Qatar Happening - October 2015 by Qatar Happening

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

pg 20 Oktoberfest: The Best Of Bavaria

October 2015 EVERY ISSUE 11 14

Editor-In-Chief's Letter

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

Top Picks

The Best Of Bavaria

A Shakespearean Storm

Ibiza Days, Doha Nights

Sharing A Stage

Arts & Culture Listings

The best of our monthly social media,

The QH Grab-Bag

Our monthly prize corner for your chance to win

106 It Happened

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

112 Phone Directory

Need-to-know phone numbers

ARTS & CULTURE

QH Speaks

plus the Hit-Or-Miss List

ENTERTAINMENT

Oktoberfest 2015 is back at the InterContinental Doha and we've got your exclusive close-up with the band! Renowned DJ Pierre Ravan is bringing his one-man show to the Sheraton Doha's Indigo VIP

Sunset Rhythm

Your Friday nights won't be the same now that Sundowner Sessions are back at the Sharq Village & Spa

Virgin Recommends

How the Words & Strings collective is giving young poets, musicians and artists a platform – and a voice! Find out everything that’s going on this month

The best monthly entertainment picks from the Megastore

Spotlight On Movies

Entertainment Listings

Our top five must-see films of the month

Find out everything that’s going on this month

LIKE US ON FACEBOOK www.facebook.com/qatarhappening

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

The Doha Players are back on-stage, bringing to life William Shakespeare's The Tempest. We go behind the scenes.

CHECK OUT www.qatarhappening.com for the latest information

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TABLE OF CONTENTS COMMUNITY 49 50

Top Picks The Gift Of Gab

Behind the microphone with the Doha Toastmasters

It Takes A Village...

Qatar Celebrates Education

How Qatari-based non-profit group All For One is changing the community, one helping hand at a time

Our sneak peek inside this month's inaugural Qatar Global Education Fair

Building Strong Bonds

Community Listings

We introduce you to the concept of 'attachment parenting' and how it can help create lasting connections between you and your child

pg 90

Find out everything that’s going on this month

Qatar 2022: Our Look Ahead

FOOD & DINING

SPORTS

QH SENSATIONS

Top Picks

From Chip To Shore

Luxury On The High Seas

Eforea Escape

Show Us The Beef

2022: Can Qatar Compete With The World's Best?

100 Chicago...It's Time To Taste It!

68 70

Our very own AHB Group brings Harry Ramsden's World Famous Fish & Chips to Qatar We grab the bull by the horns at Toro Toro Doha

Our breakdown and analysis of the top teams and players who could grace the pitch at Qatar 2022

L'Élégance Française

The Radisson Blu's Maxim restaurant still has that old-world touch of class

Epicurean Artistry

We visit the home of the Shangri-La Hotel Doha's Executive Chef Ryan Sonson for a real treat in the kitchen

Food & Dining Listings

Find out everything that’s going on this month

The Qatar International Boat Show is back for another season on the water. We give you a look ahead.

The Myth Of The Quick Fix EVOLVE – Mind/Body/Soul points us down the road to optimal health – and it doesn't include a scalpel!

Sports Listings

Find out everything that’s going on this month

When it comes to ultimate relaxation, the spa at the Hilton Doha is still the one to beat

Home to the Chicago Cubs and its world-famous deep-dish pizza, QH takes a flying visit through The Windy City

102 Purely Panama

This Central American country connects much more than continents... you'll leave your heart there as well

104 The Dish On Qatar

New to Doha and need help getting settled? Let us introduce you the local company that can – Country Connections Qatar

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?

owner When the sun goes down, Sund ber! Sessions are heating up this Octo by Photo credit: Conceptualized Lindsey Steenkamp

Dear friends,

elcome to our big and bold October issue. As the city wakes up after its summer sleep, this month promises to be the most jam-packed yet. Not least of all is some very exciting news out of our own AHB Group as we announce October's grand opening of the Middle East’s very first outlet of Harry Ramsden’s World Famous Fish & Chips at Medina Centrale on The PearlQatar. This historic UK brand marks its premier franchise in Qatar as a subsidiary of AHB Group and we couldn’t be more proud of this prestigious partnership. A popular UK staple, no trip to the British seashore is complete without a hot platter of freshly-battered cod or haddock filets and a heaping mound of crispy chips splashed with vinegar. We bring you an exclusive interview with AHB Group Chairman, Mr. Ahmed Hassan Bilal, ahead of the grand opening, as he discusses the brand’s emergence into the Qatari market and how its familyfriendly menu and ambiance has sustained generations of restaurant-goers on the boardwalks of Britain, Scotland and Ireland for over 85 years. AHB Group is also proud to announce that of one of our own original food and beverage concepts – Crunch Cantina – will also open its doors this October at Nova Cinemas on The Pearl-Qatar. With a forward-thinking, health-conscious menu, Crunch offers movie-goers a tasty and refreshing array of fresh juices, sandwiches and salads as an alternative to the usual sugary and starchy theatre snacks. We hope to see you pass by to sample our offerings and try something new! Also in this issue we take you inside our Arts & Culture pages to meet a unique community group who are providing a platform for young poets, spoken-word artists and musicians to perform in public for an eager audience. These are the Words & Strings collective and we show you how any aspiring new talent can join them on-stage. Qatar Happening is also proud to have a media partnership with one of the biggest academic events to be hosted in Doha this month. The Qatar Global Education Fair will be setting up shop at the Sheraton Doha on October 27 and 28 and will host some of the biggest names in international post-secondary institutions for students who want to pursue a university degree abroad. So, if you’re a prospective graduate who’s keen to study overseas, we’ll see you there with your list of questions for recruiters.

About Us QH is your voice and your guide for all things fun, funky and happening in Qatar! Send us your feedback to editor@qatarhappening.com. Publisher: The Art of Business Chairman: Ahmed Hassan Bilal Editor-in-Chief: Nasser Ahmed Hassan Bilal Editor: Ashlee Starratt 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 New Media Manager: Serah Mary Sampath Web Coordinator: Imran Khan Administrative & Marketing Coordinator: Mirasol Vinculada Distribution & Accounts: Lanie Fillo-Pana Contributors: Shahmim Akram, Sarah Al Motairi, Emily Alp,

Jacqueline Bodnar, Vicky Brighton, Francesca Cruz, George Delfino Fotografia, Rowad Ehlela, John Hunt, Jan Janssen – Viva Press, Lynsey Riach, Carl Roberts, Dr. Steffen Sommer, Mimi Teferra

Also in this issue, we’re tagging along with a local Qatari non-profit that’s striving to make our community a better place, plus, going behind the microphone with the Qatar Toastmasters and giving away a delectable dinner for two at The Torch Doha hotel in our monthly QH Grab-Bag contest. We hope you enjoy every page!

QATAR HAPPENING (QH) is published 12 times a year by The Art of Business, Doha, Qatar, an associate of Ahmed Hassan Bilal Group.

Thank you for making us a part of your lives,

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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SPECIAL PROMOTION AHB Group Chairman, Mr. Ahmed Hassan Bilal

By Ashlee Starratt Selected photography by Jessie Palanca Additional images courtesy of Harry Ramsden's World Famous Fish & Chips

It’s coastal cuisine all the way from the UK, as Qatar’s very own AHB Group opens its first franchise of Harry Ramsden’s World Famous Fish & Chips this October at The Pearl-Qatar’s Medina Centrale. We sat down with AHB’s Chairman, Mr. Ahmed Hassan Bilal, to learn more about the legacy of the iconic brand and what it will offer Doha diners.

ince the very first Harry Ramsden’s World Famous Fish & Chips opened in 1928 in Guiseley, Leeds, the family-owned and operated restaurant would go on to become a UK national treasure. So much a part of the British seaside culture, no day spent wandering the sandy beaches or along the boardwalk would be complete without a quick pit-stop for fresh fish and chips – and for eight long decades, there’s been no place that could top Harry Ramsden’s.

Now, making its début in the Middle East, one family legacy passes to another as the first Harry Ramsden’s franchise outside of the UK opens its doors to Doha under the patronage of one of Qatar’s most prominent local, family-run businesses – AHB Group. Their Chairman, Mr. Ahmed Hassan Bilal tells us more. QH: Harry Ramsden’s Doha has been a long time coming and we’re thrilled the opening will be happening this month – a big congratulations to you and the team. What has the process been like to make this franchise a reality here in Qatar? AHB: It’s been a tremendous effort on behalf of both teams on either side of the world – here in Qatar and at Harry Ramsden’s headquarters in London. The AHB Group Food & Beverage Division, under the guidance of its General Manager, Louise Mortlock, has worked tirelessly from the planning stage all the way through to the grand opening. This is a milestone for our company and a milestone for Qatar’s culinary landscape. QH: Fish and chips are such an integral part of the UK culture – it represents a meal that families would share on an afternoon at the shore. Why did AHB Group decide to bring this concept in particular to Qatar?

AHB: For many years we’ve had a strong presence in the real estate market here and I felt it was time to branch out and diversify my business interests. Our F&B Division has been going strong with the launch of our original concept, Crunch Cantina, now open at Novo Cinemas on The Pearl, serving healthy juices, salads and sandwiches to people going to the cinema. We also have our other two new ventures, the German Bakery Company (GBC) and Coffee Planet. Under the auspices of AHB Group, GBC is the only approved importer and distributor of authentic parbaked German breads and pastries to Qatar. While Coffee Planet produces some of the region’s most fragrant coffee blends using its very own unique, alternative brewing methods. And, of course, Chowking is one of the country’s most popular Chinese and Filipino fast-food chains and another one of our subsidiaries. So I wanted to continue to expand – but I’m very choosy. I didn’t want to bring just anything… I wanted to bring a brand. And with its strong history, reputation for quality, and with 40 outlets across the UK, Harry Ramsden’s was a natural choice. QH: This will be the very first Harry Ramsden’s outlet in the Middle East. You and your team must be incredibly proud of that. Can you describe that feeling?

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Fancy a burger? Take a bite of their juicy Chicken New Yorker

AHB: We are indeed very proud to be bringing a new concept like Harry Ramsden’s to Qatar, and I am looking forward to the grand opening very much.

Harry's array of luscious treats for a sweet ending

QH: How did AHB Group become involved in bringing the Harry Ramsden’s concept to life in Qatar? Did the franchise approach you? Or did AHB Group reach out first? AHB: We approached them and we made the connection. Our General Manager for New Projects, Andy Merris, brought me the proposal and I said yes. And I don’t say yes to everything. We saw a gap in the market for a restaurant like this and, as mentioned, this will be the first one in the Middle East. Although, I’m trying to get them to go to Dubai as well…I said ‘Dubai is booming – why don’t you also open up there? ’But for Qatar, there are only a few places here that sell fish and chips, and Harry Ramsden’s will be a high-end addition to the market. QH: Tell us a bit about the menu? Harry’s serves much more than only fish and chips.

– The iconic dish that started it all Fish & Chips Harry Ramsden's World Famous

The signature Caesar salad topped with fresh, grilled fish

AHB: Currently we are importing all our fish fresh and directly from the UK in accordance with Harry Ramsden’s brand standards. Our diners will be able to enjoy traditional smoked haddock, salmon fishcakes, plaice and whole-tail Scottish scampi. QH: Currently, there are no other F&B concepts like Harry Ramsden’s here in Qatar. With such a large UK expat population here in Doha, this will certainly be a taste of home for them. Do you think the Qatari market will be equally receptive?

AHB: There are many, many items – not only fish and chips. Harry’s menu is extensive and includes options such as hamburgers, spatchcock chicken, BBQ ribs and chicken wings, traditional British pies and even a breakfast menu and a children’s menu. The ingredients are fresh and the preparation is top-notch. There’s something for everyone.

AHB: Actually, fish is one our main staples in the Qatari diet, and I know the market here requires such a restaurant. Whether it’s hamburgers or fish and chips, the younger generation especially enjoys this kind of food – I speak from my own experience with my grandchildren. But they say seeing is believing, and I’m very optimistic about the appeal of our menu to a wider market.

QH: How is your Restaurant Division sourcing fresh quality ingredients for Harry Ramsden’s menu products? Are items imported directly from the UK, or sourced locally/regionally?

QH: You must have had a chance to sample some of the menu items that diners can choose from. Do you have a favourite item?

AHB: Myself, being the owner, I like all of the menu. [Smiles]. QH: Why do you think the Harry Ramsden’s brand has been so successful in the UK and are you confident that its success will be replicated here in Qatar? AHB: It’s a brand that’s stood the test of time – 87 years in the UK market is a testament to its quality and longevity. The menu is classic, simple, yet flavourful, and at a competitive price – I’m confident the people of Qatar will also love it. n For more information on Harry Ramsden’s World Famous Fish & Chips visit www.harryramsdens.co.uk. To learn more about AHB Group and its Food & Beverage outlets call 4442-8877 or visit www.ahbqatar.com.

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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

The Precious Pearl Whoever said diamonds are a girl’s best friend (we’re lookin’ at you Marilyn!), clearly hadn’t set foot in the newly re-vamped and re-invigorated Pearl Lounge at the Doha Marriott. One of Doha’s first original nightclubs, it was long in need of a good re-furb. Gone are the dingy chairs and dank atmosphere, and in are funky Art Deco furniture, a paparazzi ‘selfie’ wall, floor-to-ceiling pearl-themed wall murals, new light fixtures and sound system and a whole brighter ambiance. It’s fresh, it’s funky, it’s fun – and we love it! Flip to page 30 and get the inside edge.

Wheelie Woes

here I’m from, in the land of the Great White North, there are three very distinct sensory elements that mark October’s arrival: the smell of freshly raked, burning leaves, the cold hit of morning frost in your nostrils, and the spicy-sweet aroma of hot, home-made pumpkin pie – a staple on every Canadian Thanksgiving dinner table. As a Canadian expat in Qatar, October still carries a twinge of nostalgia for these memories – I’ve not felt the icy breath of a Nova Scotia winter in nearly four years now. But even here in Doha, there’s still a perceptible shift that indelibly marks the change in season. It’s like a switch flips and one day we wake up and can brave the morning walk to our car without breaking into a sweat, the sandstorms begin to blow in, and the clouds begin to murmur their rumours of rain.

So one of our QH staffers just recently got a new set of wheels – bicycle wheels that is. But when they went for a spin along the Corniche they got flagged by the cops who told them no biking is allowed. Here’s what we don’t understand…Doha’s not a walking or cycling-friendly city due to all the construction – yet the one ideal outdoor space to get some exercise is prohibited to cyclists? We get that because so many people use the Corniche on a daily basis they probably don’t want it to become congested with bikes on top of that. But how about at least letting us ride during certain hours of the day – such as in the early morning when foot-traffic is less?

But if there’s one thing that signals the arrival of October in Doha it’s its namesake celebration of German food, music and culture – Oktoberfest! Yes, it’s that time of year again. From bratwursts to lederhosen we’re celebrating everything Bavarian in a very special feature interview with Austrian band Guat Drauf who will once again grace the stage at the InterContinental Doha for the city’s largest Oktoberfest party. We hope to see you in the tent and on the dance-floor! Speaking of German delicacies, our own AHB Group's German Bakery Company is also proud to take part in Hospitality Qatar's fair at QNCC this October 13-15. The Middle East's only supplier of authentic par-baked German breads and pastries, come visit their stand and try some fresh and delicious samples. October also marks the return of our beloved Sundowner Sessions at the Sharq Village & Spa’s Al Dana terrace (our cover feature this issue!), and one of the city’s most iconic original nightspots, the Doha Marriott’s Pearl Lounge, has just had a new face-lift and we were lucky enough to snag an invite to its relaunch party – so flip to our Entertainment section and check out our review. There’s loads more to keep you occupied in our pages all month long – we share the stage with the Doha Players as their production of Shakespeare’s The Tempest heats up at QNCC, we head over to Toro Toro Doha for some pan-Latin fare that’s truly a cut above, and we look ahead at the 2022 FIFA World Cup with a sneak peek at the calibre of teams slated to face-off on Qatar’s home-turf. So keep us by your side for the next four weeks and you won’t go wrong! See you next month,

Much Love For Mamig We have to give a big shout-out this month to Katara’s Mamig Restaurant and Chef Zarmig. This incredible Armenian-Lebanese eatery was the location for a recent baby shower we hosted for a fellow QH team member and they went the extra mile to make us all feel welcome. From a custom-made cake, to flowers and pink balloons, every gesture was above and beyond. The staff was friendly and warm – not missing a beat even as half a dozen small children ran about the place, and Chef Zarmig even brought in the band from Mamig’s sister restaurant Aziza to perform just for the shower. A massive thank you to Chef Zarmig and her team for making us all feel like family!

Kitchen Nightmares Ashlee Starratt Editor

Top Of The Twitter-Verse @Justin_D_Martin

e to freak out, and also to It’s raining in #Doha, which causes peopl ally. gener rse unive the in reassess their place

We were shocked to hear that a popular new restaurant on the Corniche was recently shut down by Baladiya after a video surfaced on social media showing feral cats wandering in and out of the kitchen. We hope this doesn’t affect their reputation as the food is quite nice there! Although, we guess it’s a good thing that Baladiya is so stringent with its inspection policies – in a hot climate like Qatar’s there’s no room for error when it comes to food handling.

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With unbeatable views, the new Panorama restaurant at The Torch ly! is on a whole other level – literal

This month’s QH Grab-Bag is all about indulgence, as we’re giving away a sumptuous Friday night Seafood Extravaganza dinner for two at The Torch Doha’s newlyopened Panorama restaurant! To participate, head over to the Qatar Happening Facebook page where the winner will be selected on October 12.

Images courtesy of The Torch Doha

wo lucky QH readers will dine under the stars on the 50th floor of The Torch Doha, overlooking the city skyline. Their preeminent new culinary destination focuses on contemporary European cuisine where the chef emphasizes the use of seasonal produce and high-quality ingredients. The result on the plate? A thoroughly modern cuisine that’s luxurious, yet approachable.

About The Torch Doha At 300 metres high and with 360-degree panoramic views across the city, The Torch is the centre-piece of Doha’s vibrant sports city – Aspire Zone. The iconic five-star luxury hotel features 51 floors, a revolving restaurant and a cantilevered swimming pool anchored to the 19th floor. The unique structure of the hotel includes 163 rooms and suites equipped with a unique iPad in-room solution mood-lighting system with 12 different colours and LED TVs. Hotel guests also have access to the adjacent Villaggio Mall via a private walkway.

In October, Panorama introduces seafood specialties featuring exquisite platters of fresh lobsters, langoustines, a sea bass crispy fillet, and traditional Spanish seafood paella. Their Seafood Extravaganza will see their specialty chefs present an exclusive buffet of salads, appetizers, sushi corner, cold seafood corner and an Italian antipasti station. Signature dishes include an unctuous serving of grilled Omani lobster sautéed with mushrooms, brioche, brown lemon butter and a green tea sauce, and their melt-in-your-mouth slow-cooked short ribs with a sweet corn purée, baby spinach, glazed baby vegetables and a red grape jus.

The Torch prides itself on the calibre of its cuisine, as talented chefs offer a sophisticated experience drawn from the very best international flavours. The hotel features three restaurants, a Tea Garden and four lounges: Three-Sixty is a breathtaking revolving restaurant on the 47th floor offering vista views of the city, Panorama is a contemporary European restaurant recently opened on the 50th floor, and Flying Carpet is an all-day dining restaurant with live cooking stations, located on the Mezzanine 2 level.

Other delicacies to tempt you can be found on their a la carte menu where main courses can be selected. You’ll find dishes like duo of prawns and hammour, shrimp biryani, hammour sayadia, lobster thermidor, plus a decadent table-side dessert trolley service. Available from 7:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m., the Seafood Extravaganza package is valued at QR 280 per person.

The two-level Health Club includes a cantilevered swimming pool – the highest in Doha – massage rooms and fitness facilities with state-of-the-art equipment. Aspire Park is accessible within a three-minute walk and includes running tracks, large, open green spaces, an internal lake, restaurants and a café, which makes it a perfect spot to combine sports and leisure. Proud to be part of Doha’s sports city – Aspire Zone, The Torch’s concept and interior design is captivating for the high-end traveler. Its iconic silhouette, with a kinetic light display, is standing high at night on Doha’s skyline. For the duration of World Cup 2022 The Torch Doha will be the main hub for sports teams and personalities. For more information about the hotel visit www.thetorchdoha.com. n

Panorama's succulent signature lobster tail

The artful plating of the restaurant's beef filet

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ENTERTAINMENT

Top Picks

RADISSON BLU Oktoberfest

All-Month: Shehrazad. Enjoy a fun-filled evening of German snacks, beverages and good cheer in Shehrazad. For more information call 4428-1555.

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA THE CITY Hed Kandi

October 30: Strata Lounge. Come to Strata this October for the second Hed Kandi event. Enjoy stunning views of the Doha skyline from the 55th and 56th floors alongside the signature beats of Hed Kandi. Hed Kandi parties are renowned for world-class DJ sets, spectacular productions and extravagant live instrumental performances. For more information call 4015-8888.

THE ST. REGIS DOHA House Boutique

Wednesdays: Oyster Bay. Every Wednesday night, enjoy house music under the stars at The St. Regis beach, where resident DJ DeLoona will play the latest deep-house tunes to help you energize before the weekend starts. For more information call 4446-0105, or email diningreservations@stregis.com.

THE RITZ-CARLTON The Noir At Level 23‎

THE GRAND HYATT Liquid Brunch

Fridays: Dunes. This year’s brunch gets right to the point! Spend your Fridays the right way and join Dunes for the one-and-only after-brunch session in Doha from 5:00 p.m. till 8:00 p.m. with resident DJ Santiago Vittorelli. Regular package is QR 199 with unlimited flow of house refreshments, or QR 299 for premium package with unlimited flow of selected refreshments. For more information call 4448-1280, or 7021-8094.

Daily: Level 23. The Noir band is back at Level 23! Enjoy your evenings in the most elegant, yet relaxed sky-lounge overlooking Doha’s evolving city skyline. The view dominates the front corner of the place with electrifying panoramas showcasing a different side of the city. With a signature menu serving up a variety of colourful refreshments and noted for its impeccably designed avant-garde interior, the chic décor creates the perfect spotlight for an unforgettable evening. For more information call 4484-8000, or email rc.dohrz.leads@ritzcarlton.com .

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ENTERTAINMENT

The Best Of Bavaria

By Jorge Granda Images courtesy of the InterContinental Doha

For the 12th year in a row, the InterContinental Doha is hosting its famous Oktoberfest from October 7-10. Gracing the stage once again amidst the pretzels and bratwursts, is Austrian band Guat Drauf. We caught up with the eight-man (and woman!) ensemble to get the party started! QH: So how long have you guys been playing together? GD: Guat Drauf started to perform in the year 2000, so we’re celebrating 15 years with our new Party On Stage performance. QH: You’ve played all over the world – and in Qatar many times before. What’s been your best Oktoberfest experience here? GD: Every year we’re amazed at how people in Qatar celebrate their Oktoberfest. The InterContinetal hotel prepares the perfect location for this every year with a tent near the sea, food and refreshments – everything very authentic and perfectly organized. QH: What sets your style of sound apart from other Austrian or German folkloric bands on the circuit?

Enjoy a buffet of traditional German dishes

GD: Guat Drauf doesn’t only play cover songs – we try to mix folkloric songs with a modern sound. So, for example, we mix accordion with rock guitar to create a much more powerful melody. QH: What will this year’s show be like? Anything new for Oktoberfest 2015? GD: We to make the same vigourous performance like last year – a mixture of showmanship, entertainment, games and music from folkloric to modern pop and rock covers. For our 15-year anniversary the band wrote an original song called ‘Party Ohne Ende’ (Party Without End). We’ll be playing it for the Oktoberfest crowd and it should be the motto for the evening!

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QH: We’ve been lucky enough to see you guys on-stage before – and you know how to get the crowd pumping. GD: To see people having a good time is the best motivation for us – like our mission statement above, it’s a party without end! QH: Any memorable moments from last year that you can share with us? GD: For us, every year playing in Qatar is without doubt a highlight. We’re fascinated with this country – as it’s so different from central Europe. The whole week in Qatar is our best memory; we love partying with people from all over the world.

OKTOBERFEST 2015 Date: October 7-10 Location: InterContinental Doha Timings: Doors open from 8:00 p.m. Ticket Info: • QR 265, Wed, Thurs & Fri • QR 205, Saturday Oktoberfest tickets can be purchased directly from the hotel. Friday brunch timing will be from 12 noon till 4:00 p.m. The Oktoberfest brunch will have two packages, QR 265 for entrance and food, with drinks to be charged upon consumption, and QR 495 including special beverages. Contact Info: Call 4484-4444.

QH: Where do your travels take you throughout the year? GD: Guat Drauf performs mainly in Germany and Austria, but we’ve also had shows across the whole of Europe and in America – and, for sure, in Qatar. (Smiles). QH: Tell us something our readers may not know about you guys. GD: If you want to find out, the best way is to come to Oktoberfest and party with us! n

Guat Drauf is back with their traditional toe-tapping tunes for Oktoberfest 2015!

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ENTERTAINMENT the new sound he’ll be spinning in all clubs and KaRavan residencies worldwide. On ‘Dubai Meets Ibiza’, Pierre Ravan mixes deep and soulful sounds on a disc featuring tracks and remixes from Da Capo feat. Clara Hill, Kiko Navarro & DJ Fudge, Nacho Marco, jOHNNYDANGEROUs feat. Kenny Bobien, Jay-J and many others. The eclectic compilation also features Vince Watson’s signature track ‘Eminescence’, ‘The Journey’ by Rancido feat. Madison Groove, and many other deep-house beauties.

About Pierre Ravan One of the first fashion DJs in the world, Pierre Ravan has played in all four corners of the globe for some of the fashion world’s most influential designers. Paco Rabanne, Dolce & Gabbana, Roberto Cavalli, Thierry Mugler, Jean Paul Gaultier, and Elle Magazine have all graced their catwalks with Pierre Ravan’s unique sound. He has even been made the official DJ for MAC/Estée Lauder, Sean John, DKNY, Agent Provocateur, Galliano and Trussardi to name a few. Spinning on the international DJ circuit for well over a decade, Pierre is a well-respected DJ, producer and re-mixer bringing a new aura to the housemusic scene, with his unique variety he likes to call ‘spiritual house’. This is the perfect inter-fusion of his individual emphatic energy, ancient Persian heritage and a feel for the global dance-floor. His numerous remixes have all received high critical acclaim. Creating music in his element, Pierre Ravan generates an atmosphere of togetherness that makes his reputation precede him and keeps all types of audiences coming back for more.

Famed DJ Pierre Ravan will set up shop at the Sheraton for a special Doha performance

Ibiza Days & Doha Nights QH welcomes you to the 9 edition of KaRavan, the unique compilation concept from celebrated Dubai DJ Pierre Ravan. Credited with starting the house music movement in the UAE, he’ll be hitting the decks at the Sheraton Doha on October 15 hosted by Indigo VIP. Here’s the inside scoop… th

aRavan is Pierre Ravan’s personal concept based on music for all hours and minutes of the day, and follows a journey from a richer, rhapsodic sound, extending to a darker and tech-y mood, linking the beginning with the end. All of Pierre Ravan’s KaRavan compilation albums convey a message of unity through his music, starting in the day-time and stretching late into the night. After the success of last year’s KaRavan 8: Utopia release, Pierre Ravan is taking his musical journey to the next level with KaRavan 9, dedicating his timeless work ‘With Love From Dubai To Ibiza’ to connecting both cities with

Deep in the studio between Tallinn, Prague, Barcelona, Cologne and Dubai, and, after his successful release on the Peppermint Jam label last summer, Pierre finished his latest single for German label Conya as a highlight on WMC 10 named ‘Eyes Should Be Washed’. The track featured marked a collaboration with Spin Science of Estonia, plus new remixes by Jay Tripwire, Satoshi Fumi, and Brazilian Soul Crew. n

KARAVAN: WITH LOVE FROM DUBAI TO IBIZA (PART 9) Date: October 15 Location: Indigo VIP at the Sheraton Doha Featuring: DJ Pierre Ravan, DJ Jared McCulloch, Pyrokiss and Steve KZ Contact Info: For more information visit www.Iconic-Qatar.com, or follow them on Facebook.

INDIGO VIP OCTOBER EVENTS Oct 8: DJ Smokingroove Oct 22: RUN DOHA: Urban and dance classics and anthems Oct 29: DJ Mark Knight

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ENTERTAINMENT

(L-R) DJ The Sundowners' dream-team! Teferra Kinky D, DJ Carl Roberts and Mimi

There ain't no party like a Sundowners party!

Sunset Rhythm By Carl Roberts Images courtesy of Mimi Teferra

October 2 marks the kick-off to the fourth season of Sundowner Sessions on Al Dana Terrace at the Sharq Village & Spa. QH lets you in on a few new surprises on-deck as Doha’s discerning scenesters get ready to turn the patio into a dance-floor – Sundowners-style!

here’s no events team quite like the fine folks who bring us Sundowner Sessions, and over the course of three short seasons they’ve single-handedly transformed the Al Dana Terrace into the city’s top Friday destination hotspot. Come post-brunch or rock up at 4:00 p.m. with your dancing shoes ready, enjoy the extended happy hour and watch the last rays of the afternoon sun melt away into the Gulf waters. Then, it’s all about the night and, once again, a stellar line-up of regular DJ’s and guest artists will make sure it’s turned up loud.

Over the last three seasons, the venue was forced to expand as popularity increased and Sundowner stalwarts showed up in droves to worship the hot sounds and cool sunset. Spilling over into the Al Dana garden, and with the addition of a second dance-floor inside the restaurant where party-goers can catch a more urban flavour, Sundowners has become a festive force to be reckoned with. With an extra long happy hour from 4:00 p.m. till 7:00 p.m. guests can enjoy signature beverages mixed to perfection and discounts on some seriously succulent bites prepared by the critically-acclaimed Al Dana chefs. The fourth season of Sundowner Sessions touches down on October 2 with a Blood Moon Launch Party presided over by their top resident DJs and a huge surprise international guest. What’s a ‘blood moon’ you ask? Don’t freak out – it’s actually just a funky term for a lunar eclipse that turns the surface of the moon a deep reddish-orange. On the decks at this year’s season opener will be Sundowner fixtures DJs Carl Roberts and Kinky D. Regarded as pioneers in Qatar’s mounting nightlife scene, Kinky and Carl will be joined each week by Global DJs’ Jared McCulloch – arguably the most influential figure in Doha’s entertainment industry.

With new weekly themes and top local and international names taking the stage, this season also heralds the return of the popular live band concept for special sunset live sessions. Other new additions for October include the Garden Lounge – where you can enjoy shisha and have premium beverage service for a modest reservation fee, slightly removed from the chaos on the terrace. The Al Dana restaurant is also preparing a special Sundowners Menu with a slant towards the latest trends in modern sushi and seafood, while indoors will be serving a wide selection of specialty drinks to tantalize the taste-buds. A relaxed atmosphere, casual dress code, a threehour long happy hour, and no entrance fees for the terrace in the early evening are just a few of the perks of being a Sundowners devotee. So we’ll see you on the terrace as the light fades and the night heats up. No pretenses, no VIP’s, no attitudes – because lounging is a right, not a privilege. n For more information visit the Sundowners At Al Dana Terrace Facebook page.

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ENTERTAINMENT

Hollywood’s

uliette Lewis is suddenly hot again after having struggled to find good roles in the last five years. She made a minor comeback with her work in last year's highlyacclaimed August: Osage County, appeared in the avant-garde series Wayward Pines directed by M. Night Shyamalan, and is currently starring as a police detective in the ABC TV series Secrets and Lies which begins shooting its second season this autumn.

By Jan Janssen Interview and selected images courtesy of Viva Press

She built her star in Tinseltown with a string of seminal films in the 80’s and 90’s (Cape Fear, Natural Born Killers) followed later by the kinds of indie roles she’s become known for (Kalifornia, The Basketball Diaries, From Dusk Till Dawn), but Juliette Lewis is ever the sycophant. Turning the tables in 2004, she eschewed the screen for the stage, touring as the fierce front-woman of Juliette and the Licks up until 2009. It’s no coincidence then that her latest return to the big-screen is in the re-imagined 80’s girl-group takeoff Jem and the Holograms. QH caught up with Lewis in Pasadena to talk music and resurgence in Hollywood.

It's a decisive reversal of fortune for the 42-year-old Lewis who soared to stardom in the early 90’s with major roles in Strange Days, Natural Born Killers, Romeo Is Bleeding, and many more notable films, all the while enjoying a highly public romance with Brad Pitt. She faded from screen grace in the 00’s, however, and Lewis has recently admitted to battling with depression over the past decade. Today, she's determined to both reboot her life and rekindle her acting career. "I'm really excited about all the work I'm doing now and I feel revitalized," Lewis says. "I've tended to be my own worst enemy in the past and I've gotten tired of that. I'm still a rebel at heart, but now my energy is a lot more focused." Lewis will next be starring in the upcoming fantasy film, Jem and the Holograms, a family-style adventure that seeks to recapture the magic of the eponymous and much-beloved 80’s TV series. Lewis plays Erica Raymond, a villainous record executive who tries to manipulate Jem (Aubrey Peeples) who has been catapulted to pop stardom via YouTube. Molly Ringwald co-stars as Jem's Aunt Bailey. Juliette Lewis lives in Los Angeles where she continues to write music and is looking forward to touring again with her indie punk group Juliette and The Licks which disbanded in 2009. Her father, well-known character actor Geoffrey Lewis, died earlier this year.

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The daughter of late screen-star Geoffrey Lewis, Juliette has been forging her own path through Hollywood since the late 80's

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ENTERTAINMENT

Breakout star Audrey Peeples (with pink hair) takes on the lead role of Jem in the new Jem And The Holograms

QH: Juliette, your career seems to be taking off again? JL: (Laughs) It's so satisfying and exciting for me to be involved with a lot of different projects and getting to play great characters. It reminds me of how I felt when I started out as an actress and I was suddenly playing in a lot of good movies. The difference now is that I understand so much more about acting and about myself. When you've gone through a lot in life it's going to help you add a lot more to every performance you give. I think I'm a much better actor now. QH: What can you tell us about your new film, Jem and the Holograms? JL: It's a family kind of film and it was so much fun to work on it. I play the villain and it was a role that was originally written for a man. They had first asked me to play another character and then they changed their thinking and decided to offer me the nasty part. (Laughs) It's a really delicious kind of character. QH: You don't normally play in comedies or family films? JL: No! That's why it was such a wonderful experience to do this kind of light-hearted family kind of story because I'm usually playing dark characters and working on very serious movies. Maybe that's why they wanted me to play the mean character! (Laughs) But it was kind of the perfect project for me to do because I'm feeling a lot more light-hearted about my life these days.

QH: Another big, new project you're involved with is the TV series Secrets and Lies. How do you feel about playing a very enigmatic police detective like Andrea Cornell? JL: I've never had the chance to play a character like this. She's anything but the typical kind of policewoman or female detective. This was also another case where the role was originally written for a man and I liked the idea of taking it on and making it a strong woman's role. QH: She's a hard character to like, isn't she?

She doesn't like to give out a lot of information about herself or provide a lot of signs to people about who she is or what she's thinking. That's what I loved about playing her. It forces you to be very attentive to even the smallest detail and gesture because they take on much more significance than if you're playing a more naturally expressive individual. QH: Was it fun acting opposite Ryan Philippe (who plays the prime suspect in Lewis's murder investigation) in Secrets and Lies so many years after you worked on The Way of the Gun (2000) together?

JL: I think it's more the case that she's difficult to get to know. But I think audiences can appreciate her intensity and dedication. She's a strong and determined woman who goes about her work very carefully and you have to respect that about her. Andrea is also a complex character and it's always interesting to see how all those layers unfold over the course of the series. That's one of the things that makes a TV series like this exciting to do because it allows you to develop the character more deeply and it's not just playing the same character in the same situations over and over again which has always made me very resistant to doing a series in the past.

JL: It was so beautiful to working with Ryan again. There's something incredibly special and fascinating about being able to reconnect with someone that you got to know when you were both very young and suddenly pick up fifteen years later! Ryan does such great work here and it's one of the best performances I've ever seen him give. He brings a lot of gravitas to his character. He's the prime suspect for the entire film (suspected of killing a young child) and you're constantly wondering about him.

QH: Your character is very poker-faced and difficult to get to know. A lot of people will find her disagreeable. Was that hard for you to adapt to?

JL: I don't think we've changed that much in terms of our personalities, but life has a way of changing your perspective and outlook on things. You feel different. We were both pretty young when we made that movie and we've each gone through much in our lives and it was so interesting to get to know each other again.

JL: The hardest part of playing her was that her personality is completely different from my own. I'm very exuberant and extroverted whereas she's very guarded, serious and scientific in her approach to everything.

QH: Do you think you've both changed a lot over the last fifteen years?

QH: Did you have real-life detectives acting as your technical advisors on the show?

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Juliette with her father, the late actor Geoffrey Lewis

JL: Yes. I worked with Jim Clemente, an FBI agent, who taught me how to study a crime scene and a lot of other technical points that any investigator or detective is going to use to try to solve a case. There's a huge amount of science to it. But going beyond that, my character is obsessed with her work and I had a natural affinity when it came to portraying her compulsive side! (Laughs) QH: Your character is very serious and has a lot of very distinctive personal traits. How much did you contribute to that? JL: Most of her mannerisms and behavioural traits were already laid out in the script, and I've tried to focus more on her psychological state of mind. She uses silence, for example, as a means of unnerving suspects. I also liked the fact that she has an odd [sensual] aura to her and her trench-coat is of course a wink to Columbo [the classic Peter Falk detective]! (Laughs) QH: Are you still anxious to work on your music and tour again with your band, Juliette and The Licks?

ous record Juliette Lewis will portray villain rsal executive Erica Raymond in Unive Pictures' Jem And The Holograms

On-stage with Juliette and the Licks

JL: I'm anxious to start touring again next year whenever we can find the time. It depends on how many acting commitments I have. Music is still my deepest way of communicating and connecting with an audience. I feel so much energy and passion getting up on-stage and feeling the vibe of the audience and just pushing yourself to the limit in terms of the performance. It's very different from what I do as an actor. QH: You've spoken in other interviews about going through very difficult personal struggles in your life. Are you past all that now? JL: I've discovered an inner strength that I was never able to harness in my life before. I was always dealing with fears and anxieties that were inhibiting me and preventing me from being happy even in situations where I should have been very happy. Sometimes you're able to finally see all the good things about being alive and not worrying about things you can't control. The hardest part lately has been dealing with my father's illness [ED: he died several months after this interview took place after suffering from Alzheimer's disease] but I feel good about being able to realize a lot of the hopes that my father had for me. He always believed in me more than I did. I want to be able to live up to those expectations. n

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ENTERTAINMENT

From pearls to pop art The Pearl Lounge at the Doha Marriott is shining bright

Party

WHAT’S NEW?

Happenings

Theme Nights

By Jorge Granda

Photography by Jessie Palanca

Unless you live under a rock we’re sure you’ve heard of one of the city’s most iconic original nightclubs – The Pearl Lounge at the Doha Marriott. After a recent, much-needed facelift, it’s back in business as a soon-to-be powerplayer on Doha’s nightlife circuit. QH dropped by its re-launch party to check out its pearlicious new décor, vibrant ambiance and mingle with the invite-only crowd.

ince opening in 2004 The Pearl Lounge held rank as one of the best nightspots in the city. With Qatar’s eventual construction boom and new hotels with new nightclubs cropping up all over the landscape, it quickly fell off the radar and stayed there for a number of years. Little did the party-going public know, but the team at the Doha Marriott had big plans for the space, and after a summer of renovations, they’ve done an incredible job of returning the club to its former glory.

The re-vamped lounge is chic, yet funky, and the updated décor seductive, with a red, black and white colour scheme dominating the space. The entire venue is decorated with pop wall-art of beautiful people and, of course, a few pearlescent highlights. This is a whole new club where you can immerse yourself in a different world, and party-goers can dance the night away while sipping their favourite refreshments. The music is outstanding, with some hot, new DJs on the decks – and on the night of the launch party they even brought in an electric violinist to set the mood for a fantastic night on the town. One of the most notable changes in The Pearl Lounge’s ambiance was due to the crowd – simply sophisticated. I really hope they manage to keep it that way and stay selective on the door. As it stands today, the new Pearl Lounge is grand on a top-notch scale – the bar area is big enough so you can easily order refreshments without knocking elbows with anyone, while the service is quick and the staff attentive. Every night there’s a different theme with a distinct entertainment concept for every taste, plus their daily happy hour is great. From 5:00 p.m. till 8:00 p.m. you can enjoy selected beverages for only QR 27. The new Pearl Lounge has all the elements to become a distinctive party hub – and we’ll certainly be back to hit the dance-floor any day of the week.

Friday: Khaleeji & Moroccan Night with DJ Imran Saturday: Bollywood Night with DJ Willy Sunday: 1001Arabian Nights with DJ Imran Monday: Ladies Night with DJ Willy Tuesday: Mash-Up Night with DJ Willy Wednesday: Arabic Night with DJ Imran Thursday: Diva’s Night with DJ Willy

Never Miss A Game! Calling all sports fans! Catch your favourite sporting events live on the big-screen at The Pearl Lounge, including football, rugby, cricket and more! Enjoy delicious light bites and select beverages while cheering on your number one teams. n THE PEARL LOUNGE Location: The Doha Marriott Timings: 5:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m., daily Dress Code: Classy Entry Fees: Entry is allowed to individuals ages 21-years-old and above only. As per regulation, all residents and Qatari male nationals who wish to enter must apply for a registration card. Fee for gents is QR 100 and ladies QR 50 upon presentation of a valid Qatar residence ID card or original passport with a valid Qatar entry visa. All Pearl Lounge registration cards are valid for six months. Contact Info: Call 4429-8444.

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VIRGIN RECOMMENDS

QH BRINGS YOU THE TOP STAFF PICKS FROM THE MEGASTORE NAME: RAMI AZIZIAH STORE SECTION: SHREDDER’S PLANET TIME AT VIRGIN: 2 YEARS

Best Part of My Job:“We’re just a different music store – we take care of our professional musicians, servicing their instruments and selling highend products for professionals. Here the market is for beginner musicians, but we wanted to do something different by bringing professional-standard instruments for professional musicians.” GHS ELECTRIC STRINGS Since the big-hair metal bands of the 1980’s, GHS has been the choice of strings for the likes of Megadeth, Metallica and the Red Hot Chili Peppers. Coming in roller-wound nickel and stainless varieties, they’re hand-made and still produced in Michigan, U.S.A. in the same classic packaging. We also sell signature sets from Pink Floyd’s David Gilmour and iconic guitarist Eric Johnson. Nickel strings produce a bright tone and are great for jazz, blues and metal. Retail price: QR 55-QR 100, depending on gauge and material.

RANDALL AMPLIFIERS These amps are legendary and have been in use since the 1970’s by all rockers. Why? Because they’re the king of high-gain sound in the industry. For the Doha market we’re selling the head and the cabin speaker as a combo for a very good price of QR 9,000 – considering the head alone costs QR 8,800. We also sell the Metallica signature Kirk Hammett Series of amp as well. Retail price: QR 5,000-QR 9,000 depending on size.

CORDOBA CLASSICAL GUITAR Virgin Megastore is the only authorized dealer of this original Spanish guitar in Qatar and it’s been one of our bestsellers of the last five years. People really miss the golden age of good Spanish guitar – and Arabic and Spanish music share a lot of close elements. The Gypsy Kings use Cordoba, and this model is handmade with spruce-tip and Canadian cedar wood, with Fishman pick-ups, mahogany fretboard and a gold-plated key-set. The unique nylon strings used by Cordoba are essential for perfecting that unmistakable flamenco sound. Retail price: QR 2,800-QR 3,300.

STAGG GIBSON-CUT L400-WH GUITAR This Belgian brand is high-quality at an affordable price. It’s all original material – mahogany and walnut woodwork, rosewood fretboard, copper frets and Humbucker pick-ups with nickel-plated cover. A bit smaller than some other models, it’s a great starter instrument for those who like to rock. Retail price: QR 1,372.

MICHAEL KELLY CUTAWAY ACOUSTIC GUITAR Well-known on the U.S. country music scene, this is one brand that’s a popular seller amongst locals. Before we brought them to Virgin, there wasn’t any other instrument like it in the market here – you would find other high-standard brands such as Yamaha, but people wanted an original item from a unique source. Featuring mother-of-pearl inlay, hand-crafted with spruce and cedar, with mahogany fretboard and Fishman pick-ups, it’s one high-end instrument. Retail price: QR 2,855-QR 3,800 depending on model.

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Spotlight On Movies There’s nothing to fear this October…except for these five freaky flicks!

VICTOR FRANKENSTEIN

SCOUTS GUIDE TO THE ZOMBIE APOCALYPSE

CRIMSON PEAK

Drama, Horror, Sci-Fi Told from Igor's perspective, we see the troubled young assistant's dark origins, his redemptive friendship with the young medical student Viktor Von Frankenstein, and become eyewitnesses to the emergence of how Frankenstein became the man – and the legend – we know today.

Comedy, Horror Three scouts, on the eve of their last camp-out, discover the true meaning of friendship when they attempt to save their town from a zombie outbreak.

Drama, Fantasy, Horror In the aftermath of a family tragedy, an aspiring author is torn between love for her childhood friend and the temptation of a mysterious outsider. Trying to escape the ghosts of her past, she’s swept away to a house that breathes, bleeds...and remembers.

Stars: Daniel Radcliffe, James McAvoy, Jessica Brown Findlay

Stars: Patrick Schwarzeneggar, Halston Sage, Tye Sheridan

Stars: Jessica Chastain, Charlie Hunnam, Tom Hiddleston

QH Fun Fact: Rather than wear a wig or grow out his hair for the role of Igor, Daniel Radcliffe had hair extensions put in, suffering through the uncomfortable look and wearing them as his own hair throughout production. Ewwwww!

QH Fun Fact: Has it ever dawned on anyone that a zombie apocalypse could 100 per cent be avoided if we just buried the dead with their shoelaces tied together? Just sayin’…

QH Fun Fact: Director Guillermo Del Toro has reportedly said this film was the best set he’s ever worked on! That’s saying something – because we thought nothing could top his conceptual set design of 2006’s Pan’s Labyrinth…

Action, Adventure, Fantasy The last witch hunter is all that stands between humanity and the combined forces of the most horrifying witches in history. Better hope he’s got game! Stars: Vin Diesel, Rose Leslie, Elijah Wood

THE LAST WITCH HUNTER

QH Fun Fact: The movie’s screenplay had the honour of making the 2010 Blacklist as one of the most-liked, unmade scripts of the year.

Adventure, Biography, Drama Not for those with vertigo or fear of heights, this film tells the story of French high-wire artist Philippe Petit's attempt to cross the Twin Towers of the New York World Trade Center in 1974. Stars: Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Ben Kingsley, Charlotte Le Bon QH Fun Fact: This cinematic re-telling is based on the same book as James Marsh’s 2008 documentary, Man On Wire.

THE WALK

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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

Reggae Nights

Thurs & Fri: Oyster Bay beach. Get back into the rhythm of the Caribbean with live music at Oyster Bay Live. Enjoy classic reggae, funk and R&B hits every weekend as you relax on The St. Regis beach overlooking the stunning skyline of Doha. Minimum spend QR 2,000 for VIP tables only. For more information call 4446-0105, or e-mail diningreservations@stregis.com.

REGULAR PROMOTIONS HILTON DOHA All At 25

THE ST. REGIS DOHA

#SHOUT Vol. 6 October 9: The Rooftop. #SHOUT at The Rooftop, is a non-stop Friday session with international guest DJs to keep you entertained until the sun goes down. Special guests include DJs Sax on Legz, DJ Liutic, DJ Sabrina Terence and others. Entrance fee is QR 150 for gentlemen (with welcome refreshment), and free entrance for ladies plus refreshments as per consumption. For more information call 4446-0105 or email diningreservations@stregis.com.

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

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 taken on a new look, so join them in-style for the nightclubs re-opening and unwind in chic and elegant surroundings. For more information call 4429-8444.

MARRIOTT MARQUIS CITY CENTER DOHA Rugby World Cup

All-Month: Champions. Enjoy a great atmosphere and watch the biggest rugby event of the year on over 40 TV screens. Check out Champions Facebook page for date and time fixtures. Entry fee may apply on select days. For more information call 4419-6100 or visit www.marriottmarquisdohadining.com.

Oktoberfest

October 26-30: Champions. Let your spirits soar high this Oktoberfest, as the hotel presents a range of special German craft beverages and scrumptious German delicacies that will bring one of the year’s best celebrations to life. Entry is QR 50 on Friday, October 30 only! From 5:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. For more information call 4419- 6100, or visit www.marriottmarquisdohadining.com.

Happy Hour Sundowners

Daily: Ipanema. Join Ipanema for their new Happy Hour Sundowners featuring Brazilian mixes and lounge music with a combination of mouthwatering boteco snacks. Get the first boteco dish complimentary with your beverage. Promotional items start from QR 30. From 5:30 p.m. till 7:30 p.m. For more information call 4419-6100, or visit www.marriottmarquisdining.com.

Quiz Night

October 12: Champions. Participate with a maximum of six per team to win the 1st prize of QR 3,000. From 7:30 p.m. till 9:30 p.m. For more information call 4419-6100, or visit www.marriottmarquisdohadining.com.

RADISSON BLU Laughter Factory

October 26 & 27: Shehrazad. Three excellent comedians with a talent for smart comic-writing and an off-beat stage presence will create a hilarious two-night event. Doors open from 5:00 p.m., show starts at 8:00 p.m. Admission is QR 140 including one sponsored beverage. Must be 21 or older to enter and valid I.D. required at the door. For more information call 4428-1555.

THE GRAND HYATT Salsa Night

Mondays: Rocca. Let’s salsa! Ladies put on your high heels, grab a partner and dance salsa every Monday from 9:00 p.m. till 1:00 a.m. at Rocca. Free entry for ladies and QR 60 for gentlemen. For more information call 4448-1272, or 7021-8096.

Daily: Zawaya. Enjoy selected beverages for QR 25 during happy hour from 5:00 p.m. till 8:00 p.m. For more information call 4423-3115 or email doha.restaurants@hilton.com.

Happiest Hours

Daily: Blanco Lounge. Indulge in the daily happy hour from 6:00 p.m. till 9:00 p.m. Relax with your favourite beverage and feel the vibe of Cafe Del Mar chill-out music with a view. For more information call 5536-0347, or 4423-3413, or email doha.restaurants@hilton.com.

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA Paloma Bandoke Night

Mondays: Paloma. If you think you’ve got the talent to sing, this is your night to shine! Calling all talent-‘less’ voices of Doha – if courage is what you’re missing, Paloma gives you a ‘flaming’ special refreshment for all singers before or after your performance! Also, enjoy a selection of nachos with a pitcher of frozen beverages starting at QR 128. For more information call 4484-4444.

Taco Tuesday

Tuesdays: Paloma. Tuesday night is Taco Night! Chef Salvador brings you the authentic flavours of real Mexican tacos. Choose five different varieties from the taco menu and top it 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 a complimentary fruity, frozen Mexican refreshment from 8:00 p.m. till late. But a party isn’t a party without a mystery piñata, and all the girls are welcome to stand a chance to bring home exciting prizes. QR 80 entrance fee is applicable for men. For more information call 4484-4444.

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Thursday Vibes

Thursdays: Lava. With the resident DJ on the decks with his awesome tunes, Thursdays will become the only night you can possibly think of going to and, most importantly, leave with the excitement of coming back the next week! For more information call 4484-4444.

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 on 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 item like a Louis Vuitton bag and more! For more information call 4015-8888 or email doharestaurants@ihg.com.

After Work Evenings

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

Bucket Day

Fridays: Hive. Quench your thirst with a bucket of six beverages for the price of four on selected refreshments for QR 125, while listening to funky tunes from the ‘70s. From 5:00 p.m. till midnight. For more information call 4015-8888 or email doharestaurants@ihg.com.

KEMPINSKI RESIDENCES & SUITES Extended Happy Hour

Daily: The Lounge. From 7:00 p.m. till 9:00 p.m. enjoy a surprise highlighted beverage experience with a 50% discount. For more information call 4405-3325, email restaurants.doha@kempinski.com, or visit www.kempinski.com/doha.

Cosmopolitan Ladies Night

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

Gents Night Out With DJ Kinky D

Wednesdays: The Lounge. Gentlemen can enjoy a 20% discount on selected refreshments and signature burger items, with entertainment by DJ Kinky D. Complimentary entrance. Wednesdays from 9:00 p.m. till 12:00 midnight. For more information call 4405-3325, email restaurants.doha@kempinski.com, or visit www.kempinski.com/doha.

Deep House Night Out

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

LA CIGALE Brand-New Sky View

Daily: Sky View. Aren’t you excited to 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 cherish the nights all year round. Enjoy the most vibrant mixes while savouring light snacks, house beverages and sushi. No entrance fee and no minimum charges during weekdays. (Rules and regulations apply). For more information call 4428-8204/888.

MARRIOTT MARQUIS CITY CENTER DOHA After-Brunch Sessions

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.

Weekend Vibes

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.

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 Bohemia Sessions

Wed & Thurs: Bohemia. Enjoy a signature ambiance, innovative refreshments and chilled tunes and vibes from DJs Longplayer and B Sound. Spread the word and join the fun! 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.

MÖVENPICK HOTEL DOHA Ladies Night

Tuesdays: Jazz Up. It’s mid-week and the weekend seems just too far away. Grab your girls, ditch the heels and hit ‘play’ on blowing off some Tuesday steam. With one free beverage on arrival and 25% off the tempting refreshments menu, Jazz Up is undoubtedly the perfect, cozy setting for a chat with your crew. From 5:00 p.m. until 1:00 a.m. For more information call 4429-1138.

SHERATON DOHA Midnight Happy Hour

Sun-Wed: Irish Harp. In the Irish Harp from Sundays to Wednesdays, 11:00 p.m. till midnight, enjoy selected refreshments starting from QR 25-QR 30. 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 them every Wednesday. For more information call 4485-3000.

THE GRAND HYATT A1 Nights By Xtremer Entertainment

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

House of Groove

Thursdays: Dunes. It’s all about house music every Thursday at Dunes with a night celebration of house tunes from resident DJ Santiago and guest DJs on rotation. Free entry and no minimum charge. For more information call 7021-8094.

After Office With Kinky D

Mondays: Dunes. Throw out your work shoes and join Dunes every Monday to enjoy DJ Kinky D’s finest tunes. Happy hour from 5:00 p.m. till 10:00 p.m. For more information call 7021-8094.

W DOHA ‘The VIBE’ Ladies Night

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

After Work Aperitivo

Sat-Fri: Wahm. De-stress and head down to Wahm for an after work aperitivo with 50% off on all refreshments. From 5:00 p.m. till 8:00 p.m. For more information call 4453-5323.

Arabian Nights

Saturdays: Crystal Club. Crystal proudly presents Arabesque nights, spinning popular Arabic numbers along with DJ Imran mixing the best of R&B and commercial house throughout the night. From 10:00 p.m. onwards. For more information call 4453-5323.

Dance N’ Fly Ladies Night

Wednesdays: Crystal. Ladies, gather your girlfriends and head to Crystal club’s Dance N’ Fly Ladies Night featuring resident DJ Masse mixing up the latest tunes to make the night fabulous. Ladies receive three complimentary refreshments from 10:00 p.m. till 12:00 midnight. For more information call 4453-5323.

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ENTERTAINMENT

Misturado ess Park Crowne Plaza Doha - The Busin

Directory

Strata Lounge InterContinental Doha The City

Pearl Lounge Doha Marriott

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

Beach Bar Lounge The Four Seasons Belgian Café InterContinental Doha Bohemia Marsa Malaz Kempinski Bubbles On Two Radisson Blu Champions Marriott Marquis City Center Doha Cigar Lounge Sharq Village & Spa

4448-4800

4494-8888

4484-4444

4035-5555

4428-1428

4419-6100

4425-6666

Crystal Lounge W Doha

4453-5135

D’Illusion Gokulam Park

4470-8888

Dunes The Grand Hyatt Fahrenheit Horizon Manor Hotel

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

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

Liquidity Crowne Plaza Doha - The Business Park Madison Piano Bar La Cigale

4484-4444

Pearl Lounge Doha Marriott

4429-8888

Qube Radisson Blu

4428-1428

Rocca The Grand Hyatt

4448-1234

Shehrazad Radisson Blu

4428-1428

Sky View La Cigale

4428-8888

4446-0000

4402-3333

4429-1111

4445-5444

4484-4444

4446-2222 Spike’s Lounge Doha Golf Club

4496-0777

Strata Lounge InterContinental Doha The City

4015-8888

The Irish Harp Sheraton Doha

4485-4444

The Library Radisson Blu

4428-1428

4448-4800

4408-7777

4428-8888

4448-1234 Manhattan Radisson Blu

Paloma InterContinental Doha

4428-1428

4445-5444

The Library Bar & Cigar Lounge The Four Seasons

4494-8888

Glo Marriott Marquis City Center Doha

4419-6100

Misturado Crowne Plaza Doha - The Business Park

Habanos The Ritz-Carlton

4484-8000

Orion Radisson Blu

4428-1428

Vintage Lounge The St. Regis Doha

4446-0105

4015-8888

Oyster Bay The St. Regis Doha

4446-0105

Wahm W Doha

4453-5353

Hive InterContinental Doha The City

4408-7777

The Lounge Kempinski Residences & Suites

4405-3325

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ARTS & CULTURE

Top Picks

MATHAF: ARAB MUSEUM OF MODERN ART Focus: Works From Mathaf Collection Oct 12, 2015-Feb 14, 2016: Ground-Floor Galleries. Offering a glimpse into some of its most iconic works, the museum’s Focus exhibition presents five solo shows highlighting a selection of key artists in its collection. Among them are some of the Arab world’s ground-breaking modern and contemporary artists – Saloua Raouda Choucair (Lebanon), Inji Efflatoun (Egypt), Farid Belkahia (Morocco), Faraj Daham (Qatar), and Abdulhalim Al-Radwi (Saudi Arabia). Entry is free. For more information call 4402-8855 or visit www.mathaf.org.qa.

ANIMA GALLERY & LOUNGE Resinification: A Solo Exhibition by Mauro Perucchetti

Oct 5, 2015-Sept 30, 2016: Parcel 17, Porto Arabia, The Pearl-Qatar. Mauro Perucchetti’s work unites pop aesthetics with social commentary, addressing some of the most pressing and difficult issues in today’s society in a way that’s subtle and accessible, without being trite, shocking, or obscure. 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.

QATAR MUSEUMS Luc Tuymans: Intolerance

Oct 19, 2015-Jan 30, 2016: Al Riwaq Gallery. Belgian artist Luc Tuymans is one of the key figures of a new generation of figurative painters, widely credited with having contributed to the revival of painting in the 1990’s and recognized as one of the most important living painters today. This exhibition is a comprehensive survey of his work – his first solo show in the Gulf region – and will include a series of wall paintings and a new body of work, 'The Arena', created specifically for the show. Entry is free. For more information visit www.qm.org.qa.

VCUQATAR Community Classes

QATAR TURKEY 2015 Archaeology & Heritage Conservation In Turkey Lectures

Ongoing: UCLQatar, Education City & Museum of Islamic Art. This is a lecture series organized in partnership with UCL Qatar University that introduces the work of key Turkish experts in the fields of Archaeology and Heritage Conservation. Topics covered will include Neolithic cultures of Eastern Anatolia, the challenges of preserving the World Heritage Sites of Bursa and Cumalikizik, and underwater archaeology in Turkey. For more information visit www.qatarturkey2015.qa.

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

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ARTS & CULTURE

A Shakespearean Storm By Emily Alp Photography by Jessie Palanca

The Doha Players are bringing to life William Shakespeare’s iconic comedy – The Tempest, at QNCC. Thought to be the last play the storied playwright ever wrote, it’s also one of his most allegorical. QH spends an afternoon at rehearsals alongside the cast and crew.

“W

e are such stuff as dreams are made on, and our little life is rounded with a sleep.” – William Shakespeare, The Tempest. In early November, Doha will see the performance of a play that invites people into Shakespeare’s last dreamscape, The Tempest. Named for its catalyst—a violent, shipwrecking storm—the play features Shakespeare’s genius insight into human nature through the lens of dramatic circumstances. Select members of The Doha Players are now rehearsing to bring the play’s characters to life and draw anyone who’s game deeper into meaningful scenarios that entertain. “The moment you start watching The Tempest, you know what’s happening …it’s quick, but in a good

way because you’re just immediately in there; you know what’s going on,” says Hussam Aitelqadi, who plays Caliban, a disgruntled slave.

very serious about it. So the comedy is built around these horrible things; it doesn’t come out of frivolity.”

The action begins with a supernatural storm planned by a man, Prospero—played by Mione van der Merwe—yes, a woman, playing a man, since many female characters were played by men in Shakespeare’s day (so why not turn the modern tables?). Prospero plans the storm to overturn a ship full of his family members traveling near the island where he and his daughter are stranded. Seems a bit extreme, but the man has his reasons—it was only a decade or so earlier that he was cast away with his infant, (now teenage), daughter Miranda, played by Katie McIlroy, and left for dead by a power-hungry character, Antonio, the brother of king Alonso of Naples, played by David Pearson.

April 2016 will mark 400 years since his death, yet Shakespeare, to this day, remains ubiquitous across the world as a mainstay in literature classes, and his work never enters the realm of triteness.

The survivors of the wreck find themselves strewn across the island, believing that only they have survived, until, that is, they start running into one another. Three weaving plots ensue. Each character emerges through a love story, a comedy and more than one death-defying struggle for power.

Sturgess explained further that Shakespearean plays are a chance for a wider audience to take in the genius of his work without the struggle of reading it for themselves. In fact, more people get the chance through these performances to discover how the characters reflect their own lives. One of the constant studies in Shakespeare is of the roles that we play in our families and society, how we are bound to them. The Tempest will introduce these in a way that promises to resonate with the lover, comedian, the ruler, the envious sibling, the underdog, the wise forgiver and a range of human sentiments within anyone.

“It’s a comedy, but it’s based on these really horrible acts. Prospero’s brother had a coup, threw his brother out and put his brother on a little boat with a little baby…and just wanted them to die,” said Pearson. “Later on in the play, my character tries to figure out how to kill his brother. And he’s

“There is a fundamental aspect that Shakespeare managed to capture and that’s what it’s to be human,” said Kim C. Sturgess, one of The Tempest’s directors. “It doesn't matter what colour you are, what religion you follow, you are human and that is what he captured, and that's why we are still watching the plays. So much in the so-called West, these modern things we've strapped on top to try to understand, but Shakespeare sticks with the basics – family, rivalry, power.”

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The Tempest's Shipmaster portrayed by Steve Rich

“Doha Players has very high standards,” said Mond. “And I think when you get involved you realize the high standards and the commitment that you have to make. It’s not an easy commitment.”

Actor Sebastian Delascasas as Young Ferdinand

“You've got the different hierarchy within the play, you’ve got the leadership and you’ve got the slaves, and then they find other people that they think are even below them,” said Gary Mond, who has been with The Doha Players since 1999 and will play the part of Trinculo, the king’s jester. “There are some fun parts designed to get the audience engaged; there are some more powerful points in there as well, and there’s some sinister overlay in it. It’s clever.” Shakespeare’s plays are always amended to keep them a reasonable length. The choices about what to cut and how to edit usually reflect the time and place where they’re performed, Sturgess explained. “We are going to highlight what's in the text,” he said. “It mentions North Africa and Tunis…a group of people who have just come back from Tunis, and they're on their way to Naples. We are making it relevant to the world we're in, and the play will say everything that Shakespeare expected his audience to understand. The play will communicate the text. The audience will get The Tempest – it's just some of the things that wouldn’t necessarily help our audience understand or engage, we will probably do without. The Doha Players is a non-profit, community theatre group that ran its first play in 1954—last year marking its 60th anniversary. Its members hail from more than 20 countries, attracted over the years to entertain the community-come-cosmopolitan city. In May of 2014, the organization became one of the first adult community theatre groups worldwide to be granted a license to perform the longest-running musical in history—Les Misérables.

The actors dedicate their weekends and one weekday a week, for seven weeks, and continue to practice their characters on their own free time until the production hits the stage. “It’s quite intense,” Mond continued. “And generally you find that you bond and it’s quite good fun. That’s why you do it. You do it because of the buzz and the friendships and the fun that you have.” “This is amateur theatrics,” Pearson said. “But it’s not amateur in that it’s not good.” The actors agree that they aim to surpass the standards of established, renowned live theatre companies that seasoned connoisseurs have come to expect. And yet their humility is palpable and apparent when they eagerly jump on the subject of what makes their pursuits possible; specifically, when they talk about the players you never see—set and costume designers, and technicians who secretly drive the performance nights to success. “I think the unsung heroes are the people who don’t go on the stage and get the buzz,” Mond said. “The ones who create wonderful sets—they put in time to paint them and make them good…I don’t know what [the costume designer] gets from it, but she makes fantastic costumes for us…so there’s a whole group of people who never appear on-stage, they may get a little mention in the brochure, but they do it because they love to see Doha Players put on shows.” While in the past, The Doha Players have had a rather nomadic presence throughout the city— performing wherever they could find the space— they’re excited now to have found a home at the Qatar National Convention Center, which offers world-class equipment and an excellent performance space for the players and audience alike. Over the years, audience members represent a full range of backgrounds and cultures; in fact, many are

Actress Mione van der Merwe takes on the role of Prospero

locals and students. In the case of Shakespeare, the experience enhances their learning of the playwright and his motivations. “He made no attempt at all to collect his plays. I think for him these were things in a moment… that life is just the things that dreams are made of,” Pearson said. “He struggles with that in all of his plays,” van der Merwe added, “the fact that life is short and then you die.” “So you come back to those basics of mortality,” Sturgess continued. “None of us, I don’t think, want to die. We all accept that we’re all going to die. And it’s a question of how we live our lives managing those two contradictory things. You don’t want to die but we know we are going to. And in Shakespeare, in all the plays, there is this struggle with dealing with our mortality.” Already taking on his role as the jester, Mond concluded: “It’s a good play. People who come to it will enjoy it. It’s got enough variety and air. It’s not too heavy—they’ll walk away saying they had a great evening.” n The Tempest will be showing at the Qatar National Convention Center from November 7-10 at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are QR 100 and are available from www.q-tickets.com. Discounts will be available for youth under the age of 18 with valid I.D. The Doha Players are always looking for new actors, musicians, directors, costumers, props managers, painters, set-builders, sound and lighting experts and much more. For more information about volunteering, trying out for a play, tickets or just keeping up with the live performance scene in Doha, visit www.thedohaplayers.com or follow them on Facebook

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ARTS & CULTURE

n From music and poetry, to spoke word performances, the city's young s artists speak out at Words & String

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Words & Strings co-founder Amin Ishaq

Sharing A Stage By Shahmim Akram Photography by Jessie Palanca

In a city of diversity, bringing together creative talent is no easy task; however, Words & Strings has successfully harnessed the power of friendship to do just that. QH talks frankly with two of its co-founders, Amin Ishaq and Ahmed El Fadel, about the organization and the challenges they faced to provide a shared stage for performers.

min Ishaq founded Words & Strings after he met fellow spoken-word performer Arwa Elsanosi at a poetry event. Enthused by the energy and vibrant arts scene in Sudan he wanted to provide a similar stage for spoken poetry here in Qatar. Requiring a professional team, Ishaq and Elsanosi were able to utilize the talents of their friends and fellow co-founders Ahmed El Fadel, Elmoiz Elsheikh and Ahmed Haydar – between them they possess a variety of skills including events coordination, videography, and business development. Most importantly, they all share a healthy respect for poetry, the spoken word and music.

In Qatar there are huge amounts of talent here that don’t have a place or an outlet to showcase their talent to the world, and I just wanted to do that. I want Words & Strings to be a stage for everyone…I want it to be a place where people can learn from each other and share experiences.

wouldn’t be able to perform because of the time-span. So we decided to have a more consistent event every three months and we take all the people we can. The event usually runs for around three hours with a mixture of spoken-word, poetry, and musical performances. QH: What have audience reactions been like?

QH: Why did you include musical performances? AI: I think I have always seen music and poetry as two types of art that intertwine a lot – like almost every song is part poetry and part music. I thought adding music to the mix will make it more interesting, and bring more people –diversity can make a wonderful thing. QH: Was organizing events easy? AI: It wasn’t easy at first. People were sceptical – you come with something new and you tell them ‘I just want to do this for free’. But when people saw what we can do – we’re just offering an open space for art for those who want it – then we started getting offers from organizations that want to help in such things. AEF: When we did the first event we were testing the water to see if there was going to be any reaction to it. We found that there was a hunger for this and people actually wanted to come and perform, and some people enjoyed listening to it… so we decided ‘Lets define what we want to do, and let’s make this consistent.’

QH: What are you trying to achieve with Words & Strings?

QH: What happens at an event?

AI: Our ultimate goal is to enrich the arts scene here in Qatar. When I [was] in Sudan they were doing it with minimal resources in backyards of houses, but the energy and the talent of people was so amazing.

AEF: With our very first event ‘100,000 Poets for Change’ we had about 60 people asking to perform on our stage and we had to do auditions. But we didn’t want to go through that again and tell people they

AEF: We had a high school student who came and performed at an event, and afterwards his parents thanked us and showed us his notebook which he had filled with pages of poems that he had written. And I realized the impact that this actually has on people’s lives –that they can finally showcase their art and display it to other people and get a reaction out of it. We want it to be a conversation – we don’t want it to be a presentation. AI: Every single time after the event finishes I get totally mind-blown by the reaction… I love seeing people enabled and showcasing their talent on our stage. So when I hear how much people appreciate that, it’s just so humbling every single time. It really can be an experience, to meet very different people with very different backgrounds that express themselves in the most beautiful of ways. Our third event in August was a full house with people from different ages and nationalities, and #WordsNStrings [hash-tag] was trending on Twitter that day. The audience wanted to socialize and talk to the poets and musicians. And our performers included some new faces – which tells us that our family is growing. n Are you a budding poet or musician with a story to tell? Follow Words & Strings on Facebook and Twitter to find out about upcoming events and how to participate, or email wordsandstrings@outlook.com.

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ARTS & CULTURE

Listings

Museum Guide

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

QH RECOMMENDS

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

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

Photo credit: Qatar Museums Sicily or southern Italy Oliphant (Hunting Horn), Norman, d ivory, bronze Mid-12th century, carved and incise / 2.3 cm (base), IV.11.1998 L: 53 cm; Diam: 9.8 cm (mouth)

The Fire Station & Garage Gallery

MUSEUM OF ISLAMIC ART The Hunt: Princely Pursuits in Islamic Lands

Ongoing: Special Exhibitions Gallery, 1st Floor. Rich with symbolism and pageantry, hunting was an essential activity in the lifestyle of princes, sultans and pashas throughout the Islamic world. As such, images of the hunt in almost every medium are commonly found in Islamic art, whether in lavishly illustrated Shahnameh manuscripts, inlaid metalwork or colourful minaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;i ceramics. Frequently commissioned and exhibited for royal display, such artworks form a significant component of collections held by prominent Qatari and Turkish museums. This exhibition draws on such artworks to explore and celebrate hunting and the related activities of polo, feasting and fighting. Free entry. For more information call 4422-4444 or visit www.mia.org.qa.

DOHA YOUTH & JUNIOR CHOIRS Choir Auditions

Sun & Wed: The Doha Youth Choir and the Doha Junior Choir are now holding auditions for singers ages seven to 10-years-old and 11 to 18-years-old. Choir teachers are experienced and dedicated to the cause of sharing their knowledge and passion for choral music. They rehearse Sunday and Wednesday afternoons in Al Waab. For more information email info@dohayouthchoir.com, or visit www.dohayouthchoir.com.

IAID Broadway Jazz For Ladies

Saturdays: Hilal St., Al-Tadamon Signal, D-Ring Road. Broadway dance is different from other styles due to its fusion of ballet, jazz and modern elements, which allow for unconventional movements and stage-inspired production choreography. The use of theatre props such as canes, top hats and gloves are also popular in Broadway productions. For more information call 4432-0974 or 4441-1234, visit www.iaidonline.org, or email enquire@iaidonline.org.

Visual Arts

Sat-Thurs: Hilal St., Al-Tadamon Signal, D-Ring Road. IAIDâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;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.

MUSEUM OF ISLAMIC ART Turkish Treasures Gallery Trail

Ongoing: Museum Of Islamic Art. Turkey has played a major role in the arts and cultures of the Islamic world. From the rule of the Central Asian Saljuq Dynasty in the 11th century, until the fall of the Ottoman Empire in the early 20th century, Turkey was the cradle as well as the crossroads of a rich variety of Islamic art made for sultans and viziers as well as ordinary patrons. This self-guided tour reveals the beautiful and significant works of Turkish art in the collections of the Museum of Islamic Art. A tour pamphlet is available free of charge in Arabic and English at the museum. For more information call 4422-4444 or visit www.mia.or.qa.

QATAR TURKEY 2015 Archaeology & Heritage Conservation In Turkey Lectures

online! See us arhappening.com www.qat

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

ALRIWAQ DOHA

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

QMA Gallery

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

Magnificent Century: The Exhibition

Ongoing: QM Gallery, Building 10, Katara. The Magnificent Century series has become a television legend, a historical soap opera on the life of the Ottoman Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent that has now been watched by 300 million viewers in 54 countries. In this Special Edition: Harem Al Sultan, a unique exhibition brings the costumes, sets and ambiance of the series to Doha, revealing the stories behind the life of the Turkish conqueror and his love for the humble and beautiful Harem Sultan. Exhibition visitors will be transported back to the glorious world of Suleiman the Magnificent and see the artistry and craftsmanship that went into creating the iconic props and decors of the series. Free entry. For more information visit www.qatarturkey2015.qa.

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COMMUNITY

Top Picks

QATAR TOASTMASTERS The Art Of Public Speaking

Oct 4 & 18: Looking to develop communication and leadership skills? Want to build your self-confidence? Look no further than Qatar Toastmasters Club. Master the art of public speaking in a supportive, multicultural group. The club meets on the first and third Sunday of the month, all year round. Meetings are at the Radisson Blu Hotel from 7:00 p.m. till 9:30 p.m. For more information call 5505-5275 or 5572-5293 or visit www.qatartoastmasters.net.

DOHA SCOTTISH DANCING CLUB Dance Classes

Oct 5, 12, 19 & 26: Doha English Speaking School. Those with an interest in participating in one of Scotland’s most traditional forms of dance can join the Doha Scottish Dancing Club for lessons. Classes are held from 7:00 p.m. till 9:00 p.m. on Mondays every month. The cost is QR 20 per class and there is no additional registration fee or membership requirement. Bring soft shoes and a bottle of water to stay hydrated. For more information email dohascottishdancing@gmail.com, or request to join the club’s Facebook page.

COUNTRY CONNECTIONS QATAR Relocation Services For Expats

Ongoing: If you’ve just 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 services that include assisting with accommodation and school searches, spousal support, city orientations, to providing information on 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 Depression Support Group

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 with Qatar’s diverse community his cultural traditions of Bulgaria through its dance. Members: QR 55 per class and QR 350 for eight classes. Non –members: QR 65 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.

Ongoing: For those of you who are feeling low and don’t know what’s wrong, but need someone to talk with, please join the Doha Mums every month at their Depression Support Group. This group will by no means be a cure but it will hopefully give you someone to talk to and let you know where to get professional help. Please get in touch if you could use the support of others who are in the same boat – together we can talk through this! For more information on location and timings email dsg@dohamums.com.

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COMMUNITY

The Qatar Toastmasters recently celebrated their 400th meeting milestone

The Gift of Gab By Sarah Al Motairi Selected images courtesy of Qatar Toastmasters Additional photography by Jessie Palanca

Chartered in 1997, the Qatar Toastmasters Club has been helping Qatar residents gain confidence as public speakers and leaders for the past 19 years. It’s the second oldest toastmasters club in the country and QH had the honour of interviewing member Nevine Kamel for a look into the club’s background.

evine Kamel is a witty young lady with beaming confidence. With an MBA in Employee Relations from the University of Leicester, Nevine understands the hurdles and joys of having to speak and lead a team confidently. She has 15 years experience as an HR consultant and recently focused on becoming a trainer, public speaker and coach. Hailing from Egypt, Nevine first joined a toastmasters club while living in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, five years ago. Nevine shares,

“I lived in Saudi Arabia for eight years and joined the toastmasters club during my last year of living in Jeddah. When I moved to Qatar four years ago the first thing I did was look for a toastmasters club. I came across a club that was only a few minutes from my house and it felt like the universe was working with me once again.”

Qatar Toastmasters boasts over 45 clubs through the country. “Clubs are under ‘districts’ and under districts are ‘divisions,’” Nevine tells us. Qatar has two divisions: Division E and Division Q (don’t worry, you’re not reading a script for a District 9 flick). Division Q has four areas. “For example, my club is area 18 under Division Q,” explains Nevine. She continues: “My job this year is vision leader Division Q, and I’m responsible for expanding on clubs and members for adults. Each club hosts a number of events and competitions. Our most prominent is the Qatar Open. I say ‘our’ because it feels like our baby. It’s one hundred per cent community driven [and] successful thanks to all the members and participants who make it possible through their time and dedication.” “Our global mission is to help people develop their communication, leadership and speaking skills. This is done in a universal fashion,” Nevine clarifies. Each club commits to monthly meetings

where prospective speeches are guided by training manuals developed by the club. Levels are achieved based on hours, content and commitment. Through demonstration, members are promoted from ‘Competent Communicator’. As a member’s experience grows, titles advance to ‘Competent Leader’ to ‘Advanced Speakers/Leaders’ and, eventually, earning the highest title of ‘Distinguished Toastmaster’. Nevine states: “Junior members are guided and advised by senior members through constructive feedback.”

The Qatar Open Youth Public Speaking Championship is a CSR initiative started by Qatar Toastmasters 18 years ago. “We find it crucial to give back to the youth in Qatar. We give 13 to 18 year-olds the opportunity to develop themselves as leaders and public speakers.” The Qatar Toastmasters Club has developed programs for prep and secondary schools throughout the country. Children are chosen based on skill and effort. From all participants, 35 students are chosen for the semi-final, which is then cut down to 10 students for the final completion where they compete for the title. “We have children from all ethnicities and backgrounds participating in our competitions,” Nevine proudly continues. “Last year Qatari students competed for the first time.” The goal is to arm students with an unwavering confidence so they may

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develop into our future leaders and speakers. “We hope to develop confident Arabic public speakers so they may go on to design Arabic-speaking toastmaster clubs and competitions.” “I can confidently say that this journey is for everyone, regardless of professional and individual paths. It’s less about standing in front of an audience and speaking, or writing an award-winning keynote speech, but more about being able to speak on your feet, confidently at any given time,” says Nevine. Whether you’re a manager, a teacher, an accountant, an engineer, this experience will teach you how to talk with your subordinates, or explain a task handed out by your manager without hesitation. It will give teachers a newfound confidence in working side-byside with children and adults alike. Clubs are open to the public unless specified as ‘corporate’ clubs. Qatar Toastmasters is more than happy to host corporate training. Being that the organization is a non-profit set-up, new members are asked to pay a fee of QR 550 per year. Registered members are then asked to pay a fee of QR 500 bi-annually which caters to logistics such as venues, materials and other hosted events. “We also reach out to sponsors during our Qatar Open event. Last year, Vodafone was our sponsor and supported us generously,” Nevine gratefully shares.

Qatar Toastmasters' Nevine Kamel

The Qatar Toastmasters Club is a judgment-free zone that encourages individuals to lead and publically speak through constructive, positive criticism. For those interested, Qatar Toastmasters Club encourages participants to join two to three meetings before committing. “It allows potential members to get a feel for the club and decide whether or not the club is a fit for them. Our club meets the first Sunday of every month,” smiles Nevine. “When you’re a good speaker, you must also be a good listener,” she says. “Through listening we learn to evaluate one another positively. We assist in developing one’s communication and leadership levels.” The club welcomes all professionals of all backgrounds, and all non-professionals in learning to speak and lead with confidence. Go on…give it a go! You just might be the next Distinguished Toastmaster! n Fun Fact: Mr. Koka Prasad of the Qatar Toastmasters Club made it to the Toastmasters International Competitions 2014. Fun Fact: Mr. Mohammed Al Qahtani rose above 30,000 international participants as the first Arab to win the 2015 Toastmasters International World championship of Public Speaking in English, held in Las Vegas, Nevada, U.S.A.

To learn more about the Qatar Toastmasters Club visit www.qatartoastmasters.net, or Google ‘Qatar Toastmasters’ for a number of clubs in the area. For more information on Toastmasters International visit www.toastmasters.org.

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COMMUNITY

It Takes A Village…

By Ashlee Starratt Selected photography courtesy of George Delfino Fotografia

You may have heard the familiar phrase ‘change begins at home’. We introduce you to one local community group that’s taking this message to heart. All For One is a Qatari-grown, non-profit organization of professionals striving to make a difference in the lives of Qatar’s citizens and expats – both at home and abroad. We speak to Co-Founder Fahad Al Obaidly to learn more. QH: Tell us about the genesis of All For One – how did a group of like-minded individuals set out to change the world from the grassroots up? FAO: The decision was made to establish All For One over a cup of coffee at The Pearl. The logic behind it was, ‘since we are each extremely active with various individual charity projects, why don’t we combine our efforts under one umbrella and maximize our impact?’ The best way to describe All for One is a nonprofit organization, made up of Qatari and expat professionals and humanitarians who have come together to support their community. It seeks to provide its members with the spaces, relationships and knowledge that they need in order to translate ideas into impact.

QH: What kinds of programs and services do you offer? FAO: [Our] Night For Nepal Charity Auction and Cultural Event [held on June 4], was quite unique for a number of reasons. For the first time ever, we brought together three of Qatar’s most respected non-profit organizations –namely Qatar Charity, Reach Out To Asia and Educate A Child, (part of Education Above All) – to collaborate efforts together in a holistic approach, providing needed assistance to the children of Nepal who were devastated by the recent two earthquakes. What was especially unique about this program was that it was holistic in that it aimed to provide help which was both strategic and sustainable. Qatar Charity’s role was to provide immediate relief to the children by way of much-needed emergency aid like food, medical care and shelter, while Reach Out To Asia’s role was related to infrastructure by assisting to rebuild schools and train teachers. Finally, Educate A Child had the important role of ensuring that children receive a quality primary education and that [they] remained in school. Other programs include: • Movember: An initiative to promote men’s health, overall wellness and early detection of prostate and testicular cancer. This initiative is patronized by the Supreme Council of Health and the Qatar Cancer Society. • World Humanitarian Day: Fahad Al Obaidly, Co-Founder of All for One was selected by the UN to be its World Humanitarian Day humanitarian messenger for Qatar.

• Water For Workers (W4W): W4W is about giving cold water and thank-you messages to the workers who’ve built Qatar. The mission is to engage the local community with the workers, sharing small conversations and getting to know them. QH: You recently hosted the charity event ‘A Night For Nepal’ at The Grand Hyatt last June to fundraise after the Kathmandu earthquakes. Tell us about the success of that night. FAO: The event was a success because so many people from all kinds of professional and cultural backgrounds came together in solidarity to show the people of Nepal that we [care]. QH: In your website’s mission statement it says that All For One aims to be a ‘catalyst for new ideas for a better world’. Can you elaborate on this? FAO: We decided that instead of duplicating what many of the other community service groups are already actively doing, we need to contribute something that’s unique, pertinent and effective. We brainstormed a number of ideas and, after looking around our close group of friends and acquaintances, we realized that each one of us had something unique to offer, and if we pooled our talents and efforts we could really make a difference while implementing creative and innovative approaches to community service. In the end, our ultimate goal is to do our collective part to make the world a better place, starting with Doha, Qatar.

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Al Obaidly All For One Co-Founder Fahad ng towards (left) and his colleagues are worki d community a better future for Qatar's share

during A Night Traditional dancers perform live Hyatt For Nepal charity event at The Grand

dance A celebration of culture and Arab aiser at the All For One-sponsored fundr

QH: Tell us about some of All For One’s past community outreach campaigns in case our readers are not aware – Water For Workers (W4W), Pay Their Bills etc. FAO: Water For Workers was one of our first initiatives and it was our way of [giving t hanks]. Pay Their Bills [started] as a coincidence; one of our member noted a lady was trying to pay her bill at a local market and she couldn’t pay because she didn’t have the money. After she left her things, that person went and paid her bill and she shared her story, and since then we, as All For One, go to small local markets in areas we know that low-income labourers live and we ask around to see who is not able to pay their bills for food and we take care of it once a month. QH: November is international Prostate Cancer Awareness Month and we hear that All For One has some big plans for Movember. Can you tell us more? FAO: We’re excited about Movember, as it will be an opportunity for us to team with the Supreme Council of Health and the Qatar Cancer Society to raise awareness about a very important issue related to men’s health. Movember Qatar is a movement to support to spread the awareness about men's cancer, [including]

testicular cancer, prostate cancer and male breast cancer. This year’s event will be hosted at The Ritz-Carlton on November 7 starting at 4:00 p.m. and is supported by the Movember Foundation, The Supreme Council of Health, the Qatar Cancer Society, Fadi El Mandelek Salon and Sugar & Spice restaurant.

ALL FOR ONE VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES Hands-On: Activities where almost anyone can show up and, with minimal training, get started. (Ex: taking tickets, cleaning up parks, planting trees).

QH: What’s been the most rewarding experience or feedback you’ve had so far as a result of All For One’s community initiatives?

Skilled: Tasks that depend on a volunteer's particular skill-set or experience. (Ex: using graphic design skills to help an organization re-design brochures, building or maintaining a nonprofit's website, providing legal advice for an immigration support agency).

FAO: The most rewarding experience involves the feedback and responses we get from the individuals that we provide assistance to.

Direct Service: Volunteering on the front lines of the organization and likely having direct contact with the population served. (Ex: delivering meals, packing food-bank boxes).

QH: How can people volunteer or become involved with All For One?

Advisory: Serving in a more behind-the-scenes role to help build an organization's capacity to reach their mission. (Ex: providing feedback on strategic or fundraising plans, helping organizations learn more about using social networking sites and tools, serving on a committee or board whose role is largely oversight and governance).

FAO: Everyone can volunteer and there are volunteering roles out there to suit all interests and skills. The opportunities for people to take part in are countless. Individuals are welcome to join the service-minded men and women who volunteer through All for One to support their local community by contacting us through our websites (www.fahadalobaidly.com and www.allforone-qatar.org), or follow us on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter to hear about our upcoming activities. n

Online: Completing projects that you can do from anywhere in the world as long as you have email or internet access. (Ex: translating materials, blogging, developing websites, advising on strategic plans).

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SPECIAL PROMOTION

BMI Media's Samir Zaveri

Qatar Celebrates Education By Jorge Granda

BMI Media organizes international academic fairs across the globe, and this October 27 and 28 Qatar will play host to its own inaugural event hosted at the Sheraton Doha. QH talks with organizer Samir Zaveri, who takes us inside the Qatar Global Education Fair. QH: Okay – what is the Qatar Global Education Fair? SZ: BMI organizes the leading international education fairs all around the world. We regularly organize events in South America, North America, Europe and Asia and this year we are very happy to be begin events in the Middle East. In fact, we’ll have events in Kuwait, Abu Dhabi and Dubai in addition to the event in Doha in October, and I have no doubt that it will be a fantastic world-class event and a great opportunity for students who are looking to study abroad.. QH: What opportunities for prospective students will be available? SZ: The fair is a unique opportunity – especially for students and their families. Normally, when you’re looking for a course either locally or internationally, you can search on the internet or look at a brochure. However, at the fair there will be universities, colleges, high schools, and language schools from around the world, as well as the best ones from Qatar. Visitors will be able to talk to representatives from the institutions, which will include directors, professors and academic advisors giving the students (and parents) a great opportunity to ask any questions they may have about the wide range of courses available.

QH: Why is the event only now just venturing into the Gulf region? SZ: Actually, we’ve been planning this for many years. We’ve seen a tremendous increase in recent years in the number of Qataris and (children of expatriate families) studying abroad and also at the universities in their city. This increase is due to a number of factors, but mainly the fantastic government scholarship program administered by the Supreme Education Council (SEC). The program has fueled interest in other types of courses and many people often take a language course before they begin the university course. Other people are choosing to send their children to international high schools or taking short language courses. So this is really the right time to have the event here and we have had tremendous help and support from organizations such as Qatar University and HKBU. The SEC will also be at the event to inform students and families about how to participate and obtain a scholarship at an overseas institution. QH: Let’s say I’m a new high-school graduate wanting to explore my overseas options to study abroad. What will I take away from the fair? SZ: The purpose of the fair is to allow students to talk directly to different institutions from around the world, get to know what courses they have available, how the registration process [works], and get advice on how to apply successfully. There will be seminars taking place throughout the fair about various topics including the country’s education system, how to choose the right course, or how international education can help their career. QH: Tell us a little bit about BMI Media and your events around the world. SZ: Well, BMI will have its 30th anniversary in 2017, so I’ve been involved in organizing education events

for a long time. During this time, we’ve organized over 600 fairs and more than 190,000 people attend our events annually –mainly consisting of students, parents and executives. Last year, we had over 1,100 different institutions from over 23 different countries, [while] almost every single national government agency such as Education USA, Campus France, DAAD and the British Council participates in BMI events. So, I think we’ve firmly established ourselves as the company which organizes the best education fairs in the world and the Qatar Global Education Fair will be a world-class event both for exhibitors and visitors. QH: What are your hopes for Qatar’s inaugural event? SZ: Well, we expect the same results as all our [fairs]. First ,that visitors are able to enjoy a worldclass event in their own country and find exactly what they’re looking for, and leave a step closer to where they’re going to study – or at least a lot closer to their final destination. Likewise, we hope the institutions should have successful results, which means that they’ve met lots of serious visitors interested in the courses and that many of them will enroll in the near future. QH: Will the fair be a yearly event? SZ: Yes, it will be taking place in October this year and then twice a year – every April and October. QH: Any last words for our readers? SZ: I would like to invite all the people of Qatar to take the opportunity to visit the [fair]. I’m sure they will find it interesting and, more importantly, it will help them find the right course. All information about the event, exhibitors and seminar schedule can be found on the website at www.globaleducationfairs.net/qatar.. n QATAR GLOBAL EDUCATION FAIR Dates: October 27 & 28 Location: Sheraton Doha Timings: From 3:00 p.m. till 8:00 p.m. Contact Info: To register and for more information visit www.globaleducationfairs.net/qatar. To learn more about the work of BMI visit www.bmimedia.net.

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SPECIAL PROMOTION

Navigating The Classroom

Doha College Principal, Dr. Steffen Sommer

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

Surviving the first weeks of school is both an anxious, yet rewarding experience for new and returning students. Doha College’s Principal, Dr. Steffen Sommer welcomes the new class of the 2015 fall semester with a few words of encouragement.

he first day of the new school year is a milestone in a child’s life – whether it’s the first time through the doors or the final year of secondary education. As the new Principal of Doha College, I am privileged to be welcoming our student body through the gates for the first time. With the initial weeks of the school-term under our belts the majority of Qatar’s students are settling into a routine. However, some children find the transition particularly challenging. As a professional educator, I find there are some simple ways to ease the transition into the school environment. Our youngest students—those starting in pre-school and reception—have taken the first steps on their formal education journey and are most likely to be affected by this tremendous change. Classrooms are busy and exciting, which can prove tiring for young children. Afternoon snacks and time with parents after school can help your child relax and re-charge. Self-belief is a powerful tool for students to possess, and it’s never more important than when we are facing a new challenge. Whether your child has entered pre-school, started in a new school here in Doha, or transitioned from primary to secondary, it’s essential to show them that you believe they can manage in their new environment. As a parent, I understand the anxieties and stress we feel about

gear Doha College's youngest minds up for a new school year ahead

our children. I always encourage parents to meet with their school’s senior leadership or counseling staff to discuss any concerns they may have to help them through this difficult, albeit normal, part of the school process. The leap from the structure of primary school to secondary school is considerable. Students are introduced to self-management of their timetables, changing classrooms and an increase in homework. This additional responsibility and change can cause enormous confusion. To help your child navigate through this transitional phase look at implementing systems that will remind them of their new schedules and homework requirements. Many students in Qatar belong to expatriate families – which means they may have started a new school

at least once. It’s normal for children to take time to adjust to a new school layout and making new friends. To alleviate some of the stress, encourage your child to join extra-curricular clubs they enjoy, such as music or sports – these are a great way to make new friends and reduce anxiety. The educational environment in Qatar is undergoing enormous change. New schools are coming online to meet an increasing population. This academic year we had almost 400 new students begin with us in both primary and secondary and we look forward to opening more spaces with our new campus, due for completion in 2018. Like many Qatar schools, Doha College has a full calendar of activities planned for the next 12 months. I wish all students and teachers across Doha an enjoyable year of exciting and inspiring learning. n

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COMMUNITY

Building Strong Bonds

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hen it comes to parenting styles, the jury’s out. Information abounds saying to let babies cry it out, while other sources are pointing to the fact that too many Moms and Dads today are considered ‘helicopter parents’. It’s enough to make many parents confused and even squabbling amongst each other about what’s right. Yet, there’s one parenting style that’s been around forever despite its name now reaching the ears of many for the first time – attachment parenting.

Beginning Of Time October is officially known as Attachment Parenting Month. While attachment parenting – or ‘natural’ parenting as many prefer to call it – may seem like a new concept, it’s been around since, well, forever! It’s just that it didn’t always have a name. Long before it got its catchy title, parents were already engaging in attachment parenting practices. In the west, there has been a movement away from attachment parenting, with many infants and children spending less time with their parents, resulting in weaker bonds between them. Some other countries, by comparison, never stopped engaging in it. If you’re looking for a parenting style that will help you grow a stronger bond with your child, attachment parenting is an ideal option. In fact, that’s its’ main point – to help foster a lifelong connection, while at the same time you’ll be teaching your child essentials that they need to become self-sufficient adults – such as independence.

The Benefits The benefits of attachment parenting are plentiful, which include improved behaviour, improved development, higher intelligence, and more peaceful children. Attachment parenting involves creating a strong attachment between the parents and the child. While it may seem like it’s often the mother’s who are involved, dad’s are and should be involved as well.

By Jacqueline Bodnar

Most parents want to have a meaningful connection with their child, yet many are not quite sure how to go about creating one. The information on the issue can be daunting to say the least, but we’re here to spread the knowledge about a method of child-rearing that’s stood the test of time – attachment parenting.

This parenting style aims to have both the parents and the child in harmony. Parents understand their infant or child and can respond – whether it’s a cry, expression, or other cue. Many Moms and Dads struggle for a way to connect to and reach their children, especially as they approach teenage years. Attachment parenting from the beginning helps to avoid this problem as well.

The Seven B’s Dr. William Sears, a popular doctor and parenting author who coined the phrase ‘attachment parenting’, finds it’s a style that brings out the best in both children and parents. He has what’s referred to as the ‘7 Baby B’s’ of attachment parenting for how mothers and fathers can engage in the parenting style, which include: 1. Birth bonding: This is the importance of bonding at and during the days following giving birth. It’s important to get a bond started during that time, provided there isn’t a medical issue preventing it.

2. Breastfeeding: Breastfeeding not only gives babies a healthy start in the world, but it also helps build a bond and helps Mom learn her baby’s cues and behaviour patterns. 3. Baby-wearing: Keeping babies close as you carry them around has been done since the beginning of time. This concept goes back to putting baby close to the parent, which helps reduce fussiness and improves alertness. 4. Bedding close to baby: With this concept it’s believed that wherever family members get the best sleep is the right option for them. However, it’s ideal if they can sleep near each other if possible, as it helps to calm children and gives parents who work more of a chance to focus on building a bond. 5. Belief in the language value of your baby’s cry Rather than leaving a baby to ‘cry it out’, attachment parenting focuses on responding your baby. When parents respond to a baby’s cries the baby learns trust. 6. Beware of baby trainers This is about thinking critically about all the parenting advice you will receive, which includes many people suggesting that you let your baby ‘ cry it out’. Such advice, according to Dr. Sears, will not be beneficial in building a strong bond with your baby. 7. Balance This one focuses on having a good balance so that you don’t get so consumed about caring for your baby that you forget to take care of you and your significant other. There are a lot of things that attachment parenting is not, including indulging, spoiling, and being permissive. Creating a strong bond with a child doesn’t mean that you’ll be giving into everything they want, but it means you will be responsive, evaluative, and will make choices that you feel are best for you and your child.

Looking Ahead If your son or daughter goes to childcare during the day while you work, you may feel that it’s harder to engage in attachment parenting. Rather than focusing on that, keep focused on the many ways you can engage in attachment parenting at home. Ideally you would want to select a caregiver who will also engage in this same style of parenting with your child. Also, it’s important to minimize the caregiver turnover and the number of hours they’re with a caregiver as much as possible. Whether you’re pregnant, have an infant, or your children are older, it’s never too late to get started with attachment parenting. While it’s ideal to start it right from birth, there are things you can engage in at every age in order to begin creating a stronger bond with your child. n

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COMMUNITY

Listings

Community Guide Australian and New Zealand Business in Qatar Group

QH RECOMMENDS

6651-1892 www.anzbiq.org

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

Doha Players

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

Egyptian Women’s Association

DOHA TWEETUPS Monthly Networking

5572-4171

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.

DOHA GARDEN CLUB The Green Box

Ongoing: Gardening gurus and green-thumbs rejoice! The Doha Garden Club is now offering members a 10% discount on Green Box home deliveries valid until September 30, 2014. Filled with locally-sourced fruits, vegetables and poultry, the Green Box comes to your home twice a week so that you and your family can enjoy the health benefits of fresh produce. The Garden Club is also planning their next field trip for members on April 20. For more information visit www.dohagardenclub.com to become a member or visit www.thegreenbox.me.

DOHA MUMS New Arrivals Coffee

Tuesdays: Landmark Mall. Whether you’re new to Doha, new to Doha Mums or just want to welcome someone who is, please join them for a casual coffee every Tuesday at Starbucks in Landmark Mall from 9:30 a.m. till 11:30 a.m. During Ramadan they will be meeting at the Wyndham Hotel every Tuesday at the same time on July 7 and 14. Regular meetings at Landmark will resume from July 21. Children are welcome and there’s no need to RSVP. For more information visit www.dohamums.com or email rsvp@dohamums.com.

IAID Zumba

Sun-Thurs: Hilal St., Al-Tadamon Signal, D-Ring Road. Zumba is the latest dance fitness craze spreading fast worldwide. This upbeat workout is fantastic for kids and adults alike. Zumba is an exhilarating class filled with good feelings and party-like fun – perfect for your fitness goals. For more information call 4432-0974/4441-1234, 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 the fun with a great variety of adrenaline-boosting beach activities. There’s water-skiing, wake-boarding, parasailing and more – including a kids play area and evening gondola rides from 5:00 p.m. till 10:00 p.m. for groups of four starting at QR 300 for 30 minutes and QR 500 for one hour. For membership registration call 4408-1985 or visit www.katara.net.

QATAR ANIMAL WELFARE SOCIETY Become A Volunteer Ongoing: Whether you’re a pet-owner or simply a lover of animals – especially those in need –the Qatar Animal Welfare Society (QAWS) is always looking for volunteers to help out. With up to 100 animals in their care, every hour of donated volunteer time counts. Whether it’s dog-walking, animal socialization, kennel cleaning or administrative work, QAWS could use the extra hand. For more information on becoming a volunteer call 5539-6074 or visit www.qaws.org.

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

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FOOD & DINING

Top Picks

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA Agusta Promotion

All-Month: Belgian CafĂŠ. Choose any of their highlighted a la carte menu items and enjoy the opportunity of winning an Agusta motor-bike. The promotion will run until December 2015 and the raffle draw will take place on December 25. For more information call 4484-4919.

THE ST. REGIS DOHA Vine Brunch

Fridays: Vine. 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 320 including soft drinks, and QR 420 including enhanced beverages. For more information call 4446-0105 or email diningreservations@stregis.com.

KEMPINSKI RESIDENCES & SUITES Chef's Table Surprise Menu

Daily: Aroma. Join a theatrical performance from the culinary team as they create art right in front of you on your dining table. This surprise menu is for up to six people and is available with prior reservation in Aroma. QR 950 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.

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA THE CITY Fright Feast

October 31: The Square. Join in from 6:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. on October 31 for a special Halloween-themed evening of food, drinks and fun for kids. QR 180 for buffet only, QR 200 with soft drinks, and QR 330 with special beverage package. For more information call 4015-8888.

RADISSON BLU Dine & Paint Event

October 27: Picassos. Have a go creating your very own painting while indulging on tasty tapas with selected beverages. Carry away your own painting with you. QR 225 per person. For more information call 4428-1555.

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FOOD & DINING By Ashlee Starratt Photography by Jessie Palanca

From steers to stars (celebrity and culinary!), the Toro Toro brand that shaped luminary Chef Richard Sandoval into a household name in the echelons of the foodie elite, now makes its second home in the Middle East at Marsa Malaz Kempinski. QH books a table for dinner and saddles up for a five-star journey through the delectable heartlands of Latin and South America.

Show Us

The Beef

remember where I was when the hushed murmurings began about a ‘new’ restaurant on The Pearl. It would be hosted on the island of Marsa Malaz and, yes, there was already one other wildly-popular branch in Dubai. It was at a media event – where all the juiciest gossip starts – and speculation was rife over the who’s and what’s. Ducasse had his gourmet penthouse at MIA; Ramsay, his empire secured at The St. Regis, while Nobuyuki Matsuhisa chose to anchor his legacy offshore at The Four Seasons. Now…it was Kempinski’s turn to direct the culinary spotlight inward. When news broke in our press circles that the island’s big, brass bulls of Wall Street were being commissioned for Richard Sandoval, the hammer dropped. There was only one concept those iconic harbingers could signify – Toro Toro; the globallyrenowned culinary destination that catapulted the tenacious chef from Mexico City into the radar of the culinary world’s top global gourmands. With a repertoire of creative fare best described as ‘panLatin’, Sandoval has crafted a realm of gastronomy built upon the Latin and South American tradition of sharing. The plates are small, the ingredients crisp and eclectic, the preparation forward-thinking, yet endorsed by tradition. Eighteen years after opening his flagship Mexican restaurant – New York City’s Maya – in 1997, Sandoval’s prolific restaurant group boasts 40 concepts around the globe; most notably the Toro Toro brand, La Biblioteca, Zenga and Richard Sandoval’s Toro Gastrobar. Before the arrival of the bronze bulls to Marsa Malaz, Sandoval was no stranger to Qatar’s culinary landscape, having opened a branch of his Mexican seafood restaurant, the former Pampano, with friend and business partner Maestro Placido Domingo in 2011 at The Pearl’s Porto Arabia. Most recently, Sandoval was in town to host a media night for the soft opening of Toro Toro Doha. Throughout the evening I sharply recall him going from table-to-table in his cook’s whites, checking on each diner to make sure all was up to snuff. So humble and unassuming was he that more than a few of my tablemates failed to notice whose presence they were in. Tonight we’re back at the restaurant after a prolonged hiatus, wanting to return a few months

Enjoy a pre-dinner libation at Toro Toro's sleek upstairs lounge

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The golden glamour of the restaurant's main dining area

after the doors first opened to see how the quality of service and calibre of cuisine have held up since that first sumptuous night. It’s still early – only 7:00 p.m. on a Wednesday— when we arrive so we head upstairs (in an elevator padded in rich cow-hides no less!) to pass the time in Toro Toro’s sleek lounge. A DJ sets the mood and his slinky sounds wind their way through its intimate alcoves and private salons. The décor is sleek – all black and gold – the colours of a prairie sunset. Past displays of horns and humidors, a chain-link curtain runs the length of the lounge's cloistered hallway, a stampede of buffalo, laser-etched in bronze, stands out in stark relief. They remind me of the Neolithic cave paintings of Altamira or Lascaux's Great Hall of the Bulls. There's something tribal about this place and its allure runs deep.

Delicate slices of salmon tiradito

If there's on starter worth trying at Toro Toro, it's the steak tartare

Our table is ready and we head back downstairs to the main dining room, the mounted, spiraled horns of African antelope keeping their sentinel watch as we wind our way towards a window seat overlooking the waters of the island's inlet. Our server for the evening is Markos, I mistake him as South American with his dark features and lilting accent, but he's actually from Serbia. He explains to us the concept of the Toro Toro menu, which features both small plates, ideal for sharing, and a Brazilian rodizio option served churrascaria-style. That's to say a never-ending stream of sizzling slices of Wagyu picanha, Australian lamb chops, achiote-marinated chicken and equally sumptuous side dishes. But tonight we opt to forgo the rodizio grill, as our eyes scroll the menu’s vast selection of sharing small plates. We order practically one of everything – there’s Toro Toro’s signature smoked guacamole, tuna tataki, salmon tiradito, ceviche huachinango, seared scallops (or conchas), crispy prawns, U.S. Prime beef steak tartare, choclo empanadas stuffed with mushroom ragout, and a lomo saltado version oozing with beef tenderloin, short rib coca flatbread, Venezuelan cachapas (which were so good we ordered another!), and palomilla de res. Though the plates and portions were quite small for four hungry people, there was enough variety that no one went without. Sandoval’s ethos is all about the family table – the idea that sharing is caring – and it’s a concept that fits in well within an Arab market

Toro Toro's signature cachapas, a Venezuelan classic

that practices the same. Each dish is conceptual, yet home-y; it’s Latin and South American comfort food at its best with contrasts of textures and sauces that tell a story. There’s the buttery crispness of the empanada pastry juxtaposed against a melt-in-yourmouth burst of succulent beef and mushroom. The tuna tataki was one of the star standouts – velvety portions of fish swimming in a spicy-sweet rocoto sauce topped with a cheeky textural element of crispy sweet potato.

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FOOD & DINING We also had to order two portions of the steak tartare as our dining party couldn’t get enough of it. Cultivating our sense of culinary adventure, Toro Toro has had the privilege of broadening our palates – as previously the concept of eating raw meat was one I simply refused to entertain. The risks seemed to outweigh the momentary pleasure of the flavour. Drenched and tossed in a chipotle chili sauce and balsamic reduction and incorporated with capers and sundried tomatoes, every bite was an unctuous mouthful. Also, not available that evening, but still a regular menu item is the grilled octopus. Having previously eschewed the tentacled cephalopod due to its tough, rubbery texture – Toro Toro’s grilled version is a world apart. It would be pedestrian to say ‘it tasted like chicken’ but to this writer’s perhaps unsophisticated palate, that’s exactly what it evoked. Char-grilled with Peruvian adobo spice and served with fingerling potato salad, it was a beautiful balance of piquant sweetness with a hint of flavoursome char. And the texture? Delicate yet hearty – no experience at Toro Toro is complete without it.

The iconic bulls of New York's Wall s Street, have become synonymou with the Toro Toro brand

A succulent portion of palomillo de res

Another standout dish was Toro Toro’s take on traditional Venezuelan cachapas – corn pancakes customarily stuffed with salty South American cheese, but here they’ve opted for a regional approach and gone with a halloumi filling. Served with a dollop of sweet tomato jam, it’s a salty-sweet mixture that reminds me of Arabic kunafa. Ooey, gooey and utterly divine, we could not get enough. As we linger over our beverages – prepared table-side with Toro Toro’s exclusive trolley service – it strikes me how Chef Sandoval’s unique culinary concepts are both an ode to his heritage and a nod to the contemporary methods of preparation that have given rise to the global resurgence of ‘new-Latin’ cuisine. It’s evident that his accolades are well-earned – Sandoval is the recipient of Mexico’s 2003 National Toque d’Oro Award, Bon Appetit’s Restaurateur Of The Year Award in 2006 and the Cordon d’Or Restaurateur Of Year Award in 2012. Now, he’s handed the reins of Toro Toro Doha over to Executive Chef Bojan Petrovic who will continue to carry out his vision. Our desserts arrive, chilled brimming bowls of suspiro Limeño a decadent cold, creamy mixture of dulce de leche, topped with toasted meringue. It’s so indulgent and sticky-sweet that only half of us could clean our spoons.

TORO TORO DOHA

If Nobu can stake its claim as the priciest restaurant in Qatar, then Toro Toro is a close second – the plates may be small but the prices make up for that. However, that being said, it’s one of those places you save up and go to celebrate life’s milestones – or to treat yourself, just because. The service is exemplary and the food some of the most succulent we’ve consumed. We end the night with lots of laughter and a few more rounds, leaving only when we’re sure we can grab those bulls by the horns. n

Smoking: Yes

Location: Marsa Malaz Kempinski Timings: • 7:00 p.m. till 1:00 a.m., Mon-Wed & Sat, main dining area & upstairs lounge • 7:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m., Thurs & Fri, main dining area & upstairs lounge Average Meal Price: • QR 440, rodizio-style per person • QR 75, tuna tataki • QR 90, U.S. Prime beef steak tartare • QR 85, ceviche huachinango • QR 90, crispy prawns • QR 70 each, choclo & lomo saltado empanadas • QR 60, cachapas • QR 50, suspiro Limeño Licensed: Yes Contact Info: Call 4035-5101 and visit www.torotorodoha.com, or www.richardsandoval.com.

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FOOD & DINING

L'Elégance Française

By Jorge Granda Photography by Jessie Palanca

Maxim restaurant at the Radisson Blu is eponymous of old-world elegance, beauty and simplicity. Visually stimulating, with an inspiring menu, its concept evokes the Parisian lavishness at the turn of the 20th century. QH goes back in time to experience a meal worthy of the upper crust.

n the heart of Paris, Maxim’s stands proudly as a symbol of Art Nouveau. One of the most emblematic restaurants in the City of Lights, in the 1930’s the royal, wealthy and famous would come to dine, socialize and share the news of the day. It may no longer be the only place for Europe’s über-rich to mingle in France, but Maxim’s remains a remnant of the city’s golden age and a point of culinary reference for Parisians. In Doha, we may not have the French original, but we do have our very own Maxim in the heart of the Radisson Blu that follows a similar concept of elegance and opulence. Having lived in Qatar for almost 13 years and visited the hotel countless of times, Maxim inexplicably slipped past my radar. After my first visit I feel as though I’ve wasted

13 years of great food, beautiful music, and an ambiance you won’t find anywhere else – this place is old-school in the best possible way.

The restaurant is tucked away on the 1st floor of the hotel’s west wing, though the entrance – located on the lobby level near Hyde Park – is deceptive. A private elevator whisks you up to the seclusion of the restaurant above – it’s a classy touch of refinement, evoking the feeling that you’re entering some sort of exclusive club (and in a way you are). The restaurant itself is an impressive combination of strong red tones and dark wood accents with classic paintings adorning the walls. The elegance of the interior is unparalleled; it’s classic, slinky glamour – the palette reminiscent of opening up a silken-red box of Valentine’s chocolates. The combination of rosso corsa, or ‘racing red’ couches and dark wooden walls adds a sense of enigmatic sultriness to the room. A small, elevated alcove at the back of the restaurant is home to a jet-black, baby grand piano where pianist Elitsa Slavova delights your ears while you indulge in some of Maxim’s distinguished dishes. It’s a sensual ambiance from another era – and we’re more than content to revel in it.

Baked baby chicken breast

Gianduia chocolate parfait

We have not one, but two, wait-staff attending to us this evening – even though it’s early on a Thursday night – and they both take good care of us. Our waiter, Arthur, gets us started with some drinks

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Marinated Norwegian salmon

Creamy pan-seared foie gras

A work of art: bittersweet chocolate mousse with marinated grapes

Succulent pan-fried duck breast

and a few recommendations off the menu. He tells us that Chef Sathya Seelan will be preparing some special appetizers for us to sample. We polish off perfectly-paired portions of creamy crab imperial, baked with sweet corn and tarragon crème fraîche and a succulent US beef tenderloin roll with a pesto-seed filling and mushroom ragoût. Palates piqued, we order a few more starters to whet our appetites – a Caesar salad made tableside, pan-seared foie gras, marinated Norwegian salmon and a goat cheese with caramelized leek and beet-root jam all satisfy and delight our taste-buds. The goat cheese in particular fascinated me with its softness and combination of flavours, while the freshness of the Caesar salad won me over. Every single one of these starters is full of flavour and utterly delectable to polish off. For main courses, the beef filet steak Diane is juicy and as a good as a piece of filet should be – melting in your mouth. The beef is flamed at your table, and served with a fresh cream, French mustard, onion, and paprika-based sauce. The

baked baby chicken breast is another must. A delicate creation, it’s slightly breaded on the outside and served with a parcel of carrots and steamed asparagus, on top of a Barolo reduction. The flavour elements are dramatic and make this beautifullypresented dish a winner. If you save room (and really, you must!) for dessert, I’d highly recommend dipping your spoon in either the bittersweet chocolate mousse served with marinated grapes and baked chocolate truffles, or the Gianduia chocolate parfait with a pistachio-almond tart and a sinful drizzle of crème Anglaise. Maxim is truly a classic restaurant – the kind you just don’t find anymore – so when you discover a gem like it you take extra care to savour its nostalgia. (Even the menu has an ‘OldTime Desserts’ and ‘Old-Time Favourites’ section!) A unique power player on Doha’s culinary scene, the prices at Maxim are not competitive – but worth splashing out for when you take into consideration the restaurant’s inspired history and calibre of the cuisine. It’s French luxury done more than well. n

MAXIM RESTAURANT Location: 1st floor, west wing, Radisson Blu Timings: 6:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m., daily Average Meal Price: • QR 45-QR 110 for appetizers • QR 200, beef fillet steak Diane • QR 100, baked baby chicken fillet • QR 50, bittersweet chocolate mousse • QR 40, Gianduia chocolate parfait Licensed: Yes Smoking: Yes Contact info: Call 4428-1555 or visit www.radissonblu.com/hotel-doha

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FOOD & DINING By Jorge Granda Photography by Jessie Palanca

Ryan Sonson is set to bring 23 years of culinary experience to his new role as Executive Chef of the Shangri-La Hotel Doha – his first post with the Asian luxury brand. QH was privileged to have Chef Ryan welcome us to his West Bay home for an exclusive interview and culinary photoshoot highlighting his most mouthwatering creative dishes.

he three-bedroom West Bay apartment that Chef Ryan Sonson shares with his wife Esther can only be described as nothing less than luxurious. Beautifully furnished with photos and memorabilia on the walls from his culinary travels around the world, we’re shown into his immaculate, yet home-y kitchen where we’re about to get a private glimpse of the calibre of cuisine he’ll be serving at the soon-to-open Shangri-La Hotel Doha. Already, our scrumptious surroundings evoke Sonson’s passion for food, perfection and good taste. Greeting us with an honest smile, Chef Ryan welcomes us not only to his home but –most importantly – to his kitchen where all the magic happens. But first, a quick tour of his humble abode. He shows us his wife’s yoga room and his ‘man cave’ as he calls it, where he unwinds and relaxes – the room is filled with hundreds of cookbooks from all over the world. As he walks us through the space we can see the same elegance in its decoration as we see in his food. After the tour, it’s back to the kitchen and down to business as Chef Ryan gets busy preparing a beautifully-presented savoury North African spiced king prawn with saffron citrus purée, and a luscious Thai beef salad while we ask him a few questions. QH: Chef Ryan, how old were you when you discovered that you loved being in the kitchen?

Epicurean

Artistry

RS: My grandfather was my inspiration – he was a hotelier. When I was a kid I found a cookbook in his house and I felt I wanted to cook something inside that book. I selected the prettiest recipe – a coffeeflavoured tapioca parfait. It looked great, but it didn’t taste so good after I made it. That didn’t stop me, and soon after I wrote a cookbook for kids when I was in [the] first grade. There were simple recipes of sandwiches and celery sticks with peanut butter inside the book. QH: You’re American; when did you leave the U.S. to pursue a culinary career abroad? RS: I always had a very strong drive and I was very passionate about food. The thing I love the most in the world is cooking and food. I wanted to absorb all different cultures and flavours…learn how people in other countries prepare their meals… learn about different ingredients and spices.

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Forget about a chef's table! QH is invited directly to Chef Ryan's home for an exclusive preview

Art on a plate – Chef Ryan's s North African spiced king prawn

QH: What’s going to make the Shangri-La Hotel Doha’s culinary concepts stand out from the herd? RS: Every restaurant here is a concept designed particularly for Qatar – none of the restaurants are in any of the other Shangri-Las. There’s a difference with this property; we’re the only one in the world that have a Shanghai Club. All the others have either Shang Palace or a Summer Palace, but we’re the only ones with a Shanghai Club. Also, we’re the only restaurant in Qatar that will have a live fish tank in our seafood [outlet]. So guests won’t only be able to select a live lobster, but [also] any other kind of live fish. We’re also producing our own honey and growing our own fresh herbs on the seventh floor of the hotel. QH: Who is Chef Ryan outside the kitchen? RS: Unlike other chefs I do like to cook at home – especially with my wife, who also cooks. So we’re a very distinctive couple as we both like to cook and we cook well, so we always eat very good. I also like mountain-biking, I do it in Mesaieed and up the east coast [of Qatar] where there are trees and beautiful scenery.

A delicate preparation of Thai beef salad

I knew I couldn’t learn all of that in the U.S., so I left to explore the world. My dream was to push the boundaries and create new dishes and new food based on my knowledge – pick what’s around me and develop it into a dish – do what not many chefs do, push boundaries. QH: The Shangri-La Hotel Doha will be opening very soon. How do you plan to leave your mark? RS: We have many different restaurants; each is unique in style and offers different types of cuisines. All the dishes are original and tailored to Qatar. I don’t micro-manage, so I let my chefs feel comfortable with what they’re preparing – I set the base and they do the rest. I want them to make their dishes their own.

QH: So what you’re saying is that you have the freedom you need? RS: Absolute freedom. This is the first time I’m opening a hotel with this brand and I was very pleased to see I have no reins. There was this kind of ‘vanilla’ concept to the restaurants, but it was up to me and the Food & Beverage Director to fill in the blanks based on what we knew would work here. Freedom allows me to be at my best and to be inspired. We’re not just putting tires on a car – we’re creating memories for people, so we’re not supposed to be taught technicalities and follow a strict guideline. We need to be inspired. Restrictions don’t let you do that and they [Shangri-La] understand that.

QH: Where would you like to retire? RS: My wife and I have traveled a lot and there are so many countries we love. We love Burma, but the weather is difficult. We also love the Middle East, but I think probably it would be San Miguel De Allende next to Guanajuato in Mexico. n CHEF RYAN SONSON Originally from the United States with Italian roots, Chef Sonson attended Johnson & Wales University in Rhode Island, a top hospitality college. He began his career in free-standing restaurants and country clubs before moving on to senior positions at five-star hotels in San Francisco, Newport Beach, Cairo and Singapore.

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FOOD & DINING

Filet of branzino crisped to perfection on a bed of spinach

La Spiga's fusilli pasta with shrimp and zucchini is a bowlful of goodness

QH: Favourite thing about the restaurant? SG: Friendly service and high-quality ingredients. [Our] favourite dish was the pasta (Fussili con Gamberi e Zucchine) – a recommendation from the chef that we were very glad we took!

Contest winner Stefanie Groth and Chef her companion with La Spiga's de Partie Sameer Kapoor

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 Stefanie Groth heads to the Italian Riviera at La Spiga by Paper Moon in the W Doha. Here is her review.

QH: Describe the ambiance.

SG: As always in the W, the ambiance is cool and chic with a relaxed vibe – a bit dark, quite minimalistic decorations, and the usual W crowd add to the atmosphere. QH: Describe the quality of the food. SG: Very high quality of ingredients cooked perfectly and nicely arranged [with] a great taste, yummy combinations and very generous portion sizes. [There’s] a good variety on the menu, everyone should find their favourite dishes here and will for sure enjoy them.

QH: Least favourite thing about the restaurant? SG: We didn’t have the perfect seat – [the] music was a bit too loud as we were sitting directly under the loudspeaker. We did sit at the very end of the restaurant where the [staff] was preparing for serving –which was a bit disturbing. QH: Was there a special touch or flair to the experience? SG: We were very lucky to have special attention from the chef, Sameer, who made us feel very welcomed and special and took some extra time to explain to us about some of the ingredients and make special recommendations. Much appreciated – and we got a surprise dessert! QH: Could the overall experience be improved? If so, how?

QH: What did you order? QH: Describe the quality of the service. SG:• Tartare di Salmone Marinato con avocado e Cetriolo, QR 85 • Bresaola con formaggio, fresco, tartufo e noci, QR 85 • Fusilli con Gamberi e Zucchine, QR 80 • Branzino con spinaci e pesto di maggiorana, QR 140 • Millefoglie alle Fragole e Crema Chantilly, QR 45 • Aqua Panna water 750 ml, QR 35 • Coca Cola 330 ml, QR 25 QH: Were the prices reasonable? SG: [The] prices are on the high end, but given the high quality of the food and the portion sizes – which were quite generous – I would say yes, prices are reasonable.

SG: Very attentive, quick, friendly, but still discreet. [It] made us feel welcome. QH: Would you go back? Why/why not? SG: Yes, [we] would definitely come back, [there’s] still lots more dishes on the menu I have to try and some of the ones we had, I have to eat again! The W is always a favourite and you just can’t go wrong with Italian, so that’s a winning combination – also for a business lunch etc. [I’m] looking forward to the truffle specials that the chef talked to us about, coming up in October – definitely will not miss out on that one!

SG: [I’m] looking forward to sitting outside on the terrace when the weather gets cooler! n For more information on La Spiga by Paper Moon call 4453-5135, email BnFreservations.wdoha@whotels.com, or visit www.laspigadoha.com.

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

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

QH RECOMMENDS

Mushrooms & Co.

October 14-27: Cucina. The king of mushrooms deserves more respect. Come and celebrate by savouring their authentic mushroom specialties. Live entertainment every Sunday and Monday. Price is QR 55. From 6:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4419-6100, or visit www.marriottmarquisdining.com.

Sunday Crossroasts

Sundays: Crossroads Kitchen. Relish the traditional British roast with a Yorkshire pudding to begin the work-week with a jump-start. Their traditional British Sunday Brunch buffet includes a selection of three roasts, traditional Yorkshire pudding, steamed vegetables, and a fish and chips live station. Prices start from QR 210. From 6:30 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4419-6100, or visit www.marriottmarquisdining.com.

THE GRAND HYATT Jazz Brunch

ANTICA PESA DOHA Friday Sommelier's Tasting

Fridays: A taste of four Italian grapes selections plus one after-dinner refreshment. QR 200 per person, excluding food. Starting at 12:00 noon. For more information call 4035-5300, email info@anticapesadoha.com, or visit www.kempinski.com/marsamalaz.

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

SPECIAL PROMOTIONS BANANA ISLAND RESORT DOHA BY ANANTARA The Ultimate PINK Friday Brunch

October 9: Azraq Restaurant. Savour a truly bespoke ‘pink’ brunch celebrating and supporting Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Experience an endless display of the choicest seafood, grilled delicacies, live cooking stations and decadent desserts. Complementing the personalized culinary journey are highly-skilled mixologists preparing tantalizing mocktails and shakes. This fantastic restaurant welcomes families with children and has a children’s area designed especially for even the youngest discerning guests. From 1:00 p.m. till 4:00 p.m. QR 295 including boat transportation, and QR 50 for kids between the ages of 3-11 years-old including boat transportation. For more information call 4040-5050, email fbreservations.adoh@anantara.com, or visit doha.anantara.com.

Lighting The Flames

October 1-11: Q Lounge. Live an ultimate authentic dining experience full of the true flavours of India’s with celebrity Chefs the Qureshi Brothers. They’ll be preparing a special menu of traditional dum cooked biryanis, authentic curries, and their family recipes which date back a generation. For more information call 4040-5050, email fbreservations.adoh@anantara.com, or visit doha.anantara.com.

DOHA MARRIOTT The Late Brunch Is Back In Town!

Fridays: The View. Every Friday at the View Poolside Restaurant, experience the awesome, re-vamped outdoor Late Brunch! Shaking up the city’s brunch scene, join in for Doha’s first and only Late Brunch! Chill out and watch the sunset by the pool with spectacular views across the city and the famous backdrop of the Doha skyline. With funky tunes, full grill,buffet and seafood selections, dance the night away under the stars! Including ‘all-in’ refreshments and BBQ! QR 380 per person. From 6:00 p.m. till 10:30 p.m. For more information call 4429-8499.

MARRIOTT MARQUIS CITY CENTER DOHA Plate Of The Art

October 4: Cucina. Bring out the Da Vinci in you! Come, decorate or paint a plate and create your very own Mona Lisa. Live entertainment will be on hand with an authentic Italian singer. QR 199 inclusive of a buffet of appetizers, plus three beverages. From 7:00 p.m. till 10:00 p.m. For more information call 4419-6100, or visit www.marriottmarquisdining.com.

October 23: The Grill. Jazz it up a little and join The Grill for a jazz brunch from 12:30 noon till 3:30 p.m. Soft beverage package QR 295, special beverage package QR 420. For more information call 4448-1240,or 7798-2400.

THE RITZ-CARLTON Vendemmia Festa

October 22: Fountain Yard. For the first time in Doha celebrate Italian heritage during The Ritz-Carlton’s ‘Vendemmia Festa’. With the perfect autumn weather, this joyous Italian celebration with traditional Tuscan dishes will illuminate your evening. From the crisscrossing lamps scattered troughout the fountain patio, to the melody of the house guitarist, the fire torches and friends galore, it’s a picture-perfect evening in Italy. For more information call 4484-8000, or email rc.dohrz.leads@ritzcarlton.com.

Chef’s Table At La Mer

October 9: La Mer. Bienvenue a Burgundy! The passionate pursuit of simple, delicious food has been elevated to a fine art-form at the hotel’s signature restaurant. With panoramic views of Qatar, La Mer welcomes guests to embark in a culinary adventure as Chef William Khala takes you to the valleys of French gastronomy. Starting at 7:00 p.m. For more information call 4484-8000, or email rc.dohrz.leads@ritzcarlton.com. ‎

WYNDHAM GRAND REGENCY Marrakesh Night

Thursdays: Tangia Restaurant. Enjoy an authentic Marrakesh buffet at Tangia Restaurant. Gentlemen pay QR 240 and ladies pay QR 200. From 6:30 p.m. till 11:00 p.m., with daily live entertainment between 7:00 p.m. and 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4434-3203/3333, email wgrf&b@wyndham.com, or visit wwww.wyndhamgrandregency.com.

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REGULAR PROMOTIONS ANTICA PESA DOHA Pranzo All’ Italiana Brunch

Fridays: Enjoy signature Roman recipes at this simple and classic a la carte Pranzo all' Italiana brunch. A la carte prices available. Brunch starts at 12 noon. For more information call 4035-5300, email info@anticapesadoha.com, or visit www.kempinski.com/marsamalaz.

In The Cucina Of Chef Marco

Tuesdays: Learn the basics of the oldest and most-loved cuisines in the kitchen of Antica Pesa’s Executive Chef Marco Calcaterra. QR 380 per lesson, or QR 1,500 for the full month. From 11:30 a.m. till 1:30 p.m. For more information call 4035-5300, email info@anticapesadoha.com, or visit www.kempinski.com/marsamalaz.

BANANA ISLAND RESORT DOHA BY ANANTARA ‘Naan’-Stop Tandoori

Wednesdays: Azraq Restaurant. Enjoy an authentic Indian buffet serving tandoor cuisine, prepared and served at live cooking stations. The textures, flavours and expressive range of Indian cuisine are sumptuously brought alive. Diners can choose from a selection of seafood, meat and vegetarian Indian food options in Azraq Restaurant. From 7:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4040-5050.

Seafood Night Fiesta

Thursdays: Azraq Restaurant. Let your taste-buds run wild at Food Fantasy's spectacular seafood buffet at Azraq Restaurant. Situated in the middle of the sea, Anantara brings you the most succulent ‘catch-of-the-day’ seafood where quality and diversity are the key words for an exceptional seafood buffet. From 7:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4040-5050.

Ultimate New Friday Brunch Azraq Restaurant. Every Friday at Azraq, savour a truly bespoke brunch experience with an endless display of the choicest seafood, grilled delicacies, live cooking stations and decadent desserts complemented with a captivating live contemporary band. Complementing the personalized culinary journey are highly-skilled mixologists preparing tantalizing beverages such as the signature Arabian Snapper mocktail. This fantastic restaurant welcomes families with children and has a children’s area designed especially for even the youngest discerning guests. From 1:00 p.m. till 4:00 p.m. For more information call 4040-5050.

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

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FOOD & DINING DOHA MARRIOTT Business Lunch

Sun-Thurs: Corniche Restaurant. It’s time to mix business with pleasure! Enjoy a light lunch in a bright setting at Corniche Restaurant with their new Express Business Lunch. With a weekly menu rotation, sample Mediterranean favourites and regional specialties with highlights including homemade tortellini, Oriental skewers and classic lamb flatbread. Delight in the carefully selected three-course set menu together with an unlimited salad bar, all for QR 95. From 12:00 noon till 3:00 p.m. For more information call 4429-8499.

JW’s Steakhouse

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

Weekend Brunch

Fri & Sat: Restaurant Gallery. Discover an array of live stations and specialties featuring favourite dishes from around the globe. Highlights from the weekend brunch include a wide selection of fresh sushi, Peking duck, fajitas, Oriental grills, pizza, curries, biryanis, fresh seafood, ice cream and more. Now offering a kids’ club zone with a special kids’ buffet and activities. QR 270 for regular brunch and QR 375 for special brunch. From 12:30 noon till 4:00 p.m. For more information call 4429-8499.

GRAND HERITAGE DOHA Bento Box

Daily: Blue Restaurant. For only QR 99 enjoy a delicious soup, main course and a dessert with one soft drink. For more information call 4445-5555.

Family Brunch

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

HILTON DOHA Theme Nights

Wed- Sat: Mawasem. Indulge in a lavish family buffet, or taste the world with their theme nights. Wednesday is steak night, Thursday and Friday seafood extravaganza, and Saturday is their Asian night. Regular price is QR 250 with soft drinks, or QR 350 with special beverages. From 7:00 p.m. till 10:00 p.m. For more information call 4423-3112 or email doha.restaurants@hilton.com.

Tiki-Style Brunch

Fri & Sat: Trader Vic’s. Trader Vic’s welcomes you with new chef creations, signature dishes and refreshments with your family and friends from 12:00 noon till 3:00 p.m., for QR 395 every Friday. Also, don’t miss their lunch menu served only on Saturday. For more information call 4423-3112 or email doha.restaurants@hilton.com.

Listings INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA The Drunch

Seafood Night

Hellenic Chill-Out

KEMPINSKI RESIDENCES & SUITES Greek Seafood Fiesta

Fridays: The Fish Market. For those who prefer to enjoy the pool or beach and always miss the brunch, they have an alternative for you – an indulgent Friday Late Brunch with all your seafood favourites alongside a beautiful sunset over the Arabian Sea. From 6:30 p.m. till 11:30 p.m. for QR 375 with unlimited house and soft beverages, freshly-brewed coffee and a selection of tea and juices. Kids dine for QR 160. For more information call 4484-4919 or 4484-4444.

Daily: Mykonos. Every afternoon from 3:00 p.m. till 6:00 p.m., Mykonos transforms their outdoor terrace into a truly Mediterranean chill-out lounge where you can enjoy a selection of refreshments while listening to the best house music. For more information call 4484-4919 or 4484-4444.

Ocean Basket

Mondays: Mykonos. Every Monday, Mykonos brings the Mediterranean Sea to your table. Enjoy a mezze selection (including salads, starters and dips), followed by an indulgent grilled mixed seafood platter. End with a sweet note and try the ice cream selection. QR 150 per person. For more information call 4484-4919 or 4484-4444.

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA THE CITY The Business Lunch Sat-Thurs: The Square. Take time out of your busy work schedule and enjoy a three-course business lunch. The a la carte menu offers a wide selection of delectable starters and mouth-watering main courses, including locally-sourced seafood, prime cuts of meat, vegetarian options and a dessert. From 12:00 noon till 3:00 p.m. QR 88 for three courses, inclusive of one soft beverage. For more information call 4015-8888 or email doharestaurants@ihg.com.

Daily Theme Nights

Daily: The Square. Feast on an exciting array of international dishes every Friday, Saturday and Sunday evening. Then, Monday offers the best of the Mediterranean and includes authentic Italian, Spanish, Lebanese, Moroccan, French and Greek delicacies. Or, take a trip to Asia every Tuesday where Thai, Chinese, Japanese and Indian favourites take centre-stage. Experience the theme nights daily from 6:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. QR 180 excluding beverages, or QR 250 including unlimited house beverages from 7:00 p.m. till 9:00 p.m. For more information call 4015-8888 or email doharestaurants@ihg.com.

Cosmopolitan Thursdays

Thursdays: The Square. Celebrate the beginning of the weekend with dinner and refreshments with friends at The Square. Enjoy international popular dishes on the buffet from 6:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. along with your favourite house beverages. Priced at QR 300 including selected house beverages, or QR 230 inclusive of soft drinks and mocktails. For more information call 4015-8888 or email doharestaurants@ihg.com.

Wednesdays: The Square. Delectable locallysourced seafood is on offer every Wednesday from 6:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. Cold seafood salads, fresh seafood cooked a la minute at the live cooking stations and an enviable dessert station will make it a night to remember. Priced at QR 350 per person including selected house beverages, or QR 250 per person inclusive of soft drinks and mocktails. For more information call 4015-8888 or email doharestaurants@ihg.com.

Daily: Aroma. A Greek seafood extravaganza menu is available throughout September in Aroma. Taste traditionally-prepared flavours such as grilled octopus, marinated sardines, steamed black mussels, and fish such as scorpion and cod. Finish the meal with Greek desserts such as karidopita. Set menu price at QR 345 including special beverage pairing, or QR 250 including soft beverages. A la carte menu is also available. 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.

Steak & Grapes Menu

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

Business Lunch

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

LA CIGALE International Cuisine

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

Sushi Mania

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

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LA VARENNE Brunch

Fridays: 28th floor, Tornado Tower. Join La Varenne every Friday from 1:00 p.m. till 4:00 p.m. to indulge in their interpretation of a table-top brunch. Enjoy a full-course, all-you-care-to-eat menu with sharingstyle dishes showcasing an array of the best La Varenne classics, along with their hors d'oeuvres and dessert trolleys. QR 235 per person including soft beverages and QR 395 per person including house beverages selection. For more information call 4499-0680 or email reservations@lavarenne.qa.

Business Lunch

Sat-Thurs: 28th floor, Tornado Tower. Enjoy the most exquisite French business lunch in Doha with two courses for QR 85 and three courses for QR 95. For more information call 4499-0680 or email reservations@lavarenne.qa.

MARRIOTT MARQUIS CITY CENTER DOHA Brunch & Tunes

Fridays: Crossroads Kitchen. Start your weekends out right with live tunes, an interactive international brunch buffet and activities to keep the kids entertained. 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.

Sweet & Savoury Crêpes

Daily: Quick Bites. Enjoy the authentic finesse of France with this delectable artistic treat. Choose from the finest selection of sweet and savoury crêpes at Quick Bites for 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.

Tomahawk – Can You Handle It?

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

MARSA MALAZ KEMPINSKI Sawa Goes Mediterranean

Thursdays: Sawa. Every Thursday Sawa transforms into a Mediterranean culinary haven. Explore a buffet with authentic starters, salads and cheeses from the region, grilled fish and meat, oysters, live pasta cooking stations and even real Italian gelato! QR 220 per person. From 6:00 p.m. till 10:30 p.m. For more information call 4035-5011, email restaurants.marsamalaz@kempinski.com, or visit www.kempinski.com/marsamalaz.

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FOOD & DINING Tandoori Vs. Wok

Fridays: Sawa. Tandoori ovens battle with wok pans over your appetite in Sawa! The buffet offers a large selection of curry dishes, ranging from traditional Indian recipes to curry dishes from Thailand, along with delicacies freshly-prepared in wok pans. QR 220 per person. From 6:00 p.m. till 10:30 p.m. For more information call 4035-5011, email restaurants.marsamalaz@kempinski.com, or www.kempinski.com/marsamalaz.

Tapeo After Work

Wednesdays: El Faro. Enjoy your favourite beverage with a complimentary selection of inimitably authentic Spanish tapas and pintxos. From 5:00 p.m. till 9:00 p.m. For more information call 4035-5011, email restaurants.marsamalaz@kempinski.com, or visit www.kempinski.com/marsamalaz.

Paella Tuesdays

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

1001 Nights Chef's Choice Menu

Daily: Al Sufra. This surprise feast menu takes you on a journey through the Levant cuisines, designed by Al Sufra's Head Chef Julien Al-Khal. QR 900 for two people including soft beverages. From 7:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4035-5011, email restaurants.marsamalaz@kempinski.com, or visit www.kempinski.com/marsamalaz.

Levant Lunch

Mon-Sat: Al Sufra. The rich, traditional Arabic recipes of Al Sufra are now available for lunch. Have a relaxing break from work and indulge in comforting, homemade food, prepared by the expert culinary team at Al Sufra. From 12:30 p.m. till 3:30 p.m. For more information call 4035-5011, email restaurants.marsamalaz@kempinski.com, or visit www.kempinski.com/marsamalaz.

MONTE’S Now Open!

Sun-Sat: Ground floor, Tornado Tower. At lunch-time buy any pre-packed sandwich or wrap, plus crisps or cookie and a soda or water for only QR 48. Or, any a large salad plus soda orwater for QR 45. For more information call 4499-0689.

MÖVENPICK HOTEL DOHA The Great Sunday Roast

Sundays: Seasons. Every Sunday, Seasons celebrates 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 at Nana’s house. QR 160 per person. Add QR 65 for an additional three refreshments or two glasses house beverage. For more information call 4429-1138.

Listings Taste The world

Mon & Tues: Seasons. Indulge in a colourful collection of international creations. Each week their talented chefs draw inspiration from many cultural cuisines to present a wide variety of authentic flavours and aromas from around the world. You will 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. Experience the wholesome freshness of the all-new Seasons Friday Brunch. Inspired by the popular Marché theme, Seasons boasts an extravagant market-like concept with a variety of creative live cooking stations using only the freshest and most wholesome ingredients. Expect premium-quality selections of cheeses, roasts, sushi and desserts, not to mention a dedicated station offering a special beverage-ofthe-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 to keep them entertained. QR 200 per person. Add QR 30 for soft beverages or QR 75 for special refreshments. For more information call 4429-1138.

ORYX ROTANA X'Press Lunch & Dinner

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

Tapas Galore Selection

Tuesdays: The Cellar. Enjoy The Cellar’s array of 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.

Latin Night

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

RADISSON BLU Friday Brunch Hyde Park. This Friday brunch caters to the tastes of each guest with over 30 dishes from around the world. The hotel provides extensive children’s activities and games along with supervising staff that will take care of the kids while the adults are entertained by a live band. QR 160 per person (buffet only) and QR 210 per person inclusive of special refreshments. From 12:00 noon to 3:00 p.m. For more information call 4428-1555.

SHERATON DOHA Seafood Night

Wed & Thurs: Al Hubara. Enjoy a sumptuous Seafood Night with a lavish buffet selection prepared with the finest ingredients. QR 330 inclusive of unlimited soft beverages, with a 50% discount for kids between the ages of six to 12-years-old, while kids below the age of six dine for free. From 7:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4485-3000.

International Brunch

Fridays: Al Hubara. Spend quality time with your loved ones. Dine and enjoy an array of international specialties at Al Hubara Restaurant. QR 350 per person inclusive of unlimited soft beverages, with a 50% discount for kids between the ages of six to 12-years-old, while children below the age of six dine for free. Every Friday from 12:30 noon till 3:30 p.m. For more information call 4485-3000.

Weekend Brunch All'Italiana

Fri & Sat: La Veranda. La Veranda’s Italian Chef Federiko Carsili creates an irresistibly sumptuous weekend buffet every Friday and Saturday for brunch. The weekend brunch includes barbecue and pasta à la minute, live stations, fresh seafood and salad-bars, house-made sandwiches, antipasti and cold-cuts buffets, Doha’s most generous variety of imported Italian and French premium-quality cheeses, and a rich selection of artisanal pastries and desserts. Top up your culinary experience with free-flow special beverage packages. Starts from QR 290. Kids between the ages of six and 12-yearsold will receive a 50% discount, while children below the age of six can dine for free. For more information call 4485-3000.

Pizza Class With Chef Federico Carsili

Saturdays: La Veranda. Want to be a pizza chef? Join in for a pizza class at La Veranda, hosted by Chef Federico Carsili –a fun tutorial for all pizza-lovers that’s not to be missed. Every Saturday from 4:30 p.m. till 6:00 p.m. Advance bookings must be made. QR 150 per person, with a maximum of 15 attendees. For more information call 4485-3000.

THE ANVIL ROOMS The Blacksmith’s Lunch

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

SHARQ VILLAGE & SPA Weekend Brunch

Fri & Sat: Al Liwan. Unwind with friends and family and indulge in a luxurious buffet featuring the freshest seafood, Middle Eastern favourites and international classics. From 12:30 noon till 4:00 p.m. at QR 325 per person, or QR 420 inclusive of selected beverages. QR 125 for children ages six to 12. For more information call 4425-6666, email rc.dohsq.reservations@ritzcarlton.com, or visit www.ritzcarlton.com/sharqvillage.

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Sushi Mania

Mon & Wed: Al Dana. Enjoy masterfully and freshly-prepared platters of sushi, maki and sashimi at their special open sushi night every Monday and Wednesday for QR 215 per person. From 6:30 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4425-6666, email rc.dohsq.reservations@ritzcarlton.com, or visit www.ritzcarlton.com/sharqvillage.

THE FOUR SEASONS Piatto Unico

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

Sapore Italiano

Fridays: Il Teatro. Their infamous family-style lunch has to be experienced by the whole family! Their talented chefs have created an Italian four-course menu using fresh ingredients to satisfy your palate. QR 250 per person including regular refreshments, and QR 350 per person including special refreshments. Served every Friday from 12:30 p.m. until 4:30 p.m. For more information call 4494-8631.

THE GRAND HYATT New A La Carte Menu

Daily: The Grill. German Chef Martin Kretzschmar introduces The Grill’s new menu, inspired by his European, Middle Eastern and Asian experiences. Don’t miss out on The Grill’s signature dish the Tomahawk steak, enough for two people, and their delicious French onion soup. For more information call 4448-1240 or 7798-2400.

Curry Nights

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

Chatuchak Weekend Market Brunch Fridays: Isaan. Get an outstanding Thai Chatuchak Weekend Market experience, every Friday for brunch from 12:30 noon till 4:00 p.m. Walk around and explore the colourful array of live cooking stations and market-like stalls. A range of options are available. Enjoy a soft drink brunch for QR 280, a house beverage package for QR 395 and the special brunch for QR 680. For more information call 7021-8097.

Friday Brunches

Fridays: The Grill. Enjoy every Friday from 12:30 noon till 3:30 p.m. one of the finest brunches in town with themed concepts almost every week. Soft refreshments brunch for QR 295 or QR 420 for a special refreshments brunch. For more information call 4448-1240/7798-2400 for bookings and enquiries.

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FOOD & DINING THE RITZ-CARLTON Friday Brunch

Fridays: The Lagoon. Bring all the family for a relaxing weekend brunch. Live music complements the delicious buffet of Middle Eastern specialties and international live cooking stations. Children have their own junior buffet and entertainment. QR 305 per person including soft beverages, QR 395 per person including house beverages, or QR 425 for full brunch. Kids under the age of four can dine for free. QR 150 for kids ages 4-12 years-old. From 12:30 noon till 4:00 p.m. Last order for beverages is at 3:30 p.m. For more information call 4484-8000, or email rc.dohrz.leads@ritzcarlton.com.

Saturday Roast

Saturdays: Admiral’s Club. Enjoy a lavish platter to end the weekend, situated in the perfect setting by the marina at the Admiral’s Club. QR 120 per portion. From 1:00 p.m. till 10:00 p.m. For more information call 4484-8000, or email rc.dohrz.leads@ritzcarlton.com.

THE ST. REGIS DOHA Burger & Pint Night

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

Gourmet Chili-Dog Nights

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

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.

THE TORCH DOHA Fine Steaks & Prime Cuts

Tues & Thurs: Three Sixty. The restaurant introduces a selection of fine steaks and prime cuts served every Tuesday and Thursday including a Chateaubriand beef roast sharing platter, T-bone steak, Black Angus short ribs and Wagyu filet at Doha’s only revolving restaurant. For more information call 4446-5600, or email restaurant.reservations@thetorchdoha.com.

Seafood Spectacular

Thursdays: Flying Carpet. Indulge in an array of fresh seafood for grilling, frying, wok and much more at QR 250 per person including selected soft drinks and chilled juices. Served from 7:00 p.m. till 10:30 p.m. For more information call 4446-5600, or email restaurant.reservations@thetorchdoha.com.

Listings Tex-Mex Night

Wednesday: Flying Carpet. The restaurant serves a wide selection of steaks, burgers and hot dogs at QR 200 per person including soft drinks and chilled juices. From 7:00 p.m. till 10:30 p.m. For more information call 4446-5600, or email restaurant.reservations@thetorchdoha.com.

Seafood Extravaganza

Moroccan Brunch

Fri & Sat: Tangia Restaurant. Tangia Restaurant presents a traditional Moroccan brunch with a variety of tagines, salads and Moroccan bread for only QR 149 per person. From 12:00 noon till 4:00 p.m. For more information call 4434-3203/3333, email wgrf&b@wyndham.com, or visit www.wyndhamgrandregency.com.

Wed & Fri: Panorama. The chefs present an exclusive seafood menu featuring shrimp biryani, hammour sayadia, prawn tempura, lobster thermidor, and Panorama’s signature mixed seafood delight at QR 300 including soft drinks and chilled juices. From 7.00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4446-5600, or email restaurant.reservations@thetorchdoha.com.

Chinese Bliss

W DOHA Pitcher Perfect

Saturdays: Chopsticks Restaurant. Chopsticks is serving a delightful miso soup followed by a Sushi Fiesta. Eat as much you can for only QR 169 per person. From 6:30 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. Immerse yourself in an electrical range of original and sensational sushi platters and try their sushi made of chicken, beef and duck exclusively at Chopsticks, the award-winning restaurant. For more information call 44343203/3333, email wgrf&b@wyndham.com, or visit www.wyndhamgrandregency.com.

Sun-Thurs: Market by Jean-Georges. Enjoy signature Market by Jean-Georges refreshments served in pitchers with your favourite bites at this award-winning restaurant – all for QR 160. From 5:00 p.m. till 7:00 p.m. For more information call 4453-5135, or email bnfreservations.wdoha@whotels.com.

Burger Night

Sundays: Market by Jean-Georges. Start your week with your favourite burger, side dish and one amazing sundae from the selection – all for QR 125 per person. From 6:00 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4453-5135 or email bnfreservations.wdoha@whotels.com.

Sip & Savour

Sat-Thurs: Spice Market. Try Spice Market’s signature refreshments alongside a combination of mouth-watering snacks with a 50% discount on selected beverages. For more information call 4453-5135 or email bnfreservations.wdoha@whotels.com.

Jazz Brunch

Thursdays: Chopsticks Restaurant. Chopsticks is serving a delightful Chinese-food dinner buffet for only QR 169. From 6:30 p.m. till 11:00 p.m. For more information call 4434-3203/3333, email wgrf&b@wyndham.com, or visit www.wyndhamgrandregency.com.

Sushi Fiesta

SPECIAL LISTINGS ASPIRE KATARA HOSPITALITY ASPIRE GRAND CAFÉ Bagel Day, Every Day!

Daily: Aspire Park. Aspire Grand Café’s latest addition to the menu is a new bagel experience. For more information call 4449-3963.

CHAC’LATE Tahini Bomb

Fridays: Market by Jean-Georges. Enjoy a delicious brunch with live entertainment by Doha Jazz. QR 410 per person including house beverages, or QR 295 including soft drinks. For more information call 4453-5135 or email bnfreservations.wdoha@whotels.com.

Daily: Katara Cultural Village. Enjoy hazelnut cake and tahini ice cream enclosed in a dark chocolate shell, garnished with cookie crumbs and fresh berries, and accompanied with mouth-watering, warm dark chocolate syrup. For more information call 4408-0733.

Vietnamese Sundays

Ice Berry Tisane

Sundays: Spice Market. Inspired by the vibrant street-life of Southeast Asia, Spice Market introduces an all new Vietnamese Night. It’s all about the balance of flavours, the yin and yang, the sweet and salty, the fresh and fermented, spread across eight courses prepared every Sunday at Spice Market. QR 150 per person. For more information call 4453-5135 or email bnfreservations.wdoha@whotels.com.

WYNDHAM GRAND REGENCY Business Lunch

Sun-Thurs: Tangia Restaurant. Enjoy an authentic Moroccan Business Lunch in Tangia Restaurant with a three-course set menu for only QR 87 per person including beverages. From 12:00 noon till 3:00 p.m. For more information call 4434-3203/3333, email wgrf&b@wyndham.com, or visit www.wyndhamgrandregency.com.

Daily: Katara Cultural Village. Delight you palate with fresh orange and lemon juice garnished with slices of fresh orange and berries. For more information call 4408-0733.

BURGERI Hail Caesar

Daily: Aspire Park. A new, scrumptious Caesar salad is available at Burgeri for QR 30. For more information call 4449-3958.

B. Mighty

Daily: Aspire Park. Get your hands on a choice meat patty topped with strips of smoked turkey, fresh lettuce, tomatoes, onions and melted smoky cheddar cheese. For more information call 4449-3958.

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RED VELVET CUPCAKERY Summer Quencher

Daily: Katara Cultural Village. Buy a mouth-watering cupcake of your choice and a refreshing lemon ice tea for QR 25. For more information call 4408-0700.

L’WZAAR SEAFOOD MARKET Teppanyaki Dinner

Daily: Katara Cultural Village. Enjoy fresh meat and seafood dishes with options to choose from off of the a la carte menu or seafood market counter. For more information call 4408-0710/11.

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

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

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

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

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

line! See ushapon pening.com www.qatar

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FOOD & DINING

Directory

Trader Vic’s Hilton Doha

Nobu The Four Seasons

INTERNATIONAL Antica Pesa Marsa Malaz Kempinski

SPANISH & TEX-MEX Aceite 4018-8894 Caminito 4447-0000 Chili’s 4466-0663 4035-5555 El Faro Ipanema 4419-6100 Latino Steakhouse 4485-3000 Oyster Bay 4446-0105 4484-4444 Paloma Picasso’s 4428-1428 Rodizio Brazilian Churrascaria 4408-7777 Salsa 4429-8888 Toro Toro Doha 4035-5101

ARABIC & LEBANESE Agora 4445-5555 Al Balad 4491-8692 Al Bandar 4431-1818 4432-8888 Al Batross 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 4468-5089 Istanbul Sultan Dining Restaurant 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

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

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

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 Al Liwan Restaurant 4424-2888 4433-6777 Al Matbakh Rooftop Grill ForKnife 4496-6600 Baraha 4447-0000 Blue Brasserie Restaurant 4472-2666 4402-3333 Choices Corniche 4429-8888 Crossroads Kitchen 4419-6100 4446-5600 Flying Carpet Grand Gourmet 4434-3333 La Brasserie 4446-2222 La Cigalon Restaurant 4428-8888 Mawasem 4423-3333 Mehfil Restaurant 4409-4444 Nando’s Delivery Hotline 4436-0606 Panorama 4446-5600 4494-8600 Pool Grill The Dining Room 4433-6666 (Al Najada Boutique Hotel) The Grill 4448-1234 The Lagoon 4484-8000 The Village Souq Waqif 3331-1558 Three Sixty 4446-5600 Torch Tea Garden 4446-5600 Vine 4446-0105

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

4035-5011 4495-3876 4495-3876 4419-6100 4428-8698 4416-5641 4494-8888 4436-7991 4453-5135 4485-3000 4408-1500 4016-6000 4484-8000 4448-1272 4428-1428

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Savor Café Lounge ess Park Crowne Plaza Doha - The Busin

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

Al Shurfa Arabic Lounge Al Jomrok Boutique Hotel

The Anvil Rooms Tornado Tower

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

MEDITERRANEAN

AMERICAN & BURGERS

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

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

PERSIAN

SEAFOOD

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

Almaskar 4485-3000 Al Dana 4425-6666 Al Dente Seafood Restaurant 4472-2666 Al Sayyad 4484-7420 Al Sultan Brahim 4446-0105 Fish Market 4484-4444 L’wzaar Seafood Market 4408-0710 Pampano 4495-3876 Pier 12 4428-1428

SOUTHEAST ASIAN 4429-8888 Asia Live! Chowking Delivery Hotline 4431-1212 Mamoura 4486-6077 Al Khor 4411-8816/17 Salwa Road 4437-1212 Al Sadd St. 4431-4411 Holiday Villa 4411-5225/335 Isaan 4448-1250 Mango Tree 4495-3876 Nusantao: Sea Kitchens 4494-8888 Spice Market 4453-5353 Sri Kebaya 4434-0838 The Noodle House City Center Mall 4411-5063 The Pearl 4495-3876 Wok Mee Noodle House 4496-6600

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

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

Alison Nelson’s Chocolate Ba 4495-3876, Ext. 1311 Al Jalsa 4425-6666 Al Kut Lounge 4434-3203 Allegria 4485-3000 Al Mandarine 4463-3748 Anima Gallery & Lounge 4002 7437 Arabica 4494-8600 Aspire Grand Café 4449-3963 4485-4444 Atrium Lounge Biscotti 4448-1282 Café Murano 4035-5555 4495-3876, Ext. 2611 Café Vergnano Chac’Late 4408-2000 Colombiano 4434-2753 4451-9780 Dean and Deluca Gourmet House 4405-3333 Jones the Grocer 4407-7175 Le Gourmet 4436-1789 Maya La Chocolatiere Landmark Mall 4486-2264 Villaggio Mall 4417-8132 MBCo The Gate Mall 4407-7130 Al Emaadi Financial Square 4411-7224 Moka and Co 4458-3232 Monte's 4499-0689 Orangery Café Troittor 4428-8888 Quick Bites 4419-6134 4408-0700. Red Velvet Cupcakery 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 Sweet Temptations 4485-3000 The Courtyard 4433-6444 The Drawing Room 4433-6666 The Lobby Lounge 4484-8000 The Terrace Lounge 4433-6555 Torch Café 4446-5600 W Café 4453-5353 Ya Hala 4423-3333

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SPORTS

Top Picks

DOHA MARRIOTT Boxercise

Tues, Thurs & Sat: Enjoy self-defense training thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s safe and, most of all, fun! This program is great for body conditioning 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! Advanced Boxercise will be held on Tuesdays and Saturdays and Beginner Boxercise on Thursdays. From 6:00 p.m. till 7:00 p.m. For more information call 4429-8520.

POSE. POINTE. PLAY. Kids Yoga Classes

Ongoing: More parents in Qatar are turning to yoga to entertain their children and keep them healthy. Qualified yoga instructor Hannah Varley offers private and group yoga classes for kids at Yama Yoga studios in Asas Towers and at Strongbox Gym in Al Jazi Gardens compound. She also offers ballet lessons and piano instruction through Pose. Pointe. Play. For more information call 5564-3248, email pose.pointe.play@gmail.com, or follow @posepointeplay on Twitter and Facebook.

THE GRAND HYATT Fitness Classes

Daily: Jaula Club. In partnership with EVOLVE â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Mind/Body/Soul, these weekly classes for Jaula members are QR 50 and non-members for QR 65. Yoga classes are priced at QR 60 for Jaula members and in-house guests, and QR 75 for non-members. Enjoy a special offer for every five classes, one class is free and for every ten paid classes, three are free. For more information call 4448-1060.

BANANA ISLAND RESORT DOHA BY ANANTARA Bowling Happy Hour

All-Month: When the weather outside is scorching, why not stay cool on the lanes? Play one game for QR 50 per person and the second one will be on them. From 10:00 a.m. till 4:00 p.m. during weekdays from Sunday to Wednesday. For more information call 4040-5050.

SHARQ VILLAGE & SPA Full Moon Yoga

October 27: Al Dana Garden. Practice yoga under the stars with their specialized instructors. QR 60 for non-members, QR 30 for members. From 7:00 p.m. till 9:00 p.m. For more information call 4425-6999.

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SPECIAL PROMOTION

Luxury On The High Seas The third edition of the Qatar International Boat Show (QIBS) will drop anchor at Lusail City mid-November and QH brings you a sneak peek from the dock.

he Middle East's premier yachting lifestyle event, the Qatar International Boat Show, will set sail to impress maritime aficionados from November 10-14 at Lusail’s Mourjan Marina. This year, the highly-anticipated show is expected to attract over 15,000 visitors and showcase more than 120 exhibitors and 75 impressive motorboats, luxury yachts and unique dhows. Watercraft will be displayed both on land and on the water, and will be complemented by exhibitor chalets representing many of the top names in the maritime industry – both local and international – along the marina walkway. Adding to the festive atmosphere will be a number of food and beverage outlets and an array of captivating side events happening on a daily basis. QIBS will be open to the public from 2:30 p.m. till 9:30 p.m. on weekdays and from 12:30 noon till 9:30 p.m. on the weekends. The Lusail City development project is one of the largest and most elaborate concepts being undertaken around the world, spanning a substantial area of 38 square kilometres where more than 200,000 residents will live, work, raise their families and enjoy life in this unique community.

s From luxury liners, to royal yacht QIBS 2015 promises a showstopping array of watercraft

Encompassing not only new residential, commercial, and retail opportunities, but also a full array of community needs, Lusail City will be complete with schools, medical facilities, marinas, entertainment and shopping centres, providing employment opportunities for 170,000 people. Stay tuned for the November issue of QH for more exclusive details on the biggest names in the world of seafaring that will line the marina at this year’s Qatar International Boat Show. n

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SPORTS

n Qatar's national team – better know in football circles as 'The Maroon'

2022: Can Qatar Live With The World’s Best? Words and selected images by John Hunt

overall, and, as you might expect, they looked so, so strong in every department.

When the World Cup arrives on these shores in just seven years’ time, which teams are likely to be there, and will The Maroon be able to expect any success against the finest teams on the planet?

The point is that while the names on the teamsheet have obviously all changed since 1996, the song remains the same – Germany are a formidable outfit. They will be heading to Russia in 2018 to defend their title, and while they may or may not arrive in Qatar as five-time World Cup winners, they will be there regardless.

he penultimate time I saw current World Champions Germany in the flesh was at Wembley Stadium in 1996 when they beat the Czech Republic to become European Champions for the third time. Last month, I saw the four-time World Cup winners play Scotland in a EURO 2016 qualifier in Glasgow, with the visitors winning 3-2.

Who else will be landing at HIA in seven years’ time? Well, the usual suspects from Europe and South America will be heavily represented – Argentina, Brazil, France, Spain, etc. – but there will be a clutch of ‘minnows’ too, and there’s increasing evidence that these minnows might actually be able to raise a few eyebrows at the tournament.

That score-line suggests it might have been a close game, but in truth the Germans were untroubled

We return to Iceland, whose indigenous population (330,000) is near identical to that of Qatar.

Last month, for the first time in their history, Iceland qualified for a major tournament – next year’s European Championships in France, beating The Netherlands both home and away. So the question remains: if Iceland can do it, why not Qatar? I’ve interviewed the Iceland coaching team a couple of times in the past few years and they always insist there’s no secret to their success other than good facilities and good coaching. I’m not sure that’s the whole story; of their most recent squad, every single member plays their football overseas – playing in bigger and better European (and Asian) leagues where the capacity to improve as footballers is enormous in comparison with the domestic leagues. I have previously opined that Qatar needed to ‘internationalize’ its squad to reap the benefits described above, with previous squads showing that

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Germany's Thomas Müller (13), kicks one past Scotland's Alan Hutton (2) at the EURO 2016 qualifier in Glasgow

every single Maroon international was playing in the Qatar Stars League (QSL). It gladdened the heart, then, when looking at the most recent Qatar squad, to see the name of Akram Afif, the 18-year-old forward, who is playing for the 2nd-tier Belgian side Eupen. Afif is one of the most promising footballers to come out of Qatar in some time, and, for this observer, he is going to learn a lot more in Belgium than being cosseted in the QSL. Eupen are owned by the Aspire Zone Foundation. Aspire (who also own French giants Paris Saint Germain) have actually gone on record as saying that they intend to use the club as a ‘launching pad’ into European football for its academy graduates. It would really be something if in 2022, Qatar had a squad which was chock-full of players plying their trade without the peninsula, and had shot up the FIFA rankings the way Iceland have – ranked 112th in 2010, they are now ranked the 23rd best side in the world, higher than 1998 World Cup winners France… So it would also really be something if some of the less storied teams that qualify for 2022 could make an impact – and certainly not beyond the realms of possibility if Iceland’s transformation is anything to go by. At this juncture, Qatar’s aim has to be to try and get out of their group and into the last 16. That would be viewed as success, but I doubt the current side could

manage it if the competition kicked off tomorrow. They don’t (yet) have the proven quality to beat world-class opposition and while beating Bhutan 15-0 is going to be a confidence booster, they wouldn’t be able to lay a glove on the likes of Germany.

18-year-old Akram Afif is one of the young Qatari hopefuls to watch

There’s a lot of work to be done between now and 2022 to avoid an exit at the first hurdle for Qatar, but having an international player of promise playing in Europe is hopefully going to become the norm, rather than an exception. Perhaps, then, Qatar can become the small country that over-achieves at the tournament it is hosting. n

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SPECIAL PROMOTION all adults are obese. Mix that with the general lack of fitness knowledge and you have a stream-lined process for the hospital bed. In order to combat these factors it’s important that people educate themselves on wellness and their physical capabilities through companies such as Evolve who can provide them with healthy eating programs, structured workouts and weight-loss guarantees.

Surgery vs. lifestyle change – is it worth the risk for temporary results?

The Myth Of The Quick Fix By Rowad Ehlela

From fad diets and risky surgeries, to lifestyle changes and paying your dues in the gym, QH weighs the benefits of going ‘old-school’ when it comes to fat-loss and overall health with the pros at EVOLVE – Mind/Body/Soul. Society’s Stance On ‘Healthy’ Since when have quick-fix solutions for long-term health goals been so socially accepted – and what are the after-effects of cosmetic surgery for weightloss? We look into the current trends in the fitness market and ask the simple question...’Is it worth it?’ With the ever-developing fitness market throwing new concepts and technologies at us, there’s no wonder such controversy surrounds fitness professionals and the general public alike when it comes to the purpose and practicality of fitness. Whether its liposuction or the new Hollywood waist trainer where do we turn when we’re in need of an answer?

Doctor Vs. Personal Trainer Society is notoriously impatient and, unfortunately, the fitness market is driving it with quick-fix solutions and easily-attained results. We must take care in the trends we accept and follow; the market is divided into genuine lifestyle pursuits and quickand-easy solutions which can often get misplaced through smart marketing and endorsements. Gone it seems are the days when fitness and exercise were singularly in pursuit of a healthy lifestyle. Having a flat stomach, an hour-glass figure and a glowing complexion were once outcomes of

hard work and dedication – whereas today they are sought out via doctor’s tablets and fancy, packaged goods. What we’re gradually moving away from are the genuine health benefits of training three to five times a week. These benefits to your vital organs, cardiovascular system and mental well-being are unattainable through quick-fix surgeries. The benefits of losing weight independently have renowned effects that surgery can’t offer – you must change your lifestyle, develop healthy eating habits and improve your outlook on well-being to achieve your goals naturally, allowing for a positive shape to take effect in your life and the lives of those around you. Your family, friends and loved ones are able to recognize the positive shift in your life brought on by your lifestyle change, which will gradually raise awareness and improve people’s education around well-being and its social benefits. Surgery simply provides a means to a problem in which no ongoing benefits are to be had and people are taught to gain the easiest, most time-efficient solutions and not work on themselves in a deeper way. If the Hollywood craze of cosmetic surgery and product-based solutions root themselves into a society such as Qatar, they could play an active role in stagnating health progress and education.

There’s a reason why surgery is recommended as a only a last resort for individuals to take, as it has adverse effects on the body and is a solution to the physical but not lifestyle component of health. Maher Safi, Marketing Director at the Qatar Olympic Committee, explains: “Our main focus is encouraging people to be active, getting them to lead healthy lifestyles – that's our vision.” It’s this vision that Evolve aims to support through a complete and holistic service factoring in education, knowledge on wellness, and encouraging positive lifestyle changes.

Next Steps For every result there is a means; the validity of the result is dependent on the means in which it was gained. If it was sought naturally and with hard work and dedication, then the likelihood of the result is that it’s positive. If you attained your end goal the ‘quick-and-easy’ way, then what did you learn along the way to carry your through life? What positive change can you pass on to your relatives and loved ones? What beneficial factors have you made to your lifestyle? Evolve encourages the ‘pursuit’—as this is where the learning process happens and where knowledge is truly attained. To help a nation we must all play our part as individuals. There are clear lifestyle concerns in Qatar that cannot be solved by a cosmetic surgeon. If the grass is greener on the other side, then head that way – the journey can be a great one! n Get yourself on track to optimal health by learning more about EVOLVE – Mind/Body/Soul’s services. For more information visit ww.evolvemindbodysoul.com.

Rather we seek lifestyle solutions. Weight-loss surgery was widely identified as a second step for individuals who couldn’t shift the weight themselves. However, today it seems as though more and more people are turning to the knife without having actively sought non-surgical solutions. Qatar is the richest nation on Earth, but its statistics show that half of

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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

LA CIGALE Tone & Shape

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

BoxFit

Ongoing: Ozone Gym & Spa. A stress-releasing workout, this 60-minute class uses boxing techniques that involve the muscles of the core, upper body, shoulders and hips to improve strength, endurance and agility. Complimentary for members, non-members pay QR 60 per class. Private classes are QR 200. For more information call 4428-8101.

Explosive Cardio

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.

BANANA ISLAND RESORT DOHA BY ANANTARA Diving Lovers

All-month: Even with the sun, sand and indulgence, diving lovers will be looking for something more. This is why Anantara 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; 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 the 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 Boot-Camp

Mondays: Are you looking for a new way to get your heart pumping? Why not take on the challenge with the Doha Marriottâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s weekly bootcamp class! Get your heart racing with explosive exercises that are designed to level up your overall fitness and aerobic capacity and put you on your way to a new and healthier you! From 6:00 p.m. till 7:00 p.m. For more information call 4429-8520.

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA TRX Fitness

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

Fitball

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

Core Strength

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

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

MARSA MALAZ KEMPINSKI 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 with coaches. For more information call 4035-5555, email spa.marsamalaz@kempinski.com, or visit www.kempinski.com/marsamalaz.

SHERATON DOHA Spinning

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

Martial Arts

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

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Activities & Clubs Bike Riding The Corniche Aspire Park

Bowling

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

Golf

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

Horse Riding

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

Ice-Skating

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

Sailing

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

Swimming

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

Tennis & Squash

Khalifa Tennis & Squash Complex 4440-9666

Walking

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

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Bilal Pearl Suites The Pearl Qatar

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

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

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

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QH SENSATIONS

Top Picks

SHARQ VILLAGE & SPA Back Relief

Daily: Six Senses Spa. This package of pure relaxation begins with a 50-minute back massage using natural ginger to warm and de-stress your back muscles. This journey concludes with a 30-minute Indian head massage to further calm your body mind. QR 700. For more information call 4425-6999/6995 or email reservations-sharq-spa@sixsenses.com.

THE ST. REGIS DOHA Customized Massage

Daily: Remède Spa. All Remède Spa experiences include a pre-treatment consultation to assess guests’ needs, as well as post-treatment relaxation time. Enjoy a 60-minute customized massage for QR 600, or a 90-minute customized massage for QR 750 and get complimentary afternoon tea. For more information call 4443-0300/0303.

THE GRAND HYATT Escape With Jaula

Daily: Jaula Spa. Experience true wellness with Jaula Spa and reserve a 90-minute massage and receive a complimentary mini-facial. For more information call 4448-1056.

HILTON DOHA Unwind & Relax ROOTS All About Beauty

Daily: roots hair and beauty, the premier women's salon in Qatar, is committed to delivering outstanding results through its experienced, passionate and best-in-class products, offering an exceptional, ‘home-away-from-home’ experience to each client, every single time. For more information call 4411-4463.

Daily: Eforea Spa. Spoil yourself with a relaxing and unique concept from Eforea – a sumptuous massage with Revive Body-Scrub and Express Facial for 60-minutes at a special price of QR 499 instead of QR 640. For more information call 3377-1340 or email Ana.Jovanovic@hilton.com.

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QH SENSATIONS

Eforea Escape By Ashlee Starratt & Jorge Granda Photography by Jessie Palanca

Work-week woes weighing you down? Shed the stress levels with an afternoon of pampering at the Hilton Doha’s calming Eforea Spa. We booked ourselves in for some top-notch tranquil treatments that left us zenned and cleansed. The Healing Touch It’s 2:00 p.m. on a Thursday afternoon and after a particularly stressful September issue, the crunch of October’s compressed deadlines aren’t straying very far from my mind. I haven’t been sleeping well, I haven’t been eating well and I haven’t been coping well. Hence, a bit of ‘me’ time is just what the doctor ordered – and Eforea Spa at Hilton is my backyard sanctuary (I live right next door!). Located on the lower level of the hotel it’s a spacious retreat where spa therapeutics are just the tip of the iceberg – their membership packages include access to the pool and beach facilities, gym and thermal areas, plus discounts on personal training sessions. Today, as I’m filling out my client form in the reception area, I can see a handful of

sunbathers relaxing on the lemony-yellow pool-side loungers and a few adrenaline junkies hoofing it on the treadmills inside the bright, airy gym. Some of the most memorable spa treatments I’ve experienced have been here at Eforea, but today I’ve come because my anxiety levels have brought me back to basics. I just want a massage – and a good one. I’ll be trying their 60-minute Meditation Massage that promotes mental and physical relaxation. The spa literature says it’s good for the overworked, the sleep deprived and those generally on the verge of a nervous breakdown (well…okay, not quite). But for me, it fits the bill.

First I’m escorted to the cloistered changing area to store my belongings and slip into a generously oversized robe that feels like a warm, welcome bear-hug. I meet my therapist Erika outside in the hallway and she guides me through the spa’s hushed hallways to the Bougainvillea Room where I’ll be having my massage. All of the spa’s treatment rooms are named after flowers (a whimsical touch!), and this room is actually more of a suite, with private steam-room and a roomy sink area behind sliding wooden doors. Erika begins by bathing and scrubbing my feet in hot water – a foot ritual that’s quite common before the start of any massage. For me the effect is immediate, and as my toes redden from the heat of the water and the soles begin to tingle from

the freshness of the exfoliating scrub, I come to understand why all relaxation begins in the feet and works its way upward like the roots of a growing tree.

Erika is from Romania and as I listen to the story of her background she speaks with gusto about her line of work. Her passion for bringing people joy through the art of relaxation and massage is clear as a bell. Before we begin she has me sniff three different kinds of essential oils by Charme d’Orient and I settle on a dusky scent of amber that promises a quick descent into slumber. As we begin, she starts on my back with a mediumto-firm pressure and long, kneading strokes that remind me the Swedish format of massage – although Eforea uses unique Australian Aboriginal techniques that are meant to invigorate the body’s self-healing capabilities. Concerned, Erika tells me I’m carrying so much tension in my shoulders and neck that she would like to use two hot stones (not generally used in this treatment) to help reduce the tightness of my muscles in those areas. Their effects are manifold and after a good 25 minutes working on my back she then moves on to my arms, legs and stomach before concluding the treatment with a decadent forehead and scalp massage. I leave feeling a bit sore – but in a good way, and the relaxing results are long-lasting enough to get me through another week of deadlines and copy-editing with nary a migraine in sight!

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Recline in style in Eforea's placid relaxation area

Luxuriate in the spa's thermal baths pre- or post-treatment

Fresh-Faced I’ve visited Eforea Spa at the Hilton Doha on previous occasions, but unfortunately my last visit wasn’t very pleasant. I had a stone massage and the stones were so hot that I could feel them burning my skin. Even though my therapist was extremely attentive, the overall experience was anything but. However – we all have a chance to redeem ourselves… so I decided to give Eforea a second chance. On this visit, I’ll be trying their 60-minute signature Customized Facial. I like facials because they’re one of the best ways to take care of your skin. A facial cleans, exfoliates and nourishes the epidermis, promoting a clear, well-hydrated complexion that makes your skin look younger – and this is the exact result I’m after. After wrapping my hair with a headband, the aesthetician begins with a thorough cleansing using

a cotton pad. She then proceeds to scrub my face with an exfoliant that gently rubs away dead cells on my skin’s surface; then comes the most unpleasant part of any facial – the extraction. I’m very lucky that I don’t have any pimples on my face, so this part only takes a couple of minutes. Afterwards I get a very soothing five- minute face massage to soften and prepare my skin for the hydrating mask. While the mask is on my face, she massages my skull with a light pressure…and that’s the last thing I remember because this is where I actually fell asleep. After my treatment I examine myself in the mirror and am pleased with the results –radiant and glowing. This time round my experience was way better than the last, and I got what I was looking for. Aside from the treatment, the spa is stunning – with a kind of futuristic, yet classic touch to the décor. It was well worth the relaxation – the service was top-notch and my therapist was very polite and attentive. Eforea is definitely back on my radar. n

EFOREA SPA Location: Lower level, Hilton Doha Timings: • 10:00 a.m. till 10:00 p.m., daily for treatments/massage • 9:00 a.m. till 2:00 p.m., thermal area ladies’ timings • 2:15 p.m. till 11:00 p.m., thermal area men’s timings Prices: • QR 580, 60-minute Meditation Massage • QR 580, 60-minute Customized Facial Contact Info: Call 4423-3441/3444 or visit www.hilton.com/doha

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QH SENSATIONS

Chicago...

It’s Time To Taste It! By Lynsey Riach

Two things are guaranteed on a visit to this epic city – you’ll understand why it’s called ‘The Windy City’ and you’ll definitely find yourself belting out “and all that jazzzzz”. But Chicago is also home to a newfound foodie haven that’s easily explored.

f, like me, you remember the television series ER where the L –train thundered past George Clooney in his scrubs outside the hospital then yes, that’s Chicago (although I can’t guarantee celebrity sightings). But this city which is the 3rd largest in the United States has more to it than a grimy, well-connected train system. Chicago is a city of culture – where art meets sport and the architecture is so impressive you’ll get a sore neck craning up at all those marvels. Oh and wait ‘til I get to the food…

The Magnificent Mile; that’s what they call it (but it’s Michigan Avenue in your guidebook) and I can see why, as recognized retailers line this well-kept street that is arguably the centre of town. Home to The Chicago Tribune, turquoise water flows beneath you as you cross bridges that intertwine and link avenues seamlessly together. Staying on Michigan Avenue at the upbeat Hard Rock Hotel, we could see the super-shiny silver ‘Bean’ from our bedroom. Its correct name is ‘Cloud Gate’ which is creative yet cute since, thanks to its mirrored reflection, you can wave at yourself, everyone else and watch clouds graze past on a clear blue-sky day. Set in Millennium Park, Chicago loves the outdoors and offers visitors plenty of breathing space away from the drama of Chicago Fire and Chicago P.D (new TV shows available in Qatar on OSN). After you’ve enjoyed some park life, fuel up for the day ahead on the best pancakes in town located across the street at Wildberry –and don’t forget the maple syrup!

Chicago's iconic 'Cloud Gate' sculpture – better known as the 'Bean'.

The boardwalk at Navy Pier

If you love to sight-see by foot then this is your town (but you can also tour it by boat or bus). Located

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Wrigley Field, home of the Chicago Cubs

An aerial view of Millennium Park

in the financial district just a few blocks from Millennium Park is Willis Tower, home to Sky Deck. If heights are your thing then you’ll like this – hover on ‘The Ledge’, an encased glass box that hangs 103 floors over the Chicago concrete. Close your eyes maybe? Meandering back down through Miracle Mile, the Nike superstore is a must for basketball fans – after all, this is where Michael Jordan sent the Chicago Bulls into overdrive.

No trip to The Windy City is complete without a trip to Garrett Popcorn

A Chicago classic – deepdish pizza from Giordano's

Gorge yourself on chocolate at Hershey’s World before meandering over to Lake Michigan where Navy Pier is set on an old-fashioned boardwalk that’s home to amusement rides and ferris wheels. Grab some cotton candy and feel like a kid all over again. Believe me when I say Chicago actually smells tempting. Just spot the lines of people outside Garrett Popcorn and you’ll have to stand along with them to find out what all the fuss is about –but be warned, this stuff is addictive. No wonder it’s been a Chicago favourite since 1949. Of course this town is also known for the deep-dish pizza. Voted best in town, Giordanos has several branches and each one is another line to wait and wonder in.

Once you’re at your table you’ll need to hold on a little longer as each deep-dish takes 45-minutes to be made, but boy is each slice worth it! Superbly filling, gooey goodness…they’re so popular, these guys even deliver nationwide! And of course no ball-game would be complete without onions piled high on a foot-long hotdog. Join flocks of fans at Wrigley Field to watch their home team, The Chicago Cubs make a few home-runs. Sit back and soak up the allAmerican atmosphere that will leave you with a real taste of what Chicago has to offer, but you’ll want more… Qatar Airways flies direct from Doha to Chicago daily. For more information on Chicago, visit www.choosechicago.com. Safe travels and happy holidays! 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. To learn more about her services visit www.andstretchyoga.com.

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QH SENSATIONS

Purely Panama By Francesca Cruz

Lush with tropical rainforests and considered ‘Monaco with bananas’, this is where a modern wonderland meets Latin American tradition. Welcome to Panama – how sweet it is!

anama has blossomed into the belle of the ball, having what no other place in the world has—the engineering marvel that is the Panama Canal. With the ability to join the Caribbean Sea and the Pacific Ocean, the Panama Canal enables shipping 120 routes that connect 1,700 ports in 160 countries. It tops the list of places to visit on the map, and should certainly appear as number one on your itinerary.

The tropical rainforest of Bocas Del Toro

Panama City's urban metropolis

Visit the Miraflores Locks to take in the breathtaking views and interactive exhibits—it’s just a 20-minute drive from the downtown Panama City district, which is also the spot where boats depart on mini-cruises down the canal, another option to experience this modern wonder. For places to stay, the Trump Ocean Club International in downtown Panama City is all about comfort and style, while the Hard Rock Panama Megapolis is a stellar choice for modern amenities. But to experience the essence of Panama—a combination of nature, pampering and luxury –opt for The Westin Playa Bonita; embraced by the rainforest it’s backdrop is the Atlantic Ocean. From the Atlantic side, it was time to venture to the Caribbean side of the island. Stopping at the Safaricks Zoologico, a rescue and rehabilitation centre for animals along the way. Nestled in the rainforest, it’s small, but worthwhile. Visitors are taken on a guided tour where you can pet the spider monkeys, or whiteheaded capuchins, take pictures with the selfieloving toucans, or visit the butterfly aviary. It’s a great stop en route to Portobelo.

The historic streets and colonial architecture of Casco Antigua

The seaside city of Portobelo (meaning ‘beautiful port’) hugs a horseshoe-shaped harbor and is a historic town in the Colon province. A hotbed for pirates, it was the epicentre of trading for the Spanish Empire in the 16th and 17th centuries, and is dotted with ruins of Spanish forts and the energy of swashbucklers past. This fishing town is experiencing a revival with a surge in local art and dance. A combination of African and native Guaymí Indian populations,

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Spy a spider monkey at the Safaricks Zoologico

Casco Viejo's Catedral Metropolitana

The colonial harbour town of Portobelo

A street-side raspados stand

every October 21 the port really comes to life in celebration of El Cristo Negro, a traditional festival dating back to the 1600's. From Portobelo it’s a short drive to Puerto Lindo for an eight-minute boat ride and day excursion to Isla Grande and its secluded beaches. Snorkel, sit under the palm trees, enjoy the majestic views of mountainous neighbouring islands, eat fresh catch sold by locals, disconnect from the world, or take a barrage of selfies in this utopia—here you’re able to do what your heart desires.

A brightlybilled toucan

It’s now time to return – an almost three-hour drive back to the Atlantic side. Crossing Panama from north to south, we arrive at Casco Antiguo (or Casco Viejo). Known for its Spanish colonial architecture, cobblestone-lined streets, boutique shops, and restaurants it's a UNESCO World Heritage site. The American Trade Hotel stands gallant across from Plaza Herrera, it’s the meeting place for the influential, creative types, and the culturallyinclined, but five years ago this historic district of the city was known as Ciudad de Dios. Riddled with gangs, it was in decay, dark, broken and dangerous to venture to.

Connecting continents, the Panama Canal is a global marvel of modern engineering

The hotel was renovated in 2013 by developers and entrepreneurs Ramón Arias and K.C. Hardin, (Arias’ grandfather had built the landmark in 1917). The area was gentrified. Safe and booming, tourists and locals can now enjoy live jazz in the hotel, take a romantic stroll at dusk, dine at Zaza, Ego y Narciso or La Casona for gourmet, yet affordable dinning – think mid-range price-point. There are also plenty of kitsch boutique stores with souvenirs, most selling the famed Panama hats. Sold by vendors on the street and so typical of Panama are raspados (fruit-flavoured shaved ice) dripping in sweet condensed milk, but I warn you—once you try one, you’ll return home dreaming of them. This is Panama… the rainforest, the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans, the Panama Canal and sweet treats sold on street corners—the modern world meets Latin American tradition. n

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QH SENSATIONS

The Dish On Qatar

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By Vicky Brighton

Moving to Qatar, but need guidance for a smooth transition? QH introduces you to Country Connections Qatar (CCQ), a local organization that goes the extra mile when it comes to helping new expats feel more at home.

aking the move half-way across the world can feel isolating at the worst of times and immensely rewarding at the best. When settling into a new country where you don’t speak the language and adjusting to its customs, it’s best to be as open-minded as possible – but you don’t have to do it alone. Whether you’ve come over with your family or have made the journey solo, it helps to have a safety net and a community to help guide you with the transition. For the last ten years newcomers to Qatar have been able to access the services of Country Connections Qatar, the country’s premier personal relocation service since 2005. Under Irish management, their consultants are primarily Western and they work with both corporate and individual clients across Doha and its surrounding communities. The way they work is completely personalized and unique to the needs of each person or company who seeks them out – and with a small team of consultants, many of whom have lived in multiple locations themselves, their understanding of the main requirements families may need when they first settle into Doha is extensive.

Why Doha? With its construction, engineering and oil and gas industries, Doha is fast becoming one of the most attractive locations for new expats to further their careers in the Middle East. A tax-free income, year-round sunshine and a good work-life balance for families with young children all lends itself to making Doha one of the most up-and-coming cities in the world – and with it, a population boom. Newcomers from across the globe can access the boutique services of CCQ to help them with their relocation needs and tailored for a range of budgets. Their localized knowledge of Qatar can lend a helping hand with some of the most common aspects of a big move – city orientations, home and school searches, support for spouses who have made the journey with their partners, and even exit support packages for those who are preparing to leave Qatar.

What Happens Next? So your plane just landed the night before, you’ve managed to navigate to your hotel in a taxi; you’re jet-lagged and trying not to feel overwhelmed. What do you do the next day? Well, if you’ve managed to contact CCQ, then you can do more than a few things! They can pick you up from your hotel for one of their tailored tours, offer an overview of housing availability in the Doha area to minimize your commute, or, just simply discuss the everyday problems of settling in. From figuring out the distance from your home, office or schools, helping with pet relocation, or the basic practicalities of buying furniture, hospital appointments, arranging childcare, or networking for stay-at-home parents, CCQ can help. Whatever your requirements, they will address, explain and provide individual solutions to you and your family and help with your concerns – everything for a hassle-free, smooth transition to your new life in Doha. n For more information on Country Connections Qatar call 3353-7452, email support_ccq@hotmail.com, or visit www.countryconnectionsqatar.com.

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IT HAPPENED

THE PEARL LOUNGE RE-LAUNCH PARTY Doha Marriott Sept 8, 2015

BRAZILIAN INDEPENDENCE DAY Marriott Marquis City Center Doha Sept 7, 2015

It was a taste of Rio in Doha at Ipanema!

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orf General Manager Andreas Wissd cake cuts the first piece of anniversary

1ST ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATIONS Marriott Marquis City Center Doha Sept 9, 2015

ls Celebrity Chef Sanjeev Kapoor unvei rant the new menu for Signature restau

SIGNATURE BY SANJEEV KAPOOR GRAND LAUNCH Meliรก Doha Sept 9, 2015 107 QH Oct 2015 - FINAL--.indd 107

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IT HAPPENED

(left) El Faro Executive Chef Raùl Cob tive and Marsa Malaz Kempinski's Execu k Chef Mattias Rooc

EL FARO CHEF’S CHOICE TASTING Marsa Malaz Kempinski August 31, 2015

ge, Minister of Culture, Art and Herita wari (centre) H.E. Dr. Hamad Bin Abdulaziz Al-Ku exhibit the of g enjoys an escorted viewin

NEW ANGLES, NEW PERSPECTIVES EXHIBITION Qatar Photographic Society, Katara Sept 1, 2015 108 QH Oct 2015 - FINAL--.indd 108

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PHONE DIRECTORY HOTELS Al Gassar Resort Banana Island Resort Doha by Anantara 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 Mövenpick Hotel Mövenpick Hotel West Bay Doha Oryx Rotana Radisson Blu Sharq Village & Spa Sheraton Doha The Four Seasons The Ritz-Carlton The St. Regis Doha The Torch Doha W Doha Hotel & Residences Wyndham Grand Regency Zubarah Boutique Hotel

4424-4881 4040-5050 4408-7777 4429-8888 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 4425-6666 4485-4444 4494-8888 4484-8000 4446-0000 4446-5600 4453-5000 4434-3333 4447-0000

HEALTH / BEAUTY

AHMED HASSAN BILAL GROUP

Amaoras RelaxationSpa 4408-4085 Angsana Spa 4434-3152 Bay View 26, Wellness Centre 4496-6410 Bio-Bil Health, Beauty & Spa Ladies 4493-4433 Men’s 4483-0989 Bliss 4453-5555 4483-4535 Bottega Verde Coiffeur Française 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 Four Seasons Spa 4494-8801 Frank Provost 4494-8844 4468-9945 Glow American Salon, Salwa Rd. 4411-7652 West Bay GoodLife Chemist City Center 4483-9100 The Pearl 4495-3876 4420-8660 Guerlain Alfardan Spa Habibs Hair and Beauty Salon 4413-0672 La Cigale - Ozone Spa 4428-8888 Medical Spa Villaggio 4451-7590 Patrice Salon 4485-4012 Ritz-Carlton Spa 4484-8173 4419-5517 Saray Spa 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 Saad St. 4431-4411 Chowking Al Khor 4411-8816/4411-8817 Chowking Mamoura 4486-6077 Chowking Holiday Villa 4411-5225/335 PUBLICATIONS ABODE/QH Magazines 4427-8416

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

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

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

HOSPITALS / EMERGENCY AMBULANCE, POLICE & FIRE DEPARTMENT

999

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

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

4439-3333 4439-2948 4466-6671

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

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

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

112 QH Oct 2015 - FINAL--.indd 112

9/23/15 1:46 PM