upload messages of hope to the children of Gaza, letting them know we are aware of the situation and are here to help fund education which is essential." After his South American journey, Mostafa Salameh will mark another milestone as he aims to be the first Arab Muslim to forge a new route across Antarctica to reach the South Pole in January of 2016.“It will be three times harder than Everest,” he admits. “First of all you’re walking at least a marathon every day, with your sledge behind you at 120 kilos. You walk in 24-hour daylight and the temperature – which is not like Everest – is ice all the way. You just see white all around you. It’s definitely going to be tough.” The driving force behind Mostafa’s desire to break new ground is simple: “I wanted to really make sure

the whole thing is going to be about an Arab Muslim who is achieving something, and a good image of Islam. To inspire this generation of Arab Muslims – to show that we are able, because we don’t have adventurers, we don’t have people who have been there yet…so we need to approach it in a different way.” To learn more about the Climb for the Children of Gaza initiative and how you can donate to support the journey visit www.c4cgaza.com, www.justgiving.com/Margarita-Zuniga, and www.unrwa.org. To discover more about Mostafa Salameh’s upcoming expedition to the South Pole head to www.mostafasalemeh.com. n

48 QH June 2015 - May 25.indd 48

5/25/15 4:28 PM

QH June 2015 - May 25.indd 49

5/25/15 4:28 PM

COMMUNITY

SUMMER CAMP SCHEDULE (JUNE 28 - JULY 16)

For very small children there are two sections of Art Fun classes…

Step Into Summer

By Melanie Isakowitz Images courtesy of VCUQatar

Looking for summer activities to keep your kids and teens entertained? We’ve lined up the ultimate list of creative Summer Camps at VCUQatar to make this June/July an experience of a lifetime for the young Picassos in your family!

o you’re planning your family’s summer schedule and are looking for a place with endless opportunities for intellectual and personal growth, where the young generation can examine the world from many different perspectives? VCUQatar should top your list! Based in Education City, the university is offering a wide range of sizzling art and design summer

courses that bring a fun, hands-on educational experience to children and high school students of various age groups. We spoke with Outreach & Community Class Manager Annette WendlingWilleke to learn more.

“Taught by accomplished local and international artists and instructors, our Summer Camps give kids and teenagers the opportunity to pursue their passion in art, design and craft areas, while making friends and getting a taste of life on a college campus,” she says. “According to your age group, you can choose from eight intensive art and design programs – one week for younger children, two weeks for teenagers and three weeks for high school students ages 16 and above. Most of the programs not only offer an intense classroom experience but also include a museum or gallery visit and will culminate with an exhibit of students’ artwork to be shared with family and friends.”

ART FUN ‘A’: MY COLOURFUL GARDEN For children ages 4 & 5 In this course, children will explore colour, different media, the works of famous artists, and have lots of fun creating their own art gardens and creatures. Timings: June 28-July 2, 9:00 a.m. till 12 noon. No lunch provided. Location: VCUQatar, Room 215 Cost: QR 830 Instructor: Bridget Dunn is an art teacher and illustrator originally from New Zealand. Her specialty is art education for early years and primary-aged children and she’s passionate about promoting art in the community. ART FUN ‘B’: ABORIGINAL ART For children ages 6 & 7 Students explore a variety of media and participate in fun and creative art activities. In addition to a group exhibition at the end of the week, (which is open to family and friends), highlights include drawing, painting, collage, and experimentation with different art materials. Timings: June 28-July 2, 9:00 a.m. till 1:15 p.m., including break. No lunch provided. Location: VCUQatar, Room 216 Cost: QR 1,100 Instructor: Verity Watkins is an artist and art teacher from the UK. Her main focus is the exploration of media with texture, colour, pattern and composition.

There are also two sections of Art Exploration classes for high school students… ART EXPLORATION ‘A’: AFRICAN ART For children ages 8-10 Students explore a variety of media and participate in fun and creative art activities. In addition to a group exhibition at the end of the week, which is open to family and friends, highlights include drawing, painting, collage, experimentation with different art materials Timings: July 5-9, 9:00 a.m. till 1:15 p.m., including break. No lunch provided. Location: VCUQatar, Room 216 Cost: QR, 1,100 Instructor: Verity Watkins

50 QH June 2015 - May 25.indd 50

5/25/15 4:28 PM

ART EXPLORATION B: MINI MASTERPIECES For children ages 11 & 12 Students explore a variety of media and participate in fun and creative art activities. In addition to a group exhibition at the end of the week, highlights include drawing, painting, collage, experimentation with different art materials, and a museum visit. Timings: July 12-16, 9:00 a.m. till 1:15 p.m., including break. No lunch provided. Location: VCUQatar, Room 216 Cost: QR 1,100 Instructor: Verity Watkins

From drawing, painting and collage, kids can let their creative juices flow at VCUQatar

For teens who are more serious about art… CREATIVE DISCOVERY For high school students ages 13-15 This two-week course offers an introduction to art and design through the use of different art materials. Students will be painting, drawing, illustrating, printing, and using computer graphics programs. They’ll do both individual and collaborative work. Through a museum visit, students will also experience a variety of ways to look at and understand works of art. The class will culminate with an exhibit of student work open to family and friends. Timings: July 5-16, 9:00 a.m. till 1:15 p.m., including break. No lunch provided. Location: VCUQatar, Room 255 Cost: QR 2, 125 Instructor: Melanie Buffington, Ph.D., is an Associate Professor of Art Education at VCU in Richmond, Virginia, USA. In her teachings, she strives to use student-centred techniques and create classroom communities that foster democratic learning. Her main forms of art-making currently relate to textiles such as sewing and knitting.

Specifically developed for high school seniors who are considering making art and design their career path… DESIGN INTENSIVE For high school students ages 16 and above This three-week course offers an introduction to art and design through the exploration of multiple media that may include painting, drawing, printing, mixed media, sculpture, dyeing, computer graphics and photography. Daily creative exercises and activities will help build skills in these areas and provide a general overview of the various design fields: fashion design, graphics and interiors, as well as painting, print-making and art history. Museum and gallery visits, along with presentations by practicing artists, will offer new ways to understand

and look at art and related disciplines. The class will culminate with an exhibit of student work to be shared with family and friends. Timings: June 28-July 16, 9:00 a.m. till 1:15 p.m. Location: VCUQatar, Room 390 Cost: QR 3,250 Instructor: Jan Johnston holds a BA in Multidisciplinary Studies from North Carolina State University and her Masters degree in Art Education from VCU in Richmond, Virginia. While at VCURichmond, she worked for four years teaching an Art Foundation/Art Education course, a study-abroad and service course in Guatemala and, most recently, as project manager for a QNRF grant. Jan's current artwork includes watercolour and mixed media.

New this year… EXPERIMENTAL PRINT & COLLAGE WORKSHOP For children ages 10-14 This one-week course offers an introduction to different methods of print-making and collage. Using traditional and non-traditional materials, they’ll explore a variety of different materials. Students will use their collages to create a pop-up artwork as well as a mixed-media piece. Timings: June 28-July 2, 9:00 a.m. till 1:15 p.m., including break. No lunch provided. Location: VCUQatar, Room 255 Cost: QR 1,100 Instructor: Melanie Buffington

FASHION DESIGN PORTFOLIO For high school students ages 15 and above In this course, students learn how to build a dynamic Fashion Portfolio, including a mood-board (showing color palettes, fabrics, and fashion design ideas), design concept development, working drawings and final illustrations. Students will have an opportunity to explore various aspects of fashion design including drawing, painting, and design, but also

different professional areas, such as history, socioeconomics, and culture. Timings: July 5-16, 9:00 a.m. till 1:15 p.m., including break. No lunch provided. Location: VCUQatar, Rooms 266 & 252 Cost: QR 2, 125 Instructor: Yang Soon Ju is from the Republic of Korea. She is an alumnus of VCU in Qatar with a Major in Fashion Design and a minor in Art History. She has experience in watercolour painting, drawing, oil-painting, and fashion illustration for many years. n • Basic materials have to be purchased and brought along for each class by the course participant, as per the list provided for each class. • Unless otherwise noted, all classes offered at VCUQatar are open to both male and females and are taught in English. • Short course descriptions and outlines including a headline for each class, prices, timings and venue, along with information about materials needed and terms and conditions can be reviewed online at www.qatar.vcu.edu/community/summer.

Online Registration: Register and pay securely online (credit card or PayPal) at www.qatar.vcu.edu/community/summer. In-Person Registration: Register and pay in person at VCUQatar between 9:00 a.m. till 12 noon, and 1:00 p.m. till 3:45 p.m., Sunday to Thursday with cash or credit/debit card. Registration for summer programs closes June 20, but as seats are limited, we recommend you sign up as soon as possible. Contact Info: Questions can be directed to awendlingwil@vcu.edu or by calling 4402-0639.

51 QH June 2015 - May 25.indd 51

5/25/15 4:28 PM

SPECIAL PROMOTION

Life After School By Mark Leppard, Principal of Doha College

Its exam season and many of Qatar’s secondary students may not be thinking beyond their next test. In just a few short weeks their focus will turn to their new lives as they take the final steps toward graduation. It’s both an exciting and challenging time – especially for those making the move to university. But, what exactly does come next after all is said and done?

s I walked around Doha College’s secondary campus recently I could feel the students’ excitement build as they consider the next stage in their life journey. University offers new adventures and an opportunity to meet new friends, become immersed in a new culture and learning and possibly live independently for the first time. We require a special set of skills to survive and thrive in the world. Our next generation of adults are navigating through complex systems – learning to set up bank accounts, paying bills, finding internet providers and connecting electricity. For some they are also tackling domestic challenges such as washing and cooking for the first time. It’s important that we remember that the ‘everyday’ to many of us is brand new to others. As a school we look to help

our students confidently make the leap from pupil to independent young adult, offering advice through our experienced tutors and courses in activities as diverse as cooking, to budgeting and planning meals.

Starting university life can mean moving away from home for the first time

It would be remiss not to mention that with the excitement of a new life comes sadness at leaving behind all that is familiar. School can seem like a second home and we often carry the friendships we cemented during these years with us for the rest of our lives. However, it can still be painful to leave this all behind. It can be exacerbated in an environment such as an international school, as many children return to their home countries to begin the next phase of their education. There are ways to overcome the sadness and loneliness of a new home. Doha College, like many schools, has an established alumni program that is designed to help past students maintain and strengthen ties with their peers. The College alumni numbers about 4,500 strong, providing a community that can guide new graduates through university and into the world beyond. LinkedIn university pages are an excellent way for pupils to meet and speak to former students about their experiences. Students can also keep in touch by attending reunions, joining Facebook and Twitter communities, and becoming a mentor. These are all ways to keep the link of familiarity at a time when many other elements in a student’s life are changing. We wish all our school leavers the best of luck in the coming weeks, months and years and we look forward to keeping the lines of communication open. n

Photo credit: Shaad Fotos

52 QH June 2015 - May 25.indd 52

5/25/15 4:28 PM

QH June 2015 - May 25.indd 53

5/25/15 4:28 PM

COMMUNITY

7 Ways To Get Dad More Involved By Jacqueline Bodnar

With international Father’s Day around the corner on June 21, we explore the unique contributions Dads make to co-parenting and nurturing the healthy emotional and social development of a child.

any Moms yearn for the secret on how to get Dad more involved in the day-to-day care of the kids. Not only does it give Mom time for a break, but it shows Dad just how special he is and increases his childcare confidence level. According to the National Fatherhood Initiative in the US – an organization aimed at leading a societywide movement to confront the problem of father absence, children that have fathers involved in their life do significantly better in school, have higher self-esteem and engage less in risky behaviour. Read on for ways that you can get Dad more involved in taking care of the kids.

baths, drive to extra-curricular activities, etc. Mom can also try making a list of everything that needs to be done and give Dad the option of choosing which tasks he’d like to do. • Avoid gate-keeping Many Moms take the reins of raising the kids and try to do it all. Then when they get frustrated they look at Dad and wonder why he’s not more involved. Get Dad involved from the beginning and try not to hover over him. Moms have a tendency to want to step in if Dad is having a difficult time, when it’s better to give him the chance to figure out a solution, which will help him feel more confident later. • Make it enjoyable If children only see Dad as the one that dishes out discipline, then the kids and Dad are really missing out. Moms should try giving Dad plenty of opportunity to do fun activities and not just call him into the picture if there is a discipline problem.

compliment him on his efforts. Many men are working behind the scenes to do things for their family and often those efforts go unnoticed. Dads are often economic providers, teach morals, are role models, playmates and give support to Moms. • Avoid overprotecting Let’s face it, Dads like to play rougher than most Moms are comfortable with. Try to look the other way and let them have some fun instead of overprotecting the kids and putting a stop to their rough-housing. • Team effort Perhaps the most important thing to keep in mind when getting Dad involved is that parenting is a team effort. “Fathers have a unique and irreplaceable role in the life of their child,” says Dr. Canfield, “And we need to encourage and equip them with the tools that they need to excel.” n

• Give praise A great way to get Dad more involved is to recognize what he does and

• Respect differences “Mothers parent differently than fathers,” says Dr. Ken Canfield, founder and president of the US National Center for Fathering, a national organization focused on equipping men to be the involved fathers their children need. He points out that research shows there are distinct differences in the way fathers hold their children, play, talk with and discipline them. It’s important for Mom to not expect Dad to do everything just how she does and to be accepting of his methods. Just because his style is different doesn’t mean it’s harmful or wrong. • Be specific Many women tend to make blanket statements to Dad that they need more ‘help’. That doesn’t give him much direction of what is needed. To get more response Moms should try to be more specific about what it is they would like Dad to do. For example, Mom could state she needs Dad to help more with homework, give

54 QH June 2015 - May 25.indd 54

5/25/15 4:28 PM

QH June 2015 - May 25.indd 55

5/25/15 4:28 PM

COMMUNITY

Listings

Community Guide Australian and New Zealand Business in Qatar Group

QH RECOMMENDS

6651-1892 www.anzbiq.org

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

Doha Players

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

Egyptian Women’s Association 5572-4171

KOREA TAEKWONDO CENTER QATAR Lessons For Kids

Ongoing: Build stamina, skill and strength while learning to master this formidable martial art form. A range of class timings are available to fit into your family’s busy schedule including weekends, after-school and evenings. For more information call 4465-9066.

ONE OF A KIND KATARA Q Talent Store

Now Open: Gate 17, Katara beachside. Q Talent is a local company that focuses on finding, connecting and promoting Qatari talented youth. They provide services for employers who are looking for Qatari talent, while providing opportunities for young artists and entrepreneurs to grow and prosper. The Q Talent store features clothing, books, arts and crafts, perfumes, accessories and more – all designed, produced and created by local young artists. For more information find them on Facebook or visit www.qtalent.com.

QATAR TOASTMASTERS The Art Of Public Speaking

June 6 & 20: Looking to develop communication and leadership skills? Want to build your self-confidence? Look no further than Qatar Toastmasters Club. Master the art of public speaking in a supportive, multicultural group. The club meets on the first and third Sunday of the month, all year round. Meetings are at the Radisson Blu Hotel from 7:00 p.m. till 9:30 p.m. For more information call 5505-5275 or 5572-5293 or visit www.qatartoastmasters.net.

EVERY WEEK DOHA MUMS All-Ages Indoor Swim Group

Saturdays: Join the Doha Mums group for a swim play-date held in an indoor, heated pool every Saturday from 5:00 p.m. till 6:00 p.m. For more information visit www.dohamums.com, or email rsvp@dohamums.com.

DOHA TWEETUPS Monthly Networking

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

IAID Hip-Hop Classes For Kids

Sun, Tues, Wed & Thurs: Hilal St., Al-Tadamon Signal, D-Ring Road. This popular, high-energy urban class uses the latest music combined with movement and choreography inspired by today’s hottest hip-hop tunes. For more information call 4432-0974/4441-1234, visit www.iaidonline.org or email enquire@iaidonline.org.

Modern Jazz For Kids

Sat, Sun, Mon & Wed: Hilal St. Al Tadamon Signal, D-Ring Road. This dynamic class covers the basic step vocabulary and variations of dances commonly used in the musical theatre and commercial entertainment industries. Designed to train students to professional-level standards with technical exercises and exciting routines, children will learn from only the most skilled instructors. For more information call 4432-0974/ 4441-1234, visit www.iaidonline.org, or email enquire@iaidonline.org.

French-Speaking Ladies Group 5559-7467

Indian Women’s Association 4442-4052

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

Red Dotters Qatar

5520-9294 Follow @RedDottersQatar on Twitter

Silver Dhow Association 4435-2598

Turkish Women’s Association www.twaq.org

Tuesday Ladies Group Email: tlgindoha@gmail.com

SASCOM: South Africans In Qatar

www.southafricansinqatar.netfirms.com

Canadians In Qatar

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

56 QH June 2015 - May 25.indd 56

5/25/15 4:28 PM

QH June 2015 - May 25.indd 57

5/25/15 4:29 PM

QH June 2015 - May 25.indd 58

5/25/15 4:29 PM

FOOD & DINING

Top Picks

KEMPINSKI RESIDENCES & SUITES Summer Melon Menu

Daily: Aroma. Executive Chef Vinon Yergu has created a new summer menu with a creative melon twist. Taste delicate melon flavours in appetizers, salads, main courses and desserts. The summer melon menu is available throughout June in Aroma. For more information call 4405-3325, email restaurants.doha@kempinski.com, or visit www.kempinski.com/doha.

THE TORCH DOHA Mediterranean All The Way

Daily: Three Sixty. This beautiful revolving restaurant located on the 47th floor at The Torch Doha, offers panoramic views of the city. Open daily for lunch from 12:00 noon till 3:00 p.m. and for dinner from 7:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4446-5600, or email restaurant.reservations@thetorchdoha.com.

THE GRAND HYATT Farewell Brunch

June 12: The Grill. Join The Grill’s big farewell brunch before the Holy Month of Ramadan. Book a soft beverage brunch for QR 295 or a special beverage brunch for QR 420. For more information call 7798-2400.

W DOHA Dolce Far Niente

MARRIOTT MARQUIS CITY CENTER DOHA Daddy’s Day Out

June 14-17: Crossroads Kitchen. A special treat for a special man. This Father’s Day indulge with Daddy dearest at Crossroads Kitchen over a dinner buffet of delectable cuisine. That’s not all; Daddy’s enjoy 25% off when dining with three people or more! From QR 245. From 6:30 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4419-6100 or visit www.marriottmarquisdohadining.com.

Fridays until Ramadan: La Spiga by Paper Moon. The newest and most Italian antipasti buffet in town! Enjoy a feast of Italian delicacies every Friday at Dolce Far Niente, meaning ‘the sweetness of doing nothing’, with a buffet or a la carte menu, along with an Italian live band for the perfect weekend vibe. QR 95 per person including nonalcoholic beverages. QR 150 per person including a selection of Prosecco, red and white vinos, and Italian suds. From 12:00 noon till 4:00 p.m. Offer not valid during Ramadan.

59 QH June 2015 - May 25.indd 59

5/25/15 4:29 PM

FOOD & DINING

Bella Italia By Ashlee Starratt Photography by Shaad Fotos

As one of Doha’s first and arguably most preeminent five-star Italian restaurants, Porcini at The Ritz-Carlton has held its pride of place for the last 15 years. It’s a spot where regulars go to unwind and indulge, and newcomers to savour and explore its epicurean delights. QH peruses the menu.

here’s an expression heard at many an Italian table, that if a dish is particularly delectable it’s said to have the ‘taste of love’. After all, home is where the heart is and there’s nothing that cures what ails us like a home-cooked meal patiently prepared with love and simple, fresh ingredients. It’s an ideology that Porcini’s Chef Daniele Vacca has built upon with vigour, scouring the recipe books of his Sardinian mother and Nonna and adding his own deft touch to the flavours of his upbringing.

Nestled away below the main staircases on the hotel’s lower floor, Porcini has an intimate, grotto-like ambiance, the chairs adorned in lush, thick upholstery, the tables regal wood, and the focal point the illuminated open-air kitchen. As we enter, we’re greeted by Restaurant Manager Felix Bach who shows us to our table. Our waiter for the evening is Rohit; friendly and knowledgeable, his level of service is exemplary – answering all our questions about the menu and making some truly great recommendations.

We begin with a course of burrata – one of their specials of the day – and a warming bowl of porcini mushroom soup. The burrata – a southern Italian specialty native to the Puglia region – are delicate balls of fresh mozzarella with cream and look similar to dumplings on the plate. Served with lightly grilled vegetables and sweet tomatoes, they’re drizzled with a soft pesto that complements the milky texture of the cheese. The soup is equally savoury, as Rohit pours it over a dollop of delicate cream and two fresh raviolis stuffed with duck and chicken confit. For our primi piatti – or ‘first plate’ – we opt to share a portion of risotto all’Astice, a light Atlantic Canadian lobster risotto with lemon and fresh basil.

The lobster claw meat is perfection – juicy and slightly sweet, it balances well with the acidity from the citrus. Rohit also surprises us with a portion of their signature risotto ai funghi Porcini. Featuring the restaurant’s namesake mushroom and topped with a dainty quail egg, it’s rich, earthy flavour is indulgent. Velvety brown in colour and with a toothsome texture, it’s creamier than its lobster counterpart and an infusion of truffle oil adds a depth of flavour making it the clear standout dish of the evening. As we wait for our mains to be brought out Chef Daniele emerges from the kitchen to personally make rounds at each table – an exceptional gesture given that it’s the dinner-time rush and the kitchen is bustlingly busy. He chats with us about his ethos of cooking and the importance of keeping the ingredients fresh, simple and well-prepared – the root of all Italian cuisine. Urging us to try his unique variation of tiramisu, we make a mental note to save some room after our main courses. It’s not long before they arrive and I quickly realize my eyes are more ambitious then my stomach. The ossobuco al Barolo that I’ve ordered is enough to easily feed two hungry people. A Milanese specialty, the tender veal shanks are fall-off-the-bone and

60 QH June 2015 - May 25.indd 60

5/25/15 4:29 PM

Porcini's piece de resistance – Milanese ossobuco with saffron risotto.

Their signature Porcini mushroom risotto

Steamed sea bass en papillote

in orange spirits by the attentive Rohit – ever the showman.

smothered in a savoury-sweet pear compote. Hidden inside the bone is the best part of the dish – the bubbling and delicious marrow, which infuses the rest of the meal with its essence. The ossobuco is accompanied by a portion of saffron risotto whose soft flavour anchors the strong notes of the Barolo in the meat, though the Arborio rice seemed a little under-cooked when lined up next to the lobster and porcini variations. My dining companion has ordered the branzino allo zenzero in carta fata – a fillet of sea bass steamed in a papillote with prawns, vegetables and lemongrass. The presentation is top-drawer, and as Rohit carefully snips the papillote open, a fragrant steam emerges that only fuels our appetites. For dessert, as suggested by Chef Daniele, we go for the classic tiramisu with a twist. Served in a parfait glass, it’s spoonfuls of fluffy mascarpone cream is like dipping into a cloud, revealing a jellied coffee layer underneath (a method of presentation I’ve not seen before) while the classic Savoiardi biscuits get an update with an infusion of almond and cinnamon. It’s a combination of elements that add up to a five-star experience. We end our meal with a special Black Forest cake flambéd table-side

We end our meal, once again in conversation with Chef Daniele and Restaurant Manager Felix, only to realize that the our experience at Porcini has felt more like a gathering of friends – from the personalized service of Rohit, to the warm welcome from Felix and the time spent learning more about Chef Daniele and his creations. When a restaurant table becomes as comfortable as your own kitchen set and the laughter and camaraderie shared over a meal mean just as much as the food itself, you know you know the taste that lingers can only be love. n

The risotto all'Astice made with fresh Canadian lobster

PORCINI RESTAURANT Location: Lower level, The Ritz-Carlton Timings: • 7:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m., daily • 712:30 p.m. till 3:30 p.m., Friday brunch

Specialty of the day: fresh, creamy burrata

Average Meal Price: • QR 60-QR 125, antipasti • QR 75-QR 125, pasta and risotto • QR 145-QR 280, main courses • QR 65-QR 85, desserts Smoking: Yes Licensed: Yes Contact Info: 4484-8000 or email rc.dohrz.leads@ritzcarlton.com

Sweet ending: Chef Daniele's signature tiramisu

61 QH June 2015 - May 25.indd 61

5/25/15 4:29 PM

FOOD & DINING

Tender shanks of lamb complemented with mellow notes of seasonal veggies

Chef Marco's Table Photography by Jessie Palanca

In celebration of Ramadan, The Four Seasons’ Chef Marco Arlotti of Il Teatro, brings us an invigorated taste of tradition with a recipe for lamb enhanced with elements of eggplant, raisin and fine herbs.

Fresh herbs add dimension to this carefully-plated dish

Lamb Rack with Caponata and Herb Oil Ingredients: • 250gm lamb rack • One pat of butter • Several sprigs of thyme and rosemary For the caponata • 30gms eggplant • 30gms celery • 30gms zucchini • 30gms red onion • 10gms raisins • Dash of vinegar • 2 Tbsps extra virgin olive oil • Several sprigs of fresh mint and basil Preparation: Roast the lamb in a pan with the butter, thyme and rosemary then put it in the oven at 170° Celsius for 12 minutes to finish it off – making sure it’s cooked through. For the caponata cut all the vegetables into small cubes and fry them along with the raisins in extra virgin olive oil, then mix them with the vinegar, additional oil, fresh basil and mint. To finish, put the caponata on the plate with the lamb rack on top, garnish it with fresh mint and basil and serve immediately. n Cooking classes with Chef Marco are available every last Saturday of the month for QR 500, including a four-course lunch menu. For reservations call 4494-8600.

62 QH June 2015 - May 25.indd 62

5/25/15 4:29 PM

QH June 2015 - May 25.indd 63

5/25/15 4:29 PM

FOOD & DINING

Contest winner Rachel Winter and her guest with Latino's Chef Luciano Carobini

Word Of Mouth Photography by Shaad Fotos

This column is part of a monthly contest where we send one of our readers to experience a meal in a restaurant. It’s our way of giving the community a voice in our pages. This month Rachel Winter went south of the border at Latino Steakhouse in the Sheraton Doha. Here is her review. QH: What did you order? RW: • Nachos to share, QR 50 •Lamb Ravioli, QR 115 •Classic parrillada, QR 150 •Dulce de leche crêpes with caramel and banana, (Price unknown as not off the menu!) •Chili Chocolate Mousse, (Price unknown as not off the menu!) Again, a most delicious tailor-made dessert for my chocolate-loving guest. Both delicious desserts were suggested by [manager] Nina – wow they were fabulous!

playing at the perfect volume. It was elegant and accommodating with a great Latino feel.

mashed sweet Latino's signature sirolin steak with r sauce potato, grilled veg and lemon butte

If you're looking for something light to nibble, the arugula salad earns top marks

QH: Describe the quality of the food. RW: Our food arrived promptly, perfectly presented and proved a feast for your eyes as well as your stomach. Chef Luciano knows how to create passion and flair on a plate – melt in your mouth creations, quite simply divine dining in Doha. QH: Describe the quality of the service. RW: A warm welcome on arrival and attentive throughout the evening. Our waitress Gerl was extremely knowledgeable about the menu, offering up recommendations. Gerl was on hand throughout our evening. The level of service and attention felt perfectly executed. It was great to see staff with a passion to deliver great service and seal it with smiles on their faces – adding to a great atmosphere. QH: Would you go back? Why/why not? RW: We can’t wait to go back and introduce our friends to Latino…it’s more than just food, it’s the whole dining experience. QH: Favourite thing about the restaurant?

QH: Was there a special touch or flair to the experience? RW: The attention to detail from managers Nina and Laila – and we loved the live music later in the evening too. QH: Could the overall experience be improved? If so, how? RW: Great food, great service, great atmosphere – difficult to see how you could improve this. Thank you so much, it was incredible. n For more information on Latino Steakhouse call 4485-3000, email F&Breservations.doha@sheraton.com, or visit www.latinodoha.com.

QH: Were the prices reasonable? RW: Very reasonable.

RW: The well-thought-out balanced menu – not overwhelmed by too many choices.

QH: Describe the ambiance.

QH: Least favourite thing about the restaurant?

RW: Very welcoming, spacious and the décor was pleasing on the eye, with background music

RW: The candle-lit table made for a great ambiance, but it was a little tricky to read the menu in the low light.

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

64 QH June 2015 - May 25.indd 64

5/25/15 4:29 PM

QH June 2015 - May 25.indd 65

5/25/15 4:29 PM

FOOD & DINING

Flavours Of

Ramadan CROWNE PLAZA DOHA – THE BUSINESS PARK Ramadan At The Events Center

The Crowne Plaza Doha will transform its Events Center into a magnificent Ramadan venue offering iftar and suhoor. Selection includes a wide range of Arabic, Oriental and international dishes. Traditional entertainment and flavourful shishas are also on offer. Iftar buffet is from sunset till 8:00 p.m. and suhoor buffet is from 8:00 p.m. till 12 midnight. Book before June 15 and enjoy a complimentary menu upgrade. For more information call 4408-7577.

DOHA MARRIOTT Iftar

The Holy Month is here and to mark the occasion all the five-star hotels in the country set up lavish Ramadan tents where you can break your fast at iftar and suhoor. QH rounds up some of the best promotions to help you celebrate.

Restaurant Gallery: Come along with friends and family and savor the Chef’s specially-prepared Arabic sweets and traditional hot dishes. Enjoy the souq-style décor and marvel at the biggest iftar buffet in town. With more than 100 dishes to choose from, create a wonderful celebration together and make long-lasting memories in honour of Ramadan. Selection of dishes include Moroccan tagine, traditional kharouf, live falafel station, Persian BBQ and live shawarma station. QR 215. From 5:30 p.m. till 9:00 p.m. For more information call 4429-8499.

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA Iftar

Coral: Delight your palate with succulent Ramadan dishes at Coral for QR 225. From sunset till 12:00 midnight. For more information call 4484-4444.

66 QH June 2015 - May 25.indd 66

5/25/15 4:30 PM

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA THE CITY

MARRIOTT MARQUIS CITY CENTER DOHA Iftar & Suhour

Al Jawhara Ballroom: Celebrate Ramadan at a delicious iftar with friends and family in the Al Jawhara Ramadan Tent. It will exude the spirit of the Holy Month from the elegant décor and traditional cuisine, to the live Arabic entertainment during suhoor. Iftar buffet is QR 225 including Ramadan beverages from sunset till 9:00 p.m. Suhoor buffet is QR 250 including Ramadan beverages from 9:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. Shisha will be served during both iftar and suhoor. For more information call 4015-8888, or email doharestaurants@ihg.com.

Wanassa Ramadan Tent: Break your fast with your favourite delicacies in the exquisite setting of Wanassa, the perfect place to experience the Holy Month of Ramadan. Indulge in traditional Arabian dishes, interactive cooking stations, live Oud music, shisha selection and traditional Ramadan beverages.Iftar is QR 235 from sunset till 9:00 p.m., and suhoor is QR 245 from 10:00 p.m. till 1:30 p.m. For more information call 4419-6100 or visit www.marriottmarquisdohadining.com.

RADISSON BLU Iftar

MARSA MALAZ KEMPINSKI A Palatial Ramadan

Ramadan Tent: Welcome to Marsa Malaz Kempinski’s palatial iftar together with family and friends. Enjoy a delicious buffet with live cooking stations and multiple cuisines. QR 240 per person, with VIP tables for eight people at QR 3,000. Children up to six years-old enjoy the buffet free of charge, while children from 6 to 12 pay half-price. From sunset till 8:00 p.m. For more information call 4035-5555.

Hyde Park: Hyde Park Coffee Shop is an all-day dining restaurant with a warm ambiance. An abundance of natural light and relaxed seating provides an easy familiarity which makes guests feel welcome at any time of the day. The coffee shop offers an a la carte menu and international buffet. Choose from a cornucopia of dishes on a speciallyprepared iftar buffet that’s loaded with vegetarian, fish and meat options. The meal is served daily from sunset until 11:00 p.m. throughout the Holy Month for only QR 140. For more information email fbreservations.doha@radissonblu.com.

Suhoor

Ramadan Tent: Marsa Malaz Kempinski’s palatial suhoor is a regal affair. The exquisite buffet has live cooking stations and offers multiple cuisines. QR 290 per person, with VIP tables for eight people at QR 3,000. Children up to six years-old enjoy the buffet free of charge, while children from 6 to 12 pay half-price. For more information call 4035-5555.

LA CIGALE Iftar

Le Cigalon Restaurant: Reunite with your beloved ones for a unique buffet iftar experience and savour a wide array of mezze, salads, traditional and international delights, complemented by tantalizing desserts at QR 220 per person. Special discounts will be applicable for groups of 15 people and above. For more information call 4428-8698.

Suhoor

Ramadan Tent: This Ramadan surround yourself in authentic traditions at Qatar’s finest tent and savour a lavish suhoor buffet with a variety of Oriental and international dishes, live cooking stations and a succulent desserts section while enjoying flavoursome shisha. Buffet price at QR 250 per person. Special discounts and inclusions will be applicable for groups of 20 people and above. For more information call 4428-8809/10.

SHARQ VILLAGE & SPA Magic of Ramadan Tent

Photo credit: Marsa Malaz Kempinski

Al Dasha Ballroom: For an authentic Arabian experience, enter the majestic magic of Sharq Village & Spa tent to enjoy a lavish buffet. From 8:30 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. For more information call 4425-6666.

67 QH June 2015 - May 25.indd 67

5/25/15 4:30 PM

FOOD & DINING SHERATON DOHA Suhoor

Ramadan Tent: The gracious traditions of the season come to life in the Ramadan Tent, welcoming guests with warm service amid iconic interiors and sparkling chandeliers. Families and friends can bask in true Arabian hospitality with a sumptuous suhoor buffet throughout the Holy Month. Succulent dates, favourite Arabic delicacies, including specialty beverages, mezze, salads, grilled meats and aromatic coffees make up a generous iftar buffet to be savoured until late in the night. QR 290. From 8:30 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. For more information call 4485-3000.

W DOHA Sultan’s Tent

Great Room: The Sultan’s Tent will offer live food stations, extended Arabic buffet, live Ramadan band and shisha menu. Iftar doors will open at 6:00 p.m. till 8:30 p.m. QR 230 per person. Suhoor runs from 9:15 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. QR 285 per person. Free for children below 6 years-old and a 50% discount for children below 12 years-old. Price includes freeflow of soft drinks, Ramadan juices, water, Arabic coffee and Moroccan tea. A 20% discount will apply for SPG card holders – for iftar only. For more information call 4453-5000.

WYNDHAM GRAND REGENCY Iftar & Suhoor THE FOUR SEASONS Ramadan Favourites

Seasons Tea Lounge: When tradition meets modernity, Seasons Tea Lounge is offering an array of Ramadan favourites to enjoy during the Holy Month. Prices start from QR 45. Available daily during Ramadan from iftar until 2:00 a.m. For more information call 4494-8888.

Al Qasr Ballroom: Book your iftar gathering in the Al Qasr Ballroom during the first 10 days of Ramadan and enjoy a lavish traditional iftar or suhoor buffet at QR 99 per person with a minimum of 130 people, subject to availability. For the remaining days of the Holy Month, book at QR 140 per person for groups with a minimum of 150 people. For more information call 4434-3203/3333, or email wgrf&b@wyndham.com.

THE GRAND HYATT Ramadanak – A Grand Ramadan

Ramadan Tent: Located in the heart of its Arabian palace, the Ramadanak tent returns this year. The hotel’s full atrium will be converted into an Arabian palace, while the chefs de cuisine from the acclaimed restaurants will join forces to offer an international buffet featuring flavours to cater to all tastes. Book an iftar or suhoor buffet for QR 250 and indulge in the selection of international and Arabian choices. For more information call 4448-1234.

THE ST. REGIS DOHA Ramadan Menu

Sarab Lounge: Offering a special Ramadan menu for iftar and suhoor with a sophisticated selection of traditional Arabic recipes. From sunset till 1:00 a.m. For more information call 4446-0105, or e-mail diningreservations@stregis.com.

68 QH June 2015 - May 25.indd 68

5/25/15 4:30 PM

QH June 2015 - May 25.indd 69

5/25/15 4:30 PM

FOOD & DINING

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

QH RECOMMENDS

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA Seafood Brunch

Fridays: Fish Market. Indulge in their luxurious buffet and market display featuring lobsters, oysters and tiger prawns. Choose from a wide range of beverage options to complement your meal while enjoying stunning views of the Arabian Sea and Doha’s skyline. QR 375 including unlimited house beverages, tea, coffee and juices. Kids’ package available at QR 160. Extended late Friday Brunch at QR 375 from 5:00 p.m. till 11:30 p.m. with unlimited house vinos and soft beverages. For more information call 4484-4919 or 4484-4444.

Romance Under The Stars

MARRIOTT MARQUIS CITY CENTER DOHA Smoking Beef

Daily: New York Steakhouse. For the first time in Doha, treat yourself to their bourbon-barrel, woodchip-smoked beef tartare, prepared and smoked by their brilliant hosts right in front of you! QR 105 from 6:30 p.m. till 11:30 p.m. For more information call 4419-6100 or visit www.marriottmarquisdohadining.com.

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

REGULAR PROMOTIONS CHOWKING Indo-Chinese Menu &Value Meals

Daily: Tuck in to the new flavours at Chowking with their delectable Indo-Chinese menu. Also, enjoy dinner for two for QR 70-QR 80 including soft drinks. Available at all restaurant locations, serving the best taste at the best price. For more information call Delivery Hotline: 4431-1212, Mamoura: 4486-6077, Al Khor: 4411-8816/17, Salwa Road: 4437-1212, Al Sadd St.: 4431-4411, Holiday Villa Hotel: 4411-5225/5335.

DOHA MARRIOTT JW’s Steakhouse

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

Some promotions may not be available during Ramadan. Please check with each outlet before making a reservation. Weekend Brunch

Fri & Sat: Restaurant Gallery. Discover an array of live stations and specialties featuring favourite dishes from around the globe. Highlights from the weekend brunch include a wide selection of fresh sushi, Peking duck, fajitas, Oriental grills, pizza, curries, biryanis, fresh seafood, ice cream and more. Now offering a kids’ club zone with a special kids’ buffet and activities. QR 270 for regular brunch and QR 375 for bubbly brunch. From 12:30 noon till 4:00 p.m. Will continue throughout Ramadan, but without alcohol. For more information call 4429-8499.

GRAND HERITAGE DOHA Modern Turkish Cuisine

Mon-Sat: Agora. Offering modern Turkish and Ottoman dishes inspired by the Black Sea and the Balkan regions, with Mediterranean touches. From 1:00 p.m. till 11:30 p.m. For more information call 4445-5555.

Family Brunch

Fridays: Blue. Enjoy a sophisticated brunch with special kids’ activities in the exclusively-designed area adjacent to the restaurant. QR 220 including one round of soft drinks. From 12:30 noon till 4:00 p.m. For more information call 4445-5555.

Daily: Fish Market. Enjoy dinner by the beach including a four-course, rich seafood menu with a bottle of exclusive Lanson Rose bubbly. QR 3,000 per couple with private butler service. For more information call 4484-4919 or 4484-4444.

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA THE CITY Prime Cuisine Daily: Prime. Enjoy a delicious a la carte menu and soft beverages. Open daily during the month of Ramadan for dinner from 6:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4015-8888.

Asian Delights

Daily: Hwang. Enjoy the best Asian a la carte menu and soft beverages. Open daily during the month of Ramadan for lunch from 12:00 noon to 4:00 p.m. and dinner from 6:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4015-8888.

KEMPINSKI RESIDENCES & SUITES Signature Camel Burger

Daily: Aroma, The Lounge and Gourmet House. The talk-of-the-town signature camel burger is one of Kempinski’s best-selling food items known for its rich and distinctive combination of tastes that sets it apart from other burgers. For more information call 4405-3325, email restaurants.doha@kempinski.com, or visit www.kempinski.com/doha.

Steak & Vino Menu

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

Business Lunch

Sat-Thurs: Aroma. Aroma offers a creative business lunch menu by using fresh and locally-farmed ingredients. Mixing flavours from around the globe, a few dishes to name are the Apulian burrata, the Angus beef medallions and the sweet indulgence of a fruit-forest honey parfait. QR 95 per person from 12:00 noon till 3:00 p.m. For more information call 4405-3325, email restaurants.doha@kempinski.com, or visit www.kempinski.com/doha.

70 QH June 2015 - May 25.indd 70

5/25/15 4:30 PM

LA CIGALE International Cuisine

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

Sushi Mania

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

LA VARENNE French Country Brunch

Fridays: Indulge in La Varenneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s interpretation of a table-top brunch. Enjoy a full-course, all-you-care-to-eat menu with sharing-style dishes showcasing an array of the best La Varenne classics, along with their hors d'oeuvres and dessert trolleys. QR 179 for regular brunch and QR 379 per person with selected drinks. From 12:00 noon till 4:00 p.m. For more information call 4499-0680 or email reservations@lavarenne.qa.

Rotisserie Night

Saturdays: Delight your taste-buds with an unlimited offering of rotisserie chicken, meat and fish with a selection of side orders for QR 179 per person. From 7:00 p.m. till 10:00 p.m. For more information call 4499-0680 or email reservations@lavarenne.qa.

Business Lunch

Sat-Thurs: Enjoy the most exquisite French business lunch in Doha with two courses for QR 85 and three courses for QR 95. For more information call 4499-0680 or email reservations@lavarenne.qa.

MARRIOTT MARQUIS CITY CENTER DOHA Three Countries, One Platter

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

Tomahawk â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Can You Handle It?

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

71 QH June 2015 - May 25.indd 71

5/25/15 4:30 PM

FOOD & DINING Pizza & Pasta Express

Daily: Cucina. Order any one of Cucina’s pizza or pastas along with a side dish and one soft beverage for just QR 50! From 12:00 noon till 6:00 p.m. For more information call 4419-6100 or visit www.marriottmarquisdohadining.com.

Business Express Lunch

Sun-Thurs: Cucina. Choose from three entrées, three mains and three desserts made from the freshest Italian ingredients and served in 45 minutes or it’s on them – all for QR 85. From 12:00 noon till 3:00 p.m. For more information call 4419-6100 or visit www.marriottmarquisdohadining.com.

MARSA MALAZ KEMPINSKI Sawa Goes Mediterranean

Thursdays: Sawa. Every Thursday Sawa transforms to a Mediterranean culinary haven. Explore a buffet with authentic starters, salads and cheeses from the region, grilled fish and meat, oysters, live pasta cooking stations and even real Italian gelato! QR 190 per person. From 6:00 p.m. till 10:30 p.m. For more information call 4035-5011, email restaurants.marsamalaz@kempinski.com, or visit www.kempinski.com/marsamalaz.

Saturday Roast Lunch Buffet Sawa. Taste an extensive buffet with live cooking stations and a delicious sweet corner, and enjoy your Saturday lunch-time with family and friends in the bright and ambient environment of Sawa. QR 190 per person, including soft drinks. From 12:30 noon till 4:00 p.m. For more information call 4035-5011, email restaurants.marsamalaz@kempinski.com, or visit www.kempinski.com/marsamalaz.

Tapeo After Work

Daily: El Faro. Enjoy your favourite beverage with a complimentary selection of inimitably authentic Spanish tapas and pintxos. From 5:00 p.m. till 7:00 p.m. For more information call 4035-5011, or email restaurants.marsamalaz@kempinski.com, or visit www.kempinski.com/marsamalaz.

Paella Tuesdays

Tuesdays: El Faro. Every Tuesday, (or Martes in Spanish!) taste the only authentic paella in Doha and receive a complimentary pitcher of sangria. The offer is valid on every paella for two people. From 6:00 p.m. till 8:00 p.m. For more information call 4035- 5011, email restaurants.marsamalaz@kempinski.com, or visit www.kempinski.com/marsamalaz.

A Traditional Levantine Experience

Mon-Sat: Al Sufra. With a blend of traditional recipes and flavours from Lebanon, Cyprus, Syria, Jordan and Palestine, the Levantinspired restaurant Al Sufra – ‘the dining room’ in Arabic - has a timeless charm. With a coffee lounge, open terrace with shisha, and a la carte dining, the restaurant can be visited any time throughout the day or evening. Dinner starts from 6:00 p.m. till 11:30 p.m. For more information call 4035-5011, or email restaurants.marsamalaz@kempinski.com, or visit www.kempinski.com/marsamalaz.

Listings Al Sufra Now Open For Lunch

Mon -Sat: Al Sufra. The rich traditional Arabic recipes of Al Sufra are now available for lunch. Have a relaxing break from work and indulge in comforting, home-made food, prepared by the expert culinary team at Al Sufra. From 12:30 noon till 3:30 p.m. For more information call 4035-5011, or email restaurants.marsamalaz@kempinski.com, or visit www.kempinski.com/marsamalaz. Sawa, El Faro, Bohemia, Antica Pesa and Amwage will be closed throughout Ramadan and will reopen on the first day of Eid.

MÖVENPICK HOTEL DOHA Burger Express

Daily: L’Espresso. Why get one burger when you can have three? Stop by at L’Espresso, the bustling heart of the hotel, and dive into a tasty Burger Sampler. Three burgers – beef, chicken and veggie make for one hearty meal. This experience will leave nothing to be desired. Grab the Burger Sampler at L’Espresso for only QR 55. For more information call 4429-1111.

New & Inspired Theme Nights

Daily: Seasons Restaurant. Take your taste-buds on an exciting journey with a variety of new theme nights, plus some old favourites! Les Alpes Mondays The restaurant has combined the finest delicacies of France, Italy and Switzerland to fashion an exclusive gourmet event. QR 160 per person. Lebanese Tuesdays Savour enticing Middle Eastern delicacies combined with authentic drinks and desserts. QR 160 per person. TemptAsian Wednesdays Taste the creativity of the Japanese sushi or the tang of the Thai curry among many others. QR 160 per person. Seafood & Family Thursdays Tuck into a simply spectacular buffet of fresh and succulent seafood while the kids play their hearts out in the famous Kids Kingdom with an array of kiddie treats. QR 180 per person. Naughty Food Gone Good Fridays Enjoy all your tasty indulgences minus the guilt with an array of health- conscious junk food to choose from. QR 140 per person. International Saturdays & Sundays Indulge in a colourful collection of international creations. QR 140 per person. For more information on all promotions call 4429-1111.

Friday Family Brunch Indulge in an elegant yet casual experience with free-flowing bubbly and enchanting music to complement the tasty buffet delights including fresh seafood, live cooking and sushi, plus an endless assortment of appetizers and desserts. QR 215 per person with kids under the age of 12 dining free and those between the ages of twelve and sixteen receiving a 50% discount. Brunch with bubbles or suds for QR 245. For more information call 4429-1111.

ORYX ROTANA X'Press Lunch and Dinner

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

New Tapas Galore Selection

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

Latin Night

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

RADISSON BLU Friday Brunch

Every Friday till June 18: Hyde Park. This Friday brunch caters to the tastes of each guest with over 30 dishes from around the world. The hotel provides extensive children’s activities and games along with supervising staff that will take care of the kids while the adults are entertained by a live band. QR 160 per person (buffet only) and QR 210 per person inclusive of sparkle. From12:00 noon to 3:00 p.m. For more information call 4428-1555.

SHERATON DOHA Seafood Experience

Daily: Almaskar. The hotel’s new seafood restaurant Almaskar offers a fresh sea breeze and retreat-like feeling in the heart of the city. Simplicity, quality of design and finishes are essential in making the difference by embracing the resort-like feeling away from the stresses of daily life. From 7:00 p.m. till 10:30 p.m. For more information visit www.almaskar-restaurant.com.

THE ANVIL ROOMS The Blacksmith’s Lunch

Daily: 28th Floor, Tornado Tower. Choose a signature steak, a side, a sauce and a soft drink for QR 149 available seven days a week. Fridays and Saturdays include a Sommelier’s selected drink for QR 179. From 12:00 noon till 3:00 p.m. For more information call 4499-0685 or email reservations@theanvilrooms.qa.

The Blacksmith’s Supper

Sun-Thurs: 28th Floor, Tornado Tower. Choose a signature steak, a side dish, a sauce and a signature drink for QR 179 with a sommeliers selected drink. From 5:30 p.m. to 6:45 p.m. For more information call 4499-0685 or email reservations@theanvilrooms.qa.

72 QH June 2015 - May 25.indd 72

5/25/15 4:30 PM

THE FOUR SEASONS Piatto Unico

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

Wagyu Beef

Daily Until Ramadan: Il Teatro. The Four Seasons brings you the opportunity to experience the exquisite flavour of Japanese Wagyu beef here in Doha. Chef Marco, the hotel’s Chef de Cuisine will satisfy your palate with exclusive dishes showcasing tasty Wagyu beef with an Italian touch. Prices start from QR 120. From 7:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4494-8601.

THE GRAND HYATT Curry Nights

Mondays: Isaan. The Thai restaurant offers an all-you-can-eat curry night. Every Monday from 7:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m., you can order a variety of unlimited curry to share, with your choice of fish, beef, chicken, mussels or vegetables. You can share up to five curries per round, for only QR 85 per person. For more information call 7021-8097. Not available during Ramadan.

Chatuchak Weekend Market Brunch

Fridays: Isaan. Get an outstanding Thai Chatuchak Weekend Market experience, every Friday for brunch from 12:30 noon till 4:00 p.m. Walk around and explore the colourful array of live cooking stations and market-like stalls. A range of options are available. Enjoy a soft drink brunch for QR 280, a special beverage package for QR 395 and the Moët brunch for QR 680. For more information call 7021-8097. Not available during Ramadan.

Barbecue Nights

Thursdays: Majlis. Enjoy the outdoors on Majlis’ poolside terrace with barbecue and shisha nights, every Thursday. Don’t miss a night of delicious foods grilled to perfection, alongside popular exotic shisha flavours. For more information call 3039-5396. Not available during Ramadan.

THE ST. REGIS DOHA Burger & Pint Night

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

Gourmet Chilli-Dog Nights

Tuesdays: Opal by Gordon Ramsay. Tuesday night is officially Gourmet Chilli-Dog Night. Enjoy the tastiest chilli-dogs in town served with bubbles or brews and includes ice-cream for dessert, all for QR 125. From 6:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4446-0000 or email opalbygordonramsay@stregis.com.

73 QH June 2015 - May 25.indd 73

5/25/15 4:30 PM

FOOD & DINING BBQ Night

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

Weekend A La Carte Brunch

Fri & Sat: Opal by Gordon Ramsay. Delight you taste-buds with everything you can eat from our a la carte brunch menu designed by famous Chef Gordon Ramsay. Sit on the terrace and while away a lazy weekend. QR 295 with soft beverages and QR 395 with selected beverages. For more information call 4446-0116 or e-mail opal.Doha@stregis.com.

THE TORCH DOHA Rotisserie Night

Saturdays: Panorama. Enjoy a delightful Rotisserie Night at the newly-opened Panorama, featuring grilled-chicken carving trolley service by the table. Open from Monday to Saturday from 6:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4446- 5600, or email restaurant.reservations@thetorchdoha.com.

Fondue Bourguignon Night

Mondays: Panorama. Enjoy a Fondue Bourguignon Night prepared with your choice of canola oil or vegetable broth, lightly seasoned and served with a choice of beef tenderloin, chicken or shrimp, and a spiced fish or Surf & Turf combination. For more information call 4446- 5600, or email restaurant. reservations@thetorchdoha.com.

Panorama Special Set Menu

Mon-Wed: Panorama. Enjoy a special menu at QR 225 including your choice of appetizer, main and dessert with coffee or tea. Located on the 50th floor the restaurant offers panoramic views of the city. For more information call 4446-5600, or email restaurant.reservations@thetorchdoha.com.

Wednesday Tex- Mex Night

Wednesdays: Flying Carpet. Enjoy Latino specialties with a wide selection of steaks, burgers and hot dogs, plus welcome drinks and soft drinks for QR 200 per person. Served from 7:00 p.m. till 10:30 p.m. For more information call 4446-5600, or email restaurant.reservations@thetorchdoha.com.

Signature Burgers & Snacks

Daily: Sky Lounge. The lounge presents an array of specialty ‘bistronomy’ including home-made burgers and sandwiches, presented in a relaxing ambiance at Sky Lounge. The restaurant offers breathtaking views of Doha's skyline from the 51st floor. For more information call 4446-5600, or email restaurant. reservations@thetorchdoha.com.

Seafood Extravaganza

Thursdays: Flying Carpet. Indulge in an array of fresh seafood for grilling, frying, or done in the wok, plus a wide selection of Italian seafood antipasti and more for only QR 250 per person including welcome drinks and soft drinks. For more information call 4446-5600, or email restaurant.reservations@thetorchdoha.com.

Listings Barbecue Bazaar Brunch

Fridays: Flying Carpet Friday. Drop in for a sizzling experience and choose from a wide selection of steaks, Oriental BBQ, fish, and burgers for only QR 210 per person including a welcome drink, still water, selected soft drinks and chilled juices. From 12:30 noon till 3:30 p.m. Enjoy a special rate of only QR 98 for children under the age of 12. For more information call 4446-5600, or email restaurant.reservations@thetorchdoha.com.

W DOHA Pitcher Perfect

Sun-Thurs: Market by Jean-Georges. Enjoy signature Market by Jean-Georges cocktails served in pitchers with your favourite bites at this awardwinning restaurant – all for QR 160. From 5:00 p.m. till 7:00 p.m. For more information call 4453-5135, or email bnfreservations.wdoha@whotels.com. Offer not valid during Ramadan.

Burger Night

Sundays: Market by Jean-Georges. Start your week with your favourite burger, side dish and one amazing sundae from the selection – all for QR 125 per person. From 6:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4453-5135 or email bnfreservations.wdoha@whotels.com. Offer not valid during Ramadan.

Sip & Savour

Sat-Thurs: Spice Market. Try Spice Market’s signature cocktails and drinks alongside a combination of mouth-watering snacks with a 50% discount on selected beverages. For more information call 4453-5135 or email bnfreservations.wdoha@whotels.com. Offer not valid during Ramadan.

Business Lunch

Sat-Thurs: Market by Jean-Georges. Choose your favourite starter, main course and dessert in just half an hour at QR 95 for a three-course meal. From 12:00 noon till 4:00 p.m. For more information call 4453-5135, or email bnfreservations.wdoha@whotels.com. Offer not valid during Ramadan.

Jazz Brunch

Fridays: Market by Jean-Georges. Enjoy a delicious brunch with live entertainment by Doha Jazz. QR 410 per person including house beverages, or QR 295 including soft drinks. For more information call 44535135 or email bnfreservations.wdoha@whotels.com. Offer not valid during Ramadan.

WYNDHAM GRAND REGENCY F&B Dining Adventure

Daily: Dine in style at the Wyndham Grand Regency hotel and enjoy a Wyndham Dining Adventure from 1:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. on selected packages. Every course is served in a different restaurant. Bronze Treatment for only QR 199: - Starter at Chopsticks Restaurant - Main course at Tangia Restaurant - Coffee / Tea / Dessert as per guests request wishes at Al Kut Café

Silver Treatment for only QR 299 - Starter at Tangia Restaurant - Main course at Chopsticks Restaurant - Coffee / Tea / Dessert as per guests request wishes at Al Kut Café - Spa treatment discount voucher for 50% off - Tangia voucher for 50% off Gold Treatment for only QR 699 - Starter at Chopsticks Restaurant - Main course at Tangia Restaurant - Coffee / Tea / Dessert as per guests request wishes + Cigar (selected cigar) at Al Kut Café - Limousine pick-up - 1-hour spa treatment - Tangia voucher for 50% off - 50% off on room rate + breakfast included Diamond Treatment for only QR 1,100: - Starter at Tangia Restaurant - Main course at Chopsticks Restaurant - Coffee / Tea / Dessert as per guests request wishes + Cigar (selected cigar) at Al Kut Café - Limousine pick-up - 1-hour spa treatment - Chopsticks voucher for 50% off - Standard room + breakfast included For more information call 4434-3203/3333 or email wgrf&b@wyndham.com.

Sushi Fiesta

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

SPECIAL LISTINGS ASPIRE KATARA HOSPITALITY Red Velvet Cupcakery

June: Katara Cultural Village. A party celebration at Red Velvet is fun! Celebrate your children’s birthday party at QR 60 per child with their great birthday party package. Advance reservation is required. For more information call 4408-0700. June: Ice Cream Sandwich. Enjoy a mouth-watering ice cream sandwich and get a free small bottle of regular water with every purchase. For more information call 4408-0700.

Aspire Grand Café

June: Aspire Park. Try their chicken biryani – a specially-prepared fresh chicken, well-marinated with traditional Indian spices, cooked with fragrant basmati rice and finely-chopped fresh herbs. For more information call 4449-3963. June: Delight your taste-buds with a specially-prepared dhal curry cooked with Indian spices, tempered with cumin and served with paratha bread. For more information call 4449-3963.

74 QH June 2015 - May 25.indd 74

5/25/15 4:30 PM

June: Choose from ready-to-heat soups and a wide selection of hot and cold beverages for dine-in or take-away. For more information call 4449-3963. June: Enjoy healthy choices for breakfast while visiting the park, including fresh croissants, sunny-side up or omelette egg dishes, and crêpes. For more information call 4449-3963.

Burgeri

June: Aspire Park. Burgeri Fun Meal. Each meal comes in a beautifully-designed Fun Box that includes one fruit juice, an order of regular French Fries, and choice of B. Classic, B. Cheesy, Good Dog or their new B. Bites (served with special sauces). For more information call 4449-3958. June: Children can now enjoy Burgeri’s Crazy Golf. Play and have fun on a 9-hole mini-golf course this spring by dining at Burgeri. For more information call 4449-3958. June: A new level of dining experience is now open daily at the Burgeri Rooftop. Open Sun-Wed from 11:00 a.m. till 12 midnight, Thurs and Sat from 11:00 a.m. till 2:00 a.m., and Friday from 12 noon till 2:00 a.m. For more information call 4449-3958.

Sukar Pasha Ottoman Lounge

June: Katara Cultural Village. Reserve a kashta and enjoy sumptuous food and magnificent views for a minimum order of QR 1,500. Daily from 3:00 p.m. till 1:00 a.m. For more information call 4408-2000. June: For only QR 200 enjoy a rich and traditional Turkish breakfast, daily. From 8:00 a.m. till 11:00 a.m. For more information call 4408-2000. June: Experience the comfort of their designer VIP beach tents with personalized butler service. Also, their outdoor garden seating is your ideal option to unwind. For more information call 4408-2000. June: Enjoy a whole lamb seasoned to perfection, charcoal spit-roasted and served with aromatic traditional Machbous rice for take-away. From 3:00 p.m. till 12:00 midnight. For more information call 4408-2000. June: Take a real creative break and enjoy the new Turkish Business Lunch at Sukar Pasha for only QR 85. From 12 noon till 3:00 p.m., daily. For more information call 4408-2000.

Chac’Late

June: Katara Cultural Village. Their newly-designed breakfast menu now includes an organic egg breakfast, served fresh and healthy at QR 48. For more information call 4408-0733. June: Enjoy a signature Parisian or Chac’Late breakfast with indoor or outdoor seating. Prices start from QR 30. From 8:00 a.m. till 11:00 a.m. For more information call 4408-0733.

L’wzaar Seafood Market

June: Katara Cultural Village. A fresh selection of cold mezze including classic, mixed or deluxe is now available daily from the a la carte menu. For more information call 4408-0710. June: A tantalizing special dish of the day is available during lunch and dinner. For more information call 4408-0710.

75 QH June 2015 - May 25.indd 75

5/25/15 4:30 PM

FOOD & DINING

Listings

June: Experience their Tandoori grill and Thai curry cooking styles for your fresh seafood. Other cooking styles are also available. For more information call 4408-0710. June: Come to Lâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;wzaar and take in their new Marine Life art exhibit, with masterpiece paintings available for sale starting from QR 500. For more information call 4408-0710.

le Vesuvio

June: Katara Cultural Village. Three-Course Lunch. A special table lunch menu consisting of a starter, a main course and a dessert for only QR 75. Available from Sunday to Thursday. For more information call 4408-1500. June: Pizza Home Delivery. They deliver for a minimum order of 20 pizzas. Advance reservation is highly required. For more information call 4408-1500. June: A special a la carte menu for children is available daily. For more information call 4408-1500.

Shawarma Albisana

June: Katara Cultural Village. Enjoy your favourite chicken or beef shawarma with a cold soft drink for only QR 15. For more information call 4408-1400.

Kunafa Albisana

June: Katara Cultural Village. Kunafa Keshda. Enjoy a unique homemade kunafa roll filled with keshda. Available for dine-in and take-away. For more information call 4408-1200. June: Savour a unique homemade soft kunafa with Nabulsi cheese imported from Jordan for either dine-in or take-away. For more information call 4408-1200. June: Try their new aesh el saraya â&#x20AC;&#x201C; a bread pudding recipe with deep flavours of caramelized sugar and hints of rosewater, topped with homemade fresh cream, pistachios, cashew nuts and a dash of cinnamon. For more information call 4408-1200.

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

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

76 QH June 2015 - May 25.indd 76

5/25/15 4:30 PM

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

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

Pampano A refined, modern Mexican cuisine concept in partnership with Chef Richard Sandoval and Maestro Placido Domingo. Open daily from 12:00 noon till midnight. Featuring live Latin music on Thursdays and Fridays from 7:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. Located at Croisette 1, Porto Arabia, The Pearl-Qatar. For more information call 4495-3876, Ext: 1221.

Alison Nelsonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Chocolate Bar A slick, chic and stylish cafĂŠ offering salads, desserts, decadent chocolates and ice-cream, alongside dishes that are a delicious choice for lunch, dinner and breakfast. Open daily from 6:00 a.m. till 2:00 a.m. Located at Croisette 1, Porto Arabia, The Pearl-Qatar. For more information call 4495-3876, Ext: 1311.

See us online! www.qatarhappening.com

77 QH June 2015 - FINAL.indd 77

5/26/15 10:14 AM

FOOD & DINING

Directory

New York Steakhouse Marriott Marquis City Center Doha Rocca The Grand Hyatt

SPANISH & TEX-MEX Aceite 4018-8894 Caminito 4447-0000 Chili’s 4466-0663 El Faro 4035-5555 Ipanema 4419-6100 Latino Steakhouse 4485-3000 Oyster Bay 4446-0105 Paloma 4484-4444 Pampano 4495-3876, Ext: 1221 Picasso’s 4428-1428 Rodizio Brazilian Churrascaria 4408-7777 Salsa 4429-8888

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

INTERNATIONAL

Al Mourjan The Corniche

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Al Hubara Al Liwan Restaurant Al Matbakh Rooftop Grill ForKnife Baraha Blue Brasserie Restaurant Choices Corniche Crossroads Kitchen Flying Carpet Grand Gourmet La Brasserie La Cigalon Restaurant Lifestyle Restaurant Mawasem Mehfil Restaurant Nando’s Delivery Hotline The Dining Room (Al Najada Boutique Hotel) The Dining Room (Fraser Suites Hotel) The Grill The Lagoon The Village Souq Waqif Three Sixty Torch Tea Garden Vine

4485-3000 4424-2888 4433-6777 4496-6600 4447-0000 4472-2666 4402-3333 4429-8888 4419-6100 4446-5600 4434-3333 4446-2222 4428-8888 4463-2154 4423-3333 4409-4444 4436-0606 4433-6666 4424-3444 4448-1234 4484-8000 3331-1558 4446-5600 4446-5600 4446-0105

ITALIAN Bice Ristorante Carluccio’s Cucina Di Capri Fabio’s Pizza II Teatro La Dolce Vita Italian Restaurant La Spiga by Paper Moon La Veranda le Vesuvio Paper Moon Porcini Rocca The Italian Job

4495-3876 4495-3876 4419-6100 4428-8698 4416-5641 4494-8888 4436-7991 4453-5135 4485-3000 4408-1500 4016-6000 4484-8000 4448-1272 4428-1428

78 QH June 2015 - May 25.indd 78

5/25/15 4:30 PM

Tangia Wyndham Grand Regency

BAR FOOD

JAPANESE Neo Oishi Sushi Sakura Strata Restaurant & Lounge Sushi Minto Megu Yen Sushi Bar

CAFÉS

Aramede ess Park Crowne Plaza Doha – The Busin

Coral InterContinental Doha

4432-2508 4442-8989 4428-1428 4015-8888 4467-5577 4495-3876, Ext: 2101 4428-8888

MEDITERRANEAN

AMERICAN & BURGERS

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

PERSIAN Grill @ The Village Parisa Prince Of Persia

American Grill Burgeri Chili’s Fuddruckers Hardee’s Johnny Rockets Ric’s Kountry Kitchen TGI Friday’s

4411-0188 4449-3958. 4466-0663 4483-3983 4467-8750 4455-2792 4443-7846 4488-7008

SEAFOOD 4444-4700 4425-6666 4015-0190.

SOUTHEAST ASIAN Asia Live! Chowking Delivery Hotline Mamoura Al Khor Salwa Road Al Sadd St. Holiday Villa Isaan Mango Tree Nusantao: Sea Kitchens Spice Market Sri Kebaya The Noodle House City Center Mall The Pearl Wok Mee Noodle House

Belgian Café 4484-4444 De Ozone 4470-8822 Madison Piano Bar 4428-8888 Pool Bar 4484-4444 Shehrazad 4428-1428 The Irish Harp 4485-4444 The Lounge 4405-3325 Wahm 4453-5353

4429-8888 4431-1212 4486-6077 4411-8816/17 4437-1212 4431-4411 4411-5225/335 4448-1250 4495-3876 4494-8888 4453-5353 4434-0838 4411-5063 4495-3876 4496-6600

Almaskar Al Dana Al Dente Seafood Restaurant Al Sayyad Al Sultan Brahim Fish Market L’wzaar Seafood Market Pampano Pier 12

4485-3000 4425-6666 4472-2666 4484-7420 4446-0105 4484-4444 4408-0710 4495-3876 4428-1428

STEAKHOUSES Bentley’s Grill JW’s Steakhouse Le Grill New York Steakhouse Prime The Anvil Rooms The Butcher Shop and Grill The Old Manor Steakhouse

4428-1428 4429-8888 4484-7412 4419-6100 4015-8888 4499-0685 4413-5508 4446-2222

Alison Nelson’s Chocolate Ba 4495-3876, Ext. 1311 Al Jalsa 4425-6666 Al Kut Lounge 4434-3203 Allegria 4485-3000 Al Mandarine 4463-3748 Anima Gallery & Lounge 4002 7437 Aspire Grand Café 4449-3963 Atrium Lounge 4485-4444 Bab Al Baher 4423-3333 Biscotti 4448-1282 Café Murano 4035-5555 Café Vergnano 4495-3876 Ext. 2611 Chac’Late 4408-2000 Coffee Time 4466-7551 Colombiano 4434-2753 Dean and Deluca 4451-9780 Gourmet House 4405-3333 Jones the Grocer 4407-7175 La Margarita 4409-4444 Le Gourmet 4436-1789 Lime Café 4496-6600 Maya La Chocolatiere Landmark Mall 4486-2264 Villaggio Mall 4417-8132 MBCo The Gate Mall 4407-7130 Al Emaadi Financial Square 4411-7224 Moka and Co 4458-3232 Orangery Café Troittor 4428-8888 Quick Bites 4419-6134 Red Velvet Cupcakery 4408-0700. Sarab Lounge 4446-0105 Savor Café Lounge 4408-7777 Shisha Garden 4428-8888 Sky Lounge 4402-3333 Sugar and Spice 4411-4456 Sweet Temptations 4485-3000 The Courtyard 4433-6444 The Drawing Room 4433-6666 The Lobby Lounge 4484-8000 The Terrace Lounge 4433-6555 Torch Café 4446-5600 W Café 4453-5353 Ya Hala 4423-3333

79 QH June 2015 - May 25.indd 79

5/25/15 4:30 PM

QH June 2015 - May 25.indd 80

5/25/15 4:31 PM

SPORTS

Top Picks

ASPIRE ACADEMY Aspire Active Men’s Program

Ongoing: Aspire Active Men’s Program consists of carefully-devised classes to meet personal requirements and goals such as overall fitness and strength, to specific and targeted fat-loss activities. The offerings take place at Aspire Dome, making full use of its incredible range of facilities including a fully-equipped gymnasium. Open to men (males over the age of 18 years) and teenage boys (from 12 to 17 years-old). For more information visit www.aspire.qa.

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA Step Aerobics

Sun & Tues: The Bay Club. This routine gets your heart and lungs in shape and tones your gluteus. Step aerobics is a terrific cross-training activity for runners, cyclists, and walkers. It’s also exceptional at developing balance and flexibility. Sundays from 12:00 noon till 1:00 p.m., and Tuesdays from 1:00 p.m. till 2:00 p.m. For more information call 4484-4444.

THE GRAND HYATT Fitness Classes

Ongoing: Jaula Club & Spa. Jaula Club, in partnership with Evolve, is offering weekly fitness classes. QR 50 for Jaula members and QR 65 for non-members. For more information call 4448-1060.

SHARQ VILLAGE & SPA Macrobiotic Shiatsu Practitioner & Health Advisor ASPIRE ACADEMY Table Tennis

Ongoing: Aspire Academy’s table tennis program is one of the strongest youth development programs in the Arab world. The comprehensive structure, training schedule and planned local and international competition exposure has allowed the Aspire Academy student-athletes to achieve notable performances within the GCC and Arab and Asian tournaments in which they compete. For more information visit www.aspire.qa.

Ongoing: Six Senses Spa. Restore natural balance and well-being with shiatsu. This invigorating fullbody massage uses the application of pressure along the meridians to release trapped energy. Ms. Yuko Ozawa offers shiatsu together with macrobiotic and dietary consultations to help you achieve optimal health. For more information call 4425-6999/6995, or email reservations-sharq-spa@sixsenses.com.

81 QH June 2015 - May 25.indd 81

5/25/15 4:31 PM

SPORTS

The Only Way Is Up... By John Hunt

On the road to the 2022 FIFA World Cup, building a strong national team for Qatar is paramount. This month, we turn our eyes north to find out what Qatar can learn from Iceland – as the small nation leads by example with a climb up the FIFA rankings that’s nothing short of extraordinary.

t’s not a prerequisite for World Cup hosts to win the tournament. It is a prerequisite, however, that the hosts are at least competitive, and this will be uppermost in the minds of the Qatar Football Association (QFA) as they assemble a team that will do the country proud come 2022. Last year, Brazil hosted the World Cup and they were many people’s pick to lift the trophy before their semi-final mauling by Germany. But Qatar’s

ambitions are more prosaic, much like those of 2010 hosts South Africa, whose aim was to at least get out of the group stages, while showcasing their country to the world.

stability won’t have helped – but it might surprise you to learn that it doesn’t actually take that long for a small country to create a competitive side, and if we look north, we can find evidence of this.

South Africa succeeded in the latter, and narrowly failed in the former, missing out on making the last 16 on goal difference. The question is: can Qatar go one better than the 2010 hosts? Presently, this would be a big ask, but it’s certainly achievable by 2022.

In 2011, Qatar were ranked the 93rd best side in world football according to the FIFA rankings, with Iceland ranked 104th. Currently, Qatar are ranked 99th, while Iceland have shot up the rankings to 38th in the world, and sit second in their qualification group for EUR0 2016.

Rewind to 2011 and the Asian Cup which was hosted here in Doha. Qatar got out of their group before a narrow quarter-final loss to eventual winners Japan– still arguably the finest side in Asian football. Back to January 2015 and in the most recent Asian Cup, this time hosted and won by Australia, Qatar bowed out at the group stages on the back of three straight defeats, a performance which was led in part to the recent dismissal of manager Djamel Belmadi – the QFA’s fifth coach since 2011. It might seem that little progress has been made by the national side– and certainly a lack of managerial

Iceland and Qatar share roughly the same size of indigenous population (c. 300,000) but in just four years Iceland have become a side capable of mixing with the world’s best. If they can do it, then why not Qatar? Qatar Happening spoke to Heimir Hallgrímsson, joint coach of the Iceland national side. He told us: “There is no one factor behind our improvement. Firstly we have really good facilities [seven full-size indoor pitches, and 22 full-size, outdoor, all-weather pitches] to develop players. Secondly, the level of coach education is very high. The benefits of having top-class facilities can only be maximized if you have

82 QH June 2015 - May 25.indd 82

5/25/15 4:31 PM

atulated Qatar's Khalfan Ibrahim is congr winner by teammates after scoring the against Australia last year

the knowledge to get the most out of them. Even the youngest children starting their football training have coaches with UEFA qualifications. “The mentality, attitude and organization within our team all play a major role. I hope our coaching has something to do with it too. Many factors make a winning team, but these are probably the biggest.” Have other Football Associations been coming to Iceland to find out what their secret is? “I don´t think there are any secrets,” admits Hallgrímsson. “We’re not doing anything different than others. It’s mostly journalists that are trying to find some hidden reason for our good results.” Ooh, touchy, but it seems like the secret is…there is no secret. However, eight of the current Iceland national squad ply their trade in some of the biggest European leagues (England, Spain, Holland, Italy) and Hallgrímsson says: “The more players we have in the best leagues and playing with and against the best players in the world, the better.” While Qatar certainly does not lack for facilities or funding, all of the national side’s players play their club football domestically. Secondly, Mr. Hallgrímsson’s joint co-coach of the Iceland side is none other than Lars Lagerbäck, the Swede who led his country to five major tournaments in a row in the 1990s. He became Iceland coach in, you guessed it, 2011. The Icelandic coaching set-up, then, has youth in Hallgrímsson, and legacy in Lagerbäck. As I write this, the QFA are searching for a successor to Mr Belmadi, and may well have appointed him by the time you read this. I wouldn’t be surprised if the next incumbent is a really big name, one with a

Iceland celebrates during the 2014 World Cup qualifiers

history of managing teams to honours or at least to excel themselves. There’s also a fair chance that he will look at increasing the international experience of his squad at club level. These are two areas that need attention if Qatar are to maximize their potential ahead of 2022. As has been shown in the North Atlantic, it needn’t take long…n Editor’s Note Qatar Happening contacted the QFA on several occasions but they had not commented by the time we went to press.

r of Lars Lagerback, the co-manage the Icelandic national football team.

83 QH June 2015 - May 25.indd 83

5/25/15 4:31 PM

SPORTS

Fitness In Motion By Melanie Isakowitz Images courtesy of Aspire Active

The mercury may be through the roof, but the summer months shouldn’t be a time to slack off when it comes to exercise and health. If you’re looking for activities to keep your kids and teens entertained, then Aspire Active is the way to get fit and have fun this Ramadan! Beat the heat with Aspire Active Here’s just a few of the services and facilities available that parents and kids can use to get moving! • 250 hectares in Aspire Zone • 150+ classes a week for women with Aspire Active • 88 hectares in Aspire Park, Doha’s largest park • 55+ classes a week for men with Aspire Active • 121 bicycles for rent with Cycle Aspire • 5kms of cycling track in the new Cycle Aspire program • 14 fields for public use: eight mini-football fields, two basketball courts and four multi-use volleyball/basketball courts • 2.8kms of rubber-coated track with exercise stations along the way • 7 days a week you can go to Aspire to have fun and be active

A gym for every body

Aspire, Doha’s Academy for sporting excellence, hosts a broad range of fitness-boosting activities in its award-winning indoor sports facilities to promote an active, healthy lifestyle for the community. “Aspire Active is our life-changing community engagement initiative geared at enhancing the quality of lives of [the] people it serves,” Dr. Leonieke Richardson, Manager of Aspire Active tells us. “The open-to-all program offers unique pedagogical fitness, health and wellness education and multi-sport activity for the entire family. We teach babies, mothers, fathers, boys and girls ‘How To, When To and What To’ and our Aspire Active community programming provides actions and solutions for individuals to step in the direction of a healthy future.” The broad variety of scientifically-designed classes and courses on offer cater to beginners and advanced users, from teens to adults. Detailed attention to instructor knowledge, customer care and best practice is the focus of Aspire Active’s program delivery.

Ramadan ready In line with its commitment to providing year-round activities to the local community, Aspire Zone Foundation (AZF) aims to keep their facilities the preferred destination for people in Qatar during Ramadan, with a comprehensive program of sports, social, and religious activities throughout the Holy Month. Adult Aquatics Programs Three hundred and fifty; that’s the number of people currently engaged in Aspire Active’s Aquatics

Program. “It’s a number that we’re really proud of and no matter what someone’s motivation is – pure recreation, a work-out for a triathlon or just developing water confidence– there’s always a class that will suit their profile,” Csilla Winteroube, Health & Exercise Supervisor for the program divulges. Swimming is a great form of activity and as nearly all of your muscles are involved in the movements, its benefits are tremendous. As well as providing an excellent cardiovascular workout, aquatic exercise has the potential to tone the entire body. It’s also a good option for people who have weight issues or knee problems because swimming offers them the same fitness benefits as land-based exercises. Teenage Camps For registered teenage boys and girls, a Ramadan camp from June 21 until the start of Eid, and an August program from August 2-27 will be offered. Boys: Shaheen (ages 12-14), and Saqr (ages 15-17) Girls: Bokneg (ages 12-14), and Thobe Al Nashal (ages 15-17). These camps are specifically designed to suit the growth needs of male and female adolescents. "Parents have the chance to observe how children and teens taking part in the programs have grown in confidence and ability over the summer months," says Vasiliki Topalidou, Head of Events & Partnerships at Aspire Academy. "They emerge from our courses combining new skills with a positive mental attitude." Summer Snorkels Do turquoise lagoons and shimmering gates of coral enthrall you? In these Summer Snorkel classes held on June 2 and 9, female adults (18 years and

84 QH June 2015 - May 26.indd 84

5/26/15 9:14 AM

Men's kettle-bell class

related issues, as well as allow the documentation and tracking of progress towards a healthier you. A re-assessment will be done after three months.

If boxing's more your thing, throw a few punches at Aspire's fully-equipped facilities

Aspire Active offers TRX training classes as part of its summer program

Nutritious-Delicious-Ramadan Special nutrition sessions with Aspire Active lifestyle instructors are held to inform you on nutrition-related information and how to create positive lifestyle choices. Ask questions and share your experiences regarding food habits and nutrition issues under professional guidance and supervision. Garangao Children’s Festival Apart from its fitness programs, Aspire Zone Foundation (AZF) will celebrate the Garangao children’s day as part of its Ramadan Festival, featuring family-oriented activities, including sportsgames, entertainment and performances. Garangao is a centuries-old tradition celebrated throughout the Gulf region after the breaking of the fast on the 14thday of the Holy Month – when half of the fasting period is over. After having finished their iftar meal at Maghrib – after sunset prayer – children dress up in their traditional clothes, sing the Garangao folk song and collect treats like dates, rice and wheat, the ingredients used for a traditional Qatari dish called harees. The origin of the word ‘garanga’ has its roots in ‘gara’, a Khaliji word for the sound of clanging stones or the sound of the nuts and sweets rumbling rhythmically in the carefully-designed cotton bags the children carry around their necks. n HERE’S HOW TO REGISTER WITH ASPIRE ACTIVE Online: www.aspire.qa/ASPIREACTIVE/Membership

above) learn the technique and the right way to use their equipment. After completing this course, you´ll be prepared for your next trip to the Maldives and ready to explore the hidden treasures of the underwater world. Try and Triumph For additional motivation, Aspire Active encourages people to participate in their ‘Try and Triumph’ challenge that runs throughout Ramadan and rewards individuals for continuous participation in classes during that special month. “The best thing about this challenge is that members design an individual program with their instructors and progress to being able to complete everything without assistance and at their own pace and according to their own schedule,” explains Vasiliki Topalidou, Head of Events & Partnerships at Aspire Academy.

Men’s Program: June 1 until the end of Ramadan Women’s Program: June 18 until the end of Ramadan Curvy and Healthy This is another Ramadan challenge specially designed for women and part of the Beautyfull Program, a health, fitness and weight management program offering women with weight management concerns and obesity the opportunity to enroll in class-leading fitness regimes to attain desired results. Aspire Active experts work in tandem with the female-enrollee to ensure that there is something to cater to their diverse needs and personal preferences and to improve their overall health profile. As part of the registration process, individuals undergo the Aspire Active health check and a body composition analysis. Regular health checks help identify aspects placing one at risk for future health-

In-Person: • Ladies Club 4413-6430 Sun-Wed, 7:30 a.m. till 11:30 a.m., and 4:00 p.m. till 8:00 p.m. Thursday, 4:00 p.m. till 8:00 p.m. • Aspire Dome 4413-6219 Sun-Wed, 4:00 p.m. till 9:00 p.m. Thursday, 4:00 p.m. till 8:00 pm. For a successful registration you need: • 2 passport photos • ID/passport copy • Application form (upon registering) • Credit/debit card only for payment • Medical doctor’s certificate stating that you are fit to exercise if you have a medical/ health issue. Learn more about Aspire Active by visiting them on Facebook at www.facebook.com/aspireactive

85 QH June 2015 - May 25.indd 85

5/25/15 4:31 PM

SPECIAL PROMOTION

Kids can build their football skills and learn from the pros

Evo Sports' qualified instructors work one-one-one to help young swimmers get their water-wings

Camps For Kids Evolution Sports Qatar introduces For two weeks this summer Evolution Sports Qatar be offering a variety of camps and clinics their summer camps where children will for players of all levels across a range of sports can learn a new sport in a fun including soccer, swimming, basketball and rugby. environment. We show you how to Camps vs. Clinics sign up and hit the field! The #IamEvo Summer Camps typically take place

ince 2007 Evolution Sports Qatar has set the standard of excellence for youth sports camps in Qatar. With an emphasis on total player development, your child will receive the highest level of coaching in a fun and safe environment. With a 1-12 coach-to-player ratio, their UEFA-qualified coaching staff are able to evaluate individual players and focus on developing your child's technical, tactical, athletic and team-building skills. But, most importantly, they will make sure your child has fun.

during the school holidays from 9:00 a.m. till 1:00 p.m. daily. These camps are open to all children ages 5-16 years-old with a clear focus on fun and enjoyment. Educational themes, closely linked to the British National Curriculum, are a key camp feature, with topics on leadership, fair play and sports journalism all playing a part. The #IamEvo Development Clinics take place from 4:00 p.m. till 7:00 p.m. in the evenings over a three,

four or five-day period. Here, the focus is on individual player development where core skills are taught in a more challenging environment. All sessions are led by their most experienced coaches who are supported by well-qualified assistants to ensure each player is given the attention they deserve. All camp and clinic fees include a T-shirt, an evaluation, and medal or certificate. For more information visit www.evosportsqatar.com, or call 4407-6772. Or, if youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re a member, speak to your childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s coach. n COMPETITION TIME! For a chance to win a free place to an #IamEvo Camp or Clinic, just answer the following question and email your answers to Toyan@evosportsqatar.com. When was Evolution Sports Qatar established? A - 2010 B - 2007 C - 2013

86 QH June 2015 - May 25.indd 86

5/25/15 4:31 PM

QH June 2015 - May 25.indd 87

5/25/15 4:31 PM

SPORTS

The Fitness Guru By Jonny Parr

This month, the team at Absolute Health & Fitness had the chance to hit the gym with Lucy Sewell – currently one of the industry’s most formidable women in fitness. We find out her views on what it takes to train your way to the top.

t 31-years-old, 165cms tall and 54 kilos in weight, Lucy Sewell sports an interesting and inspirational figure for women. The coach, fully qualified teacher, and Optimum Nutrition-sponsored athlete, has experienced a rapid demand for her services. You need only check out her following on Facebook and Instagram to get an understanding of her

growing popularity. This made me ponder many questions such as… what makes this girl so admired in the fitness field? What is her training philosophy? Why is she so successful and able to inspire and motivate so many people – and in particular women? Luckily, she took a moment out of her busy schedule and agreed to this interview. Here’s what she had to say. QH: Who you are and what you do? LS: I haven’t actually been the industry that long! I’ve been coaching about 3-4 years now, although I’ve been training myself a lot longer than that. I was sponsored by Optimum Nutrition little over a year ago and things have really taken off since then.

Trainer Lucy Sewell

I like to think I'm open-minded. I’m passionate about science and training, and [am] a pursuer and promoter of a balanced lifestyle (prone to the occasional rant). I’m not a fan of low calorie/fad diets. Having suffered from anorexia as a teenager, I’m interested in the psychology of eating habits. I'm very much about helping people build a healthier relationship with food [and] encouraging sustainable lifestyle choices.

88 QH June 2015 - May 25.indd 88

5/25/15 4:31 PM

It's time to get over the taboo of female weight-lifting

QH: You're a big advocate of women lifting weights? Why? LS: I’m an advocate of everyone lifting weights! I think everyone can benefit from improved strength, health, body composition, hormonal profile, etc. QH: How important do you feel nutrition is? What do you eat? LS: Nutrition is extremely important. I eat a balanced/varied diet that supports my health and my training. The majority of my diet consists of wholefoods. I try and eat vegetables, and good quality proteins and fats with every meal, but I train hard and if I want to have a treat, or go out for food, I’m there! I think the most important aspect of nutrition to achieve long-term success is sustainability, so I follow a flexible diet. I don’t have a ‘diet’ mentality where I restrict different foods and this sits well with me psychologically and keeps me consistent. QH: What's the most common goal of your clients? What matters do you consider? LS: The most common goal is certainly fat loss/ improved body composition. While I help people work towards this goal, I’m not interested in short-term results for people. I try to instill a long-term focus, where clients work towards sustainable nutrition/ training choices and the bigger picture of health. I have a lot of clients, particularly females, who come to me with the goal of fat loss but they are eating 1,000 calories per day. This is not a situation where you can then diet down in a healthy way to lose bodyfat. So in a lot of situations, I have to look at slowly increasing calories, like a ‘reverse diet’, together with training stimulus/increased output to put people in a better position metabolically to improve their

body composition. Helping people build a better relationship with food is a very important focus for me as so many people have had terrible experiences with yo-yo dieting and disordered eating. QH: What's your aim for the rest of this year and the future? LS: Education is extremely important to me. I'm hoping to finish my Precision Nutrition Certification in the next couple of months, and looking to study the ISSN Diploma in Applied Sports & Exercise Nutrition later this year. I’m also hoping to start online coaching services later in the year too. In terms of my own training, I want to continue to make progress with my strength and physique, and just learn as I go; that’s the great thing about training, you can always improve! QH: Any advice for our readers who may be starting out in fitness? LS: Be realistic about your goals. Be patient and consistent. Think ‘where will I be a year from now?’ Not a few weeks. Make health your priority; stop obsessing over body-fat. Stay away from the scales. Stop being so hard on yourself. Give yourself a break and appreciate your progress. We’re all striving for results and end goals that we want to achieve, but it’s good to remember that small progress is still progress at the end of the day. QH: How can people find out more about you and reach you? LS: People can find me at www.facebook.com/LucySewellFitness, or alternatively on Instagram and Twitter as @lucysewell_01.

Lucy doing a set of leg presses

Thank you again to Lucy for taking the time to answer our questions. It’s clear she’s a big advocate of good nutrition, as it’s vital whatever your goals. What’s more, women shouldn’t shy away from lifting weights as it can play a huge role in your development – particularly with regards to increasing your metabolism. We hope you can all take some inspiration from Lucy and use her tips to get into the shape you dream of. n Jonny Parr is the founder and CEO of Absolute Health & Fitness. For more information on personal training options call 3385-2696 or visit www.absolutehealthandfitness.org.

89 QH June 2015 - May 25.indd 89

5/25/15 4:31 PM

SPORTS

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

QH RECOMMENDS

The Gym

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

Tennis

DOHA MARRIOTT New Personal Trainer

Upon request: The Marriottâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s comprehensive gym offers more than just regular treadmills and resistance equipment. Here they integrate equipment and personal training and include variety and creativity to help you explore and enjoy what suits and works for you. Experienced, new-generation certified personal trainer, belonging to ACE (American Council on Exercise), Coach Andrew, will keep you engaged and motivated with his invigorating and results-driven methodology. Enjoy one 30-minute consultation with Coach Andrew for free. Valid until Ramadan. For more information call 4429-8520.

EVERY WEEK INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA TRX Fitness

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

Fitball

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

Core Strength

Thurs & Fri: The best core exercises may surprise you. It's not enough to just do abs-crunches and sit-ups. To build a strong core you need to exercise a variety of muscles from your hips to your shoulders. A strong core improves athletic performance and postural imbalances. Thursdays from 5:00 p.m. till 5:45 p.m., and Fridays from 7:00 a.m. till 7:45 a.m. Members QR 30/Non-members QR 50. From 9:30 a.m. till 10:30 a.m. For more information call 4484-4852.

LA CIGALE Tone & Shape

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

BoxFit

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

Explosive Cardio

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

MARSA MALAZ KEMPINSKI Fitness Classes

Daily: The Health Club. Numerous fitness classes are available, including body-pump, boot camp, abs workout, Pilates, body-weight, Zumba, yoga, pushup challenge and more. Classes start from QR 75 per person. For more information call 4035-5555, email spa.marsamalaz@kempinski.com, or visit www.kempinski.com/marsamalaz.

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

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

Martial Arts Join in Sheraton Fitness for Aikido and kickboxing classes at QR 50 per class. For bookings and reservations call 4485-4601/4600/4609, or email HRC.sheratondoha@sheraton.com.

Squash Visit Sheraton Fitness for squash court rentals at QR 100 per hour. For bookings and reservations call 4485-4601/4600/4609, or email HRC.sheratondoha@sheraton.com.

THE FOUR SEASONS Power Yoga This is 75 minutes of dynamic yoga practice including strengthening vinyasa positions. Energizing and detoxifying, the practice improves balance, strength and flexibility. QR 80 per person. For more information call 4494-8888.

Cycling Enjoy a 60-minute Activio cycling class that targets the 65-85% heart rate zone. QR 60 per person. For more information call 4494-8888.

Boot Camp Enjoy a 60-minute outdoor workout that combines body-weight exercises, interval training and strength exercises, resembling a military workout. QR 80 per person. For more information call 4494-8888.

90 QH June 2015 - May 25.indd 90

5/25/15 4:31 PM

Activities & Clubs Bike Riding The Corniche Aspire Park

Bowling

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

Golf

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

Horse Riding

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

Ice-Skating

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

Sailing

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

Swimming

Aspire Academy for Sporting Excellence 4413-6219 or www.aspire.qa Aqua Park 4490-5872 or aquaparkqa@gmail.com

Tennis & Squash

Khalifa Tennis & Squash Complex 4440-9666

Walking

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

91 QH June 2015 - May 25.indd 91

5/25/15 4:31 PM

QH June 2015 - FINAL.indd 92

5/26/15 10:14 AM

QH SENSATIONS

Top Picks

THE FOUR SEASONS Spring Indulgence

Till June 15: The Spa. This is a revitalizing and detoxifying mineral salt and Balinese massage that relaxes body, mind and spirit, followed by a full, indulging facial. QR 1,325, for two and a half hours. For more information call 4494-8802, or email spa.doh@fourseasons.com.

MARSA MALAZ KEMPINSKI Spa by Clarins Now Open!

Ongoing: Visit this 3,000-sqm European spa featuring legendary products and treatments by Clarins. With 23 treatment rooms, male and female wellness and wet relaxation areas, laconiums, saunas and steam-rooms and two indoor pools (male and female), Spa by Clarins is the ultimate pampering experience. For more information call 4035-5555, email spa.marsamalaz@kempinski.com, or visit www.kempinski.com/marsamalaz.

SHARQ VILLAGE & SPA Special Ramadan Treat

During Ramadan: Six Senses Spa. Shine during the summer with this amazing treatment combining two of their best facial brands to give you the most flawless skin. Perfect for any skin type, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll see instant, visible results after this cooling, calming treatment. Starting with a deep cleansing by Amala, next you can experience a rejuvenating or brightening oxygen facial with an extra Atoxelene infusion. QR 1,550 for one hour and 45 minutes. For more information call 4425-6999/6995.

WYNDHAM GRAND REGENCY Vigour Treatment

Daily: Angsana Spa. This treatment consists of a 30-minute foot massage, 60-minute body massage, 15-minute face cleansing, 15-minute facial massage and 30-minute refreshments and relaxation. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s perfect to pamper yourself during the hot summer, all for QR 599. For more information call 4434-3152/3153, or email spa-wyndhamgrandregencydoha@angsana.com.

THE GRAND HYATT Ramadan At Jaula

During Ramadan: Jaula Spa & Club. Get pampered this Ramadan while benefiting from a 50% discount between 12:00 noon and 6:00 p.m. For more information call 4448-1056.

93 QH June 2015 - FINAL.indd 93

5/26/15 10:17 AM

QH SENSATIONS

Puttin’ On The Ritz

By Ashlee Starratt and Jorge Granda Photography by Shaad Fotos

QH gets the diamond touch at The Ritz-Carlton Spa in the form of a magnetic body treatment jam-packed with some very precious minerals; then it’s on to a five-star afternoon of indulgence tailored just for gents. Feeling spoiled yet? Shine Bright Like A Diamond Marilyn Monroe proclaimed them to the world as a girl’s best friend. They come in all shapes, sizes and colours and you can wear ‘em any which way you want (preferably around your fingers!), and sometimes, you can even have them scrubbed all over your body. Yes, I’m talking diamonds. As I learned on a recent trip to The Ritz-Carlton Spa, the shiny gems have a host of beneficial properties for your skin, from removing toxic impurities, anti-aging components and even creating a barrier on your skin to shield it from disease. The treatment they offer is called the Diamond Body Indulgence and it’s an hour and a half body scrub, massage, moisturizer and full facial. My

therapist Ivy, who is from the Philippines, greets me at the spa reception and shows me to my locker. If you haven’t been to the spa and gym facilities at The Ritz, they’re well worth the traffic and roadworks to get there. With massive indoor tennis and squash courts, an Olympic-sized pool and everything from yoga to kick-boxing cardio classes on offer, the space really ticks all the boxes. The changing areas are spacious, with a refreshing juice bar and lounge area to indulge in while you wait, ample lockers for storage and shower and beauty stations with every imaginable amenity. It’s like entering a lush boudoir. Ivy escorts me to the treatment room which is equally well-appointed – candle-lit with soft ambient music and the most warm, comfortable massage table that reclines and elevates like one of those Posturpedic beds. She explains to me that she’ll be using only Natura Bissé products from Spain and she has me start by laying face-down on the table while she mixes their diamond emulsion.

Resembling something akin to volcanic pumice, the mixture is granular and black as jet, infused with diamond and iron nano-particles. As Ivy paints my body it feels like any ordinary exfoliating scrub; it’s when she goes to remove it that the magic happens. Using a special magnetized brush she hovers her hands over my body and literally ‘vacuums’ up the mineral filaments – it’s space-age to watch and

there’s a tingling, electric sensation as they lift off my skin. After repeating this process front to back, I have a quick shower to rinse off any remaining residue before Ivy massages in a moisturizing diamond cream. My skin is left feeling magnetically-charged with a subtle shimmer of precious gem-dust.

Moving on to the facial, Ivy again uses Natura Bissé’s diamond-enriched facial line to gently exfoliate the top epidermal layer. Because this is an anti-aging facial it also includes a glycolic peel. I haven’t had a peel before so this was the most testing part of the treatment. Though Natura Bissé uses only natural fruit amino acids in their products, it still felt like I was being stung and became quite painful – especially if you have sensitive skin. The amino acids rid the skin of its top-most layer where toxins and build-up can become trapped. After the peel Ivy applies a blissfully cool and soothing mask with marine kelp DNA and finishes with a luscious diamond moisturizing cream whose nano-particles help lock in moisture. My experience with the Diamond Body Indulgence was over-the-top to say the least – never has my usually dry skin retained this level of hydration over the course of the week that followed. One thing I now know for sure is that those glittering rocks sure are this girl’s best friend.

94 QH June 2015 - May 25.indd 94

5/25/15 4:32 PM

The Olympic-sized swimming pool

Relax before your treatment in the idyllic wet room

ct The lush pool grounds are perfe some after-spa luxuriating!

Natura Bissé is the spa's go-to product line

the lower part of my legs I feel some discomfort, but given that I did a strenuous leg workout that morning, the pain could be attributed to that.

The Main Man When it’s time for some ‘me time’ a spa visit can be one of the best gifts you can give yourself. I’m a big fan of spa treatments because they can be a blissful hour or two under the hands of an expert therapist, and if the treatment is performed properly it can help you forget about any outside stress you may have going on in your life. One of my favourite hotels in Doha is The RitzCarlton. I’ve been visiting their restaurants and facilities since I arrived in Qatar 12 years ago and my favourite luxury is their spa. Tucked away inside the five-star property, this ultra-luxury spa blends the elements of the ocean and desert in one space, providing guests a retreat where they can relax their body, soul, and mind. Inside the men’s section guests find a wealth of amenities including steam-rooms, showers, relaxation areas and the treatments rooms. The décor is sublime and very luxurious. Inside the treatment rooms the fusion of Arabic and Asian

elements are very much present throughout. The colour red and gold is predominant, while Arabic lamps and small Oriental statues can be spotted in some of the corners. For the past 12 years, I’ve tried different treatments in this spa – I remember the first time I ever had a body scrub was at The Ritz, and today I’m back to try the popular Gentlemen World experience. This particular treatment consists of a two-hour body scrub, body massage and a facial. The treatment commences with a purifying body exfoliation from head-to-toe. The therapist cleanses your entire body, giving the same attention to each area – which is good as some tend to focus more on your back or your legs. The scrubbing takes around 45 minutes. From there I head off to take a refreshing shower to remove all the residuals from the body scrub. Then the treatment continues with the spa’s signature one-hour massage. The pressure applied by the therapist is somewhere in the middle between medium and hard. Only when he’s massaging

The treatment finishes with a 45-minute facial, specially designed for male skin-types. He starts by applying different creams and cleanses my face with a soothing tonic. Towards the end of the facial, he applies a mask for ten minutes and then gives me a toe-curling head massage. When the mask comes off, my complexion looks fresher. The whole experience was definitely indulgent – during the treatment I managed to even fall asleep a couple of times. Relaxation doesn’t begin to describe the whole experience – you’ll just need to get down to The Ritz and find out for yourself! n THE RITZ-CARLTON SPA Location: Ground floor of the hotel Timings: • Facilities open from 5:30 a.m. till 11:00 p.m., daily • Treatments offered from 9:00 a.m till 9:00 p.m., daily Average Price: • QR 850, 90-minute Diamond Body Indulgence • QR 1,000, 150-minute Gentlemen World Treatment Contact Info: Call 4484-8173 or 4484-8183 and email Spa.doha@ritzcarlton.com

95 QH June 2015 - May 25.indd 95

5/25/15 4:32 PM

SPECIAL PROMOTION

Indulge with a full range of esthetic services from roots.

idea in my mind, as I preferred to go home to the UK whenever I needed something as important as a haircut. Hair and beauty services are, by their very nature, personal; requiring trust and confidence between the client and her professionally-qualified technician. At roots, we hope to achieve precisely that through our internationally-trained expert staff as well as our innovative product choices.” Roots boasts a strikingly unique, spacious and sophisticated interior, with eight hair stations, three beauty treatment rooms and multiple manicure and pedicure stations. In addition to traditional hair, beauty and nail services, roots also offers hair extensions, Brazilian blowouts, anti-aging treatments, nail extensions, HD brows, makeup, and spray tanning services.

The team from roots is ready to help you look and feel your best

“Our stylists and beauty therapists have been carefully selected for their expertise and knowledge and are qualified under their internationally respected professional designations,” Debbie adds. “Similarly, our products have been selected to provide results true to their promises, based on professional and personal experience. We believe that beauty is age-agnostic and ‘real’ and as such, every woman is unique. That is why we deliver constructive consultation, innovative, personalized solutions and responsible customer care rather than pursuing a ‘one-size fits all’ approach.”

Know Your Roots

Roots’ standard of service also relies on the high quality products that the salon uses. With products evolving on an almost daily basis, roots is constantly researching innovative and exciting options that may be available for use – particularly those that offer a more natural alternative to traditional products.

Ladies with luscious locks can now have their tresses trimmed at roots! We take you inside the newly-opened premier international women’s hair and beauty salon.

Committed to fulfilling its promise to offer a unique salon experience for each and every client, roots also offers several personalized packages including ‘Bridal’, ‘Mum-to-Be’ and ‘Glamour’, in order to ensure that real women feel beautiful, sophisticated and ‘cared for’ at every stage of life.

oots has now opened its doors in Doha and is staffed with internationally-qualified experts committed to delivering an outstanding ‘homeaway-from-home’ experience to each client, every single time. Conveniently located in the heart of the city in South Duhail near Landmark Mall, the bespoke salon has been designed to represent the ethos of roots – client-focused, innovative and sophisticated – to deliver an exceptional experience of internationally

respected standards that will ‘relax, renew and revive’ its clients. Offering a multitude of services for hair, beauty, nails and tanning treatments, roots delivers solutions that are personalized, consistent and trusted. Together with an enriching physical environment, the salon’s true strength lies in its staff – all of whom are qualified under their internationally respected professional designations.

The essence of roots is embodied in the passion and experience they bring to every client experience, with international products at their disposal to ensure exceptional results. Another unique facet of the salon is its emphasis on face-to-face consultation, enabling its staff to understand the requirements and ideas of each individual client before suggesting and agreeing to treatments and solutions. Debbie Algosaibi, the founder and owner of roots tells us, “roots began many years ago as a persistent

With its personalized and high quality services, innovative products, carefully selected international hair stylists and British beauty therapists and their honest consultation and advice, roots is well positioned to become Doha’s leading beauty salon. n ROOTS SALON Location: Rawdat Umm Lekhba – Building No. 6, Street 934, South Duhail Contact Info: Call 4411-4463 or visit them online at www.facebook.com/RootsQtr.

96 QH June 2015 - May 25.indd 96

5/25/15 4:32 PM

QH June 2015 - May 25.indd 97

5/25/15 4:32 PM

QH SENSATIONS

HEALTH AND THE HOLY MONTH By Lynsey Riach

As we welcome the annual celebration of Ramadan, find out how you can stay active, healthy and avoid over-indulging on all the sweet temptations on offer at iftar and suhoor!

asting has long been known for its health benefits; however, it can actually put a lot of strain on the body which makes exercise and good nutrition difficult to maintain during the Holy Month – a time when dehydration, decreased muscle mass and weight gain are common amongst those who fast.

It means for those who want to maintain or improve their health and fitness, Ramadan can be something of a metabolic minefield and as much damage limitation needs to be put into action as possible so as to not suffer severe health-related problems during and after. This is especially true when Ramadan falls during the sweltering summer months.

As many of us are aware, daytime life moves at a slower pace during Ramadan and then completely changes up at night when Muslims break their fast. Once they enjoy iftar and begin eating and socializing with friends and family, people generally feel more energetic. Take note: Ramadan should not be used as an excuse to take a break from exercising – as it’s extremely important that you do some form of physical activity over Ramadan, as without it, and in the absence of a regular eating pattern, your metabolism will gradually slow down and your body will not operate at its optimum level. This can quickly add up to weight gain!

So when’s the best time to hit the gym? With your body-clock completely thrown it may be tricky to stick to your usual routine, but the ideal time to exercise during the Holy Month is either very early in the morning after your last meal or after sunset following your first meal. This will give your metabolism some sense of normality. Exercise duration should be kept to a minimum. Aim for 45 minutes of high-intensity work. Ramadan should be more about maintaining muscle rather than muscle growth. It’s not the ideal time to push yourself.

Exercises that are gentle during this month would be walking, swimming, cycling and yoga. Understand that it’s ok to move your body while fasting – don’t be scared! Given the fast-and-feast nature of Ramadan, a diet that supports an active lifestyle is probably the toughest challenge. But it’s water, rather than food, that’s the secret to staying fit. Once the sun sets on your day and you’re allowed to drink, your main focus should be hydration, as this is the key to your metabolism surviving the physiological stress of fasting. A recommended daily target should be from 3-4 litres of water – but this depends on your exertion levels. Eat four or five small meals during the post-fast period, which should be enough for maintenance. Eat a large pre-fast meal before sunrise then break the fast when the sun goes down. Eat again at about 9:30 p.m. and finally have a pre-bedtime meal at 11:30 p.m.

You are what you eat! Without much control over when to eat, you should try to show discipline when choosing what to eat. Ensure that meals contain easily digestible protein and, depending upon your body composition goals,

98 QH June 2015 - May 25.indd 98

5/25/15 4:32 PM

e Maintaining your exercise routin a during Ramadan should still be ts! priority – but with a few adjustmen

Why is water the best for thirst instead of other Ramadan drinks? some complex carbohydrates and essential fats. Follow an intense workout with a natural whey or soy-based shake with essential fats, a piece of fruit and a handful of nuts. Eat something wholesome such as eggs, grilled vegetables, wholemeal toast and coffee, then go straight into your workout. But not everyone could digest that much food and then train at that intensity so do what suits your body best. Just know to be smart in your food choices as it’s easy to over-indulge at a time when so many delicious and festive foods are on offer. Ramadan shouldn’t be a time that prevents proper nutrition and physical activity. It can be very challenging and requires strict discipline and moderation – but that’s part of the meaning of Ramadan.

So what actually happens to your body during a fast? Your body generates its own energy by burning stored resources made from excess fats, carbohydrates and sugars to produce energy. The liver is the most significant organ in this economical process; it converts the fats into chemicals called ketone that are then used as a source for energy. Detoxification is one of the most important benefits of fasting. A regular body-process, detoxification occurs as the colon, liver, kidney, lungs, lymph glands and skin eliminate or neutralize toxins. This process speeds up during fasting as the body breaks down fats. Chemicals and toxins absorbed from food and the environment are stored in fat reserves and released during fasting. Fasting is also a healing exercise for the mind, body and soul in more ways than one. At a physical level,

energy and resources are diverted from the digestive system (which is constantly in overuse as we graze on food) to the immune system and metabolic processes allowing the body to heal, rebuild and replenish itself. Medical studies show that during a fast, abnormal tissue growths such as tumours become starved for nutrients and are hence more susceptible to being broken down and removed from the body. This revamped protein synthesis results in healthier cells, tissues and organs.

Unlike water, other fluids contain a lot of sugar and can result in you consuming extra calories. Drinking too many Ramadan drinks and other soft drinks will fill up your stomach and delay your digestion process, adding on unwanted weight!

Top Tip! Water plays a significant role in weight loss and maintenance, because it helps to get rid of toxins and reduce the feeling of hunger. This is why it’s important to drink small quantities of water throughout the night.

Other changes in the body during a fast include a slight decrease in core body temperature due to a decline in metabolic rate and general bodily functions. Blood sugar levels also drop as the body uses the reservoir of glycogen in the liver and the base metabolic rate (BMR) is reduced in order to conserve energy. The digestive system (which is very often overloaded and ceaselessly put to work) also cleanses itself for more efficient digestion and nutrient absorption. The lining of the stomach and intestines are allowed to restore glands and muscle, and remove waste matter.

Prevention is thirsty work…

Fasting and Dehydration

• Do not add too much salt to salads and other dishes. Also avoid eating salty foods like salted fish and pickles as they increase the body’s need for water.

You may be surprised to learn that during fasting you actually lose a lot of water – as much as 1 litre of water per day. This is because when the body is deprived of food it will burn its own energy stores – fat and water. Sixty to seventy per cent of your body is made of water and any reduction in your water intake can affect your body’s cells and nerves from functioning properly. This is why it’s absolutely essential to compensate the loss of water in your body, because dehydration can cause undesirable side effects such as: constipation, headache, dizziness, tiredness and dry skin.

The food that you eat plays a major role in controlling your thirst while you’re fasting. So here are some hydration tips to help keep your thirst at bay: • Drink at least eight glasses of water every day. If you’re exercising and are outdoors in hot weather, you lose more fluids. So make sure you drink more water. • Avoid hot and spicy dishes as they increase thirst.

• Eat fresh fruits and vegetables that are rich in water and fibre. They stay in the intestines for a long time and reduce thirst. • Drink fresh fruit juices rather than sweetened juices. • Try not to drink large quantities of water all at once or a lot during a meal. Instead drink water between your meals.

99 QH June 2015 - May 25.indd 99

5/25/15 4:32 PM

QH SENSATIONS d Ramadan is a time when we shoul to be exceptionally mindful of how nourish our bodies after fasting

Good to know Thirst is a sign of dehydration. Whether or not this information comes as a surprise, the truth is if you feel thirsty, you’re already dehydrated. Basically you need to avoid reaching the spot where you feel thirsty. Of course, during the long fasting days of Ramadan, drinking water is not an option but these little tips and tricks may just help… 1. Drink water through the night Prepare for your day of fasting by drinking enough water throughout the night. Keep a bottle of water close by during the evening, and try to drink a cup or two at least every hour. An easy way to remember to drink water is to associate it with a common, daily act. Multiple health websites suggest taking a drink whenever your phone rings. We suggest drinking water when commercials come on during your favourite TV show. 2. Fashion matters Be careful when picking your daytime clothes during Ramadan. The colour of your shirt, the fabric of your pants, and the layers of clothes all play an important role in keeping your body temperature as low as possible. If you work indoors, pick a light-coloured shirt; if most of your day is spent outside, a darker colour will help protect you from the effects of the sun. Black, however, is not advisable, as it tends to attract the heat and lock it close to your body. A loose cotton T-shirt, which allows your sweat to evaporate, is a better idea.

3. Cold showers Cold showers help in many ways to rehydrate you during the month of Ramadan. After a couple days of fasting, thirst becomes a normal feeling, so try to notice other, obvious signs of dehydration: cracked lips, flushed skin, fatigue, increased body temperature, and increased breathing and pulse rate, followed by dizziness, increased weakness and laboured breathing.

dehydration later on. Try to counterbalance the amount of water lost by drinking water before you go to sleep.

If you feel one or more of these symptoms, you should try to lower your body temperature in any way possible. Spend 5-10 minutes with the base of your head under direct cool water. You can also wet a small towel with ice water and apply the towel to your forehead, the area around your ears, the base of your neck, the upper back, and the chest.

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

4. Plan your menu Food that contains a lot of sugar (such as Ramadan sweets) can really dehydrate you, while fruit is perfect for providing extra water. So instead of ending your iftar feast with piles of sweets, eat a couple slices of watermelon or an orange. Green salads are another good source of extra water, so include them in your Ramadan diet.

• Dates are easy to digest so they don’t exhaust the stomach.

5. Working out You lose a lot of water when you sweat, so working out can undoubtedly cause dehydration. But exercising also helps your body dispose of toxins and other harmful elements that might cause

Moving your body gently, replenishing your natural energy stores with pure water and healthful foods will keep you feeling happy, healthy and energetic during this special season. Enjoy! n

BENEFITS OF EATING DATES AT IFTAR:

• Dates decrease the feeling of hunger, which helps prevent excessive eating and digestion disorders. • Dates prepare the stomach to receive food after being inactive throughout the day by activating the release of digestive secretions and juices. • Dates are very rich with sugary energy, so the body is supplied with important nutrients. •Dates can help prevent constipation as a result of changing meal times.

100 QH June 2015 - May 25.indd 100

5/25/15 4:32 PM

QH June 2015 - May 25.indd 101

5/25/15 4:32 PM

QH SENSATIONS

San Francisco:

The Dreamscape City By Jessica Furseth Images courtesy of the San Francisco Travel Association

The foggy city by the bay will charm you with its chilled vibe and bustling street scene. It will wear you out with its steep hills, and thrill you with its fresh fusion cooking.

eople actually wear flowers in their hair in San Francisco, a city which does a surprisingly good job at living up to its substantial reputation. The California city may have become the technology innovation capital of the world, but its heritage as a haven for hippies, non-conformists and rebels lives on. Simply walking down the street will give you a fill of the San Francisco flavour, with chatty strangers and talented street performers everywhere in a city known for friendliness and curiosity. Every story you read about San Francisco seem to suggest something magical is at work there – Oscar Wilde put it this way: “It is an odd thing, but everyone who disappears is said to be seen at San Francisco.

It must be a delightful city, and possess all the attractions of the next world.” Its open-minded, spirited attitude is probably San Francisco’s main attraction, but as a very close second is the art deco masterpiece that is the Golden Gate Bridge. You can cross the threekilometre long bridge on foot or by bicycle, but the best views are probably from Fort Point, just under the bridgehead. Equally spectacular views can be found from Baker Beach, where the rugged Presidio Park takes over from the cityscape and makes you forget you’re in an urban environment altogether. As a relatively small city, San Francisco is best explored by foot. Still, it’s wise to make use of the excellent bus network to negotiate the many hills, some which are graded at more than 30%. Your legs will ache for days after your visit, down the back from walking uphill, and down the front from walking down them. And make sure you get standing room on the ubiquitous cable cars, and hang on for dear life as the ancient contraptions soar up and down the steepest hills of the city. It’s hard to go wrong when choosing sights in San Francisco as even the biggest tourist trap,

Fisherman’s Wharf, has a major redeeming feature: a pack of wild sea lions have made the pier their home. A more elusive sight is the flock of wild parrots inhabiting Telegraph Hill, but you’ll know it if you’re near them: the little green and red bodies are constantly screeching at each other as they roam about town. Visitors with children will find Golden Gate Park ripe for exploration, whether it’s the buffalo paddock or the Japanese Tea Garden. The latter serves tea of course, but the carefully maintained paths, plants and statues in the labyrinth-like garden should not be missed. The park is also home to the Conservatory of Flowers, the Academy of Sciences, and the de Young Museum of fine art, meaning you can spend the whole day there and then some. Just be sure to take a jacket, even if there’s no cloud in sight. San Francisco is prone to afternoon fog, especially in the summer, and the notoriously unpredictable micro-climates means you may well encounter all four seasons in a single day. With most hotels located downtown, Market Street is a reliable landmark. The best little hole-in-thewall is Tu Lan, a tiny Vietnamese restaurant much loved by locals. Heading north, Columbus Avenue

102 QH June 2015 - FINAL.indd 102

6/1/15 11:58 AM

The grassy knoll of Alamo Square

Cable cars on California Street

North Beach's City Lights Books Golden Gate Park's Japanese Tea Garden

is a convenient navigator up to North Beach, where Caffe Trieste is one of many excellent places to stop for a caffeine fix. San Franciscans take their coffee very seriously, and you can’t go wrong with a stop at one of Blue Bottle Coffee’s locations around town. Sightglass Coffee in SoMa is worth the detour. It’s hard to have a bad meal in San Francisco, where the residents value fresh fusion cooking and take issues such as sustainable farming and composting very seriously. The Slanted Door at the Ferry Building serves modern Asian food worthy of writing home about – be sure to book a few weeks ahead. A truly classic San Francisco dining experience awaits at Tadich Grill in the Financial District, serving up big, steaming plates of seafood cioppino. But some of the best food is found in the more suburban neighbourhoods, such as Burma Superstar in the Richmond. The queues may look off-putting but no one dreams of leaving, as soon there will be odd-sounding but mouth-watering dishes such as ‘Fermented Tea Leaf Salad’. The Mission is where you will find the coolest coffee shops and bars, serving local brews such as Anchor Steam and Fat Tyre to the thirsty masses hanging around Dolores Park. At the heart of the Mission is a

The funky flare of the city's Mission District

thriving Latino community, and the dish you want is the famous ‘Mission Burrito’. But make sure you’re not too full to take a stroll afterwards; the tradition of creating murals on every available surface lives proudly in the Mission. Even more so than anywhere else in the city, this is a neighbourhood bursting with colour.

Fly & Sleep Qatar Airways flies to San Francisco daily, with a stopover in the U.S. The Orchard Garden Hotel is a proper San Francisco experience in the sense it’s the city’s first all-green hotel, using sustainable wood and chemical-free cleaning products – the roof terrace is lovely too. Hotel Boheme is a boutique hotel whose spirit hails to the Beat era, placing you right in the bustling North Beach scene. n

Hike the trails at Presidio

103 QH June 2015 - May 25.indd 103

5/25/15 4:32 PM

QH SENSATIONS

The Dish On Qatar

104 QH June 2015 - May 25.indd 104

5/25/15 4:32 PM

By Aisha Javaid

Qatar will soon be getting ready to observe the Holy Month of Ramadan, where observing Muslims fast from sunrise to sunset. By fasting during the day, we learn about the importance of being able to eat as we please – a privilege many people around the world don’t have. Thus, fasting teaches us to be thankful for what we are given. Along with the cultural sensitivities of the Holy Month come many fun traditions that take place only during this time. QH introduces you to a few!

f you’re new to Doha, you’ll find there are a few small things here and there that are not available in any tourist guide. Regardless of whether you’re Muslim or not, we encourage you to take part in this special month. Cultural appreciation is a great way to get settled, as well as take in the culture of the country that has offered us so much. This month only comes around once a year and there are so many great things to take part in – no matter what your age. Let’s begin!

Time Change What is this? Daylight savings, you ask? Well, not exactly. During the month of Ramadan, many of the timings change. As people stop eating at sunrise, many stay up the whole night before falling asleep. Throughout the day, the streets of Doha are rather quiet. As soon as the sun sets, everyone is back at it again with residents becoming nocturnal during this month. This may seem different, but during Ramadan the city comes alive at night and it becomes normal to see folks roaming around the streets during the late hours. Timings for stores, restaurants, and businesses will change during this month, while in the evenings Doha’s already heavy traffic increases, so plan around this wisely. Considering the high summer temperatures, this time change serves as an excellent way to avoid the grueling day-time heat. Night walks around the Corniche, or just a simple outing are a great way to enjoy the change in Ramadan timing.

Ramadan Tents & Special Offers Fasts are broken at sunset for iftar and then suhoor. Many hotels around the city offer suhoor tents or iftar specials. For a certain fee, this is a great way of getting to know the local culture while enjoying its delicious food. The ornate tents set up in the hotels are nicely air-conditioned –so don’t worry, the heat won’t get to you. In addition, many restaurants within the hotels offer iftar specials that you can take part in. Outlets across Doha, such as The St. Regis, La Cigale, The Four Seasons, The Grand Hyatt, and many more all offer such services, with fees ranging from QR 200 and up. Lavishing yourself during iftar or suhoor at a five-star hotel may not be an activity you take part in multiple times during the Holy Month, but it’s most definitely worth a visit at least once!

Garangao If you have kids, this is a great way for them to take part in the spirit of the Holy Month. On the 14th day of Ramadan, to celebrate the midpoint of the month, children get dressed up and receive different types of sweets. Traditionally, they’re meant to go door-to-door and ask for candy. This is another great way for little ones to get acquainted with the Qatari culture. Children can take part in getting henna done, wear local clothing, try different local sweets, and participate in local activities for children. This year Ramadan, Garangao will fall around July 1. As of now, there have been no formal

announcements on exactly where these festivities will take place, but in the past places like the Museum of Islamic Art, Katara, Ezdan Mall and The Gate Mall have held events to mark the occasion. For more details about specifics of these events, be sure to visit their websites once Ramadan begins.

Making Things Personal As a final word of advice for enjoying Ramadan, it’s great to visit a person’s family for iftar. There’s nothing like actually enjoying the preparation before the fast breaks – the warm, delicious smells coming from the kitchen and, of course, the large sums of food are most definitely a sight to behold. Along with the happiness of finally satisfying hunger and thirst, comes the strong sense of appreciation. Sharing food between families really helps bring one another closer together. For non-Muslims who are feeling extra adventurous, you should even try to fast! I know it sounds a little daunting if you’ve never done it before, so start by getting into the hang of it slowly. Begin by fasting for half a day, and then after that try going the full day! Whether or not you successfully make it through is one thing, but at least you will have gained a new insight in to the Muslim culture. On behalf of the Qatar Happening team, we wish you a safe and successful Ramadan! n

105 QH June 2015 - May 25.indd 105

5/25/15 4:32 PM

IT HAPPENED

In a gesture of sportsmanship an Al Jaish team member goes for a handshake with a winning teammate from Lekhwiya

H.E. Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani

t Danish football legend and curren Lekhwiya coach Michael Laudrup

Lekhiwya celebrates their 2015 victory on the pitch

QSL QATAR CUP 2015 Lekhwiya Stadium May 1, 2015 106 QH June 2015 - May 25.indd 106

5/25/15 4:32 PM

pushes to Somali-born British runner Mo Farah s Gebrhiwet overtake Ethiopian athlete Hago

Reigning 200-metre Olympic champion Allyson Felix was back in Doha to defend her record

IAAF SAMSUNG DIAMOND LEAGUE 2015 Qatar Sports Club May 15, 2015

Finnish javelin contender and former World Champion Tero Kristian Pitk채m채ki

107 QH June 2015 - May 25.indd 107

5/25/15 4:32 PM

IT HAPPENED

waits to VCUQatar student Ahmed Malala ates go up to the podium with his classm

Photo credits: Shaad Fotos

graduating classes VCUQatar saw one of its largest ing their diplomas. this year with 68 students receiv

VCUQATAR GRADUATION 2015 Education City May 4, 2015 108

QH June 2015 - May 25.indd 108

5/25/15 4:33 PM

Images courtesy of Gulf Times

s ifi, Minister of Labor and Social Affair , H.E. Dr. Abdullah Saleh Al Khula , (centre) US Ambassador to Qatar Smith Shell Dana H.E. left); (second from (right) man and Managing Director of CBQ Chair Vice an, Alfard in Husse and Mr.

CBQ 40 ANNIVERSARY DINNER Commercial Bank Celebration Tent May 2, 2015 TH

bin Jabor Al Thani, L-R: H.E. Sheikh Abdullah bin Ali llah bin Nasser bin Chairman of CBQ; H.E. Sheikh Abdu Qatar, and Mr. Hussein Khalifa Al Thani, Prime Minister of ging Director of CBQ Alfardan, Vice Chairman and Mana

of AHB Mr. Ahmed Hassan Bilal, Chairman attends the Group (seated second from left) festivities with top-level dignitaries

Conference organizer Carolin Zeitler welcomes attendees

Holistic Health Coach Nicole Van Hattem

HOW WOMEN WORK CONFERENCE Qatar Business Incubation Center May 20 & 21, 2015 109 QH June 2015 - May 25.indd 109

5/25/15 4:33 PM

IT HAPPENED

Group; H.E. Mr. Fernando Manuel Director of Public Relations, AHB Chairman of AHB Group, L-R: Mr. Khalid Ahmed Hassan Bilal, r to Qatar; Mr. Ahmed Hassan Bilal, ssado Amba guese Portu o, de Gouveia Arauj Doha ts Resor & s Hotel n ral Manager Westi and Mr. Gianrico Esposito, Gene

â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Tedeschi Company; ; Ms. Dyanna Sidiropulo, Partner Food & Beverage for AHB Group ce Manager for AHB Group L-R: Ms. Louise Mortlock, GM of , GM of New Projects and Finan Merris Andy Mr. and , Group of AHB Mr. Ahmed Hassan Bilal, Chairman

AHB GROUP BBQ DINNER PARTY The Pearl-Qatar May 19, 2015

man of AHB Group; Mr. Nasser L-R: Mr. Ahmed Hassan Bilal, Chair General Manager of the W Doha Al-Jaidah, and Mr. Safak Guvenc,

110 QH June 2015 - May 25.indd 110

5/25/15 4:33 PM

QH June 2015 - May 25.indd 111

5/25/15 4:33 PM

IT HAPPENED

red Chef Mauro and his team prepa the a special meal for our winner in hotels iconic WOW Suite

Photo credits: Imran Khan

Our lucky QH Grab-Bag winner Ann Whyte and her companion with W Doha Executive Chef Mauro G. Gomez

THE QH GRAB-BAG WOW SUITE DINNER W Doha May 13, 2015

OT GENASIS CONCERT Sheraton Doha May 8, 2015

with some The American rapper, shown here VIP! fans, rocked the house at Indigo

112 QH June 2015 - May 25.indd 112

5/25/15 4:33 PM

Grand Hyatt GM Mr. Christoph Franzen (right) welcomes guests to The Grill

ntic Swiss musicians brought some authe tunes to match the atmosphere!

Photo credits: Imran Khan

The impressive selection of imported Swiss cheeses

SWISS GASTRONOMIC WEEK The Grand Hyatt April 30, 2015

Hotel GM Mr. Pascal Eggerstedt welcomes guests for a taste of Korean culture.

SOUTH KOREAN FOOD LAUNCH InterContinental Doha The City May 17, 2015

Members of the Korea Taekwondo Center put on a show of martial arts mastery

Chefs from InterContinental's two five-star properties in Seoul showcased their cuisine in Doha

113 QH June 2015 - May 25.indd 113

5/25/15 4:33 PM

IT HAPPENED

Photo credits: Imran Khan

med new The Sheraton Doha recently welco zsvar (centre) General Manager Peter Katusak-Hu

CINCO DE MAYO CELEBRATIONS Sheraton Doha May 5, 2015

Photo credits: Imran Khan

s Happy anniversary to all our friend at The Four Seasons Doha!

10TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION The Four Seasons April 29, 2015 114

QH June 2015 - May 25.indd 114

5/25/15 4:34 PM

Photo credits: Imran Khan

Ritz-Carlton Executive Chef Gael i Cruchet unveiled some special Qatar dishes ahead of the Holy Month

RAMADAN TASTING PREVIEW The Ritz-Carlton May 10, 2015

rt Two Michelin-starred Chef Norbe Niederkofler (left) graced Al Dana Italy of Restaurant with a true taste

DISCOVER ITALY MEDIA NIGHT Sharq Village & Spa May 20, 2015 115 QH June 2015 - May 25.indd 115

5/25/15 4:34 PM

PHONE DIRECTORY HOTELS Al Gassar Resort Banana Island Resort Doha by Anantara Crowne Plaza The Business Park Doha Marriott Hotel Four Seasons Grand Heritage Doha Hotel and Spa The Grand Hyatt Holiday Villa Hilton Doha InterContinental Doha InterContinental Doha The City Kempinski Residences & Suites La Cigale Marriott Marquis City Center Doha Marsa Malaz Kempinski Meliá Hotel Doha Mövenpick Hotel Mövenpick Hotel West Bay Doha Oryx Rotana Radisson Blu Sharq Village & Spa Sheraton Doha The Ritz-Carlton The St. Regis Doha The Torch Doha W Doha Hotel & Residences Wyndham Grand Regency Zubarah Boutique Hotel

4424-4881 4040-5050 4408-7777 4429-8888 4494-8888 4445 5555 4448-1234 4408-4888 4423-3333 4484-4444 4015-8888 4405-3333 4428 8888 4419-5000 4035-5555 4019-9999 4429-1111 4496-6600 4402-3333 4428-1555 4425-6666 4485-4444 4484-8000 4446-0000 4446-5600 4453-5000 4434-3333 4447-0000

HEALTH / BEAUTY

AHMED HASSAN BILAL GROUP

Amaoras RelaxationSpa 4408-4085 Angsana Spa 4434-3152 Bay View 26, Wellness Centre 4496-6410 Bio-Bil Health, Beauty & Spa Ladies 4493-4433 Men’s 4483-0989 Bliss 4453-5555 Bottega Verde 4483-4535 Coiffeur Française 4468-9211 Dados Beauty Salon 4498-0033 Diva Lounge 4431-8488 Doha Dental 4431-7766 Doha Marriott Spa 4429-8520 Ebn Sina Medical 800-2288 Four Seasons Spa 4494-8801 Frank Provost 4494-8844 Glow American Salon, Salwa Rd. 4468-9945 West Bay 4411-7652 GoodLife Chemist City Center 4483-9100 The Pearl 4495-3876 Guerlain Alfardan Spa 4420-8660 Habibs Hair and Beauty Salon 4413-0672 La Cigale - Ozone Spa 4428-8888 Medical Spa Villaggio 4451-7590 Patrice Salon 4485-4012 Ritz-Carlton Spa 4484-8173 Saray Spa 4419-5517 Six Senses Spa 4425-6999 Snips Salon 4408-4083

REAL ESTATE Ahmed Hassan Bilal 4442-8877 Trad. & Cont. Co. www.ahbqatar.com INTERIOR Forum Design 4456-8716 RESTAURANTS Chowking Salwa Road 4437-1212 4431-4411 Chowking Al Saad St. Chowking Al Khor 4411-8816/4411-8817 Chowking Mamoura 4486-6077 Chowking Holiday Villa 4411-5225/335 PUBLICATIONS ABODE/QH Magazines 4427-8416

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

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

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

HOSPITALS / EMERGENCY AMBULANCE, POLICE & FIRE DEPARTMENT

999

DOHA CLINIC HOSPITAL 4438-4333 EMERGENCY HOTLINE 4435-5999 AL AHLI HOSPITAL 4489-8000 HAMAD GENERAL HOSPITAL 4439-2222

RUMAILAH HOSPITAL PEDIATRIC EMERGENCY QATAR FOUNDATION FOR CHILD & WOMAN PROTECTION HOTLINE

4439-3333 4439-2948 4466-6671

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

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

4496-6000 4483-9360 4493-1499 4483-8812 4496-2000 4419-9000 4493-4205 4483-2555 4402-1702 4408-2334 44128150 4425-5777 4483-1802 4484-0888 4483-2202 4483-2238 4483-2111 4493-3330 4467-5681 4483-1585 4411-3230 4483-6231 4483-2030 6622-1552 4483-5886 4467-7627 4495-1300 4483-8880

116 QH June 2015 - May 25.indd 116

5/25/15 4:34 PM