Qatar Happening - March 2014 by Qatar Happening

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Bilal Penthouses feb DPS.pdf

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CMY

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Nestled serenely on the 19th and 20th floors, overlooking the azure sea and surrounding landscape, these magnificent penthouses provide their residents with a true haven. Each one is a tranquil, elegant setting for living and relaxing, ideal for romantic evenings and business entertaining alike. Here you will feel connected with the environment around you. The penthouses at Bilal Pearl Suites are in two exclusive options: Duplex Penthouse (4 bedrooms) Penthouse (2 bedrooms)

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QATAR CHOICE AWARDS 2013 WINNERS Favourite DJ Favorite Individual in the Roger Choueiry Hospitality Industry (A tie) Luke Noble and Houssam Chouman Favorite Newcomer Favorite GM Kevork Deldelian – Oryx Rotana Favorite Delicatessen Bakery & Chocolate Shop: Favorite Hotel Maya la Chocolaterie Oryx Rotana Favorite Stand Alone Restaurant Favorite Ramadan Tent Al Mourjan Ramadanak – Grand Hyatt Doha

Favorite South East-Asian Concept Favorite Spa Spice Market – The W Hotel Doha Energy Heaven Favorite View Favorite Family Ambiance Al Mourjan Italian Job – Radisson Blu Hotel, Doha

Favorite Event in 2013 Favorite Themed Restaurant – It's Time for Africa at Creative Concept Sealine Beach Resort Orient Pearl Favorite Nightlife Ambiance Favorite Fast Food Chain The Jazz Bar – Oryx Rotana Wrap it Favorite Fitness Center Favorite Café The Ritz-Carlton Spa Favorite Lounge & Pub Favorite Outdoor Venue Sky View – La Cigale Hotel Blue – Grand Heritage Hotel Favorite Beachfront Favorite Chef Sealine Beach Resort Chef Zarmig – Mamig Restaurant Favorite Arabic Restaurant (A Tie) Favorite Live Music Band Burj Al Hamam – Jazz at Lincoln Center – Doha The Pearl Qatar & Al Mourjan Most Hygienic Restaurant Favorite Brunch: Choices Al Liwan – Sharq Village & Spa Doha Oryx Rotana

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Thank you so much for supporting the third annual Qatar Choice Awards 2013 celebrated on February 9, 2014 at the Renaissance Doha City Center Hotel. The organizers are truly touched by your support, your spirit, and willingness to make the Qatar Choice Awards one of the most memorable events of the year.

QATAR HAPPENING (Organizing Partners) Moona Whitice Jorge Granda Deliah Furcoi Mimi Teferra Nerine Lourens

IFPQATAR (Organizing Partners) George Ayache Ziad Abi Abdallah Tina Abi Abdallah

IFP ACCOUNTS Claud Khaled Tamer Ali Dany Saade

ILOVEQATAR.NET (Organizing Partners) Khalifa Haroon Kevin Waller

GULF CRAFTS (The Trophies) Harout Bedoyan Razel De Castro

AL ISTEKLAL (AV & Lighting) Ayman Hamada Moh’d Hamada Dion Da Costa Elie Salameh

MAYA LA CHOCOLATERIE & THE CUPCAKE FACTORY (Novelties on Tables) Houssam Eldin Chouman

TRINITY TALENT (The Models)

DOHA JAZZ (Big Band) Chris Coull Tamas Marschal Keith Wilson James Kent Christine Wilson Sam Arts Matteo Gaspari Mike Pignéguy

Junita Hughes

VIDEOGRAPHER Alex Klim FLORIST & TABLE SET UP

CLASSICAL PIANO (First Act)

Love Gifts

NAYCOM QATAR (Branding and Design)

Sonja Park

Ziad Abi Abdallah Nithin Balakrishnan

MC (Host of The Night)

Rajesh Kottilingal

Atila Huseyin Hamad Al Amari

ENTERTAINMENT

Keyali & the Travelers Tocandira

HOTEL HOST Renaissance Doha City Center Hotel

QCA 2013 is brought to you by the following partners:

The QH Team wishes to extend its most sincere gratitude to everyone who helped shape this dream into a reality.

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Table of Contents

pg 92 The 7th Artistic Gymnastics World Cup

OUT CHECK pening.com

atarhap ion! www.q test informat la for the

MARCH MENT ENTERTAIN

EVERY ISSUE 11 Editor-In-Chief's Letter

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

QH Speaks

The best of our monthly social media

Events Calendar

118

It Happened

126

Top Picks

Urban Artscape

The Best Of Brazil

Pullout calendar with the city’s do-not-miss monthly events QH’s photo gallery of the latest happening events in Doha

Phone Directory

Need-to-know phone numbers

TURE ARTS & CUL

Cirque Éloize brings the pulse of the city streets to vibrant, acrobatic life.

Rip It With Tim

Famed British DJ and presenter Tim Westwood plays it loud at Qube

Mark Knight Live!

The Toolroom Knight takes over the decks at La Cigale

Party Hoppin’ Happenings 30

Dunes shines with the return of Avis Ellis and Juan Pestana

Entertainment Listings

Your complete Qatar Brazil 2014 March line-up

A Middle East Menagerie

The animals of ancient Arabia come to life at London's British Museum

Paradise Found

Mathaf welcomes prolific artist Etel Adnan

Arts & Culture Listings 46

Find out everything that’s going on this month

LIKE US ON FACEBOOK www.facebook.com/qatarhappening

For customer service and subscription questions, such as renewals, billing and account status, email info@qatarhappening.com 9 QH March 2014- FINAL.indd 9

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Table of Contents COMMUNITY 47

Top Picks

Leading Ladies

Inside the How Women Work conference

Back To Nature

Community Listings

The Qatar e-Nature app is changing the way we look at the country's wildlife Find out everything that’s going on this month

KIDS CLUB 59

Top Picks

Simple Ways To Reduce Stress

How to cope when work, kids, school and life become too much

Kids Club Listings

pg 48 Leading Ladies: Celebrating International Women's Day

Fun ideas to do with the kids

ING FOOD & DIN

IONS QH SENSAT

SPORTS

Top Picks

101

QH Recommends

A Cut Above

The 7th Artistic Gymnastics World Cup

103

An Elemental Escape

The competition heats up at Aspire Dome

We head out to the fish market with the Oryx Rotana's Chef Cristian Buenrostro

Paddle Away

106

Reasons To Fly

Mother's Day Special Listings

108

Land Of The Long White Cloud

110

Virgin Recommends

112

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

JW's Steakhouse at the Doha Marriott gets a new look and a new flavour

Catch Of The Day

Treat your mother right with these luscious offers just for Mom

Food & Dining Listings Find out everything that’s going on this month

Hit the open waters with Qatar's newest kayaking group

Constructive Cardio

The team at Absolute Fitness shows you why cardio conditioning is important for women

Sports Listings

Find out everything that’s going on this month

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

Call Details: Inquiries: Marketing:

Email: editor@qatarhappening.com

Fax:

info@qatarhappening.com jorge@qatarhappening.com

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Have Your Say: e.

Our favourite monthly must-haves We find our bliss at Diva Lounge's newest location in The Gate Mall Our pick of top destinations

Exploring the wild heart of New Zealand

The best monthly entertainment picks from the Megastore

114 The Dish On Qatar +974 4427 8416 +974 5584 4905 +974 4427 8415

Keep your finger on the pulse of Qatar with these top groups, apps and sites

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

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From The Desk Of The Editor-In-Chief

On the Cover?

Dear friends, Welcome to March! It’s a month that promises to be full of many activities and goings-on to launch you into spring. In this issue we have a particular focus on Community events, as March 8 marks International Women’s Day across the globe. We must take this moment to acknowledge and show our continued appreciation for the diligent efforts of Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, whose vision for education and global humanitarian work have made her a shining star among those who strive to improve the plight of women and girls around the world. This month in Community we have a feature interview with the organizers of the prestigious How Women Work conference happening this month, which offers both local and expat women with information, training and networking opportunities that help them in achieving their career goals. Keeping with the theme of celebrating women, March also sees Mother’s Day on the horizon and we're happy to bring you lots of special listings in our Food & Dining section dedicated to treating Mom. This year also marks the Qatar Brazil 2014 Year Of Culture and from one World Cup nation to another, we look forward to a vibrant 12 months of cultural exchange. Each issue we'll be bringing you full details of activities spanning the realm of arts, sport, cuisine, music and much more. Each month, in our Arts & Culture section you will have a full list of Qatar Brazil events at your fingertips and it’s a partnership that we are immensely proud of. On the sports front, the 7th Artistic Gymnastics World Cup returns to Aspire Dome from March 26-28, bringing with it a host of world-class gymnasts vying for the top honours. Aside from the Olympic Games there is no other gymnastics competition in the world as high-profile as this and it’s a chance for our local athletes to shine against the international competition. We bring you the full schedule line-up in our Sports pages, so be sure to head out with your family to take it in – entry is free and there’s even a kids’ zone with prizes to be won.

e Caught in a balancing act, a troup etry. member cuts the air with symm Photo Credit: Cirque Éloize

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. Publisher: The Art of Business Chairman: Ahmed Hassan Bilal Editor-in-Chief: Nasser Ahmed Hassan Bilal Executive Editorial Director: Moona Masri-Whitice Editor: Ashlee Starratt Finalizer / Production Manager: Srimani Welagedara Lead Designer / Brand Manager: Zahi Srour Photographer: Jessie Palanca Listings Coordinator: Marlynne Mallari-Dela Pena Web Coordinator: Imran Khan Intern: Chantelle D’Mello Sales and Marketing Manager: Deliah Furcoi Sales and Communications Manager: Jorge Granda Marketing Coordinator: Chet Tibayan Distribution & Accounts: Lanie Fillo-Pana Contributors: Mai Akkad, Amy Bassett,

Jacqueline Bodnar, Nadir Khamis, Danae Mercer, Jonny Parr, Shameer Elamana Pokkutty, Reem Saad, Charlie Sands, Gerald Tan, Lisa Travell

Flipping through this issue, we hope you feel compelled and excited by what’s on offer for March as we continue to bring you only the best of Qatar each and every month. Thank you for making us a part of your lives.

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

Nasser Ahmed Hassan Bilal

All rights reserved 2011, The Art of Business. Reproduction in part or in full is strictly prohibited. QATAR HAPPENING (QH) assumes no responsibility for content of advertisements. QATAR HAPPENING (QH) retails for QR 8. Bulk subscriptions are available for QR 5 each, for orders over 50. 2013

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QH Speaks

Tweets Of The Month @DohaMarriott

Did you know that only 1 in 10,000 oysters contains a pearl?

@GeraldoTan

Happy #Chinese New Year – may the horse bring you galloping success and great fortunes! #lunarnewyear

@cerwinx

Only in #Qatar you can find the worst parking space ever! Where? Beside Al Reem Tower @dohanews

@DavidRoads

You were born with the ability to change someone’s life – don’t ever waste it

best of the best We ask, you answer. Here’s the this month, plus from our social media top picks you’re saying! our Editor’s Corner. Here’s what

Editor’s Corner Wow, this is a big one! With so much on the go this month we had to devote some extra pages in all sections just to fit everything in. We’re not complaining however – the bigger the better we say! I recently celebrated my two-year ‘Doha-versary’ and in the space of those 24 months I’ve had the chance to witness the country grow and change even in just that short amount of time – and for all of us at QH, it’s been a pleasure and a privilege to grow along with it. Looking ahead at March, we have some feel-good features in our Community section on inspiring movers and shakers who are making a difference in Doha. March 8 is International Women’s Day so we sit down with Carolin Zeitler of How Women Work to find out how they’re helping local and expat women find meaningful careers paths for themselves in Qatar’s ever-evolving job market. And, of course, we have to mention this month's cover feature as we bring you an exclusive behind the scenes interview with Cirque Éloize director Jeannot Painchaud. If you're a fan of Cirque du Soleil this fellow Canadian production, coming to the QNCC the first week of April, will have you on the edge of your seat with its blend of street theatre and sky-scraping acrobatics. We’ve also got a plethora of parties on the horizon for March, with Global DJs bringing the Toolroom king Mark Knight to La Cigale, while British DJ and radio sensation Tim Westwood hits up Qube at the Radisson Blu. On the arts front, we’re back with more do-not-miss events for the Qatar Brazil 2014 Year of Culture, while the Doha British School is bringing the much beloved musical Annie to a stage near you.

@roosnamla

People care way too much about the number on the scale rather than improving the quality of their life #qatar

In Your Face

Women’s Day on To celebrate International ebook followers what Fac our ed ask March 8, we st. Your responses mo the m women inspire the here are some of the and ing elm rwh ove re we most vocal:

Shellane D’Souza

“My mom! Someone who has shown me unconditional love, made selfless sacrifices for our family, gave me everything she didn’t have and tops it all off with a contagious smile!”

Nelly N. Villarin

“A woman who’s not only having beauty, but a strong woman who will fight for what is right, has the courage to stand on her own and, most important, will love to do things for other without any regret.”

Sameera Noor

You won’t want to miss a day of events, activities and things to see and do, so rip out our pull-out calendar, paste it to the wall and get planning – it’s going to be a busy, fun-filled ride!

“Keeping your morals, standards and ambitions high in this man-made society with true identity.”

See you next month,

Sherry Susan Rajan

“Women who can talk sense as well as practice it….”

Rakesh Verma Ashlee Starratt Editor

“Beauty in the brains"

LIKE US ON FACEBOOK www.facebook.com/qatarhappening

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Entertainment

s k c i P p o T ’s This Month DJ Adrien Callier

W Doha Lounge & Mingle

The St. Regis Doha Reggae Is Back Thurs, Fri & Sat: Oyster Bay. Get into the rhythm of the Caribbean every Thursday, Friday and Saturday. Kick off your shoes, chill-out on the beach and enjoy live reggae music by Buggy Nakhente and the Fully Loaded band with singer Rhesa Garnes. Complimentary entry, tables with bottle service and bookings recommended. From 8:30 p.m. till midnight. For more information call 4446-0106 or email diningreservations@stregis.com.

March 26: Wahm. Lounge & Mingle with DJ Adrien Callier. Adrien continually amazes the social set, both locally and internationally, with his eclectic style of cross-mixing electronic dance music best defined as nu-disco and house. With a growing number of followers and new projects in the pipeline, Adrien Callier is definitely the next big name to watch out for in the Middle East. Strictly reservation and guest list-only. For more information call 4453-5353.

Hilton Doha Folk It Live Band March 5: Zawaya. Zawaya turns into an Irish Pub with Folk It – a band of three Irish and the perfect way to get in the mood for Saint Patrick’s Day! For more information call 4423-3333.

OUT om .c CHECaK ppening

atarh tion! www.qthe latest informa for

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Radisson Blu Pub Quiz March 31: Shehrazad. Let Geordie Andrew take you through his Pub Quiz challenge. Bring along your team of six players to test your knowledge against the best of Doha. Fantastic prizes for winners! For more information call 4428-1555.

Renaissance Doha City Center Earth Hour At Glo Bar March 29: Glo Bar will glow down as they participate in the global earth hour. Come and join them for the hour of darkness. Let’s save energy for a better world! From 8:30 p.m. till 9:30 p.m. For more information call 4419-6100 or visit www.westenddoha.com.

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Entertainment A street-side fire-escape set is a nod to iD's urban influence

URBAN ARTSCAPE By Jorge Granda Images courtesy of Cirque Éloize

With its mixture of urban streetdance and acrobatic spectacle, Cirque Éloize descends on the QNCC from April 2-5 with their circus hijinks in the stage production of iD. We talk to director Jeannot Painchaud and go behind the curtain.

public space, and to dance the city. An area for encounters, a site of passage, a hood where clans confront one another, where friendships are woven. Where love is created, and dissolved. If you look at the past 20 years, we have created 10 different shows. Each new show came with the desire and the pleasure to reinvent the circus. If you look at the big picture we have been exploring many different areas with the idea of always pushing the limits of our creative minds and artists.

JP: I imagined this show at the heart of a city, where the omnipresence of image causes us to lose our reference points. I sought to create an aestheticism at the crossroads of comic books, science-fiction movies and the rich universe of graffiti.

Sometimes as a creator you want to do more than one piece and you feel that it’s time to explore something different to surprise the public. We pride ourselves in exploring and combining new genres to reinvent the circus each time. The idea of creating iD began to take shape about five years ago… I was in Korea… From my hotel room, I had a view of buildings all around me. And I started to imagine artists jumping all over the city.

The decidedly rock, electronic and poetic music, coupled with the presence of video projections, highlight the show’s playful, energetic, youthful and urban aspects. In the middle of this city exists a public place. A public place, as a spot where one can seek refuge and escape anonymity, to express one’s individuality and affirm one’s identity, in order to reclaim possession of

I started to imagine an itinerary, trampoline, people that were jumping from building to building. That was my first image and it now corresponds to the last part of the show: the trampowall act. I was struck by the idea of freedom, the notion of going down into the underground and to let the young generation take over the city… and dance all over the city!

QH: Tell us more about iD, which is the troupe’s latest production.

QH: How did Doha make it onto Cirque Éloize’s itinerary? JP: As an artist, one of my major focuses is to meet… to meet art forms, to meet cultures, to meet people. It’s a pleasure to share our art with as many people as possible. Doha is a city that is open to the world, a business centre and it’s on its way to becoming a great tourist destination. Last summer, we brought it to Dubai – where it was received with great success – and we’re really pleased to finally make it to Qatar. QH: What’s your perception of the Middle East? JP: The Middle East fascinates me. Its flavours, its odours, its rich cultural heritage… The Middle East is an object of great curiosity. This year marks the 20th anniversary of the company and we’ve visited more than 40 different countries;

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we’ve been presented in more than 440 cities. Yet, still, to this day, there are parts of the world we’ve rarely ventured into. Such is the case of the Middle East. In recent years, we began seeing opportunities [and] the Middle East definitely appears to be opening up to the world. QH: The show incorporates circus disciplines and urban dance acts. What made you think that these elements would go well together? JP: Circus and dance are two disciplines that are close together in the movement to begin with. The similarities between dance and circus include the physical aspect of the work and the way that both acrobats and dancers prepare for a show. Both types of performance are choreographed – putting them together almost came naturally. At Cirque Éloize we had worked with dancers before in a previous show, in Cirque Orchestra (where circus arts were combined with a symphonic orchestra). Everyone involved had appreciated this type of ‘art’ [and] the type of music for the show, hip-hop, was a great basis for this type of show.

Above the big city lights, a silk-climber dangles

Both hip-hop and contemporary circus are relatively young. Both have been around for some 30 years and they’re becoming more known. And most importantly, both are deeplyrooted in the streets. The response was immediately positive. Hip-hop is very dynamic, so the show we created is very dynamic and attractive for the public. Before iD came out, our shows were deeply grounded in the theatre world, and the public and critics alike had really appreciated our combination of theatricality and circus. Our reputation preceded us and the audience knew that this new show would be innovative. In addition to that, hip-hop is spectacular in itself. Mix it with circus and you end up with an incredible combination. QH: Where does that initial spark come from when developing a new concept for a show? JP: All this, it comes from different places simultaneously. For sure there’s always something you want to share with the public, the question of the iDentity in this case was the centre of the reflection… how you fight to be yourself in the complexity of an urban world. That was part of the initial reflection, but the inspiration for the show actually came from music. Of course I get inspired by different things, movies, books and pretty much everywhere. But the music in this case, was my first inspiration.

A lively game of Double Dutch gets a new twist -- on rollerblades

QH: How did you, as a director, step into the world of circus? JP: I discovered the National Circus School in Montréal just after seeing the very first representation of Cirque du Soleil in Gaspé, Québec. I fell in love with the discipline and started circus as a hobby. Eventually, I became a circus artist. My goal was to travel the world through my art, and that’s exactly what I did! As an artist, I worked with different circus companies (including Cirque du Soleil), and I also worked by myself as a street performer. Then a couple years later, I decided to create my own company with a couple of friends that were all from the same island as me. We created our first show at the National Circus School; which at that time was situated in the same building that is now the head office of Cirque Éloize. The rest is history! We created the first show in 1993, so 20 years we’ve been travelling the world, realizing our dream of living through our art. n

CIRQUE ÉLOIZE PRESENTS iD Location: Qatar National Convention Centre (QNCC) Timings: Wed, April 2 at 8:00 p.m. Thurs, April 3 at 8:00 p.m. Friday, April 4 at 3:30 p.m. & 8:00 p.m. Sat, April 5 at 1:30 p.m. & 6:00 p.m. Ticket Info: QR 95, bronze QR 195, silver QR 295, gold QR 495, platinum QR 650, VIP QR 1,500, royal Tickets are available at Virgin Megastores in Villaggio and Landmark or online at tickets.virginmegastore.me.

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Entertainment TW: I like animated movies so it’s hard to choose an actor. My favourite movie is Training Day. I’m also a massive R. Kelly fan. QH: Which artist or fellow DJ would you like to collaborate with and why? TW: My DJ mentor is Funkmaster Flex and I’ve always regarded him as the greatest of all time. When I DJ in a club I always play all night so I don’t need to collaborate. QH: Tell us something about you that nobody else knows. TW: In this era of online there aren’t any secrets – it’s all out there.

Rip It With Tim By Jorge Granda

Famous English DJ and radio and television presenter Tim Westwood will perform live on March 27 at Qube in the Radisson Blu. QH gets nosy with the man behind the decks. QH: Tell us about the show you’re bringing to Qube. What surprises do you have in store for us? TW: [It’s] going to be on the set with the hip hop, bashment and Afro-beats. Going to rip it down like we do in the UK – big dawg style! It’s gonna be the hottest party the Qube’s seen since New Year’s Eve. QH: Are you familiar with the club crowds in the country? TW: I love playing in the region – I’ve had some of the best parties in Dubai. A lot of people while they’re on vacation come to my parties in the UK. QH: Describe the feeling you get when you’re on-stage? TW: I feel hip-hop is the most powerful music in the world. We live in the hip-hop generation. It’s a lifestyle brand and it’s the biggest music in the world. When I’m on the set ripping it down there’s no greater feeling. I was born to do this and I’m going to do this until the day I die. QH: There are so many hot-ticket DJs and producers nowadays. You being one of the first to become famous as an integral

QH: What are your future plans, any new albums or TV shows? TW: We’re working hard with our YouTube channel – Tim Westwood TV – which is now on over 200 million video views. We put out mix CDs all the time as free downloads on www.timwestwood.com. We’re in the clubs most nights. Life is blessed.

QH: What is your opinion An industry icon, Tim is set to artist, what are on reality TV shows such bring down the house at Qube your thoughts on as X Factor and American this? Do you think Idol? Do you think performers it’s just a trend or are have it too easy when it comes there simply that many more to making it big? talented individuals today? TW: Those shows are crazy – they find a lot of TW: When I first started there were very little big-selling artists. opportunities but also very little competition. In this new era of technology and the internet QH: What do you think about the there’s so much more opportunity, but as a Kardashians’ show and Justin Bieber’s result so much more competition. I think it’s current situation? very exciting now as there’s so much energy and talent in the game. TW: The Kardashian’s show is great – I wish Kanye was in every episode. Justin Bieber must QH: You must have interviewed plenty of live a crazy life – I really like him, he ripped a artists in your career, can you tell us about crazy freestyle for Tim Westwood TV! n the most fascinating/strange/awkward/ special interview you’ve ever done? DJ TIM WESTWOOD LIVE AT QUBE

TW: Each new era of hip-hop I have favourite artists. I was very blessed to have known the Notorious B.I.G. – he came over for my launch party when I joined the BBC and we did some great radio shows together. I’m a massive fan of Nicki Minaj and those moments have been caught on [my YouTube channel] www.youtube.com/timwestwoodtv. QH: Who’s your favourite singer or actor and what’s your favourite movie?

Location: Radisson Blu Timings: Thurs, March 27. Doors open at 9:00 p.m. Ticket Info: • Ladies free before 10:00 p.m. • Advance tickets QR 100 or QR 175 for VIP • Tickets at the door QR 150 or QR 250 VIP • Must be 21 years of age or older, valid Qatari ID and Qube membership required Contact: For more information call 4428-1428

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Entertainment

! e v i L t h g i n K k r Ma By Jorge Granda

Mega-star DJ and producer Mark Knight lands in Doha on March 20, entertaining crowds with his music at La Cigale. QH brings you all the details from the dance-floor.

ing of house Mark Knight is set to get crowds pumping this month with a special one-night gig at Club Seven in La Cigale. In a career spanning a decade, Mark currently stands out as one of the most prolific DJs and music producers in recent memory. In 2003 he created his own label, Toolroom Records, wanting to give a new direction to house music. Responsible for some of the biggest hits on the house scene, it went on to become one of the most well-known independent music labels in the world, with Mark being nominated for a Grammy Award. He’s performed at countless venues all over the world, topping the charts with his releases including hits such as ‘Man With The Red Face’ (feat. Funkagenda), ‘Downpipe’ (feat. Underworld), ‘Beautiful World’ (feat.Tiesto) and ‘Nothing Matters’ (feat.Skin). With a Grammy nomination for work on the Black Eyed Peas’ multi-platinum album The-End in 2010, three of the biggest-selling records on Beatport’s Best

Sellers List and an IDMA nomination for his globally-syndicated Toolroom Knights, Mark has proven his talents both on the decks and in the producer’s chair. As a DJ, Mark is recognized and admired for his incredible seven-hour long sets. He has headlined festivals and clubs from Ultra Music Festival Miami to the Terrace at Space Ibiza. 2001 was an important year for him as he became the first ever DJ to perform a live, concert-style show at the Brixton Academy in London. In 2008 Mark saw one of his dreams materialize with the launch of the Toolroom Knights radio show and podcast. The show is currently broadcast in over 30 countries and has an audience of over two million people. Do you think they’ll be able to hold that many on the dance-floor at Club Seven? We can’t wait to get out there and see! n

A master on the decks, Mark will bring his signature flavour to La Cigale

MARK KNIGHT LIVE Date: Thursday, March 20, Location: Club Seven in La Cigale Opening Act: DJ Jared McCulloch Ticket Info: QR 150. Tickets on sale at Virgin Megastores, Crepaway and at La Cigale. Table bookings also available. Contact: 5518-8008, or www.GlobalDJs.tv, www.djmarkknight.com or Global DJs on Facebook.

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Entertainment

Sundowner

Sessions Are Back The much beloved lounge night makes a comeback this month on the Al Dana Terrace at the Sharq Village & Spa. Doha's sunset spot comes to life every Friday with resident DJ Carl Roberts and very special guests. QH takes you there!

he team who brought you the original Sundowner Sessions on The Pearl are resurrecting one of the most talked-about events on the Doha social calendar. If you remember the popular lounge nights from a few years ago– and really, who doesn’t with its record-breaking attendance of 800 people in one night – then you’ll be stoked to hear of its revival. The venue has shifted to the Al Dana terrace at the Sharq Village & Spa resort, carefully selected as one of the only outdoor sunset vantage points in the city next to the cool waters of the Corniche. The ambience will be distinctly outdoor lounge, targeting a more laid-back mature crowd, with the natural afternoon chillout lifting the mood as the ‘magic hour’ lighting takes over in the early evening. It is the perfect place to continue your Friday brunch with signature cocktails being devised by their team of mixologists. They’ll also have the chefs from the Sharq’s five-star restaurants prepare a special light menu for those of you who feel peckish as the night progresses. Resident DJ Carl Roberts, regarded as a pioneer on the emerging Doha entertainment scene will be laying down a slick and sophisticated

mix of lounge-core into deep and sultry house grooves as the evening flows on. He will be joined weekly by special invited guest DJs selected to Relax to some chill tunes amplify the ambiance of with an ice-cold mocktail this amazing waterside venue as well as live saxophonists and percussionists to kick things up a notch. The Sundowner Sessions’ motto – ‘Where no two sessions are the same’, promises a different flavour every Friday to take you into the long, cool stretch of the weekend. The evenings will be themed to add a unique flair to each weekly experience, along with some very special surprises added to the mix to toast the occasion. The new Sundowner Sessions on the Al Dana terrace will be the ultimate open-air sunset experience for the mature crowd of Doha. A relaxed atmosphere, casual dress code and no need for memberships or entrance fees – it’s where you’re warmly invited to drink in the Arabian sunset, relax to the hottest soundtrack and enjoy some icy cold drinks. Just remember motto number two: ‘No entrance fees, no VIPs, no bad attitudes.’ Hope to see you all on the terrace! n

SUNDOWNER SESSIONS Location: Al Dana Terrace, Sharq Village & Spa Timings: Fridays, 4:00 p.m. till 1:00 a.m. Fees: Entry is free Dress Code: Casual Contact Info: Call 4425-6666 or visit www.ritzcarlton.com

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Entertainment

Ride-Along

in over 70 cities worldwide and 29 countries. And one of its best features is that you can land in any major city around the world, open the Uber app and instantly book a car.

Setting up an account is easy and free, by simply downloading the app. Once you’ve registered, you can then view cars on the road, request a driver, track it as it comes to the pickup location and then pay directly through the credit card on file. Finally, at the end of the trip a receipt will be automatically sent to your email showing the breakdown of all charges. Since they don’t accept cash, the whole process of booking a car and getting a ride becomes seamless. Uber works with existing limousine companies and doesn’t have its’ own cars. Uber acts as a technology platform that connects users with drivers and demands a certain quality standard from every driver. At the end of every trip the customer rates the driver and the experience and can even provide written feedback. In that way, Uber can determine which drivers they’ll continue working with and which drivers are not meeting their requirements. That’s how they strive to improve service in any city – not only by adding more cars, but also by ensuring that all cars provide excellent service.

Uber's got your taxi-to-go all at the touch of a button

If you’re tired of clamouring for a Karwa with the rest of the crowds after a night out, Uber’s got you covered. This new smartphone app will get you where you need to go. QH goes for a ride.

e all know that Doha is a city that’s primarily car-driven – pardon the pun. And many of us out there have had the experience of struggling to find a taxi and

then haggling with the driver over the cost of the fare. Now, with the new Uber app hitting the streets, transportation has become easier, as the smartphone application allows anyone to book a chauffeur-driven car at the click of a button. The company was started in 2010 in San Francisco by two friends who wanted to solve the problem of finding a car. Co-founders Travis Kalanick and Garrett Camp then thought: “How easy would it be if I could just click a button and have a car show up?”, and from that moment Uber became one of the fastest-growing companies around the world. After only four years it now operates

Uber’s debut in Doha has been positive so far – it’s a service that’s much needed, especially as the city continues to grow into a world-class destination. Right now, Uber operates out of New York, London, Paris, Los Angeles, Singapore, and Sydney to name a few, primarily launching in cities that are very much advanced and, so it seems, Doha will be a natural fit. Taxi! n To learn more about Uber or to download the app visit www.uber.com/app or the Apple Store online.

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Entertainment By Amy Bassett

We hit the open highway to the American West for the golden ticket of music festivals – Coachella and South-By-Southwest. Road-trip anyone?

Festival Fun Guide

f you’re headed Stateside this month or if you’re in a spontaneous mood and want to take a far-flung adventure, two of the biggest events in music are set to go down in March and April. You should go. From March 11-16 is South-By-Southwest (SXSW) in Austin, Texas. This is not-somuch a music festival, but a massive artist showcase, which sets the stage for literally thousands of brand-spankingnew international acts to present their wares to reps and bigwigs from the music world - and to you, the happy punter!

During the day, industry events such as a trade show and music gear expo fulfill the geeks at the Austin Convention Center, while by night, the city of Austin is awash with live, music shows at every turn. Bars, clubs, parks and public spaces citywide are transformed into performance spaces and overrun with journalists, A&Rs, band managers, label owners and the gen-pop, cramming themselves into every nook and cranny to (hopefully) discover the next big thing.

Musician Dana Falconberry strums for an eager crowd at SXSW

The official title of the event is ‘SXSW – Music, Film, Interactive’ and yes, if you want to go the full biscuit, you can check out the film offering (March 7-15) and the interactive offering (The World of Digital, March 7-11) but for the purists who want to take in all those new musical acts, a week of partying in Austin to all the freshest sounds could just be enough! Why go? SXSW is like getting a weeklong pass to Disneyland for music-heads. Don’t miss: Try to get yourself an invite to some of the side parties. Music commissions from different countries like to host ‘hangover breakfasts’ and BBQs and it’s at these soirees that you get treated to up-close and intimate performances. SOUTH-BY-SOUTHWEST (SXSW) When: March 11-16 Where: Austin, Texas Flights: From QR 4,300 (www.expedia.com) Tickets: QR 2,900 (but worth every riyal) Accommodation: Options, options, options.

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What do Outkast, Girl Talk, Chromeo, Ellie Goulding, Bonobo, Aloe Blacc, Flume, Bryan Ferry, Afghan Whigs, Muse, Queens of the Stone Age, Skrillex, Lorde, Pet Shop Boys, Nas, The Internet, Arcade Fire, Motorhead and Maceo Plex, all have in common?

Moby pumps up thousands of concert-goers at Coachella

Coachella 2014. That’s what. If you haven’t heard of the Coachella Music and Arts Festival, you’ve been living under a rock. Fact. Coachella is a desert music festival held at the Empire Polo Field in Indio, California, which has powered up year on year since 1999. It’s one of the biggest and most successful festivals in the US and one of the global heavyweights of the festival mafioso, up there with Burning Man, Glastonbury, Sonar. So why go to Coachella? The line-up is consistently one of the best. If you’re organized and you don’t mind mowing down obstacles, (read: other human beings), to get to the required stage, you can catch a dozen or more legendary global acts in the one weekend. The festival has billed every musical act worth their weight in hipsters; Iggy Pop, Beastie Boys, Red Hot Chili Peppers, The Pixies, Radiohead, The Cure, Daft Punk, Rage Against The Machine, Prince, The Verve, M.I.A., Arctic Monkeys, Hot Chip, LCD Soundsystem, Portishead... the list goes on. In 2012, Coachella upped the ante during the Dr. Dre and Snoop Dogg show by hologramming the image of deceased rapping legend Tupac Shakur onto the stage for ‘2 of Amerikaz Most Wanted’ and ‘Hail Mary’. Sigh. What will they do next? Why go? Fly to L.A., hire a convertible Cadillac, take a desert roadie with your buddies to Indio and enjoy one of the best festival bills on offer. Don’t miss: Legend has it that Danny DeVito has been a dedicated Coachella attendee from day one. Due to his being verticallychallenged, security now let him boogie in the press pit where he puts on dance show extravaganzas for the front row of the mosh pit. Look out for him. n COACHELLA When: Weekend 1: April 11 -13 Weekend 2: April 18 – 20 Where: Empire Polo Field, Indio, California Flights: To L.A., from QR 4,500 (www.expedia.com) Tickets: From QR 1,365 general admission to QR 11,300 luxury package deals Accommodation: Camp, glamp or book a hotel, the options are endless

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Entertainment

Party Hoppin’

Happenings

By Jorge Granda Images courtesy of The Grand Hyatt

For this month’s Party Hoppin’ column I decided to write about Dunes at The Grand Hyatt. Why? Because I believe there are only a handful of lounges in Doha that are super-sophisticated, yet can still cater to the hardest of party-goers. Also, soul diva Avis Ellis and Juan Pestana are back and are simply sensational!

hen one thinks about The Grand Hyatt, opulence comes to mind first. Head in to their majestic foyer and, located steps from the lobby on your left-handside, you’ll find Dunes. One of the things I love about this lounge is that you won’t encounter a pompous bouncer at the door scanning you up and down to decide whether or not you can get in or demanding to have a lady companion by your side if you’re a single guy. Dunes is spacious in every sense, with a large bar showcasing an array of different beverages. There are small tables allocated all the way till the back where you can spot three much larger tables for bigger groups. There are also plenty of big windows all around allowing the natural light from the outside to come through. Like the hotel, Dunes’ décor is upscale elegance. There’s a fireplace and chic lamps hanging from the ceiling and a small stage right at the very end for performers to do their thing. It’s a lounge that has style. Live entertainment starts at 9:00 p.m., but if you’re there earlier for happy hour there’s

still nice music playing, from pop, to rock and R&B. I would recommend arriving early and trying some food off their new menu, which includes pizzas, saffron rice croquettes, chicken wings, fish and chips, salads, and cold mezze, among others. The crispy wood-fired pizza and the saffron rice croquettes, with their gooey cheese centres, particularly hit the spot. Aside from the Dunes menu, you can also order food to the lounge from any of the other restaurants in the hotel. The main attraction at Dunes is the spectacular duo of Avis Ellis and Juan Pestana who are back in the limelight up until the start of Ramadan. They really know their craft and how to get people on the dance- floor. Avis is the vocalist and she’s from the USA. Before coming to Doha she was playing at Planet Hollywood in Las Vegas, sharing her dressing room with mega-rock-star Meat Loaf. Juan is Portuguese from Madeira and plays all the instruments and also sings back-up vocals. Together they are a powerful musical force. They play everything and anything you can imagine and they love to take requests, but their favourite

e, Avis and Juan With her powerhouse voic

are a dynamic duo

genres are soul, R&B and jazz. Watching them perform together is an empowering experience. I’ve seen very few artists that have the ability to captivate and engage audiences in the way these two can. When they go on-stage Dunes turns into the ultimate party hub. If you’re the type of person who likes to party but are fed-up with extremely loud music, super-crowded spaces and the half-hour queue to get a drink, then Dunes is where you need to be. n DUNES Location: The Grand Hyatt Timings: Sat-Thurs, 5:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. Fridays, 3:00 p.m. till 3:00 a.m. Average Meal Price: QR 75 Smoking: Yes Licensed: Yes Contact Info: For reservations call 4448-1280

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Entertainment

Shamrock Shenanigans March 17 marks St. Patrick’s Day, one of the most popular annual celebrations throughout Europe and North America. Think you can find a four-leaf clover in the desert? Maybe if the luck of the Irish is with you! In the meantime, enjoy our line-up of St. Paddy’s events happening all over Doha. CROWNE PLAZA DOHA – THE BUSINESS PARK It’s Saint Patrick’s Week!

March 17-21: Misturado Lounge. St. Patrick’s Day is back once more and Crowne Plaza will be celebrating all things Irish with five days of ‘Craic’ including a special Irish menu and your favourite Irish beverages. Starting at 4:00 p.m. For more information call 4408-7777.

THE GRAND HYATT Saint Patrick’s Day

March 17: Dunes. The lounge invites guests to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day. Guests wearing something green or shamrock jewellery will receive a welcome drink on the house. For more information call 7021-8094.

HILTON DOHA St Patrick’s Day Beach Party

March 14. Hilton Doha is kicking off the beach party season with a Saint Patrick’s Day beach party in association with the Gaelic Athletic Association (real Irish!). Enjoy entertainment with Irish band Folk That, some stellar DJs, and special prices on Irish drinks and cocktails, to make the most of your day. Free entry for ladies and GAA members. QR 100 for men inclusive of one welcome drink. From 2:00 p.m. till late. For more information visit call 4423-3333.

RADISSON BLU St Patrick’s Day Party

March 14: Shehrazad. If you want to celebrate St Patrick’s Day in style then there’s no better place that to do this than in Shehrazad. Join in as they host a traditional St Patrick’s night filled with live entertainment, traditional Irish food and drink. Starts at 5:00 p.m. For more information call 4428-1428.

RENAISSANCE DOHA CITY CENTER Champions Presents St. Patrick’s Week

March 13-17: Starting on the 13th the wellknown Irish band Shamrog, all the way from Ireland, joins Champions for St. Patrick’s celebrations. On the 14th Shamrog will hit the stage again and on the 15th the celebrations go on together with the Rugby 6 Nations. And to box out the St. Patrick’s Week Shamrog will have a final performance on March 17. Fee is QR 60 inclusive of entry and one house beverage. For more information call 4419-6100 or visit www.westenddoha.com.

THE RITZ-CARLTON Habanos Turns Green

March 17: Just because you’re not an Irish bloke doesn’t mean you shouldn’t celebrate St. Patrick’s Day. In order to raise a glass, Habanos offers special pricing on many Irish drinks, plus their Go Green Cocktail selection. For more information call 4484-8504 or email rc.dohrz.leads@ritzcarlton.com. n

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Entertainment Listings RECOMMENDS

All listin per hot gs are categoriz el. Inclu ed s to avail ability o ion is limited f priority given to space, with advertis ers.

EVERY WEEK CROWNE PLAZA DOHA – THE BUSINESS PARK Happy Hours

Daily: Misturado will re-open its doors one hour earlier for you at 4:00 p.m. to broadcast more live sport events this coming season. Don’t miss out on the special happy hours daily 2-for-1 promotion on all house beverages. We dare you to go somewhere else! From 5:00 p.m. till 7:00 p.m. For more information call 4408-7777.

THE ST. REGIS DOHA

Ladies Night

Wednesdays: Jazz at Lincoln Center Doha. Ladies, gather your girlfriends together for a night of cool jazz on a Wednesday evening and receive a complimentary signature cocktail. Buy one cocktail get on complimentary on selected mixed beverages. From 7:00 p.m. till 10:00 p.m. For more information call 4446-0106 or email diningreservations@stregis.com.

PROMOTIONS RADISSON BLU The Laughter Factory

March 10 & 11: Shehrazad. Three of the best comics present over two hours of club stand-up, direct from The Comedy Store in London. Both evenings are no- smoking events! QR 140 includes one sponsored beverage. Doors open from 5:00 p.m., show starts at 8:00 p.m. For more information call 4428-1555.

THE ST. REGIS DOHA JALC Doha Celebrates Women In Jazz

Buddha Bar’s DJ Nicholas Sechaud

March 28: Wahm. French-Canadian DJ Nicholas Sechaud is no stranger to the international club and fine-dining scene. Currently resident DJ at the world-renowned Siddhartha Lounge at Grosvenor House Dubai, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Nicholas has done a number of residencies across famed bars, clubs, lounges and restaurants worldwide, from Italy, Spain, Monaco, Turkey to Uzbekistan and the Philippines. Strictly reservation and guest list-only. For more information call 4453-5353.

DJ Jojo Live!

DOHA MARRIOTT Happy Hour

Daily: The Pearl Lounge. Unwind in chic and elegant surroundings and enjoy their daily happy hour with 2-for-1 on selected drinks. For more information call 4429-8444.

Pearl Lounge Theme Nights

Mondays: Ladies Just Wanna Have Fun. Gents QR 100, ladies get 3 free drinks between 9:00 p.m. and 12 midnight. Tuesdays: R&B and Funky House. Ladies get one free drink between 9:00 p.m. till 12 midnight. Wednesdays: Arabic Night. Ladies get one free drink between 9:00 p.m. till 12 midnight. Thursdays: Diva’s Night Out. Gents QR 75, ladies get 3 free drinks between 9:00 p.m. till 12 midnight. Fridays: Chillax Saturdays: Bollywood Meets Hollywood. Ladies get 1 free drink between 9:00 p.m. till 12 midnight. Sundays: Reggae ‘n Old School.

March 27 & 28: Jazz At Lincoln Center Doha. From Billie Holiday to Diana Krall and Ella Fitzgerald to Dinah Washington, celebrate women’s priceless contribution to music, performed by Dominick Farinacci and his band through the lens of NYC jazz. For more information call 4446-0000.

March 20: Crystal. Proudly presenting, from the heart of Beirut, Mega-DJ and producer, resident at Sky Bar Beirut and owner of Chocolate Bar Beirut, the legendary DJ Jojo performing live with an opening set from Crystal resident DJ Waylon Pereira. For more information call 4453-5135.

W DOHA Afro Beats ‘Big Friday’ With Boddhi Satva

RENAISSANCE DOHA CITY CENTER Secret Cellar

Happy Hour

Let’s Get Quizzical

KEMPINSKI RESIDENCES & SUITES MIX & FUSE Happy Hour

March 7: Wahm. Enjoy a night of ancestral soul with a blend of deep house and modern Congolese rumba, West African voices, urban R&B and Afro-Cuban rhythms by Boddhi Satva. Strictly reservation and guest list-only. For more information call 4453-5353.

Big Friday Night

March 14: Crystal. Crystal proudly presents, from the hottest parties in Miami, Florida, the number one saxophonist Matt performing live in Doha along with Crystal’s resident DJ Waylon Pereira mixing all the best latest tunes. Strictly reservation and guest list-only. For more information call 4453-5135.

Sundays: New York Steakhouse. Every Sunday in March from 6:30 p.m. to 11:30 p.m., New York Steakhouse offers vinos at retail price with the only addition of a corkage fee per bottle. For more information call 4419-6100 or visit www.westenddoha.com.

March 10: Join Champions Sports Bar & Restaurant for the best quiz night in Doha with a maximum of 6 per team to win the first prize of QR 3,000. Free entry, starts at 7:30 p.m. till 9:30 p.m. For more information call 4419-6100 or visit www.westenddoha.com.

HILTON DOHA Hola Hau ‘Oli

Daily: Trader Vic’s. Enjoy a very special happy hour and pay only QR 25 for your favourite ale and vinos. Signature cocktails are also 25% off. For more information call 4423-3333.

Daily: Zawaya. Go to Zawaya lounge for the happy hour with the best view in Doha. They offer you special prices on selected beverages along with delicious bites and a marvellous view of the Arabian Gulf. From 5:00 p.m. till 8:00 p.m. For more information call 4423-3333.

Daily: The Lounge. Socialize at The Lounge with the trendiest crowd in Doha while sipping your favourite cocktail and benefit from the 50% discount on selected drinks, cocktails and Tasting & Sharing menu items. From 5:00 p.m. till 7:00 p.m. For more information call 4405-3325, email restaurants.doha@kempinski.com, or visit www.kempinski.com/doha.

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Entertainment Listings Half Note Wednesdays

Wednesdays: The Lounge. One of the most successful nights out in Doha is back with the upbeat mixes from the DJ paired with funky saxophone sounds, a trendy crowd and the hip cocktails that have made it the talk-of-the-town night at The Lounge. From 7:00 p.m. till 12:00 midnight. For more information call 4405-3325, email restaurants.doha@kempinski.com or visit www.kempinski.com/doha.

Airline Flight Crew Happy Hours

Sat-Fri: The Lounge &Aroma. All airline flight crew can enjoy a complimentary 20% discount on the final bill of their dinner or drinks in Aroma or The Lounge when presenting their company ID card. From 7:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. For more information call 4405-3325, email restaurants.doha@kempinski.com, or visit www.kempinski.com/doha.

Unplugged Talents On-Stage With Kéyali

Tuesdays: The Lounge. Kéyali Mayaga and Kempinski support local talents throughout March in The Lounge. Six music groups in total will compete, two on each Tuesday (March 4, 11 and 18) at The Lounge. The three groups chosen by the audience will then compete with each other on Tuesday, March 25 and a panel of judges will decide the winner. The winning artists will have the unique chance to get a residency appearance every Tuesday in April at The Lounge. Join them and decide who you prefer most by posting your comments on Twitter with the hashtag #TheLoungeTuesdays and mentioning @Kempinski_Doha. Your Tuesday nights just got rhythm! For more information call 4405-3325, email restaurants.doha@kempinski.com or visit www.kempinski.com/doha.

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA New Happy Hour

Daily: Paloma. Enjoy their new happy hour with a special Tex-Mex express menu at unbelievable prices. Make your choice from a selection of appetizers, mains and desserts, and complement it with a selected beverage. Try a three-course Tex Mex Express Dinner Menu for only QR 99 with 50% off on all beverages by the glass. Offer is valid from 5:00 p.m. till 7:00 p.m. only, last order at 6:45 p.m. For more information call 4484-4919 or 4484-4444.

Big Night Out

Wednesdays: Paloma and Lava. Doha’s biggest ladies night with unlimited complimentary selected drinks for ladies. Dance to the tunes of Paloma’s new resident Sizzle band followed by two dance floors with resident DJs. From 10:00 p.m. till late. For more information call 4484-4444.

Hospitality Night

Sundays: Lava. Rock out to the sounds of DJ Yaser Zain and enjoy a 50% discount on food and beverage for hotel staff. For more information call 4484-4444.

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA THE CITY Karaoke At Hive

Tuesdays: Hive. Enjoy a unique experience at Hive every Tuesday where all selected beverages are at QR 25 and also a chance for the best singer to enjoy free beverages from 8:00 p.m. till midnight. For more information call 4015-8888 or email doharestaurants@ihg.com.

ORYX ROTANA Hospitality Night

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

Diva Tuesdays

Tuesdays: The Jazz Club. Every Tuesday ladies can enjoy one complimentary drink from 6:00 p.m. till 9:00 p.m. and after that enjoy a 50% discount on selected cocktails. It’s ladies night at the Jazz Club with buy-one-get-one free on cocktails, selected vino and bubbly and a 25% discount on any giant cocktails. For more information call 4402-3333.

SHERATON DOHA Ladies Night

Tuesdays: Irish Harp. Enjoy a great night out with friends. QR 100 for men with one complimentary drink, free entrance for ladies and free-flowing house beverages. From 8:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. For more information call 4485-4071.

Happy Hour

Daily: Irish Harp. Enjoy one of the happiest hour offers in town with QR 25 on selected beverages. From 5:00 p.m. till 8:00 p.m. For more information call 4485-4071.

THE DIPLOMATIC CLUB BBQ Donut

Daily: Looking to set sail on the Arabian Gulf, searching for an exclusive dining place or a fun experience? With room for up to 8 people the BBQ Donut will take you along the West Bay shores to enjoy unparalleled views of the city while savouring an exquisite dining experience. QR 180 including chilled juices, mineral water and soft drinks. Rental fees: 1 hour for QR 450, 2 hours for QR 800 and an additional 30mins for QR 200. For more information call 4484-7450 or email spa.recreation@dclub.com.qa.

THE RITZ-CARLTON Salsa

Sundays: Admiral’s Club. Come and dance to the beats of Latino live band, Salsa and Kizomba at Admiral’s lower floor. For more information call 4484-8663 or email dilip.kumar@ritzcarlton.com.

Retail Night

Tuesdays: Habanos. Enjoy a 30% value on your bottle of vino or spirits. For more information call 4484-8504 or email rc.dohrz.leads@ritzcarlton.com.

THE ST. REGIS DOHA High Heels Night

Wednesdays: Vintage Lounge. Step into the glamourous and elegant Vintage Lounge for a great night out. Ladies enjoy a complimentary second drink between 6:00 p.m. and 9:00 p.m. and 50% off selected beverages between 9:00 p.m. and 1:00 a.m. For more information call 4446-0106 or email diningreservations@stregis.com.

SHARQ VILLAGE & SPA Hotelier Night

Monday: The Cigar Lounge. Hotel staff can enjoy 30% off their total bill in The Cigar Lounge every Monday evening from 8:00 p.m. to midnight. For more information call 4425-6666.

Happy Hours

Daily: The Sea Lounge & Al Seef. You can save 50% on your favourite brands and house beverages every day at some of their most popular meeting places: Al Seef from 2:00 p.m. till 8:00 p.m., The Sea Lounge from 5:00 p.m. till 8:00 p.m. and The Cigar Lounge from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. For more information call 4425-6666.

SHERATON DOHA Shisha At The Cover

Daily: Flavourful shisha at The Cove is back! The cool evening breeze and breath-taking view of the lagoon set the perfect ambiance for a relaxed evening with friends. The Cove re-opens offering an aromatic selection of shisha for you to enjoy. Take your pick from grape, mint, cherry, strawberry and melon flavours. QR 100, open every evening from 6:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4485-4071 or email F&Breservations.Doha@sheraton.com.

WEEKENDS CROWNE PLAZA DOHA – THE BUSINESS PARK Liquidity Nights

Thurs, Fri & Sat: Liquidity. All ladies are entitled for free special cocktails from 8:00 p.m. till 12:00 midnight with live entertainment. Free for ladies, QR 100 for gents. For more information call 4408-7777.

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KEMPINSKI RESIDENCES & SUITES

Thursdays: The Lounge. The weekend starts at The Lounge. Squeeze Thursday till the last drop, have fun, and experience the most urban European bar in Doha along with beats from the Low Frequency DJs. Try out the cocktails of the future now. Ingredients: Love, fun and class. For more information call 4405-3325, email restaurants.doha@kempinski.com, or visit www.kempinski.com/doha.

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA THE CITY Disco Night

Thursdays: Hive. The resident DJ will spin the decks from 9:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. QR 50 entrance for men. For more information call 4015-8888, or email doharestaurants@ihg.com.

Bottle & Bucket Day

Fridays: Hive. Enjoy selected bottles at QR 500 and bucket offers from 5:00 p.m. onwards. For more information call 4015-8888, or email doharestaurants@ihg.com.

Gents Night

Saturdays: Hive. Enjoy any drink for only QR 30 for men on selected beverages. From 9:00 p.m. till 1:30 p.m. For more information call 4015-8888, or email doharestaurants@ihg.com.

ORYX ROTANA Boy’s Night In Town

Saturday: The Jazz Club. It’s finally Boy’s Night Out. Every Saturday gents enjoy a 25% discount on spirit bottles when buying cigars. For more information call 4402-3333.

SHARQ VILLAGE & SPA Barbecue By The Pool

Thurs &Fri: Al Seef. It’s that time of the year again! The heat’s off and the coals are sizzling. Take a seat by the pool and enjoy the finest al fresco dining at Al Seef for QR 215, from 6:30 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4425-6666.

Crew Night

Saturdays: Cigar Lounge. There’s 30% off the total bill for all airline crew every Saturday in the Cigar Lounge between 8:00 p.m. and midnight. Fly on down! For more information call 4425-6666.

SHERATON DOHA New Band ‘Back To Back’

Daily: Irish Harp. Get ready to party as duo Back To Back performs their rendition of rock chart-toppers. Germanborn Sabrina mesmerizes with her strong vocals, while Australian Adam accompanies with husky vocals and deft fingers on the guitar. Entrance fee is QR 50 for ladies and QR 60 for men. For more information call 4485-4071, or email F&Breservations.Doha@sheraton.com.

Ladies Night

Tuesdays: Irish Harp. QR 100 for men with one complimentary drink and free entrance for ladies and free-flowing house beverages for ladies until closing. From 8:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. For more information call 4485-4071 or email F&Breservations.Doha@sheraton.com.

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Entertainment Directory

Nightclubs, Bars & Lounges Admiral’s Club The Ritz-Carlton

4448-4800

Jazz At Lincoln Center Doha The St. Regis Doha

Pearl Lounge Doha Marriott

Bar Rancho’s Grand Regal Hotel

4425-6666

The Jazz Club Oryx Rotana 4402-3333

Belgian Café InterContinental Doha

4484-4444

Krossroads Horizon Manor Hotel

Bubbles on Two Radisson Blu 4428-1428 Champions West End Renaissance Doha Cigar Lounge Sharq Village & Spa

4419-6100

4425-6666

Club 7 La Cigale

4428-8888

Crystal Lounge W Doha

4453-5135

D’Illusion Gokulam Park Dunes Lounge The Grand Hyatt

Lava Lounge InterContinental Doha Le Club Mercure Grand Hotel Level 23 The Ritz-Carlton

Qube Radisson Blu 4428-1428 Rocca The Grand Hyatt

4448-1234

4445-5444 Shehrazad Radisson Blu 4428-1428 4484-4444 Sky View La Cigale

4428-8888

4446-2222 Spike’s Lounge Doha Golf Club

4429-8888

4446-0000

4496-0777

4448-4800 Splash Oryx Rotana 4402-3333

Liquidity Crowne Plaza Doha The Business Park

4408-7777

Strata Lounge InterContinental Doha The City 4015-8888

Madison Piano Bar La Cigale

4428-8888

The Irish Harp Sheraton Doha

4485-4444

The Library Radisson Blu

4428-1428

4470-8888 Manhattan Radisson Blu 4428-1428 4448-1234

Fahrenheit Horizon Manor Hotel

4445-5444

Misturado Crowne Plaza Doha The Business Park

Glo Cocktail Bar West End Renaissance Doha

4419-6100

Orion Radisson Blu

4428-1428

The Lounge Kempinski Residences & Suites 4405-3325

Habanos Ritz-Carlton Doha

4484-8000

Oyster Bay & Bar The St. Regis Doha

4446-0105

Vintage Lounge The St. Regis Doha

4446-0105

Paloma InterContinental Doha

4484-4444

Wahm W Doha

4453-5353

Hive InterContinental Doha The City

4408-7777

The Library Bar & Cigar Lounge Four Seasons 4494-8888

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Arts & Culture

s k c i P p o T ’s This Month

Qatar Philharmonic Orche

stra

Around The World With The Vienna Boys Choir March 1 & 2: Opera House, Katara Cultural Village. Han-Na Chang, music director, Siwar (JCC Children’s Choir), Nabih El Khatib, choirmaster, The Vienna Boys Choir, Bomi Kim, choirmaster. Performing some of classical music’s most well-loved arrangements to the stunning backdrop of the Vienna Boys Choir. Featuring Peter Ilyich Tchaikovsky’s Chinese Dance from The Nutcracker, Op. 71, Frederic Weatherly and Jane Ross’s Danny Boy and Leonard Bernstein’s Mambo from West Side Story, plus many more. Tickets available at Virgin Megastores, online at tickets.virginmegastore.me and at the Katara Opera House.

Al Markhiya Gallery Mythologies Exhibition

March 1-20: Al Markhiya Gallery, Souq Waqif. The exhibition will feature the paintings of Syrian artist Ismail Al-Rifai and the sculptures of Syrian artist Zahed Tajeddin. For more information call Heather at 6600-8750 or email heather@almarkhiyagallery.com.

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Al Markhiya Gallery Family and People Exhibition

March 24-April 25: Al Markhiya Gallery, Souq Waqif. Egyptian artist Mohamed Abla will exhibit paintings reflecting Egypt’s people both past and present. Admission is free. Open Saturdays to Thursdays from 10:00 a.m. till 12:00 noon and 4:00 p.m. till 10:00 p.m.; appointment necessary for Friday visits. For further information call Heather at 6600-8750 or email heather@almarkhiyagallery.com .

VCUQatar Lines In The Sand

March 12-April 10: VCUQatar Gallery. The exhibition uses interactive technology to construct a conversation between Qatar’s past and present. This exhibition will enable a critical understanding of the rich and complex history of Qatar through the intertwined relationship of culture and technology. For more information email Caitlin Doherty at cmdoherty@qatar.vcu.edu.

Mathaf Shuttle Service Ongoing: Have you hopped on the Mathaf Bus yet? Sponsored by Occidental Petroleum of Qatar (Oxy Qatar), the Mathaf bus connects cultures on the hour and operates between the Museum of Islamic Art and Mathaf: Arab Museum of Modern Art. The free shuttle service operates from Wednesday to Sunday from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and on Friday from 3:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. It takes about 25 to 35 minutes to reach either museum.

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Arts & Culture

l i z a r B f O t s e B The Images courtesy of Qatar Brazil 2014

The Qatar Brazil 2014 Year of Culture continues with these fun-filled family events for March. Qatar Brazil 2014 Family Day

QTA Food Festival

March 27, 5:00 p.m. till 8:00 p.m. Museum of Islamic Art Park To celebrate Doha and Brasilia becoming Sister Cities, a milestone that took place on February 23, 2014, the Qatar Museums Authority and Qatar Brazil 2014 will be hosting an afternoon of exciting activities for children and families at the MIA Park.

March 13-16 Museum of Islamic Art Park The Qatar Tourism Authority Food Festival will showcase foods from across the world in MIA Park this spring and Brazil will be guest of honour. Expect to see live cooking demonstrations by Brazilian and Qatari chefs working together to create unique dishes – part of the National Museum Food Program. Make sure your children attend the cooking workshops where they’ll learn how to make easy and delicious Brazilian recipes. Qatar Brazil 2014 will bring celebrated chefs from the Amazonian region of Para to facilitate live demonstrations and tastings of classic Brazilian food. Qatari food will also be explored by traditional practitioners and a National Museum educational interpreter who will provide historical context and cultural stories for the food.

Dusk To Dawn… Threads Of Infinity – An Exhibition by Pedro Varela & Carolina Ponte Until March 31 Anima Gallery, The Pearl-Qatar Acclaimed Brazilian contemporary artists Pedro Varela and Carolina Ponte bring the colours and energy of South America to the Anima Gallery in Qatar. Working in a variety of media including drawing, ink and textiles, based on the artists' work, VCUQatar will run a series of workshops and classes during the exhibition.

Feira Do Livro March 30-June 8 Belem, Para, Brazil Qatari and Arab culture and literature will be showcased in the international book fair in the Amazon region of Para, in northeast Brazil.

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Create & Inspire Young Artists Competition March-September Qatar and Brazil Crossway Foundation is a charity promoting creative collaboration and better understanding between young people across the Middle East. Following the success of their Create & Inspire competition, part of Qatar UK 2013 Year of Culture, the foundation will launch a new project inspired by Brazil. Winners of the competition from Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates will be invited on an expedition to Brazil to further their skills in their chosen discipline of visual arts, film or photography. They will have the unique opportunity to meet with local artists, galleries and museums across the country. The end result of this will be an exhibition of works inspired from their journey.

Chef Marcelo Petrarca will bring a taste of Brazil to the QTA Food Festival this month

Global Art Forum 2014: "Meanwhile…History"

March 15-16 Katara Art Center Titled Meanwhile…History, Global Art Forum 2014 reflects on the philosophy and fiction of making history matter; each interview, discussion, presentation or commissioned project is a point on this imagined timeline and features over 40 speakers and contributors from the worlds of art, architecture, film, literature, history, theatre and commentary. Taking place over five days – March 15-16 in Doha and March 19-21 in Dubai–the Forum becomes a journey through known and unknown histories, of critical change and seismic moments.

Children pose with Brazilian capoeira dancers. Come see them in action at the Qatar Brazil 2014 Family Day

The Global Art Forum was launched by Art Dubai, the leading international art fair in the Middle East and South Asia, at its inaugural fair in 2007. The Forum includes live talks, presentations, commissioned projects and research, and is known as the foremost regional platform for cultural debate, and one of the most innovative arts conferences worldwide. For more information visit www.artdubai.ae. n For more information on monthly Qatar Brazil 2014 events visit www.qatarbrazil2014.com.

The Global Art Forum is a melding of minds from diverse backgrounds. Learn how Brazil will be involved at this year's event

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Arts & Culture A chained lion. Painting mounted on an album folio, India c.1700, Ink, opaque watercolour and gold on paper. © The Trustees of the British Museum

Menagerie

A Middle East

By Danae Mercer Images courtesy of © Trustees of the British Museum

A new exhibit at the British Museum in London casts a spotlight on the animals of ancient Arabia. QH goes across the pond and behind the scenes.

ucked in a small room in the back of London’s British Museum is a special exhibit focusing on the Middle East. Miss it, and you might not catch these works again for years. "We tried to pick out items that hadn't really been seen, that don't normally go on display," explains Wendy Adamson, Senior Museum Assistant, Department of the Middle East.

delicate print pages depicting falconry to tiny statues of dogs. Working on a daily basis with materials hidden from the public view, Adamson and her colleagues are extremely familiar with the British Museum's offerings.

"A lot of the pieces are light sensitive. Seen too much, and they will fade," adds Museum Assistant Sarah Choy.

"We started out by picking our favourite pieces from the Islamic collection," explains Adamson. An animal theme quickly emerged. Cats, dogs, lions, falcons, and chickens all make an appearance. "It's like a mini-trip to the zoo, without the zoo," she says.

Consisting of approximately 30 pieces from the 1400s to the twentieth century, the Middle East Menagerie features everything from

If you plan on visiting, here are a couple things that those behind The Middle East Menagerie recommend you note:

The single-page paintings may have once been part of a book.

As you walk around, you'll notice many of the pieces are small drawings. "A lot of these works would have been in an album. They're almost like having mini-exhibitions, little mini-museums," says Ladan Akbarnia, Farjam Curator, Islamic Collections, Department of the Middle East. "We always think of art history as something that originated in 18th century Europe, but actually, there are notes in many of these albums by the emperors, saying 'so and so drew this'. There's a history of expressing your taste."

The thin man in the desert depicts a classic fable. Early in the exhibit, you'll pass by a painting illustrating two figures surrounded by wild animals in the wilderness.

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The Great Court at the British Museum © The Trustees of the British Museum

"Majnun goes into the desert and lives on his own because his love with his beloved can't be achieved. Any time you see a thin guy in a field in the desert, that's Majnun, which means 'gone mad'. But that's not actually his real name. That becomes his name," says Akbarnia.

The chained lion painting was probably a practice template for future artists. While lions were a common subject for painting, the piece titled 'A Chained Lion,' presents something unusual. "I found it really interesting. There's a chained lion, so the control of powerful beasts. But why is there a cooking pot? Why the leg of an antelope? I'm sure the lion can't cook his own dinner," says Choy. "Then when you start looking, you'll see the creases in the paper, which implies it was probably a practice piece or template. It would have been folded up and passed in the workshop between artists, who could copy the shapes and the lines." The power of the lion is deliberately echoed by the feline figure in the case, which will be on your right.

The importance of falconry. Several of the pieces depict falcons and falconry. One slims down a reportedly extremely overweight ruler while he's out hawking. Another displays a hood from the late 1800s that would have been used for hunting. And another depicts a noblewoman hunting, slightly unusual in the traditionally male-dominated sport.

Right: Red enamelled dog figurine, India, Jaipur, c. 1800-1900, Gold, enamel, diamond © The Trustees of the British Museum In Circle Above: Allah Khan II hawking, Painting mounted on an album folio, India, early 1700s, Ink, opaque watercolour and gold on paper © The Trustees of the British Museum Top Right: Raven addressing some animals, Painting mounted on an album folio, India, c.1600, Ink, opaque watercolour and gold on paper © The Trustees of the British Museum

Other things to watch for: As you go through the exhibit, notice the cat on the bottom of the flask. Pause to stare in detail at some of the smaller paintings, as these offer intricate but easily-missed designs. Enjoy the contrast between the two pampered pooch figurines and the working dog collar.

Exterior of the British Museum © The Trustees of the British Museum

Keep an eye out for the small notes detailing the favourite pieces of each Museum Assistant. "This is a chance to show things in the collection that otherwise people won't know about. There’s something special because you know it won't be here for a long time," says Akbarnia. n The Middle East Menagerie is on at the British Museum until May 18, 2014 in Room 34. Entrance is free. No booking is necessary. Danae Mercer is a freelance journalist. See more of her work at www.DanaeMercer.com

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Arts & Culture

Director Angela Walton smiles with her young cast for Annie

Annie On-Stage By Lisa Travell Photography by Jessie Palanca

The well-loved musical tale of the spunky, red-headed orphan Annie hits the stage this month at the Doha British School. We catch up with the cast and crew at their dress rehearsal.

his popular Broadway musical tells the story of Annie and her escape from an orphanage in a bid to find her parents. It originally opened in 1977, and has been performed countless times across the world. This month it’s set to delight audiences across Qatar when it’s performed at the Doha British School under the direction of Senter Stage Musicals. Angela and Stuart Walton first established Senter Stage in 2010 to promote arts and drama within schools. All profits are ploughed back into the school the production is performed at, and this year they hope to buy additional sound equipment for the Doha British School. “Last year, when we did Oklahoma, we were able to fund the extension of the stage,” producer Angela tells me. Angela was personally influenced by musicals at a very early age. “I was introduced to theatre in a carry cot,” she explains. “My mother was a professional actress and she was in Cinderella. She took me to rehearsals in a carry cot and put me under the stage!” It’s a passion she’s carried from cot to career, as she’s been directing musicals for over twenty years. Although it’s well known that you should never work onstage with children and animals, in

Angela’s case she chose musicals with children in mind, plus this production also includes a dog. “I wanted to do Annie as I love working with kids, plus the music is fun and everyone knows the story.” For Angela, part of the appeal of working with children is watching them develop. “It’s so much fun when you see a child that’s shy, then all of a sudden you see them blossom and bloom.” For Henry, a playful Bichon Frise, it will be his second production under Angela’s direction, as he was also in The Wizard of Oz. According to Angela, he adores the limelight, “Henry loves the stage -- he’s star struck!” Hayley Binnekamp and Emilia Doe both play Annie; two girls were cast in case one gets sick and also to spread the workload. They are excited as they tell me about their roles. “It’s really fun and so cool, I’ve never been in a big production before!” says Hayley, and Emilia adds, “Angela is a great teacher, I have learned a lot about acting from her.” Stuart and Angela have always worked closely together on productions. “He listens to me rant and rave,” jokes Angela, “plus he’s my best friend.” As well as assisting behind the scenes Stuart is playing President Roosevelt, “Everyone wants to be the president once in their lives!” he says.

Miss Hannigan's character takes it up a notch at dress rehearsals

Given Doha’s transient society it’s a wonder there’s such a pool of talent to keep putting on productions. Stuart explains that, in a way, that’s the beauty of living here. “A lot of people move on after a couple of years, but that can be exciting as at the end of summer you have new people arriving,” he states. After so many years involved in productions I asked Stuart if he still has first night nerves. “Yes, It’s a bit like a war; you are going into the trenches, you can die out there!” he laughs. “It’s a live audience and anything can happen on the night, but the audience do want you to succeed; they pay their money and they want to have a good time, and so do we.” n

Annie is being performed at Doha British School on March 11 and 13 at 7:30 p.m. and March 14 and 15 at 2:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Tickets are available for QR 75 and QR 100 at The One in Villaggio and Landmark Malls.

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Arts & Culture

Paradise

Found

CMY

Etel Adnan's career has spanned a life-time of achievement

Mathaf presents an exhibition of works from Lebanese-American visual artist, poet, playwright and essayist Etel Adnan. Entitled Art is one of the Roads to Paradise and curated by Hans Ulrich Obrist, it’s a thought-provoking blend of mediums with a message.

imilar to nature consisting of many dimensions, the artistic and literary oeuvre of Etel Adnan contains many different aspects. Through the exploration of this artist’s multi-dimensionality, the Art is one of the Roads to Paradise exhibition will highlight the diversity in her work. Providing an extensive overview, the display at Mathaf will include Adnan’s paintings, drawings, leporellos, tapestries, writings and films from the 1960s onwards. Addressing a variety of concepts such as identity, war, and the dichotomy of home in her work, the artist takes inspiration from both her surroundings as well as her life experiences. While Adnan views painting as expressing ‘la joie de vivre’, writing is the artist’s meditation on the

tragic side of the world. One important subject that is addressed in her writings is the Lebanese Civil War that lasted from 1975 to 1990. Through the 11 dimensions, Art is one of the Roads to Paradise will provide a deeper understanding of Etel Adnan’s significant oeuvre, while also giving the audience the opportunity to explore the various developments in her work. In addition to this, connections will be shown between the different fields in which she is active until this day, rather than viewing them as separate ‘particles’.“You know there is something that links all the different things,” she says. “It is what we call our person. There is a link that you don’t do purposely; it’s there, it’s your sensitivity, it’s your identity really….It’s one person in different rooms.”

A publication co-published by Mathaf will be released to coincide with the opening of the exhibition, and will contain many interviews with the artist by curator Hans Ulrich Obrist, writings by the artist, and essays by several other contributors, providing a significant insight into the art, writings and thinking of Etel Adnan. n ETEL ADNAN: ART IS ONE OF THE ROADS TO PARADISE Where: Mathaf: Arab Museum of Modern Art Dates: March 16-July 6 Contact: 4402-8855 or www.mathaf.org.qa

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CMY

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Arts & Culture Listings RECOMMENDS

Museum Guide

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

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

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

MUSEUM OF ISLAMIC ART MIA Library Visits

ALRIWAQ DOHA

Sun, Mon, Wed & Thurs: From 12:00 p.m. till 5:00 p.m. Browse the collection of books and find out more about Islamic art and the museum collections. Visit their dedicated children’s section. For more information visit www.mia.org.qa.

ONE OF A KIND

EVERY WEEK

VCUQATAR Crossing Boundaries Lecture Series: Massimo Banzi

IAID IAID Music Courses

March 26: The atrium at VCUQatar. Starts at 6:00 pm. Massimo Banzi is the co-founder of the Arduino project. He is an interaction designer, educator and open-source hardware advocate. He has worked as a consultant for clients such as: Prada, Artemide, Persol, Whirlpool, V&A Museum and Adidas. Banzi started the first FabLab in Italy which led to the creation of Officine Arduino, a FabLab/Makerspace based in Torino. He spent many years working as a software architect, both in Milan and London, and is the author of Getting Started with Arduino published by O’Reilly. He is a regular contributor to the Italian edition of Wired Magazine and Che Futuro, an online magazine about innovation. He currently teaches interaction design at SUPSI Lugano in the south of Switzerland and is a visiting professor at CIID in Copenhagen. Open to the public. For more information email Caitlin Doherty at cmdoherty@qatar.vcu.edu.

MUSEUM OF ISLAMIC ART Walk-In Gallery Tours

Thurs & Sat: Join their museum guides for a tour of MIA’s outstanding collection of Islamic art objects stretching back over 1,000 years and three continents. No booking required, just turn up! Starts at 2:00 p.m.

Sat-Thurs: Hilal St., Al-Tadamon Signal, D-Ring Road. Offers classes in Classical/ Modern Piano, Classical/Acoustic Guitar, Electronic Keyboard and Western Vocals. All music courses incorporate western notations and follow the London College of Music (LCM), University of West London UK syllabus. Examinations are held every six months at IAID by LCM examiners. Non-IAID students are welcome. Call 4432-0974/4441-1234 or visit www.iaidonline.org.

MATHAF Mathaf Voices Tours

Saturdays: Enjoy public tours of Mathaf’s exhibitions every Saturday from 12 noon till 4:00 p.m. Specially-trained local university students give exhibition tours from their own perspectives; perfect for those who believe art says something about our lives. Offered in both English and Arabic, admission is free, no RSVP necessary. For more information visit www.qma.org.qa.

See us online! m www.qatarhappening.co

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

QMA Gallery

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

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

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

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Community

s k c i P p o T ’s This Month

How Women Work Annual Conference

SOCIAL Exclusive Women’s Club

Book Reading

March 8: La Varenne, Tornado Tower. SOCIAL are celebrating International Women’s Day with a discussion about women and society, led by MohaDoha (Mohana Rajakumar), author of the award-winning Love Comes Later, the first novel in English set in Qatar. The event runs from 6:30 p.m. till 9:30 p.m. and tickets include a National Women’s Day gift bag, two SOCIAL cocktails and some sweet canapés. Ticket prices are QR 110 for members and QR 150 for non-members. For more information visit the SOCIAL Exclusive Women’s Club Facebook page.

Fanar Doha College Spring Fayre March 22: West Bay Campus, behind University Petrol Station. Includes a car boot sale, a craft fair, refreshments and lots of fun and games for the children. Runs from 10:00 a.m. till 2:00 p.m. To reserve a table or car boot space email fdc@dohacollege.com.

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Spoken Arabic Lessons Sun & Tues: Fanar Cultural Center. The spoken course is a personalized to the level of each student and will focus on communicative functions required in the day-to-day language. These include greetings and getting to know people, asking and answering essential questions, numbers , and other topics that help for a better understanding of the society. In this course all the above-mentioned conversational topics are written by transliteration – Arabic words written in English letters. For more information call 4250-1732.

March 5 & 6: Crowne Plaza Doha – The Business Park. This event aims to empower women to succeed by offering access to tools, mindsets and knowledge enabling them to develop the confidence and ability to grow as an individual as a professional. With guest speakers, workshops, forums, panel discussions and breakout groups, this year’s event fosters an atmosphere of community spirit allowing each woman to show her best, to discover her authenticity and let it shine brightly. It’s a safe environment that encourages exploration and growth, interaction and connection to inspire fulfilling careers. Tickets available at Virgin Megastores or online at tickets.virginmegastore.me. For more information visit www.hwwqatar.com.

VCUQatar Functional Hand-Built Ceramics March 10 - April: Offered two days a week on Mondays and Wednesdays, from 9:00 am till 12:00 noon. Cost is QR 1,200.This course will serve as an introduction to and investigation of ceramic material and processes. Students will be provided with the opportunity to concentrate on beginning hand-building techniques that they will then use to create functional pieces. Fundamental techniques of hand building with clay: pinch, coil, and slab techniques will be studied. For more information call 4402-0555.

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Community Carolin Zeitler is a force for change in her community when it comes to the needs and roles of women in the workplace

Leading Ladies By Chantelle D’Mello Selected photography by Jessie Palanca

We celebrate International Women’s Day with an in-depth look at the How Women Work conference on March 5-6 at The Crowne Plaza Doha – The Business Park, and how it’s changing the game for female job-seekers.

hree hundred participants. Two days. Sixty speakers. One woman. Carolin Zeitler, founder of Tataowar Coaching and Consulting, is a force to be reckoned with. With roots in both England and Germany, Carolin brought her years of consulting experience to Qatar in 2007. Finding no avenue for businesswomen to interact on a professional level, she started These Women Meet Business, a group where women could engage, educate, and enrich each other. “We were very different women. Different ages, backgrounds. Everything was different. But we could all identify with each other’s stories. Because the challenges and hopes and dreams that we had were similar,” says Carolin. The success of the 10-12 member-strong group spurred Carolin to consider amplifying the experience.

“After a while, we felt like it would be great to make this accessible to more women like us. So why not have a conference? We started thinking about creating a platform for women with ambitions and aspirations,” she says. The How Women Work conference, now in its fifth year, has grown exponentially since its inception in 2009. The event, with its interactive format, featuring workshops, talks, panels, breakout groups, and debates, has drawn over 600 people over the years.

Participants mingle and meet at last year's

conference

Carolin’s brainchild. “It was a completely new concept [to Doha]. Coaching is looking at the individual, at their personal strengths and weaknesses, and how they can best use them to communicate effectively, to negotiate, to do things where personality plays a role,” she says.

This year, the event is divided into streams, allowing women at different stages of their professional careers, be it job-seekers, entrepreneurs, or those looking to re-invent themselves to tailor the conference to their individual needs.

Today, Tataowar handles clients across the local corporate strata. Companies constantly approach the agency for help on how to make their employees more ‘professional, engaged, and passionate’. “We go into companies and help them. We do consulting on an institutional level, and coaching on an individual level, especially team leaders and managers,” says Carolin. The coaching lasts between a few weeks to a few months, with Carolin and her team tracking progress between sessions and integrating theory with practice in the workplace.

Tataowar, the coaching company that is the driving force behind the conference too is

While her company trains both men and women, the conference focuses exclusively on women.

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A mother to a 16-year-old daughter, Carolin understands the concerns of women in the workplace on a personal level. Her years of experience in balancing both lives have lent her a steadfast belief in a woman’s ability to have the best of both worlds. “If you organize yourself, you can be there for your child, and spend time with your child, while still having a career”

Breakout groups and one-on-one sessions make up an important part of the two-day event

One of the predominant problems women today face, she says, is making their voices heard. Often, it’s the gender imbalance in the workplace that hinders them, leaving them tiptoeing the thin line between bossy and matronly. Similar issues are tackled during the HWW conference, where women are coached on how to leverage their strengths against their weaknesses to further themselves in their careers. Over the years, the conference has transcended its boundaries to become a community. To keep the cohesiveness and togetherness that has become integral to the conference, Tataowar also organizes other smaller sessions throughout the year. Mastermind and Soul Sisters are just two of many such events. These two support groups join an impressive array of smaller conferences and workshops that target

women working in specific fields, or those with certain skill sets to give working women a comprehensive experience. Carolin attributes the increasing presence of women to the implementation of the Qatar National Development Strategy. “What we’ve seen is that women have more and more of a voice because…there have been very concrete goals for women in the workplace. Qatar aims to have more than 42% of women in the workplace by 2016, and [to] increase the women in leadership by 30% between 2011 and 2016.” Companies today are more invested in attracting and retaining female talent, proactively adhering to the country’s development goals. Education too, she says, has played an important role, with world-class universities and accessible tertiary education empowering women further.

This year’s conference, held at The Crowne Plaza Doha Business Hotel from March 5-6 under the theme ‘Inspiring Fulfilling Careers,’ is a testament to a woman’s willpower and resilience. Fuelled by a team of volunteers from planning to implementation, it will feature several new aspects, including an interactive mobile networking app for attendees. “We’re definitely looking forward to this one. It will be a celebration,” says Carolin. n HOW WOMEN WORK CONFERENCE 2014 Location: Crown Plaza Doha – The Business Park Dates: March 5, 8:00 a.m. till 5:00 p.m. March 6: 8:00 a.m. till 2:00 p.m. Ticket Info: Tickets available at Virgin Megastores or online at tickets.virginmegastore.me.

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Community

A Life’s Work By Charlie Sands Photography by Shameer Elamana Pokkutty at Creative Design

We speak to Khaled Kamal, the man behind Qatar Orphan Foundation or 'Dhreima', about changing attitudes and creating a new approach to orphans to give them the best possible start in life.

haled Kamal sits at his desk in his office at the Qatar Orphan Foundation's (QOF) spacious and well-tended facility in the heart of Doha. He has a mountain of paperwork to attend to, yet still devotes half a morning to explaining his vision to re-write the rules for orphans in Qatar. Before 2007, says Khaled, “There wasn't a facility to deal with orphaned kids and there was no system in place, so they all went to Rumailah Hospital.” Khaled had begun thinking about what he could do to help orphans in his home country after visiting orphanages and foster homes in the United States during his studies. Then, years later, his dream came into being when he established QOF in 2003 under the patronage

of Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser. But although it existed in formality, it would be four years of hard work before the Qatar Orphan Foundation would start caring for the welfare of orphans. Khaled looks back on the beginnings of QOF and says: “It was very hard work, because we had no experience at that time, we had to go out and visit other countries in the GCC, and we also visited orphanages in Europe and America – during which time we found a lot of children were living in orphanages. I had this idea on the table and when you believe in something you defend your belief, because I truly think that children should not grow up in an orphanage, so I discussed this with others here to see if this was the right thing to do,” he explains.

Khaled Khamal has been the driving force behind improving the lives of orphans in Qatar

“My goal is that there is not one single orphan living here, that they will all be with families; and that if these children grow up in families then it's better than any seven-star orphanage.” Pre-2007 orphaned children in Qatar were kept in Rumailah Hospital as there wasn't a proper process for adoption. If a couple wanted to adopt they visited the hospital, took down the bed number of the child and went to court to get an adoption paper signed. Another of Khaled's firmly-held beliefs and one of the core missions of the Qatar Orphan Foundation is to change the views of society. He says: “We sat around and discussed this issue in detail because people saw children as the responsibility of the orphanage but we wanted people to see orphans as the responsibility of the whole society. It should be everybody's concern.” In order to help convey its message to the people, QOF implemented a plan to reach out to people at the Friday mosque services. Khaled says: “We tell them it's looked on as a very good thing as a Muslim to take these children and look after them. Equally, sometimes people who

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Staff and children from Dreima enjoy a tour of Qatar Airways aircraft

are interested in finding out more about adoption simply don't know where to go or who to call so we need to let people know about us.” There are various reasons why children need the help of QOF. Khaled cites substance abuse problems, children of unknown parentage, or the deaths of both parents as examples of cases in which children have required their services. In these situations children are brought to Dhreima to be cared for until they can be reunited with their family or nearest relations, or until such a time as they can be adopted by families in Qatar.

“My goal is that there is not one single orphan living here, that they will all be living with families.” “All the planning and hard work has been a success because now people know about us and the work that we do,” he says. “Whereas before we had a lot of babies but not many people coming forward to adopt, now we have a long waiting list of people who want to adopt and a strict and lengthy procedure for adoption. We make sure the family is right for the child and the child will be properly looked after by the family.“

Children from Dreima enjoy the festivities at the 'A Flower Each Spring' event, an initiative implemented by H.H. Sheikha Moza bint Nasser

There are currently more than 50 families waiting to adopt, but over 150 applications sitting on Khaled's desk. QOF has also been the driving force behind recent changes to Qatari law regarding the rights of children and adoption in the country. These include a law to make sure the adopted child shared the name of the adopting family, and another to make it easier for parents to take their adopted child out of the country. Khaled reflects on the fruits of his labour, and shows his unwavering determination to carry on his life's work: “A lot of things have changed in a positive way, and we will always try to make

life better and better for orphans in the years ahead, this is our mission.” For more information visit www.q-orphans.org or call 4458-9444. Note, at the present time only Qatari families may adopt orphans in Qatar. n The dhreima flower is natural vegetation which grows in the State of Qatar. It was chosen as the symbol of the foundation because it signifies strength and grows in hard ground and tough climatic conditions. The flower is beautiful with blue and violet colours, and it reflects the beauty and innocence of all children.

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Community

The EWB-Qatar chapter poses for a group shot at their Education City BBQ event EWB-Qatar member Milak Palapura bonds with villagers on a job-site in rural India

Building Blocks By Mai Akkad Images courtesy of Engineers Without Borders Qatar

Working to create sustainable infrastructure in developing communities around the globe, Qatar’s branch of Engineers Without Borders strives to change the world, one nail at a time.

hink of all the rudimentary infrastructure, unclean water and poor sanitation that are integral parts of third world countries. You might think it would take an enormous international committee to tackle these issues. However, in Qatar, there’s a growing, potent group that implements fundamental projects in developing countries to solve these life-threatening problems. They are Engineers Without Borders, Qatar (EWB-Qatar). Launched in 2011 with the guidance of Texas A&M University at Qatar (TAMUQ), this nonprofit humanitarian organization currently has 20 members including students and professionals from various universities and companies such as

Qatar University, Ooredoo, and the Ministry of Municipality and Urban Planning, to name a few. “EWB-Qatar allows its members to enhance and practice their skills and abilities by managing and implementing sustainable engineering projects in local and international communities towards the betterment of societies,” says Deema Almasri, president of EWB-Qatar. Last year, the team flew to India for an assessment trip to inspect the different problems that the villagers of Chakarpur and Milak Pallapura are facing.The team uncovered several infrastructure and community development problems in these villages. “For the infrastructure, a proper drainage system is non-existent, which is the main cause of diseases. Waste water flows on the sides of the houses,” says Safwan Ghannam, project leader of EWB-Qatar. “Also, access to the village is hard. There is no proper road and in case of bad weather, it could be isolated. Inside the village, there are no proper pavements or cemented roads. The electricity is limited in the village and not available for everyone. These conditions limit the villagers’ mobility, which is essential for their daily life.” Apart from that, there are also several community development issues that loom in

these villages. “We noticed that the kids in the village are not attending school – only around five per cent do,” explains Ghannam. “The villagers have lost hope and the will to change their life-style. The dowry system is one of the major problems in the Indian community. Girls stay at home until their parents raise enough money to marry them off.” After scrutinizing these villages, EWB-Qatar sees that the most urgent issue is sanitation and is in the process in setting up a proper drainage and water treatment system.

CMY

Student members have expressed great enthusiasm about working in EWB-Qatar. Maria Orillano, a graduate student in TAMUQ says “EWB-Qatar provides passionate students, professionals and non-governmental organizations the opportunity to work synergistically to develop and execute projects that provide engineering solutions to existing problems in third world countries. That can involve designing and implementing a sustainable water treatment facility in a village, fixing the drainage system or setting up a simple processing plant to make economical use of the natural resources available in a village.” n To learn more about EWB-Qatar, visit their Facebook page or send an email to ewbqatar12@gmail.com.

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Bilal Pearl Suites Jan'14 .pdf

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CMY

Quality Of Life At Bilal Pearl Suites

Experience luxury in every living space - kitchen, bathroom, bedroom, dining and living area has been intelligently designed to create an experience that stands apart. Luxury one and 2 bedroom apartments at the most glamorous address in The Middle East â&#x20AC;&#x201C; The Pearl , Qatar

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Community Sasol Qatar Corporate Affairs Manager, Jack Saba

A falcon native to Qatar takes flight in the desert

Back To Nature By Chantelle D’Mello Selected photography by Jessie Palanca

A new, homegrown app is making the birds, insects and plants of Qatar accessible at the click of a button. Sasol and the Friends of the Environment Center have partnered to create Qatar e-Nature, an educational smartphone application that is leaving its marks in and out of the classroom.

nvironmental efforts in Qatar are getting a digital face-lift. In conjunction with local non-profit organization Friends of the Environment Center, Sasol, a South Africanbased international energy and chemical company and joint venture partner in ORYX GTL, will kick off a contest on March based on their recently-launched Qatar e-Nature app. The two-month long competition targeting students will bring attention to environmental awareness via the Qatar e-Nature app. This new, online approach to educating today’s youth about nature takes cues from the increasing pervasiveness of technology in our lives. Sasol follows in the footsteps of other local corporations like Ooredoo and the Traffic Department that have created smartphone apps to better engage with their audiences. “We spent around a year [gathering] the information and the data with Friends of the Environment Center, fully supported by its Founder and Chairman Dr. Saif Al Hajari,” says Sasol Qatar Corporate Affairs Manager, Jack Saba. “There are pictures, bird sounds, flora, and

insects. We will keep on upgrading Qatar e-Nature app to include marine life, and other aspects related to nature in Qatar.” “For the competition, students will need to browse the app for information about Qatar’s nature, and will have to answer questions online about it through their mobile device or computer,” says Saba. Winners will be recognized during a special ceremony in May. Schools with the largest amount of participating students will also be rewarded. Besides the environmental focus, Sasol’s dedication to the Qatari community is codified in the Corporate Social Responsibility strategy that is at the core of the company. During the past couple of years, Sasol has been a curator of talent, bringing people who have pushed the limits of human achievement to Doha, and raising awareness of various issues within the community. In 2012, Sasol, in collaboration with the Qatar Olympic and Qatar Paralympic Committee, brought the South African wheelchair basketball team to Doha to play against the Qatari handball team under their ‘Definitely Able’ campaign, which serves to highlight the achievements and abilities of people with special needs on an international stage. In another project under their ‘Definitely Able’ campaign, Sasol will host the first-ever Middle Eastern performance of the British Paraorchestra in Qatar on April 4, 2014. “They performed during the closing ceremony of the Paralympic Games in London, and we liked…what they [did] which supports the cause of Sasol's Definitely Able campaign…so we invited them to join us for a week at the end of March/early April,” says Saba. “[They will]

spend time with Shafallah students, and visit other disabled centres, and some schools, and perform a concert on April 4th in Katara’s Opera House. It is our mission to drive awareness that you are powered by the abilities that you do have, and not by your disabilities,” says Saba. The integration of Sasol’s South African values and social responsibility strategies with the pillars of Qatar’s National Vision 2030 fuels Sasol’s various community initiatives, explains Saba. Sasol will again be involved in this year’s Qatar Petroleum Environment Fair taking place on April 23-26 at QNCC – an annual event focusing on educating children on environmental issues relevant to the country, by hosting an international play that talks about water conservation, which is the theme of this year’s fair. “We try to incorporate our efforts in-house too,” says Saba. “Here at Sasol, we recycle, have health-awareness programs, save paper and energy. We do our bit.” Now students and the wider public can also do their part in learning more about the plant and wildlife native to Qatar so that they may, through education and awareness, preserve its biodiversity and its environment. n To learn more about the Qatar e-Nature app download it for free from the Apple Store, Google Play, Blackberry World, Windows Phone Store, or visit www.enature.qa.

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Community investments and savings that you have ear-marked to help with funding your retirement years. You need to know the position you’re currently in so that you can plan for the future. You also need to know that the plans you currently have in place are fulfilling their intended requirements.

Retirement planning should be an attainable goal for you and your spouse

By The Numbers Retirement – the dreams and the reality. AES International shows you how to start planning for your golden years now.

veryone looks toward retirement with a misty-eyed dream of travel, luxury and fun! No more work, so time to be spent with loved ones and living the life you have worked towards for maybe forty years. However, with the world’s state, retirement ages keep getting later and later. With less AES International are a multi-award winning financial services group, specializing in helping expats. For more information about their services visit the website at www.financial-advice.qa or email them at advice@aesinternational.com.

corporate sponsorship of pension schemes and poor advice and market performance impacting on the value of your retirement savings, what can you do to make sure that you get the retirement you want, and when you want it? If you break down your retirement planning into three parts it might help you reach a successful resolution.

The first thing you should do is analyze your existing retirement contributions and planning. This should include state benefits that you have accrued, personal pensions and occupational schemes that you’ve already contributed to, and

• Is your pension in the right format? You’re off-shore, would your pension be better suited off-shore with you? • Is the tax situation of your current planning correct? • Are your pensions sitting in the correct investment funds? • Are you paying the correct level of charges?

Where do you want to be? If you don’t have something to aim for, how will you know if you’re achieving your goals? Do you want to retire off-shore or on-shore? What will be the tax significance of your decisions? What are the costs involved? What do you want to achieve in retirement? Is getting by good enough? What are your dreams and aspirations?

Now you know what you want, how do you achieve it? What products and plans are available to achieve your goals? What opportunities are available to you?

CMY

It becomes more apparent every day that the only way that you’ll achieve the retirement you want is if you provide it for yourself. No matter where you’re from, where you’re living now or where you want to retire. Expert advice is available that can help turn your dream retirement into a reality.

For more information or to receive a guide to retirement planning, please contact AES International at advice@aesinternational.com or take a look at their website at www.financial-advice.qa. n

ENTER AND WIN! Every month we’ll be running a competition as a bit of fun. This month the prize is brunch for two at Market by Jean-Georges in the W Doha. This month’s question is – who won the Ladies Total Open Tennis here in Doha in February? Please send your answers to advice@aesinternational.com and we’ll select and post the winners on our Facebook page at AES QATAR, and Tweet the result @AESQatar, so give us a follow.

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AHB Listings - March 2014 - FTP.pdf

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ubity Listings mm Clun Cods Ki RECOMMENDS

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

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

Doha Players

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

Egyptian Women’s Association 5572-4171

French-Speaking Ladies Group 5559-7467

IAID Zumba

Sat-Thurs: Hilal St., Al-Tadamon Signal, D-Ring Road. Zumba is the latest dance fitness craze spreading fast worldwide. This upbeat workout is fantastic for kids and adults alike. Zumba is an exhilarating class filled with good feelings and party-like fun that’s perfect for your fitness goals. For more information call 4432-0974 or visit www.iaidonline.org.

ONE OF A KIND LADIES OF HARLEY Saturday Ride

March 1: Harley-Davidson Shop. The Ladies of Harley meet the first Saturday of each month at 6:00 p.m. at the dealership on Salwa Road. Any female Harley-Davidson enthusiast, either rider or passenger, who enjoys socializing and becoming involved with like-minded women can become a member. For more information visit the Ladies Of Harley Facebook page.

EVERY WEEK IAID Ballroom Dancing

Sat & Sun: Hilal St., Al-Tadamon Signal, D-Ring Road. Ballroom dancing is a refreshing dance choice that takes participants through a set of partner dances enjoyed at social occasions. Get into the rhythm of swing, salsa, jive, tango, rhumba, cha cha and samba while reaping the benefits of health and fitness. For more information call 4432-0974 or 4441-1234 or visit www.iaidonline.org.

DOHA MUMS Mums Coffee

Mondays: Aspire Grand Café. From 9:00 am till 11:00 am. Need a break from the kids? Join us for a kid-free coffee at Aspire Grand Café. No kids please - not even babies! For more information visit www.dohamums.com or email rsvp@dohamums.com.

GREEK COOKING LESSONS Greek Food

Ongoing: Lessons are offered by an experienced cooking instructor in your home for groups of two or three ladies. Throughout the 3-hour long lessons, Mrs. Hara will teach you how to make famous Greek dishes to please your whole family. Printed recipe material is supplied. For more information call 6633-5289.

See us online! www.qatarhappening.com

Indian Women’s Association 4442-4052

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

Red Dotters Qatar

5520-9294 Follow @RedDottersQatar on Twitter

Silver Dhow Association 4435-2598

Turkish Women’s Association www.twaq.org

Tuesday Ladies Group Email: tlgindoha@gmail.com

SASCOM: South Africans In Qatar

www.southafricansinqatar.netfirms.com

Canadians In Qatar

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

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Kids Club

s k c i P p o T ’s This Month

Qatar Divers The PADI Bubblemaker Experience

Tasawor y Kid’s Artistic Exploration Monthly Competition: Are you ready for an imaginative outdoor adventure? Join in an artistic exploration of Qatar’s nature. Use the monthly nature challenge as inspiration, go outside, and create. Then simply upload your entry to the map in the place where you were inspired. Prizes will be awarded to the most creative entries from children ages 4-12. For more information visit www.tasawory.qa.

IAID Hip-Hop Tues & Thurs: Hilal St,. Al-Tadamon Signal, D-Ring Road. This is a popular high-energy urban class that uses the latest music combined with movement and choreography inspired by today's hottest hip-hop tunes. For more information call 4432-0974 or 4441-1234 or visit www.iaidonline.org.

OUT om .c CHECaK ppening

atarh tion! www.qthe latest informa for

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Aspire Spor ts Development

Sports for Kids

Ongoing: Aspire Sport Development is at the heart of a sporting revolution currently taking place in Qatar and around the region. They’re conceiving, promoting and implementing gamechanging excellence in sports that is enabling an entire generation of highly-skilled, disciplined and competent young athletes, both Qatari and expat. They’re the country’s premier and the region’s leading sports academy, and their Aspire Active program offers football, agility classes, power walking, fitness games, swimming, boxing, spinning and more. For more information visit www.aspire.qa.

Ongoing: A great way to introduce children to scuba diving in a pool with less than six feet of water. Celebrate a birthday by throwing a memorable, exciting Bubblemaker party with friends and family at their dive shop. It’s fun, easy and safe. Youngsters can join in the family fun of scuba diving or even start a trend! Children should be comfortable in the water, but they do not have to be super swimmers. With youngsters in mind, the maximum depth is only 2 metres/6 feet. For more information visit www.qatardivers.com.

Al Samariyah Equestrian Centre Horseback-Riding For Kids Mon-Sun: Starts at 6:30 a.m. till 7:00 p.m. Kids or adults, beginner or advanced, everyone is welcome at ASEC. The riding school is located next to the museum of Sheikh Faisal Bin Qassim Al-Thani on the Dukhan Road in Al Shahaniyah. At ASEC it is possible to join group lessons or to have private ones. They organize promenades in the forest, competitions, clinics, pony days, camps and lessons as an after-school activity. It’s also possible to celebrate your birthday at ASEC or to have a team-building day with them. For more information call 5525-7203.

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Kids Club

Simple Ways To Reduce Stress

By Jacqueline Bodnar

Stress is a word that we hear quite often â&#x20AC;&#x201C; especially from parents with young children, but most people donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t give much thought to what it actually is. Understanding stress, the effects it has on your body, and how to manage it is the key to feeling good and living a healthier life for you and your family. 60 QH March 2014- FINAL.indd 60

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Life is stressful enough as it is, but do we really know how much damage stress does to our bodies?

Stress Defined According to the American Heart Association, stress is the body’s response to change. Not everyone feels stress over the same things, nor do their bodies react in the same way. Having a little stress is normal and can be good. There are different forms of stress, such as the short-lived stress you feel when watching your favourite sports team in a close game. Then there’s the type of stress that can cause problems with your body and life. According to the American Psychological Association, there are several forms of stress. The most common is what’s referred to as acute stress, which comes from demands and pressures from the past and near future. This is the type of stress that can be thrilling in small doses but exhausting and damaging if experienced too long. Acute stress is something whereby most people can easily identify the causes of it in their life—usually demands, deadlines and events.

Effects And Management “It’s important for women to take the time to relieve stress because stress harms us, both physically and emotionally,” says Tracy Newton, a licensed professional counselor at New Hope Counseling in United States. “Women are good at taking on many tasks and responsibilities, but often don’t stop to realize the wear and tear which that causes to their bodies and mental health.” She explains that stress has been linked to heart disease, stroke, auto-immune problems, low libido, weight gain and loss, infertility problems, and a variety of other health problems. It’s also not uncommon for people to experience depression or anxiety because of the stress in their lives.

parasympathetic nervous system, thus promoting relaxation, decreasing insomnia and promoting improved sleep patterns.” Lewis explains that research has also shown that massage decreases blood levels of the stress hormones norephinephrine and cortisol, and helps to increase the feel-good chemicals in the body, called endorphins. “Massage can relieve pain, stimulate circulation of blood and lymph, improve muscle health, increase joint mobility, and promote relaxation and a feeling of well-being,” says Lewis. “It’s even good for pregnant women, as long as they are having an uncomplicated pregnancy.”

If you need help because your schedule is overloaded, ask for it or delegate some responsibilities. If you have nobody around who can assist you, then look outside the home or office. There are concierge services that can assist you with everything from finding home contractors to buying your groceries.

Other simple ways to reduce stress include: “Stress can prevent women from enjoying what is happening in their day-to-day lives and the quality of their relationships with others,” adds Newton. “Through learning to relieve stress, a woman can have better health, greater happiness and a more enjoyable life.”

Ways To Reduce Stress There are many ways that you can reduce the stress in your life, some taking no more than a few minutes to implement. Try different things until you see what will fit into your lifestyle and give you a healthy outlet. One really good way to reduce stress and feel totally rejuvenated afterward is to get a massage. “There are numerous researched and documented benefits to massage therapy. It affects every system of the body,” explains Cheryl Lewis, a registered massage therapist .“Findings show that massage stimulates the

Breathing Exercises – The Mayo Clinic recommends inhaling through your nose for a count of ten. As you inhale, your abdomen should raise, not your chest. Then exhale slowly and completely for a count of ten. They recommend that you repeat this ten times at several times throughout the day, even when you aren’t feeling stressed. Journaling – Keep some sort of diary handy and write about your feelings. Just being able to put them on paper often helps people to feel better. Exercising – The Mayo Clinic also advises that exercise is a good way to manage stress because it distracts you from stressful events and helps to release your nervous energy. Most people also find yoga and meditation to be a great relief for stress.

“Errand and concierge services can save individuals an average of three to four hours per week,” says Tracey Crockett, owner of Chores, Errands ‘N More, an American life management company.“This equates to 144-192 hours per year. Even the busiest Mom can appreciate the benefits of a concierge service provider.” n COMMON SIGNS OF STRESS • Headache • Chest pain • High blood pressure • Shortness of breath • Back and neck aches • Clenched jaws • Indigestion • Stomach cramping • Fatigue • Insomnia • Weight gain or loss • Diminished libido

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Kids Club

Kitchen

Creations Images courtesy of The St. Regis Doha

In most parts of the world, springs means apple blossom season. Enjoy the crisp tang of some Granny Smith’s as JeemTV’s celebrity Chef Elias Gemayal from Opal by Gordon Ramsay in The St. Regis Doha gives us his recipe for a stickysweet caramelized apple tart. Caramelized Apple Tart Ingredients • 4 green apples • 1 vanilla pod or ½ tsp of vanilla essence • 1 Tbsp of icing sugar for dusting • 1 Tbsp of white sugar • 2 sheets of puff pastry • 1 Tbsp of unsalted butter • 3 scoops of vanilla ice cream Instructions • Heat the oven to 220 degrees Celsius. • Peel the apples and cut them into small squares. • Heat with butter in a small frying pan and then add the chopped apples, vanilla and 1 Tbsp of white sugar. • Cook the mixture until it becomes soft. Stir gently and allow it to cool down. • Cover a baking tray with non-stick baking paper. • Cut the puff pastry into a rectangular shape (15 cm x 5 cm). • Put the pastry onto the baking tray and cook it for 15 minutes until it gets puffy and golden in colour. • Remove the pastry from the oven and allow it to cool down. • Leave the pastry in a cool place on a serving dish. Next you need to cut the pastry to remove the top. • Run a small, sharp knife along the side, approximately 1 cm from the top and carefully cut the top off the pastry. It should come off easily. Put the pastry top aside until needed.

With it's fluffy layers and sticky-sweet apples, kids will have no problems eating their fruit!

• Take the cooled, cooked apple mixture and add it to the bottom of the pastry. Then, put three scoops of vanilla ice cream on top of the apple mix. • Put the top of the pastry that you cut off back on top with the ice cream. • To serve, sprinkle the top of the tart with icing sugar. n

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Kids Club

s y a D n u F y l i m Fa Words and images by Charlie Sands

And so it was, on a windy but sunny Saturday, BBQ gear, beach gear and the idea of getting away from it all, that we stepped outside of the known and came to a little place called Mafyar...

afyar is another of Qatar's off-thebeaten-track beauty spots that’s mostly accessible for two-wheel drives and certainly a pleasant day out for families. The water is shallow at low tide, making it perfect for paddling, and at high tide the more adventurous can do a spot of kayaking, provided you bring your own equipment of course. It’s less than an hour's drive from Doha, and certainly a pleasant one as there are virtually no other vehicles on the massive eight- lane highway. Simply follow D-Ring Road which turns into Al Shamal Road all the way up to nearly the northern tip, past Al Khor, past Ras Laffan, past Fuwairit, and passt Al Gariyah, then take the next exit sign for Mafyar. Follow the road for a kilomtere or so, then turn right at the T-junction,

follow the road for another 2 kilometres and then look for a dirt track on the left (unpaved but passable by two-wheel drives) and follow this all the way to the hamlet of Mafyar. Once there you have various options which depend on your preference of activity, your vehicle and most importantly, the tide. At high tide there are plenty of places you can park up and explore the waters and the mangroves, at low tide there is a nice little beach with a shallow pool, and on the other side of this, a much larger spit of land with a large beach, and plenty of walking opportunities and swimming, or kayaking if there’s enough water. Since we caught the low tide and were a party of six adults plus six children under the age of

five, we set up our day camp on the little beach in front of a shallow pool of water, got the BBQs ready and got the children into their wet gear. The proper sea if you fancy a dip is out beyond the sand spit, but our little paddling pool was perfect for our party. Aside from a very strong wind which was a little on the chilly side the day was perfect. We saw a couple of locals who greeted us with broad grins and said “How are you?” and “Welcome”. But most of the hamlet appeared to be abandoned.

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At low tide you can walk out for miles it seems in every direction

Taking a break from the party and the squawking kids, I took a walk across the spit and along the beach. There I found all the delights of a beautiful beach with not a soul in sight; just sand, shells, a few fishing boats tied up on the beach, mangroves and birds. Since I'm not a twitcher (bird spotter), I know very little about what kind of birds you’re likely to see in Qatar, but let me refer you to an excellent book on the bird life of Qatar written by long-term resident and naturalist Frances Gillespie. Her books, Discovering Qatar and Common Birds of Qatar, are available in most bookstores here.

Pack the kids and a picnic lunch and escape the big city for beach-side tranquillity

“I remember the turn-off because of the name: ‘mafia’ or ‘Mafyar’”, our friend said as we wondered how we would re-find this hidden beach if we were to come back some day. Also of interest on this trip are the Qatari desert camps you will see along the way during the winter. Each Qatari family is given a certain piece of land by the Government and over winter it’s popular to go and set up a camp which families will stay at during weekends and holidays during the cooler months. Camping around Mafyar would also be an option, since there’s plenty of space and secluded spots to set up your tent and enjoy.

The Score Is Out A thoroughly enjoyable trip, especially good for a group and a family and for those who love beaches and nature and don't mind going without bathroom facilities for the day. So Mafyar gets the thumbs up with an 8 out of 10! n

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Kids Club Listings RECOMMENDS

Elite Tennis Academy Mini -Tennis Lessons

Ongoing: Mini-tennis is the best way for children to learn the sport. Research shows itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s essential for children up to the age of 10 to learn the physical skills of running, jumping, balance, co-ordination, throwing and catching, as well as basic tennis skills if they are to reach their full sporting potential. Expect to see lots of these activities in mini-tennis lessons. Allow your children to play in the mini-tennis colour stage that is appropriate to them, this will ensure they enjoy playing the game and gain confidence. For more information visit www.elite-tennisacademy.com.

ONE OF A KIND

EVERY WEEK

IAID Music Courses

IAID Modern Jazz for Kids

Sat-Thurs: Hilal St., Al-Tadamon Signal, D-Ring Rd. Offers classes in Classical/ Modern Piano, Classical/Acoustic Guitar, Electronic Keyboard and Western Vocals. All music courses incorporate Western notations and follow the London College of Music (LCM) syllabus. Examinations are held every six months at IAID by LCM examiners. Non-IAID students are welcome. For more information call 4432-0974 or 4441-1234 or email enquire@iaidonline.org.

DOHA MUMS Aspire Park Pre-School Playgroup

Ongoing: Join them at the Aspire Park playground for a chat and a chance for the children to run around now that the weather is cooling. For more information visit www.dohamums.com.

Sat, Sun, Mon & Wed: Hilal St., Al-Tadamon Signa,l D-Ring Road. Covers the basic step vocabulary and variations of dances commonly used in musical theatre and commercial entertainment industries. Designed to train students to professional standards with technical exercises and exciting routines. For more information call 4432-0974 or 4441-1234 or visit www.iaidonline.org.

IAID Karate

Sat-Thurs: Hilal St., Al-Tadamon Signal, D-Ring Road. Shotokan, a karate style developed from various martial arts tackles karate basics, forms or patterns of moves and sparring. Affiliated with the Qatar Karate Federation, the course is open for kids and adults. For more information call 4432-0974 or 4441-1234 or visit www.iaidonline.org.

DOHA MUMS Practice Montessori Playgroup

Tuesdays: Join in every Tuesday from 9:30 a.m. till 11:30 a.m. for a playgroup for babies up to three years old, in a home set up following Montessori principles. For mothers who may be interested in sharing and talking about Montessori and other educational methods, or just to talk in general itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s an open space to take part. Mothers are also free to read, write, knit etc. (except computer work, as this is more distracting to toddlers) while keeping an eye on their child. The parent will be in charge of their child's safety. If interested in doing Montessori work, parents are in charge of demonstrating activities and guiding them in putting things back. For more information visit www.dohamums.com.

See us online! om www.qatarhappening.c

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Food & Dining

s k c i P p o T ’s This Month

The Ritz-Carlton Saturday Family Fun Day

Su Kempinski Residences &

ites

International Women’s Day March 8: Gourmet House. Extend your wishes and celebrate with all the wonderful ladies out there by offering them one of the delicate sweet creations of Gourmet House, specially made for this day. From 7:00 a.m. till 9:00 p.m. For more information call 4405-3326, email gourmet.doha@kempinski.com, or visit www.kempinski.com/doha.

The Grand Hyatt Irish Brunch March 14: Guests can kick-off the weekend the Irish way with a menu prepared by Irish Executive Chef Shane O’Neil of Park Hyatt Goa. The Grill also offers guests a soft drinks brunch on Friday March 14 for QR 280, or QR 395 for a special beverage brunch. For more information call 3000-7513.

OUT om .c CHECaK ppening

atarh tion! www.qthe latest informa for

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Sharq Village & Spa The Spice Route: Culinary Wonders Of India March 26 -31: Al Liwan. Indian cuisine encompasses a wide variety of regional dishes native to India that are heavily influenced by cultural choices and traditions which leads to the diversity of flavours. Savour the exotic flavours of Indian specialties hosted by Chef Janardan Das. QR 250 per person inclusive of soft beverages and QR 125 for children ages 6 to 12 years. For more information call 4425-6666.

Saturday: The Lagoon Garden. There is no better retreat in the city than the lush |and green Lagoon Garden to celebrate an even longer family weekend. Children enjoy their own activities and games at the Kids’ Corner while adults indulge al fresco with their favourite hops and festive ambiance! The party invites guests to enjoy live entertainment while savouring a sumptuous selection of BBQs from around the world. QR 225 person including soft beverages, QR 335 person including bubbly, or QR 375 for full brunch. Kids under the age of four can dine for free. QR 130 for kids ages 4 -12 years old. From noon till 4:00 p.m. For more information call 4484-8512.

The St. Regis Doha Grapes & Cheese Night March 18: Opal by Gordon Ramsay. Once a month the Head Sommelier opens one of the largest cellars in Doha, inviting enthusiasts for a tasting paired with the finest selection of gourmet cheeses. Places are limited, bookings essential. QR 375 per person inclusive of ten exclusive labels and a selection of cheese. From 6:00 p.m. till 8:00 p.m. For more information call 4446-0105 or email diningreservations@stregis.com.

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Food & Dining

A Cut Above

By Ashlee Starratt Photography by Jessie Palanca

JW’s Steakhouse at the Doha Marriott has re-launched with a sultry new look and a refreshed spin on the standard meat and potatoes concept. We get ready to whet our knives and our appetites as we go for the bone!

n case you’ve noticed the giant cow on the roof of the Doha Marriott, it’s safe to say that something’s been ‘a-hoof’ at the JW’s Steakhouse. Puns aside, the restaurant recently went through an overhaul in January – completely revamping its interior and updating its selection of offerings. This was followed by an intense marketing campaign up to and throughout its re-opening, highlighted by its tongue-in-cheek slogan ‘So well done, it’s rare’. Gone are the white-washed colours, old upholstery and Marriott memorabilia on the walls. Now, the space is a sultry sink-back-andrelax red, with splashes of cow-hide adorning the walls alongside black and white photos of some truly magnificent Aberdeen Angus’s. It’s only a Sunday night and more than half the restaurant is full. This is a place for meat aficionados and high-rollers alike, its new look

throwing off a classic Rat Pack vibe with a live pianist every Wednesday and Thursday night adding to the ambiance. We’re seated in a vibrant corner of the restaurant with some striking table settings – deep cherry-stained wood platters with longhorn steer handles fitting for any Texas Ranger. We look over the menu, which also offers a healthy variety of seafood options for those who like their turf with a side of surf. A born and bred Atlantic Canadian I’m tempted by a taste of home with their Maine lobster, but decide that, since we’re in a steakhouse and this is a review, I might as well go for the beef. We settle on 180 gram filet mignons all-round with sides of garlic mashed potatoes, steak fries, sautéed mushroom caps, asparagus drizzled with Hollandaise, creamed spinach and a starter of French onion soup.

A crust of gooey Parmesan tops an earthy bowl of French onion soup

The soup is piping hot, with a delicate crust of Parmesan and a hefty helping of crispy croutons. Not too salty, it balances nicely with the side of caramelized onion flour-pot bread and chive butter. Up next is the main attraction – the steaks. Arriving at the table still sizzling, those are some classy cuts to go with what is essentially a very classic menu. Seared to perfection, the filet mignon is a beautiful cut of meat – blackened on the outside and pretty in pink on the inside, complemented by a rich peppercorn sauce and buttery Bearnaise. Feeling extra saucy I dollop on both, savouring every melt-in-my-mouth bite.

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Enjoy this photo of their filet-mignon, because it needs no description

memory that’s lingered on my taste buds. The whimsicallypresented flour-pot bread

The sides are winners as well, with the garlic mashed potatoes taking the gold star of the night. Silky and fragrant they pair perfectly with a scoop of creamed spinach. In an ever-changing landscape of steakhouses vying for Doha’s coveted top spot, there’s something to be said for what JW’s has to offer. Sticking to its homey roots, the offerings are simple yet refined. Each bite tastes like the comforts of home, when Mom would make a Sunday roast dinner and you just couldn’t lap up the mash and gravy fast enough, layering each element on your plate – meat, potatoes and veg, for the perfect bite. I find myself doing the same thing here tonight, and each mouthful is a succulent combination of textures and flavours triggering an olfactory

For dessert, again it’s classics all-round as we tuck into a mammoth slice of their chocolate layer cake with a side helping of homemade vanilla ice cream and an equally large piece of their New York cheesecake with a side of strawberry sauce. Both are can’t-go-wrong staples, so we also decide to branch out and try their chocolate surprise. A truly creative off-the-menu concoction, it’s a white chocolate sphere that collapses when drizzled with hot chocolate, revealing an interior of milk chocolate crispy bits. Overall the revamped JW’s Steakhouse gets top points for service, presentation and quality of food. In a competitive market where maintaining a restaurant’s status has as much to do with keeping its already loyal regulars, as well as bringing in new patrons, JW’s is gaining an edge. Top customers have a monogrammed dinner plate and steak knife reserved for them each time they come – a nice touch, and with

It's a New York state of mind with their Big Apple-inspired cheesecake

banner dinner services setting all-time records for the brand last month, the JW’s team could very well celebrate till the cows come home. And if one’s missing, they might want to check the roof. n JW’S STEAKHOUSE Location: Doha Marriott Timings: 6:30 p.m. till 11:30 p.m., daily Average Meal Price: QR 85-QR 95, appetizers QR 175-QR 250, mains QR 25-QR 30, side orders QR 45, desserts Smoking: Yes Licensed: Yes Contact Info: 4429-8499 or www.marriott.com

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Food & Dining

Catch Of The Day By Jorge Granda Photography by Jessie Palanca

Prepare your taste buds to savour only the freshest local catch, bathed in ginger paste and other delightful ingredients with this signature recipe. We head out to the fish market with the Oryx Rotana’s international Chef Cristian Buenrostro to select the best fish for our dish.

’ve always been intrigued about the process chefs around the world go through in order to get their creations onto restaurant tables. I contacted my friend Chef Christian from Mexico, who is Executive Chef at the Oryx Rotana, to help me satisfy my curiosity. The idea is simple. We select a fine meal to prepare – in this case a seafood dish - and Cristian shows me what it takes to get the dish to the table, from selecting the fish, to cooking it and, finally, serving it.

Selecting The Right Fish

Chef Cristian Buenrostro proudly displays a four-kilo talikitok, fresh from the water

Our day gets off to an early start and by 8:00 a.m. we’re at the fish market by the Corniche just off off the Airport Road, ready to get the best catch of the day. Cristian tells me that the winter season in Doha is the best time of year to buy local fish as the PH balance and salinity of the ocean is low in comparison to the summer, when both are high and the water is very hot. Therefore the texture of the fish during the hot season is harder and the taste less appetizing. Selecting a fresh fish is essential to creating a flavoursome dish. Cristian explains that the freshness of the fish is determined by the texture of the eyes and how gelatinous they are. Looking at the condition of its gills is also important. After almost one hour searching for the right piece of fish we find a four-kilo talikitok, a local species that meets our expectations. Its eyes and gills look healthy and it’s the flavour of its meat will work nicely for our recipe. The fish in hand we head back to the hotel to cook our catch at Choices restaurant.

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Steady knife-work is required to slice the perfect filet Hot, crisp and smoked to perfection on the plate

Smoked Talikitok Ingredients The amount of each ingredient will be according to each individual’s taste. • Talikitok fish • Turmeric • Chili paste • Lemon juice • Olive oil • Salt and pepper • Apple wood chips Preparation • Sprinkle salt and pepper all over the fish. Make sure you rinse it well first and that your local fish-monger cleans and fillets it for you at the time of purchase. • Mix the remaining ingredients together in a bowl, except for the apple wood chips. • Marinate the fish in the mixture and set aside.

• Cover the bottom of a large pot with aluminium foil and spread the apple wood chips on top, letting them heat up until smoke comes out of the pot. • Place the marinated fish in a metal strainer. Cover the bottom and top of the strainer with aluminium foil and place it on top of the smoking pot – to smoke the fish – and let it cook for around 15 minutes. The longer you let the fish smoke the more intense the flavours will be. • After the time is up, remove the strainer from the smoking pot and cook the fish in the oven for an extra ten minutes until the meat is cooked all the way through and flakes away on the fork.

• Serve with a mixed lettuce side salad. If you don’t feel up for tackling this delicious meal yourself you can have it prepared by Chef Cristian at Choices in the Oryx Rotana which offers a different twist on all-day dining, serving up international gastronomic delights seven days a week. n CHOICES Location: Oryx Rotana Timings: 6:00 a.m. till 11:30 p.m., daily Contact Info: Call 4402-3333 or visit www.rotana.com

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Food & Dining

Chef ’s Corner Photography by Jessie Palanca

Anyone who has enjoyed a gooey square of Turkish delight can attest that there’s nothing quite like the delicate flavour of Turkish sweets. This month we try something new, as Saban Guven, Pastry Chef at Sukar Pasha restaurant shows us how to prepare the Ottoman-influenced Black Pearl dessert. Black Pearl with Mango, Mastic Mousse & Mint Jelly Ingredients For the mousse: • 1 cup, mango purée • 1 ½ cups, liquid cream • 8 Tbsp, granulated sugar • 3 pieces, gelatin leaves • 2 cups, whipped cream • 5 pieces, mastic – normal-sized • 1 cup, white chocolate For the sauce: • One bunch of fresh mint, washed • 2 pieces, gelatin leaves • 1 cup, granulated sugar • 4 cups, water For the outer shells: • 2 cups, melted Felchin or Valrhona dark chocolate

Instructions • Slowly heat the dark chocolate in a bain marie until it melts, making sure not to heat it to more than 50 degrees Celsius. This process is called tempering. • Once the chocolate has melted, carefully pour it into a round-shaped mould; refrigerate until the chocolate has set. Or, if pressed for time you can also buy ready-made shells from the store. • Boil the mango purée, sugar, liquid cream and mastic together. • Remove the mixture from the heat and pour it through a sieve for maximum smoothness, then add the white chocolate, folding with a mixing spoon until all ingredients are incorporated. • Refrigerate for a half an hour until cool. Once cold, stir in the whipped cream and gelatin leaves to the mixture and pipe into the now-hardened chocolate shells.

• For the sauce, boil the fresh mint and sugar together. Remove from the heat and mix it with a blender, then sieve it and, finally, add in the gelatin leaves and let stand until it develops a jelly-like consistency. • Spoon the mint jelly over the chocolate Black Pearl balls, serve and enjoy! Makes four portions. n SUKAR PASHA Location: Building 31, Katara Timings: Lunch 12:00 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.(weekdays) 12:00 p.m. - 3:30 p.m. (Fri & Sat) Dinner: 6:00 p.m. -11:30 p.m. (weekdays) 6:00 p.m. - 12:30 a.m. (Fri & Sat) Shisha, pides, sandwiches & drinks available from 12:00 p.m. - 12:00 a.m. Average Meal Price: Starting from QR 60 for main courses. Smoking: Yes Reservations: 4408-2000 or www.sukarpasha.qa

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Food & Dining

Word of Mouth Photography by Nadir Khamis

This column is part of a monthly contest where we send one of our readers to experience a meal at a restaurant. It’s our way of giving the community a voice in our pages. This month Kelly Beckta pulls up a chair for the Friday brunch at Aramede in the Crowne Plaza Doha – The Business Park. Here is her review.

KB: There was a very wide selection of food and it was good quality. There was a lovely roast section that included roast turkey; you don’t see that at brunches very often. The salads were particularly lovely and so was the pizza that remained piping hot, fresh out of the oven for the entire brunch.

Contest winner Kelly Beckta and Executive Sous Chef Sabri Kocoglu

QH: Describe the quality of the service. KB: The service was excellent, the waiter was very attentive and service was prompt. We received a very warm welcome from the hostess at the front and the manager was visible in the restaurant checking on the customers and welcoming everyone with a genuine smile.

QH: What did you order?

QH: Was there a special touch or flair to the experience? KB: We did get to the meet the chef and we did notice a special table that was exquisitely decorated which is available to be booked for a special chef’s dinner. I thought that was unique. I also noticed a clown at the brunch that was doing a very good job entertaining the children.

QH: Would you go back? Why/why not? KB: We tried the following items from their Friday brunch buffet: • Salad bar and cold station • Roast turkey carving station • Pizza from the wood-fired oven • A variety of Mediterranean dishes and cold cuts

KB: Yes of course, I can’t stop thinking about that delicious pizza; my mouth is watering just talking about it! QH: Favourite thing about the restaurant?

QH: Were the prices reasonable?

KB: The salads, the pizza and the lovely desserts.

KB: Yes, it was QR 305 with the premium house beverage package.

QH: Least favourite thing about the restaurant?

QH: Describe the ambiance.

KB: The band just wasn’t our type of music. We did mention to the manager that we found the band was a little loud and she promptly had them adjust the volume, which we really appreciated.

KB: Nice for families and casual dining. QH: Describe the quality of the food.

QH: Could the overall experience be improved? If so, how? KB: For me I would change the music to be a little more upbeat and modern and have the volume at a level where guests are still able to converse with each other quite easily. I would also expand the selection of beverages included with the premium beverage package. n EDITOR’S NOTE: The views and opinions expressed in our reader reviews do not reflect in any way those of Qatar Happening Magazine’s staff, directors, management or Editor-in-Chief. All hotel PR food and beverage departments are aware of the content and receive a copy.

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Food & Dining

One Sweet World:

Red Velvet Cake

Words and images by Gerald Tan

Ah, the red velvet cake. From its shockingly scarlet hue to its überdecadent cream cheese icing, it’s defied its humble roots to become the chicest treat in the bakery box. This month, we delve into its frosted underpinnings.

’ve never really understood the obsession with red velvet cake. I don’t find it abhorrent... I just don’t ever crave it. To me, the sponge-with its trace of cocoa--borders on tasteless. Much of the flavour is derived from the cream cheese frosting, which is so heavenly it can be enjoyed on its own without the need for an unnaturally bright, scarlet carrier. In fact, the red velvet cake’s explosion into mainstream dessert-dom is a curious one. Its U.S. heritage is not disputed, although its precise genesis is. Many in the South claim to have been cooking it for generations. An urban legend points to the Waldorf-Astoria Hotel in New York for inventing the cake and charging a customer hundreds of dollars for the recipe. Then some food historians point to a marketing scheme that spread the dish throughout the American kitchen. The story goes that during the Great Depression, housewives were doing away with extracts and colourings that were deemed unnecessary luxury. To trump up business, the Adams Extract Company came up with a recipe requiring large amounts of food colouring and butter flavouring, then printed it on free recipe cards to hand out at grocery stores with a catchy slogan: ‘the cake

of a wife time’. On the account of the advertising brilliance itself, this is my preferred version of the tale. So what’s in this queer sounding cake? Two important ingredients are vinegar and buttermilk. The acidity reacts with the cocoa powder, turning the sponge into a deep, rust-like hue. This is then amplified with the addition of an entire bottle of red food colouring. The velvet part is a reference to the moist, crumbly texture of the cake, achieved from the chemical reaction of the acidic components with baking soda. Red velvet found its Hollywood moment in the film Steel Magnolias in the form of an armadilloshaped wedding cake. It’s hard to say if that helped its modern-day resurgence; but add Dolly Parton, creamy frosting and an armour-shelled mammal together, and in my mind you have a recipe for a bakery blockbuster. These days, you can’t turn the corner without being confronted with red velvet in some form or another. It’s a staple flavour for cupcakes and macarons, brownies and soufflés, even ice cream. Because of its convenient colour, red velvet is popular for celebrations such as Valentine’s and Christmas. Oh, and weddings, of course.

Frosty and sweet, the ice cream sandwich from Red Velvet Cupcakery is one of their newest treats

For me, a good red velvet has to be judged first on texture: if it’s too dry or too dense, it’s just not worth eating. Because the best part is the cream cheese frosting, that had better shine. We’re looking for something smooth and dreamy (there’s nothing worse than lumpy frosting). And then finally there’s the look… a bold-tinted sponge encased in the innocence of white. It really can be quite beautiful, and that perhaps explains why the world goes gaga over red velvet, because don’t we ultimately eat with our eyes? n TRY RED VELVET CAKE HERE: Red Velvet Cupcakery Building 24, Katara 4408-0700 Daily, 9:00 a.m. till midnight Sugar & Spice Lagoona Mall 4411-4456 Sun-Wed, 10:00 a.m. till 10:00 p.m. Thurs-Sat, 10:00 a.m. till 1100 p.m. Magnolia Bakery 4450-9407 Daily, 8:00 a.m. till 11:00 p.m. Closed from 11:30 a.m. till 12 noon on Fridays

Each month, food journalist Gerald Tan features the desserts of different cuisines and where they can be found in Qatar. Visit his website www.boulangerry.com for recipes and culinary chronicles from his travels or Tweet him @geraldotan.

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Food & Dining

Mother Knows Best No one will ever love you like your mother, and treating the most special woman in your life requires an extra-thoughtful touch. QH rounds-up Doha’s best Mother’s Day celebrations that will leave her spoiled for choice. ASPIRE KATARA HOSPITALITY Burgerry March 11, 21 & 30: Aspire Park. Come to Burgerry on Mother's Day! All mothers get a free cheesecake when dining with the family. For more information call 4449-3958.

Red Velvet Cupcakery

March 11, 21 & 30: Katara Cultural Village. A Mother’s Day special – make Mums extra-special with their banana-strawberry milkshake. For more information call 4408-0700.

L’wzaar Seafood Market

March 11, 21 & 30: Katara Cultural Village. Dine with your family on Mother’s Day at L’wzaar and they’ll capture the moment with their free snapshot to be featured in L’wzaar’s Celebrant’s Book. March 11, 21 & 30: Mother’s Day Special. Make Mums extra-special with L’wzaar’s ‘Mother’s Love’ mocktail and ‘Love You Mum’ special dessert for a special price. For more information call 4408-0710.

Chac’late

March 11, 21 & 30: Katara Cultural Village. Mother’s Day Special. Appreciate Mum’s sweetness with Chac’late’s specially-prepared limited edition sweets for a very special price. For more information call 4408-0733.

CROWNE PLAZA DOHA– THE BUSINESS PARK It’s A Mom’s World!

March 21: Rodizio & Aramede. This Mother’s Day, why not spoil your Mum and dine out? Treat her to a fabulous brunch or a la carte menu at either restaurant and receive a free gift voucher for ‘Mummy’. From 12:30 noon till 4:00 p.m. and from 6:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4408-7777.

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA THE CITY A Special Treat March 21: Prime. Treat Mum to a three-course set menu in Prime, the hotel’s premium steak house, and she may take home more than she was expecting to with a draw for some fantastic prizes to be won. In addition, make a reservation before March 18 and Mum will receive a special bouquet on arrival. QR 350 per person. For more information call 4015-8888 or email doharestaurants@ihg.com.

KEMPINSKI RESIDENCES & SUITES Sweet For Mom

All-Month: Gourmet House. The culinary team of Kempinski presents some special sweet treats for all the Moms. Celebrate with your loved ones with a delicious cake from Gourmet House, prepared with passion. Gourmet House can tailormake your orders according to your taste, by giving 48-hours notice. For more information call 4405-3326, email gourmet.doha@kempinski.com or visit www.kempinski.com/doha.

LA CIGALE Spoil Your Mom!

March 21: Le Traiteur. Treat your Mom on her special day at La Cigale Traiteur and pamper her with impressive flower and chocolate arrangements or surprise her with a special cake specially-prepared for her. If you’re looking for quality time with your Mom, make her day at Le Cigalon restaurant with a sumptuous lunch or dinner buffet. For more information call 4428-8698.

ORYX ROTANA Festa Della Mamma

March 21: The Cellar. On Mother’s Day, The Cellar is serving up a meal any Mom would love! Whisk her away for the day to celebrate in style with the whole family by enjoying the special Mama Antipasti with one glass of bubbly for QR 80. For more information call 4402-3333.

RENAISSANCE DOHA CITY CENTER Mother’s Day Special Brunch March 21: Ipanema. To all the Moms in town, join Ipanema's Mother’s Day Brunch and you will get a free spa voucher so you can enjoy even more your special day. QR 250 inclusive of soft beverages and QR 320 inclusive of selected house beverages. From 12:00 noon till 3:00 p.m. For more information call 4419-6100 or visit www.westenddoha.com. n

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Food & Dining Listings RECOMMENDS zed categori ngs are sion is limited ti s li ll A l. Inclu e, with per hoteability of spac rtisers. il e a v v d a a to given to priority

EVERY WEEK CROWNE PLAZA DOHA – THE BUSINESS PARK By The Sea

DOHA MARRIOTT

Southeast Asian Cuisine

Daily: Asia Live! Featuring an exotic blend of Southeast Asian cuisine, Asia Live! offers an array of fragrant dishes from Japanese and Thai to Malaysian and Vietnamese cuisine. Enjoy freshly-prepared sushi or indulge in a skillful demonstration of teppanyaki art. For more information call 4429-8499.

PROMOTIONS

KEMPINSKI RESIDENCES & SUITES Earth Hour

Daily: Enjoy dinner for 2 for QR 70-80 including soft drinks. Available at all restaurant locations, serving the best taste at the best price. For more information call Delivery Hotline: 4431-1212, Mamoura: 4486-6077, Al Khor: 4411-8816/17, Salwa Road: 4437-1212, Al Sadd St.: 4431-4411, Holiday Villa Hotel: 4411-5225/335.

March 29: The Lounge & Aroma. Kempinski celebrates with the planet and proudly joins the Earth Hour by switching off all the unnecessary exterior and public areas lights for one hour, minimizing the energy footprint of the tower. Join them in the celebrations at The Lounge and Aroma for a candle-lit dinner or drinks! From 8:30 p.m. till 9:30 p.m. For more information call 4405-3325, email restaurants.doha@kempinski.com, or visit www.kempinski.com/doha.

THE GRAND HYATT Ladies Appreciation’s Month

RENAISSANCE DOHA CITY CENTER Luigi Bosca Vino Dinner

CHOWKING Value Meals

March 7: The Grill. The restaurant presents Women’s Day Brunch. This very special brunch is dedicated to ladies and includes many surprises. Ladies can enjoy a soft drinks brunch at The Grill for QR 280 or QR 395 for a special beverage brunch. For more information call 3000-7513.

‘Come Fly With Me Brunch’

March 28: The Grill. The restaurant joins forces with the world’s best airline for 2013, Emirates, to present guests with the ‘Come Fly With Me Brunch’. The soft drinks brunch is available for QR 280, and the special beverage brunch for QR 395. For more information call 3000-7513.

HILTON DOHA Burger On The Beach At Bab Al Baher & Zawaya

All month: Enjoy an exclusive burger menu for a limited time. For lunch or dinner there’s always a good excuse to enjoy a comforting, juicy burger. Whether on the beach at Bab Al Baher or in a comfy sofa in Zawaya, their homemade burgers are available all through the month of March. Dig in! For more information call 4423-3333.

March 16: New York Steakhouse. Are you a vino and food-pairing enthusiast? New York Steakhouse presents a vino dinner in association with Luigi Bosca! Savour a four-course menu paired with beautiful vino from the South American continent for QR 450. From 7:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4419-6100 or visit www.westenddoha.com.

Asparagus Promotion

March 27: Cucina. Come savour a menu intricately designed by their experienced chefs using the ‘Official Spring Vegetable’ – asparagus, as the key ingredient of inspiration. QR 60- QR 90, from 6:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4419-6100 or visit www.westenddoha.com.

See us online! om www.qatarhappening.c

Wednesdays: Aramede. Come and enjoy seafood night at their all-day dining restaurant. QR 250 per adult, QR 125 per child (ages six to 12 years). From 6:00 p.m. For more information call 4408-7777.

Let’s Meat Early

Sun-Fri: Rodizio. Enjoy the unique Brazilian atmosphere and take advantage of the early bird promotion. Just arrive before 7:00 p.m. and receive a 50% discount on their regular all-you-can-eat menu, with daily live entertainment from the Tropimambo Trio. QR 265 per adult, QR 130 per child (6-12 years) all-you-can-eat. Children under 6 years of age dine free of charge. From 6:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4408-7777.

DOHA MARRIOTT JW’S Has A New Look

Daily: JW’s Steakhouse. Featuring a refreshed and re-invigorated interior with new wall displays, enhanced lighting, and tasteful soft furnishings, the first steakhouse in Doha has a new lease on life! 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 lovers will not be disappointed by the delicate selection on the menu and the presentation, paired with impeccable service and mouth-watering flavours promises an unforgettable evening. For more information call 4429-8499.

Mexican Cuisine

Daily: Salsa. Enjoy a lively slice of Mexico at Salsa TexMex Restaurant. Let the authentic, picturesque setting and its colourful charm be an exciting backdrop for an evening full of rich flavours and spices and let their authentic Mariachi band liven up your dining experience. Whether you opt for your favourite fajita or try something new off the stone plate, at Salsa you’ll find everything you need for the perfect Mexican fiesta. For more information call 4429-8499.

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THE FOUR SEASONS The Perfect Lunch

Sat-Thurs: Nusantao: Sea Kitchens. Longing for a sensational lunch from the Far East but don’t have much time? Tailor-make your set lunch to suit your taste and time from an extensive selection of lunch dishes, from a two-course lunch to a six-course lunch – Chef Kato’s exclusive Bento Box. Savour the most exquisite pan-Asian culinary experience at the city’s newest theatrical dining venue. Starts at QR 55 from 12:00 noon till 3:00 p.m. For more information call 4494-8601.

Piatto Unico

Sat-Thurs: Il Teatro. The restaurant is the place to go in Doha for upscale contemporary Italian cuisine. Settle yourself into one of the deep plush chairs and delight your palate with fresh pastas, expertly-seasoned sauces and succulent meats. Homemade ice cream provides the perfect finish. Lunch à la carte from 12:00 noon till 3:00 p.m. and dinner à la carte from 7:00 p.m. till 11:30 p.m. for QR 88. For more information call 4494-8631.

HILTON DOHA Ladies’ Lunch At Trader Vic’s

Sat-Thurs: Trader Vic’s. Receive a soup or salad and the dessert of the day complimentary when ordering a main course. Ladies lunch in Trader Vic’s – a place so trendy it deserves to be on your Instagram! Enjoy a healthy and exotic three-course lunch for the price of one main in Trader Vic’s! For more information call 4423-3118.

THE GRAND HYATT Curry Nights

Mondays: Isaan. Everybody’s favourite Thai restaurant is offering a new concept of all-you-can-eat curry! Every Monday in March from 7:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m., guests can order a variety of unlimited curry to share, with their choice of fish, beef, chicken, mussels or vegetables. Bring your friends and share up to five curries per round. QR 75 per person. For more information call 7021-8097.

KEMPINSKI RESIDENCES & SUITES Bakery Happy Hour

Sun-Fri: Gourmet House. The best and most fresh bakery products in the city, on sale every evening from 7:00 p.m. till 9:00 p.m. Gourmet House, well known for its products, gives you the chance to purchase them for half-price. For more information call 4405-3326 or email gourmet.doha@kempinski.com.

Camel Milk Chocolate

Sun- Fri: Gourmet House. Al Nassma chocolate, the first and finest camel milk chocolate is now exclusively available in Gourmet House! Reflecting the flavours of the region, the premium chocolate uses camel milk as its finest ingredient. From 7:00 a.m. till 9:00 p.m. For more information call 4405-3326 or email gourmet.doha@kempinski.com.

Steak & Vino

Sun-Fri: Aroma. The finest cuts of meat are paired with a carefully-selected glass of vino, taking you on a distinctive gastronomic journey with the Steak & Vino menu at Aroma. For more information call 4405-3325 or email restaurants.doha@kempinski.com or www.kempinski.com/doha.

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Food & Dining Listings INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA Theme Nights At Coral Restaurant

Sundays: Turf Night dinner buffet. QR 250 including a glass of house beverage. Mondays: Sushi Boutique dinner buffet. QR 225 including a glass of house beverage. Tuesdays: Asian Night dinner buffet. QR 225 including a glass of house beverage Wednesday: Italian Night dinner buffet. QR 225 including a glass of house beverage. Thursdays: Phoenician Night dinner. QR 235 including a glass of house beverage. Fridays: Coral Goes BBQ dinner. QR 225 including a glass of house beverage. Saturdays: Surf Night seafood dinner buffet. QR 260 including a glass of house beverage. Saturday Kids and Family Brunch from 12:30 noon till 4:00 p.m. QR 250 per person including bubbly and QR 225 with soft drinks. For more information call 4484-4919 or 4484-4444.

Tour of Greece

Tuesdays: Mykonos. Savour a mouth-watering four-course menu inspired from different Greek regions – from Epirus to Ionia, to the Dodecanese Islands for QR 170. From 6:30 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4484-4919 or 4484-4444.

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA THE CITY Sushi Night Mondays: Strata. Open sushi and sashimi, accompanied by a Japanese traditional beverage for QR 225 including one drink and QR 200 for food only. For more information call 4015-8888 or email doharestaurants@ihg.com.

Daily Theme Nights

Daily: The Square. Feast on an exciting array of international dishes every Friday, Saturday and Sunday evening. Mondays offer the best of the Mediterranean and include authentic Italian, Spanish, Lebanese, Moroccan, French and Greek delicacies. Take a trip to Asia every Tuesday where Thai, Chinese, Japanese and Indian favourites take centre-stage. QR 180 excluding beverages or QR 250 including unlimited house beverages. From 6:00 p.m. till 11:30 p.m. For more information call 4015-8888 or email doharestaurants@ihg.com.

LA CIGALE Best Sushi

Daily: YEN Sushi Bar. Enjoy the best sushi and sashimi served on a special rotating belt; colour-coded plated formula along with a la carte menu. From 11:30 a.m. till 12:00 midnight. For more information call 4428-8698.

Pure Mediterranean

Daily: Le Central. Mediterranean specialties including a seafood market and antipasti station complemented by an extended beverage selection. From 12:00 noon till 3:00 p.m., and from 7:00 p.m. till 11:30 p.m. For more information call 4428-8772.

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MÖVENPICK HOTEL DOHA Travel The World On A Plate

Monday: Matador Night. Savour enticing Spanish delights with tapas, paella, live cooking and much more for QR 160 per person. Tuesday: Les Alpes. Enjoy the combination of the finest delicacies of France, Italy and Switzerland for an exclusive gourmet event for QR 160 per person. Wednesday: TemptAsian. Be tempted by authentic ingredients and aromas. Gather around the teppanyaki table, taste the creativity of the Japanese sushi or the tang of the Thai curry for QR 160 per person. Thursday: Deep Blue. A simply spectacular buffet of rich, fresh and succulent seafood and fish for QR 180 per person. Friday: Curry, Kare, Kari. Get ‘curried’ away from Southeast Asia to the north of India for QR 160 per person. Saturday & Sunday: International. Indulge in a colourful collection of international creations for QR 140 per person. For more information call 4429-1111.

ORYX ROTANA Tex Mex BBQ.

Sundays: Choices. Come with your friends to Choices every Sunday and enjoy a special beverage deal with the Tex Mex BBQ night! QR 200 per person including water, soft drinks and chilled juices or QR 280 including unlimited selected house beverages, or try the premium package for QR 320 including unlimited sparkling vino, house spirits, selected digestives and aperitifs. From 7:00 p.m. to 11:30 p.m. For more information call 4402-3333.

Tapas Galore

Tues & Sat: The Cellar. For tapas lovers, the unlimited night is every Tuesday. Enjoy the selection of tantalizing tapas with unlimited selected vinos for QR 300. Or, enjoy the experience for QR 160 inclusive of unlimited tapas galore and soft drinks. For more information call 4402-3333 or email oryx.hotel@rotana.com.

QUISINE BY GUY SAVOY Dining Room

Weekly: The Pearl-Qatar, Parcel 4, Unit 109. The main dining room offers patrons three potential private dining areas which can each welcome up to eight guests. The private dining rooms can also be opened up to create one large room and/or two private dining rooms, depending on the needs of your party.

RADISSON BLU Raclette Night

Mondays: Picasso’s. Enjoy a selection of freshcut meats, vegetables and potatoes dipped in scrumptious raclette melted cheese! The perfect evening to share with friends for QR 60, starts at 6:00 p.m. For more information call 4428-1555.

Seafood Sunday

Every Sunday (from March 16): Pier 12. A buffet with a twist! Choose as many items as you can from individual fresh starters, mains and desserts from the chef’s trolley and they’ll cook them exactly to your liking! QR 280 inclusive of selected house beverages, QR 260 inclusive of soft drinks, starts at 6:00 p.m. For more information call 4428-1555.

RENAISSANCE DOHA CITY CENTER Bahia’s Food Festival Mondays: Ipanema. Indulge in the taste of Northeastern Brazilian food and keep your plate full of new unique flavours for QR 290. From 6:30 p.m. till 11:30 p.m. For more information call 4419-6100 or visit www.westenddoha.com.

Indian Night

Wednesdays: Crossroads Kitchen. Biryani, curry, laksa, koftas, tandoori, samosas and more. Live cooking stations featuring all your favourites from the North, South, East and West. QR 195 including soft beverages. From 6:30 p.m. till 11:30 p.m. For more information call 4419-6100 or visit www.westenddoha.com.

THE ANVIL ROOMS

Daily: Tornado Tower. Choose a signature steak, a side, a sauce and a soft drink for QR 149 available seven days a week. For more information call 4499-0685.

THE DIPLOMATIC CLUB Qanun Player

Daily: The Grill Restaurant. Qanun is a string instrument played in much of the Middle East and is one of the richest-sounding Oriental musical instruments. Join in at The Diplomatic Club every evening for an alluring performance that will entertain you and enhance your appetite. For more information call 4484-7412.

Lobster The Way You Like It

Daily: Al Sayyad Restaurant. Pick out your lobster from the tank and have it prepared in your desired way -- poached, grilled, thermidor, or served over a simple salad. QR 220 per meal. Kids’ activity every Friday (bouncing castle, face-painting), from 12:00 noon till 4:00 p.m. For more information call 4484-7412.

THE ST. REGIS DOHA Burger & Pint Nights

Mon, Tues & Wed: Opal By Gordon Ramsay. Enjoy the tastiest and juiciest burger in Doha! Choose from lamb, fish, Wagyu beef or Opal’s vegetarian burger served with fluffy fat fries and homemade tomato sauce for QR 100. From 6:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4446-0105 or email diningreservations@stregis.com.

What’s Your Beef?

Sun-Fri: Astor Grill. Introducing a three-course tasting menu featuring the finest cuts of meat using various cooking techniques, paired with sommelier’s selection for an unforgettable dining experience. QR 280 food only or QR 380 with sommelier’s selection. From 7:00 p.m. till midnight. For more information call 4446-0106 or email diningreservations@stregis.com.

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SHARQ VILLAGE & SPA Sushi Mania

Mon & Wed: Al Dana. Choose your favourite from the freshlyprepared sushi, maki and sashimi menu twice a week. QR 185 per person with a 50% savings for children ages 6 to 12. From 6:30 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4425-6666.

SHERATON DOHA Themed Buffet Specials

Daily: Al Hubara. Every day enjoy a different cuisine at Al Hubara. Sunday, Monday and Tuesday are international nights. Wednesdays and Thursdays enjoy great seafood. Fridays are dedicated to South Asian dishes, while Saturdays are all about Arabia. QR 210, Friday till Tuesday, QR 280 Wednesday and Thursday. From 7:00 p.m. till 10:30 p.m. For more information call 4485-4071.

Parrillada Night

Sun & Wed: Latino. Enjoy this special offer of all-you-can-eat Argentinian parrillada served at your table, including salad and dessert buffet and live entertainment. QR 190 food only, QR 290 with house beverages. From 7:00 p.m. till 10:30 p.m. For more information call 4485-4071.

THE RITZ-CARLTON Porcini Aperitivo

Daily: Porcini. The restaurant opens its doors early for an Italian aperitivo. Enjoy a complimentary aperitif on your selection of Italian bites. From 5:30 p.m. till 7:00 p.m., starting at QR 115. For more information call 4484-8514 or umberto.panella@ritzcarlton.com.

Like In A Fairy Tale

Daily: La Mer Restaurant. Impress your loved one with a private dinner in Le Ciel, inclusive of a personalized selected food menu, soft beverages and water, plus private venue with breath-taking views. Starting from QR 3,000 per couple. For more information call 4484-8506 or email chiara.berton@ritzcarlton.com, or rc.dohrz.leads@ritzcarlton.com.

THE TORCH Tex- Mex

Wednesdays: Flying Carpet. Every Wednesday try Latino specialties with a wide selection of steaks, burgers and hot dogs for only QR 190 net per person. From 7:00 p.m. till 10:30 p.m. For more information call 4446-5600.

Escape To India

Mondays: Flying Carpet. Try out Indian food platters for only QR 180 net per person including selected beverages. From 7:00 p.m. till 10:30 p.m. For more information call 4446-5600 or reservation@thetorchdoha.com.

W DOHA Burger Night

Sundays: Market by Jean-Georges. Start your week with your favourite burger, your favourite side dish and one amazing sundae from the selection for QR 110 per person. For more information call 4453-5135 or email bnfreservations.wdoha@whotels.com.

WYNDHAM GRAND REGENCY. Moroccan Cuisine

Daily: Tangia Restaurant. A sumptuous mĂŠlange of the best traditional recipes from Morocco. The rhythmic melodies of Moroccan musicians in the background makes this an ideal place to unwind and soak up the atmosphere. Open daily from 12:00 noon till midnight. For more information call 4434-3203/3333 or email fzohrahalably@wyndham.com.

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Food & Dining Listings WEEKEND CROWNE PLAZA DOHA – THE BUSINESS PARK La Dolce Vita

Thursdays: Aramede. Every Thursday the hotel brings the streets of Italy to Aramede. Chefs preparing your pizzas and pastas at live cooking stations await you for a lavishing Italian night buffet. QR 150 per adult, QR 75 per child ages 6-12 years, and QR 299 per adult including house beverages. For more information call 4408-7777.

DOHA MARRIOTT Gourmet Route

Thursdays: The Gallery. Enjoy something for everyone, with highlights from their specialty restaurants and experience a gourmet buffet taste sensation! QR 225 regular and QR 320 with bubbly. For more information call 4429-8499.

THE FOUR SEASONS Sabato Italiano:

Saturdays: Il Teatro. Over the last century, pizza and pasta have both become the quintessential Italian comfort food. So it’s no surprise that Il Teatro, as the pure Italian restaurant in town pays tribute to this legendary dish by offering Pizza and Pasta Night every Saturday with a variety of Chef Aldo’s fresh home-made pizzas, pastas and gelato. On the Sabato Italiano guests will enjoy the best-tasting, most versatile and convenient food there is…so eat, drink and go Italian! QR 160 with soft drinks and QR 250 with bubbly. Kids ages 4-12 enjoy a 50% discount off the price of their meals. For more information call 4494-8631.

LA VARENNE Rôtisserie Night

Saturdays: Rotisserie is a style of roasting where meat is skewered on a spit over coals or fire. This slow-cooking method allows the juices to remain, thus enhancing the flavours. It’s very popular in France and part of the culinary tradition, on Sundays Mum would buy a rotisserie grilled chicken for the family, Dad would roast and carve the chicken and the family would enjoy a splendid, hearty lunch together. The restaurant uses a ‘horizontal spit’ to do their cooking, allowing them to get the perfect crust on the outside and succulent meat on the inside. Join in every Saturday for Rôtisserie Night, with unlimited rotisserie meats, chicken, fish and classic sides. For more information call 4499-0680.

ORYX ROTANA Indian Flavours

Fridays: Choices. Turn your Friday evenings into a celebration of Indian flavours, colours and aromas for QR 160 per person including unlimited juices and soft drinks, or QR 240 including unlimited selected house beverages, or try their premium package for QR 290 including unlimited sparkling vino, house spirits, selected digestives and aperitifs. For more information call 4402-3333.

QUISINE BY GUY SAVOY Private Booking

Saturdays: The restaurant is available for private bookings on Saturdays upon simple reservation, or one year in advance for other days of the week. For more information call 4002-7245 or email reservations@guysavoy.qa.

SHARQ VILLAGE & SPA Dining On Them

Thurs & Fri: Al Dana. Experience the best seafood and sushi at the only oceanfront dining venue in Doha. The outdoor beach terrace offers a more relaxed ambiance with stunning views of the water for a casual-dining gathering spot. This month, be among the three couples to win complimentary dining regardless of the amount of your bill. Winners will be announced at 9:30 p.m. on both evenings. For more information call 4425-6666.

Barbecue By The Pool

Thurs & Fri: Al Seef. Embrace the outdoor vibe with a nice breeze while the weather is coo,l overlooking the magnificent sea. Experience Western-style barbecue at its best with shisha. From 6:30 p.m. till 10:00 p.m. for QR 205. For more information call 4425-6666.

All You Can Eat Fish & Chips

Thurs & Fri: Cigar Lounge. Enjoy the unlimited signature taste of Great Britain every Thursday and Friday from 5:00 p.m. till midnight for QR 55 per person. For more information call 4425-6666.

THE RITZ-CARLTON Paella With Pepe

Saturdays: The Living Room. Enjoy Spanish paella from the talented kitchen of Chef Pepe while chilling out on a beautiful Saturday afternoon overlooking the Gulf Sea. From 12:00 noon till 4:00 p.m. For more information call 4484-8525 or email rc.dohrz.leads@ritzcarlton.com.

Thursday Barbecue

The Lagoon Garden. The barbecue night includes an international buffet and additional BBQ stations. Special suds buckets priced at QR 160 for five bottles. From 6:30 p.m. till 10:30 p.m. For more information call 4484-8512 or email rc.dohrz.leads@ritzcarlton.com.

W DOHA Burger Nights

Saturdays: Market by Jean-Georges. Choose your favourite burger, your favourite side dish and one amazing sundae from the selection for QR 110. From 6:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4453-5135.

Sushi Night

Saturdays: Spice Market. Add some flavour to the start of the week with Spice Market’s comprehensive sushi menu featuring assorted sushi, nigiri, maki and sashimi prepared with the secret condiments of three-Michelin star chef, Jean-Georges Vongerichten and his expert team. QR 230, from 6:00 p.m. till 10:30 p.m. For more information call 4453-5135.

RENAISSANCE DOHA CITY CENTER Seafood Night Thursdays: Crossroads Kitchen. Tiger prawns, mussels, tuna, oysters and the freshest sushi in town! Try the Mongolian stir-fry station where the chef mixes chicken, beef, lamb or seafood with crunchy vegetables. There’s also a delicious chocolate fountain and pastries for those with a sweet tooth. QR 225 including soft beverages and QR 285 including selected beverages. From 6:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4419-6100.

Make Your Own Breakfast!

Fri & Sat: Quick Bites. Continuing the highlysuccessful ‘Make Your Own’ selections, Quick Bites introduces ‘Make Your Own Breakfast’ with not only the traditional eggs, bacon, tomato and hash brown, but a selection of freshly-baked breads, cheeses and cold cuts too. All this topped off with a cup of coffee or tea for QR 40. From 7:00 a.m. till 10:00 a.m. For more information call 4419-6100 or visit www.westenddoha.com.

THE TORCH DOHA Seafood Extravaganza

Thursdays: Flying Carpet. Every Thursday night find a selection of seafood for grilling, frying, wok and many more for only QR 250 per person including selected beverages. From 7:00 p.m. till 10:30 p.m. For more information call 4446-5600 or email reservation@thetorchdoha.com.

Arabian Nights

Fridays: Flying Carpet. Every Friday live the charm of the Orient and indulge in a variety of plates from different Arabic cuisines for QR 190 per person. From 7:00 p.m. till 10:30 p.m. For more information call 4446-5600 or email reservation@thetorchdoha.com.

BRUNCH CROWNE PLAZA DOHA – THE BUSINESS PARK Carnival Brunch

Fridays: Rodizio. Enjoy the unique Brazilian atmosphere and visit Rodizio to experience the taste of carnaval in Rio. QR 265 per adult, QR 130 per child (ages 6-12 years). Children under six years dine free of charge. QR 333 per adult including house beverages. From 12:30 noon till 4:00 p.m. For more information call 4408-7777.

It’s Family Time

Fridays: Aramede. Enjoy family moments at the Friday family brunch with a lavish Arabic-international buffet, including live cooking stations, kids’ play area and live entertainment. QR 205 per adult, QR 105 per child (ages 6-12 years). Children under six years dine free of charge. QR 305 per adult including house beverages. From 12:30 noon till 4:00 p.m. For more information call 4408-7777.

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DOHA MARRIOTT Weekend Brunch

Fri & Sat: The Gallery. A culinary journey like no other, discover an array of live cooking stations and specialties from the Restaurant Gallery, 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, kounafa and more. Now offering a kids’ club zone with a special kids’ buffet and activities. From 12:30 noon till 3:00 p.m., QR 245 or QR 350 for bubbly brunch. For more information call 4429-8499.

The Late Brunch

Fridays: Marriott Open-Air Dining. Shaking up the Doha Brunch scene, join in for Doha’s first and only Late Brunch! Chill out and watch the sunset from your outdoor table with spectacular views across the city and the famous backdrop of the Doha skyline. With cool tunes from famous funky DJ Kinky D, a full grill, buffet and seafood selection, dance the night away under the stars! Including ‘All- in’ bubbly and BBQ for QR 380. From 6:00 p.m. till 10:30 p.m. For more information call 4429-8499.

THE FOUR SEASONS Friday Brunch

Nunsantao: Sea Kitchens. Start the weekend on a leisurely note with The Four Seasons’ Friday Brunch, which offers an array of delicious dining choices to enjoy. The main buffet is a showcase of live Asian cooking stations, as well as hot and cold appetizers and a traditional carvery. They also feature a range of salads and freshly-baked bread, along with a heavenly dessert spread that includes pastries, hot desserts and cakes. QR 330 and QR 415 with house beverages. From 12:00 noon till 4:00 p.m. For more information call 4494-8601.

THE GRAND HYATT La Vita E Bella

Fridays: Rocca. Entice your senses at Rocca with the new Italian brunch prepared in a lively open kitchen and wood-fired oven. Dine al fresco on the new terrace embedded in green landscape with views of the pool and the Arabian Gulf, or sit indoors and enjoy the winter sunshine through the glass walls of Rocca. QR 295 including all you can drink vino and birra. From 12:00 noon till 3:30 p.m. For more information call 7021-8096.

Thai Brunches

Fridays: Isaan. Guests who prefer an authentic and spicy weekend meal can book a table at Isaan for a special Thai brunch every Friday from 12:30 noon until 4:00 p.m. The brunch includes dishes from all areas of Thailand, and the restaurant’s creative and innovative chefs will assist guests in choosing cuisine from various live cooking stations. A range of options are available; for example, the soft drinks brunch is available at QR 250, and the Moët brunch at QR 680. For more information call 4448-1250.

HOLIDAY VILLA HOTEL Dim Sum Brunch

Fridays: D’Chopstix. Enjoy a delicious dim sum brunch with family and friends along with free-flowing Chinese tea. QR 138 and QR 68 for children between the ages of 4 to 12 years. For more information call 4408-4888.

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA Grand Mussel Brunch

Friday: Belgian Café. Enjoy the most delicious mussels and Belgian house beverages in town for QR 275 from 12:30 noon till 3:30 p.m. For more information call 4484-4919 or 4484-4444.

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Food & Dining Listings Seafood Brunch

Fridays: Fish Market. Indulge in their luxurious buffet and a market display featuring lobsters, oysters and tiger prawns. Choose from a wide range of beverage options to complement your meal while enjoying live music and stunning views of the Arabian Sea and Doha’s skyline. QR 320 including unlimited house beverages. From 12:30 noon till 3:30 p.m. For more information call 4484-4919 or 4484-4444.

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA THE CITY Friday Brunch The Square. Enjoy a cosmopolitan brunch for QR 330 including selected house beverages and QR 230 including soft drinks and mocktails. From 12:00 noon till 4:00 p.m. For more information call 4015-8888 or email doharestaurants@ihg.com.

LA VARENNE French Country Brunch

Fridays: Tornado Tower. Their unique French Country Brunch is a success. Join in every Friday from 12:00 noon till 4:00 p.m. to indulge in their 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 all for QR 179. For more information call 4499-0680 or email reservations@lavarenne.qa.

ORYX ROTANA Jazzy Friday Brunch

Choices. Every Friday no one does it better! Brunch starts at 12:30 noon and ends at 4:00 p.m. offering a wide variety of food and beverages with live jazz music. (Last order for beverages is at 3:15 p.m.) QR 250 including unlimited juices and soft drinks or QR 325 including unlimited selected house beverages. For more information call 4402-3333.

THE DIPLOMATIC CLUB Spanish Brunch

Fridays: Enjoy a rich Spanish buffet including tapas and paella and many other traditional Spanish dishes for only QR 160 including water and excluding any other beverages. The Spanish Day on the February 14 will be themed for Valentine’s and a surprise awaits ladies and gents on that day. For more information call 4484-7412.

RENAISSANCE DOHA CITY CENTER Friday Brunch Ipanema Brazilian Churrascaria. Take a trip to Rio de Janeiro every Friday with a feast of Brazilian meats and the only authentic Brazilian band in Doha. Ipanema is the place to come for a super brunch, flambé desserts and live entertainment. QR 250 includes soft beverages and QR 320 includes selected beverages. Valet parking included. From 12:30 p.m. till 3:30 p.m. For more information call 4419-6100 or visit www.westenddoha.com.

Friday Family Brunch

Crossroads Kitchen. Offering a delicious international brunch of Chinese, Spanish, French, Italian, Indian, Arabic and more. Kids are kept entertained with games, face-painting and movies while you relax with a cocktail in hand. QR 225 includes soft beverages and QR 275 includes selected beverages Children ages seven to 12 dine half price, while children under age six dine complimentary. Valet parking included. From 12:00 p.m. till 3:30 p.m. For more information call 4419-6100 or visit www.westenddoha.com.

SHERATON DOHA Friday Brunch

Fridays: Al Hubara. Enjoy a brunch with an international buffet featuring local specialties including Ouzi and Oumali for QR 210. For more information call 4485-4071 or email F&Breservations.Doha@sheraton.com.

THE ST. REGIS DOHA Brunch

Fri & Sat: Opal by Gordon Ramsay. Experience the true British brunch experience with a selection of Gordon Ramsay signature breakfast items. Book a table on the terrace and enjoy the beautiful weather! Extend brunch with an exclusive buy-one-get-one happy hour from 4:00 p.m. till 6:00 p.m. QR 250 inclusive of soft beverages and QR 375 inclusive of grape, grain and sparkling beverages, from 12:00 noon till 4:00 p.m. For more information call 4446-0105 or email diningreservations@stregis.com.

Family Friday Brunch

Vine.Gather with family and friends and experience a lavish buffet with treats for everyone. Parents can relax with live reggae music and enjoy breath-taking views from the terrace. Entertainment for children is provided by The St. Regis Doha recreation team and includes fun games, face-painting and lots of creative activities. QR 295 per person with soft drinks and QR 395 per person including sommelier selection, from 12:30 noon till 4:00 p.m. For more information call 4446-0105 or email diningreservations@stregis.com.

THE RITZ-CARLTON Brunch

Fridays: The Lagoon. Bring all the family for a relaxing weekend brunch. Live music complements the delicious buffet of Middle Eastern specialties and international live cooking stations. Children have their own junior buffet and entertainment. QR 250 per person including soft beverages, QR 335 per person including bubbly, or QR 375 for full brunch. Kids under the age of four can dine for free. QR 120 for kids ages 4-12 years old. From 12:30 noon till 4:00 p.m. For more information call 4484-8512 or email rc.dohrz.leads@ritzcarlton.com.

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THE TORCH Friday Barbecue Bazaar Brunch

Flying Carpet. Choose from a wide selection of steaks, Oriental BBQ, fish, burgers and hot dogs for only QR 199 net per person including selected beverages .From 12:00 noon till 3:30 p.m. Special rate of QR 95 for children between the ages of 6 and 12 only. For more information call 4446-5600 or email reservation@thetorchdoha.com.

Saturday Torch Brunch

Flying Carpet. Presenting an array of specialties from the Mediterranean, Asia and Latin America for only QR 199 per person including selected beverages. Served from 12:00 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. Special rate of QR 95 for children between the ages of 6 and 12 only. For more information call 4446-5600.

W DOHA Jazz Brunch

Fridays: Market by Jean-Georges. Enjoy a jazz brunch with live entertainment for QR 380 including selected house beverages or QR 290 including selected soft drinks. For more information call 4453-5135.

Friday Brunch

Spice Market. Asian street food meets slick city chic at the new up-market weekly Friday brunch. Dine in style while enjoying a backdrop of live, upbeat swing music courtesy of Doha Jazz. QR 380 including selected house beverages and QR 290 including soft drinks. From 12:00 noon till 4:00 p.m. For more information call 4453-5135.

WYNDHAM GRAND REGENCY Brunch

Fridays: Tangia Restaurant. Presenting a traditional Moroccan brunch buffet with a variety of tagines, salads and Moroccan bread. QR 149 per person, from 12:00 noon till 4:00 p.m. For more information call 4434-3203/3333 or email fzohrahalably@wyndham.com.

BUSINESS LUNCH CHOWKING

Sun-Thurs: Enjoy a delicious meal with the trusted Chowking flavours you love in under 30 minutes. From 1:00 p.m. till 3:00 p.m. at all locations. For more information call Delivery Hotline: 4431-1212, Mamoura: 4486-6077, Al Khor: 4411-8816/17, Salwa Road: 4437-1212, Al Sadd St.: 4431-4411. Holiday Villa Hotel: 4411-5225/335.

CROWNE PLAZA DOHA – THE BUSINESS PARK The Deal Is Done

Sat-Tues: Aramede. Combine business with pleasure at Aramede restaurant and unwind from your heavy working hours with a healthy and quick business lunch. QR 95 per person including local mineral water. From 12:00 noon till 3:30 p.m. For more information call 4408-7777.

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HILTON DOHA Business Lunch

Sat-Thurs: La Sahtaine. Recharge from your morning in the office with a three -course set lunch at La Sahtaine. Nestled on the first level of the Hilton Doha, La Sahtaine is a cozy and elegant restaurant overlooking the beach. QR 88, from noon till 3:00 p.m. For more information call 4423-3333.

KEMPINSKI RESIDENCES & SUITES Sat-Thurs: Aroma. Stay healthy and select a low-calorie menu option from the revamped Business Lunch by Kempinski. Simple and delicious flavours, carefully selected fresh produce and creative preparation are the ingredients for the finest business lunch in Doha. QR 90 per person with a dessert-to-go option. From 12:00 noon till 3:00 p.m. For more information call 4405-3325 or email restaurants.doha@kempinski.com, or visit www.kempinski.com/doha.

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

LA CIGALE HOTEL Business Lunch Formula

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

ORYX ROTANA X'Press Lunch & Dinner

Express Buffet Lunch

Sat-Thurs: Vine. Enjoy an express lunch buffet in Vine Restaurant. An extensive selection of international cuisine and a scenic terrace to dine on, it’s the perfect lunchtime getaway. QR 150, from 12:30 noon till 4:00 p.m. For more information call 4446-0105 or email diningreservations@stregis.com.

Business Lunch

Mon-Sat: Al Sultan Brahim. Experience the taste of authentic Lebanese cuisine at the most famed Lebanese restaurant in Doha. Al Sultan Brahim offers a three-course lunch menu featuring a selection of mezze, fish of the day and desserts made from traditional recipes. QR 100 for three courses, from 12:00 noon till 4:00 p.m. For more information call 4446-0105 or email diningreservations@stregis.com.

W DOHA Express Lunch

Sat-Thurs: La Spiga by Paper Moon. Choose your favourite Italian starter, main course and dessert for just QR 95 per person, daily except Fridays. From 12:00 p.m. till 4:00 p.m. For more information call 4453-5135 or email bnfreservations.wdoha@whotels.com.

Express Lunch

Sat-Thurs: Market by Jean-Georges. Enjoy a three-course lunch for only QR 95 per person. Choose your favourite starter, main course and dessert in just half an hour. From 12:00 noon till 4:00 p.m. For more information call 4453-5135 or email bnfreservations.wdoha@whotels.com.

SPECIAL LISTINGS ASPIRE KATARA HOSPITALITY Sukar Pasha Ottoman Lounge

March: High tea at El Cigar Lounge. Come and experience an assortment of exquisite delights, elegantly served in style. From 3:00 p.m. till 12:00 midnight. For more information call 4408-0750.

L’wzaar Seafood Market

March: Katara Cultural Village. Their special main course might be your first choice. Visit L’wzaar and relish their recommendation of the day. Available for lunch and dinner daily. March: Experience their Tandoori grill and Thai curry cooking styles for your fresh seafood. Other cooking styles are also available. Please ask the team for assistance. For more information call 4408-0710.

Chac’late

March: Introducing their new Chac’Late Organic Egg Breakfast. Their newly-designed breakfast menu now offers this organic egg breakfast served fresh and healthy at QR 48. Available from 8:00 a.m. till 11:00 a.m. daily. March: Introducing their new Chac’Late Cheese Platter. Served with varieties of high-grade cheese along with homemade toast, marmalade and fresh grapes at QR 45, available daily. March: Enjoy 30% off on Amedei chocolates – a true Italian chocolate, available daily for the month of March. For more information call 4408-0733.

Shawarma Albisana

March: 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

March: Katara Cultural Village. Offering the best traditional kunafa with Nabulsi cheese imported from Jordan for dine-in and take-away at Kunafa Albisana in Katara. For more information call 4408-1200.

Daily: The Cellar. Every day is quick-bite time and everyone is ready for it. Enjoy the Cellar’s 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.

March: Katara Cultural Village. Enjoy their new Sunday special of beef tripe soup, a traditional dish with garlic, lemon and spices. Available on Sundays for the month of March. March: Succulent spit-roasted whole lamb, well-marinated, seasoned to perfection and served with aromatic traditional Turkish rice for QR 99 per serving, starting at 7:00 p.m. For more information call 4408-2000.

Le Vesuvio

RENAISSANCE DOHA CITY CENTER Express Lunch

Red Velvet Cupcakery

Aspire Grand Café

Sun-Thurs: Cucina, The Italian Kitchen. Choose from five entrees, five mains and three desserts made from the freshest Italian ingredients for QR 85. Valet parking included. From 12:00 noon till 3:00 p.m. For more informaiton call 4419-6100.

THE ST. REGIS DOHA

Sun-Thurs: Opal by Gordon Ramsay. Be it with colleagues, clients or friends, enjoy a delicious three-course lunch. A different chef-selected menu available each week for QR 100, from 12:00 noon till 3:00 p.m.For more information call 4446-0105 or email diningreservations@stregis.com.

March: Katara Cultural Village. Decorate Your Own Cupcake! It’s fun and very educational, the best way to spend quality time for families with their children. Each plain cupcake goes with edible decorations for only QR 30. Apron and chef’s hat will be provided. March: Come and celebrate your children’s birthday party at QR 60 per child with their Decorate Your Own Cupcake birthday party package. Advance reservation is required. For more information call 4408-0700.

El Cigar Lounge

March: Katara Cultural Village. Experience the vintage club car ride in full comfort and convenience to and from the Katara parking lot. It’s free, daily. For pick-up call 4408-0750 as soon as you arrive.

March: Katara Cultural Village. Check out the kids’ menu. le Vesuvio is happy to serve all of its guests, especially kids, with its healthful kids’ menu options. From 12:00 noon till 3:00 p.m. and from 7:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m., Monday to Saturday. March: le Vesuvio serves authentic Italian pizza from 12:00 noon till 11:00 p.m., Monday to Saturday. For more information call 4408-1500.

March: Enjoy healthy choices for breakfast while visiting the park. Fresh croissants, sunny-side up or omelette egg dishes and crêpes are available. For more information call 4408-1996.

Burgerry

March: Aspire Park. Introducing their new B. Bites, homemade chicken nuggets prepared from chicken breasts well-marinated with their special Burgerry infusion. March: Introducing the new Burgerry Fun Meal. Each meal comes in their beautifully-designed Fun Box with a fruit juice, a regular French fries and a choice of the B. Classic, B. Cheesy, Good Dog or their new B. Bites (served with special sauces). Don’t forget to look inside the box for a special gift.

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

International

Chinese

4411-0188

Chopsticks 4434-3333

Al Hubara

4485-4444

Chili’s 4466-0663

D’Chopstix 4408-4888

Al Liwan Restaurant

4424-2888

Ipanema 4419-6100

Royal Bafilyon

4411-4458

Al Matbakh Rooftop Grill

4433-6777

Johnny Rockets

4455-2792

Ruby Wu’s

4428-1428

Al Shaheen Restaurant

4485-4444

Latino 4485-4444

Wok of Fame

4413-4772

Animato 4496-6600

Oyster Bay

4446-0105

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

4443-7846

Rodizio Brazilian Churrascaria

4408-7777

Salsa 4429-8888 TGI Friday’s

4488-7008

Arabic & Lebanese

Contemporary European Aroma 4405-3325 Astor Grill

4446-0105

Belgian Café

4484-4444

Gordon Ramsay

4446-0105

La Mer

4484-8000

Market by Jean-Georges

4453-5135

Nando’s

Delivery Hotline 4436-0606

Opal by Gordon Ramsay

4446-0105

Agora 4445-5555 Al Balad

4491-8692

French

Al Bandar

4431-1818

La Sahtaine

4423-3333

Al Batross

4432-8888

La Varenne

4499-0680

Al Canteen

4433-6666

Al Mourjan

4483-4423

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

Al Sayyad

4484-7420

Maxim 4428-1428

Al Sultan Brahim

4446-0105

Quisine by Guy Savoy

Al Tawash

4498-2002

Sormani 4495-3876 Ext. 3222

Argan 4433-6666 Burj Al Hamam

4495-3876

Istanbul Sultan Dining Restaurant 4468-5089 Khan Rafouk Tarab Café

4408-0840

Layali 4431-0005 Lebanese Shawarma

4466-2616

Liza 4495-3876 Majlis 4448-1234 Marmara Istanbul

4436-2947

Tajine 4435-5554 Tangia 4434-3333 The Tent

4432-8888

Turkey Central

4443-2927

4002-7245

Indian

Blue Brasserie Restaurant

4472-2666

Choices 4402-3333 Corniche 4429-8888 Cosmo Restaurant

4424-7777

Crossroads Kitchen

4419-6100

De Dine Zone Restaurant

4470-8822

East 4433-6666 Flying Carpet

4446-5600

Grand Gourmet

4434-3333

La Brasserie

4446-2222

La Cigalon Restaurant

4428-8888

Lifestyle Restaurant

4463-2154

Mawasem 4423-3333 Mehfil Restaurant Nando’s

4409-4444

Delivery Hotline 4436-0606

The Dining Room (Al Najada Boutique Hotel)

4433-6666

The Dining Room (Fraser Suites Hotel)

4424-3444

The Grill

4448-1234

The Lagoon

4484-8000

Three Sixty 4446-5600

Biryani Hut

4464-1401

Bombay Baiti

4428-1428

Chingari 4428-1428 Idyl Factory

6674-1143

Royal Indian

4466-6876

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

3325-8919

Sukh Sagar

4431-9172

Taj Rasoi

4429-8888

Vine 4446-0105

Italian Bice Ristorante

4495-3876

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

4428-8698

Fabio’s Pizza

4416-5641

II Teatro

4494-8888

La Dolce Vita Italian Restaurant

4436-7991

La Veranda

4485-4444

Picasso’s 4428-1428

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Porcini 4484-8000 Rocca 4448-1234 Romano’s Macaroni Grill

4451-7585

The Italian Job

4428-1428

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Japanese

Bar Food

Cafés

Neo 4432-2508

Belgian Café

4484-4444

Oishi Sushi

4442-8989

De Ozone

4470-8822

Alison Nelson’s Chocolate Bar

4495-3878 Ext. 1311

Sakura 4428-1428

Madison Piano Bar

4428-8888

Al Jalsa

4425-6666

Strata Restaurant & Lounge

4015-8888

Pool Bar

4484-4444

Al Kut Lounge

4434-3203

Sushi Minto

4467-5577

Shehrazad 4428-1428

Al Mandarine

4463-3748

Yen Sushi Bar

4428-8888

The Irish Harp

4485-4444

Atrium Lounge

4485-4444

The Lounge

4405-3325

Bab Al Baher

4423-3333

Mediterranean

Wahm 4453-5353

Aramede 4408-7777

Burgers

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

Bistro Bistro

4428-1428

La Villa

4446-2222

American Grill

Le Central Restaurant

4428-8888

Chili’s 4466-0663

Medi @ The Village

4444-4700

Fuddruckers

4411-0188 4483-3983

Café De Biznez

4470-8822

Café Tasse

4444-7017

Café Vergnano 4495-3876 Ext. 2611

Mykonos 4484-4444

Hardee’s 4467-8750

Coffee Time

4466-7551

The Cellar

Johnny Rockets

4455-2792

Colombiano

4434-2753

4488-7008

Dean and Deluca

4451-9780

Dell @ The Village

4444-4700

Gourmet House

4405-3333

Jones the Grocer

4407-7175

La Margarita

4409-4444

Le Gourmet

4436-1789

Lime Café

4496-6600

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

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

Moka and Co

4458-3232

Orangery Café Troittor

4428-8888

Quick Bites

4419-6134

4428-1428

Sarab Lounge

4446-0105

JW’s Steakhouse

4429-8888

Savor 4408-7777

Le Grill

4484-7412

Shisha Garden

4428-8888

New York Steakhouse

4419-6100

Sky Lounge

4402-3333

Prime 4015-8888

Sugar and Spice

4411-4456

The Anvil Rooms

4499-0685

The Courtyard

4433-6444

The Butcher Shop and Grill

4413-5508

The Drawing Room

4433-6666

4446-2222

The Lobby Lounge

4484-8000

The Terrace Lounge

4433-6555

Torch Café

4446-5600

W Café

4453-5353

Ya Hala

4423-3333

4402-3333

TGI Friday’s

Seafood

Persian Grill @ The Village

4444-4700

Southeast Asian Asia Live!

4429-8888

Chowking Delivery Hotline 4431-1212 Mamoura 4486-6077 Al Khor 4411-8816/17 Salwa Road 4437-1212 Al Sadd St. 4431-4411 Holiday Villa 4411-5225/335 Isaan 4448-1250 Mango Tree

4495-3876

Nusantao: Sea Kitchens

4494-8888

Spice Market

4453-5353

Sri Kebaya

4434-0838

The Noodle House City Center Mall The Pearl

4411-5063 4495-3876

Wok Mee Noodle House

4496-6600

Al Dana

4425-6666

Al Dente Seafood Restaurant

4472-2666

Al Sayyad

4484-7420

Al Sultan Brahim

4446-0105

Fish Market

4484-4444

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

4428-1428

Steakhouses Bentley’s Grill

The Old Manor Steakhouse

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Sports

s k c i P p o T ’s This Month

Al Shaqab

Qatar Olympic Committe

7th Edition School Olympic Program Finals March 20: Aspire Dome. The School Olympic Program initiated in 2007 and is now in its 7th year running. The initiative was started as part of the 2030 National Vision and the Qatar Sports Sector Strategy and focuses on the development of young athletes in Qatar. This year’s theme is titled ‘Sports and Integrity’. This year’s finals will see more than 20,000 students from more than 200 schools participating in numerous competitions including athletics, gymnastics, football, swimming, fencing, table tennis, tennis, handball, volleyball and basketball. For more information visit www.olympic.qa.

Qatar Sailing & Rowing Federation

2014 Indoor Rowing Championships

March 6-8: Aspire Dome. The event is organized by the Qatar Sailing and Rowing Federation and is affiliated with the Asian Rowing Federation. It will feature some of Asia’s best rowers and will be staged at the prestigious Aspire Dome. For more information visit www.qatarsailing.org.

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QH March 2014- FINAL.indd 91

Sharq Village & Spa Functional Training Group March 22: Al Dana Island. Fabio and Suranga will take you on an active, cardio-blasting performance test that is great for all ages and body types. This session is ideal for anyone looking to boost their potential and fitness strength before the hot months of the summer. Starts at 3:30 p.m., for QR 60. For more information call 4425-6999/6995.

Chi Al Shaqab International Equestrian Competition 2014 March 10-15: Al Shaqab, Qatar Foundation. The world’s top riders will compete in this international equestrian competition comprising of four equestrian disciplines: Jumping (CSI 5* and CSI 3*), Dressage (CDI 4*), Endurance (CSI 2*) and Vaulting. A spectator plaza containing tents is set up at Al Shaqab for the event and includes a number of vendors, restaurants, entertainment areas, kids’ zones, vaulting demonstrations, and other cultural shows suitable for all members of the family. For more information visit www.alshaqab.com.

Qatar Olympic Committee Islamic Triathlon March 21 & 22: Sealine & Endurance Village (near Sealine Beach Resort). The Islamic Triathlon is an annual event that includes shooting, swimming and endurance racing. The event is organized by the Qatar Olympic Committee, the Qatar Shooting and Archery Federation (QSAF), the Qatar Swimming Association (QSA) and the Qatar Endurance Committee (QEC). For more information visit www.olympic.qa.

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Sports

7 Artistic th

Gymnastics

World Cup

By Jorge Granda Photography by Jessie Palanca Additional images courtesy of the Qatar Gymnastics Federation

A host of talented young athletes will descend on Doha from March 26-28 to participate in this world-class competition held at Aspire Dome. QH brings you floor-side.

he 7th edition of the Artistic Gymnastics World Cup 2014 will see the top male and female gymnasts from around the world coming to Qatar to compete. Athletes are invited based on the results from the previous world championships or Olympic Games and the winners will be awarded prize money. Last year’s edition saw the Romanians shine with four gold medals. Seventeen-year-old Diane Bullimar got the crowds excited when she displayed a stellar floor routine, while on the parallel bars Andrei Vasile Muntean, another Romanian, captured the gold and Korea’s Jin Hyok Kim took silver and China’s Qiuhua Liao took the bronze. Last year’s competition was attended by more than 2,000 spectators, making the Artistic Gymnastic World Cup 2013 the most successful ever staged on Qatari soil. The massive success of the sporting event spurred organizers to produce an even bigger spectacle with more entertainment. This year, for the first time, a 200-square metre fan zone will be built while a DJ is set to provide music throughout the entire show – making it more attractive and more interactive. Balloons and white boards will also be handed out to all children and there will be a prize draw for spectators upon registration at the welcome desk.

Qatari gymnast Shaden Wahdan performs her balance beam routine

The Artistic Gymnastics World Cup currently stands as one of the biggest and most relevant worldclass competitions. Gymnasts from countries such as Brazil, China, Germany, Japan, Korea, Qatar, Romania, the USA and Turkey, among many others, will participate.

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Gymnasts will compete over six apparatus for men and four apparatus for women: Men’s Apparatus • Floor exercises • Pommel horse • Rings • Vault • Parallel bars • Horizontal bar Women’s Apparatus • Vault • Uneven bars • Balance beam • Floor exercises

A gymnast is caught mid-flip on the aparatus

Competition Schedule Wed, March 26 3:00 p.m. till 8:00 p.m. • Qualification competition

Taut agility propels a male competitor to new heights

Thurs, March 27 5:00 p.m. till 8:00 p.m. • Apparatus Finals. Men’s competition (Floor exercises - Pommel horse - Rings) • Women’s competition (Vault - Uneven bars) Fri, March 28 5:00 p.m. till 8:00 p.m. • Apparatus Finals. Men’s competition (Vault - Parallel bars - Horizontal bar) • Women’s Competition (Balance beam - Floor exercises)

Artistic Gymnastics World Cup Meetings Across The Globe: March • Cottbus, Germany • Doha, Qatar April • Zibo City, China • Maribor, Slovenia • Osijek, Croatia June • Ghent, Belgium. n

7TH ARTISTIC GYMNASTICS WORLD CUP Date: March 26-28 Venue: Aspire Dome Category: Only senior gymnasts Info: Find out more at www.qatargym.com or at www.fig-gymnastics.com. If you would like to receive free tickets for this event please email frank@qatargym.com.

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Sports

A class of paddlers make their way past the Museum of Islamic Art

Paddle Away By Charlie Sands Images courtesy of Paddle Qatar

Make the most of the best that nature has to offer in Qatar by taking to the sea for a day of fun, sun, fitness and adventure with Paddle Qatar.

aving been brought up with a paddle in his hand, Boyd Taylor has made his way through kayaking tours on the mighty Zambezi river in Zimbabwe, being dropped from a helicopter into previously uncharted stretches of the Congo River, and is now running his own kayak tour business here in Qatar.

As well as the city and Al Safliya Island tours that start on the waters around Doha, Boyd organizes trips to the mangrove forests at Al Thakira, just north of Al Khor, where you can let nature take over and marvel at the bird life and beautiful scenery.

The 29-year-old Zimbabwean says: “The Zambezi and the Congo were incredibly fun, but what we do here is just as good fun, and a lot of people just don't know what is out there.”

“Most people don't know it's there but it's a really big mangrove forest and you will see flamingos, egrets, herons and many other birds.”

Paddle Qatar tours certainly offer people the chance to see Qatar from a different angle, whether it's taking a tour around the Museum of Islamic Art or visiting the mangroves and flamingos in Al Thakira, there seems to be something for everyone here.

What Paddle Qatar seeks to offer, as well as the obvious healthy and fun day out, is packages that suit different ages and abilities and explore different parts of the peninsula that are largely unknown to residents here.

Boyd is already taking bookings from schools and businesses, as well as tourists and residents who want to try something different but in a safe and very accessible way.

“We are looking at new locations, and would like to explore the mangroves at the northern tip, Al Ruwais,” says Boyd. Children as young as age four can take part in the trips, with adult supervision, and school trips generally start for kids ages ten and above.

He says: “The idea is very simple: To get on the water, see something different, and have a good time. The kayaks are very easy to manage so even people with no experience can do it.”

So if you, your friends and your family are bored of Friday brunches and days at the pool and are looking for a different kind of thrill, then Paddle Qatar is worth a try. n

Paddle Qatar's Boyd Taylor has spent his life outdoors and on the water

PADDLE QATAR FACTFILE • There are currently four regular tours which include: Mangrove exploration, mangrove beach and flamingoes, the Pearl and Al Safliya Island, MIA and Dhow Harbour sunset, Al Aaliya Island tour, and overnight camp and kayak. • Starting this month Paddle Qatar is offering Paddle Fitness classes, a kind of boot camp on the water. • On the horizon are Adventure Races which will combine kayaking with other activities such as running, cycling and orienteering. • Also look out for kayaking and yoga on the beach. • Tours cost QR 200 and soft drinks are included. • All you need is: suitable clothing for the weather plus sun protection, warmer clothes if it's cold or windy, a towel and a change of clothes, a packed lunch or some snacks to keep you going and enthusiasm! • Visit www.paddleqatar.com for more information or to make a booking.

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Sports

o i d r a C e v i t c u r t s n Co By Jonny Parr Photography by Jessie Palanca

Last month we zoomed in on the importance and benefits of resistance training. Now, in this second installment of building a fitness program, the pros at Absolute Fitness introduce a second component you need to consider – cardio and conditioning! What Is It? Before we delve into some specific routines, let’s identify and break down some essential fitness jargon. • Cardio: This refers to any activity that challenges and improves the cardiovascular system (heart and lungs). The term is commonly associated with long, continuous steady state exercise that utilizes the aerobic energy system (with oxygen). ‘Cardio’ examples include those found on cardio equipment (i.e. cycling on an exercise bike), and others such as swimming, boxing, and outdoor

running. Put simply, cardio refers to being able to get your heart pumping, that’s it. Although cardio can elicit a training response, it’s very minor in terms of what most people are looking for such as fat loss and building lean muscle (tone). A far better alternative is known as conditioning. • Conditioning: At this time, it’s worth noting that many people make the mistake of thinking cardio is the same as conditioning. This is untrue. Generally, both target the cardiovascular system, however conditioning can improve all the energy systems of the body - aerobic,

anaerobic, ATP-CP, refine your work capacity, and generally improve your fitness performance in all manners. Common conditioning activities include interval running, bodyweight circuits, weight-based circuits, and many sports (football/squash). Put simply, improved conditioning will allow you to work harder, work longer, recover quicker, burn fat easier, and perform any task a lot easier. It is for these reasons, that Absolute Fitness by far prefers conditioning as opposed to cardio. • Work Capacity: The late and renowned sports scientist Mel Siff describes work capacity as “the general ability of the body as a machine to produce different intensity and duration using the appropriate energy systems of the body.” Therefore, improved work capacity can refer to your ability to lift more weight, complete more reps, build/maintain muscle (lean and bulk), run

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Conditioning Routine #1 (No Equipment) You can perform this routine essentially anywhere as it requires little space and no equipment. Your bodyweight will serve as resistance. 1. Push-ups x 10 2. Reverse lunges x 20 (10 per leg before switching to other side) 3. Sit-ups x 15 4. Hamstring walks x 10 5. Mountain climbers x 30

Conditioning Routine #2 (Equipment) For this routine you’ll need two pieces of equipment, a TRX (www.trxtraining.com) and a medicine ball. 1. Medicine ball slams x 20 2. Front lunges x 20 (10 per leg before switching to other side) – Hold a light medicine ball against your chest or above your head for more difficulty. 3. TRX rows x 10 4. TRX hamstring curls x 10 5. TRX sprints x 20 Both routines are not for the faint-hearted and can prove very challenging. In order to regress, simply reduce the number of reps per exercise or reduce the total work time (10 minutes instead of 15 minutes). If you’re super-fit, you can progress the routine by adding reps or increasing the total work time (20 minutes instead of 15 minutes). Whatever you decide, be sure to record the number of rounds you complete and aim to better that score the next time you attempt the routine (progression).

Absolute Fitness trainer Coral Riley works out with a medicine ball in FIT at the W Doha

for longer, run faster, and recover quicker. Much like resistance training, improved work capacity can also serve as a foundation to every other fitness quality, which in turn will help your body run more efficiently meaning better overall health. So what does this all mean? As with strength training, conditioning will be vital if you are

to reach your fitness and health-related goals. Better conditioning equals better results. With this being said, here are two conditioning routines to get you started. For both, you will perform all five exercises for the prescribed number of reps, with no rest, or as little as possible. That’s one round. Complete as many rounds as you can in 12-15 minutes.

Finally, if you’re unsure about any of the exercises listed or are looking for more information, please don’t hesitate to email info@absolutefitness.me and we’ll answer your questions promptly. Most importantly, give the routines a try, give us your feedback, and look forward to a fitter and brighter future! n

Jonny Parr is the founder of Absolute Fitness in Qatar (www.absolutefitnessqatar.com). If you’re interested in individual or group personal training call 3385-2696 or email info@absolutefitness.me.

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Sports Listings RECOMMENDS

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA Wing Chun

Mon & Fri: Wing Chun is widely accepted as the most effective martial art and taught to special forces and military personnel across the world. The most famous figure of Wing Chun is Bruce Lee. Techniques learned will give you practical skills on how to protect yourself through self-defense disciplines. Suitable for all ages. Parents and children can enjoy this program and its benefits together. Mondays from 8:00 p.m. till 9:30 p.m., Fridays (kids and adults class) from 1:00 p.m. till 2:30 p.m.

ONE OF A KIND SHARQ VILLAGE & SPA Full Moon Yoga

March 18: Al Dana Island. Practice yoga under the beautiful Doha sky. Starts at 7:00 p.m., QR 60 or QR 30 for members. For more information call 4425-6999/6995.

EVERY WEEK THE FOUR SEASONS Power Yoga

Tues & Thurs: Enrol in a 75-minute Dynamic Yoga Practice which includes strengthening power positions to improve strength, balance and flexibility. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s energizing, detoxifying and also improves breathing capacity. QR 80. Tuesdays from 8:30 a.m. till 9:45 a.m. and from 7:00 p.m. till 8:15 p.m., and Thursdays from 8:30 a.m. till 9:45 a.m.

Prana Flow Yoga

Sundays: Enrol in a 75-minute class using gentle energy movements to help create a meditative experience which will reduce stress and allow the body to feel light and restored. QR 80. Sundays from 8:30 a.m. till 9:45 a.m.

Boot Camp

Mondays: Fitness Center. Get your body back, work hard and gain more in this 60-minute session. QR 85. From 6:00 p.m. till 7:00 p.m.

Cycling

Mon, Wed & Fri: A 60-minute Activio cycling class with surprises that target your heart rate to get it in the 60-85% zone. QR 60, Mondays from 10:00 a.m. till 11:00 a.m., Wednesdays from 7:00 p.m. till 8:00 p.m. and Fridays from 8:30 a.m. till 9:30 a.m. For more information on all classes call 4494-8801.

GOKULAM PARK DOHA Sports & Fitness

Daily: Health Club. Burn off your calories at the state-of-the-art health club with the latest equipment overlooking the city. Or, draw out toxins while soothing weary and aching muscles and joints in the sauna and steam room on the 12th floor. Opening hours are Sunday to Thursday from 6:00 a.m. till 11:00 p.m., and Friday and Saturday from 8:00 a.m. till 8:00 p.m. For more information call 4470-8822/33/55, or visit www.gokulamdoha.com.

Danzika

Sundays: A dance-based cardiovascular workout through Latin rhythms and modern songs. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s sultry and physical with playful movements that are endlessly entertaining, sometimes even breath-taking. The moves are dynamic and easy to follow. From 8:15 a.m. till 9:15 a.m. Members QR 30/non-members QR 50.

Pilates Sculpt

Sun & Tues: This special class focuses on a series of non-impact exercises designed to develop abdominal strength, flexibility, balance and improved postural alignment. Slow and controlled movements strengthen and lengthen muscles to help re-balance the body. Sundays from 9:30 a.m. till 10:30 a.m., Tuesdays from 9:15 a.m. till 10:15 a.m. Members QR 30 / non-members QR 50.

Boxing Fitness

Fridays: This class combines the principles of boxing such as basic punching, defending and foot work with cardio exercises specific for boxing training. Participants will develop coordination, balance and control. From 4:00 p.m. till 5:00 p.m. Members QR 30 / non-members QR 50.

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Activities & Clubs gorized d s are cate All listing Inclusion is limiteh per hotel. ility of space, wit . to availabiven to advertisers priority g

Ashtanga Yoga

Mon, Wed & Sat: This intense form of yoga involves standing and seated poses, back bends and inversions. This vigorous, athletic style of practice appeals to those who like a sense of order and who like to do things independently. This class is 75-minutes long, Mondays and Wednesdays from 8:30 a.m. till 9:45 a.m., and Saturdays 3:30 p.m. till 4:45 p.m. Members QR 45 / non-members QR 65. For more information on all classes call 4484-4852.

LA CIGALE Ozone Gym & Spa

Daily: Be part of Ozone Gym and Spa’s newly-launched fitness classes (Power Toning, Ultimate Core, Explosive Cardio and soon, Spinning). Fee per class: QR 60 per person. Reservations are required for some classes. For more information call 4428-8101.

RENAISSANCE DOHA CITY CENTER Yoga Classes Daily (upon request): Balance your mind and body at your choice of time and day. QR 65 for 60-minute session, available seven days a week. For more information call 4419-6090 or visit www.westenddoha.com.

THE DIPLOMATIC CLUB Pilates

Sun, Mon & Wed: Pilates is the system of strengthening and stretching exercises designed to develop the body’s core, mobilize the spine and build flexibility. It teaches you how to train your mind and build symmetry and coordination in the body. From 5:00 p.m. till 5:45 p.m.

Zumba

Sun, Mon, Tues & Thurs: A global lifestyle brand that fuses fitness, entertainment and culture into an exhilarating dance party workout! It’s a combination of different types of dance styles from hip-hop and Latin to house and even contemporary! This 50-minute cardio workout will have something for everybody! Sundays from 6:15 p.m. till 7:15 p.m. Mondays from 6:15 p.m. till 7:15 p.m., Tuesdays and Thursdays from 5:00 p.m. till 5:45 p.m.

Aqua Dance Fitness

Sat & Tues: Captivates the joy of movement and the expression of life through integrating world rhythms and music. The fusion of aquatic fitness with dance-based choreography will give you a movement base free from the boundaries. Saturdays and Tuesdays from 10:00 a.m. till 10:45 a.m. For more information on all of the above classes call 4484-7450, or email spa.recreation@dclub.com.qa.

Bike Riding

Sailing

Bowling

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

The Corniche Aspire Park

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

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

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

Royal Yachting Association Courses www.ryacourses-qatar.com

Swimming

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

Ice-Skating

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

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RECOMMENDS

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

ick! P ’s r o t i d E

Lanie

Ashlee

LPG Lipomassage

Soap And Glory Eye Kohl & Gloss Sticks I recently turned 30 last month. New year, new decade, new milestone. The morning after my birthday I did what I imagine most women just out of their 20s do – I looked in the mirror, examining my face closely for any new crow’s lines and my hair for any signs of gray. Thankfully none decided to crop up at the flick of a switch (imagine that!), but just in case I came prepared. My roommate brought me some Soap And Glory makeup sets from the UK as a birthday present. You can find S&G products in Boots stores here in Qatar but the makeup sets you can order online. I got the Crazy, Sexy Kohl eyeliner and shadow kit and the Mother Pucker gloss stick set. I love them both. The kohls come in five shades of smoke and shimmer and glide on smoothly for that perfect 60s glam look and the gloss sticks are three shades of high-impact coral, plum red and nudie pink. They look like big crayons and I’m never without at least two in my purse at all times. Retail price: QR 90 for gloss stick set and QR 100 for eye kohl kit. Available at www.soapandglory.com.

Srimani Philips Rotating Air Brush I had a regular hair dryer for a long time, but still found I was struggling to style my hair. Needing something that was easy to handle and quick at the same time, I came across the Philips Air Brush. With removable brushes in two different sizes and a rotating setting, this little gadget has made my morning routine faster and much more convenient. Plus, my hair looks great! Available at most electronic appliance outlets starting from QR 300.

Looking and feeling better about your appearance has never been easier. As I found out, it just takes a bit of will-power and adventurous spirit to try out this new slimming, firming and cellulite-reducing LPG treatment. LPG lipomassage is used to eliminate stubborn fat deposits that have been resistant to exercise and dieting. The machine’s Ergodrive head is equipped with LPG’s patented, independent motorized rollers and the ‘Roll Up’, ‘Roll In’ and ‘Roll Out’ action gently stimulates and conditions skin tissue to break down fat cells. Available at LPG Endermospa across from Hyatt Plaza. For more information call 4414-1600.

Chet Novalash Eyelash Extensions Eyelashes are not only for blinking – they’re also the perfect way to enhance the appearance of your face. Nowadays, anyone can have long, thick lashes through eyelash extensions. Here in Doha, Glow American Salon offers Novalash Eyelashes Extension for only QR 500, and they last up to 3-4 weeks depending on the amount of aftercare you give to maintain them. To book your appointment contact Glow at 4468-9945. They have locations in West Bay and on Salwa Road.

Marlynne L’eau 2 Kenzo A hint of floral scent and decadent notes of sweet fruits are the perfect concoction for your everyday fragrance! The new L’eau 2 Kenzo perfume is my new fave, with a long-lasting freshness that doesn’t wear off even in the hottest weather. It’s a must for every working woman! Available at most beauty outlets for QR 225.

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QH Sensations

It’s A Gentleman’s

World By Jorge Granda Photography by Jessie Palanca

The Ritz-Carlton Doha is one of the oldest and most wellestablished hotels in the city. Its name is synonymous with luxury and its spa indulgence. QH heads over for an afternoon of guy-focussed pampering.

Lay back in comfort at The Spa's relaxation room

he spa at The Ritz-Carlton is spacious and beautifully decorated. Before my treatment starts I’m given a tour of the facility, and it’s exactly what anyone can expect of a hotel such as The Ritz. It’s difficult to sum up how luxurious and clean the spa is – you need to be there to really appreciate it, and I can tell the experience will one-of-a-kind. I’m tired after a long day of work, and am more than ready to head into the treatment room and start my session.

for male skin types. I’m pleased to hear that, since not all spas in Doha offer facials that are exclusive to the male population. If you’re a guy who likes to be pampered I highly recommend you visit the spa at The Ritz – you won’t be disappointed. The prices are a bit high if you compare it to other facilities, especially the stand-alone spas, but it’s absolutely money well-spent. n

For my day at the spa I was offered a chance to try their exclusive ‘Gentleman’s World’ treatment. For 150 minutes I’m immersed in complete relaxation; it’s by far one of the best treatments I’ve had in my experience as a reviewer. My therapist is from the Philippines and is spot-on attentive and accommodating. It’s evident from the start his priority is to offer a professional experience and though the treatment may be simple, it’s amazingly delivered. The session starts with a purifying back exfoliation which lasts for around 30 minutes. The goal is to cleanse and replenish the skin. This is followed by The Ritz-Carlton signature massage – a blissful relaxation technique that lives up to its name. I had to fight with myself not to fall asleep, that’s how good it is and how comfortable my therapist makes me feel. Soft ambient tunes can he heard in the background, adding a nice touch to the overall experience.

Gentleman’s World Package QR 1,000, 150 minutes QR 800, 120 minutes (excluding body polish)

Right after my delightful massage the therapist proceeds to give me a facial treatment. He explains to me that it’s specially-designed

THE SPA AT THE RITZ-CARLTON

Other Treatments For Men: The Ritz-Carlton Gentleman’s Quick Fix Retreat QR 650, 90 minutes QR 580, 75 minutes Combine an express facial treatment with a body exfoliation, 30-minute back, neck and shoulder massage and you have a well-deserved retreat. The Ritz-Carlton Executive Face Treatment QR 650, 90 minutes QR 580, 75 minutes Feed your skin with a nurturing facial designed specifically for men. The skin's natural oil levels are balanced with an exfoliation, mask, relaxing facial massage and moisturizer. To complete your experience, your therapist will advise you on the best home care for your skin type. Contact Info: Call 4484-8000 or visit www.ritzcarlton.com Get in your daily workout at their spacious gym

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Diva Lounge's bright, airy nail salon

The tiled hammam steam room

An Elemental Escape By Ashlee Starratt Photography by Jessie Palanca

With its newest branch now open in The Gate Mall, Diva Lounge is making its mark as a high-end, ladies-only den of pampering. Kick back with us as we spend a day at the spa!

arth, wind and fire are what come to mind at Diva Lounge. The ultra-chic spa has built its mantra around the four elements, with each treatment room designed to represent one of each. The space is bright, airy and comfortable with a team of expertly-trained massage therapists and aestheticians. There’s a vibrant nail salon area, a fitness room offering yoga and Pilates classes, and a vanguard of lush treatment rooms. Throughout the space, the natural environment in all its beauty is reflected in the décor. Today I’m here to undergo their Hammam Damashqi and Ancient Shiatsu treatments. Translating roughly to ‘spreading warmth’, this is one memorable hammam. First of all the room is equipped with ceiling steam vents that funnel moisture directly into the air. When I step inside it’s like being enveloped by a deep, warm fog. At first, I can’t see my therapist Rhea, or even the marble slab in front of me on which I’ll be laying due to the steam. But you quickly adapt and the experience is lush. Rhea, who hails from the Philippines, begins by washing my hair and applying a delicate smoothing mask to my locks. She then pours small bowlfuls of steaming water over me, lathering my arms and legs and back with a traditional Moroccan soap before using an

exfoliating glove to rid my skin of excess impurities. The heat from the steam in the room allows the body’s pores to open and soak in all the moisture, ridding itself of built-up toxins. Lastly she smothers me head to toe in a honey drizzle – the ultimate luxe—and then gives me a seven-minute head massage while it soaks in. Afterwards I feel soft and rejuvenated and my sinuses are quite a bit clearer after the loosening effect of the vapors. After a quick rinse and towel off, I get changed and head to their VIP suite which is decked out in warm, rich tones representing the Earth element, to begin the Ancient Shiatsu massage. It’s one of Rhea’s specialties and she is excellent at finding those points on your body where tension and stress are stored. Very different from Swedish styles of massage, shiatsu is based on acupressure points throughout the body and focuses on channeling the flow of energy through those meridians. Using a combination of intense pressure, tapping and pounding techniques, plus releasing stretches it works out all my kinks in a way that previous treatments have not accomplished so easily. Rhea even stands on my back at one point, asking me to grab her wrists from above while she pulls me up in an arch that feels like that

Shiatsu expert Rhea

first amazing stretch you have in the morning when you just wake up. I’m like jelly by the time it’s over. The treatment finishes with a calming facial and cranial massage and a full-body application of almond lotion. Diva Lounge carries an exclusive line of Thalgo products available for purchase and this cream is utterly lush. With its competitive price points, prime luxury location and excellent quality of treatments offered, it’s worth being a diva for a day. n DIVA LOUNGE SPA Timings: 9:00 a.m. till 10:00 p.m. Prices: QR 400, 75-minute Hammam Damashqi QR 300, 60-minute Ancient Shiatsu massage Contact Info: 4407-7117, The Gate Mall 4481-1488, Al Gharafa 4431-8488, Al Sadd Or visit www.divaspaqatar.com or follow them on Facebook

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QH Sensations Listings RECOMMENDS

SHARQ VILLAGE & SPA Ultimate Indulgence

Daily: Six Senses Spa. Feel ultimately fresh and silky smooth in an instant with a 65-minute Purifying Express Facial for QR 550. An express facial treatment that acknowledges your tight schedule, it aims to bring back the life and energy to your presence instantaneously! The facial includes a deep clean scrub, mask, steam and extraction with a final application of moisturizer. For more information call 4425-6999/6995.

DOHA MARRIOTT Fantasy Tan Spray

Daily: Fantasy Tan is a fake tan application using a spraying technique for a fast and effective application of colour, giving the appearance of a golden, natural and evenlooking tan without the damaging effects of the sun. The desired results are seen within eight hours and the tan lasts for approximately 5 -7 days. Full-body 45-minute spray tan application is QR 280. For more information call 4429-8520.

Pevonia Facial & Massage

Daily: Formulated to deliver accelerated visible results, Pevonia Essential Treatment keeps skin looking porcelain smooth and youthfully radiant. Special offer of a 20% discount when combining a high-performance Pevonia facial with any full-body massage. For more information call 4429-8520.

LPG Slimming Machine

Daily: Adored by stars all over the world and well-known to the general public, the Cellu M6 Keymodule (the lipo-massage machine) is the new alternative to invasive methods. Special introductory offer: one LPG treatment plus 20% discount on personal training consultation with Adamou. Purchase a course of five sessions and get the sixth treatment valued at QR 300 for free, plus one personal training consultation with Adamou valued at QR 150, plus one Total Workout class valued at QR 35 for free, plus a 20% discount on one seaweed wrap and one coffee wrap. For more information on all treatments call 4429-8520.

HILTON DOHA

Eforea Spa. Book a 60-minute body massage and have access to Hilton’s beach, pool and thermal pool for free, for QR 600. Unwind with a one-hour full body massage and relax on the beach of the Hilton for the day, have a dip in the outdoor pool or relax from the stress of your everyday life in the indoor thermal pool at Eforea spa. For more information call 4423-3443.

THE DIPLOMATIC CLUB Reflexology Treatment

Daily: Rebalance the harmony to the body by cleaning congested reflexes and help boost the immune system to assist with recovery from illness, boost circulation, increase energy levels and improve mental and emotional processes. It’s very relaxing and creates a feeling of well-being.

Hot Stone Treatment

Daily: Heated black stones are used to massage the whole body, releasing deep-seated tension, working to relieving stress at the deepest level as well as on the body’s energy channel. A holistic and energizing therapy for body, mind and spirit.

Swedish Treatment

Daily: Effective in ensuring a fast recovery from muscular strain, increases circulation, stimulates skin and soothes the nerves. An excellent treatment for both mental and physical stress. For more information on all treatments call 4484-7450.

THE ST. REGIS DOHA Anti-Oxidant Special

Remède Spa. Introducing Themae products – relax with a 90-minute body treatment including a 45-minute body scrub and 45-minute body massage for QR 800. All Themae products are made with the four teas: black, white, red and green tea, which are highly anti-oxidant. For more information call 4446-0105.

RENAISSANCE DOHA CITY CENTER Dead Sea Delights Daily: Saray Spa. Drawing on the mineral-rich properties of the Dead Sea, this wonderfully serene Doha spa offers traditional Middle Eastern treatments and products. Enjoy an authentic, reviving experience at one of the finest spas. Open from 9:00 a.m. till 9:00 p.m. For more information call 4419-6090.

ne! i l n o s u e e S w.qatarhappening.com ww

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QH Sensations Experience ns ing destinatio ome n e p p a h c ti s s nta Escaping to fa rld does wonders. Here are o around the w

Holi Festival Of Colour March 16: India

Celebrated on the day of the full moon in March, Holi marks the onset of spring and the end of winter. From the streets of Mumbai to the rural villages of Bengal, to the bursting party scene of Goa – the country goes crazy for colour. In the days leading up to the explosive festivities, market stalls are filled with gulal -- bright, vibrant shades of powdered paint in every hue imaginable. Parades, music, traditional food and floral offerings abound as crowds paint their world every colour of the rainbow to welcome the spring. Visit www.holifestival.org and make yourself a blank canvas.

Glasgow International Comedy Festival March 14-April 5: Scotland

Bonnie Scotland brings the mirth at this annual festival dedicated to all things laughable. Make merry with some of the region’s biggest names in stand-up, including Sarah Millican, Rory Bremner, Miranda Hart and Jerry Sandowitz. As if the Scots were lacking in a sense of humour! No one can call this ultra-funny line-up anything less than affable. So pick your pleasure and grab front-row seats in the heckle-zone by visiting www.glasgowcomedyfestival.com.

5 Days Off

March 5-9: The Netherlands

Inspired by Belgium’s infamous 10 Days Off music festival, Amsterdam has pulled out all the stops for its own version of electronic heaven. Featuring some of Europe’s hottest names on the electronic scene as well as the region’s best up-and-comers, this week-long indoor dance event is the top ticket. This year’s line-up includes heavy-hitters Darkside, Waze & Odyssey, Nils Frahm and Marek Hemmann to name a few. Visit www.5daysoff.nl to get your passes and don’t forget to pack some Red Bull!

Comedian Fred MacAulay

Malaysian Formula 1 Grand Prix Waze & Odyssey

Canadian Film Fest

March 20-23: Toronto

How many Canucks does it take to pull off an amazing film fest? As many as possible! This celebration of True North cinema showcases the who’s who of Canadian talent. David Cronenberg, Norman Jewison, Atom Egoyan and Sarah Polley have all had their directorial efforts recognized on the big screen at Can Film and this year’s event promises more of the same calibre of Canadian content. Spread out over Toronto’s sprawling metropolis, screenings will be held across the city, so grab the popcorn and head to www.canfilmfest.ca for the full schedule– you never know who might be in the next seat!

March 28-30: Kuala Lumpur

Fancy a fast-paced spring break? Zip over to KL for their Malaysian leg of the Formula 1 Grand Prix, which will be burning rubber at Sepang International Circuit. Last year Red Bull Racing-Renault’s Sebastian Vettel took home the glory with a whopping 56 laps in a time of 1:38. Runners-up Mark Webber and Lewis Hamilton will also be back to challenge the title again for 2014. Don’t miss a second of action – go to www.formula1.com and get your tix to the races.

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QH Sensations

Aotearoa, The Land Of The Long White Cloud

By Amy Bassett

We explore the wild beauty and rugged heart of New Zealand, nature’s last frontier.

ew Zealand. Aotearoa. ‘The Land of the Long White Cloud’. Home to the proud Maori people. Last stop before Antarctica. An island paradise sitting plum at the bottom of the South Pacific and very nearly at the bottom of the world. A place that everyone should visit yet many don’t due to its isolated perch on the globe. Set aside the fact that NZ is 14,533 kilometres from Qatar and book that 20-hour flight. You may have just planned yourself the trip of a lifetime. If you’re going to make the trek, you’ll want to take the time to explore all that this little island nation has to offer. But let’s say that you’re on the clock. Following is a list of ‘ must-dos’ and ‘don’t-misses’, a ‘NZ Top 5’ for the intrepid traveler.

Sail the Bay of Islands The Bay of Islands could be one of the most beautiful parts of the North Island. This is where the boating, the fishing, the whale-watching, the diving, the swimming-with-dolphins and just plain lazing on pristine beaches feasting on an abundance of fresh seafood in jaw-droppingly beautiful coves is going to get ticked off your bucket-list. Hop to it.

Surf Raglan (Whaingaroa) Raglan, the infamous west coast surf town, where on a clear day you can see all the way across the Tasman Sea to Australia. Just kidding. But if the wind is moving off-shore, the swell is up and you have your surfboard with you, Raglan is your oyster. Take your pick from ‘The Indicators’, Whale Bay, Manu Point and Vortex Bay and surf to your heart’s content.

Visit Whakarewarewa Village in Rotorua City Whakarewarewa is a historic Maori village that still lives and breathes on a geothermal landscape. Take a guided tour for the day to enjoy a Maori music performance and experience how the tangata whenua (locals) have learned to live amongst constantly erupting geysers and bubbling mud pools.

The crystalline waters of Lake Wakatipu border the edge of Queenstown

Question: have you ever heard of a ‘Maori Microwave?’ Pop a chicken in a wooden box placed over a steaming geyser and two hours later… aue! Succulently steamed chicken. This is one of the marvels of the lifestyle of the native village. If you visit Rotorua City, culture capital of the country, make sure you stop off here for a local culture injection.

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Whakarewarewa Thermal Village is one of the most unique natural phenomenon on the North Island

Escape to the Marlborough Sounds At the northernmost tip of the South Island, the sparsely populated Marlborough Sounds are a breathtaking network of drowned valleys. Between the waterways are hills and hills of rolling forestry and an endless number of quiet, secluded bays. It’s guaranteed that there’s a private beach for you if you go searching. This stop is for the campers, trampers, kayakers, bird-watchers, sailors and fishermen. Take your tent, your togs, (that’s Kiwi for bikini), a good friend, a good book and your outdoor-adventure gear. This is the part of your trip where you put the world on hold and enjoy a clear night-sky while the starscapes dazzle overhead. The Marlborough region is also renowned for its sauvignon vino production. Wink wink.

Hit the mountain peaks and then party in Queenstown (Tahuna) ‘Tolkien Tourists’ will inevitably end up in Queenstown on the ‘Trilogy Trail’. (I’m so

sorry about that last sentence.) Queenstown is a ski-resort town in Central Otago, southwest of the South View of Tirahanga in Island, known for its the Marlborough Sounds breathtaking snowy scenery, adventure tourism and party–pants personality. The town of 15,000-ish people is settled around Lake If you manage to hit New Zealand while Wakatipu and is shouldered by four main summer is in swing, keep your ear to the ground mountain ski-fields; ‘The Remarkables’, for music events. The country explodes with Coronet Peak, Cardrona and Treble Cone. outdoor festivals in the warmer weather and the So ski or board to your heart’s content. Or quality of music alone is worth the trip! n you could actually geek out and do a Lord Of The Rings tour. No one will judge you. Just Flights: Expensive, no matter which airline tell them you were paragliding, parasailing, you go with, and long. Take your toothbrush. skydiving, bungee-jumping, white-water rafting, jet-boating or wining and dining in any of the Accommodation: Hotels are not cheap, fine establishments about the town instead. but camping is free! (Queenstown is also popular with the foodies). In a nutshell: NZ is a ‘spendy’ destination The place is astoundingly beautiful and has but it’s worth every cent. Promise. plenty of spunk for those who enjoy a night out.

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Virgin Recommends THE TOP U O Y S G IN R B H Q M THE STAFF PICKS FRO MEGASTORE

NAME: JHUN CENTINO STORE SECTION: MUSIC

TIME AT VIRGIN: 4 1/2 YEARS

Best Part of My Job:“I like working in the music department because I know a lot of artists and different kinds of music, like opera, dance music – you name it!”

NOW THAT’S WHAT I CALL MUSIC 86 No party is complete without at least one appearance from this best-of series. This latest installment is a double-disc compilation of chart-topping hits of the past year for 2013. Flip it on and turn it loud to the sounds of Lady Gaga, One Republic, Arctic Monkeys, Ellie Goulding, Lorde, Miley Cyrus and more. Retail price: QR 120

THE MIX 2014 HED KANDI The dance phenoms are back with this triple-threat feature. Yup, that’s right – three CDs in one package for your clubbing pleasure. Showcasing the hottest artists of house such as Sugar Hill, Vanilla Ace, My Digital Enemy and Noir, put the lights on strobe, turn the bass down low and throw the house party of the year! No DJ necessary. Retail price: QR 110.

PRISM MIDNIGHT MEMORIES KATY PERRY ONE DIRECTION America’s favourite pop sweetheart releases what may be her most mature album to date. Packed with instant chart-toppers such as ‘Roar’ and ‘Dark Horse’, Perry is proving herself on a lyrical level with songs that speak of independence, standing on your own two feet and not letting the world bring you down. Fresh from her split with hubby Russell Brand, this album is her catharsis. Retail price: QR 60.

Tweens and teens take note – this is one CD that has a short shelf-life! The OD boys are back with their third studio album release featuring the hits ‘Story Of My Life’ and ‘Best Song Ever’ among 12 other tracks. This release has a much edgier feel to many of the songs, drawing some rock comparisons that will be a first for OD listeners. Disc comes with tear-out poster and pictures of the band. Retail price: QR 75.

LOVED ME BACK TO LIFE CELINE DION The French-Canadian songbird is back with her eleventh English-language album. You may have already heard the title track played non-stop on QBS radio here in Doha. But what can we say? She’s a diva of song! She’s also has two duets on this release with NeYo and Stevie Wonder. With that much talent on one album how can you go wrong? Retail price: QR 60.

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Spotlight On Movies

TOP

March means spring and spring means ers! action with these do-not-miss blockbust

300: Rise Of An Empire Action | Drama | War Sparta is back (minus Gerard Butler!), as the Greek general Themistocles battles an invading army of Persians under the mortal-turned-god, Xerxes. Stars: Sullivan Stapleton, Rodrigo Santoro, Eva Green QH Fun Fact: The script originally contained a role for King Leonidas but Gerard Butler refused to reprise it, saying it “wasn’t really [his] thing.”

A Haunted House 2 Comedy | Horror Having exorcised the demons of his ex, Malcolm is starting fresh with his new girlfriend and her two children. After moving into their dream home, however, Malcolm is once again plagued by bizarre paranormal events. Stars: Marlon Wayans, Rick Alvarez, Jaime Pressly QH Fun Fact: Still trying to capitalize on the success of their Scary Movie franchise, the Wayans brothers spoof Insidious, The Possession, Sinister and Paranormal Activity in this spin-off.

Muppets Most Wanted Adventure | Comedy | Crime While on a grand world tour, The Muppets find themselves wrapped up in a European jewel-heist caper headed by a Kermit the Frog look-alike and his dastardly sidekick.

Noah Adventure | Drama | Fantasy In this big-budget film of Biblical proportions, Noah suffers visions of an apocalyptic deluge and takes measures to protect his family from the coming flood. Stars: Russell Crowe, Emma Watson, Jennifer Connelly QH Fun Fact: Director Darren Aronofsky has been fascinated by the character of Noah since he was kid, seeing him as “a dark, complicated character who experiences real survivor’s guilt.”

Need For Speed Action | Crime | Drama Fresh from prison, a street racer who was framed by a wealthy business associate joins a cross-country race with revenge in mind. His expartner, learning of the plan, places a massive bounty on his head as the race begins.

Stars: Ricky Gervais, Tom Hiddleston, Tina Fey

Stars: Aaron Paul, Dakota Johnson, Michael Keaton

QH Fun Fact: This film is a who’s who of comedy legends all sharing the screen with Jim Henson’s furry gang of friends. Tina Fey even worked with a dialect coach to perfect her role as Nadya.

QH Fun Fact: Elvis Presley’s granddaughter, Riley Keough originally auditioned for the lead female role, but was turned down.

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Interior Design Forum Design, Bilal Tower, Al Asmakh Area, 11th Floor. Tel.4456 8716 (An Associate of Ahmed Hassan Bilal Group)

Bilal Pearl Suites The Pearl Qatar

Real Estate Ahmed Hassan Bilal Trading & Contracting Co. W.L.L. Bilal Tower, Al Ashmeck Area, 10th Floor. Tel.4442 8877

Restaurant Chowking (An Associate of Ahmed Hassan Bilal Group) Road 4437 1212 hAl Khor 4411 8816 / 4411 8817 hAl Saad St. 4431 4411 hMamoura 4486 6077 hHoliday Villa 4411 5225 / 4411 5335 hSalwa

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QH Sensations

The Dish On Qatar

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By Ashlee Starratt

If you’ve ever wanted to really know what’s on the go in Doha, there’s no better way than to get involved in a group or association. Whether it’s through social media or direct on the ground, becoming an active member of your community only brings you that much closer to it. This month we introduce you to some new (and not so new!) groups, organizations, websites and apps to follow or be part of!

SOCIAL – Exclusive Women’s Club This group’s aim is to bring together likeminded expat ladies on a monthly basis to network and socialize. Women have a chance to enjoy each other’s company, make professional connections, support women’s charities and put in for some fantastic prizes and giveaways to boot! Find them on Facebook, join the group and get in the loop on all their latest upcoming events. Membership is QR 250 for six months.

I Love Qatar. Heavy-hitters on Doha’s social media scene, unless you’re new most everyone knows the team from ILQ. Avid newshounds and prolific event sponsors – if it’s happening in Qatar chances are ILQ is one of the first to have the scoop. Visit them at www.iloveqatar.net or follow them on Twitter @iloveqatar.

Global DJs, Ultra Events, Red Apple Events & Sputnik If there’s a beach party, concert or any type of star-studded musical act coming to Qatar, chances are it’s because one of these hip party promoters is behind it. Recent acts to pass through Doha last year included Taboo from the Black Eyed Peas, Akon, DJ Joran van Pol, DJ Taras, and some pretty stellar retro nights at the Ritz and full-moon parties at Sealine! Follow them all on Facebook or find them on Twitter for the latest concert announcements and ticketing information.

Doha Mums For those of you who have arrived in Doha, children in tow, Doha Mums is a great group to join. You can meet other parents and help introduce your kids to new playmates. Every month they host new-arrivals coffees, play-dates for the little ones and even some well-deserved Mums nights out! Check out their website to get involved: www.dohamums.com or follow their group on Facebook.

Dining In Doha News, reviews and directory information for Qatar’s culinary hotspots. Can’t decide whether to eat out or order in? Dining In Doha is your ticket. Keeping you up-to-date on new restaurant openings, value for money and consumer reviews it’s comprehensive and sure to work up an appetite. See for yourself at www.diningindoha.com.

Qatar Professional Women’s Network This informal networking group for local and expat female professionals could be just the link you need to get a leg up in the job market if you’re new in the country. Make the most of your skills, see what’s out there and meet potential new colleagues – QPWN is open to all nationalities, age groups and those looking for free-lance or part-time work. Visit their website at www.qpwn.org and find out about their next event.

QH Online Last, but not least! Not to toot our own horn too much, but the QH website has recently gone through a complete overhaul. With a new layout, it’s more user-friendly, and chock full with even more events, an on-the-go calendar and archives of our current and past issues. So, there’s no excuse not to make it your number one source for what’s hot and happening each and every day! Check it out at www.qatarhappening.com, find us on Facebook and give us a like, or follow us on Twitter @qatarhappening. We’re always there for you! n

Events Doha This online portal is fairly new, but already booming! An aggregate site of listings for sports, entertainment, arts and culture and much more it’s a quick way to access what’s going on at your fingertips. Check out www.eventsdoha.com.

The Pearl-Qatar App This handy application is free to download on your smart-phone and is your complete guide for anything and everything that’s happening on The Pearl. From new dining outlets to the latest shop openings and community events, it’s a great way to stay connected, whether you’re a resident of the man-made island or not! Download from iTunes.

InterNations Qatar This group is an absolute must for every Doha newcomer! Welcoming expats from all points of the compass, InterNations hosts monthly meetings where new residents can meet others from their home countries and from abroad who are living in Qatar. From answering questions about life in the Gulf, to pointing you in the right direction as you settle in, this group is really a support network as well as a social one! Check them out and become a member at www.internations.org .

On Qatar This nifty little smart-phone app from the Qatar Tourism Authority is a portable calendar of up-to-the-minute events, activities and goings-on, happening daily. Just click on the days of the week and you’ll see everything that’s taking place in the realm of arts and culture and community that’s brought to you by the QTA. You can browse by location as well – making it the perfect tool if you’re out and about in the city. Wherever you happen to be, ‘On Qatar’ goes with you. Download it from iTunes.

QH Online is back -- bigger, bolder and jam-packed with even more events

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Restaurant, Favorite View and tied with Burj Al Hamam restaurant for Favorite Arabic Restaurant. This year, Al Mourjan Restaurant, also won two International Awards of Excellence, one from the International Quality Summit in New York and the other from the European Society for Quality Research from Switzerland. Also on the food and dining front the W Doha won in the newest category of Favorite Southeast Asian Concept for their award-winning Spice Market restaurant which continues to be one of Doha's most popular eateries.

Third Annual Qatar Choice Awards

dazzles guests once again and finally the winners are unveiled. Photography Jessie Palanca

Qatar's hospitality industry was out in full force at the Al Areen Ballroom in the Renaissance Doha City Center Hotel to celebrate the winners of the third Qatar Choice Awards 2013 on Sunday, February 9, 2014. Following a strong two-month online public voting competition, the winners across 26 categories were announced at a glitzy gala dinner reception that included amazing musical performances by British crooner, Atila Huseyin; local soul singer, Keyali Mayaga; concert pianist Sonja Park; and the well-known Doha Jazz Band along with the fabulous Brazilian band Tocandira. This year the QCA introduced new categories such as Favorite Family Ambiance won by The Italian Job, Radisson Blu Hotel and Favorite Fast Food chain won by Wrap it Restaurant. It also saw DJ Roger Choueiry reprise his win as Favorite DJ for Club 7 - La Cigale Hotel, two years in a row. However, the undisputed winner on the big night once again was the Oryx Rotana Hotel, which seized four awards, stunning nominees and voters again. The Oryx Rotanaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s team was able to successfully garner the highest number of public votes across four categories this year: Favorite Nightlife Ambiance-(The Jazz Club); Favorite Brunch (Choices); Favorite General Manager (Kevork Deldelian); and one

QCA.indd 2

of the most coveted awards of the evening , beating out 13 world-class hotels to claim the Favorite Hotel!

The Qatar Choice Awards platform was considered a massive success and the Renaissance Doha City Center Hotel, as the host of the event, was given the opportunity to showcase not only their ability to put on such an extravagant event but to highlight their culinary talents and service to the top tier of the industry. The guests, as well as the hotel and restaurant industry representatives felt truly appreciated. Moona Whitice, Executive Director of Qatar Happening and ABODE magazines, an associated company of Ahmed Hassan Bilal Group, noted that, "The awards are a way of highlighting the marketing and team efforts of each hotel and restaurant to ask for the public to vote for them. Last year we challenged everyone to have another strong showing and I think many of those who won took the challenge seriously. Congratulations

At the start of the voting process in November 2013, it was unknown how the voting would sway, but as the results came in, the public witnessed one organization take four awards again; defining and making it clear that determination and consistency are key to getting people to vote. The Oryx Rotanaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s team succeeded in proving their marketing efforts and teamwork pay off showcasing a reprised remarkable achievement. Following closely behind the Oryx Rotana Hotel, Al Mourjan restaurant, won two equally-coveted awards; Favorite Stand-Alone

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This year’s winners: Favorite DJ: Roger Choueiry La Cigale Favorite Newcomer: Zaffran Café Favorite Delicatessen – Bakery & Chocolate Shop: Maya la Chocolaterie Favorite Stand-Alone Restaurant: Al Mourjan Favorite Southeast Asian Concept: Spice Market – The W Doha Hotel Favorite View: Al Mourjan Favorite Event in 2013: It's Time for Africa at Sealine Beach Resort Favorite Nightlife Ambiance: The JazzClub– Oryx Rotana Favorite Fitness Center: The Ritz-Carlton Spa Favorite Lounge & Pub: Sky View – La Cigale Hotel Favorite Beachfront: Sealine Beach Resort Favorite Arabic Restaurant /A Tie: Burj Al Hamam – The Pearl Qatar and Al Mourjan to everyone who worked so hard to win. The whole exercise is guaranteed to push the restaurants and hotel industry of Qatar forwardand that, in the end, is good for Qatar." George Ayache, General Manager of IFP Qatar and Naycom Qatar mentioned, “By joining hands with Qatar Happening and I Love Qatar we managed for the second year in a row to bring to Qatar’s hospitality scene another beautiful edition of the Qatar Choice Awards. Congratulations to all the winners” With over 25,000 vote cast across 26 categories, featuring 8 nominees in each category, the winners and runner-ups can be sure that it’s in the public’s hands. We want to thank all the people who voted - especially our sponsors who have been supporting us for the third year: Gulf Crafts, Al Isteklal, IAC Qatar, Boecker Public Health, Love Gifts, Etihad Airways, Maya la Chocolaterie, Trinity Talent and Habibs Hair & Beauty."

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Favorite Brunch: Choices – Oryx Rotana Favorite Individual in the Hospitality Industry: Luke Noble – The Four Seasons Doha Favorite GM: Kevork Deldelian – Oryx Rotana Favorite Hotel: Oryx Rotana Favorite Ramadan Tent: Ramadanak – Grand Hyatt Doha Favorite Spa: Energy Heaven Favorite Family Ambiance: The Italian Job – Radisson Blu Hotel, Doha Favorite Themed Restaurant – Creative Concept: Orient Pearl Restaurant Favorite Fast Food Chain: Wrap it Favorite Café: Zaffran Café Favorite Outdoor Venue: Blue – Grand Heritage Hotel Favorite Chef: Chef Zarmig – Mamig Restaurant Favorite Live Music Band: Jazz at Lincoln Center Doha – The St Regis Doha Most Hygienic Restaurant: Al Liwan – Sharq Village & Spa Doha

QCA 2013 is brought to you by the following partners:

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It Happened

A massive thank you from all of the QCA team for making this year's ceremony even bigger and better!

Moona Masri-Whitice, Executive Director of the Art of Business, with her husband Dale Whitice and son Michael

Frances Robinson and Katie Roberts

Host Atila Huseyin serenades guests

QATAR CHOICE AWARDS Renaissance Doha City Center Feb 9, 2014

Photography by Nadir Khamis and Jessie Palanca

The team from The Four Seasons is all smiles

Ipanema's resident band, Tocandira

Keyali and The Travelers rock the QCA stage

The super-talented Doha Jazz

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The team from La Cigale holds up their trophy for Favourite Lounge & Pub

Concert pianist Sonja Park performs

QATAR CHOICE AWARDS Renaissance Doha City Center Feb 9, 2014

The guys and gals from Jazz at Lincoln Center Doha at The St. Regis won the award for Favourite Live Music Band

Al Mourjan Restaurant's Mohamed Al Sadek thanks voters for its trifecta win of Favourite Arabic Restaurant, Favourite View and Favourite Stand-Alone Restaurant -- a tie with Burj Al Hamam

Etihad Airways' Pamela Glazier (second from left) gets ready to give away a free flight to one lucky QCA guest

Chef Zarmig (centre) and her team from Mamig Restaurant won for Favourite Chef at this year's awards

Photography by Nadir Khamis and Jessie Palanca

The Grand Hyatt team take home the award for Favourite Ramadan tent

The team from Sharq Village & Spa win Boecker's Most Hygienic Restaurant for Al Liwan

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It Happened

Employees of Ahmed Hassan Bilal Group celebrate National Sport Day with a cricket tournament at the West Bay Cricket Grounds

Khalid Ahmed Hassan Bilal, AHB Group Director of Public Relations (left) presents employee Mohamed Osman with a trophy at this year's event

The winning team is all smiles

NATIONAL SPORT DAY Feb 11, 2014

Photography by Nadir Khamis and Jessie Palanca

Throngs of people turn out early for the Doha Dash along the Corniche on National Sport Day

Sailboats hit the waves early on the West Bay waters

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Family-fun was the order of the day at Aspire Park

NATIONAL SPORT DAY Feb 11, 2014

Teams compete in a friendly beach volleyball match

Photography by Nadir Khamis and Jessie Palanca

Young, aspiring black-belts kick it high at Katara

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It Happened

SARAH BRIGHTMAN IN CONCERT QNCC, Feb 9, 2014

A regal voice to match a regal presence, Sarah Brightman takes the stage

DISNEY LIVE! MICKEY'S MUSIC FESTIVAL QNCC, Feb 12, 2014

A world of colour, music and magic greeted audiences at the QNCC

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Noha Belhaj (left) and Farah Elalfy (right) welcome guests to the reception at The Grill

CUSTOMER APPRECIATION RECEPTION The Grand Hyatt Jan 28, 2014

TANGO NUEVO CD LAUNCH Kempinski Residences & Suites Feb 3, 2014

Pianist Sonja Park and The Kempinski's Nikolaos Foskolos

L-R: Francesca Moser, Tango Nuevo's Joris Laenen and Sonja Park

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It Happened

A ribbon-cutting ceremony kicks off the festival

MOROCCAN FESTIVAL Sharq Village & Spa Jan 26, 2014

Photography by Reem Saad

TEDX CONFERENCE Education City Jan 18, 2014

Speaker Susan Pak

Speaker Omar Chatriwala

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PSG VS REAL MADRID Khalifa International Stadium Jan 2, 2014

Winning team Real Madrid with star player Cristiano Ronaldo (back row on the right)

Real Madrid Head Coach Carlo Ancelotti (second from left) sits beside football legend Zinedine Zidane (centre)

PSG striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic

Photography by Nadir Khamis

REACH OUT TO ASIA MIA Park Feb 7, 2014

The team from Absolute Fitness

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Phone Directory Al Gassar Resort 4424-4881 Al Mourjan Restaurants 4483-4423 Bert’s Cafe` 4495-3876 Biella 4467-7731 Crowne Plaza The Business Park 4408-7582 Doha Marriott Hotel 4429-8888 Four Seasons 4494-8888 Grand Heritage Doha Hotel 4445 5555 and Spa Grand Hyatt 4448-1234 Holiday Villa 4408-4220 Hilton Doha 4423-3333 InterContinental 4484-4444 InterContinental Doha The City 4015-8888 Johnny Rockets Al Emadi Complex 4455 2792 Hyatt Plaza 4460 4210 Kempinski Residences & Suites 4405-3333 La Cigale 4428 8888 Mövenpick Hotel 4429-1111 Mövenpick Tower & Suites 4496-6115 Nando’s Delivery Hotline 4436-0606 Oryx Rotana 4402-3333 Radisson Blu 4428-1555 Red Velvet 4408 0700 Renaissance Doha City Center 4419-5000 Sharq Village & Spa 4425-6666 Sealine Beach Resort 4476-5299 Sheraton Doha 4485-4444 St. Regis Doha 4446-0000 The Diplomatic Club 4484-7444 The Ritz-Carlton 4484-8000 The Torch Doha 4446-5600 W Doha Hotel & Residences 4453-5021 Wyndham Grand Regency 4434-3333

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

Ahmed Hassan Bilal Group

Health / Beauty

Hotels / Restaurants

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

Hospitals/Emergency

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

4493-4433 4483-0989

Bliss 4453-5555 Bottega Verde 4483-4535 Dados Beauty Salon 4498-0033 Diva Lounge 4431-8488 Diplomatic Spa 4484-7412 Doha Dental 4431-7766 Doha Marriott Spa 4429-8520 Ebn Sina Medical 800-2288 Foot Care Centre Lulu Gharafa 4478-0510 The Center 4436-6275 City Center 4493-0394 Four Seasons Spa 4494-8801 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 Salonon 4408-4083

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

AMBULANCE, POLICE & FIRE DEPARTMENT DOHA CLINIC HOSPITAL

4408-4085 4434-3152 4441-1888 4496-6410

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

4438-4333

EMERGENCY HOTLINE 4435-5999

PEDIATRIC EMERGENCY

4439-2948

AL AHLI HOSPITAL

4489-8000

QATAR FOUNDATION FOR CHILD &

HAMAD GENERAL HOSPITAL

4439-2222

WOMAN PROTECTION HOTLINE 4466-6671 / 72

RUMAILAH HOSPITAL

4439-3333

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

Shopping Alfardan Jewellery 4440-8408 City Center Doha 4483-0582 Hyatt Plaza 4469-4848 Landmark Mall 4487-5222 Lagoona Mall 4433-5555 Maya Paris 4495-3876 4495-3207 Salam 4448-5555 Villaggio 4413-5222 Virgin Megastore Villaggio 4413-5823 Landmark 4418-2245

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

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

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

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

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

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