Qatar Happening - May 2016 by Qatar Happening

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

pg 14 Grime Star Tinie Tempah Heading For D-Town

May 2016 EVERY ISSUE 5 6

Editor-In-Chief's Letter

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

Top Picks

Reggae For The Soul

Spark The Rhythm

Tinie Tempah – Qatar Bound

Seoul Connection

Arts & Culture Listings

The best of our monthly social media,

The QH Grab-Bag

Our monthly prize corner for your chance to win

104 It Happened

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

UB40 founding member Brian Travers looks forward to getting his dancing shoes on in Doha

British Grime star is soon to arrive on Qatari shores, check out who else is coming with him

Fantasy’s Muse

Entertainment Listings

112 Phone Directory

Need-to-know phone numbers

ARTS & CULTURE

QH Speaks

plus the Hit-Or-Miss List

ENTERTAINMENT

Helena Bonham Carter opens up about her career and personal daemons

How a couple from South Korea opened up a cultural center for locals and residents alike right here in Doha Find out everything that’s going on this month

Find out everything that’s going on this month

LIKE US ON FACEBOOK www.facebook.com/qatarhappening

For customer service and subscription questions, such as renewals, billing and account status, email info@qatarhappening.com QH May 2016 - FINAL.indd 3

Shahmim Akram takes a look at Doha’s burgeoning Jazz music scene

CHECK OUT www.qatarhappening.com for the latest information

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TABLE OF CONTENTS COMMUNITY 45

Top Picks

Everything Under The Sun

Rubina Singh explores MIA Park Bazaar and its importance to entrepreneurs

Surviving Exams

Charge It: Teens & Credit Cards

Principal Dr. Steffen Sommer explains the main pitfalls & solutions

Life lessons explored with Jacqueline Bodnar

pg 80

Community Listings

Find out everything that’s going on this month

Check Out The Season Opener of The IAAF Diamond League 2016 FOOD & DINING

SPORTS

QH SENSATIONS

Top Picks

Siam Sensations

From Dust To Diamond

Jewel Of The Corniche

My Armenian Kitchen

Gone With The Wind

100 Viennese Whirl

We head to the Westin Doha Hotel & Spa’s newest Thai restaurant and the results are simply sensational Chef Zarmig serves up another Armenian classic, get your notepads ready!

Food & Dining Listings

Find out everything that’s going on this month

IAAF Diamond comes to town, big stars with big ambitions in this, an Olympic year Antony D. Antoniou gets behind the wheel of the Maserati Ghibli S, check out his thoughts on this automotive beaut

Sports Listings

Find out everything that’s going on this month

QH took a staycation break for some much needed R&R at the Sheraton Grand Doha

John Hunt takes us with him on his travels to central Europe

102 The Dish On Qatar

Ashlee Starratt takes a look at the best way to exit Qatar, when the time comes!

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

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Call Details: Inquiries: Marketing: Fax:

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

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

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From The Desk Of The Editor-In-Chief

On The Cover?

QH goes record-breakin' retro with UB40 live in Doha! Photo Credit: Conceptualized by Lindsey Steenkamp

About Us Dear friends, We have plenty of great stories for you again this month; our team has been foraging away for interesting features and events as we look to bring you the best that Qatar has to offer. From plays and bazaars, to family advice, delicious Doha dining options and major sporting events, we’re just scratching the surface of our May edition. We begin with an Arts & Culture section that’s positively bulging. There’s something for everyone with the Doha Players’ latest theatrical offering of Chitty Chitty Bang Bang. The Sarang Plus Korean cultural centre is yet another rare gem which we’ve unearthed for all you K-wave fans out there, so be sure to read on. Then we delve into Doha’s music scene and check out some innovative jazz creations coming out of the city with the Awakenings Ensemble. From a Community perspective, we tackle the nerve-wracking world of school exams and how to survive it effectively. We also look at a new take on the old souq tradition with a feature on the weekly MIA Park Bazaar. Always keen to bring you the best new food spots in town, we jumped at the chance to review the City Centre Rotana’s new Sicilian Night at their all-day dining eatery Olive Oil. Then, to work off that big meal, flip to our Sports pages where we get your adrenaline pumping as the world’s best athletes make their way to Qatar for the season opener of the IAAF Diamond League. Check out who’s coming in our exclusive sneak peek. In our Sensations section, writer John Hunt explores the beautiful medieval city of Vienna. This historic republic had a powerful influence on the world with its advances in architecture, music, trade and technology. These days however, its charm and beauty are its main draw. Finally, I’d like to take this chance to thank our outgoing Editorial Director Ashlee Starratt and wish her success in all her future endeavours, and to warmly welcome on board our new, incoming Editorial Director Antony D. Antoniou. We hope you keep us close at hand as your go-to guide for the month of May as we continue to bring you the stories, events and features that paint a snapshot of our city. Thank you for making us a part of your lives,

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 Editorial Director: Antony D. Antoniou Editor: Antony D. Antoniou Art Director / Production Manager: Lindsey Steenkamp Lead Designer / Brand Manager: Zahi Srour Photographer: Jessie Palanca Sales & Communications Manager: Jorge Granda Sales & Marketing Manager: Marisela Paesano Assistant Sales & Marketing Manager: Marian Nagy Web Coordinator: Imran Khan Social Media Coordinator: Donnabelle Ribu Administrative & Marketing Coordinator: Mirasol Vinculado Distribution & Accounts: Carmela Yao Distribution: Jaya Prasad Gautam Contributors: Shahmim Akram, Jacqueline Bodnar,

Rowad Ehlela, Dawn Gibson, John Hunt, Jan Janssen – Viva Press, Lynsey Riach, Rubina Singh, Ashlee Starratt, Dr. Steffen Sommer, Hannah Varley

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

Nasser Ahmed Hassan Bilal

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

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SPEAKS

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

The Hit-Or-Miss List

Taking Matters Into Your Own Hands One QH employee was on the end of some appalling behaviour. Having arrived home and about to park in his spot, he became aware that someone else was parked there instead. He left a polite note on the windshield informing them that he was a new tenant and that the parking space was no longer vacant. A few hours later and to his disappointment, the letter had been torn up, the car hadn’t been moved and his windscreen wiper was vandalized. Let’s try and stay mindful and considerate people – no need for the aggro!

s the new Editor of QH, I’ve quickly learned there’s a whole lot more to this wondrous kingdom than I had originally thought. I’m very honoured to ‘take the reins’ and illuminate you on what’s really going on and when – well, that’s the plan at least.

With this in mind, let’s get right to it! The May issue heralds the beginning of summer and we have a pretty jammed-packed line-up of events, insightful features and, of course, our famous reviews. Entertainment-wise, UB40 are coming to town people! So let’s get laid-back and chill to the British reggae/pop that we all know and love. For those of you who haven’t yet had the chance to visit Z Lounge by Zengo at the Kempinski Residences & Suites, then don’t worry – we’ve thoughtfully decided to be your eyes and ears ...until you get round to visiting. Actress extraordinaire Helena Bonham Carter also speaks to QH about her upcoming film role in Alice Through The Looking Glass, as well as her career. For those looking for a bit of an escape, then make sure to take a look at our Spotlight On Movies feature. Also, don’t miss our profile of grime rapper Tinie Tempah; he’s been tearing it up globally and is soon to be landing in D-Town.

Tofu House We can’t get enough of the recently opened Tofu House on Al Jazeera Street. One of the best value-for-money Korean restaurants in Doha, the food is authentic, yummy and the perfect lunch-time snack. With over 30 Korean classics and friendly staff, this has to be on your food radar from now on.

Our QH staycation at the iconic Sheraton Grand Doha is certainly worth a look – especially after the hotel’s long-awaited re-furb. This timeless landmark is the perfect respite from Doha’s frenetic pace. Skip over to Food & Dining this issue and check out our review of the exquisite Sabai Thai restaurant at the brand-new Westin Doha Hotel & Spa. Their Royal Thai cuisine and authentic ambiance left us wanting more. Then in Sports, the upcoming IAAF Diamond League is the big sporty event happening in Doha this month and we bring you all the details on star athletes and more! Then the experts at Evolve – Mind/Body Soul show us how to take care of our physical and emotional health while travelling. Finally, a big thanks has to go to our previous Editorial Director Ashlee Starratt, under whose guidance saw QH flower into a must-have guide with all the latest happenings in Qatar. See you next month D-Towners.

Don’t Tempt Fate, That Text Can Wait

Antony D. Antoniou Editor

Top Of The Twitter-Verse @Eurosport_UK

Cristiano Ronaldo has become the first man in La Liga for 6 consecutive seasons.

to score at least 30 goals

No tiger on the roads this month, but equally as dangerous is texting while driving. Recently, one QH staffer was rear-ended and, although it’s unknown whether the other driver was on his phone, it got us talking about the numerous times we’ve seen people driving and texting at the same time. If in doubt, stop somewhere safe and then text away to your heart’s content. Stay smart and stay safe.

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Stylishly appointed rooms will leave you feeling relaxed and pampered

This month’s QH Grab-Bag is all about indulging to the fullest while living well. That’s why we’re giving away an overnight weekend stay for two at the new City Centre Rotana. The winner and their guest will spend one night in a Classic room and enjoy a delicious breakfast, a personal training session for two at Bodylines Fitness & Wellness Club, followed by a light lunch at Aquarius. Finally, the lucky QH reader will be treated to a sumptuous dinner for two at Olive Oil Restaurant, along with a private cooking session with the chef. To participate head over to the Qatar Happening Facebook page where the winner will be selected on May 12.

Images courtesy of the City Centre Rotana

About The City Centre Rotana

One of Doha’s much-anticipated new five-star hotels, the City Centre Rotana celebrated its official opening early this year, ushering in a new era for business and leisure travelers and setting new standards in Qatar’s hospitality sector. This newest addition to the Rotana portfolio – and the third hotel for the group in Qatar – City Centre Rotana is a tribute to Doha and its pulsating cosmopolitan spirit. Strategically located in the West Bay area, City Centre Rotana is characterized by its connection to the City Center Doha shopping complex. The hotel is also only 30 minutes away from the airport, 15 minutes away from the traditional Souq Waqif and the Museum of Islamic Art.

Bodylines Fitness & Wellness Club

Keep yourself fit at their fully-equipped gymnasium with panoramic views that will keep you inspired. Take a fitness class, plunge into the temperaturecontrolled swimming pool, or relax in the sauna, steam-room and Jacuzzi. For a more personalized

fitness experience, book one-on-one training sessions with their certified fitness instructors who’ll ensure you leave a lot lighter and relaxed.

Olive Oil Restaurant

Olive Oil offers an all-day buffet and à la carte dining, featuring international favourites in a cozy atmosphere. Experience its delicious cuisine in a lively, stylish setting for breakfast, lunch and dinner, with individual cooking stations turning out fresh fare – all to be enjoyed à la carte. The live cooking theatres and modern buffet give culinary experts and guests the chance to sample the finest combinations of flavours and ingredients, while savouring a wide selection of international delicacies.

Aquarius

Treat yourself to light snacks offered on their pool bar, or linger over a cold beverage under an umbrella. The pool bar delights with classic mocktails along with a selection of signature creations. n For more information on the City Centre Rotana call 4445-8888, email citycentre.hotel@rotana.com, or visit www.rotana.com.

Olive Oil offers a taste of the old country

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ENTERTAINMENT

Top Picks

Z LOUNGE BY ZENGO LadieZ by Zengo

Mondays: Enjoy refreshments with a view and some special entertainment! All ladies receive two complimentary beverage vouchers from 9:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4405-3561.

TORO TORO DOHA Carnival Party With DJ Carlos Campos

May 13: Toro Toro is bringing the resident DJ of Barrio Latino Paris, DJ Carlos Campos, to celebrate their anniversary with his world-famous Latin electro beats. Carlos has played at some of the best venues around the world with a huge amount of dedicated followers across the globe. Fans of a fiery atmosphere, amazing beats and fabulous beverages should join in for a night of fun at Toro Toro. From 7:00 p.m. until late. Must be 21 years-old to enter, door policy applies. Dress code is stylish and prior reservations are required. For more information call 4035-5101, or email torotoro@torotorodoha.com.

THE ST. REGIS DOHA Reggae Nights

Thurs & Fri: Oyster Bay. Chill out and enjoy live reggae music by Buggy Nakhente and the Fully Loaded resident band. Every weekend, the resident reggae band gets the crowd grooving to their foot-tapping beats on the beach. From 8:00 p.m. till late. For more information call 4446-0105.

DOHA MARRIOTT Café del Mar W DOHA Pure Crystal – Lovin’ Ibiza

May 12: Crystal. DJ Michael Sanchez’s sets are a fusion of uplifting beats that will transport you to the party island of Ibiza. He’s also a resident DJ of the commercial mega party, SuperMartXé and well as Ibiza Global Radio, the number one underground sound world-wide. Also on the decks is DJ Lorena de Tena, the only woman who blends the musical knowledge of her 15-year career in classical piano with her five-year career in electronic music using a guitar. The Ibiza resident DJ has played in the best clubs (Pacha, Space, Amnesia) across 30 countries worldwide. From 10:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. Strictly reservations and guest-list only. For more information call 4453-5135.

May 27: The Ibiza chill-out concept Café del Mar will be bringing its world tour to the Doha Marriott for the third time. Get together and celebrate the warm weather and relax to sweet Balearic tunes with beautiful views across the Doha skyline as the sun sets. Featuring exclusive tracks from some of the most iconic local and international artists of all time! Tickets are available for purchase on Q-Tickets. For more information call 4429-8444.

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ENTERTAINMENT

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By Antony D. Antoniou Images courtesy of Premium Entertainment

Brian Travers - UB40’s founding member, saxophonist, lyricist and arranger gave QH a few minutes from his busy schedule to talk about the band, Reggae, big gigs and plenty more ahead of their return to Qatar after a 20 year hiatus. See them live at the InterContinental Doha on May 13. QH: UB40 was a household name throughout the 1980s with a music legacy that continues to remain relevant today. How did a group of lads from Birmingham find themselves at the forefront of the reggae/pop movement of the time? BT: We were in the right place at the right time I suppose, a multi racial mix of average teenage boys in the big industrial city of Birmingham in the UK. We were politically charged, and musically very hungry. The UK was changing and starting to recognize its new multi-cultural identity. Our reggae hit a spot which has lasted through the 80's, 90's, Noughties and now into 2016. We tour the world continually and we just returned (last night) from a sold out UK, Australia, New Zealand, Tahiti, France, Holland, Spain tour schedule. QH: What was your ‘Ah-ha!’ moment when you knew you’d made it big? BT: Our first recording 'Food for Thought' was a hit all over the world, our first album 'Signing Off' stayed in the album charts for over a year. We have always been very lucky when it came to hit records, having sold 140 million albums with over 49 top 20 singles. The time you refer to was a very big commercial period for us, a very busy time with world tours lasting 18 months at a time. QH: What does Reggae mean to you and why does it have such a universal appeal? BT: Reggae is a poor people’s music and the world is full of poor people who love to dance. When we formed UB40 as teenagers we simply tried to emulate the music of our neighbourhood. Doesn’t every kid want to play just like their musical heroes? It just so happens – our heroes were Jamaican reggae stars. In the years since, UB40 have been making records, we have recorded four tribute albums to the originators of reggae called the “Labour of Love” series. Dancehall DJ albums, guest vocalist albums, where the likes of John Holt, Ken Boothe, Toots Hibbert to name but a few (originators of the music) appeared. We are most proud of our relationships with other artists, awards are just a marker for the time but friendships can last a lifetime.

QH: Would you say the genre has stayed true to its roots since the glory days of Bob Marley and the Wailers, Steel Pulse and Linton Kwesi Johnson – and if not, what’s changed? BT: Reggae has stayed true to itself with world reggae musicians. I think maybe there is a case for Jamaican DJ/Dancehall Bashment genre having altered direction slightly, having a more conspicuous bling/wealth attitude, but poor kids always want what they haven't got. Reggae is there to soothe their souls, when they need the stuff that money can't buy.  QH: Tell us about the most memorable gig you’ve ever performed at? BT: After 37 years touring the world there are far too many memorable gigs. Truth is: We try to make every gig memorable, which is the idea of being a live band of musicians performing to an audience. To name some: LIVE 8 London, touring South Africa after Mandela’s release and the end of the cultural boycott. It’s still the biggest grossing; highest attended concert tour on record, not even Michael Jackson beat it. UB40 are essentially a live 9 piece band, it’s where we feel most at home. QH: What artists are catching your ear at the moment? BT: At the moment we are writing and recording a new album so I try not to listen to anything new for fear of subconsciously lifting something beautiful from a tune and thinking I've written it. It’s easily done - ask any songwriter. As soon as we finish recording, I’ll have a back log of new records to pour over. I’m a big fan of all genres of music not just reggae, saying that, though, Gappy Ranks is a big hit in my house, all the girls get dancing barefoot in the kitchen when Gappy is on. QH: Will this be your first show in Qatar? Did you know much about the country before signing on to come here? BT: Actually we played in Qatar in the late 1980’s, whilst on a tour in the Emirates; I can’t remember the exact date. Yes of course, we are excited to be coming back to Qatar; it’s always a big visual feast for us to travel to the Arabian Gulf. We were all hoping to visit Qatar during the World Cup, play

Founding member Brian Travers as chilled out as ever

some concerts, and watch a few games. I can feel a conversation being had with our promoter after our next Qatar gig. We look forward to playing you guys some beautiful reggae, some new tunes, lots of old hits, just be sure to wear your dancing shoes. QH: So what’s next for UB40? Do you have more tours slated for the summer, or are you heading back into the studio? BT: Both live gigs and recording studio sessions, it’s incredibly beneficial whilst making records to get out and also play live; it reminds you who you are actually making the records for. Qatar will be a big boost in the musical pants for us mid-recording. Great talking to you, come see UB40 in Qatar. n UB40 LIVE IN CONCERT Location: InterContinental Doha (Beach) Date: Friday, May 13 Timings: • Doors open 7:00 p.m. • Show starts 8:00 p.m. with guest DJ’s. Ticket info: QR 249 QAR (General) and 499 QAR (VIP) at q-tickets.com, platinumlist.net, at the concierge desk at The Intercontinental Doha and all SAQR Entertainment Stores in Doha. Contact info: Visit www.premiumentertainment.qa or visit Iconic Qatar on Facebook for the latest updates on ticket sales

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ENTERTAINMENT

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Tinie Tempah brought to you by Iconic Events

By Antony D. Antoniou Images courtesy of Iconic Events Qatar

The award-winning British Grime star Tinie Tempah will be landing in Doha on May 26 as he makes his debut in Qatar. QH decided to take a closer look at this London starlet who’s gone from strength to strength in recent years.

inie Tempah will also be joined by Belgian DJ Lost Frequencies as they look to close out this season’s outdoor music events. Tempah is a singer, songwriter and producer. His real name is Patrick Chukwuemeka Okogwu and hails from Plumstead, London, UK. The South London rapper will take to the stage at the Intercontinental Doha Hotel’s beach this month. Now a worldwide hit and loved by fellow stars such as Damon Albarn and Snoop Dogg, Tempah launched his debut album Disc-Overy in 2010. It has sold 1.2 million copies globally and won 12 awards, including two Brits and three Mobos. His current single Girls Like, with Swedish singer Zara Larsson, has had over 16 million views on YouTube. The 27-year-old was the first British rapper to sell over 1 million singles in the US after Written In The Stars went to No.12 on the Billboard charts.

DJ line up DJ Felix De Laet, better known as Lost Frequencies, whose debut track Are You With Me was released less than two years ago and rocketed to #1 on the British, Australian, German, Austrian, Irish and Swiss music charts simultaneously. The event will also feature UK DJ Paul Mendez and Qatar locals, DJ Legacy and Pyrokiss. Hosted by Qatar-based Iconic Events, tickets are set to go on sale online from April 23 through Platinum List. Physical tickets will be available from Intercontinental Hotel Doha, Crepaway, SAQR music stores and Game Zone in Gulf Mall from April 24 onwards. Regular tickets cost QR300 or QR350, while VIP tickets are QR500. The event will run from 8pm until 2am. Ticket-holders must be over 21 years old to attend and bring their ID cards or passport. n

DJ Felix De Laet, better known as Lost Frequencies will also be performing

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ENTERTAINMENT

MIX-Masters

By Ashlee Starratt Images courtesy of the Westin Doha Hotel & Spa

With one of the biggest outdoor party spaces in Doha, MIX Lounge and Terrace at the Westin Doha Hotel & Spa heats up the night all week long with music you can move to and an ambiance that’s nothing less than stellar. We caught up with their resident DJ Ñaña who’s got your aural fixation covered with her signature South American sound. QH: Tell us about your stage persona. Who is DJ Ñaña? DN: Well, DJ Ñaña is a Venezuelan girl who’s in love with the music. I describe my shows as a burst of energy, filled with emotions, incredible sounds and Latino flavour! QH: You're from Venezuela, what was the party scene like growing up in Caracas? DN: We’re Latinos and we love to party! The scene [there] has grown a lot recently and I’m so proud! Viva Venezuela! We have excellent DJs and really nice clubs for every kind of taste. The energy that Venezuelans create and transmit is unique. QH: How challenging is it to make a career out of DJ-ing? DN: It’s hard, but when you really want it and it’s your dream, you just have to do what it takes to make this dream into reality. For example [if] you want a residency in the best club in your city, your thoughts and actions should be leading towards that dream and believe that at some point you’ll have it! Also, surround yourself with people to help you to achieve it. QH: Would you say females DJs have more of an uphill battle to break into the industry – or has music quashed patriarchy? DN: Yes, the music industry, like every industry on this patriarchal planet is [chauvinist]. Most people don't view women as skillful or knowledgeable on music, but the game [has] changed recently…we have more girl-power out there like DJs Nervo, Juicy M and my two favorite female DJs Lady Bee and Charlotte Devaney! QH: What's your style on the decks and which tracks are you spinning that are hot right now? DN: The essence of DJ Ñaña is tropical bass (moombahton, trap, tropical house, soca) and good vibes. But when I'm on the decks my style depends on the crowd I have in front [of me] – my priority is to make the people who came to the club happy and to have a good time! The most hot track [right now] is ‘Work’ by my Riri [Rihanna] – big ups to Barbados!

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A big terrace right in the heart of the city

my girl from Manchester [and] they make a wicked combination that you shouldn’t miss. And of course MIX bar has me – a Venezuelan girl that brings the Latino flavour and mixes it up with a Caribbean style! There’s also a Latino night every Wednesday if you like salsa, merengue, bachata, reggaeton – and if you’re from Venezuela or South America I’ll blow you mind with some classic Venezuelan tracks . QH: It's your day off – name three things we'll find you doing. DN: Downloading music, eating, and watching a movie or doing Skype. n MIX LOUNGE AND TERRACE Location: 1st floor, Westin Doha Hotel & Spa Timings: 5:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m., daily

QH: Out of all your travels, where's been the most memorable place you've performed –and how does Doha stack up? DN: Doha has been amazing! [I’ve had] a great opportunity to know about another culture. Thanks to The Westin Doha Hotel & Spa for bringing me to this wonderful place, the team and management make me feel so special at MIX. All the places that I've performed are fantastic; one of the most memorable was Barquisimeto in Venezuela when I had the honour of doing the opening show for Major Lazer alongside 2irie. [I also] got to meet Diplo and share a few words with him, which meant a lot as he was my inspiration to become a DJ and one of my goals is be like him! QH: How has the art of DJ-ing evolved over the last two decades?

DN: I've seen the evolution but I'm not that old – I'm just a baby! [Laughs] I didn't have the experience of carrying around big boxes of 12-inch records…now it's so much easier! You can just carry your music in a little tiny flash-drive or in your laptop and that's it! QH: Do you try and keep up with the trends, or do you prefer to break the mould? DN: I do both of them. I love music no matter [what] genre or artist but what I love more is to see my crowd having fun and dancing like crazy. QH: Why should Qatar's weekend warriors come out to MIX at The Westin? DN: Let's see…it's a great place with a big open terrace, the service is excellent, there’s a wide selection of beverages and a good snack menu. Also, we have an exotic Chilean singer/DJ alongside with

Promotions: • Happy Hour: 5:00 p.m. till 9:00 p.m., daily, QR 30 for selected beverages • Daily Diva: one complimentary beverage for ladies from 5:00 p.m. till 9:00 p.m. • HOT Hotelier’s Night: option of 50% off total bill or Happy Hour all night on Sundays • Magic Monday: show the bill from the previous Monday and a complimentary beverage • Sisters Of Swing: R&B/Hip-Hop Tuesdays. Ladies enjoy two complimentary refreshments • Cuban Night: Every Wednesday enjoy a selection of three beverages with totopos and quesadillas for QR 150 per person. • Nikkei Night: Every Thursday indulge in three Brazilian beverages with Peruvian/Japaneseinspired canapés for QR 180 per person. • Friday Post-Brunch Party: Enjoy 50% off selected refreshments from 4:00 p.m. till 8:00 p.m. • Saturday Bucket Night: Grab a bucket of five selected cold beverages for QR 150. Contact Info: Call 4492-1555, email dining.doha@westin.com, or visit www.mixbardoha.com.

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ENTERTAINMENT Helena Bonham Carter's out for your head as the Red Queen in Alice Through The Looking Glasses, in theatres this May

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By Jan Janssen Interview and selected images courtesy of Viva Press

Best known for her off-beat film roles in ex-husband Tim Burton’s movie menagerie of the surreal, Helena Bonham Carter has carved her niche as a wild-haired anti-heroine. She’s brought her quirky charm to the big screen in roles as diverse as the Harry Potter series, Fight Club, Sweeney Todd and The King’s Speech. Now she’s back in her role as the sociopathic monarch the Red Queen in Alice Through The Looking Glass. QH takes you back to Wonderland.

t may have taken a few decades, but Helena Bonham Carter finally realized that it wasn't worth fretting about every performance in every film. Though she's now separated from her long-time partner, Tim Burton, the gifted actress finds plenty of comfort in looking after their two children and doesn't see the point of torturing herself over work. "I don't really worry about my career anymore," Bonham Carter explains. "I spent a large part of my life wracked with self-doubts and eventually I realized that I shouldn't take things so seriously. My life is much fuller now." The 49-year-old British actress is also pleased to be returning to her role as the Red Queen in Disney Studio's Alice Through The Looking Glass – the longawaited sequel to Burton's 2010 blockbuster, Alice In Wonderland, that earned over $1 billion at the boxoffice. Though Burton is no longer directing (Muppets' director James Bobin took over helming chores), Bonham Carter will be joined by her Alice cast-mates Johnny Depp (The Mad Hatter), Mia Wasikowska (Alice), and Anne Hathaway (The White Queen). Helena Bonham Carter lives in London with her two children, Billy, 12, and Nell, 8. She descends from a distinguished British family – former British Prime Minister H.H. Asquith is her great-great grandfather and she is first cousin to Baroness Jane BonhamCarter – and over the course of her distinguished career she’s twice been nominated for an Oscar – first in 1998 as best actress in Wings Of The Dove and again in 2011 as best supporting actress for The King's Speech. She recently appeared in the historical drama, Suffragette, opposite Carey Mulligan. In person she’s known for her feisty, provocative, and irrepressible temperament as perhaps befits her aristocratic lineage. With respect to her break-up with Tim Burton, Bonham Carter spoke glowingly, albeit sadly of their time together: "I could write a thesis on what's happened," she explained in a recent interview. "Our relationship was always somewhat special, and I think it'll always remain special. We did find each other. And really, the mark of a successful relationship shouldn't be whether you're there forever after. Sometimes you're not meant to be forever together. Sometimes you have to come to terms with the fact that was it. But that was a gift, a massive gift. We gave each other children and a lot more else."

ENTERTAINMENT

and you [wind up] losing your voice. It's very draining to be a complete ogre. She's an appalling woman. She doesn't rule through any fairness or justice, but through harshness, cruelty and terror. For her, decapitation is the solution to every problem – no mercy. That's how a lot of dictators hang on to power, sadly. QH: Were you worried that Tim Burton would not be directing you in Alice Through The Looking Glass as he had done Alice In Wonderland? HBC: No. Tim is still involved as a producer and James Bobin has already done similar kinds of stories and we both had a lot of confidence in him. QH: Anne Hathaway plays the 'good' White Queen, who's actually the Red Queen's sister. Did you and Anne ever wonder what they must have been like as sisters growing up together?

On acting, Bonham Carter has said as she she felt like a fraud starting out never attended theatre school and s had no formal training as an actres

QH: Helena, you've had a highly successful career. But what would you consider to be the greatest challenge you've faced over the course of your life? HBC: Gaining self-confidence...When I was younger I felt distinctly unworthy because I had such an instant success. I was quite exposed, and I never went to drama school. I didn't feel very good –and I'm pretty self-critical now. But I've started to get off my own back, because, you know, acting is just pretending, after all. In our society, there's a lot made of acting, when ultimately the essential thing is you're playing – you're paid a lot of money just to play, and you've got to be responsible and take it seriously, but, at the same time, it's not a Nobel Prize endeavour.

QH: While you were involved with Tim Burton, you endured a lot of gossip over the course of your relationship. Do you ever get annoyed with fame and the kind of attention it brings to your personal life?

HBC: We didn't go into a deep analysis of them... but Anne and I agree that it would be interesting to see a video of the two women as girls, and how they behaved to each other then. We both thought that I would have been a dreadful child, always having tantrums and getting my own way, and that Anne's character would have been the one who sat quietly in a corner, trying to keep out of her sister's way, and enduring all sorts of things – just well-behaved, not goody-goody. Red would always have been pinching and goading and provoking…the sort of child that everyone wants to avoid. QH: What were you like as a child?

HBC: No, because I try not to pay any serious amount of attention to those stories. I try to take the attitude of ‘Never explain, never complain, and try to speak as little as possible in public.’ That makes the most sense to me and when completely ridiculous things are printed that's proof in some way that the public knows very little about us. I love that! QH: How would you describe the Red Queen? HBC: She's both demonic and despotic, and I loved playing her. But shouting a lot does wear you out,

HBC: I was forced to grow up very fast because of my Dad's illness [Editor’s Note: He was left paralyzed after a brain operation that went badly]. I always felt that I had an obligation to behave very responsibly and try to help my Mum and make Dad's life better somehow. So, on the one hand I was very old for my age and also very young and naive in another. I lived with my parents until I was 30 even though I had been working as an actress since I was 13.

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Bonham Carter with co-stars Jonny Depp and Anne Hathaway Jonny Depp and Mia Wasikowska star as the Mad Hatter and Alice

HBC: I'm glad, but you still wonder every time you've finished working on a film that you're never going to work again. That's a typical actor's kind of anxiety. But I feel I've evolved so much personally and that I'm much better at my job now than ever because I feel I know what I'm doing. QH: Do you enjoy being seen as an iconoclast and as a woman who speaks her mind?

r says she Though separated, Bonham Carte n close and ex-husband Tim Burton remai

QH: What led you into acting? HBC: I was an intensely shy child and teenager, and, being someone else for a while looked to me like a wonderful way of escaping. Going to a world where it's under your control.

HBC: Sometimes I like taking a role home. It's fun. I love to pretend as if I were someone else. For me it feels like I was on vacation. I remember when I had finished playing Elizabeth Taylor I kept speaking with her American accent and behaving a little bit like her. [Laughs] I wouldn't do that with the Red Queen, at least I hope not!

Today, that's gone, and I am a fundamentally happy person and much of that is because of [the time I spent with Tim] and our children. I wasn't back then. Today I think that I've grown into myself, and into my body. I’m an incredibly late developer, in fact. QH: You've played a wide variety of characters and some very extreme ones. Have any of your roles crossed over into your private life?

QH: What do you think would surprise people most about you?

QH: Is pretending and escaping the best part of acting for you?

HBC: That I love to cook! When I was younger I was always on different diets and worrying about how I looked and all that. After a time you get tired of trying to adapt to a certain image and now I prefer having curves.

HBC: Oh, I also enjoy doing all the research into my characters when you're playing an historical or real figure. I will bring stacks of books home and write pages and pages of notes to myself. That's the best part of the job – learning everything about the lives of some very important and interesting people. I love that about my job.

I like to eat and I find it sad that women are often made to conform to a certain body image that society dictates to us. You're not supposed to eat if you want your body to correspond to the ideal concept of what a woman should look like. So food is associated with guilt even though in reality it’s a great pleasure.

QH: Are you glad that more and more women your age are now enjoying very fruitful careers as opposed to Hollywood's traditional age bias against women?

It took me time before I felt more confident about being a woman and not caring so much about what others thought about my appearance. Now I don't have to worry about being the corset sex-symbol! n

QH: Did you ever go to acting school? HBC: No way. And when I was in films with people who had had so much experience, I felt like a total fraud. I was waiting until I was exposed – I felt that I was bluffing it.

HBC: I come from a family where you were encouraged to express yourself and be independentminded. Girls and boys were treated equally and I never saw myself as someone who had any limitations on myself even though it took me time to be able to realize that kind of freedom.

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ENTERTAINMENT

Some of the best views of downtown Doha

Party Happenings By Antony D. Antoniou Images courtesy of Kempinski Residences & Suites, Selected photography by Jessie Palanca

Z Lounge by Zengo offers some of the best views of downtown Doha as well as innovative and delicious cuisine. Located on the ear-popping 61st floor of the Kempinski Residences & Suites, QH takes a lengthy elevator ride into the stratosphere to check out this modern, sleek playground.

pening its doors for the first time last November, Z Lounge seems to be doing some brisk business. If you’re lucky enough to time your visit just right, you’ll witness the mesmerizing Arabian sun slowly setting over the horizon – simply spectacular. Once it’s nice and dark, the city’s skyscrapers take centre-stage as they simmer in the foreground. It feels like I’ve landed in the future and one, I may add, that I’d be happy to stay in. The restaurant and lounge provide the perfect combination for those wanting to have unforgettable snacks and refreshments in an über cool setting. The establishment features a stylish blend of LatinAsian food styles, courtesy of renowned Chef and owner Richard Sandoval.

Sandoval, who hails from Mexico City, oversees a leading international restaurant group with over 40 unique concepts spanning the U.S., Middle East, Asia and Europe. Known for his unique eateries and lounges, the Mexican chef hasn’t failed to impress with his latest concept right here in Doha. The interior is modern and minimalist with large red chairs that seat two and conveniently offer a semblance of privacy. The ambiance is a mixture of excitement and spectacle due to the stunning vistas. The space could easily be confused with a trendy Manhattan lounge and I think that’s the idea. We’re greeted by our waitress, Milien, whose knowledge of the refreshments is impressive and informative. Soon the place fills up and the food arrives. We’re treated to all kinds of delectable treats such as the chicken empanadas which, I’m assured by my Venezuelan friend, are most authentic. Next we dip into the tuna tacos, which are an instant hit. More food arrives, this time sushi and then some crispy calamari – all of which are yummy and go well with our beverages. Already, this place is a hit with a young and sophisticated crowd; I would highly recommend Z Lounge with its playful beverages and creative food experiences. This wondrous, achingly cool setting is one for the night-lovers. For those looking to impress or simply enjoy a unique lounge experience high in the clouds, take your friends, colleagues and anyone else here and you won’t go wrong – I promise. n

Z LOUNGE BY ZENGO Location: 61st floor, Kempinski Residences & Suites Timings: • Monday, 5:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. • Tues & Wed, 5:00 p.m. till 1:00 a.m. • Thursday, 7:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. • Friday, 5:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. • Sat & Sun, closed Average Meal Price: QR 50-QR 75 Dress Code: Smart-casual Licensed: Yes Smoking: Yes Happy Hour: 5:00 p.m. till 9:00 p.m., Mon, Tues, Wed and Fri LadieZ by Zengo: every Monday ladies receive two complimentary refreshment vouchers from 9:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. Contact Info: Call 4405-3561, or email zlounge@zengodoha.com

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VIRGIN RECOMMENDS

QH BRINGS YOU THE TOP STAFF PICKS FROM THE MEGASTORE

NAME: RAM LAMSAL STORE SECTION: RED BOX DEPARTMENT TIME AT VIRGIN: 2 YEARS

Best Part of My Job:“The atmosphere. I believe that’s the most important thing – doing something that you love in a place that you love. Virgin is also where we get all the new releases, so it’s the place to be!”

ONEPIECE VIRGIN ATLANTIC ONESIES These limited edition onesies from acclaimed Norwegian brand OnePiece will carry you off to dreamland in style. With a myriad of über-cool designs for all tastes, these unisex jumpsuits are available exclusively at Virgin. Let the leisure-wear revolution begin! Retail price: QR 1,065.

YANKEE CANDLES The hottest-selling item (no pun intended!), Yankee Candles are the latest sensation around Virgin Megastore. With an infinite variety of intangible scents (Turquoise Sky? Sun-Kissed Leaves!), these multi-coloured candles are the missing piece to those corners of your home with a little space to fill. Price retail: QR 99.

THE MIGHTY MUG Known as the mug that won’t fall over, The Mighty Mug is every clumsy coffee- lover’s dream! With suction capabilities and intelligent design features, the mug is made with the sole purpose of stability and the promise of a spill-free drinking experience. Now, go impress your office-mates. Retail price: QR 79-QR 89.

DISC’ O’ CLOCKS With vinyl records making a comeback, these iterations were only a matter of time – literally. Italian-made, these re-purposed record clocks are inspired by the ever-changing worlds of fashion, music, art and iconography, and their craftsmanship is sure to light up any room. Retail price: QR 270-QR 350.

FLEXDEX SKATEBOARDS What do you get when you take the classic design of a skateboard and revamp it to a whole new level? Modern by day, futuristic by night, Flexdex boards’ lighting capabilities are only one top-gear feature among many. With superior quality parts, clear polycarbonate manufacturing and added length for control, these are no ordinary wheels! Retail price: QR 1,099.

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Spotlight On Movies From superheroes and spies, to fairy-tales and feathers, May’s a non-stop cinema curtain call!

CAPTAIN AMERICA: CIVIL WAR

ALICE THROUGH THE LOOKING GLASS

X-MEN: APOCALYPSE

Action, Sci-Fi, Thriller After their last battle the Avengers become divided as Captain America seeks to keep them free from political influence while defending the human race. This causes a rift between him and Iron Man who (surprisingly) wants political accountability for their actions. Will the Avengers overcome, or will civil war fracture them forever?

Adventure, Family, Fantasy When Wonderland is faced with a new enemy and our eccentric Mad Hatter (Johnny Depp) is in danger, Alice must enter the looking glass and step back in time, working with old friends to save him.

Action, Adventure, Fantasy, Sci-Fi Awakening after thousands of years, Apocalypse, the world’s first mutant, threatens to destroy mankind and create a new world order. It’s up to Professor X and his team of young mutants to stop their greatest enemy yet, before it’s too late.

Stars: Johnny Depp, Anne Hathaway, Alan Rickman

Stars: Jennifer Lawrence, Hugh Jackman, Oscar Isaac

QH Fun Fact: Forever iconicized as Severus Snape in the Harry Potter film series, Alice Through The Looking Glass was Alan Rickman’s last film before he passed away in January 2016. He lends his voice to the mushroom-loving Blue Caterpillar.

QH Fun Fact: This will be Hugh Jackman’s eighth portrayal of Wolverine in the X-Men franchise, marking a new record for the most times a comic-book character has been portrayed by the same actor on-screen – talk about commitment!

Stars: Chris Evans, Robert Downey Jr., Scarlett Johansson QH Fun Fact: Actor Daniel Brühl (who plays super-villain Baron Zemo), recently joked about the movie’s epic scope, saying its budget was so huge 20 films could have been made!

SNOWDEN

Biography, Drama, Thriller Based on the tell-all book by Luke Harding, The Snowden Files: The Inside Story of the World’s Most Wanted Man, the film tells the compelling true story of CIA employee Edward Snowden who leaked thousands of classified documents to the press.

Animation, Action, Comedy It’s the app that revolutionized all others, but ever wondered why those birds are so angry? When a peaceful island of flightless birds is visited by a strange cohort of green baddies, it’s up to Red, Chuck and Bomb to figure out what they’re up to.

Stars: Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Shailene Woodley, Nicolas Cage

Stars: Jason Sudeikis, Peter Dinklage, Bill Hader

QH Fun Fact: Shailene Woodley was offered the lead female role of Lindsay Mills, Snowden’s longterm partner, on her 23rd birthday. Not a bad present we think!

QH Fun Fact: Since 2009, Angry Birds has been downloaded over one billion times worldwide, making the smartphone game the first cultural phenomenon of its kind!

ANGRY BIRDS

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ENTERTAINMENT

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

QH RECOMMENDS

W DOHA Pure Crystal

May 5: Crystal Lounge and Club. Crystal welcomes back International DJs and producers the House South Brothers! The Argentinean duo will spin all the latest house and EDM hits with their special twist. Opening set by Resident DJ Tobias Sabido. Strictly reservation and guest-list only. From 10:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. For more information call 4453-5135.

REGULAR PROMOTIONS CITY CENTRE ROTANA The Ultimate Ladies Night THE GRAND HYATT Liquid Brunch

Fridays: Dunes. Spend Fridays the right way and join Doha’s one-and-only after-brunch party from 4:00 p.m. till 8:00 p.m. featuring resident DJ Santiago Vittorelli. A regular refreshments package is priced at QR 200 (which includes unlimited selected refreshments), the house beverages package is QR 300 and a premium package is QR 499 (which includes unlimited select refreshments). For more information call 4448-1280, or 7021-8094.

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

SPECIAL PROMOTIONS DOHA MARRIOTT New Pearl Lounge!

Daily: The Pearl Lounge. ‘Pearls don’t lie on the sea-shore – if you want one, you must dive for it’ – Chinese proverb. The trendy and popular Pearl Lounge has had a re-vamp, so join them for the nightclub’s re-opening and unwind in chic and elegant surroundings. Happy hour daily from 5:00 p.m. till 8:00 p.m. and enjoy selected beverages for only QR 27. For more information call 4429-8444.

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA THE CITY Hed Kandi May 5: Strata. Hed Kandi is back by popular demand! Warm up with DJ Diego Rodriguez and DJ Chloe straight from Ibiza and Dax on Sax. QR 100 inclusive of one house beverage; free entrance before 11:00 p.m. From 9:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. For more information call 4015-8888, or email doharestaurants@ihg.com.

LA CIGALE Brand-New Sky View

Daily: Sky View. Pique your curiosity and catch a glimpse of the striking, newly-renovated Sky View. Guess what? La Cigale has introduced a new double-floor indoor section, where you can party the night away all year-long. Enjoy the most vibrant mixes while savouring light snacks, house beverages and sushi. No entrance fee and no minimum charges during week-days. Rules and regulations apply. For more information call 4428-8204/888.

SHERATON GRAND DOHA The Backyard

Fridays: Stretch out on the grass at the Sheraton Grand Doha while listening to the band play your favourite tunes with a warm, unplugged acoustic setup. The night is lit up with fairy lights and candles and you're surrounded by amazing food, enormous company, and a long set of great music. QR 100 for men and QR 65 for ladies, including one standard beverage. From 7:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. For more information call 4485-3000.

THE FOUR SEASONS ¡Hola! Peru

Daily: Cozy up to a table at Library & Cigar Lounge as they feature traditional Peruvian bites such as ceviche, anticuchos and tiraditos with special beverages for the whole month of May. Starting from QR 55. From 5:00 p.m. till 12:00 midnight. For more information call 4494-8600, or email dining.doh@fourseasons.com.

Wednesday: Boston’s. The ultimate Ladies Night means free selected beverages for ladies from 8:00 p.m. until 12:00 midnight. Boston’s now opena its ladies night doors every Wednesday. For more information call 4445-8888, or email fb.citycentre@rotana.com.

DOHA MARRIOTT Happy Hour

Daily: The View Poolside Restaurant. The View is a beautifully-designed terrace-style space located directly on the pool deck with excellent views over the Doha cityscape. Enjoy your weekend brunch under the sun at the only outdoor pool terrace in Doha. Stop by with a friend and join the daily happy hour from 5:00 p.m. till 7:00 p.m. and sample the fantastic atmosphere The View has to offer. For more information call 4429-8499.

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA Taco Tuesday

Tuesdays: Paloma. Tuesday night is Taco Night. Chef Salvador brings you authentic flavours of Mexican tacos. Choose five different varieties from the taco menu and top them up with a signature Mexican refreshment for QR 128. For more information call 4484-4444.

Girls Night Out

Wednesdays: Paloma. Girls Night out is back! Every Wednesday bring your girlfriends along and enjoy our complimentary sips for ladies every Wednesday. QR 80 entrance for men, including one house beverage. Happy hour from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. For more information call 4484-4444.

Thursday Vibes

Thursdays: Lava. With the resident DJ providing an awesome set, Lava will become the only place you can possibly think of going to and, most importantly, leave with the excitement of coming back the following week! For more information call 4484-4444.

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ENTERTAINMENT INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA THE CITY Pink Wednesdays

Wednesdays: Strata. Welcome to Doha’s only Pink Wednesday – a girls’ night out where the ladies receive two welcome refreshments upon arrival and can groove away to the tunes of R&B, soul and funk, along with a fantastic chance to win a high-end designer items and much more. For more information call 4015-8888, or email doharestaurants@ihg.com.

Listings Bounce Arenas

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

MARSA MALAZ KEMPINSKI HH Bohemia

NOZOMI DOHA Happy Hour

Tuesdays: Lounge only. Refreshments starting from QR 30 and bar snacks from QR 25. From 4:00 p.m. till 10:00 p.m. For more information call 4035-5089, or email info@nozomidoha.com

ORYX ROTANA Scarlett Tuesdays

Sun-Thurs: Hive. De-stress with an after-work visit and make the most of the buy-one-get-one-free offer on selected house refreshments between 5:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. For more information call 4015-8888, or email doharestaurants@ihg.com.

Daily: Bohemia. Head to Bohemia for their afterwork happy hour promotion featuring a selection of delicious special refreshments at QR 35 from 5:00 p.m. till 8:00 p.m. For more information call 4035-5011, email restaurants.marsamalaz@kempinski.com, or visit www.kempinski.com/marsamalaz.

Tuesdays: Jazz Club. Calling all ladies! Be part of the ladies’ night re-launch at the Jazz Club and enjoy four complimentary refreshments, tantalizing snacks and get a chance to win at their weekly raffle from 5:00 p.m. till midnight. After that, enjoy a 50% discount on selected beverages and enjoy the night with the jazz band. For more information call 4402-3333.

Buckets And More

Molecular Mondays

Hoteliers’ Night

After Work Evenings

Fri & Sat: Hive. Join in to watch some rugby games on the big screen and quench your thirst with a bucket of six for the price of four for QR 175. For more information call 4015-8888, or email doharestaurants@ihg.com.

KEMPINSKI RESIDENCES & SUITES Happy Hour Daily: The Lounge. The Lounge reveals their refreshed classic Happy Hour and extends it from 5:00 p.m. till 7:00 p.m.! Enjoy your favourite selected beverages and nibbles for only QR 30. For more information call 4405-3325, email restaurants.doha@kempinski.com, or visit www.kempinski.com/doha.

Grapes & Formaggio With Kéyali

Sundays: The Lounge. Enjoy an exceptional selection of grapes, paired with the best selection of cheeses from around the world. Prices start at QR 150 per platter, plus grapes. Enjoy smooth live entertainment by Kéyali Mayaga and her band from 9:30 p.m. till11:30 p.m. Complimentary entrance. For more information call 4405-3325, email restaurants.doha@kempinski.com, or visit www.kempinski.com/doha.

Upbeat Mondays

Mondays: The Lounge. Enjoy refreshing Happy Hour beverages from 5:00 p.m. till 7:00 p.m. while tuning into the upbeat mixes from our DJ every Monday in The Lounge. Complimentary entrance. From 9:00 p.m. till 1:00 a.m. For more information call 4405-3325, email restaurants.doha@kempinski.com, or visit www.kempinski.com/doha.

MARRIOTT MARQUIS CITY CENTER DOHA After-Brunch Sessions

Mondays: Bohemia. Indulge in the perfected molecular mixology at Bohemia and enjoy a flight of three flavoured refreshments for QR 90 per person. From 8:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. For more information call 4035-5011, email restaurants.marsamalaz@kempinski.com, or visit www.kempinski.com/marsamalaz.

‘Hora Feliz’ Happy Hour

Daily: El Faro. Hola amigos! Unwind in the authentically Spanish ambiance of El Faro and get the chance to enjoy the buy-one-get-one offer on selected signature beverages, delicious tapas and refreshments. Plus, they’ve extended the Hora Feliz on Fridays and Saturdays for more after-brunch fun! Sunday to Thursday from 5:00 p.m. till 8:00 p.m., and Friday to Saturday from 3:30 p.m. till 8:00 p.m. For more information call 4035-5011, email restaurants.marsamalaz@kempinski.com, or visit www.kempinski.com/marsamalaz.

MÖVENPICK HOTEL DOHA Be Entertained At Jazz Up

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

NOIR LOUNGE & CLUB Ladies At Noir

Tuesdays: Meliá Doha. Ladies night, enjoy three free refreshments from a select menu. Get your urban groove on with great R&B and hip-hop tunes. From 9:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. For more information call 5596-1414, or email info@noirdoha.com.

Fridays: Glo. Because brunch without an after-brunch session is just a lunch! Come to Glo for an after-brunch session where guest DJs spin the latest grooves. Free entry. From 4:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. For more information call 4419-6100, or visit www.marriottmarquisdohadining.com.

Happy Hour

Weekend Vibes

The Weekend At Noir

Thursdays: Glo. Glo brings you the finest DJs spinning the latest in house and tech music to start your weekend! Free entry. From 5:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. For more information call 4419-6100, or visit www.marriottmarquisdohadining.com.

Daily: Meliá Doha. After-work beverages, anyone? Choose anything off the menu and Noir will pay half your bill! Come and enjoy the offer from 5:00 p.m. till 9:00 p.m. For more information call 5596-1414, or email info@noirdoha.com.

Thursdays: Meliá Doha. Dance to some R&B and hip-hop, while all ladies receive a complimentary welcome refreshment. From 9:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. For more information call 5596-1414, or email info@noirdoha.com.

Saturdays: Hoteliers receive a special offer of a 50% discount on both food and beverages. From 9:00 p.m. till 1:00 a.m. For more information call 4402-3333.

N2 Jazz Club Band

Sun-Fri: Jazz Club. Feel the super jazzy atmosphere with their new N2 Band which starts playing from 9:00 p.m. onwards from Sunday to Wednesday, and from 9:00 p.m. till 1:30 a.m. on Thursday and Friday. For more information call 4402-3333.

SHANGRI-LA HOTEL DOHA Happy Hour

Weekly: The Den. Experience the longest happy hour in town at Doha’s first non-smoking lounge with beverages from QR 30 from 5:00 p.m. till 9:00 p.m. The Den is open from 5:00 p.m. till 1:00 a.m. on week-days, and 5:00 p.m. to 2:00 a.m. on weekends. For more information call 4429-5295.

SHERATON GRAND DOHA Midnight Happy Hour

Sun-Wed: Irish Harp. From 11:00 p.m. till midnight, enjoy selected refreshments at a special price in Doha’s only Irish pub. For more information call 4485-3000.

Salsa Night

Wednesdays: Irish Harp. Hit the floor for some salsa dancing and music all night long. Prepare your dancing shoes and join the throngs. QR 50 entry fee for men, free entry for ladies. For more information call 4485-3000.

Kizomba & Bachata nights

Mondays: Latino Steakhouse. The only kizomba and bachata night in town. Their resident DJ will be play a sizzling mix of the greatest and latest bachata and kizomba tunes – enjoy it with happy hour beverages all night long. From 8:00 p.m. till 11:30 p.m. For more information call 4485-3000.

THE GRAND HYATT Happy Hour

Daily: Dunes’ happy hour has been extended to three hours, because two hours are never enough! Make sure you visit Dunes every day except Fridays, between 5:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m. for the best beverages in the city. For more information call 4448-1280, or 7021-8094.

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THE ST. REGIS DOHA Sway Ladies Night

Wednesdays: The Rooftop. Luscious fruit skewers will be served during this ladies’ night promotion till 11:00 p.m. A photo-booth will also be installed where guests can get the chance to have their photo in a branded photo-frame. Premium booth bookings are QR 4,000 and premium table bookings are QR 2,000. Their in-house photographer will be available from 9:00 p.m. till late. For more information call 4446-0105, or email diningreservations@stregis.com.

The Dinner Show

Wed-Sat: Jazz at Lincoln Center Doha. JALC Doha is changing the tune with the launch of The Dinner Show, a two-hour performance of world-class jazz musicians. Special offer for couples at QR 695 for a three-course set menu including a bottle of house grapes. From 8:00 p.m. till late. For more information call 4446-0105, or email diningreservations@stregis.com.

THE FOUR SEASONS Gentlemen’s Night

Tuesdays: Library & Cigar Lounge. If there’s a Ladies Night, there should be Gentlemen’s Night too! Every Tuesday the happy hour offering is extended throughout the evening only for the gents, with a selection of enticing beverages. For more information call 4494-8600, or email dining.doh@fourseasons.com.

THE WESTIN DOHA HOTEL & SPA MIX Lounge And Terrace

Daily: MIX Lounge and Terrace is a lively, soulful affair that adds to Doha's eclectic social scene. Their playful approach belies an uncompromising commitment to quality. Watch their mixologists work their magic while you find a corner and fill it with friends – this is where Doha comes to play. For more information call 4492-1555, email dining.doha@westin.com, or visit www.westindoha.com.

Friday Post-Brunch Party

Fridays: MIX Lounge And Terrace. After savouring a succulent brunch, pass by the newly-opened MIX Lounge And Terrace and enjoy 50% off on selected refreshments from the beverage menu from 4:00 p.m. till 8:00 p.m. For more information call 4492-1555, email dining.doha@westin.com, or visit www.westindoha.com.

W DOHA Arabesque Night

Saturdays: Crystal Lounge and Club. Crystal proudly presents Arabesque Night, Layali 1001 Nights with stars Fadi & Maestro Jamil performing all the latest Arabic songs live! DJ Imran will spin all the latest top hits of RnB, hip-hop and commercial tunes. From 10:00 pm till 2:00 p.m. For more information call 4429-8499.

Z LOUNGE BY ZENGO Happy Hour

Mon-Fri: Enjoy your after-work refreshments with a view. Join for Happy Hour from 5:00 p.m. till 9:00 p.m. on the highest floor of the highest building in town. For more information call 4405-3561.

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ENTERTAINMENT

Directory

Noir Lounge & Club Meliá Doha

The Den Shangri-La Hotel Doha

Belgian Café InterContinental Doha

Let us help you make the most of your weekend with our comprehensive directory of the hottest nightlife spots throughout the city. So grab your friends and head out for a night on the town! Admiral’s Club The Ritz-Carlton

4448-4800

Jazz At Lincoln Center Doha The St. Regis Doha

4446-0000

Pearl Lounge Doha Marriott

4429-8888

Beach Bar Lounge The Four Seasons

4494-8888

The Jazz Club Oryx Rotana

4402-3333

Qube Radisson Blu

4428-1428

Belgian Café InterContinental Doha

4484-4444

Jazz Up Mövenpick Hotel Doha

4429-1111

Rocca The Grand Hyatt

4448-1234

Bohemia Marsa Malaz Kempinski

4035-5555

Lava Lounge InterContinental Doha

4484-4444

Shanghai Club Shangri-La Hotel Doha

4429-5000

Boston's City Center Rotana

4445-8888

Level 23 The Ritz-Carlton

4448-4800

Shehrazad Radisson Blu

4428-1428

Bubbles On Two Radisson Blu

4428-1428

Sky View La Cigale

4428-8888

Champions Marriott Marquis City Center Doha Cigar Lounge Sharq Village & Spa Crystal Lounge W Doha

Dunes The Grand Hyatt Glo Marriott Marquis City Center Doha Habanos The Ritz-Carlton

Liquidity Crowne Plaza Doha - The Business Park

4419-6100

4425-6666

Manhattan Radisson Blu

4453-5135

4448-1234

4484-8000

4408-7777

Madison Piano Bar La Cigale

4419-6100

Misturado Crowne Plaza Doha - The Business Park

4015-8888

The Den Shangri-La Hotel Doha

4429-5000

The Irish Harp Sheraton Grand Doha

4485-4444

The Library Radisson Blu

4428-1428

4428-8888

4428-1428

4408-7777

MIX Bar, Lounge and Terrace Westin Doha Hotel & Spa

Strata Lounge InterContinental Doha The City

4492-1555

The Library Bar & Cigar Lounge The Four Seasons

4494-8888

Noir Lounge & Club Meliá Doha

5596-1414

The Lounge Kempinski Residences & Suites

4405-3325

Orion Radisson Blu

4428-1428

Vintage Lounge The St. Regis Doha

4446-0105

4453-5353

Hive InterContinental Doha The City

4015-8888

Oyster Bay The St. Regis Doha

4446-0105

Wahm W Doha

Illusion Marsa Malaz Kempinski

4035-5757

Paloma InterContinental Doha

4484-4444

Z Lounge by Zengo Kempinski Residences & Suites

4405-3333

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ARTS & CULTURE

Top Picks

QATAR PHILHARMONIC ORCHESTRA Rimsky-Korsakov’s Capriccio Espagnol

QATAR MUSEUMS Domestic Affairs

May 21: Auditorium 3, QNCC. Conductor of Honour Dmitrij Kitajenko leads the QPO, with flute solo by Nicole Preßler. The orchestra will perform a selection of arrangements including Felix Mendelssohn’s Scottish Symphony No. 3 in A Minor, Op. 56; Jacques Ibert’s Flute Concerto (1934), and Nikolai RimskyKorsakov’s Capriccio Espagnol, Op. 34. Starts at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are QR 75-QR 200 and are available at www.qatarphilharmonicorchestra.org.

Until May 15: Garage Gallery, The Fire Station. Domestic Affairs is an exhibition that explores the house as an interface to our social, economic and political lives. Initiated by Bureau Europa and curated by Giovanni Innella and Agata Jaworska, it features 70 works by internationally-renowned artists. The Doha edition also features a selection of pieces by local designers currently in residence at the Fire Station, and VCUQatar students from the Art Foundation and MFA programs. The local exhibition was curated by Simone Muscolino, Director of the Art Foundation Program at VCUQatar, and Aisha Al Sowaidi, VCUQatar alumna and current artist-in-residence at the Fire Station. For more information visit www.qm.org.qa.

KATARA Origami Family Workshop

Until May 28: Art Studio B19, Katara. Spend the afternoon learning the ancient art of origami. Ideal for families with young children, this workshop runs from 3:00 p.m. till 7:00 p.m. Tickets are QR 100 and registration is required at www.katara.net.

QATAR-CHINA 2016 Silks From The Silk Road – Chinese Art Of Silk

Until May 9: QM Gallery, Building 10, Katara.The second major exhibition of the Qatar-China 2016 Year of Culture, Silks from the Silk Road – Chinese Art of Silk, presents silk as a theme and as a special local product of Zhejiang that played an important role in trade along the Silk Road. The exhibition highlights ancient and modern Chinese silk-works, with around 100 pieces due to be showcased at the QM Gallery in Katara. The exhibition aims to map out the history of silk and its cultural significance over thousands of years, and allows visitors to experience the charm of contemporary Chinese silk. Free entry. For more information visit www.yearsofculture.qa.

ANIMA GALLERY & LOUNGE Micro Invasion by Masakatsu Sashie

May 9-July 30: Parcel 17, Porto Arabia, The PearlQatar. For the first time in the Gulf, Japanese artist Masakatsu Sashie will debut a collection of new works during this premiere solo exhibition. Opening hours are Sunday to Thursday from 10:00 a.m. till 7:00 p.m. For more information call 3377-1370, email art@animagallery.com, or visit www.animagl.com.

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ARTS & CULTURE

By Shahmim Akram Photography by Jessie Palanca

Michael Pignéguy, leader of the Awakenings Ensemble, has long championed the power of musical improvisation, which was an important element of last month’s Rhythm Explosion show. QH spoke with the artist to learn more about the work he’s doing within Doha’s music scene.

rom drum clinics and workshops, to shows and musical recordings, Michael Pignéguy is working hard to provide his own unique contribution to Qatar’s expanding music industry. From an early age he learned to play the piano and drums and moved onto music composition and producing in his native Australia. He’s widely recognized as a producer and musical composer and has worked on projects and collaborations in Abu Dhabi and Dubai. He set up the Awakenings Ensemble shortly after he moved to Doha in 2010 and has performed many times with the group at Jazz at Lincoln Center Doha. He describes the Awakenings Ensemble as “world-music influenced…it aims to be something which sounds very current in terms of production techniques and has a world element in terms of the diversity of instruments that are used.” An example of this world influence can be heard in the track ‘Children of Change’ (from the Awakenings Ensemble debut album Speak) which exhibits jazz chords, world-music rhythms and Arabic lyrics.

“The Awakenings Ensemble incorporates elements of jazz and improvisation is important in certain sections of the pieces…it affects the harmony, chords and rhythm.” The act of musical improvisation is significant to Pignéguy “because my main instrument is percussion and drums so that rhythmic side is very important. One of the things that jazz does is it tries to re-interpret pieces in different ways – and one of the ways to re-interpret is through that rhythmic medium.” Last month’s Rhythm Explosion show at the American School of Doha (ASD) was a collaborative effort between the students, Pignéguy, the Awakenings Ensemble, and invited guest performer Israel Varela. The program with ASD was designed to work to the strengths of the school, with a fiveweek schedule which included workshops and a student-focused final performance. Pignéguy credits the ASD students on their preparation and hard work for a successful show: “The amount of involvement from the students grew with 26 students taking part in the final show, while the professional musicians were very much in supportive roles. One of the students asked me ‘when we’re playing with the Awakenings Ensemble will it be easier or harder?’ I replied that as long as you’re prepared it will be really good; that means you do your homework and you get that benefit… and they’ve really done that.” Pignéguy personally invited Mexican drummer Israel Varela to take part in the program with a musical workshop and a double drum set in the show, which was recorded for a future Awakenings Ensemble album. “We’re both drummers and our musical values are melodically similar. I was

also hoping that his passion and his way of approaching music would rub off on the students – which I think has happened. I knew that he would be relaxed with the students and communicate how they can improve quickly in a way that the students could understand.” Pignéguy envisages future programs with him as the artist-in-residence, which would allow him to write musical pieces and run student workshops with professional guest musicians. This longer program schedule would also allow for a tailored program working specifically with the musical strengths of an individual school so that “you can work with students to prepare them to a very high level. Importantly, you don’t want to overshadow the student you’re trying to support. If students are well-prepared when they work with stronger players, that suddenly bumps them up and they’re able to absorb that high level of sophistication.” Looking towards the future, Pignéguy hopes to continue to work on educational and community workshops with improvisation playing a big role. “A lot of semi-professional musicians are really fascinated by improvisation but they know nothing about it. The closest analogy for us is the way that we use spoken language to communicate. Improvisation is not just playing whatever you think – otherwise when you speak, it would be just gobbled-gook. When people start to understand, they can actually [begin] putting together letters into words, words into phrases… If you can improvise, you really can understand the nuts and bolts of music and you can speak and communicate creatively using different musical styles.” n

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Getting into the groove with the students

Guest Drummer Israel Varela

Michael Pignéguy in his element

The Awakenings Ensemble debut album Speak was recorded in Doha, Dubai, Melbourne and Perth and features live recordings. It’s available to purchase from the Awakenings Ensemble website www.theawakeningsensemble.com. Michael Pignéguy’s current album Les Trois Scenes features global artists and a range of musical styles including Arabic, funk, soul and jazz. It’s available to purchase on the iTunes store. For more information visit www.michaelpigneguy.com.

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ARTS & CULTURE

Up, Up and Away! By Dawn Gibson Photography by Jessie Palanca

Singing, dancing, jokes galore and a flying car – the next Doha Players production promises something for everyone. QH goes behind the scenes of Chitty Chitty Bang Bang.

t’s Saturday afternoon and a group of about 20 children of varied ages are going through the paces of a dance routine, frequently stopping and starting to make sure everyone has the hang of the steps. A cluster of adults look on encouragingly, while several metres away another group is practicing their singing. Three times a week, this is the reality for 60 members of The Doha Players as they fine-tune their next show, the classic musical Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, to be staged this May. In keeping with The Doha Players’ decades-long tradition of staging family musicals and pantomimes – recent successes include Peter Pan, Les Misérables, Jack and the Beanstalk and Hot Mikado – the show is shaping up to be a feel-good spectacle for people of all ages.

Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, best known from the 1960s film version starring Dick Van Dyke, is the story of an eccentric inventor, Caractacus Potts, who restores a banged-up Grand Prix car, much to the delight of his two children. Set in the 1910s, the musical follows the family’s adventures with this very special car as they travel to a faraway land to rescue the children’s grandfather from an evil baron. Sitting down for a quick chat during rehearsal, director Angela Walton is surprisingly relaxed about managing such a big show with so many child actors. However, as the director of numerous past productions, she has plenty of experience to draw upon. “There are 30 children in Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, which is my smallest child cast so far,” she explains. “We had 55 children for The King & I, and 40 children plus a dog for The Wizard of Oz!” Twelve-year-old Stephen Beveridge, who attends Park House School, and 10-year-old Doha College student Georgia Kendall play the inventor’s children, Jeremy and Jemima. Both are very much looking forward to opening night, although Georgia admits feeling a bit nervous since it’s her first big role (Stephen previously played a starring role in a production of The King & I in his native Scotland). When asked why other children would want to see the show, Georgia says: “It’s funny and entertaining

– it’s quite an interesting story and I think they would enjoy it if they came.” Even the considerable challenge of manufacturing a flying car seems to be no problem for the seasoned team. Co-producer Phil Mitchell is working on the car alongside Jamie Honey, who came up with a helicopter (yes, it flew) for a production of Miss Saigon directed by Walton for her group Senter Stage. Mitchell has co-produced, performed in and created sets for various shows that Walton has directed. “We made a car for Grease a few years ago, Jamie made the helicopter for Miss Saigon, and also made a machine to melt the witch for The Wizard of Oz,” he says. “Angela has put on seven or eight shows that I’ve been involved with – and they’ve all been knock-outs.” Flying cars aside, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang is centred on family fun – not only for the audience, but also for the performers and backstage team. Many of the actors and production crew are related – Walton’s husband Stuart is co-producer; Ed Hake, who plays the lead role of inventor Caractacus Potts, is acting alongside his son Benjamin – at four years old the youngest in the show – while Ed’s wife Liz is one of the choreographers.

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Memorising their steps ahead of their big performance

The ladies in their costumes practice their moves

Lead female actor Lauren Wiese, who plays the delightfully named Truly Scrumptious, is performing with her daughters, seven-year-old Ella and five-year-old Mia. “It makes life so much easier in a thousand different ways – I don’t need a babysitter!” she laughs. “Fortunately, my daughters love drama as well, so it’s nice to be able to share this together.” Wiese, who has previously appeared in The Wizard of Oz, Oklahoma and Annie, says the show was well cast and had a really funny storyline, as well as memorable comic characters. “I’ve been backstage watching, just laughing and having to control myself,” she says. Kerry Suek, who provides some of the hilarity as one of two evil, bumbling spies, alongside Peter Cook, says there was a real sense of community backstage. “We’re like a big family, all pulling together to do a show to entertain a lot of people, which is exciting.” n THE DOHA PLAYERS’ CHITTY CHITTY BANG BANG Location: To be announced Dates: • May 18, 19 & 20: 7:00 p.m. • May 20 & 21: 2:30 p.m. matinee performance Ticket Price: QR 100 Contact Info: For ticket enquiries or more information, call 5575-5102, or email admin@thedohaplayers.com

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ARTS & CULTURE

By Antony David Antoniou Photography by Jessie Palanca

QH heard about a little Korean cultural centre in West Bay doing great things – so we had to drop by and check it out. We spoke with Jay Hong and his wife Jiwon An who’ve been offering a vibrant taste of their homeland at Sarang Plus Center since 2013. Here’s why you should go visit. QH: Geographically speaking, Qatar and Korea are pretty far apart. How did you and your wife find yourselves putting down roots here?

JH: Geographically speaking there’s a large distance between our two nations, but with regards to culture we share some similarities. We are both family-oriented, we both have predominately conservative cultures and, until very recently, Korea was also a developing nation. Qatar has huge potential and is advancing as fast as or even faster than we did. When I was studying International Relations for my Masters Degree a few years ago, I become interested in the region. I think until recently the Middle East was virgin territory for Koreans looking to do business. To me, it feels like an untouched spot for the type of business activities that I wanted to do – namely establish a Korean cultural centre. I became fascinated by the region and, later on, I decided to focus on Qatar...which is why I ended up coming here.

QH: So you were a man with a mission then? JH: I actually knew what I wanted to do before I came here. You see, my wife is a traditional musician and teacher so it made sense to utilize her skills in some way. When I arrived in Doha, there was no Korean cultural centre here; I saw a gap in the market and took it. There are also a lot of Koreans living here – so the centre services their needs. Plus the global interest in the K-Wave movement that has taken Asia and the wider world by storm didn’t hurt. Most other Asian countries including west Asia are very interested in Korean fashion, K-pop, TV soaps, food and our traditions – so I thought I could make the most of this and create a business here.

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QH: What makes Sarang Plus a hub for the wider community? JH: In the past Doha was mainly all about malls and hotels –and we need more than that to enjoy life. We need more cultural oases so people can meet and engage in activities together. Qatar is about 90 per cent expats and they all miss home or can be lonely sometimes. Sarang Plus gives them a meeting place where they can have fun and grow at the same time. Our centre encourages friendship and tries to promote cultural understanding between people of different cultures and nationalities. QH: How can people find you guys?

Learning traditional Korean dance whilst wearing the Hanbok

JH: We’re actually located just behind Onaiza Street, opposite The International School of Choueifat in West Bay. The Bahraini Embassy is close by too. If you type ‘Sarang Plus Doha’ into Google, you’ll easily find it. Most people these days use social media, so the best way to contact us or find out more about the centre is to visit our [Sarang Plus] Facebook page. QH: What events do you host on a regular basis? JH: Sometimes we’re asked by other cultural centres to do certain initiatives or, for example, hotels also ask us to host events. Every now and then at the centre we’ve held a small Korean market showcase where people could experience Koreanmade handicrafts and other products. We also provided courses for the public to take part in such as vKorean traditional music and cooking classes. Our visitors have also tried some fun customary Korean games and made traditional Korean kites and fans. That was a really fun day – all-in-all we had about 130 people who came out to experience Sarang Plus during that gathering. QH: What keeps you motivated after three years running the centre?

Jiwon An letting rip on the traditional Korean Drums

JH: Actually, for me, the classes are important but what I really enjoy are the friendships and bonds that I create here at the centre with people from all around the world. I also enjoy seeing people

enjoy my culture – this brings me a lot of happiness. Sarang means ‘love’ in Korean; I want people to come and visit the centre and feel the love. For more information on the Sarang Plus Korean Cultural Center call 3385-9974, email sarangplus.qa@gmail.com, or like them on Facebook. n Korean Language Lessons. • Level 1: Wednesdays 6:00 p.m. till 8:00 p.m. • Level 2: Thursdays 4:00 p.m. till 6:00 p.m. • Level 3: Tuesdays 6:00 p.m. till 8:00 p.m. • Level 4: Mondays 4:30 p.m. till 6:30 p.m. QR 1,000 for three months Korean Traditional Music Lessons • Tues & Thurs, 9:30 a.m. till 11:30 a.m. • QR 300 per month Taekwondo Lessons • Three times per week: QR 600 per month • Sun, Tues & Thurs, 2:30 p.m. till 3:30 p.m., 4:00 p.m. till 5:00 p.m. & 5:00 p .m. till 6:00 p.m. Two times per week: QR 500 per month • Mon & Wed, 2:30 p.m. till 3:30 p.m. Korean Cooking Classes • Occasionally – watch out for announcements and updates on their Facebook page • QR 150 per lesson

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ARTS & CULTURE

Listings

Museum Guide

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

QH RECOMMENDS

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

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

The Fire Station & Garage Gallery IAID Visual Arts

Sat-Thurs: Hilal St., Al-Tadamon Signal, D-Ring Road. IAID’s Visual Arts program is a progressive course for beginners, intermediate and advanced that covers colour theory, art styles, drawing and painting techniques, shapes and figures, visual art perception and portraits with the use of various art mediums. For more information call 4432-0974/4441-1234, email enquire@iaidonline.org, or visit www.iaidonline.org.

IAID Indian Classical Dance

Sat-Thurs: Hilal St., Al-Tadamon Signal, D-Ring Road. The course tackles the dance styles of Bharatanatyam and Mohiniattam, with certificates awarded to graduates. The IAID Indian Dance program is a seven-year certificate course affiliated to the Nalanda Dance Research Centre Mumbai, India. For more information call 4432-0974/ 4441-1234, email enquire@iaidonline.org, or visit www.iaidonline.org.

MATHAF: ARAB MUSEUM OF MODERN ART FOCUS: Works from Mathaf Collection, Vol.2

Until Sept 4: Education City. The exhibition presents a collection of unique works by Emirati artist Hassan Sharif in his first solo display at Mathaf as part of its ongoing series –FOCUS: Works from Mathaf Collection, featuring artists from the museum’s permanent collection. The first five exhibitions featured Farid Belkahia (Morocco), Saloua Raouda Choucair (Lebanon), Faraj Daham (Qatar), Inji Efflatoun (Egypt) and Abdulhalim Radwi (Saudi Arabia). In this second rotation of the exhibition, Focus: Volume 2 will present the first four of these artists alongside a unique presentation of works by Sharif. Entry is free and opening hours are Tuesday to Sunday from 11:00 a.m. till 6:00 p.m. Closed on Mondays. For more information call 4402-8855, or visit www.mathaf.org.qa.

MUSEUM OF ISLAMIC ART Qajar Women: Images of Women in 19th Century Iran

Until June 16: A temporary exhibition showcasing a wide variety of artworks from the Qajar period, all of which feature Persian women as the main subject to highlight their importance in the visual arts in 19th century Iran and contemporary movements. Free entry. For more information call 4422-4444, or visit www.mia.org.qa.

QATAR MUSEUMS What About the Art? Contemporary Art from China

Until July 16: Gallery Al Riwaq. Artist Cai Guo-Qiang returns to Qatar, this time as a curator, to present an exhibition featuring 15 contemporary Chinese artists and collectives working in a variety of mediums. As part of the Qatar-China 2016 Year of Culture, the exhibition is set to be a major highlight. Entry is free, so be sure to check it out. For more information visit www.qm.org.qa.

QATAR PHILHARMONIC ORCHESTRA Mozart’s Clarinet Concerto

May 13: Katara Opera House. Tomáš Netopil conducts the QPO with Rony Moser on clarinet solo. Featuring arrangements from Bedrich Smetana’s From The Bartered Bride (Prodaná nevesta): Overture; Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart: Concerto in A Major for clarinet and orchestra, K. 622, and Antonín Dvorák’s Symphony No. 7 in D Minor, Op. 70, B. 141. Tickets are QR 75-QR 200 and are available at www.qatarphilharmonicorchestra.org.

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

Gallery Al Riwaq

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

QMA Gallery

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

VCUQATAR Community Classes

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

line! See ushapon pening.com www.qatar

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COMMUNITY

Top Picks

IAID Spring Workshop 2016

Ongoing: Hilal St., Al-Tadamon Signal, D-Ring Road. Spring into action and join IAID’s Spring Workshop for kids and youths ages three to 18 years-old. Featuring exciting courses such as Sing A Star, Bollywood Mania, Coffee Painting, Fit-To-Dance, Colour Harmonies, Origami & Pop-Up Books and Hip-Hop Hooray. For more information call 4432-0974, email enquire@iaidonline.org, or visit www.iaidonline.org.

KATARA Cultural Diversity Festival

Until May 31: Beach 21. With 20 countries participating from all over the world showcasing their traditions and heritage in partnership with UNESCO, the Cultural Diversity Festival will feature folkloric performances, workshops and musical numbers from Qatari and Filipino bands, plus much more along the Katara esplanade. For more information visit www.katara.net.

DOHA TWEETUPS Monthly Networking

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

QATAR ANIMAL WELFARE SOCIETY Become A Volunteer SALSA N CANDELA Greek Dance Classes

Mondays: Eforea Spa, Hilton Doha. Greek dance, or horos, has been a mainstay tradition in Greece since ancient times and folk dances are as alive today as they were back then. Each region formed its own choreography and style to fit in with their own local customs and there are over 10,000 traditional dances that come from all regions of Greece. If you’re curious to find out what the Greek spirit is all about join every Monday from 9:00 p.m. till 10:00 p.m. For more information visit www.salsancandela.com.

Ongoing: Whether you’re a pet-owner or a lover of animals, the Qatar Animal Welfare Society (QAWS) is always looking for volunteers to help out. With over 100 animals in their care, every hour of donated energy to help these animals counts. Dog-walking, kennel-cleaning, animal socialization or administrative work, QAWS can always use a helping paw! For more information on becoming a volunteer call 5539-6074, or visit www.qaws.org.

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COMMUNITY

By Rubina Singh Photography by Jessie Palanca

We spend a leisurely Saturday afternoon at the MIA Park Bazaar –Doha’s largest communityorganized market. From local handicrafts, to works of art and Mum’s home-cooking, there’s something to catch your fancy at every stall…

family day in the open where children can run around, cycle, skate, fly kites, while adults can stroll, exercise, visit a museum, enjoy beautiful views and cuisines from across the world as well as shop for unusual items.....all this and more, in one day and place, is what can be expected from a day out at the MIA markets. Set beside the Museum of Islamic Art, not far from Richard Serra’s iconic sculpture ‘Seven,’ in the midst of lush green gardens, you can find this treasure trove on the Corniche, every Saturday. From cool cotton dresses, bed sheets, toys, hats, Turkish lamps and crockery, to silk scarves and stone jewellery from far extremes of the globe, there’s plenty to

A bustling market in the beautiful MIA Park

feast the eyes and the belly too, with many visitors coming specially to taste the international food being sold by local expat families. Nowhere else in Doha perhaps, can one find such a vast international representation on a regular basis – all in one place! While the market opens to visitors only after mid-day on Saturday, yet more often than not, one finds eager customers trickling in by the dozens, sometimes even before the vendors have set up their exotic wares on the tables provided – an evident proof of its popularity. What started perhaps as a small side-gig for many vendors has blossomed into a popular tourist attraction and family day out for local residents. The opportunity to expose their products to new customers every weekend without any cost for participation is heartily welcomed by the sellers. Taking advantage of this, many residents have initiated small ‘cottage industries’ with entire families now coming together on a regular basis to cook exotic traditional dishes to the delight of the throngs of visitors. The bazaar has grown exponentially in popularity, so much that there’s now a long waiting list of vendors pending their turn to sell their wares. While some are stay-at-home Mums trying to make a small income on the weekend, or working professionals wanting to generate an extra side-salary, the market

presents a unique opportunity for both sellers and buyers to experience something different. Many of the regular vendors are shopkeepers from the nearby souq’s who appreciate a cost-free venue to sell their wares. However one person’s gain is another’s loss. “The shopkeepers shouldn’t be allowed to sell at this market and the MIA Bazaar should remain an opportunity for cottage industry and entrepreneurs to test the ground,” says a newbie exploring the potential for his business ideas. “It isn’t possible for starters to compete with the low prices which established wholesale business owners can sell their goods at. Hence, it’s pushing us newcomers out, which is perhaps contradictory to the market’s original mission and vision. It’s also resulting in the same products and designs that are already available in shops elsewhere in Qatar to be sold here, rather than making the MIA markets an opportunity for new ideas or entrepreneurs who really need this support.” “In a country where rents are high, the MIA Bazaar provides me with a very special opportunity to test the market before I establish a full-fledged import business,” says another entrepreneur who agrees that the bazaar would serve the community better by being reserved solely for starters and small cottage industries.

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Charming trinkets and other accessories on offer

his wife in this venture. “This is possibly because in recent times, it’s become increasingly cumbersome to get permissions from regulatory authorities for such markets to be organized with the result that only the ‘big fish’ are able to survive,” he laments. Steven Stelljes is another home-grown entrepreneur who’s optimizing the opportunity to market his ideas through the MIA Bazaar. Only 27 years-old, he’s been living in Qatar since he was 17 and has come up with an original idea to revive the ancient tradition of miswak – a natural toothbrush alternative. Another popular item at the market that beckons more and more people is Baltic amber. Marz Hallam has been selling amber jewellery for a couple of years now and says her product is popular for its pain-relieving properties. “When people in my child’s school found out I’m Polish, they often requested me to get them amber on a string to help teething babies with pain relief, and after a while I got tired of doing this individually for various friends.” “The bazaar gives me something to do,” says Suphapit, who spends the day selling clothes and jewellery from her home country, Thailand. Explaining her take on the subject, she elaborates, “It would be wonderful to have more opportunities and markets like this for people to test their business ideas in Doha.” “There used to be many more bazaars in the city previously, but most of these small events have died out,” explains her husband Phil, who in spite of a busy week at work spends his Saturday supporting

That’s when the entrepreneur in her saw an opportunity to do good and create a small business; since then the family spends their Saturday together selling amber trinkets. “When people come back after using the amber and tell us how it helped them, it makes it worth our while sitting here week after week in the sun!” she says, with a beaming smile. The MIA Park Bazaar is held every Saturday from 12 noon till 8:00 p.m. For more information visit www.mia.org.qa. n

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SPECIAL PROMOTION

Doha College students tackling the pressure cooker environment of exams

Surviving Exams By Dr. Steffen Sommer, Principal of Doha College Images courtesy of Doha College

Whether you’re a crammer, or you hit the books diligently, there’s no getting around the jitters of exam time. For senior year students in particular, with so much riding on their final grade-point average for university admissions, getting through this period with a successful outcome is key. Thankfully, Doha College has some strategies to help you cope.

xamination time is almost upon us. This is a stressful time in a child’s life, especially in the final years of school. At Doha College we’ve celebrated the outstanding achievements of many students over the past years and have watched them enter some of the world’s most prestigious tertiary institutions. In fact, our students’ examination results have placed us among the most successful British curriculum schools in the U.K. However, I know that these results were the culmination of hard work and determination by the students. Some find the pressure of examinations more challenging than others. There are ways that you, as a parent, can help your child successfully navigate their way through the exam period. I recommend you encourage your child to prepare a revision

time-table. A clear, well-planned and detailed revision program is important to ensure students are prepared. The revision plan should have a logical layout and be easy to follow. Our teachers will be advising students to do this and there are resources online for further reference. How we revise is something that will support us when we approach the examinations. It’s important to have an understanding of your child’s learning style (e.g. visual-spatial, bodily-kinesthetic, musical or logical). I touched on this in a recent edition of Qatar Happening – our children are all individuals and one style of revision may not suit another. During the revision stage, our children absorb large volumes of information. It’s important that they have regular study breaks so they can maintain their focus. The study break (every 15 minutes) and some light exercise (walk up the stairs) re-engages the brain and helps in the retention of information. Your child will be able to tell you whether they study better at night or during the day. It’s imperative during this time that they still maintain regular sleep patterns and a healthy diet. The temptation to turn to caffeinated drinks and fas- food can be great. Despite the convenience, these will not support your child’s energy levels and concentration. A combination of dehydration and tiredness is the antithesis of successful exam preparation. Mild dehydration can make tasks seem more difficult as well as lower concentration. If tasks are perceived as difficult, anxiety levels will increase.

Sleep is the only time the body can rejuvenate, repair and prepare itself. As a parent I know that it’s virtually impossible to keep a child from their mobile phone or other devices. However, research shows that answering late night emails can increase tension in the body and the ‘glow’ can affect the release of the sleep-inducing hormone, melatonin. Finally, I urge you to be calm and supportive. We recognize that it’s a critical time in their lives, but a supportive family environment will significantly reduce the level of stress your child may feel. I extend my best wishes to all students undertaking their exams and look forward to hearing stories of their outstanding success. n

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COMMUNITY

Charge It: Teens & Credit Cards By Jacqueline Bodnar

If you’re like most parents, you may shudder at the mere thought of your teen getting a credit card. But we live in a credit-driven society, so for most teens getting a credit card, (or five!), is something that’s going to eventually happen. The good news is you can help teach them to be more responsible with theirs by making it an issue right from the start.

redit cards can be both good and bad. Those who aren’t responsible with them may find that they lead to poor credit scores, high debt, and provide the ability to impulse shop. They can also provide benefits, such as helping to build good credit, being used for rentals, and as an emergency back-up. In order to get the benefits out of having a credit card it’s important not to fall into the trap that leads to the negative aspects. Here are seven things you should discuss with your teen about using credit cards:

1. Spending. Discuss issues such as impulse purchases and maintaining a budget, despite having access to a

credit line. The spending will eventually catch up with you, even if you don’t have to pay it at that moment.

2. Interest. Many teens may be surprised to see how much interest will be paid if they maintain a balance. Provide some examples and calculate how many hours they will need to work to just pay for interest. Also, anything they got on sale will not have been such a great deal if they end up paying monthly interest. Discuss the importance of paying the bill in full each month.

3. Default. It’s important that teens know what will happen if they fail to make their payments (e.g., late fees, credit impact). This can have a long lasting impact, because it will give them a poor credit rating, which can even lead to higher interest rates on future purchases, such as homes and cars, and may make it more difficult to get a job if the places do credit checks.

4. Credit Scores. Discuss what credit scores are, how your teen can help theirs to be good, and why it’s important. A credit score can impact purchases of homes and cars, as well as jobs.

5. Fraud. Since credit card fraud is so common it’s necessary to inform them that they need to keep up on any purchases listed on their statement. If they see

things that shouldn’t be on there they need to report it immediately to the credit card agency. Also, they need to know the importance of reporting any lost or stolen credit cards right away. Teach them to protect their credit card information.

6. Dates. Every teen should know the due date of their credit card bill. If they find that date to be a difficult one to meet each month, then they can call to make arrangements to have it moved to a new date.

7. Sharing. Teens are at an age that they don’t mind sharing and have a lot of trust for their friends or those they are dating. They need to realize that sharing a line of credit, or letting someone else use their card, should not happen. The most important thing that parents can do when their teens begin using a credit card is to make sure they understand what it is and how it works. Taking the time to discuss the above credit card issues with your teen may save some headaches later on. While not all teens will heed the advice provided, at least parents can take comfort in knowing they at least tried to lead them down the path of responsible credit card use. n Author’s Bio: Jacqueline Bodnar is a freelance writer living in Port Orange, Fla. with her husband and two children.

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COMMUNITY

Listings

Community Guide Australian and New Zealand Business in Qatar Group

QH RECOMMENDS

6651-1892 www.anzbiq.org

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

Doha Players

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

Egyptian Women’s Association 5572-4171

CAKE QUEEN Cake Decorating Classes

From May 6: Fancy yourself the next Martha Stewart? Become a master of the fondant with Cake Queen’s professional cake-decorating classes and make your next party or special occasion a colourful one. Book a series of five two-hour classes now. For more information call 5528-5680, email cake.queen@hotmail.com, or follow them on Twitter @cake_queen_Qatar.

COUNTRY CONNECTIONS QATAR Relocation Services For Expats

Ongoing: If you’ve made the move to Qatar, it’s only natural to experience some culture shock at first. Country Connections Qatar is a local company that offers settlement and relocation services to help newcomers adjust to life in Qatar. With a range of options to suit every budget they offer a number of services that include assisting with accommodation and school searches, spousal support and city orientations, to providing information or necessities such as arranging childcare and medical appointments. For more information call 3353-7452, email support_ccq@hotmail.com, or visit www.countryconnectionsqatar.com.

DOHA MUMS Hotel Pool Session

Mondays: New in town? Join the Doha Mums for a pool playgroup at a hotel from 9:30 a.m. till 12:30 p.m. If you want to make new friends and keep active, then this is for you. The little ones will enjoy the shaded pool and older kids can explore Doha's longest private beach. For more information email rsvp@dohamums.com, or visit www.dohamums.com.

IAID Hatha Yoga For Adults

Sun, Tues & Thurs: Hilal St., Al-Tadamon Signal, D-Ring Road. Widely practiced around the world, hatha yoga consists of physical postures and exercises aimed at reducing stress. Join along in this class for adults with renowned Qatar yoga instructor P.B. Shine. For more information call 4432-0974, email enquire@iaidonline.org, or visit www.iaidonline.org.

KATARA Beach & Water-Sports

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

QATAR TOASTMASTERS CLUB Qatar Open 2016: Youth Speaking Contest

May 6: This public-speaking contest encourages young people across Doha to speak and have their voices heard. Spread over three rounds in the first half of 2016, the Grand Finale is scheduled to be held on May 6 at the Radisson Blu. Young adults ages 13 to 18 will have the chance to compete for the title of Champion Speaker. For more information call 5519-8897, email qataropen2016@qatartoastmasters.net, or visit www.qatartoastmastersclub.net.

SOUQ WAQIF ART CENTER Art Education

Ongoing: Located in the lovingly restored Souq Waqif, the Art Center has an array of Arab-based art education classes to keep even the most creative among us busy for months. You can learn calligraphy, painting, drawing and even ceramics. For more information follow them on Facebook.

French-Speaking Ladies Group 5559-7467

Indian Women’s Association 4442-4052

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

Red Dotters Qatar

5520-9294 Follow @RedDottersQatar on Twitter

Silver Dhow Association 4435-2598

Turkish Women’s Association www.twaq.org

Tuesday Ladies Group Email: tlgindoha@gmail.com

SASCOM: South Africans In Qatar

www.southafricansinqatar.netfirms.com

Canadians In Qatar

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

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FOOD & DINING

Top Picks

ORYX ROTANA Spanish Week

May 3-14: The Cellar. Experience authentic Spanish food and grapes designed by a renowned chef flown in all the way from Spain. Chef Agustín Martínez Carvajal will be presenting the newest culinary trends from the Mediterranean Sea and his passion for Spanish cuisine at Oryx Rotana’s restaurants, Choices and The Cellar. For more information call 4402-3333.

THE ST. REGIS DOHA Grand Friday Brunch

Fridays: Terrace. Gather with family and friends and experience a lavish buffet with treats for everyone. Relax with live music and enjoy breath-taking views from the Terrace. QR 350 with soft beverages, QR 450 with enhanced beverages, and QR 175 for kids. From 12:00 p.m. till 4:30 p.m. For more information call 4446-0105 or email diningreservations@stregis.com.

THE WESTIN DOHA HOTEL & SPA South African Flavours

Daily: Hunters Room & Grill. The signature grill restaurant at The Westin Doha Hotel & Spa, offers an upscale, contemporary spin on the traditional grill-house with a modern take on grills, meat cuts and fish specialties. This South African joint features masculine and minimalist décor such as leather seats, dark wood tables and hardwood floors. The restaurant also has an open kitchen for guests to watch the chefs as they prepare succulent steaks. From 7:00 p.m. till 11:00 pm. For more information call 4492-1555.

MARSA MALAZ KEMPINSKI Schnitzel Sundays DOHA MARRIOTT Cinco de Mayo At Street Food Doha!

May 5: Hola! It’s party time! In celebration of Mexico’s Cinco de Mayo join Doha Marriott for Street Food Doha on May 5 for a re-vamped evening with traditional Mexican-themed stations. Enjoy the strums of the Mexican guitar courtesy of their famous mariachi band from Salsa. Try your luck with their piñata competitions and try the hottest wings in town. Are you brave enough? QR 335 including unlimited beverages. From 6:30 p.m. till 11:30 p.m. For more information call 4429-8499.

Sundays: Sawa. Every Sunday, Sawa is preparing a selection of five European variations on your alltime favourite schnitzel! Pair it with a refreshing beverage and start your week with comfort food. QR 140 for a tender schnitzel of your choice and a selected beverage. From 6:00 p.m. till 10:30 p.m. For more information call 4035-5011, email restaurants.marsamalaz@kempinski.com, or visit www.kempinski.com/marsamalaz.

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FOOD & DINING

By Antony D. Antoniou Photography by Jessie Palanca

I’m tempted to strike it but it looks too beautiful and ornate for such brutish thoughts.

From Chiang Mai to Krabi, Bangkok to Nong Khai, Thai cuisine is as varied as each of the six regions that span the Land of Smiles. Most prominent is the rich gastronomic history of its Royal kitchens, where centuries-old tradition elicits flavours that are still well-loved today .With this in mind QH couldn’t wait to indulge at the Westin Doha Hotel & Spa’s exquisite Sabai Thai restaurant.

The building itself is a modern interpretation of a traditional Thai house, its wooden structure raised on stilts and topped with a steep gabled roof. Boasting six of the city’s newest outlets, the Westin Doha Hotel & Spa has plenty for everyone and Sabai Thai is the jewel in its crown. Situated at the centre of the property and offering majestic Royal Thai cuisine, this is one place you don’t want to miss.

he food of a nation says a lot about its people and Thais are no exception – spicy, strong and full of delightful surprises. Globally speaking, Thai food is among the most famous and well-loved Asian cuisines with a huge variety of tastes and textures. The word ‘sabai’ literally means ‘happy’, but can also convey other states of being, such as comfortable or relaxed. This sense of tranquillity is often described as the Thai way of life. The tranquil eatery certainly lives up to this notion as we’re soon to find out. Across the hotel’s vast outdoor terrace, we’re escorted past the pool and garden and onto a walk-way lit with fire lanterns, enticing us into a world of Siam cooking. We cross a bridge and are welcomed at the entrance by a lavish Oriental gong.

The open kitchen at the back of the dining area offers guests a glimpse of the sizzle and stir. As well as the main menu, Sabai Thai also accommodates an express business lunch and a signature weekend brunch too. The interior leaves you under no illusion that you’ve been transported to Southeast Asia with its rich, dark woods and ornate adornments. Although the building is quite large from the outside, indoors is intimate and well proportioned. A plethora of modern chic ceiling lights dangle down and softly light the space, creating a warm, comfortable and relaxing ambiance. We’re shown to our seats in the semi-enclosed veranda overlooking a small moat filled with vibrant coy-carp at the front of the restaurant. This evening we get to sample a true feast starting with some thoughtfully-decorated appetizers that include som tam Thai – a shredded green papaya salad with string beans, cherry tomatoes, peanuts and a spicy lime dressing. Next to arrive is the yam som-O which is an herbed Thai pomelo salad with prawns. The freshness and mix of shallots, lightly toasted coconut and cashew

nuts that make up the dish is simply genius. Plenty of thought has gone into making it and yet, it looks simple and tastes sweet and fresh. Before we can get enough, more dishes start arriving thick and fast, the naam tok hed gub tao hu is a dry, spicy mushroom and tofu salad. It’s an instant hit and tingles in the mouth way after you’ve swallowed. After a five minute break, we’re back the zone again and ready for the main courses to arrive – first of which comes straight from the grill. The satay gai rue nuea is six peices of either grilled chicken or beef served with a peanut sauce and cucumber relish. We order a second helping and enjoy the rich, sweet flavour of the satay sauce. Meang kam comes next and comprises dried shrimps, shallots, lime, chilli, toasted coconut and ginger dressing inside exotic wild betel leaf wraps. These small bite-size portions are a kaleidoscope of tastes and, once again, the presentation is gorgeous. Then the gaeng phed ped yang linchee arrives; this red curry contains succulent slices of roasted duck, cherry tomatoes and lychees. This was one of the best red curries I’ve tried in a long time. The kick from the spices isn’t too strong either and the cherry tomatoes add a hint of sweetness that’s just right. The iconic green curry (gaeng khiew waan gau) that Thai cuisine is famous for makes its appearance, and again, it’s not too spicy, the chicken is soft and the eggplant a nice addition. Basil and Siamese rice noodles make up the rest of the dish. At this point we’re full to bursting, but I endure for the cause. What a night. Suddenly the presentation

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The best Pad Thai in Doha

Chicken satay skewers

goes up a notch as the final flurry of dishes make their way to our table. The pad Thai has an intricate egg lattice effect that covers the food lying below. We peel it back and the smells of Thailand burst into the air. This pad Thai tastes as genuine and yummy as anything you’ll find on the streets of Bangkok, and we make short work of it! The baked sea bass (pla grapong ob snoonprai) is a change of direction. It’s marinated with Thai herbs and served with juicy steamed vegetables. The meat is soft and moist and it feels super healthy as we take a bite here and there. One more plate suddenly appears – the gai phad med mamuaing, a stunning stir-fried chicken cashew dish with spring onions and chilli paste. Thai cuisine blends five fundamental tastes: sweet, spicy, sour, bitter, and salty. The main ingredients are garlic, chillies, lime juice, lemon grass, coriander, galangal, palm sugar, and fish sauce. All of which, I’m sure we’ve tried tonight. As the end of the night approaches, I’m overwhelmed by the variety and quality on offer. It’s been a Thai culinary education for me. The desserts are small (but not too small!)and we start with khow niew mamaung – coconut sticky rice (which is blue in appearance) and juicy mango. Simple and

delicious. Polamai ruam—or assorted fresh fruits to the rest of us – cleanses our palates before we move onto the third dessert of the evening. The ice cream gathi sod was, for me, the best of the bunch; the homemade ice cream had chunks of coconut embedded within and was adorned with chunks of fruit and water chestnut rubies. All in all, this was one of my best dining experiences in Doha. As the feast ended and the dishes were cleared away, we spoke with Chef de Cuisine Areewan Larpnikornkul, who hails from Thailand. She explains that the food is prepared in a traditional style inspired by her grandmother’s recipes – and everybody knows there’s nothing better than grandma’s cooking, right? Tonight has been a royal feast full of the best that Thai gastronomy has to offer. Its tastes and aroma linger on our palates and we know it won’t be long before our bellies call us back once again. n

The baked sea bass

SABAI THAI Location: Pool-side, ground floor, Westin Doha Hotel & Spa Timings: 7:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m., daily Average Meal Price: • QR 40-QR 70, appetizers • QR 55-QR 100, main courses • QR 45, desserts Licensed: Yes Smoking: Yes Contact Info: Call 4492-1555, or visit www.westindoha.com

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FOOD & DINING

A Taste Of The Old Country By Ashlee Starratt Photography by Jessie Palanca

From Syracuse to Palermo, Sicily is a world apart from its mainland brethren. One of the most infamous and culturally distinct regions of Italy, its cuisine reflects its sea and soil as only befits an island-dwelling people. QH stopped by Olive Oil restaurant in the new City Centre Rotana to sample the authentic offerings of its Sicilian Night for a taste of the homeland.

or those whose palates for Italian seldom veer from spaghetti and meatballs or a good thin-crust, there’s a whole millennia’s worth of culinary heritage you’re missing out on. Case in point? Sicily. The largest island in the Mediterranean, this autonomous region of Italy is home to early Phoenician and Greco-Roman archaeological sites, the largest active volcano in Europe – Mt. Etna, and a native gastronomy that’s built on a foundation of fresh simplicity.

So it’s with mouths watering that we head to Olive Oil restaurant at the new City Centre Rotana to sample a taste of tradition at their new weekly Sicilian night happening every Tuesday. We get there early and take a prime table with a window view overlooking the rushing West Bay streets. The interior is plush, with dark wood décor accented by muted orchid arrangements and driftwood sculptures, while the buffet displays offer splashes of colour alongside vibrant prints from a local artist. A new concept, Olive Oil’s Sicilian Night is the gastronomic brainchild of Executive Sous Chef Matteo Sciacovelli, whose Sicilian roots run deep. As he gives us a tour of the various food stations he explains that many of the offerings are based upon his Grandma’s family recipes. There’re lush tureens of Sicilian vegetable caponata, grilled aubergines and peppers tossed with toasted sesame seeds for the perfect smoky flavour, a seafood stew heaping with prawns, calamari and mussels tossed in a lightly-spiced tomato broth, and tender chicken cutlets in a truffled gravy with marinated mushrooms and silken mashed potatoes. The fragrant cheese station draws our eye, overflowing with unctuous brie, wedges of sharp Grana Padano and myriad more, next to a charcuterie platter with cured beef bresaola, antipasti and a roulade of lamb that’s begging to be

sliced. We start with some traditional salads from the cold section, filling our plates before moving on to the build-your-own bruschetta station where you can take your pick from a selection of fresh cheeses, herbed butter and tapenades. I pile my toasted slices high with a sweetly-spiced cheese spread, freshly-crushed tomatoes and an olive tapenade. To finish I drizzle the whole shebang with a few good glugs of the restaurant’s namesake condiment and garnish with a few sprigs of fresh basil from the potted plants that dot the buffet countertops. Chef Matteo also prepares a fresh selection of ‘Grandma’s’ pizza – thick, bread-like slices of dough with a thin layer of sauce and fresh toppings for veggie and meat-lovers alike. Be sure to save room on your plate for a scoopful of their Italian imported olives which they marinate in-house and are worth every pit. Back at our table our waiters Marco and Esther make sure our glasses are always full and our plates ever-fresh. The ambiance is one of relaxed comfort; as the hotel’s all-day dining restaurant I was expecting Olive Oil to be vast – but it’s not…and in the best way possible. The buffet is smaller, more intimate and the service attentive. The focus is on interaction with guests, with staff bringing piping hot bowls of fresh pasta around for table-side service. The atmosphere is communal and family-style – like any Italian experience worth its salt should be.

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from Chef Stars of the menu: take your pick Matteo's variety of homemade pasta

Eat your fill at the cold salad station A platter of vegetable lasagna is served family-style

Pride of place at Sicilian Night is reserved for Chef Matteo’s handmade pasta selections – there’s a rainbow of colourful bow-tie farfalle, thick ribbons of pappardelle, angel-hair spaghetti and dumpling-shaped mezza luna. He comes round our table with a pan of vegetable lasagna that oozes with Béchamel sauce and crunches with cheese. Then there’s a classic serving of spaghetti and meatballs that’s rich with spices and a creamy portion of mezza luna stuffed with ground beef in a truffled white mushroom sauce. All are decadent to say the least and stick-to-your-ribs delicious. Afterwards we let ourselves digest with some strong Italian coffee before making space to hit up the dessert station. I go for a decadent hot pudding which is essentially a melt-in-your-mouth chocolate chip cookie-bread drizzled with a rich vanilla sauce, plus a classic crème brûlée that’s equal parts sweet silk and light as air. Good things come in simple packages and Italian cuisine is one of those gems that’s stood the test of time – fresh and uncomplicated, with the natural flavours of the ingredients all the seasoning you need. And if you can’t hop that flight to Sicily then you’ll at least know that Olive Oil’s got you covered on any given Tuesday. n

Toppings galore at Olive Oil's build-yourown-bruschetta bar

OLIVE OIL RESTAURANT Location: 1st floor, City Centre Rotana Timings: • 6:30 a.m. till 10:30 a.m., breakfast • 12:30 p.m. till 3:00 p.m., lunch • 6:30 p.m. till 10:30 p.m., dinner Average Meal Price: • QR 119, Sicilian Night promotion with soft drinks • QR 169, Sicilian Night promotion with house beverages

Seafood pappardelle in a rich spicy tomato sauce

Licensed: Yes Smoking: Yes, outside the restaurant reception Contact Info: Call 4445-8888, or email fb.citycentre@rotana.com.

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FOOD & DINING

Succulent paccheriai frutti di mare at Di Capri

As told to Marisela Paesano Selected photography by Jessie Palanca

We bring you the 2016 winners of the Ospitalità Italiana Diplomas, as Doha honours the best Italian cuisine the city has to offer during a prestigious culinary ceremony hosted by the Italian Chamber of Commerce in Qatar at the official residence of the Italian Ambassador.

he Ospitalità Italiana project was launched by the Italian government and bestowed upon those restaurants abroad who guarantee typical quality standards of Italian hospitality. Only the best of the best Italian eateries around the world are awarded with an Ospitalità Italiana diploma and there are currently nearly 1,000 restaurants worldwide that bear this prestigious title of authenticity. This year, the Italian Chamber of Commerce in Qatar brought this international project to Doha for the first time. “We’ve personally visited all of the restaurants to verify the use of original Italian ingredients, the authentic ambience, the chef’s credentials and more,” Palma Libotte, Chairperson of the Italian Chamber of Commerce in Qatar shares with us. “We followed a very meticulous protocol set by the Italian governmental bodies such as Unioncamere, the Ministry of Foreign Development, and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to identify the authentic Italian features required to obtain the Ospitalità Italiana Plaque and Diploma 2016.” “The restaurants awarded understand the essence of true Italian hospitality in Qatar and are a crucial gateway to promoting the culture of Made in Italy”

Antica Pesa Doha at Marsa Malaz Kempinski

she continues. The international guidelines to evaluate the quality of each restaurant were based on ten important aspects: 1. Identity and Italian distinctiveness 2. Reception 3. Mise en place 4. Kitchen 5. Menu 6. Gourmet offer 7. Grape list (if applicable) 8. Extra virgin olive oil 9. Experience and competence 10. IGP (Indicazione Geografica Protteta) and DOP (Denominazione de origene prottet) products The Ospitalità Italiana Diplomas were awarded by Italian Ambassador to Qatar, H.E. Mr. Guido

De Sanctis, in an official ceremony for nine Italian restaurants in Doha: Antica Pesa, Di Capri, Porcini, La Spiga by Paper Moon, Cucina, Paper Moon, Italia Mia, La Piazza, and Carluccio’s. Antica Pesa: Four generations of the same family have run this Roman restaurant and, today, Antica Pesa is a consolidated reality in the Italian restaurant scene. Their dishes have been created following two fundamental guidelines: re-working traditional recipes from Roman cuisine and working with local products that are usually organic; everything is seasonal, with a nod to modern trends. After Rome and Williamsburg, New York, Antica Pesa came to Doha to redefine the Italian culinary scene of the city. Antica Pesa is located at the gardens of the island of Marsa Malaz Kempinski.

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Di Capri: A contemporary dining restaurant elegantly crafted to reflect the Italian spirit with a vibrant live cooking kitchen, and offering a wide variety of signature cuisine stamped by the gastronomic touch of their talented Italian Chef. Di Capri is located in La Cigale Hotel. A wood-fired pizza goes into the oven at Cucina

Italian spinach omelette at La Spiga by Paper Moon

Porcini: Their open show-kitchen is framed in hand-painted mosaic tiles, while the authentic flavours burst through their regional offerings of quintessential Italy. Take a Mediterranean culinary journey at Porcini Restaurant in The Ritz-Carlton.

Porcini at The Ritz-Carlton

Cucina

La Spiga by Paper Moon: Experience authentic Italian cuisine where vibrant design and a sophisticated scene set the tone for an extraordinary dining experience. La Spiga by Paper Moon is located at the W Doha. Cucina: Is an authentic trattoria Italiana serving fresh and flavorful favourites – just like you’d find in the heart of every Italian home – simple and authentic dishes. The restaurant is located at Marriott Marquis City Center, Level 2.

Porcini's signatre tiramisu

Paper Moon: Paper Moon Doha is conveniently located on the first floor of the iconic new Jaidah Square Building on Al Matar Street. This legendary Italian restaurant brand delivers a fashionable, relaxed ambiance and luscious, authentic Italian fare by using the freshest seasonal ingredients.

La Spiga by Paper Moon at the W Doha

Italia Mia: This family-owned restaurant can be found in the heart of Souq Waqif. A traditional Italian restaurant with a nice atmosphere, the menu offers delicious homemade pasta dishes, authentic Italian pizza, or just a place to grab a refreshing mocktail and sweets.

Grilled lamb chops at Antica Pesa Doha

La Piazza: Visit La Piazza and dine like the Italians, lingering for hours at tables in the courtyard under a magnificent stained glass atrium. Feast on courses of gourmet goodies: antipasto and fresh salads adorned with bresaola, homemade pastas or pizzas, and succulent roast lamb. La Piazza is located at Al Bidda Boutique Hotel Souq Waqif.

Di Capri at La Cigale

Carluccio’s: At Carluccio's cafè the aim is to provide great quality, authentic Italian food at sensible prices. The franchise restaurant does the best to create a memorable experience in a happy, bustling environment. Carluccio’s is located at The Pearl-Qatar. n OSPITALITÀ ITALIANA PLAQUES AROUND THE GLOBE

Rich risotto alla Certosina at Paper Moon

• U.S.A.: New York 138, Miami 36, Chicago 30, Los Angeles 18 • Mexico: Mexico City 24 • Brazil: Sao Paulo 78, Rio de Janeiro 32 • United Kingdom: London 51, Edinburgh 8 • Germany: Munich 28, Berlin 22 • France: Paris 28 • Spain: Madrid 22, Barcelona 20 • United Arab Emirates: Dubai 33, Abu Dhabi 6 • Thailand: Bangkok 27 • Singapore: Singapore 44 • Russia: Moscow 39 • China: Hong Kong 34, Shanghai 33, Beijing 23 • Japan: Tokyo 68 • Australia: Sydney 43, Melbourne 26, Brisbane 6

Paper Moon Doha

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FOOD & DINING

My Armenian Kitchen Rolled Chicken Letsvadz Ingredients: • 1 whole chicken • 8 onions • 2 cups bulgur • 1 cup apricots • 1 piece orange • 1 cup pine nuts • 1 cup walnuts, chopped • 3 Tbsp oil • 3 Tbsp butter • 100gms dill • 3 Tbsp vinegar • 3 Tbsp ghee • Salt, pepper and seven spices

Photography by Jessie Palanca

Chicken isn’t your average protein when it’s done Armenian-style as Mamig and Aziza restaurants’ Chef Zarmig shows us with a traditional recipe for rolled letsvadz that’s all savour and no sweat.

Directions: • Cut the whole chicken into filets and carefully remove the bones. • Peel and slice the onions. Mix with bulgur, pine nuts, chopped apricots, orange, walnuts, oil, butter, dill, vinegar, salt, pepper and seven spices. • Stuff the chicken filets with the above mixture and roll each piece. • Put the chicken rolls on a baking tray, drizzle with ghee and bake in the oven for 20-25 minutes at 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 Celsius), or until cooked through. • Decorate with lemon slices, broccoli florets and sprigs of dill and serve. n

Chef Zarmig showing us how its done

For more information on the restaurants of Chef Zarmig, visit www.mamigdoha.com and www.azizadoha.com.

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FOOD & DINING A seafood jamboree

Word Of Mouth Photography by Jessie Palanca

This column is part of a monthly contest where we send one of our readers to experience a meal in a restaurant. It’s our way of giving the community a voice in our pages. This month Francis De Salema casts his line at Seasons Restaurant in the Mövenpick Hotel Doha for their weekly Seafood Night. Here is his review.

• Prawn Tempura: The classic ultra-light batter is perfect with prawns for a light snack. • Mixed Seafood Soup: The perfect blend of salt and spices with a variety of seafood delicacies. • Rigatoni Primavera With Chicken: Pasta with fresh herbs, vegetables and seasoned chicken.

Buffet • Seafood and sushi were dominant at the dinner buffet, while pasta prepared by Chef Edward was made to perfection. [It was a] lavish spread ranging from salads, live sushi stations, and variety of fish made to order as per your taste and heart’s desire.

QH: What did you order?

Desserts • Fresh fruit salad, lemon-mint pudding, chocolate mousse and an assortment of pastries.

FDS: We ordered…

QH: Were the prices reasonable?

À la carte • Cobb Salad: Garden salad made from chopped salad greens, chicken ham, roasted (but not fried) chicken breast, hard-boiled egg, avocado, chives, Roquefort cheese, and a red vino vinaigrette with a sprinkle of black olives.

FDS: The beverage prices were a little on the higher side; nevertheless, considering the concept of a seafood menu, I would consider Seasons as a much preferred seafood restaurant – taking into consideration the seafood offerings in and around Doha. Good food with prices to match.

QH: Describe the ambiance.

FDS: The bright ambiance instantly lifted our mood – it was very nice. If you’re a couple, it’s naturally a place for intimate dining, especially since the place is nice and quiet…inviting you to have a conversation without having to shout. Also the colour combination of the restaurant is predominantly red, which helps set the mood and build an appetite. It also seems to be a nice restaurant to eat in when you're with family and friends – or a great place to have business dinners. The entrance to the restaurant and the parking area is old school and the driveway to the hotel at the entrance may need a face-lift. Having said that, ample parking is available without having to walk miles. QH: Describe the quality of the food. FDS: Healthy, healthy and very healthy! The preparation of our food order was clearly done keeping the health of the individual in mind. The whole tempo of the buffet was to provide fresh, healthy food. This was obvious from the fact that there were five or six varieties of salads. The food was mostly either grilled or baked. The pasta

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having my daily meals. Dinner at Seasons stresses the fact that eating healthy doesn’t necessarily mean the food has to be bland and tasteless. Also, equally as impressive, was the preparation of the seafood soup and mouth-watering pasta.

Word of Mouth winner Francis De Salema (left)

QH: Favourite thing about the restaurant?

Seasons Restaurant has a light and airy feel that will put you at ease

FDS: The variety of salads on offer and the high standards of healthy food on display – all this very suitably priced considering the competition. The quantity of the food served was consistent and plentiful. QH: Least favourite thing about the restaurant? FDS: The fact that the restaurant is not very widely publicized and advertised. It’s a hidden gem in the sea of food options that would do so much more justice with some word of mouth. QH: Was there a special touch or flair to the experience? FDS: Our experience was indeed special; the staff is friendly and efficient and their positive attitude made our experience a special one. Not only did we have good food, but we made some friends along [the way] as well. The restaurant was not overly commercial and its personal flavour set the tone for the evening.

preparation was light and not heavily laden with sauces, with herbs and spices playing the dominant role. The grilled fish was made to perfection and was nicely spiced. We were so pleasantly surprised at the quality and variety of sushi [on offer]. There was also a fabulous cheese section which complimented our house beverages very nicely. Having a fruit salad bowl with almost every fruit available in the country helped keep the palate fresh. The food itself is impressively fresh, well-presented and clearly made by high-class chefs who love their work.

service was quick, efficient and very friendly. So much so, that when I wasn’t able to properly communicate with the initial waiter (language problem –from my side), they had it arranged for another waiter from my country to serve our table to ensure I had a positive experience. Chef Edward was very delightful and the staff is willing to go out of their way to ensure all our needs were met. Our table was waited on to perfection – the staff is always there when we wanted them and not overly-present to be a bother. A fine balance was maintained throughout.

QH: Describe the quality of the service. QH: Would you go back? Why/why not? FDS: We were greeted by everyone on our arrival and made to feel welcome. Also, having our reservation re-confirmed by the restaurant manager prior to our arrival added a personal touch. The

FDS: Definitely I would go back –and this time take my entire family. Eating at the restaurant has had an impact on the way I would go about

QH: Could the overall experience be improved? If so, how? FDS: The only thing I found missing was [some] nice, soft music playing in the background – that can be added as a point for improvement. The setup for live music was present, but not functioning—which was a mild setback. n For more information on Seasons Restaurant at the Mövenpick Hotel Doha call 4429-1138.

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

MAMIG

Five Years Of Gastronomic Excellence By Antony D. Antoniou Images courtesy of Mamig Restaurant

Mamig restaurant which is a fusion of Lebanese and Armenian cooking is turning five next month. QH thinks birthday wishes are in order.

ocated in the heart of Katara Cultural Village and overlooking the serene Arabian Gulf, Mamig has become a favourite spot for expats and locals looking for authentic cooking.

Mamig, means ‘grandmother’ in Armenian and hints at what to expect, wholesome, honest and delicious food. The menu offers traditional Armenian dishes and Lebanese staples that will tantalize your palette and fill your belly. QH spoke with Mamig’s celebrity Chef, Ms. Zarmig Halladjian about this milestone. QH: So, time really does fly when you’re having fun, right? ZH: It’s true, five years have passed very quickly, it’s easy to say but hard to describe. It has been a great venture and has resulted in the restaurant becoming a firm favourite with locals and the residents of Doha. I personally have really enjoyed the experience. QH: They say running a kitchen can be super tough, what’s the secret? ZH: Everything revolves around time in the restaurant business; customers shouldn’t be made to wait too long for their meals. They are the number one priority. Here at Mamig we are one big family, are main concerns are the quality of the food, and the dining experience of our clients.

Chef, Ms. Zarmig Halladjian

Cooking everything with mindfulness and respect, leads to amazing results, so here at Mamig we cook with passion. The satisfaction of our valued guests is our main concern; we thank them for their continuous and loyal support. For bookings please call: 4408-0800 or visit www.mamigdoha.com. n

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FOOD & DINING

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

QH RECOMMENDS

THE GRAND HYATT Swiss Gastronomic Brunch

May 6: The Grill. Part of the Swiss week promotion, enjoy a Swiss brunch on May 6 with a live cooking station and buffet brunch. QR 305 for soft beverages, QR 420 for house beverages, QR 430 for special beverage package, and QR 850 including premium beverages. From 12:30 p.m. until 3:30 p.m. For more information call 4448-1272, or 7021-8096.

DJ Hughie Brunch

May 13: The Grill. The Grill invites you to a very special brunch with legendary DJ Hughie, specially flown in from London to play some funk and disco on May 13. QR 305 for the soft beverage package, QR 420 including house beverages, QR 430 for a special beverage package and QR 850 for the special brunch. For more information call 4448-1240, or 7798-2400.

SHERATON GRAND DOHA Cinco de Mayo

Single Malt Festival

May 5 & 6: Latino Steakhouse. Experience a festive Cinco de Mayo and join in the celebrations with their enriched a la carte menu and live entertainment. From 8:00 p.m. till 11:30 p.m. For more information call 4485-3000.

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

SPECIAL PROMOTIONS BANANA ISLAND RESORT DOHA BY ANANTARA The Magic Of Moroccan Cuisine

May 4-14: Q Lounge Restaurant. The Guinness Book of World Records-recognized Chef Hassan Bouhout delves into his unique blend of flavours, exploring local Moroccan gastronomy with his authentic recipes. Tantalize your taste-buds at Q Lounge Restaurant with this array of delicious dishes. For more information call 4040-5050.

CITY CENTRE ROTANA National Burger Month

Daily: Boston’s. Why have anything else when you can have a juicy Boston’s burger? Satiate your cravings with a succulent burger oozing with flavourful goodness that will entice you to take one bite after another. Take your pick from a variety including the classic cheeseburger, BBQ beef burger, Wagyu beef burger and salmon burger. For more information call 4445-8888, or email to fb.citycentre@rotana.com.

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA THE CITY Be Part Of The Club

May 2: Prime. Every first Monday of the month, come to their monthly Prime Club and experience their Chef’s Table with a menu designed by Chef de Cuisine Morad Benmchich. Dont miss out, as only 14 lucky guests will have the privilege of joining. The six-course set menu is perfectly paired with grapes for QR 900, or enjoy six coursed without pairing for QR 650. From 6:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4015-8888.

Cheese & Grapes Night

May 9: Prime. Join their monthly cheese and house beverage experience at just QR 129 for all-youcan-enjoy cheese from their largest cheese bar, or QR 199 for all-you-can-enjoy cheese and three glasses of grapes. From 6:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4015-8888.

MARRIOTT MARQUIS CITY CENTER DOHA Festa della Repubblica

May 26-June 2: Cucina invites all its patrons to partake in a seven-day Italian celebration for Italy’s National Day traditionally known as ‘Festa della Repubblica’. For more information call 4419-5000.

SHANGRI-LA HOTEL DOHA Caviar Special

May 1-15: Yabby. Visit Yabby restaurant and enjoy special prices with a more than 50% discount on selected caviar from QR 258. For more information call 4429-5295.

May 18 & 19: The Grill. At Grand Hyatt Doha, every visit is nothing short of extraordinary. The Grill invites Doha residents to take part in the city’s first single malt event with a single malt set-menu dinner on at The Grill. From 7:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. For more information call 4448-1240.

THE FOUR SEASONS Nobu 1st Year Anniversary Special

All-month: Nobu Doha will usher in its first anniversary celebration with a special menu and offers for the entire month of May. Nobu Doha Head Chef Andrew Bozoki will prepare an exceptional six-course Omakase menu. The menu includes shrimp and lobster mushroom salad with yuzu dressing, A7 Wagyu beef with goma cauliflower mousse, teriyaki jus and king crab ratatouille ponzu. Guests will also have an opportunity to win a Nobu cookbook signed by Chef Nobu Matsuhisa upon ordering the anniversary menu. Kicking off the celebration on May 1, the restaurant will also be offering a complimentary glass of selected beverage to every guest dining in the main dining room. QR 450 per person. For more information call 4494-8600, or email dining.doh@fourseasons.com.

REGULAR PROMOTIONS CHOWKING Indo-Chinese Menu & Value Meals

Daily: Tuck into new flavours at Chowking with their tasty Indo-Chinese menu. Also, enjoy dinner for two for QR 70 (QR 80 including soft drinks). Available at all restaurant locations, serving quality Asian fare at the best prices. For more information call delivery hotline: 4431-1212, Mamoura: 4486-6077, Al Khor: 4411-8816/17, Salwa Road: 4437-1212, Holiday Villa Hotel: 4411-5225/5335.

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CITY CENTRE ROTANA Olive Oil Dinner

All week (except Thurs & Sat): Olive Oil. Enjoy the restaurant’s international buffet dinner selections for QR 119, soft drinks included. For more information call 4445-8888, or email fb.citycentre@rotana.com.

Fisherman’s Night

Thursdays: Olive Oil. Dive into a fantastic array of seafood delights that the ocean has to offer. An unmatched spread of the finest oysters, mussels, shrimps and many more exquisite delicacies await, including ceviche and a tartar station. QR 235 inclusive of soft drinks, and QR 299 inclusive of selected house beverages. From 7:00 p.m. till 11:30 p.m. For more information call 4445-8888, or email fb.citycentre@rotana.com.

Business Lunch

Daily: Caramel Lounge. Break time has never been this exciting... If you need a boost of energy and a relaxing atmosphere at the same time, the Caramel Business Lunch is the ideal solution for hardworking professionals. They know that time is precious so they’ve designed a perfect menu, a 30-minute express lunch for QR 70 including pasta, sandwich and a decadent pastry selection. Take some time out from your demanding business schedule, or hold talks in an atmosphere of comfort and style. For more information call 4445-8888, or email to fb.citycentre@rotana.com.

DOHA MARRIOTT Steak Happy Hour

Daily: JW’s Steakhouse. Introducing the one and only Steak Happy Hour where you can enjoy 20% off all steaks from 6:30 p.m. till 8:00 p.m. daily. Appreciate the finest cuts of U.S.-certified prime Angus beef along with their selection of mouth-watering side dishes. Keep your eyes peeled for the upcoming Canadian lobster promotion at JW’s Steakhouse throughout April. For more information call 4429-8499.

Street Food

Thursdays: Restaurant Gallery. Thursday nights just got a whole lot better at Doha Marriott’s new street food offering. Enjoy a selection of your favourite street foods from India, Southeast Asia, Mexico and plenty more at only QR 335 per person including unlimited beverages. Let the sizzle and aroma of the hotel’s live cooking stations entice your senses, and bring back fond travel memories of far-off places. For more information call 4429-8499.

Friday Brunch

Fridays: Restaurant Gallery. A culinary journey like no other, discover a range of live stations and specialties from the Restaurant Gallery, with famous 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 kid’s club zone with a special buffet and activities. QR 270 with soft drinks and QR 375 including house beverages. From 12:30 p.m. till 4:00 p.m. For more information call 4429-8499.

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FOOD & DINING GRAND HERITAGE DOHA Business Lunch

Daily: Agora. A business lunch for discerning professionals, enjoy a three-course set menu meal with one soft beverage for just QR 99. Open from 1:00 p.m. till 4:00 p.m. For more information call 4445-5555.

Anatolian Table

Sun & Wed: Agora. Dig in to scrumptious Turkish flavours with the Anatolian Table at Agora. Enjoy a special three-course set menu with one soft drink and Turkish tea or coffee for QR 149. From 12:30 p.m. till 11:30 p.m. For more information call 4445-5555.

Sushi & Steak

Saturdays: Blue. Treat yourself to an experience like never before. With a succulent combination of sushi and steak, be sure to get the best of both worlds only at Blue – all from just QR 215. From 12:30 p.m. till 12:00 midnight. For more information call 4445-5555.

All-You-Can Eat Sushi & Teppanyaki Buffet

Fridays: Blue. Be sure to make room for a Japanese food feast. The land of the rising sun is famous for its culinary fare and at QR 199 you get value for money, including water and soft beverages. From 12:30 p.m. till 4:00 p.m. For more information call 4445-5555.

HOLIDAY VILLA BBQ-Themed Buffet Dinner

Thurs & Fri: Lagenda. Indulge in an al fresco BBQ-themed dinner where you can enjoy a hot Mexican fiesta, or the smoking Hawaiian grill. From 7:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4408-4220, or visit www.holidayvilladoha.com.

Dim Sum & Japanese Brunch Fridays: D’Chopstix. Enhance your weekend with inspiring dim sum flavours. Discover and savour your favourites with innumerable choices. From 11:30 a.m. till 3:00 p.m. For more information call 4408-4230, or visit www.holidayvilladoha.com.

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA Meat & More

Sundays: Mykonos. Enjoy an extraordinary Greek dining experience complemented by a selection of mixed dips and salads, some rustic Greek favourites and end up with some magnificent homemade desserts. QR 150 per person. From 6:30 p.m. till 10:30 p.m. For more information call 4484-4919, or 4484-4444.

Daily Theme Nights

Daily: Coral All-Day Dining. With its spectacular views of the pool and sea and an ambient atmosphere, Coral All-Day Dining offers cuisine from around the world infused with healthy menu options and live cooking stations. Experience international theme nights every day, like Monday Bohemian Night. QR 225 with one house beverage. From 4:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. on Sundays to Thursdays, and from 6:00 p.m. till midnight on Fridays and Saturdays. For more information call 4484-4919, or 4484-4444.

Listings INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA THE CITY Al Jasa Garden Lounge Express Lunch Daily: Al Jalsa. Join in for an express lunch and shisha at the city’s modern garden. QR 99 inclusive of food and single-flavour shisha. From 12 :00 p.m.to 3:00 p.m. For more information call 4015-8888, or email doharestaurants@ihg.com.

Daily Theme Nights

Express Business Lunch by Aroma

Sat-Thurs: Aroma. Experience the new express business lunch menu, brought to you by the Executive Chef Vinon Yergu. Aroma offers a creative two or three-course menu by using fresh and locally-farmed ingredients, all served within 45 minutes. From 12:00 p.m. till 4:00 p.m. For more information call 4405-3325, email restaurants.doha@kempinski.com, or visit www.kempinski.com/doha.

Daily: The Square. Every night features live stations preparing dishes a la minute and divine dessert selections. Experience the International theme on Friday/Saturday and Sunday, and an Indian theme on Mondays. QR 180 excluding beverages, or QR 290 inclusive of unlimited selected house beverages. From 12:30 p.m. till 4:00 p.m. For more information call 4015-8888, or email doharestaurants@ihg.com.

Chef's Table

Cosmopolitan Thursdays

Camel Burger Frenzy!

Seafood Night

LA CIGALE International Cuisine

Thursdays: The Square. Celebrate the beginning of the weekend with friends over dinner and refreshments. Enjoy popular international dishes on the buffet from 6:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. along with your favourite house beverages. Priced at QR 255 with soft drinks, QR 355 with selected house beverages, or QR 390 with special house beverages. For more information call 4015-8888, or email doharestaurants@ihg.com.

Wednesdays: The Square. Delicious locallysourced seafood is on offer from 6:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. Cold seafood salads, fresh seafood cooked à la minute at the live cooking stations, and an enviable dessert station will make it a night to remember. Priced at QR 255 with soft drinks, QR 355 with house beverages, and QR 390 with special house beverages. For more information call 4015-8888, or email doharestaurants@ihg.com.

KEMPINSKI RESIDENCES & SUITES European Brunch Fridays: Aroma. Pamper yourself at a boutique, contemporary European brunch buffet selection. On offer is a variety of breakfast classics, salads and starters, along with roasts and main courses, topped off with delicious sweet treats. Children can enjoy fun activities and a special mini-buffet corner. QR 195 per person including soft beverages, or QR 300 per person, including selected beverages. For more information call 4405-3325, email restaurants.doha@kempinski.com, or visit www.kempinski.com/doha.

Ladies Breakfast

Sun-Thurs: Aroma. Ladies can enjoy the Kempinski breakfast buffet at Aroma for only QR 75 per person on weekdays from 9:00 a.m. till 11:00 a.m. For more information call 4405-3325, email restaurants.doha@kempinski.com, or visit www.kempinski.com/doha.

Saturdays: Aroma. Join a theatrical performance from the culinary team as they create art right in front of your dining table. A themed surprise menu for six is available every Saturday with prior reservation and 48 hours’ notice. Tailored menus starting from QR 385 per person. From 7:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4405-3325, email restaurants.doha@kempinski.com, or visit www.kempinski.com/doha.

Mondays: Aroma. Seasoned to perfection and cooked to your desire, come and enjoy a selection of the finest Camel Burger Frenzy Doha has ever seen, along with a selection of beverages and desserts. QR 120 per person including a selected beverage. From 7:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4405- 3325, email restaurants.doha@kempinski.com, or visit www.kempinski.com/doha.

Daily: Le Cigalon. Treat yourself to an extravagant buffet breakfast, lunch and dinner, an a la carte option is also available. Buffet breakfast is QR 130 and buffet lunch or dinner with live-cooking stations is QR 220 inclusive of American coffee or tea. From 6:30 a.m. till 11:30 p.m. For more information call 4428-8698.

Sushi Mania

Daily: Yen Sushi Bar. Partake in the best sushi and sashimi served on a special rotating belt with colour-coded plates, or choose from the a la carte menu. From 11:30 a.m. till 12:00 midnight. For more information call 4428-8698.

MARRIOTT MARQUIS CITY CENTER DOHA Sunday Crossroasts

Sundays: Crossroads Kitchen. Relish the traditional British roasts with Yorkshire pudding and begin the work week with a jump-start. Traditional British Sunday brunch buffet with a selection of three roasts starting from QR 210. From 6:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4419-6100, or visit www.marriottmarquisdohadining.com.

Brunch & Tunes

Fridays: Crossroads Kitchen. Start your weekend right with live tunes, and an interactive international brunch buffet and activities to keep kids busy. Prices start from QR 245. From 12:30 noon till 3:30 p.m. For more information call 4419-6100, or visit www.marriottmarquisdohadining.com.

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FOOD & DINING Sweet &Savoury Crêpes

Daily: Quick Bites. Enjoy the down-right yumminess of French cooking with this delectable sweet treat. Choose from the finest selection of sweet and savoury crêpes at Quick Bites for just QR 40. From 5:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4419-6100 or visit www.marriottmarquisdohadining.com.

Three Countries, One Platter

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

MARSA MALAZ KEMPINSKI Burger Mania

Wednesdays: Sawa. Calling all burger-lovers in Doha! To help you get through the week go to Sawa for the tastiest burger menu. QR 100 for a tantalizing burger and a selected beverage. From 6:00 p.m. till 10:30 p.m. For more information call 4035-5011, email restaurants.marsamalaz@kempinski.com, or visit www.kempinski.com/marsamalaz.

La Pizza Mondays

Mondays: Sawa. Enjoy an evening of freshly-baked thin and crispy authentic pizzas in Sawa. Make sure to taste Doha's latest addiction. QR 100 for authentic pizza with your favourite toppings and a selected beverage. From 6:00 p.m. till 10:30 p.m. For more information call 4035- 5011, email restaurants.marsamalaz@kempinski.com, or visit www.kempinski.com/marsamalaz.

Weekend Brunch Collection Family Late Brunch

Thursdays: Sawa. Start the weekend with your family at the Thursday Family Late Brunch in Sawa. Indulge in live cooking stations and if you enjoy the finer things in life, they’ll upgrade you to the unlimited Wagyu experience, with at least eight cuts of only the best Australian Wagyu meat in the city. QR 225 per person including soft beverages, or QR 425 per person including Wagyu meat and soft beverages. For more information 4035-5011, email restaurants.marsamalaz@kempinski.com, or visit www.kempinski.com/marsamalaz.

Friday Brunch Sawa. Make merry on the weekend with the only five-star brunch experience on The Pearl. Enjoy live cooking stations around the restaurant and its terraces, showcasing signature delicacies from around the world. A large selection of appetizers, main courses, grilled meat and seafood, oysters, sushi and more, paired with great beverages, outstanding live entertainment and authentic service. A mini-corner is available for the younger guests. QR 330 per person including soft beverages, or QR 425 per person including house beverages. From 12:30 noon till 4:00 p.m. For more information call 4035-5011, email restaurants.marsamalaz@kempinski.com, or visit www.kempinski.com/marsamalaz.

Listings Seafood Brunch

Saturdays: Sawa. Savour a premium array of fresh seafood delicacies. Spoil yourself with Gulf king prawns, mussels, lobsters, crabs, oysters and their unbeatable selection of sushi. Finish your meal with a visit to the sumptuous dessert buffet. QR 330 per person including soft beverages. From 12:30 p.m. till 4:00 p.m. For more information call 4035-5011, email restaurants.marsamalaz@kempinski.com, or visit www.kempinski.com/marsamalaz.

Spanish Brunch

Saturdays: El Faro. Bienvenido a España! Indulge in a casual Saturday afternoon à la carte brunch with an array of authentic tapas and starters, an unlimited choice of paella, delicious desserts and great live music. Continue the fiesta with the Hora Feliz one-for-one offer, starting at 3:30 p.m. QR 240 per person including soft beverages, or QR 380 per person with special Spanish beverages. From 12:30 noon till 3:30 p.m. For more information call 4035-5011, email restaurants.marsamalaz@kempinski.com, or visit www.kempinski.com/marsamalaz.

MÖVENPICK HOTEL DOHA The Great Sunday Roast

Sundays: Seasons. Seasons honours the age-old family tradition of the hearty Sunday roast dinner. Bring the whole family and tuck into a rich buffet filled with your homemade favourites, from roast beef, to Yorkshire pudding with gravy so good it will transport you back to the good-old days. QR 160 per person. Add QR 65 for an additional three refreshments or two glasses of house beverage. For more information call 4429-1138.

Taste The World

Mon & Tues: Seasons. Dip into a colourful collection of international creations. Each week Mövenpick Doha’s talented chefs draw inspiration from many cultural cuisines to present a wide variety of authentic flavours and aromas from around the world. You’ll be spoiled for choice while exploring dishes from Asia, Europe, the Middle East and so much more. QR 150 per person including three refreshments or two glasses of house beverage. For more information call 4429-1138.

Jazz Marché Brunch

Fridays: Seasons. Inspired by the popular Marché theme, Seasons boasts an extravagant market-like concept with a variety of creative live cooking stalls using only the freshest and most wholesome ingredients. Expect premiumquality selections of cheeses, roasts, sushi and desserts, not to mention a dedicated station offering a special beverage-of-the-day. Their live jazz band adds to the chilled-out vibe to ease you into the weekend. Kids can go crazy in their very own Kids Kingdom with a special kids’ buffet, face-painting, bouncy castle, games and much more. QR 200 per person. Add QR 30 for soft beverages, or QR 75 for special refreshments. For more information call 4429-1138.

NOZOMI DOHA Lunch Menu

Sun-Thurs: Katsu curry was introduced to Japan in 1868 by the British, and this staple of Anglo-Nippon food history is now available for QR 80 at Nozomi Doha’s new lunch menu. Open from 12:00 noon till 4:00 p.m. Casual dress and families welcome. For more information call 4035-5089, or email info@nozomidoha.com.

Tsukuyomi Friday Brunch Buffet

Fridays: Nozomi welcomes you to Doha's most premium sushi brunch! Peruse the constantly changing sushi island for all its sheer indulgence. Nozomi Doha will create an unparalleled refreshing sushi experience for you. You’ll also be able to select from their hot dumplings, warm kushi skewers before making your way to their dezato table, for all your sweet delights. From 12:00 noon till 4:00 p.m. QR 320 with soft beverages, or QR 375 with house beverages. For more information call 4035-5089, or email info@nozomidoha.com.

ORYX ROTANA Choices Surf & Turf Night

Mondays: Choices. Check out the sumptuous selection featuring a wide variety of seafood and meat dishes served in an open buffet or prepared to your liking by the chefs at live cooking stations. Packages start from QR 270 per person for food only, QR 360 including unlimited selected house beverages. Better yet, try Choices’ premium package for QR 390 including unlimited special selected refreshments. Children aged six to 11 dine for QR 140. For more information call 4402-3333.

X'Press Lunch & Dinner

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

Tapas Galore Selection

Sat &Tue: The Cellar. Enjoy the tantalizing tapas with unlimited sommelier's selection for only QR 300 per person, or QR 160 per person for food only. For more information call 4402-3333.

SHANGRI-LA HOTEL DOHA Business Lunch

Weekdays: Yabby. Dive into a selection of the freshest catch and get hooked on the yabby-licious creations at QR 85 for a two-course lunch menu, or QR 95 for a three-course menu from 12:00 noon till 3:00 p.m. on weekdays. For more information call 4429-5295.

Buffet Lunch

Sat-Thurs: Sridan. Enjoy your lunch break with ten live stations featuring authentic cuisine from the Middle East and across the globe for QR 99 per person. Starts from 12:00 noon to 3:00 p.m. For more information call 4429-5295.

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FOOD & DINING Lobster Friday Brunch

Fridays: Yabby. To all lobsters’ fans, Yabby has a new lobster Friday brunch. Experience the first adults-only Friday brunch in Doha from 12:00 noon to 3:30 p.m. for just QR 320 including soft drinks, or QR 440 including premium refreshments. Guests who book online will enjoy get 25% off. For more information call 4429-5295.

Ibn Battuta Friday Brunch

Fridays: Sridan. Follow in the footsteps of the legendary Arabian explorer Ibn Battuta and enjoy ten live-action stations from around the world and live entertainment for QR 285 with soft drinks, or QR 385 with premium beverages at Sridan. From 12:30 p.m. till 4:00 p.m. For more information call 4429-5295.

Seafood Buffet

Thurs & Fri: Sridan. Enjoy a seafood night with ten open kitchens for QR 210 in an authentic Arabian souq atmosphere. From 6:30 p.m. till 10:30 p.m. For more information call 4429-5295.

SHERATON GRAND DOHA Seafood Night

Wed & Thurs: Al Hubara. Enjoy a sumptuous seafood experience at their all-day dining restaurant with a lavish buffet selection. The food is prepared with the finest and freshest ingredients to tantalize your taste-buds. QR 295 per person inclusive of soft drinks, or QR 395 per person with Top-Up package including selected beverages. Kids between the ages of six to 12-years-old receive a 50% discount, while children under the age of six dine for free. From 7:00 p.m. till 11:30 p.m. For more information call 4485-3000, email F&Breservations.Doha@sheraton.com, or visit www.alhubararestaurant.com.

International Brunch

Fridays: Al Hubara. Spend quality time with your loved ones while dining and enjoying an array of international specialties at their all-day dining restaurant. QR 315 per person inclusive of soft drinks, or QR 415 per person with their special Top-Up package. Kids between the ages of six to 12-years-old receive a 50% discount, while children under the age of six dine for free. From 12:30 p.m. till 4:00 p.m. For more information call 4485-3000, email F&Breservations.Doha@sheraton.com, or visit www.alhubararestaurant.com.

Listings Express Lunch

Sat-Thurs: Elements. The go-to restaurant for your week-day buffet lunch or express lunch! Experience a delicious range of four different cuisines, Asian, seafood, Arabic and Indian. You will certainly satisfy your palate. In a hurry? Try their express lunch set-menu which includes a two-course menu option or three-course menu. Buffet lunch is QR 175 per person including water. Express lunch is QR 85 per person for a two-course menu, or QR 95 per person for a three-course menu. From 12:00 noon till 3:00 p.m. For more information call 4494-8600, or email dining.doh@fourseasons.com.

Kanpai At Nobu

Daily: Nobu Doha. Sip, savour and enjoy happy hour with a selection of Nobu’s specialty dishes and signature sips, at special prices. From 6:00 p.m. till 8:00 p.m. For more information call 4494-8631.

THE GRAND HYATT Ora dell' Aperitivo

Sat-Wed: Rocca. From 5:00 p.m. till 8:00 p.m. enjoy a taste of Italy. Rocca will serve you a selection of beverages and small Italian bites at a reduced price, starting at QR 25. Included is your first beverage of your choice. For more information call 4448-1272, or 7021-8096.

Friday Brunch The Grill. This sumptuous eatery offers different brunch packages starting at QR 299 for soft beverages, QR 399 for house beverages, and QR 850 including premium beverages. For more information call 4448-1240, or 7798-2400.

Curry Nights

Mondays: Isaan. The Thai restaurant offers an all-you-can-eat curry night. From 7:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m., you can order a variety of unlimited curries to share, with your choice of fish, beef, chicken, mussels or vegetables. You can share up to five curries per round, for only QR 95 per person. For more information call 7021-8097.

Chatuchak Weekend Market Brunch

Tuesdays: La Veranda. Tantalize your Tuesday nights with a perfect blend of unlimited classic Italian pizzas and pastas, complimented with excellent jazz music to stir up your nights. QR 120 per person all-you-can-eat. From 7:00 p.m. till 11:30 p.m. For more information call 4485-3000.

Fridays: Isaan. Get an outstanding Thai Chatuchak Weekend Market experience with brunch from 12:30 p.m. till 4:00 p.m. Walk around and explore the colourful array of live cooking stations and market-like stalls. A range of options are available. Enjoy a soft drink brunch for QR 290, a house beverage package for QR 399, or a special brunch package for QR 850. For more information call 7021-8097.

THE FOUR SEASONS Nobu Brunch

THE ST. REGIS DOHA Burger & Pint Night

Pizzas, Pastas & Jazz

Fridays: Nobu Doha. The famous Japanese eatery is now offering an elite brunch with a wide selection of Nobu’s specialty dishes. Start the weekend with a sumptuous buffet from sushi stations to foie gras, oysters and the black cod with yuzu miso. Regular brunch at QR 355 and special brunch at QR 495. From 12:30 p.m. till 4:30 p.m. For more information call 4494-8631.

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

Chef’s Table

Daily: Astor Grill. Book the Chef’s Table, get up close to the Astor Grill culinary team and enjoy the theatre of the kitchen! Chefs will create a bespoke menu at QR 395 for three courses, or QR 595 with sommelier’s selection. For more information call 4446-0105, or email diningreservations@stregis.com.

BBQ Night

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

Trio Lunch

Mon-Thurs: Al Sultan Brahim. Enjoy a super trio lunch for QR 125 per person inclusive of food, shisha and soft drinks. From 12:00 noon till 4:30 p.m. For more information call 4446-0105, or email diningreservations@stregis.com.

THE FRENCH OLIVE Business Lunch

Sun-Fri: Enjoy a succulent two-course business lunch from 11:00 a.m. till 4:00 p.m. for QR 50, or three courses with coffee and beverages at QR 85. For more information call 4444-4777.

Pastry Happy Hour

Daily: Enjoy a happy hour on breads and breakfast pastries from 7:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4444-4777.

THE TORCH DOHA Chocolate Master Classes Mondays: Sky Lounge. Starting from 4:00 p.m. till 6:00 p.m., learn how to make chocolate. The class includes all-time favourite chocolate truffle preparation and signature chocolate fondant for QR 150. Price includes menu recipe, praline box and welcome refreshments. Advanced booking required. Maximum of eight people. For more information call 4446-5600, or email restaurant.reservations@thetorchdoha.com.

Prime Cuts & Fine Steaks Tue & Thurs: Three Sixty. Indulge in Chateaubriand steak roast sharing platters, T-bone cuts, Black Angus short ribs, Wagyu filets and Angus Black steaks at Doha’s only revolving restaurant. For more information call 4446-5600, or email restaurant.reservations@thetorchdoha.com.

Land & Sea Night Wednesdays: Panorama: Enjoy a delicious menu featuring meat and seafood duos like King prawns and rump steak, short rib and seafood spaghetti. From 6:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4446-5600, or email restaurant.reservations@thetorchdoha.com.

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Latino Vs. Italiano Wednesdays: Flying Carpet. Enjoy a wide selection of steaks, burgers, hot dogs, mini-pizzas, Italian antipasti, fresh pasta, paella and live stations for QR 200 per person. From 7:00 p.m. till 10:30 p.m. For more information call 4446-5600, or email restaurant.reservations@thetorchdoha.com.

Crab Thursdays Thursdays: Panorama. Specialty chefs present an array of dishes influenced by crab. On the menu you’ll find crab-cakes, roasted and baked crabs, spicy black crabs and much more. From 6:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4446-5600, or email restaurant.reservations@thetorchdoha.com.

Weekend Late Lunch

Fridays: Panorama. Enjoy a perfect weekend afternoon with family overlooking Doha’s spectacular skyline, with some special treats for kids. Enjoy their tailored a la carte and children’s menus where you can find snacks, seafood specialties and plenty besides. For more information call 4446-5600, or email restaurant.reservations@thetorchdoha.com.

W DOHA Supper Club

Ongoing: Market by Jean-Georges, La Spiga by Paper Moon, and Spice Market. Wrap up the day with all your dinner essentials in a three-course menu for QR 100 for food only, or QR 120 with a special sip. From 5:00 p.m. till 7:00 p.m. For more information call 4453-5000.

Hook & Catch

Wednesdays: Spice Market. Experience regal portions of the freshest catch at Spice Market as the restaurant’s inventive kitchen team dishes out culinary pieces that will whet the appetite of any ocean gastronaut. Menu offerings include salmon teriyaki sashimi, Omani lobster and pineapple curry. Priced at QR 250. From 6:00 p.m. till 10:30 p.m. For more information call 4453-5353.

W T-Time

Daily: W Café. Come and enjoy the W afternoon tea and cream tea with a 10% discount for SPG members. QR 120 per person. From 5:00 p.m. till 7:00 p.m. For more information call 4453-5353.

THE WESTIN DOHA HOTEL & SPA Thai Journey

Daily: Sabai Thai. Discover the authentic tastes of royal Thai cuisine in Sabai Thai, the new signature restaurant at The Westin Doha Hotel & Spa. Guests can enjoy kitchen theatrics of flaming woks and furious chopping as they view the chefs prepare culinary delights at the two live cooking stations. From 12:00 noon till 3:00 p.m. for lunch, or from 7:00 p.m. till 11:00 pm for dinner. For more information call 4492-1555.

Global Cuisine

Daily: Seasonal Tastes. Located on the ground floor, the restaurant serves popular international fare and local Arabic specialties throughout the day. Featuring live cooking stations on the buffet line-up, and an a la carte menu available 24 hours a day. For more information call 4492-1555.

See us online! www.qatarhappening.com

Lobby Lounge

Daily: Luxe Lounge. This modern space located in the hotel lobby welcomes guests in a cozy atmosphere and a relaxing setting. The outlet’s philosophy encompasses organic gourmet food and beverage offerings. Enjoy a choice of pastries, petit fours, chocolate pralines, a unique selection of quality coffees and a variety of aromatic and herbal Oriental teas. For more information call 4492-1555.

TORO TORO DOHA Latin Brunch

Fridays: Eat Brazilian, drink Mexican, dance Colombian! Enjoy the most fabulous and authentic Latin-American brunch in town at the super-stylish Toro Toro Doha. QR 490 including house beverages. For more information call 4035-5101.

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FOOD & DINING

Directory

Spice Market W Doha

INTERNATIONAL Cucina Marriott Marquis City Center Doha

SPANISH & TEX-MEX Aceite 4018-8894 4466-0663 Chili’s El Faro 4035-5555 Fuego 4429-5000 Ipanema 4419-6100 Latino Steakhouse 4485-3000 Oyster Bay 4446-0105 4484-4444 Paloma Picasso’s 4428-1428 Rodizio Brazilian Churrascaria 4408-7777 4429-8888 Salsa Toro Toro Doha 4035-5101

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

Yabby Shangri-La Hotel Doha

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

4434-3333 4408-4888 4446-0170 4411-4458 4428-1428 4413-4772

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

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

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

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

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

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

Al Hubara 4485-3000 4424-2888 Al Liwan Restaurant Al Matbakh Rooftop Grill 4433-6777 Baraha 4447-0000 4472-2666 Blue Brasserie Restaurant Choices 4402-3333 4429-8888 Corniche Cosmo 4424-7777 4419-6100 Crossroads Kitchen Elements 4494-8888 4446-5600 Flying Carpet Grand Gourmet 4434-3333 La Cigalon Restaurant 4428-8888 4408-4220 Lagenda Mawasem 4423-3333 Nando’s Delivery Hotline 4436-0606 Panorama 4446-5600 4445-8888 Olive Oil Pool Bar 4429-5000 4494-8600 Pool Grill Seasonal Tastes 4492-1555 Sridan 4429-5000 The Dining Room (Al Najada Boutique Hotel) 4433-6666 The Grill 4448-1234 The Lagoon 4484-8000 3331-1558 The Village Souq Waqif Three Sixty 4446-5600 Torch Tea Garden 4446-5600 Vine 4446-0105

ITALIAN Antica Pesa Doha Carluccio’s Cucina Di Capri II Teatro La Dolce Vita Italian Restaurant La Spiga by Paper Moon La Veranda le Vesuvio Paper Moon Porcini Rocca The French Olive The Italian Job

4035-5011 4495-3876 4419-6100 4428-8698 4494-8888 4436-7991 4453-5135 4485-3000 4408-1500 4016-6000 4484-8000 4448-1272 4444-4777 4428-1428

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Elements The Four Seasons

JAPANESE Neo 4432-2508 Nobu 4494-8600 Nozomi 4035-5089 Oishi Sushi 4442-8989 Sakura 4428-1428 4015-8888 Strata Restaurant & Lounge Sushi Minto 4467-5577 Megu 4495-3876, Ext: 2101 Yen Sushi Bar 4428-8888

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

PERSIAN Grill @ The Village 4444-4700 Parisa 4425-6666 Prince Of Persia 4015-0190.

SOUTHEAST ASIAN Asia Live! 4429-8888 Chowking Delivery Hotline 4431-1212 Mamoura 4486-6077 Al Khor 4411-8816/17 Salwa Road 4437-1212 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 4411-5063 The Pearl 4495-3876 Wok Mee Noodle House 4496-6600

Sakura Radisson Blu

Rocca The Grand Hyatt

BAR FOOD Belgian Café Library & Cigar Lounge Madison Piano Bar Pool Bar Shehrazad The Irish Harp The Lounge Wahm

CAFÉS 4484-4444 4494-8600 4428-8888 4484-4444 4428-1428 4485-4444 4405-3325 4453-5353

AMERICAN & BURGERS American Grill 4411-0188 Burgeri 4449-3958. Chili’s 4466-0663 Fuddruckers 4483-3983 4467-8750 Hardee’s Johnny Rockets 4455-2792 Ric’s Kountry Kitchen 4443-7846 TGI Friday’s 4488-7008

SEAFOOD Almaskar 4485-3000 Al Dana 4425-6666 Al Sayyad 4484-7420 4446-0105 Al Sultan Brahim Fish Market 4484-4444 Harry Ramsden's World Famous Fish & Chips 4468-3231 L’wzaar Seafood Market 4408-0710 Pier 12 4428-1428 Yabby 4429-5000

STEAKHOUSES Bentley’s Grill Fuego JW’s Steakhouse Le Grill New York Steakhouse Prime The Anvil Rooms Toro Toro Doha

4428-1428 4429-5000 4429-8888 4484-7412 4419-6100 4015-8888 4499-0685 4035-5101

Alison Nelson’s Chocolate Bar 4495-3876, Ext. 1311 Al Jalsa 4425-6666 4434-3203 Al Kut Lounge Allegria 4485-3000 Anima Gallery & Lounge 4002 7437 Arabica 4494-8600 4449-3963 Aspire Grand Café Atrium 4424-7777 Atrium Lounge 4485-4444 4448-1282 Biscotti Café Murano 4035-5555 Caramel Lounge 4445-8888 Chac’Late 4408-2000 Gourmet House 4405-3333 Jones the Grocer 4407-7175 4436-1789 Le Gourmet Lobby Lounge 4429-5000 Luxe Lounge 4492-1555 Maya La Chocolatiere Landmark Mall 4486-2264 Villaggio Mall 4417-8132 MBCo The Gate Mall 4407-7130 Al Emaadi Financial Square 4411-7224 Monte's 4499-0689 Orangery Café Trottoir 4428-8888 Quick Bites 4419-6134 Red Velvet Cupcakery 4408-0700. Sarab Lounge 4446-0105 Savor Café Lounge 4408-7777 Seasons Tea Lounge 4494-8600 Shisha Garden 4428-8888 Sky Lounge 4402-3333 Sugar and Spice 4411-4456 The Courtyard 4433-6444 The Drawing Room 4433-6666 The Lobby Lounge 4484-8000 The Terrace Lounge 4433-6555 Torch Café 4446-5600 Vitamine Café 4035-5011 W Café 4453-5353 Ya Hala 4423-3333

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SPORTS

Top Picks

SHERATON GRAND DOHA Private Tennis Lessons Daily: Sheraton Doha Health & Recreation Center. Come and play tennis on their tennis court with private lessons. Classes start from QR 250 per hour. For more information call 4485-4600.

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA Stand-Up Paddling Fri & Sat: Private beach. Stand-up paddle-boarding is an ancient water activity that in recent years has made a remarkable re-entry to the world of watersports. The boards are designed to provide excellent flotation while standing on, assisted by a paddle designed to help propel and turn. One hour lessons are from 9:00 a.m. till 4:00 p.m. Members QR 120/non-members QR 150. For more information call 4484-4852.

QATAR-ENTALEK Eco Adventure Trips in Qatar Upon request: Entalek is Qatarâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s only eco-adventure company based in Doha. They offer a range of water-based activities and other excursions around Qatar, like kayaking trips into the mangrove forest or moonlight kayaking events and African drumming. They cater to the public as well as schools and corporate events. For more information call 3023-3207, or email entalek.org@gmail.com.

DOHA DOLPHINS Swimming Classes Daily: Doha Dolphins offers all-year-round swimming class for kids ages four years-old and above, and beginner-level adults as well. For more information call 6617-0911, or 3323-6538, or email info@qmotion.com.qa.

THE GRAND HYATT Ashtanga Vinyasa Yoga Wednesdays: Jaula Club & Spa. Get motivated and enjoy a relaxing class of yoga conducted by a professional coach. For every paid class, get one class free. For more information call 4448-1060.

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SPORTS By Antony D. Antoniou Images courtesy of IDL Doha

On May 6 the highly-anticipated IAAF Diamond League series will kick-off once again right here in Doha. This is the seventh successive season that Qatar plays host to the competition, featuring a large number of the world’s top athletes who will open their outdoor campaign at the Suhaim Bin Hamad Stadium (Qatar Sports Club). QH has all the info on the big event and we’re keen to share! So, What’s The IAAF Diamond League, You Say? The IAAF Diamond League is an annual series of track and field meetings held since 2010, spanning four continents and 14 major cities, and has the world’s best athletes competing in a season-long battle. The only other Asian city that will have the honour of hosting a Diamond League meeting this year is Shanghai, China – so take advantage and go check it out.

Rules The IAAF Diamond League encompasses 32 individual event disciplines, with a points-scoring ‘Diamond Race’ which runs throughout the 14-meeting series. Winners of each Diamond Race will get a Diamond Trophy, a cash prize, a wild-card for the IAAF World Championships, and most importantly, will have shown season-long consistency to earn the unchallenged honour of being the World Number 1. The athlete with the highest number of points in each discipline at the end of the IAAF Diamond League season wins ‘The Diamond Race’.

Who Will Be Coming To Doha? International Stars This year’s Diamond League meeting in Doha is bristling with big names such as Olympic and World Championship medallists Christian Taylor, Caterine Ibarguen and Olga Rypakova. Taylor, the American reigning Olympic and World Triple Jump Champion will return to Qatar in the hope of snatching his second IAAF Doha Diamond League victory and reclaiming the meeting record he lost last year to Cuba’s Pedro Pablo Pichardo. This year’s line-up also includes the 2008 Olympic and 2011 and 2013 World Championships 400-metre gold medallist LaShawn Merritt, reigning 1,500-metre world champion Asbel Kiprop and Derek Drouin, the 2015 world champion in the high jump. Merritt set the current Doha meeting record of 44.19 in 2014. The American’s personal best of 43.65 ranks him sixth on the all-time list. Qatari high-jump superstar Mutaz Barshim

Middle distance enthusiasts will be delighted to see a stellar line-up in the 1,500-metres, which features,

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Champion sprinter Allyson Felix

Hurdler Omar McLeod Olympic gold sprinter Justin Gatlin

among others, Kenyans Asbel Kiprop, Elijah Motonei Manangoi and Silas Kiplagat. Kiprop, the 2008 Olympic champion, has won each of the last three World Championships finals, while last year he also produced the fastest time in 14 years, clocking 3:26.69 in Monaco – the third best time ever. The Kenyan also set the Doha meeting record of 3:29.18 in 2014.

Femi Ogunode

Local Stars Most of the Qatar Olympic team members, along with a large number of youngsters will make their outdoor debut, competing against the best at this year’s IAAF Doha Diamond League. Qatari highjumper and local hero Mutaz Barshim has competed at the Doha Diamond League event three times and has yet to notch a win. In search of his maiden home victory he may need to jump higher than he ever has on Qatari soil (current: 2.37 metres) or even a new meeting record to prevail. Three 2012 Olympic and two 2015 World Championships medallists will challenge Barshim in an event that resembles an Olympic high jump final: Drouin, Canada’s reigning world champion and Olympic bronze medallist; China’s Zhang Guowei, who was joint second in Beijing; Erik Kynard, the American Olympic silver medallist; and Robbie Grabarz who shared bronze with Mutaz and Drouin in London will all be battling it out. Qatar’s latest 400-metre hot prospect, 19-year-old Abdalelah Haroun will make his debut and will face a line-up similar in depth and quality to a World Championships final! Half of the Beijing finalists are expected to run against Haroun, who earned silver at the recent World Indoor Championships in Portland, Oregon.

Olympic Year With the Rio 2016 Olympics set to take place just four months from now, athletes are deliberating as to which Diamond League meets to appear at – but with the Doha meet being the season premiere of the competition, organizers say that they will continue to announce more big names. n

Formidable jumper, Colombian athlete Caterine Ibargüen

IAAF DIAMOND LEAGUE 2016 Date: May 6 Tickets: • Virgin Megastore (Landmark and Villagio) • Spinneys - the Pearl • Qatar Sports Club (on the day of the event) • To book your tickets online visit the Virgin Megastore website www.tickets.virginmegastore.me Prices: • General seats and family tribune: QR 50 • Finish line: QR 100 • VIP tickets: QR 200 (includes snacks, drinks and parking) • Kids under 4: Free of charge Contact Info: www.diamondleague.com.

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SPECIAL PROMOTION The problem with some of the Ghibli’s rivals is that essentially they look a little boring, which certainly can’t be said of this design beauty. Every corner of the car is sumptuous, stylish and pays tribute to their long and illustrious racing heritage; trust the Italians to have made the car equivalent of Monica Bellucci.

Gone With The Wind

The inside is stylish and certainly a nice place to be, the dials are easy to read, the seating position is sporty and the overall quality of the interior is very good. All the mod-cons are present and correct, such as the plush crimson leather Poltrona Fraus seats, easy-to-use climate control, USB input for the stereo, paddle shifters, touch screen with Sat Nav, electrically operated seats that can be firm on the back or soft, depending on your preference. They can be heated or ventilated too, not that there’s much call for the heating feature in Qatar. A key-less entry system is used to gain access to the Ghibli and a button to start the engine. There’s also a reasonable amount of storage space for the type of vehicle that this is, including the trunk which was bigger than I was expecting. Although there is some tech behind the dash-board, you won’t be overwhelmed by it or feel intimidated. Unlike some of its competitors, Maserati seems to understand that essentially you want a car and not a hi-tech gizmo driving you around.

A roomy interior and topof-the-line console as only Maserati can envision

A sleek, aerodynamic exterior lets you prowl the streets in style

The Maserati Ghibli S offers unmistakable class, top-quality performance and a thrilling yet comfortable drive. Both versions of the petrol range, Ghibli and Ghibli S, feature a new-generation twin turbo-charged 3.0-litre V6 engine and an 8-speed ZF automatic transmission. With its power output of 410 hp the Ghibli S races to 100 km/h in 5.0 seconds and reaches a top speed of 285 km/h. The Ghibli delivers 330 hp, a top speed of 263 km/h and acceleration of 0 to 100 km/h in 5.6 seconds. The Ghibli S is optionally also available with the Q4 all-wheel drive system. The Ghibli S Q4 accelerates from 0-100 km/h in just 4.8 seconds up to a top speed of 284 km/h. The best thing about the Maserati is the sound of the engine which is music to my receptive ears. More importantly, the Ghibli’s bite is as strong as its bark with a Ferrari engine that goes like the clappers. Simply put, no German car sounds this good!

Final Thoughts

By Antony D. Antoniou Images courtesy of Alfardan Sports Motors

The Maserati Ghibli S is a unique and welcome surprise to the executive sedan market which for many years has often been dominated by the Germans. Now however, the Ghibli S is a genuine contender that not just matches its rivals but simply blows them away! QH gets behind the wheel and hits the open road.

his executive range vehicle has the wow factor to get hearts racing, and even in Doha where luxury cars are a dime-a-dozen, the Ghibli will definitely turns heads wherever you go. In line with Maserati’s long tradition of naming cars after winds, the name ‘Ghibli’ originates from the hot and dry, dust-bearing desert wind descending from the highlands of Libya towards the Mediterranean Sea. The Ghibli that I had the pleasure of driving was a four-door sports executive sedan with a Ferrari engine under the bonnet, and it definitely sounded like one, let me tell you!

For long-distance cruising, the car is comfortable and easy to handle, and for twisty roads, the Ghibli S doesn’t fall short here either, as there is plenty of grip to handle the toughest of turns. The ride quality was good and the suspension was satisfactory, dealing well with all that Doha’s roads threw at it. The price tag isn’t bad either (QR 397,000) and quite frankly, none of the Ghibli’s competitors sound or look quite as elegant and beautiful. More than anything else though, the reason why you should go for the Maserati is simple, it speaks to the romantic in each and every one of us. Its rivals are good but how much cooler does it sound to say that you own a Maserati Ghibli? Very cool, is the answer.The feeling you get from driving this car is simply something else! For more information on Maserati sales in Doha visit www.maserati.qa., or call 4406-5601 - 800-0003. n

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SPORTS

Little Yogis By Hannah Varley

For new Mums postnatal yoga is a popular way to spring back into shape after giving birth, and when baby tags along it can be a new and important way to bond with your little one. QH hits the mat for some quality ‘Mummy & Me’ practice to discover what the fuss is all about.

iggles, gurgles, screeching and nursery rhymes aren’t the usual sounds to come from a yoga studio – but this is no regular asana practice; this is postnatal, Mummy & Me yoga. In my experience these classes are special because they not only allow new Mums to relax and exercise, they also give them a chance to have some essential bonding time with their baby without the daily distractions of phones, housework, TV and everything else.

What does a mummy and me yoga class look like? Most post-natal classes will focus on asanas (poses) to help new Mums build confidence, core stability and strength in their body, along with breathing techniques to help calm and soothe Mum and baby. You've probably heard the saying “a calm Mum equals a calm baby”, and it’s so true. After a couple of rounds of gentle pranayama Mums are settled and ready to focus on the here and, within the first ten minutes of the class, you can see their body language totally change. Babies can pick up on these feelings and once Mum is calm babies start to settle and the babbling and screeching usually reduces to a minimum. This is when the fun begins!

How will postnatal class help my body?

Since working with Mums in my post-natal classes I’ve come to realize that not only do they come for exercise and bonding time with their baby, but also for the social time with other Mums in a relaxed environment. Being a new parent can be daunting and sometimes very isolating. Where better to meet others in the same boat than a Mummy & Me yoga class – a place free from judgment and rules.

After having a baby your body will have changed a lot and places you didn’t know could be sore will be sore! Typical problem areas will be back-ache, sore hips, and wobbly abdominals and legs. Not to worry – Mummy & Me yoga is here to help you get back on track and build your body confidence.

Babies can be very demanding and they don't adhere to timings of a class; if they need feeding, changing or burping there's no delay, babies will surely let you know what they need and usually it's now! However, at a Mummy & Me class there are no set rules – Mums can feed, change and play with their baby in their own time and join in as they wish.

Classes aim to focus on strengthening the core after having a baby and helping Mums build back stability through simple balance poses. After having a baby it’s important that the pelvic floor is strengthened. This can be done through almost all asanas by bringing attention

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such as ‘bridge’ will help. Crunches are a big no-no and could do more damage than good with separated abdominals. With regards to balance poses these are important to build up support. After all those months carrying extra weight on the front of your body it can change the balance in your body, and after giving birth your body needs time to re-adjust. Post-natal yoga can help this process of rebuilding balance. Poses such as ‘tree’ can benefit your body’s alignment – even using a wall behind you for support if needed can help.

What are the benefits for my baby? and awareness to your pelvic floor and engaging it throughout the practice to strengthen the muscle groups and build strength. However, most Mums want to regain stability in their abdominals and certain asanas such as 'boat' pose can help. In certain cases Mums can develop diastasis recti during pregnancy. In short, it's a gap between your right and left abdominal wall muscles that can result in a rounded, protruding belly ‘pooch’ months after giving birth. If this is the case, then crunches and asanas such as boat pose should be avoided. The best way to build strength in the core with diastasis recti is to engage the core muscles from within throughout the asanas. Poses to elongate the abdominals and drawing the naval in through postures

During the asanas in Mummy & Me yoga, babies are incorporated into many of the poses, both to help Mum boost stamina and to have some play-time. Mummies get to kiss, play, fly and hug their babies throughout the class without any distractions. Babies love the bonding time with their Mum’s attention all to themselves in a calm and relaxed atmosphere. Nursery rhymes are sometimes incorporated into Mummy & Me classes, helping soothe the babies as they listen to their mother’s voice, while making classes more fun and every connection more special. Poses such as ‘boat’ can be held while singing ‘Row, Row, Row Your Boat’ to engage both baby-bonding and Mum’s core. It doesn’t matter if you’re in tune or not, the babies won’t mind!

When can I start and how long can I continue? You can begin to practice gentle breathing exercises four weeks after your birth. It’s very important that you attend when you feel physically capable. If you’ve had a C-section it’s crucial you wait until at least six to eight weeks. The Mummy & Me yoga classes are usually suitable for babies aged eight weeks old to ten months. Your teacher should check in with you at the beginning of your lessons to ask about any post-natal issues you may have in order to avoid any injuries or over-stretching. So what’s not to love? More body confidence, increased stability and strength while having fun play-time with your baby and meeting new Mums. It’s win-win! So grab that yoga mat and go find a Mummy & Me yoga class near you – your body and baby will thank you. Namaste. n A trained instructor specializing in post-natal and kids yoga, Hannah Varley can be found teaching at Yama Yoga studios in Doha, Qatar

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SPECIAL PROMOTION

Abroad Mindset By Rowad Ehlela

Travel has a unique effect on each of us. From broadening our world view to helping us unplug, reconnect and strengthen relationships with our environment, the health benefits it can unlock are endless. The experts at EVOLVE – Mind/Body Soul show us exactly how.

ravelling abroad is often an exciting time – we may go to different locations for differing purposes, but one thing for certain is that we gain an opportune moment for insight into our current state of mind with vital time to reflect on our lives, health and well-being. Here are our top five tips to take away from your next vacation:

1. Life Over Luxury: Choosing your destination is as important as anything. Like Eat, Pray, Love there’s value and purpose in choosing where to travel and the benefits of each destination are untold. If you leave with the right mentality and set out intentionally to seek betterment then you’re already on the right track to re-charging your mindset. Sitting in a five-star luxurious spa overlooking an infinity pool that stretches out beyond the cliffs can be just as purposeful as the lone wanderer in the hills of Nepal on a charitable adventure – it all depends on what you’ve set out to gain. Doing a selfless act fills us

with unimaginable feeling. Personal empowerment and self-esteem are known benefits of those that ‘give back’ and spending the time to see how others less fortunate than ourselves live can give you the perspective on life you need to start living and, ultimately, feeling better.

2. Self-Reflection: Travel allows us to break out of our comfort zone away from the familiar. Whether you come from an office environment, have a busy family life, or have finished your studies and are looking ahead with newfound purpose, when you travel you find yourself in a new environment that allows you to evaluate how you are as an individual. It affords you time to greater understand whether you’re on the path you’d hope to be on. The moments you get to spend alone are the best for reflection, so try to isolate yourself from time to time.

3. Local Flavour: If you’re coming from a western society then travelling to the Far East can be of great benefit to your diet. Eating locally-sourced foods fresh from the source is a privilege not all of us get to experience. Living in the Middle East it can be difficult to find fresh, locally-grown foods as the climate conditions aren’t ideal – and paying for organic produce sent half-way across the globe isn’t cheap! The time you have abroad to experience a more healthy way of eating is invaluable. For example, in Bali the fresh fruits and vegetables sold in all the local markets were evergreen and you’ll never find the same quality in a commercial restaurant. One tip for travellers is to eat where the locals go and try to find a menu that isn’t in English – this way you’ll find yourself some healthy foods at a local price!

4. Cleanse: Use the time you have on vacation to separate yourself from the stresses of daily life back home. To dig deeper, while on vacation we can better assess what the fragments of frustration are to us that are less apparent in our daily lives at home. Perhaps you don’t feel too happy about your current health – you smoke, you’re overweight, you don’t exercise…This is the time to make the most of the break from life back home and focus your attention on betterment. Begin to plan how you’re going to counteract the negative habits in your life and put yourself on the right path. If you’ve travelled to any remote areas in Southeast Asia try to notice the aged ladies in the rice fields that are as fit as an ox! A lifetime of healthy, fresh foods and no commercial influence does a world of good to the human body.

5. Be Happy: Ultimately, travelling is a time to celebrate living. Leave your worries in the departure lounge and enjoy the freedom you’ve been gifted. It can be an experience of a lifetime if you allow it. Seek out exciting adventures and find comfort in the knowledge that life is a lot more than you may know it to be. We evolve every day in the knowledge of what tomorrow brings, so don’t fear taking risks when on vacation and move out of your comfort zone. Cognitive empowerment comes from stepping forward and choosing to live well, so do good unto others that cross your path and it may come back to you when a traveller visits your land one day. n Get yourself on-track to optimal health by learning more about EVOLVE – Mind/Body/ Soul’s services. For more information call 5040-3234, email info@evolvemindbodysoul.com, or visit www.evolvemindbodysoul.com.

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SPORTS

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

QH RECOMMENDS

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. Members QR 35/non-members QR 60. From 4:00 p.m. till 5:00 p.m. For more information call 4484-4852.

LA CIGALE New Zumba Class

Mon & Wed: Ozone Gym & Spa. Join the most energetic Zumba class given by certified instructor ReineBaddoura from 8:30 p.m. Let the South American Zumba vibes move you! Come and release your stress, sweat, burn calories and enjoy! For more information call 4428-8101.

SHERATON GRAND DOHA Zumba

Ongoing: Fitness Centre. Join in Sheraton Fitness for Zumba classes at QR 50 per class, Sunday, Tuesday and Friday. For bookings and reservations call 4485-4601/4600/4609, or email HRC.sheratondoha@sheraton.com.

BANANA ISLAND RESORT DOHA BY ANANTARA Diving Lovers

All-Month: The resort is inviting all certified open-water divers to come and join in with their special offers. Day-Dive Experience: two dives with full equipment, QR 500 per person; or two dives without equipment, QR 200 per person. Night-Dive Experience: one dive with full equipment, QR 550 per person; one dive without equipment, QR 400 per person. For groups of four divers minimum. Prior booking is recommended due to limited availability. For more information call 4040-5050.

Splash Surf Pool Happy Hour

All-Month: Cool down and hit the waves at Splash Surf Pool during their happy hour between 10:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. For every 30 minutes of pool time at QR 150 per person, guests will receive an additional 30 minutes complimentary. For more information call 4040-5050.

DOHA MARRIOTT One-On-One Boxing Training

Upon request: The Doha Marriott is now offering personalized boxing classes! Their highly-trained instructor Andrew will take you through all the ropes, offering individualized training. QR 160 per session or QR 1,200 for a course of eight classes. Pre-booking is essential. For more information call 4429-8520.

Boxing Class

Tues &Thurs: Enjoy self-defence that’s safe and most of all fun! Great for bodyconditioning and weight-loss, core strengthening and toning. Push yourself to the limit with this more intense and advanced boxing class that will make you burn more, sweat more and release all the stress built up after a busy day. From 6:00 p.m. till 7:00 p.m. Pre-booking is essential. For more information call 4429-8520.

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA TRX Fitness

Tuesdays: Participants will be working against gravity using their own body-weight and TRX equipment to complete a series of exercises. It helps to develop strength, balance, flexibility and core stability simultaneously. Members, QR 35/non-members, QR 60. Tuesdays from 6:00 p.m. till 6:45 p.m. For more information call 4484-4852.

Swasthi Yoga

Sun & Wed: You’ll be guided along each pose to open up the entire diameter of your body much quicker than standard yoga poses, making the practice much easier, safer and faster to master. This allows you to test your limits and see and feel changes only after a few classes. Members QR 45/ non-members QR 65. Sundays from 9:00 a.m. till 10:15 a.m., and Wednesday from 8:30 a.m. till 9:50 a.m. For more information call 4484-4852.

MARSA MALAZ KEMPINSKI Fitness Classes

Daily: The Health Club. Numerous fitness classes are available, including body-pump, boot-camp, abs workout, Pilates, body-weight, Zumba, yoga, push-up challenge and more. Classes start from QR 85 per person. For more information call 4035-5555, email spa.marsamalaz@kempinski.com, or visit www.kempinski.com/marsamalaz.

The Gym

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

Tennis

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

RADISSON BLU Bulgarian Folk Dance Class

Tues & Sat: Cabana Club. How many different ways can you move? With more than ten years’ experience in Bulgarian folk dance, Velislava Metodieva is happy to share his Bulgarian cultural traditions through its many dances. Members: QR 50 per class and QR 350 for eight classes. Non-members: QR 60 per class and QR 400 for eight classes. From 7:00 p.m. till 8:00 p.m. For more information call 4428-1621/1622.

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SHERATON GRAND DOHA Martial Arts Fitness Centre. Join in Sheraton Fitness for aikido and kick-boxing classes at QR 70 for kids and QR 80 for adults per class. For bookings and reservations call 4485-4601/4600/4609, or email HRC.sheratondoha@sheraton.com.

THE FOUR SEASONS Cycling

Activities & Clubs Bike Riding The Corniche Aspire Park

Bowling

Ongoing: Enjoy a 60-minute indoor cycling class using Activio systems to monitor your heart rate throughout the session. With an intensity ranging from 65% to 85% of your maximum heart rate, find yourself pedalling through hill climbs, sprints and many other challenging drills and exercises. Join this great low impact workout to boost your cardiovascular capacity. QR 60 per person. For more information call 4494-8888.

The Qatar Bowling Center 4432-9178 or www.qatarbowlingcenter.net

Vinyasa Yoga

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

Ongoing: Practice a 75-minute invigorating and energizing yoga session where movements and postures are connected to breath. The session is complemented by deep relaxation to release stress and is open to all levels. QR 80 per person. For more information call 4494-8888.

Special Abs

Ongoing: This is a 30-minute class that primarily targets the abdominal area, designed to increase the tone, strength and flexibility of your mid-section. This class uses various positions, stations and/or equipment to firm up your front, back and oblique abdominals. QR 60 per person. For more information call 4494-8888.

THE GRAND HYATT Fitness Classes

Ongoing: Jaula Spa & Club. Daily classes are available at QR 50 for Jaula members and QR 65 for non-members. Yoga classes are priced at QR 60 for Jaula members and in-house guests, QR 75 for non-members. For every paid class, get one class free. For more information on other classes, days, and timings call 4448-1060.

Gondolania Bowling Center (Villaggio) 4403-9807 or www.gondolania.com Strike Bowling Alley (City Center) 4483-9162

Golf

Horse Riding

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

Ice-Skating

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

Sailing

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

Swimming

See us online! www.qatarhappening.com

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

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QH SENSATIONS

Top Picks

MARSA MALAZ KEMPINSKI Sheer Golden Luxury

Upon request: Spa by Clarins. Gold has a natural anti-inflammatory factor that helps promote cell renewal, giving you younger-looking skin, increasing hydration levels and creating a smooth and toned effect. Enjoy our most luxurious hammam. QR 850 per person including full access to all spa and wellness facilities. For more information call 4035-5555, email spa.marsamalaz@kempinski.com, or visit www.kempinski.com/marsamalaz.

SHARQ VILLAGE & SPA. Muka Chikitsa Facial

Upon request: Six Senses Spa. The Muka Chikitsa Ayurveda Aromatherapy Facial with Subtle Energies products is rapidly becoming a guest favourite. This deep-cleansing facial uses products that deeply penetrate into the skin for the best effect. Afterwards you’ll receive a Subtle Energies gift to continue the treatment at home. For more information call 4425-6999, or email reservations-sharq-spa@sixsenses.com.

BANANA ISLAND RESORT DOHA BY ANANTARA Mother’s Day Special

All-month: Anantara Spa. Every woman needs to be pampered, so share it with the most important woman in your life. Indulge in 90-minute treatments including hand, feet and face masks, followed by a Natura Bissé facial treatment to lift and rejuvenate the skin. For total renewal, you’ll also experience their bathing ceremony in the spa’s luxurious one-hour hammam with their compliments. Special Package QR 1,560 per person, or QR 2,320 for Mum and daughter. For more information call 4040-5158, or email spa.adoh@anantara.com.

THE GRAND HYATT Rejuvenate Your Face

Upon request: Jaula Spa & Club. Book a Liftosome treatment a highly-powered, 60-minute anti-wrinkle treatment that brings radiance back to your skin while focusing on the delicate area around the eyes to target crow's feet and dark circles, and receive a relieving complimentary 30-minute massage for your back, neck and shoulders. For more information call 4448-1056

DOHA MARRIOTT Slimming Packages

Upon request: Take the time to pamper yourself this year at the Doha Marriott hotel. Ask for one of their special Slimming packages and take advantage of their Olympic-sized swimming pool and gym! For more information call 4429-8520.

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QH SENSATIONS By Ashlee Starratt and Antony Antoniou Photography by Jessie Palanca

If you’re going to pamper yourself, why not do it at the finest address in the city? Good plan, we say! QH spends an afternoon of relaxation in the lap of luxury at The St. Regis Doha’s Remède Spa, with two signature treatments that will set your world to rights. Herbal Essence When the day is done but you can’t switch off, sometimes only the spa will do. Spoiled for choice in Doha, we have our pick of locales for pampering – but few do five-star as eloquently as The St. Regis Doha. Home to the country’s only branch of iconic French brand Remède Spa, it’s luxury refined. The premises is white and gold, its cloistered hallways, blue mosaic wet-room, and muted relaxation area. Its spa menu reads like a jewelers’ brochure – yes, the Diamond Youth Facial is real and so are the rocks they use. Today I’ll be trying their Compress Healing Massage Therapy, a traditional Thai technique with benefits not dissimilar to those of a hot stone treatment. My therapist Junie is Balinese so I know I’m in the right hands. She escorts me through to the plush changing area where every room has its own vanity, hair-dryer and toiletries. After a quick whip into a robe and slippers I follow Junie down the library-quiet corridors to my treatment room. Orchid petals are scattered on the massage table and the soundtrack of crashing waves acts as an ambient tide to drift away on. The room is well-appointed with its own cavernous rain-shower and dressing area – in case you don’t fancy leaving your valuables in a locker. I get myself settled face-down on the bed and Junie gets to work warming me up with the peppermint oil I’ve selected prior to the treatment. Small but mighty, she’s a pro. She works deftly to unkink my knots – focusing on my shoulders, neck and lower back, where I carry my stress. This is the warm-up; after she’s loosened my muscles she then applies the hot herbal compresses to my oiled skin. When I say hot – I mean hot; but the effect the heat has on my body after Junie’s initial limbering up leaves me floating on air. The heat melts away any residual tension that’s left in my body and I become a bowl of Jello.

With serene and stylish decor, you're sure to relax and let go at Remede Spa

To paint a picture, the herbal compresses are tightly-wrapped satchels filled with an emulsion of healing herbs – lavender, mint leaves, ginger and lemongrass. The scent is soothing, and the temperature a warm hug for my tired tendons. Front and back Junie alternates between using her hands and applying the compresses; finishing the treatment with a toe-curling neck, scalp and facial massage that’s all the anesthesia I need after a stressful day. She even massages my ears. Bliss!

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the treatment room. He explains that The Remède Customized Massage is tailor-made for each client, based on their individual needs and wants. The room’s interior is full of rich woods and simple, cream white walls, illuminated with flickering scented candles. The therapist requests that I lay on the massage table face down as the peppermint oil, which I selected when I first arrived at the spa, was applied. I was informed that peppermint oil is also great for sports massages because it activates the muscles, improves mental clarity and raises energy levels. The gently applied oil isn’t too cold and straight away the massage starts with a medium-strength pressure exerted on my lower back. The next area of focus is the back and the neck, each time the masseuse spends about five to ten minutes on each area. The 14 years of experience from my masseuse is then fixed on my calf muscles as I start to fall asleep. All the time, multiple massage techniques were applied in a mesmerizing, soothing manner. Sounds of the ocean and of nature envelop the room and before long I’m asked to turn onto my back. My arms, chest, stomach and, finally, my head also receive the much-needed attention they deserve. I recall the distinct feeling that 90 minutes couldn’t have passed so quickly –but they have. Every inch of me wants to stay and have another 90 minutes (it was seriously considered). Time to leave, I head for the shower once more and then back out to the real world, refreshed and a picture of serenity and happiness. n A Girl’s Best Friend

Some much needed tea is offered upon arrival

Afterwards, as I stand under the steam of the rainshower my whole body feels light, my skin supple and my pulse steady for the first time that day. My remedy’s Remède.

Revived And Ready If you’re ever having ‘one of those days’ and need to escape from it all, then you can’t do much better than spend a few hours in Remède Spa at The St. Regis Doha. It’s a place that’s committed to creating an exceptional and unique experience for each and every guest. I had the distinct pleasure of experiencing The Remède Customized Massage – a 90-minute treatment which was worth every dirham. From the moment I stepped into their sublime surroundings, I was treated with a level of care and attention usually reserved for the rich and famous.

The spa exudes a slick, modern interior, while the French brand lives up to the currency of its cosmetic heritage as we peruse its extensive and impressive treatment list. After a brief consultation I find myself walking down its beautifully soft- lit hallways, being greeted with smile after smile at every turn from the genuinely friendly and polite staff. With each footstep the stress of the outside world ebbed away. One of the staff members suggested that I might enjoy a quick shower prior to the treatment and he’s certainly not wrong. The aqua-blue design of the men’s section brings back memories of Santorini or the light blue waters of the Maldives. My therapist, who hails from the beautiful isle of Bali, Indonesia, was waiting patiently as I entered

Diamonds aren’t just for dripping with – although we won’t say no to a perfectly set bauble wrapped around our little finger. Remède Spa is now offering a Diamond Youth Facial that will leave you nothing short of sparkling. Using diamond-tip vacuum technology to exfoliate and uplift your skin’s rough, dull outer layers, it’s the latest luxe treatment that will have you looking fresh and fabulous. Plumping your complexion with a unique, customized serum, this one-of-a-kind facial simultaneously clarifies your pores, reduces fine lines and decreases pigmentation. Book your exclusive 30-minute experience for QR 1,020.

REMÈDE SPA Location: Mezzanine level, The St. Regis Doha Timings: 9:00 a.m. till 10:00 p.m., daily Pricing: • QR 780, 75-minute Compress Healing Massage Therapy • QR 780, 90-minute Remède Customized Massage Contact Info: Call 4446-0300/0303, email remedespa.doha@stregis.com, or visit www.remedespadoha.com.

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QH SENSATIONS

Jewel Of The Corniche By Antony D. Antoniou Photography by Jessie Palanca

The Sheraton Grand Doha is an unquestionable landmark of the city and for many; it’s become a full-blown institution. Both locals and expats have fond memories of Qatar’s iconic five-star hotel. With the property going through a ‘freshening up’ after an extensive refurbishment, QH was itching to go back and take a look around. Vital Stats Set at the beginning of Doha’s impressive Corniche, the Sheraton Grand Doha overlooks the serene Arabian Gulf. This luxe high-rise hotel with private beaches is a three-minute walk from Sheraton Park, a 10-minute walk from City Center Mall and just across the bay from Hamad International Airport. Accommodation ranges from casual-chic rooms with Smart-TVs, Nespresso machines and balconies, to lavish two-floor suites featuring free, high-speed internet, club lounge access and airport transfers.

The splendour of the lobby will have you entranced from the off

Latino Steakhouse a true South American culinary experience

Valet parking and an extensive breakfast buffet are also available. All in all, there are nine outlets to grab a bite at. Amenities also include a 24/7 gym, a ballroom, mature gardens with cabanas, and a circular outdoor pool with a whirlpool tub to boot.

A Warm Welcome It’s a stormy Wednesday afternoon when my wife and I check in for a brief one-night introduction to this stunning property. Just as impressive as on the outside is the architecture to be seen from within. The vast atrium stretches up from the lobby skyward like one of those famous M. C. Escher lithograph prints. A friendly and smooth check-in has me grabbing my room card and heading for the seventh floor. After a

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Plenty of space for fun and relaxation

slightly heady elevator ride, I arrive to my level and head for the room. Our home for the night is a beautiful Sea View Room overlooking the gardens, pool and, of course, the jaw-dropping Arabian Gulf. After indulging in some complimentary date palms and Arabic tea, we read the personalised welcome note. It’s a nice touch and very much appreciated. From our room we manage to catch the magical Qatari sunset as the clouds miraculously clear away. Recharged from this natural marvel we head back into the room from the balcony and take in the interior. I must say, no expense has been spared in this well-appointed room. The décor is lavish but classy and certainly makes you feel like a million bucks. A king-size Sheraton Sweet Sleeper bed dominates the upper level,and the lower level reveals comfortable seats which face toward a huge flat screen TV with over a hundred channels for your viewing pleasure.

Succulent Steaks Having worked up an appetite after a long day, we head to the ground floor for our much anticipated repast of South American cuisine. Latino Steakhouse has an authentic and warm, earthy décor which immediately makes us feel welcome. The eatery serves South American classics and superb steaks all sourced from Argentina. To compliment the food they also have a wide array of beverages and every night you’ll be serenaded by live music from a dynamic Colombian duo.

Apart from the exquisite, melt-in-your-mouth steaks we devoured, the other highlight of the evening was their signature guacamole which was mixed and prepared right at our table. You simple must order it!

Sizzling Parillada with skewers of succulent surf and turf

Full to bursting, we sit back and soak in the sweet Latin melodies as we digest our feast. Excellent service from start to finish and warm smiles ensure that this steakhouse certainly deserves a second visit (and a third, and fourth….and perhaps a few more after that).

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QH SENSATIONS

The Irish Harp - A classic Victorian style Irish pub

A Trip To The Emerald Isle With our bellies full, we fall out of the steakhouse and into the Irish Harp for a quick one. This pub has been changed significantly after the recent refurbishment. The entrance has been moved and, generally,the whole place has become a little bigger. We take our night-cap and enjoy the Irish-themed décor and ambiance. Our server informs me that every Tuesday from 8:00 p.m. till 11:30 p.m. is Ladies Night. (QR 100 for men, including one standard beverage. Free for ladies plus five complimentary beverages). We decide to walk off our meal in the gardens; I’m immediately struck by the beautiful bird-song filling the night air. It feels as if we’re in a botanical wonderland –the gardens are lush and mature and a pleasure to walk through. We reach the end of one footpath and I realise I’m standing where the famous Backyard party takes place every Friday. The Backyard is a live-music event from 7:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. where you can stretch out on the grass, surrounded by beautiful candle-lights and listen to some stellar local bands. Amazing food, a good selection of beverages and an energetic crowd make a great combination for a Friday night out. Entry is QR 100 for men including one standard beverage, and QR 65 for ladies including one standard beverage. One night for us wasn’t enough to really explore all that the Sheraton Grand Doha had to offer but perhaps that’s a good thing –we now have an excuse to go back. It’s a special hotel with a rich history and excellent service –one that both Qataris and residents have an emotional connection with. If you want to spoil yourself but haven’t got time for a trip abroad then you can’t do much better than a quick break at the Sheraton Grand Doha. n

SHERATON GRAND DOHA Location: The Corniche

Backyard revelers in full swing

Average Prices: • QR 1,120 opening offer per night for Sea View Room, inclusive of breakfast. Prices are subject to seasonal variation • QR 630, Dinner for two at Latino Steakhouse (inclusive of house beverages) Contact info: Call 4485-4444, or visit www.sheratongranddoha.com

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QH SENSATIONS

Words and selected images by Lynsey Riach

Los Angeles, California… the City of Angels. Watch your step – under your feet the pink stars of Hollywood Boulevard stretch as far as your legs can walk, and you never know whose star you’ll stomp on next. Welcome to Tinseltown.

os Angeles is known to be a city of contrast – glitz and glam meets grime and gangster. Downtown L.A. has rough streets, but as a tourist if you base yourself in Hollywood then you’ll only see what the movies want you to see (minus any CGI effects). And with a new direct route from Doha on Qatar Airways (16 hours, 25 minutes – their longest one) you’ll arrive into LAX, shades on and ready to feel all kinds of famous. Start by stretching your legs and hike up the movie star-frequented Runyon Canyon which sits smack-

bang in the middle of Hollywood. At the top you can snoop into palatial homes of the rich and famous (if you zoom your camera enough that is) as panoramic views stretch over L.A. and beyond to the Pacific. Staying at the W Hotel, this place is hip and happening, full of beautiful people. We felt like a couple of extras in a music video as we soaked up the weekly pool-party. As the sun set behind the Hollywood Hills straight ahead of us, we headed on out to explore more of the local area – cafés, restaurants and shops are plentiful. We stopped at Pinks Famous Hotdogs mostly because there was a line round the block and, mostly, because my husband loves to try street-food and this was something only America could pull off. Each dog is named after a celebrity so he opted for a frankfurter named after swimmer Ryan Lochte complete with Olympic onion rings – mega! The next day we walked down skinny-tall palm treelined avenues gawping at the great and gorgeous homes before reaching the iconic Paramount Pictures for a tour of what makes the movies so magical. Whisked from set to street all with an iPad that shows the actual finished product, prepare to

be impressed by the transformation made on quite a small (and Hollywood’s oldest) lot. They even film ocean scenes in the car-park here. Think your fifteen minutes of fame is right about now? Well this is your opportunity to get on TV thanks to free tickets to shows such as Ellen and The Tonight Show. And if that’s not enough, hop aboard the TMZ tour bus that takes you round the homes of the rich and reality ‘famous’. Stalker favourite… As night fell, we wanted extra glam so we headed to The Mondrian hotel for dinner. Seated next to a British boy-band, we gazed over the twinkling lights that pull so many to believe they too can be the next big thing (every waiter will tell you so). For a little more of California, it’s worth hiring a car and heading out of the city and up to the scenic mountains in Calabasas. Made famous by those Kardashians, this town is only 20 minutes away from L.A. and takes a sweeping road down to surf-town Malibu. Stop for some tacos at Café Habana and watch as local surfers walk on by, while A-listers chow down behind their oversized

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Santa Monica beach is filled with surfers and families

Cafe Habana fish taco

The famous Hollywood boulevard strip

sunglasses. Shop at Kitson for some quirky L.A. clobber before jumping back into your car (hopefully a convertible) to continue on to hippy chic Santa Monica. As you roll into this small town, you’ll recognize the iconic ferris wheel perched upon Santa Monica Pier. Have some fun at the fair and move on to finish your day at Venice Beach where you can catch the beefcakes flex at the outdoor gym made famous by the Guvnor Arnie.

Iconic Paramount Studios Water Tower

Feel smug that the next time you watch a big blockbuster you can say “I’ve been there, done that and bought an Oscar with my name on it…” Safe travels and happy holidays! Qatar Airways now flies direct from Doha to Los Angeles twice daily. For more information on L.A. visit www.discoverlosangeles.com. n Lynsey Riach is a qualified yoga instructor living and working in Doha normally walking her dogs, on her yoga mat, or on her travels. For more information on her services visit www.andstretchyoga.com.

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QH SENSATIONS

Viennese

Whirl By John Hunt Selected photography by Eleanor Graff

Vienna has a reputation as a superior tourist destination, but it remains a delight when the reality lives up to the hype...

swift train transfer from airport to hotel saw us checking in in the evening. Dropping the luggage in our room, I retired to the bar for a cold one while Ellie finalized our itinerary. The following morning, the adventure began. First up, five minutes’ walk from the hotel, was the Gothic/Baroque ‘Hofburg’, home of the Spanish Riding School and the famed Lipizzaner Stallions, a cross-breed of Spanish, Arabian and Berber horses who perform evenings twice-weekly. The performances, set to classical music, showcase the elegant movement of the horses and the complete synchronicity of horse and rider. We were invited to an evening show (the day after our departure), but we did see morning practice and a tour of the facility – fascinating. Practice tickets cost QR 62 (bargain), while tickets for the ‘main event’ range from QR 103 to QR 558.

Of Palaces And Pandas Next, via a Metro ride, was the Schönbrunn Palace (QR 78), a World Cultural Heritage site and Austria’s most-visited attraction. It’s the former residence of the Habsburgs, the ruling family of the former Austro-Hungarian Empire. The 1,441-room Baroque palace is one of the most important architectural and historical monuments in Austria. We wandered through the beautifully-furnished residential and ceremonial rooms. As you might imagine, this place is absolutely huge and took hours to take in. It’s a must-see. The mammoth Palace gardens also house Vienna Zoo (QR 76) where more than 700 animal species are on display – including Giant Pandas (as well as our friendly Red Panda) which are sympathetically housed. There’s also a petting zoo for the kids. Highly recommended. Central Vienna’s Museum Quarter houses multiple attractions, including the Architect Centre Vienna and the Leopold Museum but due to time constraints we chose the Museum of Modern Art (QR 46). Sadly, the curators had filled the entire space with work almost exclusively from young Viennese artists, of ‘variable’ standard. Best left unless they have an international exhibition on…

However, across the road from the art museum were the Art History Museum of Vienna (QR 41) and the Natural History Museum. Both were home to vast collections housed in a pair of palaces, and both are definitely worth a visit. You will astounded by the elegant buildings as well as their contents. The latter boasts 40 exhibit halls crammed with prehistoric goodies and also the world’s largest and oldest public collection of meteorites, including the spectacular ‘Tissint’ rock, which originated on Mars. The Art History Museum, built in 1891, has a vast array of eminent works and the largest Bruegel collection in the world. Numerous major works of European art history, masterworks by Rubens, Rembrandt, Titian and Tintoretto are housed here. It’s not cheap – QR 141 – but if you’re an art-lover, it’s a must see. Out of the centre, but easily accessible by what was an astonishingly good public transport system was the Museum of Military History (QR 24). The museum documents the military history of the Habsburg Empire from the 16th century until 1918, and Austria’s fate after the dissolution of the monarchy up to the year 1945. See the bullet-riddled car in which Archduke

Ferdinand was assassinated, precipitating WWI, and a sinister collection of Adolf Hitler artifacts, just prior to the outbreak of WWII. Fascinating and cheap. In addition to the above, we crammed in the Technical Museum (QR 12 – bargain) and a ‘walk among the tombstones’ at the ‘Zentralfriedhof’ (Central Cemetery, free), one of the largest cemeteries in the world and the resting place of some truly notable individuals, foremost among them, Ludwig van Beethoven. Definitely worth a look; serene and, in some areas, very sad. We wrapped up at Prater Park, the giant Ferris Wheel offered breath-taking views over the city. We’d had three full (and I mean full) days of sightseeing when we really needed a week. Learn more about what we missed at www.vien.info – where you can also find out about the range of tourist cards available to enable use of the incredibly efficient public transport system.

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Baroque architecture abounds in the Austrian capitol

Vienna - Known as one of the most picturesque cities of central Europe

Oh, and if you like chocolate and cake (or a combination of the two), Vienna is the motherlode.

Feeling Blu

Man and beast perfectly attuned at the Hofburg

We sought central, quiet accommodation where we could relax before pounding the pavements each day. We found this, and more, at the Radisson Blu Style Hotel Vienna which was centrally situated, and 50 metres from a Metro stop. The stylish hotel was almost ‘boutique’ in that it had fewer than 100 rooms. It so was peaceful we slept like babies on each of the four nights we stayed. Great room, too. Free WiFi (standard at Radisson hotels), massive TV, enormous and firm bed, generous in size in the bedroom, and in the marbled bathroom also with its powerful ‘rain shower’. Breakfast each morning was a superb buffet affair with hot dishes (at no extra charge) available from the kitchen – so out came my favourite: Parmesan omelette. We also dined at the hotel one evening, and the food (mains of oxtail for her, beef tenderloin for me) was top, top, notch. Service levels were outstanding, especially in food and beverage. A double room with breakfast starts at QR 990 per night. See www.radissonblu.com/en for more. Qatar Airways flies daily from Doha to Vienna from QR 3,820 return. n

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The Dish On Qatar QH SENSATIONS

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By Ashlee Starratt

So you’ve staked your fortune in the Gulf and after (hopefully!) a good run, the time has come to pack your bags and move on from Qatar. But before you rush ahead and book that one-way ticket, keep in mind that exits take planning. Here’s what you need to know when it’s time to say your Doha goodbyes.

fter four and half years in Qatar, making my choice to leave was as difficult as making the leap to come. Though Doha writes its own unique story on all of us, for better or worse, the reality remains that at some point there’re no more pages to turn. As expats we rearrange our lives and build a home away from home as best we can. We find our tribe, we craft a community and here becomes our home. Once we get comfortable, uprooting ourselves can be daunting – and knowing where/how to start the exit process is essential. If you’re resigning of your own accord, most contracts have a binding notice period that can run anywhere from one to three months which gives you a bit of lee-way to settle your affairs. But, this being Qatar, things don’t always work as planned. For those expats who have lost their jobs due to cut-backs or redundancies, the exit time-frame may be drastically shorter – sometimes a matter of weeks. The best advice is the simplest – avoid taking on debt if at all possible. Rent a vehicle instead of owning. Make sure you pay off your credit cards each month. Be informed before taking out a loan in Qatar to settle or consolidate debts back in your home country. Remember – we’re here for a productive time, not necessarily a long time. Before you leave and your residence permit (RP) can be canceled, you must pay off all outstanding debts and get a clearance letter from your bank stating that you don’t owe anything. Credit card cancellations take 45 days to clear, so this time period should be factored in to your plans once you’ve submitted your resignation. For those who have been made redundant and have to leave the country quickly, it’s a good call to check with your bank to see if they have a policy to accommodate such departures when it comes to credit card clearance. If you’re a lease-holder on an apartment in Qatar and you find yourself suddenly needing to leave the country, a good idea before you even move in and sign on the dotted line is to make sure that your rental agency will allow for a break clause in the contract. This enables the lessee to leave without penalty before the full time period of their contract is up – usually with at least two months advance notice. This offers added protection so that

you won’t be held financially liable for the full remainder of your lease should things not go to plan with your job. For those who drive in Doha, selling your vehicle can be another road-block. Right now the market for used vehicles is quite saturated and therefore in a slump. I posted ads on every sales site (Qatar Living, Expat.com, I Love Qatar etc.) in the hopes that I could move it smoothly and quickly – for my asking price. After numerous dead ends I finally went through an excellent broker (www.carsindoha.com) who were able to find a buyer. It’s important that you switch your car registration out of your name and, whether you own or rent, all existing traffic violations are paid. Whether it’s apartment deposits to be returned, or cash in hand from the sale of your car, you’ve probably got a few sources of hidden riyals to be collected before your departure. If you have a permit card for the Qatar Distribution Company, returning it before you go will have you walking out QR 1,000 richer with your deposit return. Lastly when it comes to exit clearances and visa cancellation protocol, the process should be standard across all companies. Once your resignation has been submitted and all bank clearances received by your company, your End of Service benefits (the equivalent of your base salary for every year of your employment), any outstanding Annual Leave encashments and your final salary should be credited to your account on your final day of work. There’s usually a few days’ grace period where you can transfer your funds out of Qatar and close your bank account and any other utilities in your name (Ex: Ooredoo, Kharamaa), before your RP is cancelled. Then when your return flight is booked and your company has cancelled your visa, your RP card will be collected at airport immigration (no more going through E-gate!) and a cancellation stamp issued in your passport. For me it’s been the end of era but also the start of an exciting new chapter in life. What we take with us from our time in Qatar – or anywhere spent abroad – can only resonate until its echo becomes another reverberation in the rhythm of our life experience. Goodbyes are hard, but exits shouldn’t be.. n

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IT HAPPENED

Mr. Guido De Sanctis (L-R) The Ambassador of Italy H.E. and Catering Group with CEO of Al Jaber Hospitality cutting the ribbon Mr. Mohamed Youssef Al Jaber the grand opening in front of many businessmen at

Youssef & Catering Group, Mr. Mohamed (L-R) CEO of Al Jaber Hospitality , Mr. Khalid Ahmed Hassan Bilal Al Jaber and Director of AHB Group

, Mr. Ahmed Hassan Bilal (L-R) The Chairman of AHB Group n Group, chats with the chairman of Al Farda Mr. Hussein Al Fardan

& Catering Group, (L-R) CEO of Al Jaber Hospitality and Chairman of AHB Group Mr. Mohamed Youssef Al Jaber Mr. Ahmed Hassan Bilal

CICCHETTI RESTAURANT GRAND OPENING The Shoumoukh Towers April 18, 2016 104 QH May 2016 - FINAL.indd 104

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of South The Ambassador of the Republic Ahmed Africa, H.E. Mr. Saad Cachalia with Hassan Bilal Group representatives

SOUTH AFRICAN FREEDOM DAY RECEPTION The Grand Hyatt April 14, 2016 105 QH May 2016 - Apr 26.indd 105

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IT HAPPENED

Gold medalist Giulia Steingruber of Switzerland in action

9TH ARTISTIC GYMNASTICS WORLD CUP Aspire Dome March 24-26, 2016 106 QH May 2016 - Apr 26.indd 106

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GRAND OPENING GALA Westin Doha Hotel & Spa March 24, 2016

A taste of Havana magic right here in Doha

BUENA VISTA SOCIAL CLUB CONCERT Sheraton Grand Doha March 25, 2016 107 QH May 2016 - Apr 26.indd 107

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IT HAPPENED

Revellers soaked through at Thai New Year festival

SONGKRAN FESTIVAL The Grand Hyatt April 13, 2016

BUBBLICIOUS MEDIA BRUNCH The Westin Doha Hotel & Spa April 15, 2016 108 QH May 2016 - Apr 26.indd 108

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d Coffee Planet, a subsidiary of Ahme rance Hassan Bilal Group makes an appea it at Middle East Hospitality Summ

MIDDLE EAST HOSPITALITY SUMMIT The Grand Hyatt April 5, 2016

iary German Bakery Company, a subsid s the of Ahmed Hassan Bilal Group show plethora of bread types on offer

OYSTER BAY REGGAE NIGHT The St. Regis Doha April 15, 2016 109 QH May 2016 - Apr 26.indd 109

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IT HAPPENED

FERRARI TRACK DAY Lusail International Circuit March 24, 2016

Lucky Grab-Bag winners Mr and Mrs Shahul

THE QH GRAB-BAG WINNER InterContinental Doha The City April 13, 2016 110 QH May 2016 - Apr 26.indd 110

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

4424-4881 4040-5050 4445-8888 4408-7777 4429-8888 4445 5555 4448-1234 4408-4888 4423-3333 4484-4444 4015-8888 4405-3333 4428 8888 4419-5000 4035-5555 4424-7777 4429-1111 4496-6600 4402-3333 4428-1555 4429-5000 4425-6666 4485-4444 4494-8888 4484-8000 4446-0000 4446-5600 4453-5000 4492-1555 4434-3333

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

HEALTH / BEAUTY

AHMED HASSAN BILAL GROUP

Amaoras RelaxationSpa 4408-4085 Angsana Spa 4434-3152 4496-6410 Bay View 26, Wellness Centre Bliss 4453-5555 Bottega Verde 4483-4535 Coiffeur Franรงaise 4468-9211 4498-0033 Dados Beauty Salon Diva Lounge 4431-8488 Doha Dental 4431-7766 4429-8520 Doha Marriott Spa Ebn Sina Medical 800-2288 4494-8801 Four Seasons Spa 4494-8844 Frank Provost Glow American Salon, Salwa Rd. 4468-9945 West Bay 4411-7652 4483-9100 GoodLife Chemist City Center 4495-3876 The Pearl Guerlain Alfardan Spa 4420-8660 Habibs Hair and Beauty Salon 4413-0672 4492-1555 Heavenly Spa La Cigale - Ozone Spa 4428-8888 4451-7590 Medical Spa Villaggio Patrice Salon 4485-4012 Pure Spa 4424-7327 Ritz-Carlton Spa 4484-8173 Saray Spa 4419-5517 Six Senses Spa 4425-6999 Snips Salon 4408-4083

REAL ESTATE Ahmed Hassan Bilal 4442-8877 Trad. & Cont. Co. www.ahbqatar.com INTERIOR Forum Design 4456-8716 RESTAURANTS Chowking Salwa Road 4437-1212 Chowking Al Khor 4411-8816/4411-8817 Chowking Mamoura 4486-6077 Chowking Holiday Villa 4411-5225/335 German Bakery Company 4442-8877 Harry Ramsden's World Famous Fish & Chips 4468-3231 PUBLICATIONS ABODE/QH Magazines 4427-8416

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

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

HOSPITALS / EMERGENCY AMBULANCE, POLICE & FIRE DEPARTMENT

999

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

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

4439-3333 4439-2948 4466-6671

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

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

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

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